LMTIOBSM vs LVULTUREOW-B — Compare
ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic vs ESP LTD James Hetfield Vulture Guitar Olympic White B-Stock
The MT-I is a modern djent-focused instrument with set-thru construction and three-voice Fishman pickups, while the Hetfield Vulture is a classic thrash-metal rhythm machine with set-neck design and punchy EMG active humbuckers. Choose the MT-I for extended-range and tone-switching versatility; choose the Vulture for aggressive, straightforward metal riffing at a lower price point.
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ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic
ESP LTD James Hetfield Vulture Guitar Olympic White B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic | ESP LTD James Hetfield Vulture Guitar Olympic White B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,599.00 | $1,279.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Flying V |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25.5" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 22 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Mahogany |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | — |
| Bridge | Hipshot | Fixed |
| Year | 2005 | 2024 |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson Guitar Obsidian Metallic
- ✓ Set-thru construction maximizes sustain and resonance
- ✓ Three-voice Fishman Fluence pickup with push/pull Voice 3 selector
- ✓ 25.5" scale and compound radius for extended range and modern playing techniques
- ✓ Obsidian Metallic finish offers distinctive aesthetic appeal
Why choose ESP LTD James Hetfield Vulture Guitar Olympic White B-Stock
- ✓ B-Stock pricing offers pro-level specs at mid-tier cost
- ✓ Proven EMG JH Het active humbuckers deliver punchy, articulate aggression
- ✓ Set-neck construction with Macassar ebony fingerboard for smooth upper-fret access
- ✓ TonePros locking TOM bridge and LTD locking tuners ensure rock-solid stability
Frequently asked questions
What's the practical difference in scale length between these two?
The MT-I uses 25.5" scale (Fender-style), while the Vulture uses 24.75" scale (Gibson-style). The MT-I's longer scale suits extended-range tunings and modern djent; the Vulture's shorter scale is traditional for thrash metal and sits naturally on the body.
How do the pickup systems differ?
The MT-I has a passive three-voice Fishman Fluence with selectable bass boost and a hidden Voice 3 via push/pull. The Vulture uses active EMG JH Het humbuckers with dual volume controls. Fishman offers more tonal switching; EMG is more traditional high-output metal aggression.
Is B-Stock really the same as new for the Vulture?
Yes—B-Stock means cosmetic flaws only (finish scratches, dings, minor blemishes). Playability, electronics, and structural integrity are identical to new. You save money with zero sonic or functional penalty.
Which is better for straight-ahead metal riffing?
The Vulture is the more direct choice for classic thrash and hard rock rhythm work. The MT-I excels at djent, drop tunings, and studio work where tone-switching and articulation matter most.