LFL4BLKREDBS-B vs LMLB4BLKBLAST-B — Compare
ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin B-Stock vs ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast B-Stock
The FL-4 is a neck-thru metal specialist with a 34" scale and single aggressive EMG pickup optimized for drop tunings and technical thrash, while the MLB-4 is a versatile 35" bolt-on platform with dual Nordstrand pickups and three-band EQ suited to funk, progressive, and studio work. Choose the FL-4 if you live in extreme tunings and metal; choose the MLB-4 if you need tonal flexibility across multiple genres.
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ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin B-Stock
ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin B-Stock | ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,519.20 | $1,679.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 35" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Unknown / Other | Unknown / Other |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | Bolt-On |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin B-Stock
- ✓ Neck-thru construction ensures maximum sustain and tonal transfer for metal clarity
- ✓ Extra-thin neck with aggressive body contours designed specifically for rapid position shifts and technical passages
- ✓ Single EMG 35P humbucker delivers punchy, high-output aggression that cuts through dense metal mixes
- ✓ 34" scale optimizes tuning stability in drop-D and lower tuning contexts
Why choose ESP LTD MLB-4 Mike Leon Bass in Black Blast B-Stock
- ✓ Two Nordstrand Big Splits pickups with three-band ABQ-3 EQ provide extensive sonic shaping for multiple genres
- ✓ 35" scale supports broader frequency response and extended range versatility
- ✓ Bolt-on neck construction offers lighter weight and familiar modern playability
- ✓ 42mm nut width and dual volume controls enable articulate finger positioning and dynamic performance control
Frequently asked questions
Which bass handles lower tunings better?
The FL-4's 34" scale and neck-thru construction are engineered specifically for drop tunings common in metal, providing tighter low-end response and maximum sustain in extreme tuning contexts. The MLB-4's 35" scale supports extended range but is voiced more for clarity across multiple genres rather than low-end aggression.
Which has more tonal flexibility?
The MLB-4 offers significantly more tonal shaping with two pickups, individual volume controls, and a three-band active EQ, making it suited to funk, progressive, and studio work. The FL-4 uses a single aggressive EMG pickup with volume-only control, designed for focused metal tone rather than broad sonic versatility.
How do the neck constructions differ in feel and maintenance?
The FL-4's neck-thru design maximizes sustain and offers seamless upper-fret access but cannot be replaced if damaged. The MLB-4's bolt-on design is lighter and more conventional to repair or replace, making it practical for touring and session work.
Which is better for finger technique and comfort over long sessions?
Both feature Extra Thin U contours and 24 extra-jumbo frets on 400mm radius fingerboards. The FL-4 prioritizes speed and extended technique with an aggressive body cutout; the MLB-4's slightly wider 42mm nut and extra inch of scale length may suit players with larger hands or those transitioning between many instruments.