Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
4.5 (42)
$1,099.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (88)
$1,099.00
Amazon
4.4 (120)
$1,099.00 New
$938.00 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (103)
$257.58 New
$599.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (397)
$1,099.00
zZounds
5.0 (67)
$1,099.00
Thomann
4.7 (173)
$1,148.00 $1,145.00 $3.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£1,064.00

Average Price: $937

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "LTD EC-1000". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* 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

Product Description

Step into a world of artistic expression with the ESP LTD EC Series EC-1000 Electric Guitar. This guitar is not just a visual spectacle, it's a powerhouse of tone and playability. Crafted with a stunning quilted maple top on a robust mahogany body, this guitar delivers a harmonically rich tone that is sure to inspire. The set mahogany neck lends itself to the guitar's robustness and ensures long sustain and excellent note definition.

The EC-1000 comes equipped with EMG-81/60 active pickups, offering a hot, punchy tone perfect for solos, heavy rhythm playing and intricate chords. The EMG-81 in the bridge position complements the warm, articulate voice of the EMG-60 in the neck position, providing a balanced, versatile and aggressive tone. With a quick coil tap, you can even access single-coil tones for added versatility.

To match its tone and playability, the EC-1000 features premium components like a TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece for accurate intonation and Grover tuners for tuning stability. The ebony fretboard feels sleek under your fingertips and has elegant abalone flag inlays as position markers. Whether you're shredding solos or playing chunky rhythm parts, the EC-1000 delivers professional performance, reliability and the freedom of limitless expression.

Key Features:

  • Quilted maple top and mahogany body for a robust, harmonically rich tone
  • Fast, smooth profile set mahogany neck for intricate playing
  • EMG-81/60 active pickups for aggressive tone and excellent note definition
  • Coil tap for single-coil tones
  • TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece for accurate intonation
  • Grover tuners for tuning stability
  • Sleek ebony fretboard with elegant abalone flag inlays
  • Premium components for rock-solid performance
  • Designed for versatile play, suitable for any style

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Eclipse
Body Material Mahogany
Body Finish Satin
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape Thin U
Neck Joint Neck-through
Radius 13.7"
Fingerboard Inlay Pearloid Flags
Number of Frets 24, Extra Jumbo, Stainless Steel
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.650"
Nut Material Molded
Bridge/Tailpiece TonePros Locking Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Stopbar Tailpiece
Tuners Locking
Neck Pickup EMG 60 Humbucker
Bridge Pickup EMG 81 Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings D'Addario, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What type of pickups does the ESP LTD EC-1000 feature?

The ESP LTD EC-1000 is equipped with EMG 60 and EMG 81 active humbucker pickups, known for delivering powerful and clear tones, especially suitable for heavy metal and hard rock genres.

Is the ESP LTD EC-1000 suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP LTD EC-1000 is designed with advanced players in mind, featuring a neck-through construction, high-quality hardware, and active pickups that provide excellent sustain and tonal versatility.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-1000?

The ESP LTD EC-1000 has a Thin U neck profile, offering a comfortable grip for fast playing and smooth transitions across the fretboard, ideal for lead and rhythm guitarists.

Does the ESP LTD EC-1000 come with a case or gig bag?

No, the ESP LTD EC-1000 does not come with a case or gig bag; these must be purchased separately.

How does the satin finish affect the playability of the ESP LTD EC-1000?

The satin finish on the ESP LTD EC-1000 provides a smooth feel that reduces friction, allowing for faster and more comfortable playing, particularly beneficial during long sessions or performances.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

ESP LTD EC 1000 Vintage Black with EMG's - Sam Bell @ PMT

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC 1000 Vintage Black with EMG's - Sam Bell @ PMT by PMTVUK

ESP LTD EC 1000 Vintage Black with EMG's - Sam Bell @ PMT

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for This Guitar Puts $2,000 Guitars To Shame! by Phillip McKnight

This Guitar Puts $2,000 Guitars To Shame!

Phillip McKnight

Phillip McKnight

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000T/CTM by Guitar World

ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000T/CTM

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune - Stay in tune no matter how hard you shred! - EPIC DEAL by Andertons Music Co

ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune - Stay in tune no matter how hard you shred! - EPIC DEAL

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for LTD Deluxe EC1000 VINTAGE BLACK - Guitar Demo by Artyom Reborn

LTD Deluxe EC1000 VINTAGE BLACK - Guitar Demo

Artyom Reborn

Artyom Reborn

Video thumbnail for Not just another pretty ESP LTD Snow White EC-1000 Deluxe Guitar Demo/Review by Songs of Hope at 432Hz

Not just another pretty ESP LTD Snow White EC-1000 Deluxe Guitar Demo/Review

Songs of Hope at 432Hz

Songs of Hope at 432Hz

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: LTD Deluxe EC-1000T Demo by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD Deluxe EC-1000T Demo

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000T Electric Guitar by N Stuff Music

ESP LTD EC-1000T Electric Guitar

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for Les Paul Prophecy vs ESP LTD EC 1000 - I can only keep one of them! by Levi Bulloch

Les Paul Prophecy vs ESP LTD EC 1000 - I can only keep one of them!

Levi Bulloch

Levi Bulloch

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: LTD EC-1000/EC-1007 EverTune Demo by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD EC-1000/EC-1007 EverTune Demo

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | ESP LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black Duncans by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | ESP LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black Duncans

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Violet Andromeda Demo by Eli Santana by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Violet Andromeda Demo by Eli Santana

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | ESP LTD EC-1000 | Vintage Black by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | ESP LTD EC-1000 | Vintage Black

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: LTD Deluxe EC-1000 See Thru Purple Sunburst Demo by Bobby Keller by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: LTD Deluxe EC-1000 See Thru Purple Sunburst Demo by Bobby Keller

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for MID-RANGE GIBSON THREAT? | ESP LTD EC1000 Guitar Review by Guitar Cinema

MID-RANGE GIBSON THREAT? | ESP LTD EC1000 Guitar Review

Guitar Cinema

Guitar Cinema

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 vs ESP LTD EC-1000 Duncan by MooreMusicGuitars

ESP LTD EC-1000 vs ESP LTD EC-1000 Duncan

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC 1000 Vintage Black - Guitarra elétrica ESP | Egitana.pt by Egitana - Instrumentos Musicais

ESP LTD EC 1000 Vintage Black - Guitarra elétrica ESP | Egitana.pt

Egitana - Instrumentos Musicais

Egitana - Instrumentos Musicais

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 - Product Demo by Rock Hard Music

ESP LTD EC-1000 - Product Demo

Rock Hard Music

Rock Hard Music

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 Guitar Vintage Black | Richtone Music by Cameron Cooper

ESP LTD EC-1000 Guitar Vintage Black | Richtone Music

Cameron Cooper

Cameron Cooper

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2024 - LTD EC-1000 Black | ESP Guitars by ESP Guitars USA

NAMM 2024 - LTD EC-1000 Black | ESP Guitars

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for First Look at ESP's LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Gold Andromeda Guitar! by Stephanie Bradley

First Look at ESP's LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Gold Andromeda Guitar!

Stephanie Bradley

Stephanie Bradley

Video thumbnail for A Look at the ESP LTD EC-1000 Amber Sunburst by JandW Music

A Look at the ESP LTD EC-1000 Amber Sunburst

JandW Music

JandW Music

Video thumbnail for ESP / LTD EC-1000 Violet Andromeda - First look at an inspiring guitar. by MooreMusicGuitars

ESP / LTD EC-1000 Violet Andromeda - First look at an inspiring guitar.

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe VB - High Gain Fun with EMG 81/60s! by MooreMusicGuitars

ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe VB - High Gain Fun with EMG 81/60s!

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 VB Vintage Black Overview by Sam Ash Music

ESP LTD EC-1000 VB Vintage Black Overview

Sam Ash Music

Sam Ash Music

Video thumbnail for Here's Why This ESP LTD EC-1000 In Vintage Black Is The Most Important Guitar I Own by DenDenBMX

Here's Why This ESP LTD EC-1000 In Vintage Black Is The Most Important Guitar I Own

DenDenBMX

DenDenBMX

Video thumbnail for New Guitar Day - ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe! by BrianS

New Guitar Day - ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe!

BrianS

BrianS

Video thumbnail for LTD EC-1000 Violet Andromeda by The Zombie Guitar Company

LTD EC-1000 Violet Andromeda

The Zombie Guitar Company

The Zombie Guitar Company

Video thumbnail for LTD EC-1000 Woodland Camo Satin Demo by Jack Fliegler | ESP Guitars by ESP Guitars USA

LTD EC-1000 Woodland Camo Satin Demo by Jack Fliegler | ESP Guitars

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for THIS COLOR IS INSANE!! LTD EC-1000 in GOLD ANDROMEDA DEMO by C. A. House Music

THIS COLOR IS INSANE!! LTD EC-1000 in GOLD ANDROMEDA DEMO

C. A. House Music

C. A. House Music

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 See Thru Black Cherry Quilted Maple Left by 6-String

ESP LTD EC-1000 See Thru Black Cherry Quilted Maple Left

6-String

6-String

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-1000 | Violet Andromeda by MooreMusicGuitars

ESP LTD EC-1000 | Violet Andromeda

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for Esp Ltd ec 1000 Snow White review by siborgday guitars by Si-borg Guitars

Esp Ltd ec 1000 Snow White review by siborgday guitars

Si-borg Guitars

Si-borg Guitars

Video thumbnail for Violet Andromeda ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe by GHOST MALONE

Violet Andromeda ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe

GHOST MALONE

GHOST MALONE

Reviews

PROS

  • Incredible finish that feels high-quality and resists smudges

  • EMG pickups offer aggressive and punchy tones, perfect for metal

  • Comfortable neck with fast playability and smooth transitions

  • Locking tuners that maintain tuning stability

  • Lightweight yet robust, making it easy to handle on stage

  • Versatile sound suitable for both clean and heavily distorted play

  • Excellent value, providing features comparable to higher-end models

  • Unique appearance with detailed decals and gold hardware

  • Easy access to upper frets thanks to the cutaway design

  • Ergonomic body design with well-contoured shape for comfort

CONS

  • Some users experience tuning issues despite locking tuners

  • Finish may wear off over time, especially with heavy use

  • Instances of fret imperfections and glue seepage

  • Can be heavier than other guitars, causing shoulder fatigue

  • Minor quality control issues like fret buzz and faulty switches

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD EC-1000.

Features and functionality

  • The EC-1000's Fishman Fluence Modern pickups offer a clearer sound compared to EMG 81/60, with the ability to split tones between neck and bridge.

    Source
  • The EC-1000 is noted for its lightweight design and carved heel joint, making it preferable for live performances over heavier LP-style guitars.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the guitar maintains tuning stability even after extensive use, showcasing durability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EC-1000, with its thin U neck and flatter fretboards, offers a different playability compared to Fender models, requiring an adjustment period.

    Source
  • Compared to the EC-401VB, the EC-1000 has a Tonepros locking bridge and ESP/LTD branded locking tuners, offering enhanced tuning stability.

    Source
  • Compared to Epiphone Les Pauls, the EC-1000 offers superior playability, especially with locking tuners enhancing tuning stability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's been highlighted that the guitar excels in metal and hard rock, though rolling back the volume can help achieve cleaner tones for versatility.

    Source
  • The EC-1000, especially models with Fishman pickups, is highly favored for modern metal and rock styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Used EC-1000s are frequently available in the $400-700 range, offering significant value compared to buying new.

    Source
  • A used EC-1000 at $700 is considered a fair price, as market values range from $600-900 depending on condition.

    Source

Build quality

  • Newer EC-1000 models feature a sculpted heel and stainless steel frets, enhancing both playability and durability.

    Source
  • Korean-made models are noted for better quality control and retain value better than Indonesian-made versions; check hardware and binding for any quality issues.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners mention the EC-1000's compatibility with Seymour Duncan pickups, such as the SH-1 '59, for those seeking a different tone profile.

    Source
  • Switching from EMG to Bare Knuckle pickups, such as Ragnarok and Cold Sweat, provides a less compressed, more expressive tone with lower output.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 14 Reviews and 85 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
emmet_hickey98

Everything I need in one

I've gone through many guitars to find the one that's right for me, and this is definitely it. The pickups are great, with a push pull for greater tonal flavours, and a well-countoured, ergonomic body that's a joy to play. Did I mention it also has locking tuners? You'll want for nothing

cope_till

A Korean made Les Paul that doesn't break the bank

I love the simplicity of 3 knobs and the neck is great / perfect width. I've got the Seymour Duncans in mine & it's so much more articulate than stock pick-ups w/out the fizziness that comes with recording high gain amps. I like it more than the PRS S22.

blendz_official

Great guitar

I wish it had stainless steel frets but great guitar overall! Especially for the price!

rikoflishas

good for any genre?

pranavan_sutheswaran

eye candy

I think the most amazing thing about this guitar are the looks, its just very beautiful. I'm usually not a big fan of single cuts because I can find them very uncomfortable compared to super-strats or other type of body shapes. However, this one is very comfortable and plays like a charm. The sound is very tight and aggressive thanks to the EMG pickups. It also stays in tune forever with the ESP locking tuners. Absolutely satisfied with my purchase.

paddywatermountain

Great looking and reliable guitar

I play this guitar in my Coverband. It's the only one I need for that. It's light and awesome to play. Tuning: D Sharp

distinctgrey

With 57/66

Replaced the default EMG 81/60 pickups with 57/66's. Great tone, insanely fast neck, surprisingly good sustain considering its thinness and weight.

dj_ttf

greatest guitar I have

The most amazing guitar I own. Love the preloaded EMGs and the Matte Black Finish. The gold hardware and the locking tuners are great on the guitar

E
euan

287

God like!

My favourite guitar out of the ones I own.

Pre-loaded with EMGs, this thing is a tone tank.

Advantages; Jumbo Frets, perfect cut-aways, easy to re-string.

rodrigo_bustos_danovis

yes, this guitar is perfect, but im trying different tone, cuz after i use a les paul epiphone standard with seymour duncan sh8 synyster gates set and blow my head...in a couple days buy set emg 81 60 again for this guitar...

misunmachine

Amazing beautiful and good sounding guitar.

This guitar is a beauty for both eyes and ears ;-)

corey_jason

LTD EC-1000VB

Kept in Drop C. Used on most The Conjuration songs.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Richard Zven Kruspe uses LTD EC-1000

Richard Zven Kruspe

Guitarist

Rammstein

...
Verified via Guitar Center

Richard Kruspe uses this guitar in the Emigrate's "Eat you alive" Music Video, but it is also used during Stripped with a flamethrower during the 2017 festivals tour.

See how Gary Holt uses LTD EC-1000

Gary Holt

Guitarist

Slayer

...
Verified via YouTube

According to this rig rundown, Holt used LTD's EC-1000 before his signature was ready, and he still uses to warm up before the shows.

See how Tony Perry uses LTD EC-1000

Tony Perry

Guitarist

Pierce the Veil

...
Verified via Photo

Tony Perry, guitarist for Pierce the Veil, previously used the ESP LTD EC-1000 in Silver Sunburst before transitioning to the ESP Viper model. This is evidenced by a user-uploaded photo on deviantART.

See how Frank Bello uses LTD EC-1000

Frank Bello

Bassist

Anthrax

...
Verified via YouTube

Here we can see Frank Bello using an EC-1000 VB guitar for the set of Attitudes & Altitude set at Metal Masters 2014

See how Michael Paget uses LTD EC-1000

Michael Paget

Guitarist

Bullet for My Valentine

...
Verified via YouTube

In the official video for "Tears Don't Fall" by Bullet For My Valentine, Michael Paget is seen playing an ESP LTD EC Series EC-1000 Electric Guitar.

See how Andy James uses LTD EC-1000

Andy James

Guitarist

Five Finger Death Punch

...
Verified via Photo

You can clearly see him playing this one in the photo.

See how Sean Long uses LTD EC-1000

Sean Long

Guitarist

While She Sleeps

...
Verified via YouTube

In 7:20 he plays the LTX eclipse which has "Deluxe" on the headstock so it is the EC-1000 model , black gloss finish with white binding... pair of the EMGs

See how Kevin Skaff uses LTD EC-1000

Kevin Skaff

Guitarist

A Day to Remember

...
Verified via Guitargeek

Kevin used a white ESP LTD EC-1000 has his secondary backup guitar in 2010.

See how Jinxx uses LTD EC-1000

Jinxx

Guitarist

Black Veil Brides

...
Verified via Myspace

The guitar in the picture appears to be an LTD EC series one. I could be mistaken, though.

See how Jake Luppen uses LTD EC-1000

Jake Luppen

Singer, Guitarist

Hippo Campus

...
Verified via YouTube

Jake can be seen using this guitar @ the 1:36 timestamp in his old band Whistle Kid. He's not seen using it now but from older videos you see him using it quite often.

See how Alex Wade uses LTD EC-1000

Alex Wade

Guitarist

Whitechapel

...
Verified via YouTube

See this guitar at 1:52

See how SeamlessR uses LTD EC-1000

SeamlessR

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Starting at 6:06, SeamlessR shows that his guitar rack his an ESP Ltd EC-100 (with the Evertune Bridge), a Shcecter Damien 7, a Shcecter Damien 6, the Industrial Radio MIDI Bass, and a fretless guitar.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use LTD EC-1000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

LTD EC-1000 Duncan
LTD EC-1000 Duncan Solid Body Electric Guitars
2
Epiphone Les Paul Standard
Epiphone Les Paul Standard Solid Body Electric Guitars
2
Fender Telecaster
Fender Telecaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
2
Boss DD-6 Digital Delay
Boss DD-6 Digital Delay Delay Effects Pedals
2
Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor
Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor Noise Gate Effects Pedals
2
Epiphone SG Special
Epiphone SG Special Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
ESP Guitars, LTD TE-200
ESP Guitars, LTD TE-200 Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

Community setups

Show yours
chopchop

chopchop

Gear IQ 227

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twistedf8t76

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wanderace

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Gear IQ 77

luke_white

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Gear IQ 125

luke_white

luke_white

Gear IQ 125

jay_cobb

jay_cobb

Gear IQ 172

jay_cobb

jay_cobb

Gear IQ 172

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Gear Guides

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    Gear IQ 287