LAP4BKMBLKS-B vs LB206SMNS — Compare
ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock vs ESP LTD B-206/SpaltedMaple/NS guitar
The AP-4 is a focused 4-string metal machine with active electronics and aggressive clarity, while the B-206SM is a versatile 6-string with passive pickups and parametric EQ for broader sonic shaping. Choose the AP-4 for streamlined hard rock and metal punch; choose the B-206SM for players who want extended range, tonal flexibility, and multi-genre capability.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock | ESP LTD B-206/SpaltedMaple/NS guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.20 | $749.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Precision Bass | Modern Bass |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 35" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | P | P/J |
| Bridge | Hardtail | Fixed |
| Year | 2020 | Unknown |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock
- ✓ Single active EMG pickup delivers focused, punchy metal tone with minimal coloration
- ✓ Lighter weight and shorter 34" scale for aggressive playing comfort and speed
- ✓ B-stock pricing offers significant savings with cosmetic blemishes only
- ✓ Simpler signal path with volume-only control—no distractions from playing
Why choose ESP LTD B-206/SpaltedMaple/NS guitar
- ✓ Six-string extended range opens up progressive and funk possibilities unavailable on 4-string
- ✓ Parametric mid control on ABQ-3 EQ provides extensive tone-shaping for studio and live flexibility
- ✓ Longer 35" scale and 24 frets deliver extended range and refined intonation across wider span
- ✓ Passive pickup design paired with active EQ gives warm, organic foundation with surgical shaping
Frequently asked questions
Will the 4-string AP-4 or 6-string B-206SM work for funk?
The B-206SM is better suited for funk thanks to its six-string range, passive pickups that provide warmth, and parametric EQ for slap tone shaping. The AP-4's active electronics and metal voicing are less naturally aligned with funk sensibilities.
Which has easier string spacing for fingerstyle play?
The AP-4 offers a narrower 38mm nut suited to tighter, faster precision work. The B-206SM's 54mm nut provides wider spacing that many fingerstyle and slap players prefer for comfort and articulation.
What's the main tone difference between these two?
The AP-4 delivers aggressive clarity and punch through a single active EMG with direct signal path, ideal for cutting through rock and metal mixes. The B-206SM uses passive pickups feeding parametric active EQ, allowing deep tone-sculpting from warm and organic to punchy and modern.
Is the B-stock AP-4 a real discount or a risk?
B-stock means cosmetic damage only—sound and playability are uncompromised. If appearance matters less than value, the savings are genuine with no functional compromise.