LKHVBLKSP-B0576 vs LKHVMGO-B0282 — Compare

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576 vs ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

Both are Kirk Hammett signature KH-V models with identical electronics and playability specs; the key difference is body shape and finish. Black Sparkle has a traditional cutaway body and costs more, while Metallic Gold features a V-shaped body, bridges with a locking TOM design, and sits at a mid-tier price.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576

$1,439.20
View ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

$1,439.20
View ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

Specs side by side

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282
Price$1,439.20$1,439.20
BrandESP LTDESP LTD
SeriesLTD Kirk HammettLTD Kirk Hammett
BodyExplorerExplorer
Body TypeSolidSolid
Scale25.5" Scale25.5" Scale
Strings66
Frets24 Frets24 Frets
FretboardEbonyEbony
NeckMapleMaple
BridgeFixedFixed
Year20232023
ConditionNewRefurbished

Why choose ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576

  • ✓ Classic cutaway body shape familiar to traditional electric guitar players
  • ✓ Black Sparkle finish with wave inlays creates distinctive stage presence
  • ✓ Graphite nut ensures tuning stability in demanding conditions

Why choose ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

  • ✓ V-shaped body designed for comfort during extended aggressive lead work
  • ✓ Tonepros locking TOM-style bridge with string-thru design adds tuning security
  • ✓ Lower price tier makes it more accessible for intermediate to advanced players
Bottom line: Choose Black Sparkle if you prefer traditional body ergonomics and want maximum visual impact despite the higher cost. Choose Metallic Gold if a V-shaped body suits your playing comfort better and you want the same high-end Kirk Hammett tone at a mid-tier price.

Frequently asked questions

Are the pickups and electronics identical between these two models?

Yes. Both feature EMG BoneBreaker ceramic bridge and alnico 5 neck humbuckers with active electronics, volume, tone, and three-way toggle controls. The tone profile and output are the same.

What is the main playability difference between them?

The Black Sparkle has a traditional cutaway body, while the Metallic Gold has a V-shaped body that some players find more ergonomic for aggressive lead work and extended sessions. Both have identical extra-thin U-shaped necks, 24 extra-jumbo frets, and 25.5 scale length.

Which bridge hardware is better for tuning stability?

The Metallic Gold's Tonepros locking TOM-style bridge with string-thru design is specifically designed for maximum tuning stability. The Black Sparkle uses LTD locking tuners and a graphite nut, which also provide excellent stability but through different hardware.

Which one is better for metal and hard rock?

Both are equally suited to metal, hard rock, and thrash metal. The choice comes down to body shape comfort and budget—neither has a tone advantage over the other.

✨
🎸

Welcome! Before we chat…

Drop your name and email so we can follow up if you reach us after hours.

We never share your info.

✨
🟢 Specialist connected