LKHVBLKSP-B0576 vs LKHVMGO-B0282 — Compare

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576 vs ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

Both are identical KH-V signature models with the same electronics, neck, and playability—the difference is cosmetic finish and bridge hardware. Choose Black Sparkle for classic wave-inlay aesthetics with a ceramic nut, or Metallic Gold if you prefer a string-thru TOM-style bridge and gold finish.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576

$1,439.20
View ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

$1,439.20
View ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

Specs side by side

ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282
Price$1,439.20$1,439.20
BrandESP LTDESP LTD
BodyExplorerExplorer
Body TypeSolidSolid
Scale25.5" Scale25.5" Scale
Strings66
Frets24 Frets24 Frets
FretboardEbonyEbony
NeckMapleMaple
BridgeFixedFixed
Year20232023
ConditionNewRefurbished

Why choose ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Black Sparkle 0576

  • Black Sparkle finish with wave inlays delivers iconic stage presence
  • Graphite nut provides stable tuning in demanding live conditions
  • Classic aesthetic matches Kirk Hammett's signature look

Why choose ESP LTD KH-V Kirk Hammett Signature Guitar Metallic Gold 0282

  • Metallic Gold finish stands out visually on stage
  • Tonepros locking TOM-style string-thru bridge offers alternative setup preference
  • Same aggressive tone and playability as Black Sparkle variant
Bottom line: If you prefer the traditional KH-V look with graphite nut stability, choose Black Sparkle. If you want a distinctive gold finish and prefer string-thru bridge design, go Metallic Gold—tone and playability are effectively identical.

Frequently asked questions

Are the pickups and electronics the same on both?

Yes. Both feature dual EMG BoneBreaker pickups (ceramic bridge, alnico 5 neck), active electronics, and identical volume/tone/selector controls. Tone character is high-output, aggressive, and sustain-rich on both.

What's the main hardware difference?

Black Sparkle has a graphite nut and standard bridge setup, while Metallic Gold has a molded nut and a Tonepros locking TOM-style string-thru bridge. Both use LTD locking tuners.

Which is better for live metal/thrash?

Both are equally suited to metal and thrash. Choose based on visual preference and bridge design comfort—the graphite nut on Black Sparkle may appeal to players wanting maximum tuning stability, while the string-thru design on Gold offers alternative setup ergonomics.

Are these guitars for beginners?

No. Both require intermediate to professional skill due to extra-thin U-shaped neck, 24 extra-jumbo frets, and aggressive active pickup response. They're designed for experienced lead players and metal specialists.

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