Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (2)
$599.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (1)
$649.00
Amazon
5.0 (3)
$599.00
Reverb
$499.00 New
$509.00 Used
Thomann
4.8 (5)
$622.00 $619.00 $3.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£544.00

Average Price: $597

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "ESP LTD EC-256 QM". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The ESP LTD EC-256 QM is a powerhouse wrapped in a sleek, classic design, perfect for guitarists seeking versatility without breaking the bank. This electric guitar boasts a single-cutaway mahogany body topped with a stunning quilt maple veneer, offering both visual appeal and sonic depth. The set-in 3-piece mahogany neck ensures a robust connection to the body, delivering sustain and resonance that's hard to match.

Equipped with the dynamic ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers, the EC-256 QM promises a rich palette of tones, from crisp cleans to roaring leads. With the push-pull function on the tone control, you can effortlessly switch to single-coil tones, expanding your sonic possibilities even further. The roasted jatoba fingerboard, adorned with ESP flag inlays and 22 extra-jumbo frets, offers a smooth playing experience, complemented by the thin U neck profile for fast, comfortable playability.

Whether you're gigging or jamming at home, the TOM bridge and tailpiece provide reliable tuning stability and precise intonation. The EC-256 QM is not just a guitar; it's an invitation to explore new musical horizons with style and confidence.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body with quilted maple top
  • 3-piece mahogany set neck for enhanced sustain
  • Roasted jatoba fingerboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets
  • ESP LH-150 humbuckers with push-pull coil-splitting
  • TOM bridge and tailpiece for stable tuning
  • Thin U neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Sleek single-cutaway design

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape LTD Eclipse EC-256
Body Material Mahogany
Top Material Quilted Maple
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material 3-piece Mahogany
Neck Shape Thin U
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 13.77"
Fingerboard Material Rosewood
Fingerboard Inlay Banner
Number of Frets 22, Extra-Jumbo
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.653"
Nut Material Molded
Bridge/Tailpiece TOM & Tailpiece
Tuners LTD
Neck Pickup ESP LH-150N Humbucker
Bridge Pickup ESP LH-150B Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x tone (push/pull)
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings D'Addario XL110, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the ESP LTD EC-256 QM best suited for?

The ESP LTD EC-256 QM is well-suited for rock and metal genres due to its powerful humbucker pickups and mahogany body, which deliver aggressive and rich tones.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-256 QM?

The ESP LTD EC-256 QM features a Thin U neck profile, providing a comfortable grip and easy playability, especially for fast playing styles.

Does the ESP LTD EC-256 QM support coil splitting?

Yes, the ESP LTD EC-256 QM comes with a push-pull tone control for coil splitting, allowing you to access single-coil tones for added versatility.

How does the ESP LTD EC-256 QM compare to higher-end ESP models?

The ESP LTD EC-256 QM offers quality construction and features at a more affordable price point, using slightly less expensive materials and hardware compared to higher-end ESP models.

Is the ESP LTD EC-256 QM suitable for beginners?

Yes, the ESP LTD EC-256 QM is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and versatile tone options, making it a great choice for players starting out in various music genres.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

The Best Looking, Affordable, Singlecut Guitars Around?! - 2024 LTD EC-256 Eclipse Models

Video thumbnail for The Best Looking, Affordable, Singlecut Guitars Around?! - 2024 LTD EC-256 Eclipse Models by PMTVUK

The Best Looking, Affordable, Singlecut Guitars Around?! - 2024 LTD EC-256 Eclipse Models

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-256QM SEE THRU BLACK CHERRY SUNBURST and EC-256 VINTAGE GOLD SATIN MARCH 2024 by Brendan Breakdown

ESP LTD EC-256QM SEE THRU BLACK CHERRY SUNBURST and EC-256 VINTAGE GOLD SATIN MARCH 2024

Brendan Breakdown

Brendan Breakdown

Reviews

PROS

  • Gorgeous Black Cherry flame finish enhances visual appeal

  • Outstanding sustain for extended notes and solos

  • Lightweight design for comfortable playability

  • Excellent stock pickups; bright and articulate sound

  • Holds tuning exceptionally well

  • Comfortable thinner body and belly carve fit snugly

  • Great value for money in its price range

  • Suitable for beginners and seasoned players alike

CONS

  • Fretwork issues may require additional adjustments

  • Potential buzzing at low action without extra setup

  • Treble loss at low volume due to modern wiring

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD EC-256 QM.

Comparisons

  • The EC-401 is often compared to higher-end models like the EC-1000 due to its superior feel and quality.

    Source
  • The EC-256 is compared to a "Salvation Army LP," being lighter and thinner sounding, lacking separate volume and tone controls for each pickup.

    Source
  • Compared to Ibanez, the EC-256 offers less suitable neck access for shredding, as Ibanez's flat, tall fingerboard radius is preferred for fast playing.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The EC-401 comes with branded pickups and Grover tuners, which contribute to its higher quality and playability.

    Source
  • The neck has a thin U shape, which is not as thin as an Ibanez but still thinner than a typical Les Paul, affecting playability for those preferring thicker necks.

    Source
  • The EC-256 has a 22-fret neck, which some owners find limiting for shredding due to the difficulty accessing upper frets.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the EC-401 requires less maintenance upon initial purchase compared to the EC-256.

    Source
  • One owner transitioned from an Epiphone LP to the EC-256, preferring its lighter weight and more fitting shape and size.

    Source
  • Some players find the EC-256 super light with good tuning stability and intonation, making it a solid project guitar.

    Source

Build quality

  • The EC-256 comes with a plastic nut, which may be a downgrade for those seeking higher-end materials.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest sanding the neck and upgrading pickups, tuners, and nut for improved playability and sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For those focusing on metal, the EC-256 fulfills genre needs without active pickups, offering versatility across other musical styles.

    Source

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