LM1004BLK-B vs LTA604FRXBLKS — Compare
ESP LTD M-1004 Electric Bass in Black B-Stock vs ESP LTD TA-604-FRX/BLKS bass
The M-1004 is a versatile all-rounder with switchable pickup voicings and a 42mm nut width suited to funk, rock, and studio work, while the TA-604 FRX is purpose-built for metal and hard rock with tighter string spacing (40mm) and aggressive EMG electronics. Choose the M-1004 for tonal flexibility across genres; choose the TA-604 FRX if you're committed to heavy music and want a signature instrument optimized for that sound.
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ESP LTD M-1004 Electric Bass in Black B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD M-1004 Electric Bass in Black B-Stock | ESP LTD TA-604-FRX/BLKS bass | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,039.20 | $1,599.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Modern Bass | Modern Bass |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 35" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Pickup Configuration | P/J | Active HH |
| Bridge | String-Through Body | — |
| Year | 2023 | — |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP LTD M-1004 Electric Bass in Black B-Stock
- ✓ Fishman Fluence pickups with humbucker/single-coil switching for broader tonal range
- ✓ Wider 42mm nut width suits players preferring more string spacing
- ✓ 2-band EQ with 3-way voice selector offers extensive sound-shaping options
- ✓ B-stock pricing in mid tier makes it better value than comparable new instruments
Why choose ESP LTD TA-604-FRX/BLKS bass
- ✓ Twin EMG 35DC pickups optimized for tight lows and aggressive mids in heavy genres
- ✓ 40mm nut width and extra-jumbo frets enable fast, dense playing style
- ✓ Signature model design reflects real-world demands of professional metal touring
- ✓ Active controls (volume, balance, tone) provide straightforward, surgical tonal adjustment
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for metal and hard rock?
The TA-604 FRX is purpose-built for metal with twin EMG pickups designed for tight, punchy lows and aggressive mids. The M-1004 can play metal but excels in more versatile, funk-friendly applications.
How much does nut width affect playability?
The M-1004's 42mm nut is wider, giving more string separation ideal for fingerstyle and funk; the TA-604's 40mm nut is tighter, supporting faster, denser picking typical of metal. Choose based on your playing style and hand comfort.
What is the main tonal difference between the pickup systems?
The M-1004's Fishman Fluence SB-1 offers switchable humbucker and single-coil voicings for versatility across rock, funk, and studio work. The TA-604's twin EMG 35DC pickups are fixed and voiced specifically for the tight, articulate aggression needed in metal and hard rock.
Is B-stock condition a concern on the M-1004?
B-stock typically means the instrument has minor cosmetic blemishes but full functionality and warranty. The M-1004's build quality (neck-thru, active electronics) makes it reliable even as B-stock, offering excellent value in the mid price tier.