Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $839

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "ESP Ltd D-5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

Unlock a world of sonic possibilities with the ESP Ltd D-5, a 5-string electric bass designed for musicians who demand both versatility and power. Crafted with a mahogany body and a stunning poplar burl top, this bass delivers a rich, resonant tone that will command any stage. Its 7-piece maple/jatoba neck and roasted jatoba fretboard offer durability and a smooth playing experience, while the thin U neck profile ensures comfort during long jam sessions.

The ESP Ltd D-5 is equipped with ESP Designed SB-5B and SB-5N humbuckers that provide a dynamic range of sounds, from deep growls to bright, punchy tones. The ABQ-3 3-band electronics allow for precise tonal control with volume, balance, bass, mids, and treble adjustments, giving you the flexibility to tailor your sound to any musical style.

A 24 jumbo fret layout with a 400 mm radius provides ample space for expressive playing, while the LTD BB-605 bridge with strings through the body ensures exceptional sustain and stability. Topped off with black hardware and Grover machine heads, the D-5 is both a visual and auditory masterpiece. Whether you're grooving in the studio or tearing up the stage, this bass is your ticket to an unforgettable performance.

Key Features:

  • Body: Mahogany with poplar burl top
  • 7-piece maple/jatoba neck-through-body design
  • Fretboard: Roasted jatoba
  • Neck profile: Thin U
  • Fretboard radius: 400 mm
  • 24 Jumbo frets
  • Nut width: 45 mm
  • Scale: 864 mm
  • Pickups: ESP Designed SB-5B and SB-5N humbuckers
  • ABQ-3 3-band electronics
  • Controls: Volume, balance, bass, mids, treble
  • LTD BB-605 bridge with strings through body
  • Black hardware with Grover machine heads
  • Ex-factory stringing: D'Addario XL165 .045 - .125

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model D-5
Finish Black Natural Burst Satin
Year 2020 - 2025
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Brown
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Jatoba
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 5-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the ESP LTD D-5 suitable for?

The ESP LTD D-5, with its 5-string configuration and active preamp, is versatile and well-suited for genres requiring extended low-end range, such as rock, metal, and jazz fusion.

What is the neck profile like on the ESP LTD D-5?

The ESP LTD D-5 features a thin neck profile, making it comfortable and fast for players who prefer easy access to all 24 frets.

Does the ESP LTD D-5 have active or passive pickups?

The ESP LTD D-5 is equipped with passive pickups, combined with an active preamp for enhanced tonal shaping capabilities.

Is the ESP LTD D-5 a good choice for beginners?

While the ESP LTD D-5 offers advanced features like a 5-string setup and active preamp, its playability and comfortable neck make it accessible for dedicated beginners ready to explore a wider tonal range.

How does the Jatoba fretboard on the ESP LTD D-5 affect its playability?

The Jatoba fretboard on the ESP LTD D-5 provides a smooth playing surface with a warm tone, enhancing the bass's overall playability and sound quality.

Рокин Факин

Рокин Факин

Обзор на бас-гитару ESP LTD D5 (Индонезия)

Video thumbnail for Обзор на бас-гитару ESP LTD D5 (Индонезия) by Рокин Факин

Обзор на бас-гитару ESP LTD D5 (Индонезия)

Рокин Факин

Рокин Факин

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD D 5 Bass Review (and my tones!) by Jason Stallworth

ESP LTD D 5 Bass Review (and my tones!)

Jason Stallworth

Jason Stallworth

Video thumbnail for LTD by ESP D5 Bass by Good Guitars

LTD by ESP D5 Bass

Good Guitars

Good Guitars

Video thumbnail for LTD D-5  sick bass tone by ONSMOLK

LTD D-5 sick bass tone

ONSMOLK

ONSMOLK

Reviews

PROS

  • Vibrant resonance provides a satisfying playing experience

  • Attractive finish enhances visual appeal

  • Lighter weight compared to older models

CONS

  • Ground issue causing unwanted noise

  • May require additional investment for proper wiring adjustments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP Ltd D-5.

Setup and maintenance

  • After changing strings and adjusting the truss rod, fret buzz issues in standard tuning were resolved, improving playability significantly.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The active pickups and 3-band EQ allow versatile tone shifting, from hard rock growl to R&B P-bass wooliness.

    Source
  • The F series is identified by its distinctive body shape, setting it apart from the D and B series.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners report a recurring issue with chips in the headstock, which may indicate a vulnerability in the finish.

    Source
  • The D-5 features a Merbau body with a Mahogany/Maple neck and Rosewood fretboard, which contrasts with the B series typically having a Mahogany body.

    Source

User experience

  • For a five-string, it's noted for being well-balanced and playable, likely due to its 34” scale length.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Known for producing a thick, deep tone, it excels in delivering low-end presence but lacks treble brightness.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Considered a great value for a thru-neck bass, especially at used prices around $200.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The D-5 is generally seen as a more "deluxe" version compared to the B series, featuring nicer woods and electronics, and a neck-through design.

    Source
  • D-series models are noted to be more expensive than B-series models in the Australian market, with a price difference of approximately AU$400.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Greg Howe uses ESP Ltd D-5

Greg Howe

Guitarist

Richie Kotzen & Greg Howe

...
Verified via reverb.com
Color/Finish: Black

Greg Howe is confirmed to own an ESP Ltd D-5 5-String Bass, as verified by a listing on Reverb that explicitly states it was owned by him.

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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kerze_mann

kerze_mann

Gear IQ 136

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