ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast
Description
ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast
The MLB-4 is a precision-crafted 4-string bass engineered to capture articulate, modern tone with comfortable ergonomics for extended tracking sessions. Its slim Extra Thin U neck contour and 35-inch scale length enable fast, accurate playing across extended ranges, while the swamp ash body and premium active electronics package ensure clarity and responsiveness that translates clearly to tape and digital recorders in any studio context.
Design & Build Quality
This bass features bolt-on neck construction with a substantial 5-piece wenge/purpleheart neck for tonal stability and sustain. The Macassar ebony fingerboard accommodates 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets on a 400mm radius, providing durability and smooth playability across take after take, while the 42mm nut width and Extra Thin U contour support precise finger positioning and reduced hand fatigue during long recording days.
Tone & Recording Character
Two Nordstrand Big Splits pickups deliver articulate, punchy tone with exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum, capturing definition that sits well in dense mixes. The ABQ-3MS three-band EQ paired with individual volume controls for each pickup grant extensive sonic shaping, from focused fundamentals to aggressive presence—all powered by active electronics for consistent output, stable signal level, and dynamic range that holds up through editing and processing.
Key Features
- Swamp ash body with Black Blast finish
- 5-piece wenge/purpleheart neck with bolt-on construction
- Macassar ebony fingerboard
- 400mm fingerboard radius
- Extra Thin U neck contour
- 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets
- 35-inch scale length
- 42mm nut width
- Gotoh tuners and Gotoh 404BO-4 hardtail bridge
- Two Nordstrand Big Splits pickups
- Individual pickup volume controls with ABQ-3MS three-band EQ
- Includes B Bass form-fit case and D'Addario XL165 strings
This MLB-4 combines professional-grade construction with versatile active electronics, delivering studio-ready tone across contemporary musical styles and session demands.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Dexterity | Right handed |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea |
Reviews
At a Glance
The ESP LTD MLB-4 is a professional-grade 4-string engineered for studio tracking and mixing sessions where articulate bass tone and harmonic clarity matter. Dual Nordstrand Big Splits pickups combined with an active ABQ-3MS three-band EQ let you shape everything from tight, focused lows to aggressive presence, giving you flexibility across funk, jazz, and contemporary production work. The 35-inch scale and responsive active electronics ensure consistent, dynamic performance across multiple takes and a wide frequency spectrum.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Touring
Not the best pick for
- – Folk
- – Country
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the neck feel and comfort like on this bass?
The MLB-4 features an Extra Thin U neck contour with a 42mm nut width and 400mm fingerboard radius, designed to reduce hand fatigue and support precise finger positioning. The slim profile and extended 35-inch scale length make it comfortable for extended playing sessions and fast movement across the neck.
What tone should I expect from the Nordstrand Big Splits pickups?
The two Nordstrand Big Splits deliver articulate, punchy tone with exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum, supported by individual pickup volume controls and an active three-band EQ. You can dial in everything from focused fundamentals to aggressive presence depending on your mix and playing style.
Is this bass suitable for touring and live use?
Yes. The MLB-4 combines a stable 5-piece wenge/purpleheart neck, bolt-on construction, and professional-grade hardware including Gotoh tuners and a hardtail bridge—all built for the demands of touring and consistent performance. It ships with a B Bass form-fit case for road protection.
What genres is this bass designed for?
The MLB-4 is best suited for funk, jazz, studio sessions, and touring contexts where articulate tone and dynamic range are priorities. Its aggressive presence and frequency clarity make it less ideal for folk and country styles.
What is included in the box?
The MLB-4 comes with a B Bass form-fit case and a set of D'Addario XL165 strings.