LFL4BLKREDBS vs LPHX1004TSBS-B — Compare
ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin vs ESP LTD PHOENIX-1004 Bass in Tobacco Sunburst Satin B-Stock
The FL-4 is a metal-focused, single-pickup workhorse with aggressive tone and extra-thin playability, while the PHOENIX-1004 is a versatile four-string offering warm, complex tone with dual active pickups and more tonal range. Choose the FL-4 if you play djent and metal; choose the PHOENIX-1004 if you need funk, progressive, and studio versatility.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin
ESP LTD PHOENIX-1004 Bass in Tobacco Sunburst Satin B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin | ESP LTD PHOENIX-1004 Bass in Tobacco Sunburst Satin B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,899.00 | $1,119.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 34" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Unknown / Other |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Bridge | Hipshot | — |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD FL-4 Fred Leclercq Bass Black Red Burst Satin
- ✓ Extra-thin U-contoured neck with 24 XJ frets for speed and precision
- ✓ EMG 35P single pickup delivers aggressive, articulate punchy mid-range tone
- ✓ Neck-through alder construction optimized for tight low end and sustain
- ✓ Purpose-built for metal, djent, and extended playing sessions
Why choose ESP LTD PHOENIX-1004 Bass in Tobacco Sunburst Satin B-Stock
- ✓ Dual Fishman Fluence pickups with switchable single-coil mode for broad tonal range
- ✓ Mahogany body and 5-piece mahogany/walnut neck deliver warm, resonant tone
- ✓ Three independent volume/tone controls enable detailed sound shaping
- ✓ B-Stock pricing offers professional-grade features at mid-price tier
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for metal and progressive music?
The FL-4 excels in metal and djent with its aggressive EMG pickup and articulate tone, while the PHOENIX-1004 suits progressive with its dual pickups and broader tonal palette. The FL-4 is more specialized for metal; the PHOENIX-1004 adapts across multiple styles.
What is the key difference in pickup configuration?
The FL-4 uses a single EMG 35P bridge pickup optimized for high output and aggression. The PHOENIX-1004 features dual Fishman Fluence SB-1 pickups with switchable single-coil mode, offering greater tonal flexibility and clarity across frequency ranges.
How do the neck profiles compare?
Both have thin U-shaped neck contours for speed and comfort. The FL-4 emphasizes an extra-thin profile with 24 stainless steel frets and 400mm radius, while the PHOENIX-1004 uses 21 extra-jumbo frets with 15.75-inch radius, offering a slightly different feel on fingerwork.
Why is the PHOENIX-1004 listed as B-Stock?
B-Stock indicates the instrument is in excellent condition but may have minor cosmetic imperfections or opened packaging; it is fully functional and professionally finished at a lower price than standard new stock.