Pricing and availability

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The ESP LTD EC-330 is the perfect companion for guitarists who crave both style and substance without breaking the bank. This solid body electric guitar boasts a classic single-cutaway design, combining the rich tones of a mahogany body with the striking aesthetics of a flame maple top. The ESP-designed active humbucking pickups ensure that whether you're going for a clean melody or a gritty riff, the sound remains powerful and clear.

Crafted with a bolt-on mahogany neck and a rosewood fingerboard, the EC-330 offers a smooth, fast playing experience. The 24 extra-jumbo frets and the thin U neck contour make it a breeze to navigate across the fretboard, allowing for seamless transitions and energetic solos. With its TOM bridge and tailpiece, you can count on stable tuning and precise intonation, no matter how hard you rock.

Whether you're jamming in your basement or performing on stage, the ESP LTD EC-330 is a reliable partner that delivers the versatility and durability you need. It's a testament to ESP's commitment to quality and innovation, making it a stellar choice for both seasoned players and aspiring guitarists alike.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body with a striking flame maple top
  • Bolt-on mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • 24 extra-jumbo frets with a thin U neck contour
  • Dual ESP-designed active humbucking pickups
  • TOM bridge and tailpiece for stable tuning and intonation
  • ESP tuners and black hardware for a sleek, modern look

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EC-330
Year 2011 - 2013
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Blue, Purple, Silver, White
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What type of pickups does the ESP LTD EC-330 have, and how do they affect the sound?

The ESP LTD EC-330 is equipped with ESP ALH-200 active pickups, which offer a powerful and clear tone suitable for rock and metal genres. These pickups provide high output with excellent sustain and clarity.

Is the ESP LTD EC-330 suitable for beginners?

The ESP LTD EC-330, with its thin U neck contour and 24 XJ frets, offers comfortable playability that can be suitable for beginners. However, its active pickups and build quality also make it a great choice for more experienced players seeking a versatile rock guitar.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-330 like?

The ESP LTD EC-330 features a thin U neck contour, which provides a slim and comfortable grip, ideal for fast playing and easy access across the fretboard.

How does the ESP LTD EC-330 handle different music genres?

The ESP LTD EC-330's active pickups and mahogany body deliver a rich, powerful tone that excels in rock and metal genres. While it's versatile enough for other styles, its design caters primarily to heavier music.

What is the scale length of the ESP LTD EC-330, and how does it affect playability?

The ESP LTD EC-330 has a 24.75" scale length, which offers a slightly shorter reach between frets, making it easier for players with smaller hands and providing a warmer tone compared to longer scale guitars.

Rob Chapman

Rob Chapman

ESP Guitars LTD M-330R, EC-330 & H-330NT - Affordable Metal Tones

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars LTD M-330R,  EC-330 & H-330NT - Affordable Metal Tones by Rob Chapman

ESP Guitars LTD M-330R, EC-330 & H-330NT - Affordable Metal Tones

Rob Chapman

Rob Chapman

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-330 Black 2013 Model Electric Guitar Demo with Johnny Blade by 6-String

ESP LTD EC-330 Black 2013 Model Electric Guitar Demo with Johnny Blade

6-String

6-String

Video thumbnail for ЭЛЕКТРОГИТАРА LTD by ESP EC-330 by PopMusicRu

ЭЛЕКТРОГИТАРА LTD by ESP EC-330

PopMusicRu

PopMusicRu

Video thumbnail for Anthony Joseph - 30 Minutes (ESP LTD EC 330 Test) by Anthony Sanchez

Anthony Joseph - 30 Minutes (ESP LTD EC 330 Test)

Anthony Sanchez

Anthony Sanchez

Video thumbnail for LTD EC-330 Electric Guitar Review @ JB Hi-Fi by JB Hi-Fi Official

LTD EC-330 Electric Guitar Review @ JB Hi-Fi

JB Hi-Fi Official

JB Hi-Fi Official

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD EC-330.

Features and functionality

  • The EC-330 series features a bolt-on neck, which provides smooth bends and overall excellent action, enhancing playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's suggested by owners to consider swapping in EMG pickups to achieve a heavier, more chugging tone suitable for metal genres.

    Source
  • Swapping the stock pickups for Seymour Duncan JB-SH4 is recommended for those playing thrash, death, and metalcore, enhancing the guitar's tone for these styles.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that after some TLC, the EC-330 becomes a standout guitar, with many noting its quality surpasses other guitars in their collection.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the comfortable body shape and beveled heel of LTD guitars, contributing to a more ergonomic playing experience.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EC-330's neck is praised for its playability, although neck-thru models like the M-1000 provide better access to higher frets.

    Source
  • The EC-330's electronics are considered less desirable compared to models like the EC-1000 with DiMarzio pickups, which offer a superior sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Purchased as part of a $500 deal with an amp, the EC-330 is noted for being a bargain, especially in comparison to higher-end ESP models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A neck replacement using a Viper 10 neck fits perfectly if both have the same scale length, despite potential minor buzz issues.

    Source
  • Uneven frets on a replacement neck might require leveling; StewMac resources are recommended for guidance.

    Source
  • Introducing a shim between the neck and body can adjust neck angle, assisting in resolving buzz or playability issues.

    Source

Build quality

  • Original hardware issues were resolved using Viper model parts, indicating compatibility between some LTD models for hardware swaps.

    Source
  • Some owners report that the fret edges on the EC-330 can be sharp, affecting comfort during fast playing.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Active EMG pickups are noted for being overly hot with digital processors, requiring specific presets for optimal recording.

    Source

Critic Reviews

ESP LTD EC-330 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The ESP LTD EC-330 is a lightweight guitar with comfortable playability and extensive controls, but its metal tones fall short, leaving the pickups in question. While it delivers on cleaner sounds and offers a sleek design, the lack of finish options and underwhelming aggression in high-gain settings make it less appealing for metalheads. It's a decent choice for budget-conscious players seeking variety, but those craving a fiery metal edge might want to look elsewhere.

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More ESP Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides