Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $858

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$400

$1001+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "ESP LTD EX-401". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your sound with the ESP LTD EX-401, a powerhouse designed for guitarists who crave both style and substance. This solid body electric guitar combines a bold aesthetic with performance-driven features, making it a staple for rock and metal musicians. Crafted with a mahogany body and a 3-piece maple neck, the EX-401 offers a robust and resonant sound that cuts through any mix. Its rosewood fretboard ensures smooth playability, perfect for intricate solos and power chords alike.

Equipped with active EMG 60 and 81 humbuckers, this guitar delivers high-output tones that are both crisp and commanding. Whether you're shredding on stage or laying down tracks in the studio, the EX-401's active electronics provide a dynamic range that adapts to your playing style. With a thin "U" neck profile, players can enjoy a comfortable grip and fast action, making it ideal for rapid riffs and solos. The Tune-O-Matic bridge and Grover machine heads ensure stability and precision in every performance.

With its sleek design and active EMG pickups, the ESP LTD EX-401 is more than just an instrument; it's a statement. Whether you're a seasoned musician or an aspiring rocker, this guitar is engineered to elevate your sound and inspire your creativity.

Key Features:

  • Body: Mahogany
  • 3-Piece neck: Maple
  • Fretboard: Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia)
  • Neck profile: Thin U
  • Scale: 629 mm
  • Nut width: 42 mm
  • Frets: 22 XJ
  • Pickups: Active EMG 60 humbucker (neck) & EMG 81 (bridge)
  • Controls: 1 Volume & 1 Tone
  • Toggle switch
  • Bridge & Tailpiece: Tune-O-Matic
  • Machine heads: Grover
  • Hardware: Black
  • Active electronics

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EX-401
Finish Black, Snow White
Year 2009 - 2025
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape X-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Pau Ferro, Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Through
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What kind of music is the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK best suited for?

The ESP LTD EX-401 BLK is ideal for heavy genres like metal and hard rock due to its powerful HH pickup configuration and mahogany body, which deliver a strong, aggressive tone.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK like?

The ESP LTD EX-401 BLK features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience, especially suited for shredding and fast lead work.

Does the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK have a set-through neck construction?

Yes, the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK features a set-through neck construction, which enhances sustain and provides easy access to higher frets.

What materials are used for the body and neck of the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK?

The body of the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK is made of mahogany, while the neck is constructed from maple, offering a balanced tone with warmth and clarity.

How many frets does the ESP LTD EX-401 BLK have, and what is the scale length?

The ESP LTD EX-401 BLK has 22 frets and a scale length of 24.75 inches, which is standard for many electric guitars, providing a familiar and comfortable playing feel.

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Esp/ltd ex 401

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Esp/ltd ex 401

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD EX-401.

Features and functionality

  • The EX-401 features passive EMG-HZ pickups, while the EX Black Metal uses active EMG 81, impacting tonal output for heavier music styles.

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  • The EX Black Metal's lack of fret markers and reverse headstock are design choices aimed at enhancing its metal-focused aesthetic and functionality.

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  • The EX Black Metal includes LTD locking tuners and a TonePros locking TOM bridge, enhancing tuning stability compared to the non-locking Grover tuners on the EX-401.

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Comparisons

  • The EX Black Metal's build is specialized for metal rhythm, with a single aggressive bridge pickup and 22 frets, unlike other Black Metal models designed for lead play.

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  • The Black Metal and Arctic Metal series align with the 1000 series LTD models, indicating a higher specification level than the EX-401, which is part of the 400 series.

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  • The EX-401 is compared to the Schecter E-1 by users deciding between guitars in a similar style and price range.

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  • Older EX models, such as the EX-400 and EX-351, are noted for their Korean-made higher build quality compared to some newer models.

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Build quality

  • Stainless steel frets are noted for their durability and smooth feel during bends, reducing maintenance needs.

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  • The EX-401 uses nickel frets, whereas the EX Black Metal is equipped with stainless steel frets, providing increased durability and smoother playability.

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  • Some EX-401 models are available as B-Stock on ESP's website, indicating minor imperfections but offering possibly lower pricing.

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Value and pricing

  • The EX-401 is reported to be discontinued, potentially affecting its availability and pricing in comparison to the EX Black Metal.

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  • Discontinued models like the EX-401 are seeing increased demand, often reaching $1,000 on the used market, depending on condition.

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User experience

  • Owners of the EX-401 often note that despite its discontinuation, it remains a sought-after model due to its unique design and build quality.

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