Pricing and availability

Average Price: $636

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The ESP LTD EC-500 is a powerhouse in the world of solid body electric guitars, crafted for musicians who demand exceptional performance and versatility. Designed with both the professional and enthusiast in mind, this guitar offers a seamless blend of style and functionality. Its classic single-cutaway body shape provides easy access to higher frets, making it perfect for intricate solos and fast-paced riffs.

Equipped with EMG 81/60 active pickups, the EC-500 delivers a robust, clear, and cutting tone that excels in genres ranging from hard rock to heavy metal. The set-thru construction enhances sustain, allowing notes to resonate with clarity and power. The mahogany body and neck contribute to a warm, rich sound, while the premium rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience.

A TonePros bridge and tailpiece ensure stable tuning and intonation, allowing you to focus on your performance without the distraction of constant adjustments. Added details like the abalone inlays and sleek binding give the EC-500 a sophisticated aesthetic, making it not only a sonic powerhouse but a visual standout as well.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with a classic single-cutaway design
  • EMG 81/60 active pickups for a powerful, clear sound
  • Mahogany body and neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Set-thru construction for enhanced sustain
  • TonePros bridge and tailpiece for reliable tuning stability
  • Abalone inlays and binding for an elegant finish

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EC-500
Finish Black, Olympic White, See Thru Black Cherry
Year 2007 - 2008
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Red, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-500 like?

The ESP LTD EC-500 features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience suitable for various playing styles, especially for metal and rock genres.

What kind of pickups does the ESP LTD EC-500 have, and what tones can I expect?

The ESP LTD EC-500 is equipped with EMG active humbuckers, specifically designed to deliver powerful, high-output tones with excellent clarity and sustain, ideal for heavy metal and hard rock.

Is the ESP LTD EC-500 suitable for beginners?

While the ESP LTD EC-500 offers high-quality features appealing to advanced players, its user-friendly design and playability also make it accessible for motivated beginners interested in rock and metal music.

What is the scale length of the ESP LTD EC-500, and how does it affect playability?

The ESP LTD EC-500 has a 24.75" scale length, which provides a slightly shorter string tension, making it easier to play and bend strings, especially beneficial for fast solos and lead guitar work.

Does the ESP LTD EC-500 come in different finishes?

Yes, the ESP LTD EC-500 is available in Black, Olympic White, and See Thru Black Cherry finishes, offering aesthetic versatility to suit different visual preferences.

Jeroen Petri

Jeroen Petri

My new ESP LTD EC-500

Video thumbnail for My new ESP LTD EC-500 by Jeroen Petri

My new ESP LTD EC-500

Jeroen Petri

Jeroen Petri

Video thumbnail for Ltd EC-500 through a Positive Grid Spark amplifier. by riffguy

Ltd EC-500 through a Positive Grid Spark amplifier.

riffguy

riffguy

Video thumbnail for 2007 LTD EC-500 Riffage by Noeffnwaypal

2007 LTD EC-500 Riffage

Noeffnwaypal

Noeffnwaypal

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD EC-500.

Build quality

  • Owners note that the EC-500's construction from the mid-2000s is often seen as superior to newer EC-1000 models, highlighting its durability and craftsmanship.

    Source
  • The EC-500 typically features Grover tuners instead of locking tuners, which some users find sufficient for maintaining tuning stability.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The EC-500's discontinuation adds collectibility, with pricing suggestions ranging from $400 to $500, making anything less a substantial bargain for buyers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EC-500 is frequently compared favorably to higher-end models like the EC-1000 and even some vintage Gibsons in terms of playability and tone quality.

    Source
  • One owner tested over 20 EC models for 6 months and favored the EC-1000 with full thickness and Duncan pickups for its solid playability and thick low mids.

    Source
  • The EC-1000 with full thickness was compared favorably to seven Les Pauls in terms of quality, playability, and tone, at a fraction of the price.

    Source
  • The EC-500 is often seen as similar to the EC-1000 but without the flashy abalone inlays, appealing to those preferring a more understated look.

    Source

User experience

  • Users consistently describe the EC-500 as punching above its weight class, with some preferring its playability over newer, more expensive models.

    Source
  • A user deeply regretted selling their EC-500, citing its "insane quality" as unmatched by other guitars they've owned.

    Source
  • Owners report that the EC-500 was available in limited color options, primarily black and white, compared to the broader palette of the EC-1000 series.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Some EC-500 models include Earvana compensated nuts, offering enhanced intonation and tuning accuracy compared to standard nuts.

    Source

Critic Reviews

LTD EC-500 Review: Great guitar for the heavy stuff. Very comfortable to play with... | ESP | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The ESP LTD EC-500 is a hard-hitting guitar crafted for metal and hard rock enthusiasts, boasting impressive EMG pickups that deliver clarity even at high gain. With stellar action, fit, and finish, this instrument is designed for comfort and playability. However, potential buyers should be wary of the satin finish, which may show wear more easily than glossy alternatives. While it excels in performance, the lack of low-end growl could limit its versatility, especially with treble-heavy effects. Overall, it’s a solid choice for serious players, but those seeking a more rounded tonal palette might want to explore further.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Apey uses LTD EC-500

Apey

Singer, Guitarist

LAZARVS

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video by Hangszerbázis titled "Szett Szemle #7 // Lazarvs [ex-Apey & the Pea]," it is confirmed that Apey uses an ESP LTD EC-500 as his favorite guitar. This instrument has been heavily customized, with its pickups replaced by Seymour Duncan SH-13 and SH-2 models.

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 LTD EC-500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

Community setups

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dustincomorski

dustincomorski

Gear IQ 346

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