Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $2,124
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "LTD B-1005MS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The ESP LTD B-1005MS is your gateway to a world of sonic exploration and ergonomic playability. This 5-string electric bass features a Multi-Scale fretboard, where each string enjoys its own scale length, ranging from 34" to 37". This unique design optimizes string tension, providing a deep, resonant low end while maintaining agility and clarity on the higher strings. Whether you're an experienced bassist or venturing into multi-scale territory for the first time, you'll find the transition seamless and intuitive.
Crafted with a swamp ash body and topped with striking ziricote, the B-1005MS is not just about exceptional sound but also stunning aesthetics. Its five-piece wenge/purple heart neck with a pau ferro fingerboard ensures durability and a smooth playing experience. The bass is equipped with Nordstrand Big Splits pickups, known for their low-noise output and ability to cover a broad range of genres from rock to metal. Paired with an active/passive mini-switch and a comprehensive 3-band EQ with mid-frequency selection, you have the power to sculpt your sound precisely to your liking.
The B-1005MS isn't only about its auditory prowess; its hardware components are top-notch. Featuring a black bone nut, Gotoh tuners, and an adjustable Hipshot Solo bridge, this bass offers reliable performance and tuning stability for every gig or studio session. Embrace the versatility and craftsmanship of the ESP LTD B-1005MS and set your creativity free.
Key Features:
- 5-string electric bass with Multi-Scale fretboard (34–37-inch scale)
- Swamp ash body with ziricote top
- Nordstrand Big Splits hum-cancelling pickups
- 3-band active EQ with mid-frequency selection
- Active/passive mini-switch
- Hipshot Solo bridge and Gotoh tuners
Product specs
| Brand | ESP LTD |
| Model | B-1005 Multi-Scale |
| Finish | Natural Satin |
| Year | 2019 - 2025 |
| Categories | 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | Active Preamp |
| Body Material | Ash |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Natural, Tan |
| Finish Style | Satin |
| Fretboard Material | Pau Ferro |
| Neck Material | Wenge |
| Number of Frets | 24 |
| Number of Strings | 5-String |
| Pickup Configuration | Split-Coil / Split-Coil |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What is the advantage of the multi-scale design on the ESP LTD B-1005MS?
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The multi-scale design provides varying string lengths, improving tension and intonation across the strings. This results in better playability, especially for lower tunings, and enhances the overall tonal balance of the bass.
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How does the Pau Ferro fretboard affect the tone of the ESP LTD B-1005MS?
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The Pau Ferro fretboard offers a smooth playing surface with tonal characteristics similar to rosewood, providing a warm, balanced sound with a slightly brighter edge, enhancing the bass's clarity and articulation.
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What kind of music genres is the ESP LTD B-1005MS suitable for?
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The ESP LTD B-1005MS is versatile and well-suited for genres like metal, rock, and jazz, thanks to its active preamp and passive pickups, which deliver a powerful, dynamic range of tones.
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Can the ESP LTD B-1005MS be used for slap bass techniques?
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Yes, the ESP LTD B-1005MS is suitable for slap bass techniques. Its ash body and active electronics provide a punchy, articulate sound that complements slap styles effectively.
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Does the ESP LTD B-1005MS come with a case or gig bag?
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The ESP LTD B-1005MS typically does not include a case or gig bag. It's advisable to purchase a compatible case separately to ensure the bass is protected during transport.
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How does the ESP LTD B-1005MS handle lower tunings?
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The multi-scale design of the ESP LTD B-1005MS enhances string tension, making it particularly effective for lower tunings by maintaining clarity and reducing floppiness in the strings.
Videos
Above, Below
Above, Below - Eternal Sunshine (Bass Playthrough)
Reviews
PROS
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Beautiful wood finish with eye-catching red hues
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Responsive and versatile for multiple music styles
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Extended scale handles low tunings effortlessly
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Easy adaptation to fanned frets
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High-quality Nordstrand pickups for exceptional sound
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Sleek and playable neck design
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Reasonable weight for its size
CONS
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Fanned frets can be tricky on the first fret of low strings
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Some issues with frets being too far from the fretboard
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Potential separation between the fretboard and neck
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD B-1005MS.
User experience
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Owners note that the ESP B-1005MS is heavy, but a dual strap setup improves comfort significantly.
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Comparisons
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The ESP B-1005MS is compared to Dingwall Combustion, seen as a budget-friendly alternative, with a similar 37” B scale but at a lower price point.
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The LTD B-1005MS is praised for its low-end punch, making it more suitable for death metal, contrasting with the Dingwall's metallic sound.
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Compared to Ibanez's 35.5" scale fanned fret models, the ESP LTD's 37" scale offers a more pronounced difference from standard 34" basses, enhancing low tuning performance.
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Value and pricing
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Dingwall Combustion and NG-3 models offer a 37” B string in six string versions, but they are around $1,000 more expensive than the ESP B-1005MS.
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Mods and upgrades
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Replacing the active preamp with a Darkglass Tone Capsule is recommended to achieve a tone similar to Dingwall NG models.
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The Nordstrand Big Splits in the ESP LTD B-1005MS can be easily replaced due to their standard 5-string size, unlike other models with unconventional pickup shapes.
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Use cases and applications
Features and functionality
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The LTD's use of Nordstrand pickups is noted for the ability to achieve a similar sound to Dingwall when paired with a Darkglass pedal.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Before I was able to work on the B-1005SE Multi-Scale, I already had experience playing a multi-scale bass. At first, there was a mild learning curve, especially toward the higher frets, past the 12th fret. But if you’re playing in the range of the first through twelfth frets, where most bass lines are played, it’s really no learning curve, and is really comfortable. I do a couple of scale-style bass riffs, and it’s actually more comfortable than a standard bass.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use LTD B-1005MS, it is most commonly used with the following gear.