LB204DXREDB vs LVIPER256STBC-B — Compare
ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst vs ESP LTD Viper-256 Guitar in See-Thru Black Cherry Finish B-Stock
The B-204DX is a 4-string bass guitar designed for low-end foundation and active tone-shaping in rock and metal contexts, while the Viper-256 is a 6-string electric guitar built for lead and rhythm work with passive humbucker versatility. Choose the bass if you need to anchor a band's bottom end; choose the guitar if you want a dedicated instrument for soloing, riffing, and metal/hard rock.
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ESP LTD Viper-256 Guitar in See-Thru Black Cherry Finish B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst | ESP LTD Viper-256 Guitar in See-Thru Black Cherry Finish B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.00 | $399.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | — | LTD Viper |
| Body Type | — | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Jatoba |
| Neck | Maple | Mahogany |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Set-Neck |
| Pickup Configuration | — | HH |
| Bridge | — | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar |
| Year | Unknown | 2021 |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD B-204DX Bass in Red Burst
- ✓ Active electronics with dedicated Bass/Treble controls for sculpted, punchy tone
- ✓ Extended low-end authority and balanced midrange ideal for rock and funk
- ✓ Thin U-neck and roasted maple for fast, comfortable bass playing
- ✓ Budget-friendly mid-tier pricing for a full 4-string bass platform
Why choose ESP LTD Viper-256 Guitar in See-Thru Black Cherry Finish B-Stock
- ✓ B-Stock pricing places it in budget tier despite premium set-neck construction
- ✓ Dual humbuckers with coil-split versatility from warm sustain to bright single-coil
- ✓ Set-neck design delivers superior resonance and sustain for lead work
- ✓ 24.75-inch scale and 350mm radius support both traditional and modern playing styles
Frequently asked questions
Are these two instruments comparable—should I choose between them?
No. The B-204DX is a 4-string bass guitar; the Viper-256 is a 6-string electric guitar. They serve fundamentally different roles in a band or studio setup. Choose the bass if you want to play bass lines; choose the guitar for lead and rhythm parts.
Which is better for metal?
Both excel in metal but in different ways. The B-204DX provides heavy, articulate low-end for tight bass riffing. The Viper-256 is purpose-built for metal with thick humbuckers, coil-split versatility, and set-neck sustain that excels at lead and rhythm guitar work.
What's the real difference between active and passive electronics?
The B-204DX's active circuit includes powered Bass and Treble controls for aggressive tone-shaping; the Viper-256's passive design relies on humbucker character and simple volume/tone knobs with coil-split, offering a more straightforward, naturally warm response.
Why is the Viper-256 listed as B-Stock?
B-Stock units have cosmetic or packaging variations only; all hardware, electronics, and playability specs are identical to new. This reduces price while maintaining full functionality and quality.