LAP4BKMBLKS-B vs LTL4NAT — Compare
ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock vs ESP LTD Thinline TL-4 Semi Hollow Electric Bass Natural
The AP-4 is a bolt-on metal bass with aggressive clarity and punchy output designed for hard rock and progressive styles, while the TL-4 is a semi-hollow jazz and funk bass with warm resonance and natural sustain. Choose the AP-4 if you play metal or need bright attack; choose the TL-4 if you need versatility across jazz, R&B, funk, and studio work.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock
ESP LTD Thinline TL-4 Semi Hollow Electric Bass Natural
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock | ESP LTD Thinline TL-4 Semi Hollow Electric Bass Natural | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.20 | $719.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Precision Bass | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Semi Hollow |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Jatoba |
| Pickup Configuration | P | — |
| Bridge | Hardtail | — |
| Year | 2020 | 2020 |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD AP-4 String Bass Black Metal B-Stock
- ✓ B-stock pricing offers significant savings with only cosmetic blemishes
- ✓ Punchy, articulate tone with aggressive clarity ideal for metal and hard rock
- ✓ EMG 35CS active pickup with direct signal path for transparent response
- ✓ Thin U-neck and 21 extra-jumbo frets reduce finger fatigue during fast playing
Why choose ESP LTD Thinline TL-4 Semi Hollow Electric Bass Natural
- ✓ Semi-hollow chambered mahogany body adds natural warmth and resonance lacking in solid designs
- ✓ Fishman SONICORE pickup plus TL-3 preamp with onboard tuner for studio convenience
- ✓ Set-neck construction provides superior stability and upper-fret access
- ✓ Roasted jatoba fingerboard and versatile tone suit jazz, R&B, funk, and pop equally well
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for metal and hard rock?
The AP-4 is purpose-built for metal with its bright, punchy tone, aggressive clarity, and EMG active pickup. The TL-4's warm resonance and semi-hollow body make it less suited to heavy styles.
Which bass works better in jazz and funk?
The TL-4 excels in jazz, funk, and R&B with its warm, articulate character and natural sustain from the chambered mahogany body. The AP-4's punchy attack and controlled lows are designed for metal, not these genres.
What is the main construction difference?
The AP-4 uses bolt-on construction for bright response and portability; the TL-4 uses set-neck construction for stability and better upper-fret access. The TL-4's semi-hollow body adds significant tonal character compared to the AP-4's solid alder.
Why is the AP-4 cheaper if both are mid-tier?
The AP-4 is B-stock, meaning it has only cosmetic blemishes but full playability and sound quality—this discount does not reflect inferior electronics or construction.