ESP LTD Thinline TL-5 5 String Semi Hollow Electric Bass Natural B-Sto
Description
ESP LTD Thinline TL-5 5-String Semi-Hollow Electric Bass Natural
The ESP LTD Thinline TL-5 captures five-string bass with natural warmth and articulate definition, thanks to its chambered mahogany body and spruce top. The semi-hollow construction resonates with organic sustain that sits beautifully in dense mixes, while the thin U-shaped neck and 45mm nut width keep recording sessions comfortable across extended takes. This instrument tracks cleanly with clarity that cuts through without sacrificing low-end body—ideal for capturing punchy bass lines and complex harmonic playing in the studio.
Recording Playability & Response
The 34" scale with a thin U neck contour and roasted jatoba fingerboard (400mm radius, 22 J-style frets) minimizes finger fatigue during long session work and ensures consistent intonation across multiple takes. The Graphtech Nubone XB nut at 45mm width spaces five strings properly for clean articulation, while the set-neck construction delivers rock-solid sustain and coupling that translates directly to tape with tonal coherence and focus.
Tone Shaping & Mix Integration
The Fishman Sonicore active pickup paired with the Fishman TL-3 preamp and onboard tuner gives you real-time tone control to dial in your tracking sound without breaking session flow. The chambered mahogany body with spruce top resonates naturally while the active electronics provide punch and presence that anchors a mix, making this setup equally effective for isolated bass tracking and blended band recordings.
Key Features
- Set-neck construction with 3-piece mahogany neck
- Chambered mahogany body with spruce top
- 34" scale length
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard with 400mm radius and 22 J-style frets
- Thin U neck contour
- 45mm Graphtech Nubone XB nut
- Fishman Sonicore active pickup
- Fishman TL-3 preamp with onboard tuner
- Grover tuners with chrome hardware
- Jatoba bridge with molded saddle
- Natural finish
- Strung with D'Addario PBB170-5 (.045/.065/.085/.100/.130)
The combination of responsive playability, active tone shaping, and semi-hollow resonance makes the Thinline TL-5 a versatile five-string platform for tracking jazz, fusion, and contemporary bass styles with consistent sonic character.
This specific B-Stock unit features minor cosmetic imperfections consistent with warehouse handling—light blemishes and surface marks on the body and headstock that are completely superficial in nature. These marks are purely cosmetic and have absolutely zero impact on the playability, tone, or structural integrity of the bass. You're getting a premium ESP LTD Thinline TL-5 5-string semi-hollow electric bass at a significant B-Stock discount while maintaining full manufacturer warranty coverage.
More Information
| Dexterity | Right handed |
|---|---|
| Condition | Refurbished |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Thinline TL-5 is a versatile five-string semi-hollow bass engineered to sit clearly in a mix with its chambered mahogany body, spruce top, and Fishman Sonicore pickup paired with TL-3 active preamp. Its responsive 34-inch scale and thin U neck minimize finger fatigue during long recording hours, while natural semi-hollow resonance combines with active tone shaping for studio flexibility across jazz, fusion, and contemporary styles. This B-Stock example delivers premium recording-ready tone at a B-Stock price, with only superficial cosmetic marks.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Fusion
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Metal
- – Punk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this semi-hollow construction different from a solid-body five-string bass?
The chambered mahogany body with spruce top naturally projects warmth and sustain while remaining significantly lighter than a solid body, reducing fatigue during extended playing. The semi-hollow design couples responsiveness with the articulate low-end clarity and punchy attack needed to cut through a mix in live performance and studio settings.
Is this bass suitable for beginners, or is it geared toward more experienced players?
This bass is built for intermediate to advanced players and working professionals. The thin U-shaped neck contour and 45mm nut width are designed for comfort and speed, but the instrument's capabilities and active electronics are best utilized by players with established technique.
What does B-Stock mean for this particular unit?
This B-Stock Thinline TL-5 has minor cosmetic imperfections such as light blemishes and surface marks on the body and headstock from warehouse handling. These marks are purely superficial and have absolutely zero impact on playability, tone, or structural integrity, and the bass maintains full manufacturer warranty coverage.
What's included with this bass, and what are the specifications?
The bass arrives strung with D'Addario PBB170-5 strings (.045/.065/.085/.100/.130), featuring a 34-inch scale, roasted jatoba fingerboard with 400mm radius and 22 J-style frets, Fishman Sonicore pickup, Fishman TL-3 preamp with onboard tuner, and Grover chrome tuners. Set-neck construction and the 45mm Graphtech Nubone XB nut provide solid sustain and proper string spacing.
Which styles and genres is this bass best suited for?
The Thinline TL-5 excels in jazz, fusion, studio sessions, and contemporary live performance contexts where clarity, warmth, and articulate tone are priorities. Its active electronics and semi-hollow resonance are not optimized for metal or punk applications.