LB204DXREDB vs LPHX204DXBLKB — Compare
ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst vs ESP LTD Phoenix-204DX Electric Guitar in Black Burst
Both are mid-tier active 4-string basses with similar ergonomics, but the B-204DX offers more tonal flexibility with dedicated Bass/Treble controls, while the Phoenix-204DX prioritizes articulation and cut with a tone-boost circuit optimized for live mix presence. Choose the B-204DX for studio work and tonal sculpting; choose the Phoenix-204DX for players who need punchy definition and reliability in live or high-output settings.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD Phoenix-204DX Electric Guitar in Black Burst
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst | ESP LTD Phoenix-204DX Electric Guitar in Black Burst | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.00 | $549.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD B Series Bass | LTD Phoenix |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 34" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst
- ✓ Dedicated Bass and Treble controls for precise tone-shaping
- ✓ 24 extra-jumbo frets for extended range and technical playing
- ✓ Balanced active tone suited to studio sessions and varied genres
- ✓ Burled poplar top adds visual character
Why choose ESP LTD Phoenix-204DX Electric Guitar in Black Burst
- ✓ Tone-boost circuit adds presence and cut specifically designed for mix clarity
- ✓ Lightweight poplar body reduces fatigue during extended live performance
- ✓ Humbucker pickups (SB-4B/SB-4N) deliver focused, punchy lows
- ✓ Designed for working professionals in live and high-output environments
Frequently asked questions
What is the key difference in electronics?
The B-204DX has Volume/Balance/Bass/Treble controls for full-range sculpting. The Phoenix-204DX has Volume/Balance/Tone Boost controls, where the tone boost specifically adds presence and cut without muddiness—optimized for sitting tight in a mix.
How do the fretboards differ?
The B-204DX has 24 extra-jumbo frets on a 400mm radius fingerboard, offering more range for higher playing. The Phoenix-204DX has 21 extra-jumbo frets on the same 400mm radius, still supporting smooth legato and aggressive articulation but with fewer extended notes.
Which is better for live performance versus studio?
The Phoenix-204DX is engineered for live work with its lightweight build and tone-boost presence circuit designed to cut through a mix. The B-204DX is more versatile for studio sessions where you may need to shape tone across a wider range without genre constraints.
Are the pickups the same?
Both use ESP SB-series pickups in active circuits, but the Phoenix-204DX specifically names them as humbuckers (SB-4B bridge, SB-4N neck) designed for focused punchy lows and defined mids, while the B-204DX pairs SB-4 pickups for balanced output.