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Description

Discover the ESP LTD BB-4, a bass guitar that effortlessly merges striking design with formidable sound. Crafted for musicians who crave both style and substance, this electric bass brings a bold, edgy aesthetic to the stage, while its sonic capabilities ensure you stand out in any mix. Whether you're laying down the groove in a packed venue or recording in the studio, the BB-4's dynamic presence is undeniable.

The BB-4 features a robust five-piece maple/walnut neck with neck-through-body construction, providing exceptional sustain and resonance. This design not only enhances the bass's tonal depth but also contributes to a smooth, fast-playing experience, courtesy of its extra-thin "U" neck contour. With 21 extra-jumbo frets, the BB-4 promises a comfortable playability that suits any musical style.

At the heart of this bass are the Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound pickups, renowned for their deep, powerful low end and punchy mids. The P-style SPB-3 neck pickup ensures your sound remains clear and vibrant, while the bridge-position SJB-3 single-coil pickup offers hot output and strong attack. Together with the ESP-designed active 3-band EQ, you have complete control over your bass, mid, and treble frequencies, allowing you to craft your perfect sound effortlessly.

Key Features:

  • Five-piece maple/walnut neck with neck-through-body construction
  • Extra-thin "U" neck contour for fast playability
  • 21 extra-jumbo frets
  • Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound pickups for powerful tone
  • Active 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
  • Alder/swamp ash body for rich, resonant sound

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model BB-4
Year 2013 - 2014
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Ash
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, Natural
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of music is the ESP LTD BB-4 best suited for?

The ESP LTD BB-4, with its passive pickups and active preamp, offers a versatile sound suitable for rock, jazz, and funk, providing punchy lows and clear highs.

Is the ESP LTD BB-4 a good choice for beginners?

While the ESP LTD BB-4 offers professional features like a rosewood fretboard and active preamp, it may be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players due to its nuanced sound capabilities.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD BB-4 like?

The ESP LTD BB-4 features a comfortable maple neck with a smooth satin finish, providing easy playability and fast action suitable for various playing styles.

How does the pickup configuration affect the sound of the ESP LTD BB-4?

The split-coil pickup configuration of the ESP LTD BB-4 delivers a balanced tone with a rich midrange, making it ideal for a wide range of musical genres.

Can the ESP LTD BB-4 be used for live performances?

Yes, the ESP LTD BB-4's active preamp and robust construction make it a reliable choice for live performances, offering consistent sound quality and durability.

PlayersPlanetOz

PlayersPlanetOz

Players Planet Product Overviews - ESP/LTD BB4 Bass Guitar

Video thumbnail for Players Planet Product Overviews - ESP/LTD BB4 Bass Guitar by PlayersPlanetOz

Players Planet Product Overviews - ESP/LTD BB4 Bass Guitar

PlayersPlanetOz

PlayersPlanetOz

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • Owners praise the fretwork on LTD 6-string basses, noting that the fret ends are exceptionally smooth straight from the factory.

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  • The LTD B-100x series is reported to be about 2.2 lbs lighter than the B-20x series, which might appeal to players concerned about weight.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A slight truss-rod adjustment may be necessary after shipping, but generally, factory setups are well-executed.

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  • Some users noted that tightening the tuners and changing the preamp improved their B-206SM, with a Darkglass Tone Capsule being a recommended upgrade.

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Comparisons

  • Users find high-end LTD models comparable to top Fender instruments, challenging traditional views on budget line quality.

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  • The LTD B204 is considered comparable to the Yamaha TRBX 604, but preferences may vary based on personal feel and store availability for testing.

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  • Some suggest Yamaha's TRB or TRBX series as a preferable alternative to the LTD B206 for those seeking different tonal qualities or weight preferences.

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Features and functionality

  • The natural satin finish of models like the B-4E is highlighted for its striking appearance and detailed wood grain.

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  • The LTD F-4E has been noted for its combination of an aggressive body shape with a natural wood finish, though some users suggest upgrading the pickups for enhanced performance.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend installing EMG 35DCx and 35TWx pickups with an EMG BQS preamp in the B-204 for an amazing sound, highlighting the push/pull volume pot feature.

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User experience

  • Some users have experienced issues with the D-6 models, such as misaligned saddle screws and uneven truss rod tension affecting tuning stability.

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  • The LTD B206 model has been noted to weigh around 11 lbs, which may be on the heavier side for some players.

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Critic Reviews

ESP Introduces LTD BB-4 Bass – No Treble

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