Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,249

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

Step into the spotlight with the ESP LTD EX 400 BD, a powerhouse of a guitar designed for those who demand performance and style. This solid body electric guitar combines the classic tone of a mahogany body with the precision of a set neck construction, ensuring robust sustain and resonance that's perfect for any genre.

Elevate your sound with the EMG active pickups, featuring an EMG-81 in the bridge position for those crisp, cutting leads, and an EMG-60 at the neck for smooth, buttery rhythms. Whether you're shredding on stage or recording in the studio, these pickups deliver clarity and punch that cut through the mix. The 24-3/4" scale length and rosewood fretboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets make for a comfortable playing experience, allowing you to explore the full range of your musical expression without limitations.

Tuning stability is a breeze with the Earvana compensated nut and Grover tuners, ensuring your sound remains in perfect harmony across all positions. The tune-o-matic-style bridge with a stop tailpiece adds to the guitar's reliable performance, letting you focus on expressing your musical creativity without worry.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body with set neck construction
  • EMG-81 bridge and EMG-60 neck active pickups
  • 24-3/4" scale length
  • Rosewood fretboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets
  • Earvana compensated nut for superior tuning stability
  • Grover tuners
  • Tune-o-matic-style bridge with stop tailpiece

Product specs

Brand ESP LTD
Model EX-400 BD
Finish Black with Black Diamond Plate
Year 2004 - 2006
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape X-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the ESP LTD EX 400 BD like?

The ESP LTD EX 400 BD features a set-neck construction with a three-piece maple neck, offering a comfortable and fast-playing profile suitable for rock and metal genres.

What type of pickups does the ESP LTD EX 400 BD use?

The ESP LTD EX 400 BD is equipped with EMG-81 and EMG-60 active pickups, providing high output and clarity, ideal for heavy music styles.

Is the ESP LTD EX 400 BD suitable for metal music?

Yes, the ESP LTD EX 400 BD is designed with metal players in mind, featuring high-output EMG pickups and a solid mahogany body for powerful, aggressive tones.

What is the body material of the ESP LTD EX 400 BD?

The body of the ESP LTD EX 400 BD is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm, resonant tone and sustain.

How many frets does the ESP LTD EX 400 BD have?

The ESP LTD EX 400 BD has 22 extra jumbo frets, providing ample space for expressive playing and easy bending.

cortez31

cortez31

ESP LTD EX-400 Soundtest

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EX-400 Soundtest by cortez31

ESP LTD EX-400 Soundtest

cortez31

cortez31

Video thumbnail for ESP LTD EX 400 BLACK EXPLORER EMG NECK-THRU KOREAN GUITAR UP CLOSE REVIEW VIDEO by Essex Recording Studios

ESP LTD EX 400 BLACK EXPLORER EMG NECK-THRU KOREAN GUITAR UP CLOSE REVIEW VIDEO

Essex Recording Studios

Essex Recording Studios

Video thumbnail for ltd ex 400 review by DeadmeatDarkdaylight

ltd ex 400 review

DeadmeatDarkdaylight

DeadmeatDarkdaylight

Video thumbnail for I JUST BOUGHT an ESP LTD EX-400BD BRONZE Diamond Plated Explorer!!! by Gluedbarstool

I JUST BOUGHT an ESP LTD EX-400BD BRONZE Diamond Plated Explorer!!!

Gluedbarstool

Gluedbarstool

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD EX 400 BD.

Build quality

  • The diamond plate shows wear from playing, particularly above the bridge pickup, indicating durability concerns with heavy use.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Frets are in excellent condition despite age, with some needing a crown and polish, suggesting longevity of fret material.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar originally comes with EMG 81 pickups in both bridge and neck positions, offering a distinct sound profile.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Noted for its association with musicians like Sammoth from Emperor and Dan Jacobs from Atreyu, appealing to fans of metal and rock genres.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the guitar's nostalgic and iconic appeal, often seeking it due to its history and association with famous guitarists.

    Source
  • Owners who mod their EX 400 often do so with the intent to keep the guitar for life, indicating a strong personal attachment to customized versions.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some owners believe the price inflation in the used market for the EX 400 is stabilizing, though high asking prices were common over the past two years.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Locking tuners and battery boxes for active pickups are popular mods for better functionality and easier maintenance, though they might impact resale value.

    Source

Critic Reviews

LTD EX-400BD Review: If lost or stolen, I'd definately get another. | ESP | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The ESP LTD EX-400BD is a powerhouse for metal enthusiasts, boasting EMG 81/60 pickups that deliver crystal-clear notes even under heavy distortion. It's built like a tank with a mahogany body for excellent sustain, yet surprisingly lightweight. The Korean craftsmanship rivals American-made instruments, though some might find the painted neck less appealing. While its understated aesthetics won't win beauty contests, its ruggedness and performance make it ideal for gigs and recordings. However, the guitar's top-heavy nature can be an issue without a good strap. Overall, it's a reliable, no-frills choice for those prioritizing sound and durability.

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5.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Patryk "Seth" Sztyber uses LTD EX 400 BD

Patryk "Seth" Sztyber

Guitarist, Composer

Behemoth

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Verified via Photo

Patryk "Seth" Sztyber is seen using the ESP LTD EX 400 BD guitar in the provided image.

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