Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $893
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "ESP LTD EX Black Metal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The ESP LTD EX Black Metal is a guitar that commands attention, both visually and sonically. This instrument is a part of the LTD Black Metal Series, renowned for its dark, all-black aesthetic and high-quality craftsmanship akin to the LTD Deluxe "1000 Series." Featuring an angular EX body, this guitar is a perfect match for players seeking a bold and aggressive look, complemented by a sleek black satin finish and matching hardware.
Crafted from a mahogany body and paired with a thin U-profile 3-piece mahogany neck, the EX Black Metal offers a fast playing experience, ideal for shredding and heavy riffs. The Macassar ebony fingerboard, devoid of inlays except for glow-in-the-dark side markers, provides a smooth surface for intricate fretwork. The set-thru construction ensures seamless neck access for those climbing up to the 22 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets.
At the heart of its tone is a single EMG 81 active humbucker, known for delivering crushing leads and aggressive rhythms with ease. A simple yet effective single volume control allows for quick tonal adjustments on the fly. The TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece guarantee rock-solid tuning stability, catering to the demands of down-tuned metal riffage.
Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the ESP LTD EX Black Metal is ready to unleash a wave of dark, powerful sound that will leave a lasting impression.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body with a maple set-in neck
- Ebony fingerboard, 22 stainless steel X-Jumbo frets
- EMG 81 active humbucker pickup with single volume control
- TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece
- Black satin finish and black hardware
- LTD locking machine heads
- Scale length: 629 mm; Nut width: 42 mm
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | LTD EX Black Metal |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Finish | Satin |
| Neck Material | 3-Piece Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Thin U |
| Neck Joint | Neck-through |
| Radius | 13.7" |
| Number of Frets | 22, Extra Jumbo |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.653" |
| Nut Material | Molded Plastic |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | TonePros Locking Tune-O-Matic Bridge |
| Tuners | LTD Locking |
| Bridge Pickup | EMG 81 Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x volume |
| Strings | D'Addario, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Sold Separately |
FAQs
-
What type of pickups are used in the ESP LTD EX Black Metal and how do they affect the sound?
-
The ESP LTD EX Black Metal features an EMG 81 humbucker pickup, known for its high output and clarity, making it ideal for metal and hard rock genres. This pickup provides aggressive tones with excellent sustain and clarity, perfect for heavy riffing and solos.
-
What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EX Black Metal and how does it influence playability?
-
The ESP LTD EX Black Metal has a Thin U neck profile, which offers a slim and comfortable grip, allowing for fast and easy playability. This makes it well-suited for players who favor speed and precision, especially in metal genres.
-
Is the ESP LTD EX Black Metal suitable for beginners or more advanced players?
-
The ESP LTD EX Black Metal is designed with features that cater to more advanced players, such as its neck-through construction and high-output pickup. However, its straightforward controls and comfortable neck profile make it accessible for dedicated beginners as well.
-
What kind of bridge does the ESP LTD EX Black Metal use and what are its benefits?
-
The ESP LTD EX Black Metal is equipped with a TonePros Locking Tune-O-Matic bridge, which provides enhanced tuning stability and sustain. This bridge design is favored for its reliability and ease of use, making it a great choice for players who perform live.
-
How many frets does the ESP LTD EX Black Metal have and what size are they?
-
The ESP LTD EX Black Metal features 22 extra jumbo frets, which offer a larger surface area for easier bending and faster playing. This fret size is ideal for metal and rock players who require precision and speed.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
The Best a Metaller Can Get? - Extreme ESP 2021 FRX & EX Guitars
Reviews
PROS
-
Designed specifically for high-gain metal, excels in delivering crushing riffs
-
Locking tuners and Tune-o-Matic bridge ensure stable tuning
-
EMG 81 humbucker offers dynamic range and power
-
Neck-through mahogany construction enhances sustain and resonance
-
Buttery smooth stainless frets and fast, comfortable neck
-
Explorer-style body caters to metal enthusiasts
-
Simple single volume knob for straightforward control
-
Well-built with top-notch quality control
-
Eye-catching satin black finish
CONS
-
Significant neck dive can be bothersome during play
-
Ebony fretboard is susceptible to humidity, causing hairline cracks
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD EX Black Metal.
Features and functionality
-
The EX Black Metal features glow-in-the-dark side markers, which can be helpful during low-light performances.
Source
Build quality
-
The Black Metal series now includes stainless steel frets, offering longer fret life and a smoother feel during bends.
Source
Comparisons
-
The EX Black Metal is designed for metal rhythm playing with a 24.75" scale, contrasting with other Black Metal models suited for lead playing due to features like a Floyd Rose bridge.
Source -
The EX-401 provides versatility with options for neck and bridge pickups, whereas the Black Metal is tailored for aggressive rhythm tones with a single EMG 81 bridge pickup.
Source -
The EX Black Metal is noted for having slightly less neck dive compared to other models like the FX-400.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
The EX Black Metal is particularly favored for its aesthetic appeal, with a reverse headstock and minimalist design that many owners find attractive.
Source
User experience
-
Owners report consistent tone from the EMG 81 pickup in both the EX Black Metal and EX-401, with negligible difference attributed to tonewoods or construction.
Source -
The guitar weighs approximately 7lbs, making it lighter than some similar models like the Charvel Joe Duplantier signature guitar.
Source -
Owners express eagerness to compare or upgrade to models like the Nergal HEX-200 or a 7-string baritone version for extended range capabilities.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ESP LTD EX Black Metal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore ESP Solid Body Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Solid Body Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
Ttundra1988Gear IQ 195
-