LFL4BLKREDBS vs LMLB4BLKBLAST — Compare
ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin vs ESP LTD ML B-4 BLK BLAST bass
The FL-4 is a neck-through metal and progressive specialist with aggressive single-pickup output and a thinner neck, while the MLB-4 is a bolt-on jazz and funk workhorse with dual pickups and active EQ for tonal versatility. Choose the FL-4 if you play djent and metal; choose the MLB-4 if you need clarity and control across funk, jazz, and studio contexts.
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ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin | ESP LTD ML B-4 BLK BLAST bass | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,899.00 | $2,099.00 |
| 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 | Maple | Wenge |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | Bolt-On |
| Bridge | Hipshot | — |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin
- ✓ Neck-through construction maximizes sustain and resonance for extended metal riffing
- ✓ Single EMG 35P pickup delivers focused aggressive tone perfectly voiced for heavy genres
- ✓ Thinner neck profile (40mm nut) enables faster fretting for technical passages
- ✓ Lighter weight ergonomic design reduces fatigue during intense touring schedules
Why choose ESP LTD ML B-4 BLK BLAST bass
- ✓ Dual Nordstrand Big Splits pickups with individual volume controls for tonal shaping
- ✓ Three-band active EQ (ABQ-3MS) lets you dial in everything from jazz clarity to aggressive presence
- ✓ Wider 42mm nut and bolt-on neck provide rock-solid stability and easy serviceability
- ✓ 35-inch scale length and extra-jumbo frets suit both precise jazz articulation and modern funk slap
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for jazz?
The MLB-4 is purpose-built for jazz with its dual pickups, three-band EQ, and voicing designed for clarity and focused fundamentals. The FL-4's aggressive single-pickup character and djent-focused tone design make it less suited to traditional jazz articulation.
Which has easier maintenance and repair?
The MLB-4 uses bolt-on neck construction, making neck adjustments and replacement simpler. The FL-4's neck-through design is structurally superior but requires more involved repair work.
What is the main tone difference?
The FL-4 delivers a singular aggressive, punchy mid-range voice optimized for metal. The MLB-4 offers articulate clarity with dynamic range and frequency shaping through its dual pickups and active EQ, making it better for styles requiring tonal flexibility.
Which neck feels faster for technical playing?
The FL-4's extra-thin 40mm nut width and U contour create a slimmer profile suited to speed and precision. The MLB-4's wider 42mm nut prioritizes comfort and finger positioning but is slightly less streamlined for rapid fretting.