LB204DXREDB vs LKH202-U — Compare
ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst vs ESP LTD KH-202 Electric Guitar in Black Open Box
The B-204DX is a 4-string bass designed for rock, metal, funk, and studio work with active tone-shaping, while the KH-202 is a 6-string electric guitar built for metal and drop-tuned aggression with passive pickups and a Floyd Rose bridge. Choose the bass if you need low-end foundation; choose the guitar if you want lead lines and heavy riffing.
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ESP LTD KH-202 Electric Guitar in Black Open Box
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst | ESP LTD KH-202 Electric Guitar in Black Open Box | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.00 | $527.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD B Series Bass | LTD Kirk Hammett |
| Body | — | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | — | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Bridge | — | Floyd Rose Licensed |
| Year | Unknown | 2017 |
| Condition | New | Used |
Why choose ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst
- ✓ Active electronics with dedicated Bass/Treble controls for tonal sculpting
- ✓ 4-string simplicity ideal for funk, progressive, and studio precision work
- ✓ Roasted maple neck and thin U contour reduce fatigue during long sessions
- ✓ Extended low-end and punchy mids suit rock and metal foundations
Why choose ESP LTD KH-202 Electric Guitar in Black Open Box
- ✓ Floyd Rose Special bridge maintains tuning through aggressive bending and divebombs
- ✓ Extra-thin neck contour and compact ergonomics minimize hand fatigue
- ✓ Passive pickups deliver focused midrange and articulate highs for metal clarity
- ✓ 25.5" scale and drop-tuning capability suit modern metal and djent styles
Frequently asked questions
Are these instruments compatible for the same band setup?
Yes—the bass and guitar serve different roles in any band. The B-204DX provides low-end foundation and groove, while the KH-202 handles lead lines and heavy riffing. Together they cover the full frequency spectrum for rock and metal.
Which requires more maintenance?
The KH-202's Floyd Rose Special bridge requires periodic maintenance to keep the locking nut and whammy system responsive. The B-204DX's fixed bridge is simpler and more stable long-term.
Can beginners handle either of these?
The B-204DX welcomes beginners with its thin U neck and straightforward 4-string layout. The KH-202 is better suited to intermediate and advanced players due to its 25.5" scale, complex Floyd Rose system, and demanding metal techniques.
What's the key tonal difference?
The bass delivers punchy, balanced midrange with extended low-end and active sculpting; the guitar emphasizes focused midrange and aggressive highs with fixed passive tone. The bass is smooth and versatile; the guitar is tight and metal-focused.