ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin
Description
ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin
The FL-4 is built for touring and studio work, delivering a fast, modern playing experience with its extra-thin U-contoured neck and lightweight ergonomic profile. Designed in collaboration with Fred Leclercq, this four-string bass combines aggressive aesthetics with refined playability for session and touring musicians. The neck-through construction and premium tonewoods ensure stability and resonance across extended playing sessions.
Playability & Feel
The extra-thin U neck contour paired with a 400mm fingerboard radius and 24 XJ stainless steel frets creates a fast, responsive playing surface that rewards both precision and speed. The 40mm molded nut maintains proper string spacing while keeping the instrument comfortable for extended use.
Tone & Electronics
An EMG 35P bridge pickup delivers the aggressive, articulate output needed to cut through a live mix, while the neck-through alder body and 5-piece maple/purpleheart neck provide a solid harmonic foundation. The Hipshot A-style bridge and Grover Mini tuners ensure reliable tuning stability and precise intonation adjustment—essential for the road.
Key Features
- Neck-through construction for maximum sustain and body resonance
- 34" scale length — standard four-string configuration
- Alder body with black red burst satin finish
- 5-piece maple/purpleheart neck with extra-thin U contour
- Macassar ebony fingerboard with black binding and red offset dot inlays
- 24 XJ stainless steel frets with 400mm radius
- 40mm molded nut
- EMG 35P bridge pickup
- Hipshot A-style bridge
- Grover Mini tuning machines
- Black hardware throughout
- Includes deluxe ESP hardshell case
This instrument is engineered for gigging musicians and collectors who demand professional-grade components, modern ergonomics, and the tonal character to command the stage.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Dexterity | Right handed |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea |
Reviews
At a Glance
The ESP LTD FL-4 is a neck-through, four-string bass built for metal, progressive, and djent players who need aggressive articulation and fast playability on stage. Its extra-thin U-contoured neck, 24 frets, and EMG 35P pickup deliver punchy mids and tight lows that cut through a live mix, while neck-through construction and premium hardware (Hipshot bridge, Grover tuners) provide the stability and intonation reliability touring musicians depend on. Choose this bass if you want a professional-grade instrument that rewards precision playing and sits heavy in heavy music.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Djent
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this bass suitable for beginners?
No. The FL-4 is designed for intermediate, advanced, and professional players. Its extra-thin neck contour, 24-fret layout, and aggressive tone character are optimized for metal, progressive, and djent styles rather than foundational jazz or folk playing.
What pickup does it have and how does it sound?
The FL-4 features an EMG 35P bridge pickup paired with alder body and 5-piece maple/purpleheart neck, delivering aggressive, articulate output with punchy mids and a tight low end—ideal for cutting through heavy music in live and studio settings.
What neck profile and fretboard specifications should I expect?
The bass has an extra-thin U-contoured neck with a 400mm fingerboard radius, 24 XJ stainless steel frets, and a Macassar ebony fingerboard with black binding and red offset dot inlays. The 40mm molded nut maintains proper string spacing for comfortable extended playing.
Does it come with a case?
Yes, the FL-4 includes a deluxe ESP hardshell case for protection and transport.
What hardware does it use for tuning and bridging?
The bass features a Hipshot A-style bridge for precise intonation adjustment and Grover Mini tuning machines for reliable tuning stability. All hardware is black to match the instrument's aesthetic.