Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $375

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

The ESP LTD B-55 is a steadfast companion for bassists seeking powerful tone and comfortable playability without unnecessary embellishments. This 5-string electric bass guitar is designed to deliver a versatile range of sounds, making it a great choice for musicians across genres. The combination of a split-coil and single-coil ESP pickups ensures you have the tonal flexibility to dive into deep, growling lows or bright, punchy highs with ease. Crafted with an agathis body, the B-55 balances warmth and resonance, while the maple neck provides a smooth, reliable playing experience.

The rosewood fretboard is adorned with extra-jumbo frets, allowing for an effortless glide across the strings, enhancing both speed and precision. This feature is particularly beneficial for complex bass lines and extended play sessions. With two volume controls and a single tone knob, you have straightforward, intuitive control over your sound, letting you focus on what matters most – the music.

Whether you’re laying down a groove in the studio or rocking out on stage, the ESP LTD B-55 offers the essential tools to elevate your performance. Its straightforward design and quality components make it a solid choice for both budding bassists and seasoned pros looking for reliability and rich sound.

Key Features:

  • 5-string configuration
  • Agathis body for balanced tone
  • Maple neck with rosewood fretboard
  • Extra-jumbo frets for easy playability
  • ESP split-coil and single-coil pickups
  • Two volume controls and one tone control

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model B-55
Finish Black, Metallic Silver, Titanium
Year 2005 - 2018
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Silver
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 5-String
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD B-55 bass guitar?

The ESP LTD B-55 features a maple neck with a comfortable and fast-playing profile, ideal for both beginners and experienced bassists who prefer a smooth feel for quick playability.

How does the pickup configuration affect the sound of the ESP LTD B-55?

The B-55 is equipped with a split-coil and single-coil ESP pickup configuration, which provides a versatile tonal range suitable for various music genres, offering both punchy lows and clear highs.

Is the ESP LTD B-55 bass suitable for metal music?

Yes, the ESP LTD B-55 is well-suited for metal music, thanks to its robust build and powerful pickups that deliver the aggressive tones often required in metal genres.

What kind of controls does the ESP LTD B-55 have?

The ESP LTD B-55 features volume, volume, and tone controls, allowing players to easily shape and adjust their sound to fit different musical styles and settings.

Does the ESP LTD B-55 bass guitar come with a case?

No, the ESP LTD B-55 does not come with a case; it is sold separately. It's recommended to purchase a compatible case to protect your instrument during transport and storage.

FrostByte

FrostByte

ESP/LTD B55 Specs (Bass)

Video thumbnail for ESP/LTD B55 Specs (Bass) by FrostByte

ESP/LTD B55 Specs (Bass)

FrostByte

FrostByte

Video thumbnail for Retrain Your Brain | LTD B55 5-String Bass | SKIFMUSIC by SKIFMUSIC

Retrain Your Brain | LTD B55 5-String Bass | SKIFMUSIC

SKIFMUSIC

SKIFMUSIC

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD B55 original P+J Pickups versus EMG P5 et J5 by picpouille

ESP LTD B55 original P+J Pickups versus EMG P5 et J5

picpouille

picpouille

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD B-55.

Features and functionality

  • The ESP LTD B55 has a reverse P/J pickup configuration, which is unique for a 5-string and contributes to its versatility.

    Source
  • The B-55 features a distinctive B-55 inlay at the 12th fret, confirming its model authenticity.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the B55 very comfortable and surprisingly light for its size, making it ideal for extended play sessions.

    Source
  • An owner experienced with altering string gauges and drop tuning noted the B55 as a robust and reliable instrument under varied conditions.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some players report neck dive issues when using a nylon strap, suggesting the need for a different strap material for better balance.

    Source
  • An owner suggests checking under the neck for more information, though advises against unnecessary removal unless needed.

    Source

Build quality

  • The fretboard is made of "engineered hardwood," which some owners compare favorably to traditional rosewood, though specifics about this material are not widely known.

    Source
  • The instrument's origin may be indicated under stickers or covers, typically labeled "Made in Indonesia" or with an "L" serial number for China.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • One user recommends learning setup techniques, implying this can significantly enhance playability, especially for beginners.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user reported purchasing a used B-55 for approximately $150, suggesting a reasonable market value for this model.

    Source

Critic Reviews

ESP LTD B-55 super-short gear review | GuitarStuff.net

guitarstuff.net

The ESP LTD B-55 bass delivers a solid performance, particularly shining in metal genres with its robust sound. Its fast neck offers comfort for extended play, though the finish and factory setup leave room for improvement. Open strings can overpower, and adjustments are necessary to optimize its potential. Despite these flaws, it offers good value for its price, making it a worthy contender for budget-conscious musicians.

LTD B-55 Review | ESP | Bass Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jim_socks

I really like it

It's easy to play, basic and straight to the point regarding electronics, especially for an active bass. I love tinkering around with the EQ and this bass's unique sound gives me the perfect opportunity to do so. I also personally think it looks cool too.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Derek Engemann uses ESP LTD B-55

Derek Engemann

Bassist

Cattle Decapitation

...
Verified via YouTube

The item can be seen 0:13 into this video

Genre 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 B-55, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

Community setups

Show yours
kerbzgabe

kerbzgabe

Gear IQ 189

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