LB205SMFLNS vs LB206SMNS — Compare
ESP LTD B-205SM Fretless Bass Guitar in Natural Stain Finish vs ESP LTD B-206SM Bass in Natural Stain
The B-205SM is a fretless bass built for expressive, nuanced playing in jazz and funk studio work, while the B-206SM is a six-string fretted bass designed for modern, punch-focused live performance and progressive music. Choose the B-205SM if you want fretless character and tone; choose the B-206SM if you need fretted precision across six strings with extended range.
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ESP LTD B-205SM Fretless Bass Guitar in Natural Stain Finish
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-205SM Fretless Bass Guitar in Natural Stain Finish | ESP LTD B-206SM Bass in Natural Stain | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $699.00 | $749.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD B-205SM Fretless Bass Guitar in Natural Stain Finish
- ✓ Fretless design enables expressive slides, bends, and glissando fundamental to jazz and funk
- ✓ 24 fret markers guide intonation without restricting fretless expression
- ✓ Warm, resonant tone with natural body character preserved by active EQ
- ✓ 5-string configuration keeps focus tight for studio session work
Why choose ESP LTD B-206SM Bass in Natural Stain
- ✓ Six-string extended range suits progressive and modern music styles
- ✓ 35-inch scale and extra-jumbo frets provide superior reach and note definition
- ✓ Parametric mid control in ABQ-3 EQ allows detailed tone shaping for live sound engineering
- ✓ Faster, modern playing feel with 500mm radius and roasted jatoba fingerboard
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for someone learning fretless bass?
The B-205SM is designed specifically for fretless playing and includes 24 fret markers to guide finger placement, making it the clear choice for developing fretless technique and intonation control.
Does the B-206SM offer more range?
Yes. The B-206SM's six-string configuration and 35-inch scale extend both string count and playable range compared to the B-205SM's five-string, 34-inch design, ideal for progressive and modern genres.
How do the electronics differ?
Both use the ESP ABQ-3 active EQ, but the B-206SM adds parametric mid control for more detailed frequency shaping, while the B-205SM focuses on standard bass/mid/treble boost-cut to preserve natural body resonance.
Which neck feels more modern?
The B-206SM features a 500mm fingerboard radius, 54mm nut, and extra-jumbo frets optimized for fast, contemporary playing, while the B-205SM's 45mm nut and standard fret markers prioritize traditional fingerstyle comfort on fretless.