LEC256BLK-B vs LEC256CARS-B — Compare

ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar in Black Finish B-Stock vs ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Candy Apple Red Satin B-Stock

Both are the same EC-256 model with identical playability and electronics, differing only in finish color and cosmetic presentation. Choose based purely on aesthetic preference—black for a classic, no-nonsense look or candy apple red satin for visual standout.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar in Black Finish B-Stock

$479.20
View ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar in Black Finish B-Stock

ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Candy Apple Red Satin B-Stock

$479.20
View ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Candy Apple Red Satin B-Stock

Specs side by side

ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar in Black Finish B-StockESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Candy Apple Red Satin B-Stock
Price$479.20$479.20
BrandESP LTDESP LTD
SeriesLTD ECLTD EC
BodySingle CutawaySingle Cutaway
Body TypeSolidSolid
Scale24.75" Scale24.75" Scale
Strings66
Frets22 Frets22 Frets
FretboardRosewoodJatoba
NeckMahoganyMahogany
Pickup ConfigurationHHHH
BridgeFixedFixed
Year20202023
ConditionRefurbishedRefurbished

Why choose ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar in Black Finish B-Stock

  • Classic black finish suits any stage or studio setting
  • Professional, understated appearance
  • B-stock pricing on timeless design

Why choose ESP LTD EC-256 Guitar Candy Apple Red Satin B-Stock

  • Eye-catching candy apple red satin finish stands out visually
  • Satin sheen offers modern aesthetic appeal
  • Same great EC-256 performance at B-stock price
Bottom line: If finish doesn't matter, either delivers identical tone and playability at budget pricing. Pick the EC-256 in black for tradition or red satin for visual personality—the guitar itself performs the same way.

Frequently asked questions

Are these guitars tonally identical?

Yes. Both feature the same mahogany body and neck, ESP LH-150 pickups, roasted jatoba fingerboard, and electronics. Finish color does not affect tone.

What's the practical difference between these two?

Only the finish: black lacquer versus candy apple red satin. Hardware, electronics, neck shape, fret count, and scale length are identical on both.

Why is one described as 'candy apple red satin' and the other just 'black'?

Both are B-stock, meaning cosmetic differences from manufacturing. The red satin finish is a distinct color option; the black is the standard black finish. Neither affects playability or tone.

Which is better for rock and metal?

Both are equally suited. The EC-256 is designed for rock, metal, and hard rock regardless of finish. Your choice depends entirely on whether you prefer black or red aesthetically.

🎸

Welcome! Before we chat…

Drop your name and email so we can follow up if you reach us after hours.

We never share your info.

🟢 Specialist connected