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Average Price: $499

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Crafted for the discerning guitarist, the ESP LTD EC-500 S melds classic design with modern performance enhancements. This solid body electric guitar is a robust choice for musicians who demand both reliability and versatility in their instruments. Built with precision, the EC-500 S features a mahogany body and a set neck construction, delivering warm tones and a sustain that lasts.

Equipped with a pair of active EMG 81/60 pickups, this guitar provides a powerful sound that cuts through the mix, perfect for genres ranging from metal to rock. The thin U-shaped neck and 24 extra-jumbo frets offer comfort and playability, allowing for fluid finger movement across the rosewood fingerboard. This guitar also features high-quality Grover tuners, ensuring your instrument stays in tune through the most intense performances.

Whether you're shredding on stage or composing in the studio, the ESP LTD EC-500 S is engineered to support your creative expression. It balances traditional craftsmanship with modern features, making it a reliable partner in your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body for enhanced resonance and sustain
  • Set neck construction for improved stability
  • Active EMG 81/60 pickups for powerful, cutting sound
  • Thin U-shaped neck with 24 extra-jumbo frets
  • Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Grover tuners for reliable tuning stability

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EC-500 S
Year 2006 - 2007
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Ebony
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"

FAQs

What kind of music is the ESP LTD EC-500 S best suited for?

The ESP LTD EC-500 S is well-suited for metal and hard rock genres due to its dual humbucker pickup configuration, which delivers powerful, high-gain tones ideal for heavy riffs and solos.

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

The ESP LTD EC-500 S features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing fast playability and comfort, which is ideal for players who prefer quick, technical playing styles.

How does the set-neck construction of the ESP LTD EC-500 S affect its performance?

The set-neck construction of the ESP LTD EC-500 S enhances sustain and resonance, making it a great choice for players who value long-lasting notes and a rich tonal character.

What are the tonal characteristics of the mahogany body on the ESP LTD EC-500 S?

The mahogany body of the ESP LTD EC-500 S offers a warm and full-bodied tone with excellent sustain, making it suitable for players who desire a rich, resonant sound.

Is the ESP LTD EC-500 S suitable for beginners?

While the ESP LTD EC-500 S is designed with features that appeal to more advanced players, its comfortable neck and versatile sound make it accessible for beginners who are serious about improving their skills.

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • Older EC-500 models are considered better quality than some newer EC-1000 models, especially those from the mid-2000s.

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  • One user who tested over 20 different EC models found an EC-1000 with full thickness and Duncan pickups to have exceptional tone and quality, comparable to a Les Paul at a fraction of the price.

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  • The EC-500 is likened to the EC-1000 but without the flashy abalone inlays, offering similar performance for a lower price.

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  • Korean-made EC-500 models are considered on par with Korean EC-1000 models, with differences often in hardware like Grover tuners instead of locking tuners.

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User experience

  • An owner with experience in both Jackson and LTD claims LTD guitars are consistently reliable, unlike the variable quality in Jackson models.

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  • One user, who owns multiple guitars, finds the EC-500's tone and playability comparable to American Stratocasters and Telecasters.

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  • An owner regretted selling their EC-500, describing the build quality as "insane" compared to other guitars they have owned.

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  • Owners appreciate the EC-500 for its value, reporting similar performance to the EC-1000 but at a significantly lower cost.

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Value and pricing

  • Discontinued status adds collectability, potentially raising its value compared to newer models.

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  • An owner purchased an EC-500 for $240 and regards it as exceptional value, outperforming guitars priced at $1,200.

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Features and functionality

  • An EC-1000 model is highlighted for having stainless steel frets, which some users may prefer over other fret materials for durability and playability.

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  • The EC-500 was primarily available in black and white, unlike the broader color options of the EC-1000 series.

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  • Some EC-500 models included unique features like the Earvana compensated nut, enhancing tuning accuracy.

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