LAP4BKMBLKS-B vs LSURVEYOR87RBCRK — Compare
ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock vs ESP LTD Surveyor '87 Electric Bass Rainbow Crackle
The AP-4 is a modern metal-focused instrument with active electronics and aggressive single-pickup voicing, while the Surveyor '87 is a versatile vintage-styled bass with passive dual pickups suited for funk, jazz, and rock. Choose the AP-4 if you play metal and want punchy clarity; choose the Surveyor '87 if you need warmth and tonal flexibility across multiple genres.
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ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock
ESP LTD Surveyor '87 Electric Bass Rainbow Crackle
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock | ESP LTD Surveyor '87 Electric Bass Rainbow Crackle | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.20 | $1,099.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Precision Bass | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Pickup Configuration | P | — |
| Bridge | Hardtail | — |
| Year | 2020 | 2021 |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock
- ✓ Active EMG 35CS pickup delivers aggressive clarity and controlled low-end perfect for metal
- ✓ B-stock pricing offers significant savings with no sonic compromise
- ✓ Thin U neck and 21 XJ frets optimized for speed and precision technique
- ✓ Direct signal path with volume-only control keeps tone transparent and cutting
Why choose ESP LTD Surveyor '87 Electric Bass Rainbow Crackle
- ✓ Dual Seymour Duncan Vintage pickups provide warm, full-bodied tone across funk, jazz, and rock
- ✓ Passive electronics with Volume/Balance/Tone controls offer intuitive tone shaping
- ✓ Vintage-voiced character cuts through without harshness in band contexts
- ✓ Highly versatile across genres beyond metal, making it ideal for session and gigging work
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for metal?
The AP-4 is purpose-built for metal with its active EMG pickup, straightforward volume control, and bright articulate tone designed for aggressive clarity. The Surveyor '87's passive vintage voicing is explicitly not ideal for metal and lacks the punch needed for that genre.
Which is more versatile across musical styles?
The Surveyor '87 covers funk, jazz, rock, and studio work with its dual-pickup passive design and tone controls. The AP-4 is optimized for metal and hard rock; it's not recommended for jazz or folk playing.
What's the key difference in electronics?
The AP-4 uses active electronics with a single EMG 35CS pickup and volume-only control for maximum clarity and directness. The Surveyor '87 uses passive electronics with dual Seymour Duncan pickups and full Volume/Balance/Tone controls for vintage tone shaping.
Is the B-stock AP-4 a good value?
Yes—B-stock means only cosmetic blemishes with no playability or sound compromise, so you save significantly while getting full performance. This makes the AP-4 an excellent value if metal is your primary focus.