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Description

The ESP LTD B-1005SE is a 5-string electric bass that blends modern playability with a robust, versatile sound perfect for any bassist looking to expand their musical horizons. Crafted with a swamp ash body and a stunning bubinga top, this bass delivers both visual appeal and a resonant, full-bodied tone. The Nordstrand Big Splits pickups are at the heart of its sound, offering low-noise performance with a dynamic range that suits genres from rock to funk and beyond.

The 5-piece wenge and bubinga neck, coupled with a rosewood fingerboard, provides a smooth playing experience with an Extra Thin U profile that promotes fast, articulate playing. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Gotoh tuners and adjustable Hipshot Solo bridge ensure your tuning remains rock-solid and your intonation precise.

With a 3-band active EQ and dual toggle switches, the B-1005SE allows for a wide array of tonal shaping, enabling you to dial in the perfect sound for any musical style. From aggressive picked highs to deep, thumping lows, this bass covers it all with ease. The combination of its exotic woods and advanced electronics makes the ESP LTD B-1005SE an instrument that not only looks and sounds amazing but also feels right at home in the hands of any professional musician.

Key Features:

  • Swamp ash body with a solid bubinga top
  • Nordstrand Big Splits pickups for diverse soundscapes
  • 5-piece wenge/bubinga neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Extra Thin U neck profile for fast playability
  • 3-band active EQ with two toggles for versatile tone shaping
  • Gotoh tuners and adjustable Hipshot Solo bridge for enhanced stability

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model B-1005SE
Year 2016 - 2018
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Ash
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Natural, Tan
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Wenge
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 5-String
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / Split-Coil
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Top Material Bubinga

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the ESP LTD B-1005SE for rock or metal music?

The ESP LTD B-1005SE offers a versatile tone with its passive pickups and active preamp, providing a strong, punchy sound ideal for rock and metal genres. Its split-coil configuration delivers clear mids and lows, perfect for cutting through a mix.

Is the ESP LTD B-1005SE suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP LTD B-1005SE is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality construction and versatile sound. The 5-string configuration and 24 frets offer extended range and playability, making it ideal for complex bass lines.

What is the neck profile like on the ESP LTD B-1005SE?

The ESP LTD B-1005SE features a wenge neck with a smooth satin finish, providing a comfortable and fast-playing experience. Its design ensures easy access across all 24 frets, catering to both technical and expressive playing styles.

Does the ESP LTD B-1005SE work well for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the ESP LTD B-1005SE is excellent for slap bass techniques due to its responsive passive pickups and active preamp. The natural ash body and bubinga top contribute to a bright, articulate sound that enhances slap tones.

How does the ESP LTD B-1005SE handle different tunings?

The ESP LTD B-1005SE is versatile in handling various tunings thanks to its stable construction and 5-string configuration. The robust neck and quality hardware ensure tuning stability, making it a reliable choice for alternative tunings.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Review Demo - ESP LTD B-1005SE 5-String Bass

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - ESP LTD B-1005SE 5-String Bass by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - ESP LTD B-1005SE 5-String Bass

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: B-1005SE Multi-Scale Demo by Gabe Rosales by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: B-1005SE Multi-Scale Demo by Gabe Rosales

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD B-1005SE 5-String Bass | Quicklook by Sam Ash Direct

ESP LTD B-1005SE 5-String Bass | Quicklook

Sam Ash Direct

Sam Ash Direct

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: Kyle Konkiel (Vimic) on the LTD B-1005SE Multi-Scale Bass by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: Kyle Konkiel (Vimic) on the LTD B-1005SE Multi-Scale Bass

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD B1005SE Demo - American Musical Supply by American Musical Supply

ESP LTD B1005SE Demo - American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD B-1005SE.

Features and functionality

  • The ESP LTD B-1005SE comes with Nordstrand pickups, which are praised for clear midrange, making them ideal for metal with distortion or amp settings with bite.

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  • The purple heart wood on the back of the neck is highlighted for its aesthetic appeal and uniqueness.

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Comparisons

  • The ESP's 37" scale length is favored for low tunings over Ibanez's 35.5", offering a more substantial difference from standard bass scales.

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  • The ESP B-1005 is often compared to the Dingwall Combustion, seen as a budget-friendly alternative with similar scale length but different pickup configuration.

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  • The B-1005SE is often compared to an older Ibanez Ergodyne 5-string, with some preferring the ESP for its modern build and tonal qualities.

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Build quality

  • Some users report that the finish wears down quickly, showing noticeable wear where fingers and arms frequently contact the body.

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Use cases and applications

  • Owners highlight the bass's performance in various genres, noting it excels in heavy music but also delivers fantastic tones for lighter styles.

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  • The neck-thru-body design is praised for its durability and ability to withstand years of use, particularly appreciated by long-term owners.

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User experience

  • One player noted the extended length of the B string enhances playability and tonal depth, especially in lower tunings.

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  • Some users note the ESP B-1005 is heavy, but a dual strap setup can improve comfort during extended play sessions.

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  • Owners noted the tonal versatility, allowing for easy adaptation across different musical styles with the built-in EQ controls.

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Value and pricing

  • In the $1500 range, few alternatives match the ESP B-1005's 37" B string scale length, making it a unique option for bassists seeking extended range.

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Setup and maintenance

  • With a proper setup, the action on the B-1005SE can be made very low, enhancing playability for styles like prog metal and slap.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Some users swapped the stock pickups in other ESP LTD models for EMGs to achieve a more powerful sound, though this wasn't specifically noted for the B-1005SE.

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Critic Reviews

ESP LTD B-1005SE Multi-Scale Bass Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bloodywood uses ESP LTD B-1005SE

Bloodywood

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified

Roshan Roy of Bloodywood is confirmed to use the ESP LTD B-1005SE bass, as evidenced by its appearance in most of their music videos and a specific Instagram post showcasing his live performance.

Genre Usage

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

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