Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $703

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

When it comes to delivering hard-hitting performance, the ESP LTD EC-401FR is a guitar that stands in a league of its own. This solid body electric guitar combines classic design with modern functionality, making it a top choice for rock and metal enthusiasts. The Floyd Rose Special bridge is a standout feature, allowing for expressive bends and dive-bombs while maintaining impeccable tuning stability. Paired with dual EMG humbucking pickups, this guitar offers a versatile tonal palette that ranges from crystal-clear cleans to aggressive, roaring high-gain sounds.

Crafted with a set-neck design, the EC-401FR is engineered for sustain, ensuring your notes resonate with clarity and power. The mahogany body and neck provide a rich, full-bodied sound with excellent note definition, while the thin "U" profile neck ensures fast and smooth playability. Whether you're shredding solos or laying down heavy riffs, the EC-401FR's ergonomic design and smooth fret access make it a joy to play.

This guitar is not just about performance; it's also about precision and durability. From its premium tonewoods to solid hardware, every aspect of the EC-401FR is designed with an attention to detail that promises a lifetime of rocking out. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring musician, the ESP LTD EC-401FR is built to inspire and impress.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with classic design
  • Floyd Rose Special bridge for expressive play
  • Dual EMG humbucking pickups for versatile tones
  • Set-neck construction for enhanced sustain
  • Mahogany body and neck with a thin "U" profile for fast playability

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EC-401 FR
Finish Black, See Thru Black Cherry
Year 2014 - 2017
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Red
Finish Features Matching Headstock
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"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Flamed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the ESP LTD EC-401FR?

The ESP LTD EC-401FR features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing fast and comfortable playability, ideal for shredding and complex chord work.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the ESP LTD EC-401FR?

The ESP LTD EC-401FR is equipped with EMG 81/60 active pickups, offering powerful, high-output tones suitable for metal and hard rock genres, with great clarity and sustain.

Is the ESP LTD EC-401FR suitable for beginners?

While the ESP LTD EC-401FR is a high-quality instrument with professional features, its locking tremolo and active pickups may be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players looking for specific tonal capabilities.

Does the ESP LTD EC-401FR have a locking tremolo system?

Yes, the ESP LTD EC-401FR comes with a Floyd Rose Special locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning and expressive dive-bombs and pitch shifts.

What materials are used in the construction of the ESP LTD EC-401FR?

The ESP LTD EC-401FR features a mahogany body with a maple top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard, providing a warm, resonant tone with a sharp attack.

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • Some owners have reported issues with fret sprout and high frets, and occasional faulty jacks due to wiring faults, especially in models post-manufacturing move to Indonesia.

    Source
  • Cosmetic issues like chipped paint and poorly done binding have been noted, particularly in models produced during the pandemic.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • There have been instances of rusted frets and strings, highlighting the need for thorough pre-purchase checks on used models.

    Source
  • It's crucial to check the neck/nut/frets/bridge condition as they define a shredding guitar's playability.

    Source
  • Deep gouges and heavy fret wear indicate prolonged, intense use, making thorough inspection crucial when purchasing used models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Korean-made 2008 models are generally regarded as having better build quality compared to Indonesian models from later years.

    Source
  • Ibanez Wizard necks are praised for comfort, while ESP LTD neck-through models are favored for playability over some higher-end models.

    Source
  • Owners often compare the EC-401FR to the EC-1000FR, noting only minor cosmetic differences, with preference towards the EC-401FR.

    Source

User experience

  • One user expressed disappointment in the EC-401's fit and finish but praised the flawless setup and playability of the Japanese E-II model.

    Source
  • Some find ESP LTD neck-through models more enjoyable than even higher-end Japanese-made Ibanez models.

    Source
  • It's been noted that some EC models are preferred over ESP Eclipse models, despite expectations of the latter being an upgrade.

    Source
  • Owners who have multiple EC models often find them more favorable than their ESP Eclipse equivalents, keeping multiple ECs over the Eclipses.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For metal genres like Slipknot, a longer scale length of at least 25.5" is recommended to accommodate low tunings like Drop A.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Upgrading to a Yamaha THR10 amp can enhance sound quality over software like Guitar Rig when using headphones.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Used EC-401FR models can be found for around $150, but condition varies significantly, with some requiring a complete refret.

    Source

2.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jeff Ling uses LTD EC-401FR

Jeff Ling

Guitarist

Parkway Drive

...
Verified via YouTube

He used this guitar in the video of boneyards. At 0:06 you can see it

More LTD Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides