LB205SMFLNS vs LB205SMNS — Compare
ESP LTD B-205/SpaltMpl/Fretless/NS guitar vs ESP LTD B-205/SpaltedMaple/NS guitar
The key difference is that Product A is a fretless bass designed for expressive, sliding-based playing in jazz and funk, while Product B is a fretted five-string bass built for punchy, articulate tones across funk, progressive, and studio work. Choose the fretless (A) if you're committed to fretless technique; choose the fretted five-string (B) if you want versatility and upper-range access.
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Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-205/SpaltMpl/Fretless/NS guitar | ESP LTD B-205/SpaltedMaple/NS guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $699.00 | $699.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Modern Bass | Modern Bass |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 34" Scale |
| Strings | 5 | 5 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | P/J | P/J |
| Bridge | String-Through Body | String-Through Body |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD B-205/SpaltMpl/Fretless/NS guitar
- ✓ Fretless design enables smooth slides, bends, and expressive pitch control essential for jazz and soulful playing
- ✓ Rosewood fingerboard with 24 fret markers guides intonation without restricting expression
- ✓ Warm resonance and natural body character optimized for fretless tone shaping
Why choose ESP LTD B-205/SpaltedMaple/NS guitar
- ✓ Five-string configuration with 24 XJ frets provides extended upper-range access for progressive and modern styles
- ✓ String-thru-body ESP BB-605 bridge maximizes sustain and tonal transfer
- ✓ Punchy, tight low end and high output ideal for slap, funk, and gigging applications
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for a jazz player?
Product A is purpose-built for jazz with its fretless design and warm resonance that encourages smooth melodic expression. Product B is fretted and designed more for funk and progressive styles, making it less ideal for traditional jazz.
What's the difference in fret count and range?
Product A is fretless with 24 fret markers to guide placement without restricting expression. Product B has 24 XJ frets on a five-string configuration, providing extended upper-range access that a fretless four-string does not offer.
Which has better tone shaping control?
Both feature the same ESP ABQ-3 3-band active EQ with bass, mid, treble, balance, and volume controls. The tonal difference comes from their designs: Product A emphasizes warm natural resonance and articulation, while Product B delivers punchy, tight lows with high output through its string-thru-body bridge.
Is one easier to play if I'm transitioning from a standard bass?
Product B is better for players transitioning from four-string basses due to its fretted design and familiar playing mechanics, though its five-string configuration requires some adjustment. Product A requires committed fretless technique and intonation control from the start.