LAA1BLKS-B vs LHORIZONCTM87BLKLH — Compare
ESP LTD AA-1 Alan Ashby Guitar Black Satin B-Stock with Case vs ESP LTD Horizon Custom '87 Lefty Guitar in Black
The AA-1 is a signature model with neck-through mahogany construction and active EMG electronics optimized for articulate, midrange-forward tones, while the Horizon Custom '87 Lefty features a neck-thru alder body with passive Seymour Duncan pickups and Floyd Rose tremolo for aggressive shredding with coil-split versatility. Choose the AA-1 for focused, high-clarity metal rhythm work; choose the Horizon Custom '87 Lefty if you need left-handed orientation, extreme tremolo control, and tonal flexibility for lead-heavy playing.
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ESP LTD AA-1 Alan Ashby Guitar Black Satin B-Stock with Case
ESP LTD Horizon Custom '87 Lefty Guitar in Black
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD AA-1 Alan Ashby Guitar Black Satin B-Stock with Case | ESP LTD Horizon Custom '87 Lefty Guitar in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,199.20 | $1,499.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | — | LTD H |
| Body | Single Cutaway | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Maple |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | — |
| Bridge | Fixed | Tremolo |
| Year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD AA-1 Alan Ashby Guitar Black Satin B-Stock with Case
- ✓ Neck-through mahogany construction delivers warm, resonant sustain ideal for heavy riffs
- ✓ Active EMG 81 electronics provide punchy, articulate high-output tone with powerful midrange
- ✓ Thin U-contour neck and 24.75-inch scale balance comfort with extended-range capability
- ✓ Black satin finish requires minimal maintenance compared to high-gloss alternatives
Why choose ESP LTD Horizon Custom '87 Lefty Guitar in Black
- ✓ Left-handed configuration serves players excluded by right-handed-only designs
- ✓ Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo and locking nut enable dive bombs and extreme pitch-bend techniques
- ✓ Dual Seymour Duncan pickups with coil-split on both volume and tone expand tonal range from humbucker power to single-coil clarity
- ✓ Extra-thin maple neck with extra-jumbo frets optimized for aggressive legato and fast shredding
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for metal rhythm playing?
The AA-1 edges ahead for rhythm due to its neck-through mahogany body and active EMG 81 electronics, which deliver tight sustain and powerful midrange clarity. The Horizon Custom '87 Lefty is equally capable but designed more toward lead-heavy and shredding applications.
Are there any significant tonal differences between active EMG and passive Seymour Duncan pickups?
Yes. The AA-1's active EMG 81 provides punchy, articulate high-output with aggressive clarity suited to modern metal. The Horizon's passive Seymour Duncans deliver a warmer, more dynamic voice with coil-split options for single-coil textures the EMG cannot match.
Which has more upper-fret access and playability for solos?
Both offer neck-thru construction and 24 frets with exceptional upper-fret access. The Horizon's extra-thin maple neck and extra-jumbo frets are marginally faster for extreme legato, while the AA-1's thin U-contour mahogany neck remains comfortable and responsive at any skill level.
Does the price difference justify the tremolo and left-handed build?
Both are mid-tier priced; the choice depends on need rather than value. If you are left-handed or rely on Floyd Rose tremolo for your style, the Horizon Custom '87 Lefty is essential. If you prefer simplicity, sustain, and active tone shaping, the AA-1 delivers equal value without tremolo complexity.