ESP LTD B-205DX Bass in Black Burst B-Stock
Share
Out of stock
- SKU
- LB205DXBLKB-B
This guitar ships without a case
Add the matching hard caseESP CBBASSFF Form-Fit Hardshell Case for B/D Series Basses (Case Only)
$229.00
Description
Sound & Tone
A reliable Sound & Tone summary isn't possible here: the supplied details don't contain usable specifications, and the two model references they mention (a right-handed black burst B-205DX and a left-handed ash/natural satin LB205SM) describe different instruments with different bodies and finishes. What can be said is that this is an ESP LTD B-series five-string bass, so it covers standard four-string range plus the extended low B. Confirm the exact model and its wood and pickup configuration before judging its tonal character.
ESP LTD B-205DX BLACK BURST Bass
The B-205DX is engineered for studio and live recording sessions where consistent tone and fast intonation matter. Built on a lightweight poplar body with roasted maple reinforcement, it delivers focused low-end response and midrange clarity that cuts through dense mixes. The thin U neck profile and 24 extra jumbo frets across a 400 mm fingerboard radius enable precise articulation for everything from steady groove work to complex melodic passages—ideal for tracking multiple takes or layering bass parts in the box.
Recording Foundation & Build
The 34 inch scale length and roasted maple bolt-on neck provide structural rigidity that translates into punchy attack and extended sustain—essential for capturing tight bass tracks and maintaining definition during overdubs. The rosewood fingerboard contributes warmth to the instrument's acoustic character while offering smooth, responsive feel under the fingers. The thin U profile sits naturally in the hand, enabling fluid technique across the entire fretboard range for dynamic tracking sessions.
Tracking & Tone Shaping
The LTD SB-5 pickups paired with an active 2-band EQ give you real-time tonal control during recording and mixing workflows. Dedicated volume, balance, bass, and treble controls let you dial in the exact character needed for each session—from aggressive presence to warm, compressed pocket. The LTD DB-5 fixed bridge ensures rock-solid intonation and sustain across takes, while LTD tuners maintain pitch stability through long recording days.
Key Features
- Poplar body
- Roasted maple bolt-on neck
- Rosewood fingerboard with 24 extra jumbo frets
- 400 mm fingerboard radius
- Thin U neck profile
- 34 inch scale length
- 5-string configuration
- LTD SB-5 pickups with active 2-band EQ
- Volume, balance, bass, and treble controls
- LTD DB-5 fixed bridge
- LTD tuners with black hardware
- Black Burst finish
The B-205DX BLACK BURST balances tonal versatility, construction quality, and playability in a package that performs reliably across genres and playing contexts.
As a B-Stock instrument it carries a minor factory cosmetic blemish — a small finish mark with no effect on playability, tone or structure — which is why it sells for less than a first-quality unit. The exact blemish varies from unit to unit, so it is not described or pictured here; photos show the model, not the individual unit. It is new, unplayed and covered by the full manufacturer warranty.
More Information
| Dexterity | Right handed |
|---|---|
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Condition | Refurbished |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea |
Reviews
About this B-Stock unit
| Condition | B-Stock - cosmetic blemish, fully functional |
|---|---|
| Price vs new | $120 under the new unit ($599) |
Prefer a brand-new one? ESP LTD B-205DX Bass in Black Burst is in the catalog at $599.
Specifications
| Body Wood | Poplar |
|---|---|
| Scale Length | 34" Scale |
| Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood |
| Fingerboard Radius | 400mm |
| Nut Width | 45mm |
| Neck Wood | Maple |
| Neck Profile | Thin U |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Models | ESP SB-5N (neck), ESP SB-5B (bridge) |
| Strings | 5 |
| Orientation | Right handed |
| Made In | South Korea |
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Funk, Progressive, Jazz, Studio Sessions, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate lows, tight attack, versatile mid-range, active tone shaping, punchy |
| Less specialized for | Country, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does B-Stock mean?
B-Stock means the bass is brand new and unplayed with full manufacturer warranty coverage, but it carries a minor factory cosmetic blemish—such as a small finish mark—that does not affect playability, tone, or structure. The exact blemish varies by unit and is not pictured here.
Is the thin U neck profile suitable for slap and fingerstyle playing?
Yes. The thin U profile is designed to sit naturally in the hand and encourage fluid technique across the entire fretboard. Combined with 24 extra jumbo frets and a 400 mm fingerboard radius, it accommodates both slap and fingerstyle approaches.
What genres does this bass work best in?
The B-205DX excels in funk, progressive, jazz, and studio session work. Its active 2-band EQ, tight attack, and versatile mid-range make it less suited for country and folk styles.
How does the active EQ system work?
The onboard 2-band active EQ provides dedicated bass and treble controls alongside volume and pickup balance, allowing you to shape tone flexibly for different playing contexts and mix demands without switching basses.
How does this compare to other five-string basses in this range?
The B-205DX shares similar positioning with the Ibanez SR505, Schecter Stiletto-5, and Lakland Skyline 55-01, offering intermediate-to-professional playability and active electronics; the roasted maple neck and thin U profile are ESP LTD hallmarks for comfort and stability.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
Compare With
Similar Guitars
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.