Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $523
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "ESP LTD EC256". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The ESP LTD EC-256 is where classic design meets modern versatility. This electric guitar is perfect for musicians who crave that timeless single-cutaway shape paired with a contemporary edge. Crafted with a resonant mahogany body and a set-in mahogany neck, this guitar delivers the warmth and sustain that players love, making it suitable for a wide range of genres from rock to blues and beyond.
Equipped with dual ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers, the EC-256 offers a powerful and clear sound that's ideal for both rhythm and lead playing. The addition of a push-pull tone pot allows you to split the humbuckers into single-coils, adding even more tonal flexibility to your arsenal. Whether you're laying down chunky riffs or soaring solos, this feature ensures you have the right sound at your fingertips.
The rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience, complemented by a thin U neck profile that facilitates fast and effortless transitions across its 22 extra-jumbo frets. Stability and precise intonation are ensured by the TOM-style bridge and LTD locking tuners, making this guitar not just a joy to play, but also a reliable companion on stage.
With its blend of classic styling and modern functionality, the ESP LTD EC-256 is a value-packed instrument that doesn't compromise on quality or performance.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body with set-neck construction
- Dual ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers with push-pull coil splitting
- Rosewood fingerboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets
- Thin U neck profile for easy playability
- TOM-style bridge and LTD locking tuners
- 24.75" scale length
- Nickel hardware
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | LTD Eclipse EC-256 |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Finish | Satin |
| Neck Material | 3-piece Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Thin U |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 13.77" |
| 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
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What type of music is the ESP LTD EC-256 suited for?
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The ESP LTD EC-256 is versatile and well-suited for rock and metal genres, thanks to its dual humbucker pickups which provide a powerful and warm tone.
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What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-256?
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The ESP LTD EC-256 features a Thin U neck profile, offering a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for players who prefer a slimmer neck.
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Does the ESP LTD EC-256 support coil-splitting?
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Yes, the ESP LTD EC-256 includes a push/pull tone control that allows for coil-splitting, enabling single-coil tones for added versatility.
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Is the ESP LTD EC-256 suitable for beginners?
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The ESP LTD EC-256 is suitable for beginners and intermediate players due to its comfortable playability and versatile tonal options, making it a great choice for those starting out or looking to expand their sound.
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What is the scale length of the ESP LTD EC-256?
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The ESP LTD EC-256 has a scale length of 24.75 inches, which is typical for guitars inspired by classic single-cut designs, providing a familiar feel and tension.
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What materials are used in the construction of the ESP LTD EC-256?
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The ESP LTD EC-256 features a mahogany body and a 3-piece mahogany neck, contributing to its warm tone and solid build quality.
Videos
Taylor Danley
Play authentic ?? | Unboxing an LTD Eclipse EC-256 guitar
Play authentic ?? | Unboxing an LTD Eclipse EC-256 guitar
Taylor Danley
ESP GUITARS UK - OFFICIAL LTD EC-256 FM DEMONSTRATION
Jamie Hunt (Guitar)
ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Review and Demo
Fret Zealot
ESP Ltd ec256 vs Epiphone Les Paul vs Chapman ML2
Pherotone Studios
ESP LTD EC-256 Electric Guitar | REVIEW | Black Cherry Sunburst | EC-256FM
A MINOR ERROR
MY THOUGHTS ON THE ESP/LTD EC256 MODELS - UNBOXING & FIRST IMPRESSIONS PART 1
Ninecore Neil
ESP LTD EC-256 & TE-200 - Demo
ESP Guitars Australia
Review & Demo LTD EC-256 Guitar? Is it Versatile?
Larry Martins
Reviews
PROS
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Stunning Candy Apple Red Satin finish is eye-catching and elegant
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Slim, fast neck enhances playability and comfort for extended sessions
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Coil splitting feature offers versatile tonal options
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Solid tuning stability and intonation, even at lower tunings
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Excellent value for the price, comparable to higher-end models
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Distinct worn and distressed finish adds vintage appeal
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Jatoba fretboard is praised for its beauty and feel
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Great for both classic rock and metal genres
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Comfortable weight and balance make it a reliable gigging choice
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Strong build quality with reliable hardware and electronics
CONS
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Stock pickups lack range and clarity, especially for clean tones
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Glossy neck finish may not appeal to all players
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Some minor cosmetic blemishes noted, though not impacting performance
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD EC256.
User experience
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A six-month owner faced multiple technical problems, leading to regret over not selecting a higher-end alternative.
Source -
One owner noted the neck's stickiness out of the box, recommending sanding to achieve a satin finish for smoother playability.
Source -
Some owners feel the EC-256's tone is thinner compared to a traditional Les Paul.
Source
Value and pricing
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A used EC-256 priced at $300 is generally considered a fair deal, with negotiation potential down to $250.
Source
Comparisons
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An owner compared the EC-256 favorably to their Mexican Strat with Duncan pickups, citing superior clean and crunch tones.
Source -
PRS SE 245 is often regarded as a superior choice in terms of quality, albeit at a higher price point.
Source -
Compared to the Ibanez VBT700, the EC-256's 42mm nut width makes the neck feel smaller.
Source -
The EC-256 is lighter and slimmer compared to traditional Les Pauls, appealing to those who prefer a more comfortable playability.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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Tweaking the neck radius from 13.75” to 12” and switching to medium jumbo frets mimics a Les Paul feel.
Source -
Commonly recommended locking tuners include Gotoh and Grover keystone models for improved tuning stability.
Source -
Owners often replace stock LH150 pickups with EMG JHB/JHN for enhanced tone.
Source
Setup and maintenance
Build quality
Features and functionality
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The EC-256 comes with plastic nuts, which may not appeal to all players.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
996
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 ESP LTD EC256, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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