LB204SMNSLH vs LTA204FRXBLKS — Compare
ESP LTD B-204SM Left-Handed Bass in Natural Satin vs ESP LTD TA-204 Frx Bass in Black Satin
The B-204/SMNS/LH is a versatile left-handed bass with active EQ and warm tone suited for rock, metal, jazz, and alternative; the TA-204-FRX/BLKS is a signature thrash-metal instrument with passive electronics, extended 35" scale, and aggressive focus for drop tunings and heavy styles. Choose the B-204 for tonal flexibility across genres, or the TA-204 for raw, focused heaviness and extended range.
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ESP LTD B-204SM Left-Handed Bass in Natural Satin
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-204SM Left-Handed Bass in Natural Satin | ESP LTD TA-204 Frx Bass in Black Satin | |
|---|---|---|
| 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-204SM Left-Handed Bass in Natural Satin
- ✓ Active 3-band EQ allows serious tonal shaping for multiple genres
- ✓ Left-handed configuration readily available
- ✓ Warm lows and articulate midrange bite suit rock, metal, jazz, and alternative
- ✓ 34" scale more comfortable for average hand sizes
Why choose ESP LTD TA-204 Frx Bass in Black Satin
- ✓ Extended 35" scale maximizes sustain and low-end reach for drop tunings
- ✓ Passive electronics provide uncolored, straightforward tone without battery concerns
- ✓ Extra-jumbo frets and thin neck enable rapid position shifts
- ✓ Tom Araya signature model optimized specifically for thrash metal and aggressive playing
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for jazz?
The B-204/SMNS/LH is specifically designed for jazz alongside rock and metal, with warm lows and active EQ to shape tone. The TA-204-FRX/BLKS is not recommended for jazz; it's built for metal and thrash.
What's the key difference in scale length and why does it matter?
The B-204 uses a standard 34" scale, while the TA-204 extends to 35". The longer scale on the TA-204 provides greater sustain and deeper low-end for extended-range and drop-tuning applications, but requires more hand reach.
How do the electronics differ between these two?
The B-204 features active 3-band EQ (bass, mid, treble boost/cut) for flexible tone shaping, while the TA-204 uses passive Volume/Balance/Tone controls for straightforward, uncolored performance. Active requires battery maintenance; passive does not.
Is the B-204 available for left-handed players?
Yes, the B-204/SMNS/LH is explicitly a left-handed model. The TA-204-FRX/BLKS description does not indicate a left-handed option.