EFRXCTMSTBLKSB-2-U vs EKH3-U — Compare
ESP FRX Kiso Custom Guitar See Thru Black Sunburst Open Box vs ESP KH-3 Spider Kirk Hammett 30th Anniversary Guitar Open Box
The ESP FRX Kiso Custom is a versatile workhorse handling hard rock through progressive metal with balanced tone and set-thru construction, while the ESP KH-3 Spider is purpose-built for thrash and extreme metal with scalloped frets and neck-thru sustain optimized for speed and aggression. Choose the FRX for studio flexibility and classic rock compatibility; choose the KH-3 if metal speed and whammy bar abuse are your priority.
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ESP FRX Kiso Custom Guitar See Thru Black Sunburst Open Box
ESP KH-3 Spider Kirk Hammett 30th Anniversary Guitar Open Box
Specs side by side
| ESP FRX Kiso Custom Guitar See Thru Black Sunburst Open Box | ESP KH-3 Spider Kirk Hammett 30th Anniversary Guitar Open Box | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $4,839.00 | $4,839.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP Original | ESP Kirk Hammett |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Other |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | Active HH |
| Bridge | Tremolo | Floyd Rose Original |
| Year | 2013 | 2022 |
| Condition | Used | Used |
Why choose ESP FRX Kiso Custom Guitar See Thru Black Sunburst Open Box
- ✓ Set-thru construction balances sustain with tonal warmth and resonance
- ✓ Longer 25.5" scale suits standard tunings and classic rock applications
- ✓ Seymour Duncan pickup pairing handles both clean rhythm and high-gain lead work
- ✓ 305mm radius fingerboard accommodates open chords and aggressive bends equally
Why choose ESP KH-3 Spider Kirk Hammett 30th Anniversary Guitar Open Box
- ✓ Scalloped upper frets eliminate friction for extreme speed and tapping techniques
- ✓ Neck-thru-body construction maximizes sustain through the full frequency range
- ✓ EMG Bonebreaker active pickups deliver high-output aggression essential for modern thrash metal
- ✓ Shorter 24.75" scale and extra-thin neck profile designed specifically for rapid position changes
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for standard tuning and classic rock?
The FRX Kiso Custom's 25.5" scale and balanced Seymour Duncan pickups are optimized for standard tunings and classic rock tones. The KH-3's 24.75" scale and scalloped frets favor drop tunings and thrash metal techniques.
What's the main construction difference and how does it affect tone?
The FRX uses set-thru construction, which balances sustain with warm, resonant tone. The KH-3 uses full neck-thru-body construction for maximum sustain and clarity across extreme high-gain passages, favoring aggressive articulation over warmth.
Which pickup system is more versatile?
The FRX's Seymour Duncan '59 and Distortion pair handles both rhythmic and lead work across multiple genres. The KH-3's EMG Bonebreaker active set is purpose-built for high-output metal aggression and lacks the dynamic range for blues or jazz applications.
Are the scalloped frets on the KH-3 necessary?
Scalloped frets (positions 17–24) reduce friction for speed techniques and tapping but require adjusted technique for standard vibrato. The FRX's traditional frets offer more forgiving playability for mixed playing styles.