LB206SMNS vs LTA204FRXBLKS — Compare
ESP LTD B-206SM Bass in Natural Satin vs ESP LTD TA-204 Frx Bass in Black Satin
The B-206SM is a versatile six-string with active EQ for studio and progressive work, while the TA-204 FRX is a four-string metal instrument with passive electronics and aggressive tone-shaping designed for drop tunings and hard rock. Choose the B-206SM for tonal flexibility and extended range; pick the TA-204 FRX if you need a focused low end and traditional metal platform.
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Specs side by side
| ESP LTD B-206SM Bass in Natural Satin | ESP LTD TA-204 Frx Bass in Black Satin | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $749.00 | $699.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Modern Bass | Modern Bass |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 35" Scale | 35" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 4 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Jatoba |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | P/J | P/J |
| Bridge | Fixed | — |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD B-206SM Bass in Natural Satin
- ✓ Six-string configuration extends upper range for progressive and funk styles
- ✓ ABQ-3 3-Band Active EQ with parametric mid control enables extensive tone shaping
- ✓ Spalted maple top adds visual appeal and ash body supports clear, punchy modern tone
- ✓ 54mm nut width and 500mm radius suit seated or standing play across genres
Why choose ESP LTD TA-204 Frx Bass in Black Satin
- ✓ Four-string simplicity and aggressive Tom Araya signature design ideal for metal and thrash
- ✓ Passive electronics deliver uncolored, tight tone without electronic interference
- ✓ Lighter basswood body and 40mm nut width favor fast position shifts in dense mixes
- ✓ 400mm fingerboard radius and drop-tuning focus create focused low-end articulation
Frequently asked questions
Which bass handles drop tunings better?
The TA-204 FRX is explicitly designed for drop tunings with a focused low end and tight passive tone. The B-206SM's active EQ and six-string design suit standard or slightly lowered tunings with more tonal flexibility.
Can the B-206SM work for metal?
While the B-206SM can technically play metal, it is optimized for studio, progressive, and funk where parametric EQ shaping is an asset. The TA-204 FRX's passive pickups and aggressive tone-shaping are purpose-built for metal's uncolored, sustained character.
What's the main electronics difference?
The B-206SM pairs passive pickups with an active ABQ-3 3-Band EQ system offering parametric mid control for extensive shaping. The TA-204 FRX uses passive electronics with simple Volume/Balance/Tone controls for straightforward, uncolored performance.
Which has a faster neck?
Both feature thin U-contour necks and 24 extra-jumbo frets on 35-inch scales. The TA-204 FRX has a tighter 400mm radius suited to rapid position shifts, while the B-206SM's 500mm radius and wider 54mm nut support comfort across seated and standing play.