LEC01FTBLK vs LEC1000VB-B0019 — Compare
ESP LTD EC-01FT Black Electric Guitar vs ESP LTD EC-1000 VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock 0019
The EC-01FT is a solid mid-tier workhorse with passive electronics and a focused tone ideal for players seeking straightforward rock and metal performance, while the EC-1000 VB is a professional-grade instrument with active EMG pickups and extra-jumbo frets designed for aggressive metal and thrash players who want maximum output and upper-fret speed. The EC-01FT suits intermediate-to-advanced players building their setup; the EC-1000 VB suits advanced and professional players prioritizing cutting-edge articulation and live volume.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD EC-1000 VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock 0019
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD EC-01FT Black Electric Guitar | ESP LTD EC-1000 VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock 0019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,099.00 | $879.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD EC | LTD EC |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | — |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic | Fixed |
| Year | 2023 | 2025 |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD EC-01FT Black Electric Guitar
- ✓ Seymour Duncan Custom 14 exclusive pickup with warm, articulate midrange character
- ✓ Passive electronics eliminate battery maintenance and offer signal simplicity
- ✓ Master volume push/pull control for quick gain switching on the fly
- ✓ Lower entry price within mid-tier category
Why choose ESP LTD EC-1000 VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock 0019
- ✓ Active EMG 81 and 60 pickup pair delivers high output and aggressive cutting highs demanded by thrash and metal
- ✓ 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets enable faster lead work and precision bending
- ✓ Independent pickup volume controls allow greater tonal shaping flexibility
- ✓ B-Stock pricing discount with full structural and tonal integrity
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tone difference between the Seymour Duncan and EMG pickups?
The EC-01FT's Seymour Duncan Custom 14 emphasizes warm, focused midrange articulation with natural sustain—ideal for rock clarity. The EC-1000 VB's EMG pairing prioritizes tight low-end punch and cutting highs with high active output, better suited for aggressive metal and thrash where clarity under heavy gain is critical.
How do the frets affect playability for lead work?
The EC-01FT has 22 XJ standard stainless steel frets, while the EC-1000 VB has 24 extra-jumbo frets. Extra-jumbo frets offer taller, wider playing surfaces that reward precision bending and fast lead passages; standard frets are perfectly playable for most rock applications but require slightly more finger discipline.
What does B-Stock mean on the EC-1000 VB, and is it a concern?
B-Stock indicates minor cosmetic imperfections on the body—scratches, finish marks—but the description confirms full structural and tonal integrity. If cosmetics don't concern you, it's the same instrument at a lower price.
Which guitar is better for studio recording?
Both are excellent for studio. The EC-01FT's passive signal and warm tone suit recording for a natural, pure capture. The EC-1000 VB's active pickups and aggressive character excel in metal and hard rock studio mixes where cutting clarity is needed. Choose based on your genre and desired tone character.