Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (6)
$719.00
Amazon
4.8 (17)
$719.00
Reverb
5.0 (8)
$719.00 New
$500.00 Used
zZounds
4.5 (3)
$719.00
Thomann
4.5 (2)
$735.00 $729.00 $6.00 · All time low

Average Price: $684

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "LTD TL-12". 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

Step into a world where classic acoustic warmth meets electric versatility with the ESP LTD TL-12. This acoustic-electric guitar redefines the gigging experience for musicians who crave the best of both worlds. The thinline design offers a sleek playing experience that harmonizes comfort with rich sound, making it a perfect companion for performers on stage. Crafted with a solid mahogany chambered body and a maple top, it delivers a resonant and warm tone that appeals to both traditionalists and modernists alike.

The TL-12 shines through its Fishman SONICORE pickup technology—a trusted choice among guitarists globally, ensuring that every note you play is captured with pristine clarity when plugged in. The mahogany neck with a Thin U contour and 22 jumbo frets provides a fast and familiar electric guitar feel, perfect for those intricate fingerstyles or robust strumming. Topped off with Graphtech NuBone-XB nuts and saddles, this guitar is designed for longevity and superior acoustic performance.

Whether you're recording in a studio or performing live, the ESP LTD TL-12 promises to deliver an unparalleled acoustic-electric experience, all while keeping you comfortable and stylish.

Key Features:

  • Thinline Acoustic Resonant Chamber design
  • Solid Mahogany chambered body with Maple Top
  • Mahogany Neck with Thin U contour
  • Rosewood Fingerboard and Bridge
  • 22 Jumbo Frets for easy playability
  • Fishman SONICORE pickup system with onboard controls
  • Graphtech NuBone-XB nuts and saddles
  • Grover Tuners for precise tuning stability
  • 12-string configuration for a fuller tone

Product specs

Available since May 2018
Design TL-12
Top Maple
Back and Sides Mahogany
Cutaway Yes
Fretboard Rosewood
Nut width in mm 48,00 mm
Frets 22
Pickup System Yes
Colour Black
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

Is the ESP LTD TL-12 suitable for beginners?

The ESP LTD TL-12, being a 12-string guitar, may require more finger strength and dexterity, making it better suited for intermediate to advanced players rather than complete beginners.

What type of wood is used for the ESP LTD TL-12's top?

The top of the ESP LTD TL-12 is made from maple, which contributes to its bright and clear tonal qualities.

Does the ESP LTD TL-12 come with a case or gigbag?

The ESP LTD TL-12 does not include a case or gigbag, so you may want to purchase one separately for protection and transport.

What is the nut width of the ESP LTD TL-12, and how does it affect playability?

The ESP LTD TL-12 has a nut width of 48 mm, which provides more space between strings, accommodating the additional strings of a 12-string guitar and potentially affecting finger positioning.

Does the ESP LTD TL-12 have a built-in pickup system?

Yes, the ESP LTD TL-12 is equipped with a built-in pickup system, allowing it to be amplified for live performances or recording.

Requinto Vlogs

Requinto Vlogs

¿UNA GUITARRA ELÉCTRICA PARA REQUINTEAR? || REVIEW LTD TL-12

Video thumbnail for ¿UNA GUITARRA ELÉCTRICA PARA REQUINTEAR? || REVIEW LTD TL-12 by Requinto Vlogs

¿UNA GUITARRA ELÉCTRICA PARA REQUINTEAR? || REVIEW LTD TL-12

Requinto Vlogs

Requinto Vlogs

Video thumbnail for Echando rolas con la docerola LTD TL-12 || Guitarra de 12 cuerdas by Requinto Vlogs

Echando rolas con la docerola LTD TL-12 || Guitarra de 12 cuerdas

Requinto Vlogs

Requinto Vlogs

Reviews

PROS

  • Comparable sound to higher-end models like Taylor at a fraction of the price

  • Comfortable neck and slim body design for easy playability

  • Excellent plugged-in sound, ideal for recording and live performances

  • High-quality craftsmanship and sturdy construction

  • Fishman electronics provide clear tone adjustments and minimal feedback

  • Grover tuners for reliable tuning stability

  • No bridge pins, simplifying string changes

  • Suitable for alternative tunings with stable neck tension

  • Attractive and modern design with various color options

  • Great value for its price, offering features of more expensive models

CONS

  • Limited acoustic volume; not ideal for unplugged sessions

  • Integrated tuner doesn't auto-off, reducing battery lifespan

  • Tight string holes at the bridge make restringing awkward

  • Wider-than-average neck may not suit all players

  • Difficulty finding a fitting case due to the guitar's length

  • Battery compartment requires a screwdriver to access, inconvenient during gigs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD TL-12.

Build quality

  • The bridge is glued on top of the finish with superglue, causing potential failure under string tension.

    Source
  • The bridge bolts are more for positioning than structural support, which can lead to design issues under tension.

    Source
  • Owners note the guitar's slim body design is favored for comfort, especially for those who find traditional acoustics too bulky.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Repair involves removing the finish beneath the bridge for a wood-to-wood bond using Titebond glue.

    Source
  • Repairs can cost around $150 to $200, often requiring a professional luthier due to the intricate fix.

    Source
  • The narrow side soundhole complicates clamping during bridge repairs compared to standard soundholes.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have reported stripped screw holes after bridge failure, necessitating larger screws for repair.

    Source
  • Users report that the guitar's top finish can vary significantly, with some finishes having more distinct grain detail.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar has a built-in EQ and tuner, enhancing its plugged-in performance capabilities.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's primarily designed for amplified use, making it ideal for living room play but requiring an amp for stage performances.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ESP LTD TL-12 is often compared to the Taylor T5z for its comfortable playability and aesthetic.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Prices have significantly increased over time, with initial models starting at $349, now priced around 800€ at retailers like Thomann.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
nicholas_spevak

Excellent for recording

This guitar is perfect for simply plugging in and recording a clean 12 string sound without all the hassle of acoustic mics.

From Gear Setup
jonarnesen

My Harp

Never held an easier played axe. Just wonderful.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sotiris Anvnnaki V. uses LTD TL-12

Sotiris Anvnnaki V.

Guitarist

Septicflesh

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen at 2:19 and 2:27

Album Usage

The LTD TL-12 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

Community setups

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nicholas_spevak

nicholas_spevak

Gear IQ 1086

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