Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $790

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

The ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG is a powerhouse in the world of solid body electric guitars, crafted for those who demand both classic style and modern performance. Its iconic single-cutaway design is not just about looks; it delivers a rich, resonant sound with epic sustain, perfect for hard rock and metal enthusiasts. The set-neck construction enhances this sustain, ensuring your notes linger longer, while the slightly arched top provides superior comfort for various picking styles.

What sets the EC-1000S apart are its active EMG 60 and 81 pickups, renowned for their powerful output and exceptional clarity. Whether you're playing clean or cranking up the distortion, these pickups deliver articulate tones that cut through any mix. The guitar's aesthetics are equally impressive, with understated 3-ply binding and sleek black hardware that give it a refined yet aggressive look.

ESP LTD guitars are synonymous with quality and value, designed to bring the revered ESP craftsmanship to a wider audience. The EC-1000S is no exception, offering premium tonewoods and reliable hardware that ensure it stands up to rigorous playing. Whether you're laying down riffs in the studio or shredding on stage, this guitar is built to perform and inspire.

Key Features:

  • Iconic single-cutaway design with exceptional sustain
  • Active EMG 60 and 81 humbucking pickups for powerful output and clarity
  • Set-neck construction for enhanced resonance and sustain
  • Thin "U" profile mahogany neck for fast, smooth playability
  • Tonepros locking TOM bridge/tailpiece for stable tuning and intonation
  • Understated 3-ply binding and black hardware for a sleek look

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EC-1000S EMG
Finish Black
Year 2013 - 2018
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black
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 24.75"

FAQs

What type of pickups does the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG feature, and what tones can they produce?

The ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG is equipped with active EMG pickups, known for delivering high-output tones ideal for metal and rock genres. These pickups provide a powerful, clear sound with excellent sustain, perfect for heavy rhythm playing and searing solos.

Is the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG is a high-quality instrument, its features such as active pickups and set-neck construction are more suited to intermediate and advanced players who can fully utilize its capabilities.

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG, and how does it affect playability?

The ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG features a thin U-shaped neck profile, offering a comfortable grip and fast playability, which is ideal for shredding and complex chord work.

Can the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG handle drop tunings well?

Yes, the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG's robust construction and high-output EMG pickups make it well-suited for handling lower tunings, maintaining clarity and articulation in drop tunings.

What is the scale length of the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG, and how does it impact the guitar's feel?

The ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG has a 24.75" scale length, contributing to a slightly looser string tension, which can make bends easier and provide a warmer tone.

Justin Tutor

Justin Tutor

BEST Guitar for RECORDING Metal | ESP LTD EC-1000S

Video thumbnail for BEST Guitar for RECORDING Metal | ESP LTD EC-1000S by Justin Tutor

BEST Guitar for RECORDING Metal | ESP LTD EC-1000S

Justin Tutor

Justin Tutor

Video thumbnail for LTD EC1000S Demo & Review after 2 years of ownership | Metal Demo by JOHN’S GUITAR, MUSIC AND DEMOS

LTD EC1000S Demo & Review after 2 years of ownership | Metal Demo

JOHN’S GUITAR, MUSIC AND DEMOS

JOHN’S GUITAR, MUSIC AND DEMOS

Video thumbnail for ESP/LTD EC-1000S EMG Video Test Gear in Action by Musicoff - Where Music Matters

ESP/LTD EC-1000S EMG Video Test Gear in Action

Musicoff - Where Music Matters

Musicoff - Where Music Matters

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD EC-1000S EMG.

Features and functionality

  • The EC-1000S EMG includes a sculpted heel joint for improved playability, distinguishing it from chunkier LP styles.

    Source
  • EMG pickups are highlighted for superior battery life compared to Fishman, which could be a deciding factor for players concerned about frequent battery changes.

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  • The guitar's scale length and neck profile reportedly differ between LTD and E-II/ESP Original models, with LTDs having a thinner profile preferred by some players.

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Build quality

  • Recent models feature stainless steel frets, enhancing durability and playability over the original designs.

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  • Korean-made EC-1000S models are reported to have superior craftsmanship compared to Indonesian versions, with flawless binding and finish noted by owners.

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Comparisons

  • The EC-1000 is noted for having locking tuners and a locking bridge, unlike the EC401VB which uses Grover non-locking tuners and a non-locking bridge.

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  • Fishman pickups are noted for their midrange punch and versatility compared to EMG's compressed tone, making them suitable for modern styles and lower tunings like drop B.

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  • EC-1000S is compared favorably to discontinued models like the Jackson Dominion Pro and Gibson 2013 LPJ, outperforming them in quality and playability according to long-term owners.

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Use cases and applications

  • The EMG 81/60 pickups are praised for achieving a classic metal tone that's well-suited for modern metal styles.

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  • EMG 81 pickups are favored for aggressive rhythm tones, while Fishmans excel in clean tones, providing a broader tonal palette for varied musical styles.

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  • A polished neck on the EC-1000S provides a smooth playing experience even for those accustomed to satin finishes, facilitating fast metal playing styles.

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Value and pricing

  • Left-handed models are notably rare, and some owners import from retailers like Thomann due to local scarcity.

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  • High-end LTD models are primarily produced in Korea, while mid-tier models are often Indonesian, impacting perceived value and quality assessment among buyers.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Consider installing a 24v mod for EMG pickups to unlock additional tonal capabilities, especially if seeking a balance between power and clarity.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently mention that Fishman pickups feel less compressed and more dynamic, particularly in midrange tones, enhancing expressiveness in diverse musical applications.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report low action setups on EC-1000S models around 1.5mm on the high E string without fret buzz, indicating high-quality fretwork from the factory.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andrew Whiting uses LTD EC-1000S EMG

Andrew Whiting

Guitarist

Attack! Attack!

...
Verified via YouTube

Andrew Whiting is not using the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG in the BVTV Music video of Attack Attack!'s "Smokahontas" live at Warped Tour 2011.

See how Jeff George uses LTD EC-1000S EMG

Jeff George

Guitarist

We Are Harlot

...
Verified via YouTube

Jeff also uses an EC-1000 (seen on the 1:05 mark) on some of the records in We Are Harlot

See how Joshua Taipale uses LTD EC-1000S EMG

Joshua Taipale

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Joshua Taipale uses the ESP LTD EC-1000S EMG guitar, as demonstrated in his YouTube tutorial on how to play "I Am... (All of Me)" by Crush 40. The video provides a detailed breakdown of the song, showcasing the guitar in his signal chain.

Album Usage

The LTD EC-1000S EMG has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use LTD EC-1000S EMG, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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