LEC257BLKS-B vs LEX201BLKS-B — Compare
ESP LTD EC-257 Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock vs ESP LTD EX-201 Black Satin Electric Guitar B-Stock
The EC-257 is a seven-string extended-range guitar built for drop tunings and progressive metal, while the EX-201 is a traditional six-string designed for hard rock, metal, and blues with coil-split versatility. Choose the EC-257 if you need sub-low frequencies and modern tonalities; pick the EX-201 if you want a classic workhorse that handles multiple genres without extended range.
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ESP LTD EC-257 Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock
ESP LTD EX-201 Black Satin Electric Guitar B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD EC-257 Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock | ESP LTD EX-201 Black Satin Electric Guitar B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $479.20 | $479.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD EC | LTD EX |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Explorer |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 7 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Jatoba | Jatoba |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Pickup Configuration | — | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2018 | 2023 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD EC-257 Electric Guitar Black Satin B-Stock
- ✓ Seven-string configuration for extended lower tunings and modern metal
- ✓ 25.5-inch scale supports drop tunings with clarity and sustain
- ✓ 48mm nut and 400mm radius fingerboard optimized for aggressive playing styles
Why choose ESP LTD EX-201 Black Satin Electric Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Familiar six-string format works across hard rock, blues, and traditional styles
- ✓ Coil-split expands tonal range from full humbuckers to single-coil articulation
- ✓ 24.75-inch scale and 350mm radius provide balanced comfort for fast leads and chord work
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for beginners exploring extended-range playing?
The EC-257 is designed for intermediate to advanced players specifically exploring lower tunings and modern tonalities. The EX-201's six-string format and smaller scale (24.75 inches vs 25.5 inches) may feel more approachable for players new to electric guitar, though both are categorized for intermediate skill and above.
Can the EX-201 handle metal and drop tunings?
Yes, the EX-201 is listed as suitable for metal and hard rock. However, it uses standard tuning compatibility with its six-string setup and 24.75-inch scale; the EC-257's seven strings and longer 25.5-inch scale are specifically engineered for lower, extended tunings.
What is the main tonal difference between these pickups?
The EC-257 uses ESP-designed LH-150 pickups optimized for the full frequency range of seven strings, with push-pull coil tap for flexibility. The EX-201 uses the LH-150B bridge pickup with coil-split, allowing it to switch between full humbucker thickness and single-coil articulation, making it more genre-versatile across traditional styles.
How do the neck shapes and scales compare for playability?
Both feature thin U-profile necks and roasted jatoba fingerboards. The EC-257 has a 48mm nut, 400mm radius, and 25.5-inch scale optimized for seven-string stability and aggressive playing. The EX-201 has a 42mm nut, 350mm radius, and 24.75-inch scale better suited for fast runs and comfortable chord work on six strings.