Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
3.5 (3)
$999.00
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$999.00 New
$847.80 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
$999.00 New
$785.00 Used
Thomann
5.0 (11)
$925.00

Average Price: $951

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "ESP LTD AP-4". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your dark side with the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal, a bass guitar that harmonizes stealth aesthetics with uncompromising sound quality. This electric bass guitar is designed for musicians who crave the perfect blend of classic style and modern edge. Its all-black hardware and Black Satin finish give it a distinct, menacing presence that commands attention on any stage. Crafted with an alder body and a bolt-on maple neck, the AP-4 Black Metal promises durability and comfort for those long sessions or live performances.

The AP-4 Black Metal is fitted with pro-level components, ensuring that it doesn’t just look the part but delivers in performance. The EMG 35CS pickup is engineered to provide a powerful, punchy tone with crisp clarity that cuts through any mix, making it ideal for both studio recording and live gigs. Paired with Grover tuners and a Babicz FCH-4 bridge, this bass guarantees precise tuning stability and exceptional sustain. Whether you’re a seasoned bassist or just starting out, the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal is a reliable and stylish companion that won’t let you down.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with bolt-on maple neck
  • Black Satin finish with black hardware
  • EMG 35CS pickup for powerful tone
  • Grover tuners for reliable tuning stability
  • Babicz FCH-4 bridge for enhanced sustain
  • Black LTD logo on the headstock

Product specs

Available since May 2019
Colour Black
Soundboard Alder
Neck Maple
Fretboard Ebony
Frets 21
Scale Longscale
Pickup System H
Elektronic Active
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal bass?

The ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for bassists who prefer a slimmer neck for quick movement across the fretboard.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickup on the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal?

The ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal is equipped with an active humbucker pickup, delivering a powerful and punchy tone with excellent clarity, suitable for aggressive playing styles and genres like metal and rock.

Is the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal suitable for beginners?

While the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal offers professional features and high-quality construction, its straightforward design and comfortable playability make it accessible for beginners who are serious about developing their skills.

How does the ebony fretboard affect the sound of the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal?

The ebony fretboard on the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal contributes to a bright and articulate tone, enhancing note clarity and providing a smooth playing surface for fast and precise finger movements.

Does the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal bass come with a case or gigbag?

The ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal does not include a case or gigbag, so you may want to consider purchasing one separately to protect your instrument during transport.

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD AP-4 Bass Demo by Nikki Stevens

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: LTD AP-4 Bass Demo by Nikki Stevens by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD AP-4 Bass Demo by Nikki Stevens

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for LTD AP-4 (Pelham Blue) - Phil Uhlik Music Demo by Uhlik Music

LTD AP-4 (Pelham Blue) - Phil Uhlik Music Demo

Uhlik Music

Uhlik Music

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD AP-4 CAR - Sound Demo (no talking) by Bass Bonedo

ESP LTD AP-4 CAR - Sound Demo (no talking)

Bass Bonedo

Bass Bonedo

Video thumbnail for Unboxing the ESP LTD AP-4 Bass Guitar | Heid Music by Heid Music Co.

Unboxing the ESP LTD AP-4 Bass Guitar | Heid Music

Heid Music Co.

Heid Music Co.

Reviews

PROS

  • Ultra smooth neck with silky matte finish for enhanced playability

  • Reversed headstock is a unique and appealing design feature

  • Single volume knob simplifies controls, great for beginners

  • Slim neck design aids playability for those with smaller hands

  • Matte black finish is visually striking and stage-ready

  • EMG pickup delivers powerful, resonant sound ideal for metal

  • Excellent build quality expected from ESP

  • Well-balanced, not prone to being top-heavy

  • Ergonomic design makes it easy and comfortable to play

CONS

  • Heavier than expected, may not suit all players

  • Initial setup may require adjustments, such as neck curvature and tuning

  • Limited control options; lacks tone knob for versatility

  • Not the most versatile bass, best suited for metal genres

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD AP-4.

Features and functionality

  • The ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal features EMG pickups, known for their warm, round tone, which some users find better suited for genres like dubstep rather than metal.

    Source
  • The EMG 35CS pickup in the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal is noted for its low-impedance signal, providing a cleaner, interference-free output ideal for long cable runs.

    Source
  • Active pickups in this model have a preamp within the pickup itself, ensuring a consistent, high-output signal without requiring an onboard EQ.

    Source
  • The ESP LTD AP-4's active electronics configuration is highlighted for its immunity to signal loss and degradation, especially beneficial when using long cables or multiple pedals.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The P-Bass is often praised for its low mid rumble and clarity, making it more defined in the mix compared to the Ibanez SR series, which can blur with heavy guitars.

    Source
  • EMG pickups in this bass are contrasted with Fishman and Bartolini designs, with EMGs offering a quieter, more defined signal through differential amplification.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users consider replacing stock pickups with Seymour Duncan SPB-3 for enhanced definition and bite, especially desirable for aggressive metal tones.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal is considered for death and black metal, with a focus on adding thump and definition to complement heavy guitars.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being priced around 650€ second hand, some users suggest investing in a quality amp sim like Darkglass to achieve desired tones without overspending on the bass itself.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tom Angelripper uses ESP LTD AP-4

Tom Angelripper

Singer, Bassist

Sodom

...
Verified via YouTube

Tom Angelripper of Sodom uses the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal bass, as seen in the official music video for "Friendly Fire" by Steamhammer / SPV. I confirmed this after attending two Sodom concerts in 2024, where I noticed Angelripper’s new bass. After speaking with the band’s techs, who mentioned it was an LTD model, and conducting further research, I identified it as the ESP LTD AP-4 Black Metal. I even had the chance to see and touch the bass during the second show.

See how Gareth Murdock uses ESP LTD AP-4

Gareth Murdock

Bassist

Alestorm

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can see Gareth Murdock using his black ESP LTD AP-4.

See how Aaran Mckenzie uses ESP LTD AP-4

Aaran Mckenzie

Bassist

While She Sleeps

...
Verified via Photo

He plays here on stage his LTD AP-4 loaded with stock EMG active PJ set and with Babicz bridge .

See how Nikki Stevens uses ESP LTD AP-4

Nikki Stevens

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

As a performer and educator, Nikki Stevens is a highly-respected multi-instrumental musician with years of experience both on stage and giving music lessons at all levels. In this video, she tries out the LTD AP-4 bass, immediately recognizing the advantage of its excellent build quality and its high-end components like EMG P (neck) and EMG LJ (bridge) active pickups, Grover tuners, and Babicz bridge, all of which represent a big step up from typical less-advanced basses. More info: https://www.espguitars.com/products?categories=ap-series-basses-2

See how Chris Linkovich uses ESP LTD AP-4

Chris Linkovich

Bassist

Terror

...
Verified via Instagram

repost pictures from esp instagram, you can see Chris with his ltd ap4

Album Usage

The ESP LTD AP-4 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Community setups

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camix

camix

Gear IQ 154

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