LB204SMNSLH vs LTA204FRXBLKS — Compare
ESP LTD B-204/SMNS/LH bass vs ESP LTD TA-204-FRX/BLKS bass
The B-204SM is a versatile all-rounder with active EQ for tonal shaping across multiple genres, while the TA-204 FRX is a metal-focused workhorse with a longer 35-inch scale and passive electronics for aggressive, no-nonsense clarity. Choose the B-204SM if you need genre flexibility and hands-on tone control; pick the TA-204 FRX if metal and hard rock are your primary focus and you prefer simpler, straightforward electronics.
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Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-204/SMNS/LH bass | ESP LTD TA-204-FRX/BLKS bass | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $699.00 | $699.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Precision Bass | Modern Bass |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 35" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Jatoba |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | P/J | P/J |
| Bridge | String-Through Body | — |
| Year | 2023 | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD B-204/SMNS/LH bass
- ✓ Active 3-band EQ with boost/cut control for serious tonal flexibility
- ✓ Shorter 34-inch scale suits a wider range of playing styles and hand sizes
- ✓ Works equally well in rock, metal, jazz, and alternative settings
- ✓ Passive/active hybrid system balances tone-shaping with lower battery demand
Why choose ESP LTD TA-204-FRX/BLKS bass
- ✓ Extended 35-inch scale delivers extended range and aggressive low-end intensity
- ✓ Extra-jumbo frets with thin neck profile optimized for fast, aggressive technique
- ✓ Passive electronics eliminate battery concerns and provide direct signal transfer
- ✓ Lightweight basswood body and focused low end cut through dense mixes
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for metal?
Both handle metal well, but the TA-204 FRX is specifically voiced for metal with its extended 35-inch scale, aggressive sustain, and focused low end. The B-204SM also excels in metal but shines more in mixed-genre contexts thanks to its active EQ.
Can I play jazz on either of these?
The B-204SM is listed as suitable for jazz and features warm lows with clean definition. The TA-204 FRX is not recommended for jazz, as it's designed for metal aggression with no-frills clarity rather than tonal subtlety.
What's the main electronics difference?
The B-204SM has active 3-band EQ (bass, mid, treble boost/cut) with balance adjustment, letting you shape tone extensively. The TA-204 FRX uses passive-only electronics with simple Volume/Balance/Tone controls, eliminating batteries and offering direct, uncolored signal.
Why the different scale lengths?
The B-204SM uses the standard 34-inch scale for versatility across genres. The TA-204 FRX's extended 35-inch scale provides deeper low-end extension and clarity for aggressive metal playing styles.