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Description

The ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR is a true testament to craftsmanship and precision, offering musicians an electric guitar that blends aesthetic beauty with unrivaled performance. Crafted in Japan, this guitar stands out for its exceptional build quality and attention to detail, thanks to the experienced hands of ESP's renowned luthiers. Its sleek, solid body design features an alder body with a stunning flamed maple top that not only looks exquisite but also enhances tonal clarity.

Equipped with Seymour Duncan pickups, the Horizon-III FR ensures a versatile sound palette, from the powerful Custom-5 bridge pickup to the smooth Jazz neck pickup, catering to a wide array of musical styles. The neck-through construction, combined with a maple neck and ebony fingerboard, offers a seamless playing experience with enhanced sustain and smooth access to higher frets.

The guitar is also fitted with a Floyd Rose tremolo system, giving players the freedom to express themselves with dynamic pitch shifts and dive bombs without sacrificing tuning stability. Whether you are shredding solos or laying down complex rhythm sections, the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR delivers with precision and flair.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through body construction
  • Alder body with flamed maple top
  • Maple neck with ebony fingerboard
  • Seymour Duncan Custom-5 (bridge) and Jazz (neck) pickups
  • Floyd Rose tremolo system for stable pitch modulation
  • Made in Japan by ESP luthiers, ensuring top-tier craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model Elite Horizon-III FR
Year 2013
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Construction Neck-Through
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Flamed

FAQs

What type of neck construction does the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR have?

The ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR features a neck-through construction, which provides excellent sustain and stability, making it ideal for players seeking a seamless playing experience.

What pickups are included in the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR, and what tones do they offer?

This guitar is equipped with Seymour Duncan Custom-5 (bridge) and Jazz (neck) pickups, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for rock, metal, and jazz, with a focus on clarity and dynamic response.

How does the thin U neck contour of the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR affect playability?

The thin U neck contour provides a comfortable grip and allows for fast playing, making it ideal for guitarists who enjoy shredding or require quick access across the fretboard.

Is the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR is designed with advanced features like a locking tremolo bridge and high-quality pickups, making it well-suited for experienced players looking for a professional-grade instrument.

What is the scale length of the ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR, and how does it impact playability?

The guitar has a 25.5" scale length, which is standard for many electric guitars, offering balanced tension and clarity, especially for players who use alternate tunings or prefer longer necks for soloing.

PlayersPlanetOz

PlayersPlanetOz

Players Planet Product Overview - ESP/LTD Elite Horizon-III FR

Video thumbnail for Players Planet Product Overview - ESP/LTD Elite Horizon-III FR by PlayersPlanetOz

Players Planet Product Overview - ESP/LTD Elite Horizon-III FR

PlayersPlanetOz

PlayersPlanetOz

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD Elite Horizon III FR  & Yamaha THR10 II Wl  - Demo by Artyom Reborn

ESP LTD Elite Horizon III FR & Yamaha THR10 II Wl - Demo

Artyom Reborn

Artyom Reborn

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD Elite Horizon-III FR.

Build quality

  • The volume pot is positioned close to the bridge, which may be inconvenient during play.

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  • The lack of a forearm bevel can cause discomfort during extended playing sessions.

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Value and pricing

  • A mint condition 2013 model is a significant bargain at 775€, compared to the local new price of 1899€.

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Comparisons

  • LTD Elite models are identical to E-II, as the name was changed after one year.

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  • The Horizon III is considered flashier due to its longer horn, which some users find less visually appealing than the NT-II.

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  • The NT-II is noted for better resale potential compared to the Horizon III.

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  • Horizon III offers variety if you already own an Ibanez RG, adding a different style to your collection.

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Features and functionality

  • Active pickups can sound harsh, but proper EQ adjustments are recommended for achieving a great tone.

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User experience

  • Owners suggest trying out the body shape in-store to ensure comfort with either the classic NT-II or offset Horizon III design.

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