LCSIIQMVN vs LKHVMGO-B — Compare
ESP LTD CS-II/QM/VINTAGE NAT guitar vs ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold B-Stock
The CS-II targets modern metalcore and progressive metal with its splittable Seymour Duncan pickups and 25.5" scale for extended reach, while the KH-V is a classic thrash-metal platform built around Kirk Hammett's high-output EMG signature sound and compact 24-fret layout. Choose the CS-II for technical versatility and studio precision; choose the KH-V for straightforward aggressive tone and faster fret access in a smaller body.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD CS-II/QM/VINTAGE NAT guitar | ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,799.00 | $1,439.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | — | Explorer |
| Body Type | — | Solid |
| Scale | 25.5" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | — |
| Pickup Configuration | — | HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | 2023 |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD CS-II/QM/VINTAGE NAT guitar
- ✓ Splittable bridge pickup adds tonal flexibility absent on KH-V
- ✓ 25.5" scale supports lower tunings and extended range playing
- ✓ 350mm fretboard radius suits both lead work and complex chords
- ✓ Seymour Duncan Custom 14 and Quarter Pound deliver articulate, modern aggression
Why choose ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold B-Stock
- ✓ B-stock pricing offers significant savings over new models
- ✓ Extra-thin U-shaped neck enables fastest fret access of the two
- ✓ EMG active electronics provide consistent high-output punch without need for adjustment
- ✓ Iconic V-body design with stage presence and Metallica pedigree
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for drop-tuned metalcore?
The CS-II's 25.5" scale and splittable bridge pickup are engineered specifically for modern metalcore and djent tunings, making it the better choice. The KH-V is optimized for standard and half-step lower tunings typical of thrash metal.
What's the practical difference between 24 and 22 frets?
The KH-V's 24-fret access is slightly faster due to its extra-thin U profile and shorter overall reach, while the CS-II's 22 frets sit further back, requiring slightly more reach but supporting lower string tension on extended scales. Both are pro-level platforms.
Are the pickups upgradeable or locked in?
Both use active/passive systems that accept standard humbucker replacements, though the CS-II's splittable design and the KH-V's EMG active circuit are signature features best preserved as-is unless chasing a specific tone overhaul.
Why is the KH-V mid-tier and CS-II high-tier if both are neck-thru?
The CS-II's quilted maple top, Seymour Duncan custom pickups, and Gotoh hardware command premium pricing; the KH-V's B-stock status (cosmetic or minor defects only) accounts for its lower price despite comparable build quality and professional-grade electronics.