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Average Price: $300

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$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

Step into a world of sonic exploration with the ESP LTD M-401, a solid body electric guitar crafted for musicians who crave precision and versatility. This model stands out with its EMG 81/85 active humbucker pickups, delivering a high-output, aggressive tone perfect for metal and hard rock genres. This guitar is designed for speed and comfort, featuring a sleek double-cutaway design that allows for easy access to higher frets.

The M-401's maple neck is paired with a rosewood fingerboard, offering a smooth playing experience that's both responsive and dynamic. Its ultra-thin U-shaped neck profile provides fast action, ideal for shredding and complex solos. Equipped with a Floyd Rose Special tremolo bridge, this guitar ensures stable tuning and dynamic dive-bombs, letting your creativity soar without limitations.

With its robust construction and high-quality components, the ESP LTD M-401 is not just an instrument; it's a reliable partner for both stage performances and studio recordings. Whether you're riffing through crunchy rhythms or laying down soaring leads, this guitar has the power and precision to meet your needs.

Key Features:

  • Solid body design with double-cutaway
  • EMG 81/85 active humbucker pickups for high-output sound
  • Maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Ultra-thin U-shaped neck profile for fast playability
  • 24 extra-jumbo frets for extended range
  • Floyd Rose Special tremolo bridge for tuning stability
  • Black hardware for a sleek finish

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model M-401
Year 2009
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-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"

FAQs

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

The ESP LTD M-401 is ideal for metal and rock genres due to its dual humbucker pickup configuration, which delivers powerful, high-gain tones perfect for heavy riffs and solos.

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

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

Does the ESP LTD M-401 have a locking tremolo system?

Yes, the ESP LTD M-401 is equipped with a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning even with extensive use of the whammy bar for dive bombs and pitch shifts.

Is the ESP LTD M-401 suitable for beginners?

While the ESP LTD M-401 is primarily designed for intermediate to advanced players due to its specialized features, dedicated beginners interested in metal or rock may also find it a rewarding choice.

How does the set-through neck construction of the ESP LTD M-401 affect playability?

The set-through neck construction provides enhanced sustain and easy access to upper frets, making it ideal for fast solos and complex fingerwork.

Anderson Vaz

Anderson Vaz

ESP LTD M-401 Set-Neck with EMG 81 - Close look

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD M-401 Set-Neck with EMG 81 - Close look by Anderson Vaz

ESP LTD M-401 Set-Neck with EMG 81 - Close look

Anderson Vaz

Anderson Vaz

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The 9th fret wire may have small holes under the G, B, and E strings, causing slight bumps during vibrato or bending.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's noted that plugging into the input jack requires more force compared to Ibanez models; no performance issues reported.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The model features EMG-81 active pickups in the bridge position and EMG-60 active pickups in the neck position.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EC-1000, made in Korea, has locking tuners and an ebony fretboard, contrasting the Indonesian-made EC-401 with a rosewood fingerboard.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the lead input tension as normal for these models, alleviating concerns for new users.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Purchasing from Musician's Friend can offer discounts; one owner paid $616 instead of the listed $650 by requesting a discount.

    Source

Critic Reviews

LTD M-401 Review: The Ibanez was a pretty versatile guitar with a H-S-H pickup... | ESP | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The ESP LTD M-401 finds its groove in metal with its high-output EMG 81 pickups, delivering clear cleans and powerful distortion. While it shines in heavy genres, its versatility doesn't extend to country or jazz. Players will appreciate its comfortable design and reliable build, though the Licensed Floyd Rose tremolo disappoints with tuning stability issues. Despite being well-equipped for the price, its tremolo might leave some wishing for an upgrade. Overall, a solid choice for metalheads on a budget but not without its compromises.

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