Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $554
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "LTD EC-257". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Discover new sonic depths with the ESP LTD EC-257, a 7-string masterpiece crafted for those eager to explore extended range playing without breaking the bank. Designed for both aggressive tones and smooth playability, this guitar's robust mahogany body resonates with warmth and power, delivering a classic yet modern aesthetic. The set-neck construction ensures exceptional sustain, making it a reliable companion for your musical ventures.
Equipped with dual ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers, the EC-257 offers a versatile tonal palette, perfect for a wide array of genres from djent to rock. The three-piece mahogany neck, capped with a roasted jatoba fretboard, provides a comfortable and fluid playing experience, while the 22 extra-jumbo frets make every note accessible and expressive.
Whether you're shredding solos or laying down deep, rhythm-heavy tracks, the EC-257's tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece promise stable tuning and precise intonation. Its sleek design and authoritative sound make it an ideal choice for any guitarist looking to expand their musical horizons.
Key Features:
- 7-string solid body electric guitar
- Mahogany body with a set-neck for enhanced sustain
- 3-piece mahogany neck with roasted jatoba fretboard
- 22 extra-jumbo frets for comfortable playability
- Dual ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers
- Tune-o-matic bridge with stopbar tailpiece
- Satin finish with black hardware
- 3-way toggle switch, 2 volume, and 1 tone control
Product specs
| Model | LTD EC-257 |
| Neck Finish | Satin |
| Fret Type | Extra Jumbo |
| Number of Strings | 7 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | Eclipse |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Finish | Satin Polyurethane |
| Neck Material | 3-piece Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Thin U |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 15.74" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Pearloid Flags |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Nut Width | 1.889" |
| Nut Material | Molded |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Tune-O-Matic Bridge, Stopbar Tailpiece |
| Tuners | LTD |
| Neck Pickup | ESP LH-150N Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | ESP LH-150B Humbucker |
| Controls | 2 x volume, 1 x tone (push/pull coil-split) |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | D'Addario, .010-.059 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Sold Separately |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-257 Black Satin?
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The ESP LTD EC-257 features a Thin U neck profile, which offers a comfortable and fast playing experience, suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
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Is the ESP LTD EC-257 suitable for metal music?
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Yes, the ESP LTD EC-257 is well-suited for metal music, thanks to its 7-string configuration and powerful humbucker pickups that provide a heavy, aggressive tone.
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Can the ESP LTD EC-257 be used for coil-splitting?
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Yes, the ESP LTD EC-257 features a push/pull coil-split function on the tone control, allowing you to split the humbuckers for a single-coil sound.
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What kind of pickups are installed in the ESP LTD EC-257?
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The ESP LTD EC-257 is equipped with ESP LH-150 humbuckers in both the neck and bridge positions, offering a versatile and robust sound.
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Does the ESP LTD EC-257 come with a case or gig bag?
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No, the ESP LTD EC-257 does not come with a case or gig bag; these accessories are sold separately.
Videos
The Bass Pedal Show
ESP Ltd EC 257 7 String Guitar Review - Goliath Studios
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional tone clarity, especially in high gain settings
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Push/pull pot splits humbuckers into single coils, adding versatility
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Attractive, flawless matte black finish
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Excellent balance, no neck dive
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Jumbo frets enhance playing speed
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Suitable for diverse genres from metal to disco
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Stays in tune well, even with intense play
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Smooth fretboard, no sharp edges
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Competitive price for a 7-string guitar
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Good platform for future upgrades
CONS
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Neck may feel thick for some players
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Machine heads could be more precise
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Pickup selector can obstruct playing during tapping
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Some quality control issues, like minor finish imperfections
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Stock pickups might not satisfy all preferences
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD EC-257.
Build quality
Comparisons
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Ibanez guitars below $300 often have poor fretwork, while their quality improves significantly in the $600+ range, making the LTD EC-257 a better choice at its price point.
Source -
Agile guitars are suggested as a better alternative in the lower price range due to their direct sales model, offering more value than entry-level Ibanez models.
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Nitro finishes, typically found on higher-end models, are harder to apply than poly and unlikely at this price point.
Source
Value and pricing
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The ESP LTD EC-257 offers nearly ESP-level quality without the high price, making it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable mid-range seven-string guitar.
Source
User experience
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Users recommend testing guitars in person due to variability in quality, even among models from the same brand and price range.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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Owners suggest upgrading the pickups and tuners for improved tone and tuning stability.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
62
Bonne entrée de gamme 7 cordes
Pourrait avoir un meilleur nut, meilleurs micros et meilleurs tuners mais sinon marche très bien
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use LTD EC-257, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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