LEC201FTSTBCLH vs LEC256QMSTBCSB-B — Compare
ESP LTD EC-201FT Lefty Guitar See Thru Black Cherry vs ESP LTD EC-256 QM Guitar See Thru Black Cherry Sunburst B-Stock
The EC-201FT Lefty is a single-pickup, set-through budget workhorse optimized for blues, rock, and jazz with warm woody character; the EC-256 QM is a dual-pickup mid-tier instrument designed for rock, metal, and studio work with tighter, more articulate full-range response. Choose the EC-201FT if you prioritize warmth and simplicity for traditional blues and jazz, or the EC-256 QM if you need versatility across rock and metal with dual-pickup switching and a quilted maple top.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD EC-201FT Lefty Guitar See Thru Black Cherry
ESP LTD EC-256 QM Guitar See Thru Black Cherry Sunburst B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD EC-201FT Lefty Guitar See Thru Black Cherry | ESP LTD EC-256 QM Guitar See Thru Black Cherry Sunburst B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499.00 | $519.20 |
| 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 | 22 Frets |
| Fretboard | Jatoba | Jatoba |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD EC-201FT Lefty Guitar See Thru Black Cherry
- ✓ Budget-friendly price tier with set-through construction for enhanced sustain
- ✓ Warm, woody tone with strong midrange presence ideal for blues and jazz
- ✓ Coil-split functionality expands tonal range from humbucker warmth to single-coil clarity
Why choose ESP LTD EC-256 QM Guitar See Thru Black Cherry Sunburst B-Stock
- ✓ Dual ESP humbucking pickups provide articulate, full-range tone with tight lows and singing mids
- ✓ Quilted maple top creates striking visual appeal and adds tonal refinement
- ✓ 3-way toggle pickup switching offers greater versatility for rock, metal, and studio applications
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for metal and heavier styles?
The EC-256 QM is specifically listed as suitable for metal and hard rock, with dual pickups delivering tight lows and articulate response. The EC-201FT is noted as not ideal for metal or djent styles.
What is the main tone difference between these two?
The EC-201FT delivers warm, woody tones with midrange presence and thick sustain from its single mahogany-body construction. The EC-256 QM offers tight low end, singing mids, and full-range articulation through dual pickups and quilted maple top construction.
Are both guitars left-handed?
The EC-201FT is explicitly a lefty model. The EC-256 QM description does not specify left or right-handed orientation, so verify with the retailer before purchase if left-handed configuration is required.
What's the price and construction difference?
The EC-201FT is budget-tier with set-through mahogany construction and a single pickup. The EC-256 QM is mid-tier with mahogany body and quilted maple top, dual pickups, and traditional TOM bridge hardware.