Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $793

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "LTD EC-401". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Discover the perfect blend of performance and style with the LTD EC-401, a solid body electric guitar that caters to both budding musicians and seasoned professionals. Inspired by its more premium counterpart, the EC-1000, this guitar doesn't compromise on quality. Engineered with precision, the EC-401 boasts a sleek design and superior craftsmanship, making it a staple for any guitarist's arsenal.

Unleash your musical potential with EMG 81/60 active pickups, delivering a robust and dynamic sound that excels in both studio sessions and live performances. Whether you're shredding solos or laying down crunchy rhythms, the EC-401's tonal versatility will keep you inspired. Its comfortable, fast neck allows for fluid playability, while the solid mahogany body ensures durability and resonance.

For those who demand reliability and exceptional sound, the LTD EC-401 is a formidable choice. Its aesthetic appeal is matched by its functional prowess, making it not just an instrument, but a statement. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, let the EC-401 be your go-to companion for all your musical adventures.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body for enhanced resonance and durability
  • EMG 81/60 active pickups for powerful, versatile sound
  • Set-neck construction for improved sustain
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 24 extra-jumbo frets
  • Tune-O-Matic bridge for precise intonation
  • Chrome hardware for a sleek, modern look

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EC-401
Finish Black, Charcoal Satin, Military Green Satin, Olympic White, Sage Green Satin, Vintage Black
Year 2009 - 2025
Made In China
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Green, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss, Satin
Fretboard Material Pau Ferro, 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 kind of music genres is the LTD EC-401 Black suitable for?

The LTD EC-401 Black, equipped with EMG-81 and EMG-60 active pickups, is ideal for metal and hard rock genres, providing high output and clarity that suit heavy riffing and solos.

How does the neck profile of the LTD EC-401 Black affect playability?

The guitar features a thin U neck contour, which offers a comfortable grip and fast playability, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists who favor speed and precision.

Is the LTD EC-401 Black suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its robust mahogany body, set-neck construction, and active EMG pickups, the LTD EC-401 Black delivers reliable performance and powerful sound, making it well-suited for live gigs.

What is the scale length of the LTD EC-401 Black, and how does it impact tone?

The LTD EC-401 Black has a 24.75" scale length, which contributes to a warmer tone and slightly looser string tension, enhancing playability and facilitating bends.

Does the LTD EC-401 Black come with a case?

No, the LTD EC-401 Black does not include a case, so you may need to purchase one separately to protect your instrument during transport and storage.

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: Bruce Kulick and the LTD EC-401

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: Bruce Kulick and the LTD EC-401 by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: Bruce Kulick and the LTD EC-401

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for LTD EC-401 HONEST REVIEW by Ari Balzar

LTD EC-401 HONEST REVIEW

Ari Balzar

Ari Balzar

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EC-401 BLK | TV Guitar Center by TVGuitarCenter

ESP LTD EC-401 BLK | TV Guitar Center

TVGuitarCenter

TVGuitarCenter

Reviews

PROS

  • Super comfortable for extended playing sessions

  • Flawless craftsmanship despite being made in China

  • Excellent sound for both clean and aggressive tones

  • Lightweight body for easy handling

  • Smooth satin finish enhances playability

  • EMG pickups deliver powerful, punchy sound

  • Versatile for genres from rock to extreme metal

  • Offers great value for the price

  • Attractive military green and charcoal satin finishes

  • Reliable setup straight out of the box

CONS

  • Lacks locking tuners, which may affect tuning stability

  • Slightly compressed sound with active pickups

  • Bridge quality could be improved

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • 2008 Korean models are reported to have better reputation compared to later Indonesian models, with fewer issues in craftsmanship.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some guitars had issues like fret sprout and high frets, requiring professional setup to be fully functional.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners express that E-II models offer superior playability and setup straight out of the box compared to EC-401 and EC-1000.

    Source
  • Owners suggest the model number at the 12th fret inlay is indicative of an earlier production year, which changed around 2017-2018.

    Source

Comparisons

  • E-II models with Seymour Duncan pickups were noted to be only marginally more expensive than EC-1000 models, offering better build quality.

    Source
  • The EC-401 from 2017 features a sculpted neck joint, unlike the 2013 EC-1000, which has a flat joint, affecting accessibility and playability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Both the EC-401 and EC-1000 mentioned come equipped with EMG 81 (bridge) and 60 (neck) pickups, suited for metal genres with high output and clarity.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The EC-401 is noted to handle drop B and standard C# tunings well, making it a versatile option for metal genres.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Genre Usage

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