LJMIIQMBLKSHB-B vs LMTIOBSM — Compare
ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton Guitar Black Shadow Burst B-Stock vs ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic
The JM-II prioritizes ergonomic speed and playability for progressive metal with its extra-thin neck and roasted maple construction, while the MT-I emphasizes tonal variety and sustain through set-thru construction and signature multi-voice pickups for aggressive live and studio metal work. Choose the JM-II if you value neck comfort and fast melodic execution; choose the MT-I if you need maximum tonal flexibility and resonant sustain.
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ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton Guitar Black Shadow Burst B-Stock
ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton Guitar Black Shadow Burst B-Stock | ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,279.20 | $1,599.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | — | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25.5" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Bridge | Fixed | Hipshot |
| Year | 2024 | 2005 |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton Guitar Black Shadow Burst B-Stock
- ✓ Extra-thin u-shaped neck profile reduces fatigue during extended playing sessions
- ✓ Roasted maple neck offers stability and lighter feel for rapid execution
- ✓ B-stock pricing offers significant savings on a professional-grade instrument
- ✓ 350mm radius and extra-jumbo frets optimized specifically for speed and melodic work
Why choose ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic
- ✓ Set-thru construction maximizes sustain and tonal coherence for demanding performances
- ✓ Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature pickups offer three distinct voices plus additional selectable options via push-pull volume
- ✓ All-brass Hipshot Hi-Mass hardtail bridge ensures superior tuning stability and aggressive attack
- ✓ Mahogany and white ash body construction delivers aggressive tone with controlled low-end definition
Frequently asked questions
What's the main playability difference between these two?
The JM-II features an extra-thin u-shaped neck profile and roasted maple construction designed to minimize fatigue during extended sessions, while the MT-I uses a thin-U profile with set-thru construction that prioritizes sustain and access. Both have 25.5" scales and 42mm nut widths, but the JM-II's extra-thin profile and 350mm radius favor speed, while the MT-I's compound radius (305mm) offers versatility across the fretboard.
How do the pickup systems differ in versatility?
The JM-II uses Fishman Fluence Modern Humbuckers (alnico neck, ceramic bridge) with a simple push-pull tone control for instant tonal variation. The MT-I features Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature pickups with three voices selectable via toggle switch plus a fourth voice accessible via push-pull volume, offering more preset tonal options.
Which is better for metal genres like djent and progressive metal?
The JM-II is signature-designed for progressive metal and metalcore with its speed-focused neck geometry, while the MT-I covers both djent and aggressive metal with its emphasis on controlled sustain and multiple tonal voices. Both excel in heavy music; choose JM-II for melodic speed-focused progressive work, MT-I for djent's dynamic tonal range.
What accounts for the price difference?
The JM-II is priced as mid-tier B-stock (previous display or overstock), while the MT-I is a new high-tier instrument. The MT-I's set-thru construction, signature multi-voice pickup system, all-brass hardtail bridge, and premium aesthetics justify the higher new retail price. The JM-II offers excellent value for professional players seeking cost savings.