LEC401BLK-B vs LECBKMBLKS-B — Compare
ESP LTD EC-401 Black Guitar B-Stock vs ESP LTD EC-Black Metal Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock
The EC-401 features dual EMG pickups (60/81) with independent volume controls for tonal versatility, while the EC-Black Metal uses a single Seymour Duncan Black Winter pickup optimized for aggressive metal clarity. The EC-401 suits players who want pickup switching flexibility across multiple genres; the EC-Black Metal is purpose-built for metal and djent players who prioritize sustained aggression and don't need dual-pickup blending.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD EC-Black Metal Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD EC-401 Black Guitar B-Stock | ESP LTD EC-Black Metal Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.20 | $799.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD EC | LTD Black Metal |
| Body | — | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Ebony |
| Neck | — | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | — | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | 2021 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD EC-401 Black Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Dual EMG pickups with separate volume controls for neck/bridge blending and tonal variety
- ✓ Four-way switching flexibility (volume/volume/tone/toggle) for diverse high-gain and clean applications
- ✓ TOM bridge and Grover tuners offer additional tuning stability and traditional hardware feel
Why choose ESP LTD EC-Black Metal Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock
- ✓ Single Seymour Duncan Black Winter pickup optimized for metal articulation and aggressive output
- ✓ Macassar Ebony fingerboard resists fret wear better than Pau Ferro for longevity
- ✓ Glow-in-the-dark fretboard markers aid navigation during live performances and low-light settings
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either guitar for standard rock and hard rock, or are they too specialized?
Both are excellent for rock and hard rock. The EC-401's dual EMG setup provides more tonal options across cleaner and overdriven tones. The EC-Black Metal's single pickup is darker and more aggressive, tilting harder toward metal but still capable of rock applications.
What's the practical difference between EMG and Seymour Duncan pickups for metal?
EMG 81s are known for aggressive output and noise rejection in high-gain contexts. The Seymour Duncan Black Winter is designed specifically for metal with emphasis on sustain and clarity through distortion. Both excel at metal; EMGs offer more flexibility across gain levels, while the Black Winter excels in sustained, saturated applications.
Are these B-stock guitars the same quality as new ones?
Yes. B-stock means they are new or near-new but may have cosmetic imperfections or packaging damage. Both offer the same professional build quality and active electronics as new units at a reduced price.
Which fingerboard is better for durability and playability?
Macassar Ebony (EC-Black Metal) resists fret wear more than Pau Ferro (EC-401), making it better long-term for aggressive playing. Both offer fast playability; the choice comes down to maintenance preference and durability expectations.