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Description

Unleash your inner metal maestro with the ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar, a true testament to rock prowess and precision. Crafted for the discerning musician, this electric guitar embodies the spirit of its legendary namesake, Kirk Hammett of Metallica, offering a blend of classic design and modern enhancements.

At its core, the KH-DC boasts a neck-through-body mahogany construction, ensuring exceptional resonance and sustain. The flamed maple top not only adds a striking aesthetic but also contributes to the guitar's tonal clarity. Whether you're diving into heavy riffs or soaring solos, the active EMG 60 and 81 humbucker pickups provide a dynamic range that captures every nuance of your performance, from crisp cleans to ferocious overdrive.

Built with precision in mind, the KH-DC features a set mahogany neck crowned with a rosewood fretboard, offering 22 extra-jumbo frets for effortless playability. The Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece, complemented by Sperzel locking tuners, deliver unparalleled tuning stability, allowing you to focus on your craft without interruption. Designed for the stage and studio alike, this instrument is not just a guitar; it's an extension of your musical expression.

Join a community of dedicated musicians and elevate your artistry with a guitar that's as bold and uncompromising as your sound.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through-body mahogany construction with flamed maple top
  • Active EMG 60 and 81 humbucker pickups
  • Set mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard and 22 extra-jumbo frets
  • Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece
  • Sperzel locking tuners for superior tuning stability
  • Includes hardshell case for protection and portability

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature
Year 2012 - 2015
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Red
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"

FAQs

What type of music is the ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar best suited for?

The ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar is ideal for rock and metal genres, thanks to its dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, which delivers powerful and aggressive tones.

How does the mahogany body of the ESP LTD KH-DC affect its sound?

The mahogany body of the ESP LTD KH-DC provides a warm, rich tone with excellent sustain, making it well-suited for heavier music styles that benefit from a full-bodied sound.

Is the ESP LTD KH-DC suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP LTD KH-DC is designed for advanced players, featuring a fast neck with 24 frets and a set-neck construction for enhanced playability and access to higher frets.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar?

The neck of the ESP LTD KH-DC features a thin U profile, offering a comfortable and fast-playing experience, which is ideal for shredding and intricate lead work.

Does the ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar come with any special features?

The ESP LTD KH-DC includes Kirk Hammett's signature appointments, such as skull and crossbones inlays, which add to its aesthetic appeal and make it a standout instrument for fans of the Metallica guitarist.

Euge Valovirta

Euge Valovirta

ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar | Unboxing & Review

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar | Unboxing & Review by Euge Valovirta

ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature guitar | Unboxing & Review

Euge Valovirta

Euge Valovirta

Video thumbnail for ESP KIRK HAMMETT METALLICA SIGNATURE LTD KH-DC DOUBLE CUTAWAY FLAME TOP GUITAR UP CLOSE VIDEO REVIEW by Essex Recording Studios

ESP KIRK HAMMETT METALLICA SIGNATURE LTD KH-DC DOUBLE CUTAWAY FLAME TOP GUITAR UP CLOSE VIDEO REVIEW

Essex Recording Studios

Essex Recording Studios

Video thumbnail for Players Planet Product Overview - ESP/LTD Kirk Hammet (Metallica) Signature KH-DC by PlayersPlanetOz

Players Planet Product Overview - ESP/LTD Kirk Hammet (Metallica) Signature KH-DC

PlayersPlanetOz

PlayersPlanetOz

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-DC Electric Guitar 😄Sound Check 5/6/15 by The Guitarman 28

ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-DC Electric Guitar 😄Sound Check 5/6/15

The Guitarman 28

The Guitarman 28

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammet SamplePrototype Electric Guitar by 6-String

ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammet SamplePrototype Electric Guitar

6-String

6-String

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD KHDC Kirk Hammett Review/Demo by Andrew Kirk Graham

ESP LTD KHDC Kirk Hammett Review/Demo

Andrew Kirk Graham

Andrew Kirk Graham

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD KH-DC STBC (KIRK HAMMETT Signature) by Avallon

ESP LTD KH-DC STBC (KIRK HAMMETT Signature)

Avallon

Avallon

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-DC Electric Guitar 😎Distortion Sound Check 1 5/6/15 by The Guitarman 28

ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-DC Electric Guitar 😎Distortion Sound Check 1 5/6/15

The Guitarman 28

The Guitarman 28

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning design with a unique and classy aesthetic

  • Neck provides excellent comfort and easy access to higher frets

  • Locking tuners hold tuning exceptionally well

  • Delivers clear, balanced tones both clean and distorted

  • Comes with a high-quality case, if included

CONS

  • Neck profile and body carve may not suit all players

  • Heavier than average, which might not suit everyone

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP LTD KH-DC Kirk Hammett Signature.

Comparisons

  • The KH-602 is frequently compared favorably to the KH-202, with the 602 being noted as a better investment despite its higher cost.

    Source
  • The KH-202 is noted to have active pickups, distinguishing it from the KH-602, which features higher-quality pickups but with a finished neck.

    Source
  • It's noted that PRS guitars are considered better value by some when compared to LTD/ESP, suggesting potential buyers consider alternatives.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • EMG pickups are highlighted as suitable for heavy metal but lacking in clean tones; Fishman Fluence pickups are suggested for versatility.

    Source
  • The KH-202 model features a bolt-on neck, which can limit hand access to the upper frets compared to the neck-through design of higher-end models.

    Source
  • Despite Kirk’s recent collaboration with Gibson, ESP will continue releasing his signature models, including a new Flying V line next year.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the KH-602 as superior in playability compared to other LTD models like the Snakebyte.

    Source
  • Some users appreciate the unfinished neck on the KH-202, which mimics Kirk Hammett's preference and is also found on the KH-2 model.

    Source
  • One user notes that the KH-202’s bolt-on neck is preferred for its perceived playability, despite the common preference for neck-through designs.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Used LTD 1001 series guitars are considered a better value than new KH-602, often available for $600-$700 with similar sound quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Super strat LTD guitars around $1000 with EMG pickups can achieve the KH-602 sound, offering alternatives for metal players.

    Source
  • The KH-202 is recommended for those inspired by Kirk Hammett and who desire a guitar that visually and sonically motivates them to play more often.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest that upgrading the KH-202 with EMG pickups can make its sound nearly identical to the KH-602 model.

    Source

Build quality

  • The KH-202 uses a Floyd Rose Special bridge, which is considered entry-level with lower quality saddles compared to the mid-level Korean-made Floyd 1000 on the KH-602.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners suggest getting the KH-202 professionally set up to improve playability, especially with the Floyd Rose bridge, which can be complex for beginners.

    Source

Other

  • Delivery times can be unpredictable; one buyer reported significant delays, highlighting potential availability issues.

    Source

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