LB1004MSNS-U vs LJC4DGMS — Compare
ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale Natural Satin Bass Guitar Open Box vs ESP LTD JC-4 John Campbell Dark Grey Metallic Satin
The B-1004 Multi-Scale is engineered for jazz, funk, and studio finesse with its optimized fretboard geometry and refined active EQ, while the JC-4 is built for metal and hard rock with a signature heavy player's design and powerful low-end focus. Choose the B-1004 for sophisticated tone-shaping in melodic genres; choose the JC-4 for aggressive, dynamic performance in heavier styles.
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ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale Natural Satin Bass Guitar Open Box
ESP LTD JC-4 John Campbell Dark Grey Metallic Satin
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale Natural Satin Bass Guitar Open Box | ESP LTD JC-4 John Campbell Dark Grey Metallic Satin | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,935.00 | $2,099.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD B Series Bass | LTD John Campbell |
| Body | Precision Bass | Jazz Bass |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 34" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | — | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Pau Ferro | Ebony |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | P/J | P/J |
| Bridge | — | Hipshot |
| Year | 2022 | 2023 |
| Condition | Used | New |
Why choose ESP LTD B-1004 Multi-Scale Natural Satin Bass Guitar Open Box
- ✓ Multi-scale design (36.25" to 34") optimizes tension and intonation across all strings
- ✓ Nordstrand Big Splits pickups with ABQ-3MS 3-band active EQ offer refined, flexible tone control
- ✓ Premium tonewoods (swamp ash, ziricote, wenge, pau ferro) and thin U-neck profile suit fast, precise studio and jazz work
Why choose ESP LTD JC-4 John Campbell Dark Grey Metallic Satin
- ✓ Signature John Campbell design delivers the aggressive, punchy low end essential for metal and hard rock
- ✓ Fishman Fluence SB-1 pickups with multiple voicings and single-coil mode toggle provide dynamic range for heavy styles
- ✓ Bolt-on construction with macassar ebony fingerboard and extra-jumbo frets supports powerful drop-tuning and live performance
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for drop tunings and heavy genres?
The JC-4 is purpose-built for metal and hard rock with a strong low-end focus and extra-jumbo frets that accommodate lower tunings. The B-1004's multi-scale design and refined active EQ are optimized for jazz and funk rather than extreme tuning applications.
How do the pickup systems differ?
The B-1004 uses Nordstrand Big Splits with a full 3-band ABQ-3MS active EQ for surgical tone control across bass, mid, and treble. The JC-4 uses Fishman Fluence SB-1 pickups with multiple voicings and a push-pull single-coil mode, prioritizing dynamic articulation and versatility for high-gain rigs.
Which is easier to play for intermediate players?
The B-1004's multi-scale geometry reduces the learning curve by optimizing string tension naturally. The JC-4 suits intermediate to advanced players equally well but is specifically voiced for heavy music rather than melodic styles.
What's the tonal character difference?
The B-1004 delivers punchy, warm, articulate mids with hum-cancelling clarity—ideal for intricate bass lines. The JC-4 prioritizes strong low end and crisp highs with balanced resonance for powerful, cutting tone in loud ensemble settings.