LEC401OW-B vs LMH400HTQMSTBLKSB-B — Compare
ESP LTD EC-401 Olympic White Guitar B-Stock vs ESP LTD MH-400HT QM Electric Guitar in See Thru Black Sunburst B-Stock
The EC-401 is a classic single-cutaway designed for rock and metal with a slightly shorter scale (24.75"), while the MH-400HT/QM is a modern shredder platform with a longer scale (25.5"), extra-jumbo frets, and reversed headstock that favors progressive and drop-tuning players. Choose the EC-401 for traditional playability and aesthetic; choose the MH-400HT/QM for maximum upper-fret access and contemporary styling.
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ESP LTD MH-400HT QM Electric Guitar in See Thru Black Sunburst B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD EC-401 Olympic White Guitar B-Stock | ESP LTD MH-400HT QM Electric Guitar in See Thru Black Sunburst B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.20 | $719.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD EC | LTD MH |
| Body Type | Solid | — |
| Scale | — | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Pickup Configuration | — | Active HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | String-Through Body |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD EC-401 Olympic White Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Iconic single-cutaway body shape with timeless appeal
- ✓ Slightly shorter 24.75" scale offers easier reach for smaller hands
- ✓ Earvana compensated nut improves intonation across the fretboard
- ✓ Olympic White finish resists fingerprint visibility
Why choose ESP LTD MH-400HT QM Electric Guitar in See Thru Black Sunburst B-Stock
- ✓ Extra-jumbo 24 frets with extra-thin neck profile enables aggressive lead work in upper positions
- ✓ Longer 25.5" scale provides tighter low-end for drop tunings and heavy styles
- ✓ Quilted maple top with reversed headstock delivers distinctive modern aesthetics
- ✓ EMG 85 neck pickup adds tonal versatility compared to EMG 60
Frequently asked questions
What's the practical difference between 24.75" and 25.5" scale length?
The MH-400HT/QM's 25.5" scale produces tighter, more defined low-end—crucial for drop tunings and heavy styles—while the EC-401's 24.75" scale feels slightly more compact and is easier on smaller hands or players transitioning from shorter-scale guitars.
How do the pickup configurations differ?
Both use active EMG-81 bridge pickups for high output and clarity. The EC-401 pairs it with an EMG-60 neck pickup for balanced rhythm tones, while the MH-400HT/QM uses an EMG-85 neck pickup for thicker, more aggressive rhythm and lead textures.
Which is better for playing in standard tuning versus drop tunings?
Either works in standard tuning, but the MH-400HT/QM's longer scale and extra-jumbo frets are optimized for drop tunings (drop-D, drop-C, etc.) where tighter string tension improves clarity. The EC-401 handles standard tuning and lighter alternative tunings more naturally.
Are these B-stock units reliable, or should I wait for new stock?
B-stock guitars are fully playable with only minor cosmetic blemishes; the playability, tone, and structural integrity are identical to new units. Both offer significant value and are excellent choices if you prioritize savings over pristine appearance.