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Description

Crafted with precision and designed for the discerning guitarist, the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe is a solid body electric guitar that combines elegance with raw power. Renowned in the world of heavy metal and hard rock, this guitar is built to withstand the rigors of intense performances while providing versatile tonal capabilities. Its sleek body is made from premium materials, ensuring durability and a comfortable playing experience.

One of the standout features of the M-I Deluxe is its EMG 81 pickup, which delivers a punchy, high-output sound perfect for cutting through the mix in any live or studio setting. The neck-thru-body construction provides excellent sustain and resonance, allowing notes to ring out with clarity and precision. Equipped with a fast and smooth maple neck, players can enjoy effortless playability across the fretboard.

The ESP Standard M-I Deluxe also features a Floyd Rose Original tremolo system, offering exceptional tuning stability and the ability to perform deep dive bombs and expressive vibrato effects without compromising pitch. Whether you're shredding solos or laying down heavy riffs, this guitar is engineered to keep up with your creativity.

Key Features:

  • EMG 81 active pickup for high-output sound
  • Neck-thru-body construction for enhanced sustain
  • Maple neck for fast and smooth playability
  • Floyd Rose Original tremolo system for reliable tuning stability
  • Sleek design crafted for comfort and durability

Product specs

Brand ESP
Model Standard M-I Deluxe with Maple Fretboard, Standard M-I Deluxe with Rosewood Fretboard
Year 1987
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Blue, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe like?

The ESP Standard M-I Deluxe features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience, ideal for shredding and technical playing styles.

What type of pickups does the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe use and what tones can I expect?

The guitar uses an HSS pickup configuration, offering a versatile range of tones from crisp and clear single-coil sounds to powerful humbucker-driven output, suitable for various genres including rock and metal.

Is the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe is designed with professional features like a locking tremolo bridge and 24 frets, making it highly suitable for advanced players seeking precision and versatility.

Does the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe come in different fretboard materials?

Yes, the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe is available with either a maple or rosewood fretboard, allowing players to choose based on their preference for tone and feel.

What is the body shape of the ESP Standard M-I Deluxe?

The ESP Standard M-I Deluxe has an S-style body shape, which is ergonomic and popular among players for its comfortable contours and balanced weight distribution.

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • Many owners prefer pre-2014 ESP Standards over E-II models, emphasizing the preference for original headstock logos and perceived build quality.

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  • Potential buyers also consider Ibanez RG 550 and Iron Label models, which are similarly priced but differ in features like neck pickup presence and tuning stability.

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  • Owners note that the E-II models typically come with Gotoh locking tuners, whereas older ESP Standards often feature Sperzel tuners.

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Value and pricing

  • It's reported that early 90s ESP guitars are considered highly valuable, with some models like the green Stef Carpenter 6-string being particularly sought after.

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User experience

  • Enthusiasts frequently monitor platforms like Reverb for reasonably priced 2000s ESP Standards, which are praised for their superior feel.

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  • Owners express nostalgia for early LTD models, noting unexpected branding differences upon delivery but still valuing them for their playability.

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Features and functionality

  • The ESP Standard M-I Deluxe from 2018 featured rosewood fretboards, which were later upgraded to ebony, though some prefer the dark shade of the earlier rosewood.

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  • It's been observed that E-II models generally feel heavier compared to older ESP Standards, which are often lighter.

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Build quality

  • The matte black finish on the neck of ESP guitars can show wear quickly, becoming shinier within six months, which is a normal characteristic of this paint type.

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  • There are reports that E-II models can have comparable build quality to ESP Standards, despite differences in weight and tuning stability.

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Use cases and applications

  • The M-I Deluxe is appreciated for drop C tuning, catering well to nu-metal players who typically avoid neck pickups.

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  • An ESP Standard was described as a main touring guitar for six years, indicating its reliability for frequent live performances.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report that E-II models may require more frequent tuning adjustments compared to ESP Standards.

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Mods and upgrades

  • One owner modified their ESP with Seymour Duncan Blackouts and an EMG EXG tone expander to achieve higher output.

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