Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $735

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

The ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS is a powerhouse of an electric bass, crafted for those who demand both style and substance. Designed in collaboration with legendary bassist Frank Bello, this signature model is built to perform with precision and flair. The bass boasts a sturdy mahogany body paired with a bolt-on maple neck, delivering a resonant sound with robust sustain. The Makassar ebony fretboard is not only visually striking but also ensures smooth playability across all 21 extra jumbo frets, making every riff and run an effortless endeavor.

One of the defining features of the FBJ 400 is its dynamic pickup configuration. Equipped with EMG LJ-HZ RED at the bridge and EMG P-HZ RED at the neck, this bass brings clarity and punch to your every note. These passive electronics are fine-tuned with controls for volume, balance, and tone, allowing you to sculpt your sound with ease and precision. The LTD DB-4 bridge and vintage machine heads provide exceptional tuning stability, so you can focus on your music without distraction.

Whether you're laying down the groove in the studio or commanding the stage, the FBJ 400's black hardware and satin finish exude a sleek, professional aesthetic. Its well-thought-out design and high-quality components make it a reliable choice for any bassist seeking to elevate their performance.

Key Features:

  • Frank Bello Signature Model
  • Mahogany body with bolt-on maple neck
  • Makassar ebony fretboard with 21 extra jumbo frets
  • EMG LJ-HZ RED and EMG P-HZ RED pickups
  • Passive electronics with volume, balance, and tone controls
  • LTD DB-4 bridge and vintage machine heads
  • D'Addario XL165 strings (.045-.105)

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model FBJ-400 Frank Bello Signature
Finish Black Satin
Year 2017 - 2020
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape J-Style
Color Family Black
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS best suited for?

The ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS, with its passive pickups and active preamp, is versatile and well-suited for rock and metal genres, delivering powerful and punchy tones ideal for these styles.

What is the neck profile like on the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS?

The ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS features a comfortable maple neck with a smooth satin finish, providing fast playability and ease of access across all 21 frets.

Does the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS have a good balance between low and high frequencies?

Yes, the mahogany body and ebony fretboard of the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS offer a rich, balanced tone with pronounced lows and clear highs, making it suitable for various playing styles.

Is the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS suitable for beginners?

While the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS is a signature model designed with professional features, its comfortable neck and versatile tone make it accessible for both beginners and advanced players.

How does the pickup configuration impact the sound of the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS?

The split-coil pickup configuration of the ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS provides a classic, punchy sound with excellent note definition, enhancing its suitability for rock and metal music.

Rob Arnold

Rob Arnold

🎸Anthrax Frank Bello Bass! Plus Bass Tone & Production Advice!

Video thumbnail for 🎸Anthrax Frank Bello Bass! Plus Bass Tone & Production Advice! by Rob Arnold

🎸Anthrax Frank Bello Bass! Plus Bass Tone & Production Advice!

Rob Arnold

Rob Arnold

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile sound range suitable for rock, metal, and more

  • Efficient and wide-ranging pickup selection knob

  • Comfortable and smooth satin neck enhances playability

  • Ebony fingerboard provides a quick and smooth playing experience

  • Clear and punchy pickups deliver impressive sound quality

  • Attractive aesthetic with striking red against black design

CONS

  • Fragile tuning machines prone to damage

  • Heavy weight may be uncomfortable for some players

  • Poor tuning stability; mechanics are stiff and imprecise

  • Plastic string guide prone to breaking

  • Delivered without a protective case or gig bag

  • Inconsistent build quality with some parts feeling cheap

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD FBJ 400 BLKS.

Mods and upgrades

  • EMG FB signature pickups are recommended as a replacement for stock passive EMG PJ pickups for improved tone and versatility.

    Source
  • The Darkglass Tone Capsule is suggested as a preamp upgrade, offering improved control with bass/lo mid/hi mid frequency adjustments.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bass is equipped with passive EMG PJ pickups, which some users find less impressive compared to active versions.

    Source
  • It's noted that the neutral fret on multi-scale models is at the 12th fret, affecting reach and playability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A proper setup and fresh strings are essential for optimal performance on this LTD bass.

    Source
  • Users recommend adjusting the tuners and possibly replacing the stock preamp for enhanced performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Consideration between the ESP LTD FBJ-400 and Fender Player Jaguar is based on preference for passive pickups and tonal versatility.

    Source
  • A user who switched from LTD to Music Man Sterling noted improved comfort and a better feel with the latter.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note passive EMGs feel unusual in context, suggesting potential compatibility issues with the all-passive setup.

    Source
  • A user reported that the LTD B-1004 is a kilogram (2.2 lbs) lighter than the B-204 series, which might be a consideration for players concerned about weight.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners report neck dive issues on certain models, specifically mentioning discomfort during long playing sessions.

    Source

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