Familiar shape with a modern twist (ESP LTD EC-1000 QM)

Member Name: Matt1982

Product:	ESP LTD EC-1000 QM
Date:	14/02/09 (162 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Contoured body profile, branded hardware

Disadvantages: Some limitations with the EMG's in terms of versitility but Seymour Duncans are an option

LTD is the sub-brand of Japanese guitar company ESP.
Back in the 70's Japanese manufacturers began to make replica's of popular American guitars such as Strats and Les Pauls. They were so good that Fender and Gibson had to take out law suites to stop them. ESP were one of these Japanese brands and since then they have gone on to create their own shapes and have one of the most impressive artist rosters in the world. From Tom Araya from Slayer to Ronnie Wood from the Stones, ESP have a guitar for all styles.

The EC range is a single cut design with various woods and features depending on series. The 1000 is the premium model in the LTD range and features a mahogany body and neck, quilted / flamed or plain maple top, EMG or Seymour Duncan pickups, Earvana compensated nut, Sperzel Locking tuners, rosewood fretboard and Tone Pros bridge with abalone binding up the neck and around the headstock.
The build quality is great and demonstrates how far the Korean factories have come on. The frets are all level, crowned and shaped well with no sharp edges and the abalone inlays really set off the finish.
The controls are well laid out with a 3 way switch, one volume and two tone controls.
The tone of this guitar is aimed towards heavier styles and the EMG's have a great high output with definition, pronounced low and and screaming highs. The playability is great and the slim thin neck feels very comfortable. The radius of the fretboard is fairly flat so it will suite shredders as well as blues and rhythm players.
Overall this guitar offer Les Paul looks with a modern twist. The build quality is excellent and this is reflected well in the playability.

Summary: Mahogany body and neck, rosewood fretboard, Tone Pros bridge, Sperzel locking tuners, Earvana nut...