LKH602 vs LM1000HTBPBLKFD — Compare
ESP LTD KH-602 Electric Guitar in Black vs ESP LTD M-1000HT Electric Guitar Black Fade
The KH-602 is a signature model optimized for Kirk Hammett's aggressive lead style with Floyd Rose tremolo and EMG pickups, while the M-1000HT is a versatile workhorse with active Fishman Fluence pickups and direct mounting for studio and live flexibility. Choose the KH-602 if you prioritize speed-focused lead work and expressive tremolo effects; choose the M-1000HT if you want noise-free active electronics and balanced lead-rhythm capability across multiple settings.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD M-1000HT Electric Guitar Black Fade
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD KH-602 Electric Guitar in Black | ESP LTD M-1000HT Electric Guitar Black Fade | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,399.00 | $1,399.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD Kirk Hammett | LTD M |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25.5" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Pickup Configuration | Active HH | HH |
| Bridge | Floyd Rose Licensed | Hipshot |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD KH-602 Electric Guitar in Black
- ✓ Floyd Rose 1000 Series tremolo for expressive pitch manipulation and dive bombs
- ✓ EMG passive pickups deliver iconic high-output aggression with searing treble
- ✓ Extra-thin U-shaped neck and 42mm nut width optimized for lead velocity
- ✓ Locking nut maintains tuning stability during intense technical sessions
Why choose ESP LTD M-1000HT Electric Guitar Black Fade
- ✓ Active Fishman Fluence pickups eliminate noise and provide studio-grade clarity
- ✓ Direct-mounted pickups reduce microphonics for clean signal transfer
- ✓ Burled poplar top adds tonal depth and sustain across lead and rhythm work
- ✓ 43mm nut width and balanced geometry suit both lead and rhythm playing equally
Frequently asked questions
What's the main pickup difference between these two?
The KH-602 uses passive EMG 60/81 humbuckers tuned for classic high-output metal tone. The M-1000HT uses active Fishman Fluence Modern pickups with onboard electronics that eliminate noise and offer greater clarity, making them better suited for studio recording and mixed-genre settings.
Does one guitar have more tuning stability?
The KH-602 includes a locking nut paired with Floyd Rose 1000 Series tremolo, designed specifically for aggressive bending and whammy-bar work. The M-1000HT omits both, prioritizing tuning simplicity and comfort for players who don't need tremolo effects.
Which is better for rhythm and lead playing?
The M-1000HT's balanced geometry and 43mm nut width make it equally competent for both rhythm and lead work. The KH-602's 42mm nut width and extra-thin neck profile favor lead speed and technique but don't exclude rhythm play.
Are these guitars suitable for jazz or cleaner genres?
Both are listed as not ideal for traditional jazz. However, the M-1000HT's articulate cleans and Fishman pickups offer more tonal flexibility toward brighter, cleaner sounds if needed. The KH-602 is firmly built for aggressive metal tones and less adaptable to jazz application.