ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast B-Stock
Description
ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast
The MLB-4 is a precision-crafted 4-string bass engineered to deliver articulate, modern tone with the comfort and responsiveness serious recording demands. Its slim Extra Thin U neck contour and 35-inch scale length enable precise fingerwork and extended range tracking, while the swamp ash body and premium active electronics package ensure clarity and definition that sits naturally in dense mixes without sacrificing punch or presence.
Recording-Ready Build
This bass features a bolt-on neck construction with a substantial 5-piece wenge/purpleheart neck for tonal stability and consistent sustain across takes. The Macassar ebony fingerboard with 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets on a 400mm radius delivers repeatable intonation and durability through tracking sessions, while the 42mm nut width and Extra Thin U contour enable fast, accurate note articulation with minimal hand strain during extended studio work.
Tone & Session Electronics
Two Nordstrand Big Splits pickups capture articulate, punchy tone with exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum—critical for layering bass tracks or sitting through mix revisions. The ABQ-3 three-band EQ paired with individual volume controls grant extensive real-time sonic shaping in the studio, from focused fundamentals for tight rhythm parts to aggressive presence for lead bass work—all powered by active electronics for consistent output and reliable dynamic range across varying playing dynamics.
Key Features
- Swamp ash body with textured sandblasted Black Blast finish
- Black satin headstock with 6-bolt construction
- 5-piece wenge/purpleheart bolt-on neck
- Macassar ebony fingerboard
- 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets on 400mm radius
- Extra Thin U neck contour with 42mm nut width
- 35-inch scale length
- Two Nordstrand Big Splits active pickups
- ABQ-3 three-band EQ with individual pickup volume controls
- Gotoh tuners and Gotoh 404BO-4 hardtail bridge
- Offset mother-of-pearl dot inlays
- Metal dome knobs
This MLB-4 combines professional-grade construction with versatile active electronics, delivering the tonal flexibility and tracking reliability required for contemporary recording and production work.
This specific B-Stock unit features minor cosmetic imperfections typical of B-Stock inventory, with light marks on the body and hardware that are purely superficial and have absolutely zero impact on the playability, tone, or structural integrity of the bass. The MLB-4 performs identically to a new instrument, delivering the same professional-grade construction and response that ESP is known for. This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a premium Mike Leon signature bass at a significant B-Stock discount while maintaining full manufacturer warranty coverage.
More Information
| Condition | Refurbished |
|---|---|
| Dexterity | Right handed |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea |
Reviews
At a Glance
The MLB-4 is a versatile 4-string bass engineered for studio tracking and mixing across funk, progressive, and contemporary sessions, offering articulate tone and precise finger control for layered bass lines and solos. Its active Nordstrand Big Splits pickups and ABQ-3 three-band EQ provide extensive sonic shaping—from focused fundamentals to aggressive presence—allowing you to dial in exactly what your mix needs without re-recording. The 35-inch scale and Extra Thin U neck reduce hand fatigue during long tracking days, while the swamp ash body and premium electronics deliver consistent, professional output session after session.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Folk
- – Traditional Jazz
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does B-Stock mean for this bass?
B-Stock means this MLB-4 is fully functional and performs identically to a new unit, but carries minor cosmetic imperfections such as light marks on the body and hardware. These marks are purely superficial and have zero impact on playability, tone, or structural integrity. You receive the same manufacturer warranty coverage while saving significantly versus a new instrument.
Is this bass suitable for funk and progressive music?
Yes. The MLB-4 is purpose-built for funk and progressive styles, featuring Nordstrand Big Splits pickups that deliver articulate, punchy tone with tight low end and aggressive presence. The active ABQ-3 EQ and 35-inch scale give you dynamic range and precision finger control essential for complex bass lines and solos in these genres.
What neck features make this bass comfortable for long playing sessions?
The Extra Thin U contour neck combined with the 42mm nut width provide precise finger positioning and significantly reduce hand fatigue during extended play. The 5-piece wenge/purpleheart construction offers stability and tonal clarity, while the 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets on a 400mm radius fingerboard support smooth playability across the full range.
How much sonic shaping can I get from the active electronics?
The ABQ-3 three-band EQ with individual pickup volume controls grants extensive sonic shaping, allowing you to adjust from focused fundamentals to aggressive presence. Two Nordstrand Big Splits pickups powered by active electronics ensure consistent output and dynamic range across all your tonal adjustments.
How does the 35-inch scale length compare to standard bass scales?
The 35-inch scale is one inch longer than the industry-standard 34-inch Precision Bass scale, providing tighter string tension, extended low-end clarity, and increased dynamic range. This extra length is favored by players seeking modern articulation and precision in contemporary styles like funk and progressive.
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