ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale Natural Satin Bass Guitar
Description
ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale Natural Satin Bass Guitar
The B-1004 Multi-Scale is engineered for studio recording and session work, delivering balanced string response and ergonomic comfort across extended tracking sessions. The multi-scale fret arrangement optimizes string tension across the fingerboard, allowing the lower strings a longer 36.25" scale while the higher strings benefit from a tighter 34" scale—resulting in consistently excellent tone and performance with minimal learning curve. Built for professional players, this bass combines premium tonewoods and high-end components to provide serious sonic flexibility and refined craftsmanship.
Construction & Materials for Recording
The B-1004 features a bolt-on swamp ash body topped with solid ziricote, an environmentally responsible tonewood prized for both aesthetics and acoustic properties. The neck is constructed from five-piece wenge and purple heart with a pau ferro fingerboard, providing stability, durability, and visual character that ages beautifully in use. This solid construction foundation captures articulate low-end definition and sustain essential for layered mix arrangements.
Tone & Active Electronics
A pair of Nordstrand Big Splits hum-cancelling pickups feeds into an active ABQ-3MS 3-band EQ system with dual mini-switches for real-time tone shaping during recording. The layout includes master volume, balance, and independent bass, treble, and mid controls, plus switchable mid-frequency selection (800Hz or 400Hz) and active/passive mode—enabling quick sonic adaptation from focused and punchy low-end to warm and resonant body across different song arrangements and production contexts.
Key Features
- 36.25" to 34" multi-scale design optimizes string tension and ergonomics
- Swamp ash body with solid ziricote top
- 5-piece wenge and purple heart neck with pau ferro fingerboard
- 24 XJ frets with 400mm radius
- Extra thin U neck contour for comfortable fast playability
- 42mm black bone nut
- Gotoh tuners and Hipshot Solo bridge
- Nordstrand Big Splits pickups (neck and bridge)
- Active ABQ-3MS 3-band EQ with dual mini-switches
- Natural satin finish
- Black hardware
- D'Addario XL165 strings (.045/.065/.085/.105)
The ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale delivers a recording-ready instrument that balances innovative ergonomic design with tonal sophistication and premium build quality for professional studio applications.
More Information
| Dexterity | Right handed |
|---|---|
| Condition | New |
| Country of Manufacture | Indonesia |
Reviews
At a Glance
The ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale delivers studio-grade clarity and tonal flexibility in a four-string format, with Nordstrand Big Splits and a 3-band active EQ that lets you sculpt punchy or resonant tones to fit any mix. The multi-scale geometry ensures even string response and minimal setup headaches, while the premium tonewoods and refined neck design make tracking smooth and repeatable across long sessions. Ideal for producers and engineers tracking funk, jazz, or contemporary pop where bass tone and articulation make or break the record.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Touring
Not the best pick for
- – Folk
- – Punk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is multi-scale, and will it feel awkward if I'm used to conventional basses?
Multi-scale means the lower strings use a longer 36.25" scale for tighter, punchier tone, while higher strings use a shorter 34" scale for easier playability. Most players find the ergonomic benefit and consistent string tension worth the minimal adjustment—the fret spacing change is subtle enough that muscle memory transfers quickly.
How much tonal range does the active EQ system provide?
The ABQ-3MS 3-band EQ offers master volume, balance, bass, treble, and mid controls, plus a switchable mid-frequency selection between 800Hz and 400Hz for different instrument characters. You can also flip to passive mode if you prefer unpowered tone, giving you articulate, focused, or warm voicings depending on session needs.
What genres is this bass best suited for?
The B-1004 is optimized for jazz, funk, and studio sessions where articulate midrange and tonal control are essential. The punchy, hum-cancelling character works less well in folk or punk contexts where simpler, darker tone is preferred.
What's included with the bass?
The bass ships with D'Addario XL165 strings (.045/.065/.085/.105), Gotoh tuners, a Hipshot Solo bridge, and a 42mm black bone nut. It does not include a case or cable.
How does the B-1004 compare to similar professional basses?
The B-1004 competes with the Ibanez SR1300, Yamaha BB1024X, and Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 in the pro four-string category. It stands out for its multi-scale design and switchable mid-frequency control, making it especially versatile for session work and touring where quick tonal adjustments and ergonomic comfort matter most.
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