LTD ESP EC-256

5.0 (2)

$599.00

4.6 (306)

$599.00 New

$518.77 Used (Like New)

5.0 (27)

$399.00 113 available New

$340.00 43 available Used

5.0 (2)

$599.00

4.5 (8)

$599.00

4.5 (115)

$525.00

£486.00

Average Price: $532

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, LTD ESP EC-256 is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "LTD ESP EC-256". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* 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

Edit description

The LTD ESP EC-256 is your gateway to the world of rock and metal, delivering the classic punch of a single-cutaway solid body guitar without emptying your wallet. This instrument promises versatility and playability, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern performance. The set-neck construction ensures seamless access to higher frets, allowing you to explore the full range of the roasted Jatoba fingerboard adorned with custom flag inlays.

Crafted from mahogany, both the body and the three-piece neck offer a rich, resonant tone, while the ESP-designed LH-150 humbucking pickups deliver a dynamic sound palette fit for any genre. The push-pull coil-splitting feature on the tone knob provides tonal flexibility, letting you switch effortlessly from humbucking to single-coil tones.

Whether you're shredding on stage or jamming in your garage, the EC-256 stands as a testament to ESP's commitment to quality and affordability. Its sleek, bound body and headstock not only provide visual appeal but also add to the guitar's overall durability and comfort. Designed for guitarists who crave a blend of tradition and innovation, the LTD ESP EC-256 is ready to become your new go-to instrument.

Key Features:

Mahogany body and 3-piece mahogany neck
Set-neck construction for superior sustain
Roasted Jatoba fingerboard with custom flag inlays
ESP-designed LH-150 humbucking pickups
Push-pull coil-splitting for versatile tone options
22 extra-jumbo frets for easy playability
Elegant multiple binding on body and headstock

Product specs

Brand	ESP LTD
Model	EC-256
Finish	Black, Black Satin, Candy Apple Red Satin, Metallic Gold, Pearl Blue, Silver Sunburst Teardrop, Snow White, Vintage Gold Satin
Year	2013 - 2025
Made In	Vietnam
Categories	Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material	Mahogany
Body Shape	Single Cutaway
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Stop-Bar
Color Family	Black, Blue, Gold, Red, Silver, White
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss, Metallic, Satin
Fretboard Material	Jatoba, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius	13.78"
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration	HH
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	24.75"
Wood Top Style	Opaque

FAQs

What type of music is the ESP LTD EC-256 suitable for?: The ESP LTD EC-256 is versatile and well-suited for genres like rock, metal, and blues, thanks to its dual humbucker pickups that provide a powerful and warm tone.
What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EC-256?: The ESP LTD EC-256 features a thin U-shaped neck profile, offering comfortable playability and making it ideal for fast playing styles.
Does the ESP LTD EC-256 have a set neck or bolt-on neck?: The ESP LTD EC-256 has a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and provides a smoother transition between the neck and body.
How does the ESP LTD EC-256 compare to a Gibson Les Paul?: The ESP LTD EC-256 offers a similar single-cutaway design and tonal characteristics to a Gibson Les Paul but at a more affordable price point, making it a great option for players seeking a Les Paul-style guitar.
What kind of pickups does the ESP LTD EC-256 have?: The ESP LTD EC-256 is equipped with ESP-designed LH-150 humbucker pickups, providing a full and dynamic sound suitable for various playing styles.

Videos

Add video

Haworth Guitars

ESP LTD EC-256 - 60 Second Review

Haworth Guitars

After one year with the LTD EC256, THIS is what I think..

Taylor Danley

A Guitar worth the Money! ESP LTD EC-256 Reviewed!

John's Music

ESP Guitars: LTD EC-256 Demo by Lenny Widegren

ESP Guitars USA

ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Review and Demo

Fret Zealot

Two guitars are never the same - ESP LTD EC-256 Black vs Purple Sunburst Comparison

George V Guitars

ESP LTD. EC-256 Black Unboxing & Sound Test by John Guitars/ 2021

John Guitars

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Great value for the price, comparable to higher-end models
Comfortable neck and fretboard, suitable for players with long fingers
Effective split coil feature for versatile sound options
Attractive black and gold finish, visually striking
Warm tone from stock pickups, suitable for rock and blues
Easy access to higher frets due to smart cutaway design
High tuning stability, even with stock tuners
Lightweight and well-balanced, comfortable for extended play
Excellent playability, suitable for both beginners and seasoned players
Push/pull feature for switching between humbucker and single coil mode

CONS

Stock tuners may feel stiff or unresponsive, potential need for upgrades
Initial setup may require action or bridge adjustments to avoid fret buzz
Occasional issues with pickup output needing attention or replacement

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD ESP EC-256.

Comparisons

0 0

The EC-256 is often compared to Les Pauls for its shape but is noted for being lighter and having a thinner neck.
Source
0 0

A player who switched from an Epiphone LP to the EC-256 preferred the latter's shape and size, finding it more comfortable.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The EC-256 lacks separate volume and tone controls for each pickup, which some players find limiting.
Source
0 0

The nut should be lubricated for smoother tuning stability, especially after changing strings or pickups.
Source

User experience

0 0

Some owners appreciate the lighter weight of the EC-256 compared to traditional Les Pauls.
Source
0 0

The satin neck finish and smooth fretboard facilitate easy bending with 10-52 gauge strings, ensuring a buzz-free play.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

The EC-256 is seen as a good candidate for upgrades, although specific recommendations for parts are not detailed.
Source
0 0

Stock pickups are described as bright and harsh, with Seymour Duncan '59 and JB models recommended for improved tone.
Source
0 0

Owners frequently upgrade to locking tuners like Gotohs or Fame for improved tuning stability, retaining tulip keystone aesthetics.
Source
0 0

EMG JHB/JHN pickups are a popular swap for a more versatile tone range, complementing heavy music styles.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Owners suggest checking neck relief and intonation, noting that factory setups often come with medium-high action. Regular adjustments improve playability.
Source
0 0

Initial neck stickiness is often resolved by sanding down to a satin finish, enhancing playability.
Source
0 0

Adjusting pickup height can significantly improve sound quality; some owners find stock pickups satisfactory after raising them.
Source

Build quality

0 0

Some owners report that included gig bags are low quality and prone to wear, advising an immediate upgrade for regular use.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Used EC-256 models are often valued around $300, with $250 being a negotiable target based on condition.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review – ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar | The Budget Guitarist

budgetguitarist.com

The ESP LTD EC-256 is a visually appealing and comfortable budget guitar, thanks to its flawless finish and ergonomic design. However, it falls short in sound quality, with underwhelming pickups that may require an upgrade. The fretwork is a significant drawback, with sharp fret ends being a common issue. While it's a decent platform for customization, the EC-256 feels overpriced compared to used alternatives like the PRS SE Tremonti. Ultimately, it's a guitar with potential but requires additional investment to shine.

neutral

Full Review

REVIEW: ESP LTD EC-256 Electric Guitar - Fret Zealot

fretzealot.com

The ESP LTD EC-256 impresses with its ergonomic design, boasting a contoured body and a comfortable, thin C-shaped neck. Its extra jumbo frets offer durability and a substantial feel. Featuring mahogany wood throughout, the guitar maintains a lightweight feel while delivering rich, resonant tones. The gold hardware and versatile ESP 150 humbuckers, with coil tap options, provide a wide tonal range suitable for jazz to hard rock. Despite not perfectly mimicking single coil pickups, it offers plenty of sound variety and excels in high-output genres. As a mid-range instrument, it's a fantastic step-up for serious players, delivering excellent playability, sound, and aesthetics at its price point.

positive

Full Review

Add review

4.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

improviz35

110

about 6 years ago

Good for its price

My first guitar I bought and it's good for what it is, I have it in white and It's not heavy and feels high quality and good in the hands, I mostly use it for practice and playing rock music.

It may need some adjustment out of the box. I had to adjust the action and the bridge otherwise, the frets would buzz a lot. It has push/pull button for switching between humbucker and single coil mode but I prefer to have it on humbucker mode.

alli3rk

143

over 9 years ago

Good middle of the line guitar

versatile and cheap, but get the job done. i haven't had a lot of trouble with it either.

Genre Usage

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

More LTD Solid Body Electric Guitars

LTD EC-1000 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$161.42 - $1,148.00

8 available stores

4.5 (85)

^# 22

in Solid Body Electric Guitars Rank

Who’s using this:

79 artists using

LTD EC-1000 Duncan Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,064.00 - $1,148.00

8 available stores

5.0 (8)

Who’s using this:

7 artists using

LTD Viper 1000 Deluxe Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,432.00 - $1,499.00

8 available stores

4.5 (8)

Who’s using this:

11 artists using

LTD Deluxe EC-1000 FR Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,149.00 - $1,359.00

5 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this:

5 artists using

LTD EC-1000 Flamed Maple Amber Sunburst Solid Body Electric Guitars

$899.00 - $1,199.00

5 available stores

5.0 (9)

Who’s using this:

LTD Snakebyte James Hetfield Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,380.00 - $1,555.00

8 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

6 artists using

LTD Viper 1000 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$949.00 - $1,432.00

6 available stores

5.0 (6)

Who’s using this:

11 artists using

LTD EC-1000 Evertune Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,199.00 - $1,390.00

7 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC Black Metal Solid Body Electric Guitars

$699.00 - $1,075.00

8 available stores

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC-256 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$399.00 - $599.00

8 available stores

4.0 (6)

Who’s using this:

LTD KH-202 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$569.00 - $629.00

6 available stores

4.0 (13)

Who’s using this:

LTD MH-10 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$231.50 - $292.75

3 available stores

5.0 (5)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD EC-256FM Solid Body Electric Guitars

$430.00 - $499.00

7 available stores

4.0 (6)

Who’s using this:

LTD M-Black Metal Solid Body Electric Guitars

$699.00 - $1,185.00

7 available stores

4.5 (2)

Who’s using this:

LTD M-200 FM Solid Body Electric Guitars

$524.66 - $599.00

6 available stores

4.0 (7)

Who’s using this:

LTD Phoenix-1000 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$699.00 - $1,269.00

7 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

6 artists using

LTD M-1000HT Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,399.00 - $1,459.00

7 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC-401 (Duplicate) Solid Body Electric Guitars

$999.00

1 available store

5.0 (2)

Who’s using this:

LTD GH-600 Gary Holt Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,059.00 - $1,699.00

6 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD Kirk Hammett Signature Demonology Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,299.00 - $1,699.00

6 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$161.42 - $1,290.00

6 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC-1001 FR Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars

$800.00 - $1,399.00

5 available stores

5.0 (3)

Who’s using this:

LTD EX-50 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$250.00

1 available store

4.5 (16)

Who’s using this:

ESP LTD EC-10 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$231.50 - $272.95

2 available stores

4.5 (11)

Who’s using this:

4 artists using

LTD EC-1000/CTM DMZ Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,000.00 - $1,549.00

3 available stores

5.0 (4)

Who’s using this:

4 artists using

LTD EC-257 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$481.00 - $599.00

8 available stores

4.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD SNAKEBYTE LH Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,380.00 - $1,499.00

8 available stores

5.0 (1)

LTD KH-602 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,249.00 - $1,499.00

8 available stores

5.0 (1)

LTD KH Demonology Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,299.00 - $1,699.00

6 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC-1000FM Evertune Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,055.12 - $1,299.00

3 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC256FM Solid Body Electric Guitars

$430.00 - $499.00

7 available stores

4.5 (2)

LTD DV8-R Solid Body Electric Guitars

4.5 (3)

Who’s using this:

6 artists using

LTD EC-256FM Solid Body Electric Guitars

$430.00 - $499.00

7 available stores

5.0 (1)

LTD EC-1000S Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,099.00 - $1,199.00

6 available stores

5.0 (3)

LTD Phoenix Black Metal Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,049.00 - $1,222.00

5 available stores

5.0 (1)

Who’s using this:

LTD EC-401 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$999.00

1 available store

5.0 (5)

LTD EC-1000 Evertune BB Solid Body Electric Guitars

$1,299.00 - $1,599.00

8 available stores

5.0 (1)

LTD Alexi-200 Solid Body Electric Guitars

$599.00 - $849.00

7 available stores

4.5 (2)

LTD F-50 Solid Body Electric Guitars

4.5 (16)

Who’s using this: