LEC256BLK vs LH200FMDBSB-B — Compare

ESP LTD EC-256/BLK guitar vs ESP LTD H-200FM Electric Guitar Dark Brown Sunburst B Stock

The EC-256 is a classic single-cutaway with a shorter 24.75" scale ideal for traditional rock and metal, while the H-200FM is a semi-hollow-body design with a longer 25.5" scale and flamed maple top that offers greater sustain and visual appeal—plus it's a B stock discount unit. Choose the EC-256 for straightforward, budget-conscious rock/metal work; pick the H-200FM if you want enhanced tonal depth, extra fret real estate, and don't mind cosmetic blemishes.

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/BLK guitar

$599.00
View ESP LTD EC-256/BLK guitar

ESP LTD H-200FM Electric Guitar Dark Brown Sunburst B Stock

$479.20
View ESP LTD H-200FM Electric Guitar Dark Brown Sunburst B Stock

Specs side by side

ESP LTD EC-256/BLK guitarESP LTD H-200FM Electric Guitar Dark Brown Sunburst B Stock
Price$599.00$479.20
BrandESP LTDESP LTD
SeriesLTD ECLTD H
BodySingle Cutaway
Body TypeSolidSolid
Scale24.75" Scale
Strings66
Frets22 Frets
FretboardRosewoodJatoba
NeckMahogany
Neck ConstructionSet-Neck
Pickup ConfigurationHH
BridgeTune-O-Matic / StopbarFixed
Year20202018
ConditionNewRefurbished

Why choose ESP LTD EC-256/BLK guitar

  • Shorter 24.75" scale familiar to players used to classic solidbodies
  • Simple, no-frills design focused on core rock and metal tone
  • Solid mahogany construction with warm, responsive character
  • Mid-tier pricing without B stock cosmetic concerns

Why choose ESP LTD H-200FM Electric Guitar Dark Brown Sunburst B Stock

  • B stock pricing offers significant savings with full warranty
  • Longer 25.5" scale and 24 extra-jumbo frets for expansive lead work
  • Flamed maple top adds visual distinction and contributes to woody sustain
  • Semi-hollow construction delivers harmonic depth and enhanced resonance
Bottom line: Buy the EC-256 if you want a clean, no-compromise rock machine at full price. Buy the H-200FM if you prioritize tonal depth, extended fretboard range, and can accept cosmetic blemishes in exchange for B stock savings.

Frequently asked questions

What's the main tonal difference between these two?

The EC-256 delivers warm, articulate punch with mahogany body and neck. The H-200FM adds woody sustain and harmonic richness from its semi-hollow construction and flamed maple top, making it slightly darker and more resonant overall.

Which is better for lead playing?

The H-200FM's longer 25.5" scale and 24 extra-jumbo frets give more room for expressive lead work, while the EC-256's shorter 24.75" scale suits faster, tighter playing. Both are capable; it depends on your hand size and preference.

What does B stock mean for the H-200FM?

B stock means the guitar has cosmetic blemishes only—no structural or playability damage. Full sound integrity and a 90-day warranty are guaranteed; you're paying less for appearance only.

Are the pickups and electronics the same?

Both use ESP Designed humbucking pickups and passive electronics with volume, tone (push/pull), and 3-way toggle. The H-200FM specifies LH-150N neck and LH-150B bridge; the EC-256 lists the same pair in its electronics section for identical tonal control.

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