Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $473
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "LTD EC-256FM". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The LTD EC-256FM is where classic design meets modern versatility, offering guitarists a blend of timeless style with cutting-edge features. Crafted with a mahogany body and a stunning flamed maple top, this guitar not only looks impressive but delivers a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for a variety of musical genres. The set-neck construction enhances sustain, enabling searing solos and resonant chords that linger beautifully.
Equipped with a pair of ESP LH-150 humbucking pickups, the EC-256FM delivers a powerful, full-bodied sound with excellent clarity and punch. The addition of a push-pull tone pot allows for coil-splitting, providing access to bright, glassy single-coil tones for even greater tonal flexibility. This feature makes the EC-256FM a versatile choice for players who need to switch from crunchy rock riffs to clean, articulate melodies with ease.
The playability of the EC-256FM is exceptional, thanks to its 22 extra-jumbo frets and a thin U-shaped mahogany neck, which offers a smooth, fast playing experience. The Jatoba fingerboard and contoured body provide comfort whether you're practicing for hours or performing on stage. With premium components like a Tune-O-Matic bridge and chrome hardware, this guitar ensures reliable performance and tuning stability.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body with a flamed maple top
- Set-neck construction for enhanced sustain
- Thin U-shaped mahogany neck with Jatoba fingerboard
- 22 extra-jumbo frets
- Dual ESP LH-150 humbucking pickups with push-pull coil-splitting
- Tune-O-Matic bridge and nickel hardware
- 24.75" scale length
- 3-way toggle switch with two volume and one tone control
Videos
Agufish
An Eclipse on a Budget!! || ESP LTD EC-256FM Demo/Review
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent playability with smooth neck and fretboard
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Impressive sustain and tone versatility with coil splitting
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Beautiful finish with unique wood grain patterns
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Comparable to high-end models like Gibson LP for a fraction of the cost
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Quality build with no fret buzz and well-set intonation
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Versatile sound, suitable for genres from metal to classic rock
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Great value for money, often praised as best in its price range
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Comfortable and ergonomic design, ideal for extended playing sessions
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Easy bridge adjustments for personal setup preferences
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Consistently praised for fit and finish, even compared to more expensive models
CONS
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Some users find the stock pickups lack range and may require upgrades
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Glossy neck finish can feel sticky during fast playing
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Inconsistent color representation between pictures and actual product
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Cheap plastic nut and tuners may need replacements for serious players
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about LTD EC-256FM.
Build quality
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The guitar is described as too light for some, impacting perceived quality and tone, leading one owner to switch to a Gibson.
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Features and functionality
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It's noted that the EC-256 lacks separate volume and tone controls for each pickup, which can be a limitation for some users.
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Coil tap feature helps manage high output on cleans, offering more versatility in sound.
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The EC-256FM features a set neck with either jatoba or pau ferro fretboard, offering a distinct feel compared to the bolt-on neck of the EC-200DX.
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Comparisons
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Owners compare the neck to Ibanez, noting the 42mm nut width makes it feel smaller, unlike the 43mm nut width on Ibanez models.
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The EC-256 is often compared to the Epiphone Les Paul, with owners noting superior playability and effortlessness in the LTD model.
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Maple top versions are perceived as brighter, whereas all-mahogany models are described as having a darker tone, though some argue this is largely cosmetic.
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The EC-200DX has a poplar body and rosewood fretboard, while the EC-256FM uses mahogany for the body, providing a different tonal foundation.
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Mods and upgrades
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The EC-256 is considered a good platform for upgrades, with emphasis on replacing plastic nuts for better performance.
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Swapping stock pickups for a Duncan '59 in the bridge and Jazz in the neck enhances tone significantly, especially for clean and slightly dirty settings.
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Grover 406c mini locking tuners can be directly swapped into the EC-256FM without drilling, improving tuning stability.
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Use cases and applications
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The lighter weight of the EC-256 is preferred by some players who find it more fitting and comfortable compared to heavier models.
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User experience
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating