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Average Price: $550

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$400

$1001+

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Description

In the world of electric guitars, the ESP LTD AX-400 stands out with its daring design and high-performance features that are sure to captivate any musician who craves both style and substance. This guitar's stylized vampire body design isn't just for show; it supports a set-thru neck construction that enhances playability and sustain. Outfitted with dual EMG-81 humbuckers, the AX-400 delivers a powerful and cutting tone, making it a formidable choice for guitarists who need to punch through even the densest mixes.

The guitar also features a tune-o-matic string-thru bridge, which contributes to its exceptional sustain and resonance. To ensure every note rings true, it includes an Earvana compensated nut, which maintains perfect intonation across all keys. A custom tribal graphic inlay on the fretboard adds a touch of unique flair, making this instrument not just a tool for performance but a statement piece.

Whether you're shredding on stage or recording in the studio, the ESP LTD AX-400 provides a harmonious blend of aesthetics, power, and precision that can cater to a variety of musical styles.

Key Features:

  • Stylized vampire body design
  • Set-thru neck construction
  • Dual EMG-81 humbuckers
  • Tune-o-matic string-thru bridge for increased sustain
  • Earvana compensated nut for accurate intonation
  • Custom tribal graphic inlay on the fretboard

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model AX-400
Year 2005 - 2007
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Black
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"

FAQs

What type of pickups does the ESP LTD AX-400 have?

The ESP LTD AX-400 is equipped with EMG 81 active pickups in both the bridge and neck positions, known for delivering high output and clarity, making them ideal for heavy music genres.

How does the neck profile of the ESP LTD AX-400 affect playability?

The ESP LTD AX-400 features a Thin U neck contour, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience, especially suitable for players who enjoy quick solos and intricate fretwork.

Is the ESP LTD AX-400 suitable for metal and hard rock genres?

Yes, the ESP LTD AX-400 is well-suited for metal and hard rock due to its mahogany body, EMG 81 active pickups, and 24 XJ frets, which together offer powerful tone and ease of playability.

What is the scale length of the ESP LTD AX-400, and how does it affect playability?

The ESP LTD AX-400 has a 25.5" scale length, which provides a balanced tension across the strings, making it suitable for both standard and drop tunings commonly used in rock and metal.

Does the ESP LTD AX-400 have a set-neck construction, and what are its benefits?

Yes, the ESP LTD AX-400 features a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and provides a smoother transition between the neck and body, contributing to overall playability and tone quality.

What type of bridge does the ESP LTD AX-400 use, and how does it affect tuning stability?

The ESP LTD AX-400 uses a TOM bridge with a string-through body design, offering excellent tuning stability and sustain, ideal for aggressive playing styles.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD AX-400.

Features and functionality

  • The ESP LTD AX-400 comes equipped with EMG pickups, which are a significant upgrade over the stock pickups in lower-tier models like the AX50.

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Comparisons

  • The AX-400's design offers a sleeker alternative to the BC Rich Warlock, catering to those seeking an "extreme" shape without the common Jackson aesthetic.

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  • The AX-400 is noted as a significant improvement over the AX-50, which some owners found unsatisfactory.

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User experience

  • Owners appreciate the set-thru neck and unique inlay design, noting these as enjoyable, if non-essential, enhancements to the guitar's overall feel.

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  • Players have reported difficulties playing the AX-400 while seated, suggesting the need for specific leg positioning for comfort.

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  • It's been observed that players often choose the neck pickup for leads and cleans, similar to techniques used by guitarists like Jeff Loomis and Brendon Small.

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Use cases and applications

  • The AX-400 is favored by players looking for a visually distinct guitar without sacrificing comfort or playability, especially when seated.

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  • Owners frequently use the AX-400 for metal genres, with one highlighting its versatility by combining parts of "Hand of Blood" by Bullet for My Valentine.

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  • The guitar is favored by players who switch between metal subgenres, such as metalcore and Viking metal, highlighting its adaptability to different tonal needs.

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Critic Reviews

LTD AX-400 Review: It seems to be at the moment the best electric guitar... | ESP | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The ESP LTD AX-400 strikes a chord for rock and metal enthusiasts, offering a powerful sound with its EMG 81 pickups and mahogany build. Praised for its reliability and durability, this guitar is ready to withstand the rigors of heavy play, though it does show minor wear on the bridge finish over time. While its setup might not be perfect out of the box, with slight buzzing noted on some strings, the overall quality and features, including a robust Tune-O-Matic bridge and Grover tuners, make it a worthwhile investment. Despite these minor issues, the AX-400 delivers where it counts, making it a superb choice for those needing a solid, versatile instrument for hard-hitting genres.

positive

LTD AX-400 Review: And Thrash Metal, and other extreme sub-genres of Metal, and I... | ESP | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

A beast for metal enthusiasts, the ESP LTD AX-400 roars with its EMG 81 active pickups, offering killer tones for death and thrash metal. Built for maximum gain, it's a rock-solid performer with superb reliability and durability. Its striking tribal inlays and set-thru neck make it as much a visual standout as an auditory one. Despite its nearly perfect score, the unique body shape might make finding a matching hardshell case a challenge. Still, for those who live and breathe heavy riffs, it's an irreplaceable metal monster.

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