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Pricing and availability

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Description

Unleash the power of raw, unbridled sound with the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone, a guitar that stands as a formidable ally for those who crave the depths of down-tuned sonic landscapes. Inspired by James Hetfield's weapon of choice on Metallica's WorldWired Tour, this limited-edition baritone guitar is crafted to deliver a signature wall of sound with unparalleled clarity and punch. Its edgy, resonant timbre is born from a potent combination of a mahogany body topped with striking quilted maple, ensuring both visual allure and tonal depth.

The ESP LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone’s heart beats with the power of active EMG JH “HET” humbuckers, specifically designed to fulfill Hetfield's demand for the punch of passive pickups with all the warmth and presence of active ones. A 27" scale length allows for expressive down tuning without compromising string tension, making it ideal for modern, hard-hitting styles. The thin U-shaped mahogany neck enhances playability, promising effortless, fast riffing that is sure to ignite your creative instincts.

With just 500 models available worldwide, this guitar is as exclusive as it is powerful, a true testament to the legacy of Metallica's iconic rhythm guitarist. Whether you're chasing the gritty depths of heavy metal or crafting your own unique sound, the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone stands ready to amplify your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Replica of James Hetfield's guitar from Metallica's WorldWired Tour
  • Baritone design with 27" scale length for optimal down tuning
  • Mahogany body with quilted maple top for resonant, edgy tone
  • EMG JH “HET” active humbuckers for clarity and punch
  • Thin U-shaped mahogany neck for fast, comfortable play
  • Limited to 500 guitars worldwide
  • LTD locking tuners for superior tuning stability
Beau Monde Guitars

Beau Monde Guitars

Harry's ESP LTD James Hetfield SE Snakebyte Baritone Guitar!

Video thumbnail for Harry's ESP LTD James Hetfield SE Snakebyte Baritone Guitar! by Beau Monde Guitars

Harry's ESP LTD James Hetfield SE Snakebyte Baritone Guitar!

Beau Monde Guitars

Beau Monde Guitars

Video thumbnail for LTD (by ESP) Snakebyte SE Baritone James Hetfield Metallica Limited 500 pieces 2018 by Guitars Collector

LTD (by ESP) Snakebyte SE Baritone James Hetfield Metallica Limited 500 pieces 2018

Guitars Collector

Guitars Collector

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone.

Setup and maintenance

  • To tune a 27-inch scale baritone to EADGBE, consider using a 54 gauge low string to avoid truss rod adjustments.

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Features and functionality

  • The ESP LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone comes with a 62 gauge low string, suitable for lower tunings without needing immediate modifications.

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Value and pricing

  • The price for the ESP LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone can fluctuate significantly, with some reports of a $200 price drop lasting only 48 hours.

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Use cases and applications

  • This baritone is noted for its appeal to those seeking a non-super strat design for metal, offering a unique aesthetic with its purple finish and black hardware.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Refinishing the maple top can be challenging due to its thinness, making color changes risky but rewarding if done carefully.

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User experience

  • Owners report that recoloring a rare guitar can make it stand out, even if it's initially daunting.

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  • Some owners are creating custom collections, indicating strong personal investment and the guitar's appeal for customization.

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Build quality

  • The maple top is noted as extremely thin, demanding careful handling during modifications.

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Critic Reviews

ESP Introduces New James Hetfield LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone Guitar | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

ESP LTD's Snakebyte SE Baritone is a striking tribute to James Hetfield, boasting a stunning Purple Sunburst finish and a 27-inch scale that extends its tonal range. With high-quality features like EMG pickups, a robust mahogany body, and solid construction, it’s clearly designed for heavy riffing. However, at $1,399, the price may deter budget-conscious players, and some may find the neck profile less comfortable for extended sessions. Overall, while it excels in aesthetic and performance, its premium cost and specific ergonomics might not suit everyone.

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4.5 out of 5

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Artist usage

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See how James Hetfield uses LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone

James Hetfield

Guitarist, Singer

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

"The LTD Snakebyte SE Baritone is a new collaboration by James Hetfield and ESP. It is a replica of the original model currently played by James on Metallica’s WorldWired Tour." - ESP

Genre Usage

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

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