LKH602PSP-B3239 vs LSN1HTBLKBLAST1 — Compare
ESP LTD KH-602 Kirk Hammet Guitar Purple Sparkle B-Stock 3239 vs ESP LTD SN-1HT Electric Guitar Black Blast
The KH-602 is a neck-thru signature model built for aggressive metal with active EMG pickups and a Floyd Rose tremolo system, while the SN-1HT is a bolt-on hardtail with a Fishman passive pickup and scalloped frets optimized for lead expressiveness. Choose the KH-602 if you want signature specs and extreme tremolo capability; choose the SN-1HT if you prioritize playability speed and tuning stability.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD KH-602 Kirk Hammet Guitar Purple Sparkle B-Stock 3239
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD KH-602 Kirk Hammet Guitar Purple Sparkle B-Stock 3239 | ESP LTD SN-1HT Electric Guitar Black Blast | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,199.20 | $1,499.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD Kirk Hammett | LTD SN |
| Body | Single Cutaway | 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 | — | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | — |
| Bridge | Tremolo | Hipshot |
| Year | 2024 | 2025 |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD KH-602 Kirk Hammet Guitar Purple Sparkle B-Stock 3239
- ✓ Neck-thru construction maximizes sustain and resonance for heavy tones
- ✓ Floyd Rose 1000 bridge enables extensive tremolo manipulation
- ✓ Active EMG Kirk Hammett signature pickups deliver high output and consistent response
- ✓ Professional-grade hardware built to specification
Why choose ESP LTD SN-1HT Electric Guitar Black Blast
- ✓ Thin U-shaped rooted maple neck with scalloped frets (17–22) enhances lead expressiveness
- ✓ Hardtail bridge with string-thru-body maintains rock-solid tuning stability
- ✓ Fishman Open Core Classic pickup with push/pull control offers tonal versatility
- ✓ 25.5 inch scale length provides familiar string tension and intonation
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for drop tunings and extreme pitch shifts?
The KH-602 is engineered for drop tunings and extreme pitch manipulation thanks to its Floyd Rose 1000 bridge system and neck-thru sustain. The SN-1HT's hardtail bridge is optimized for tuning stability in standard to moderate detuning but not designed for extensive tremolo shifts.
Which guitar feels faster and more comfortable for extended lead playing?
The SN-1HT features a thin U-shaped roasted maple neck with scalloped frets (17–22) that reduce finger fatigue and enhance speed during long sessions. The KH-602 has a 350mm radius pau ferro fingerboard—moderately curved but not as optimized for ultra-fast lead work.
What is the key difference in pickup technology and tone?
The KH-602 uses active EMG Bone Breaker humbuckers for consistent high-output aggression, while the SN-1HT uses a passive Fishman Open Core Classic with a push/pull control for broader tonal range. Active pickups respond more predictably; passive pickups offer more dynamic responsiveness and versatility.
Which bridge system is more stable for downtuned metal?
The KH-602's Floyd Rose 1000 enables tremolo manipulation but requires more maintenance; the SN-1HT's Hipshot hardtail with string-thru-body construction provides superior tuning stability without complex bridge adjustments, better for players prioritizing set-and-forget reliability.