LPHX204DXREDB vs LSURV204DXBLKB — Compare
ESP LTD PHX-204DX RED BURST guitar vs ESP LTD SURVEYOR-204DX BLACK BURST guitar
Both are mid-tier, 34-inch 4-string basses built for funk, studio, and gigging with nearly identical specs and active electronics. The PHX-204DX uses ESP SB-4 pickups and emphasizes warm lows alongside articulate highs, while the Surveyor-204DX uses ESP LJB and LPD pickups and prioritizes a tight low end with modern clarity. Choose the PHX-204DX if you want warmth and versatility across rock and pop; pick the Surveyor-204DX if you prefer a punchy, modern tone optimized for funk and contemporary styles.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD PHX-204DX RED BURST guitar | ESP LTD SURVEYOR-204DX BLACK BURST guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.00 | $549.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD Phoenix | — |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 34" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 21 Frets | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD PHX-204DX RED BURST guitar
- ✓ Warm, focused lows paired with articulate highs for tonal versatility
- ✓ ESP SB-4 dual pickup configuration tuned for balanced tone shaping
- ✓ Clear note definition ideal for studio work and precision playing
- ✓ Red Burst finish offers distinctive visual appeal
Why choose ESP LTD SURVEYOR-204DX BLACK BURST guitar
- ✓ Tight, controlled low end with modern clarity for contemporary funk and pop
- ✓ Arrives factory-strung with D'Addario XL165 strings, ready to play immediately
- ✓ ESP LJB and LPD pickup pairing optimized for punchy articulation
- ✓ Black Burst finish delivers strong stage presence
Frequently asked questions
Are the necks and body dimensions different between these two basses?
No. Both feature a 34-inch scale, thin U-profile roasted maple neck, 40mm nut width, 21 extra-jumbo frets, 400mm fingerboard radius, rosewood fingerboard, poplar body with burled poplar top, and identical hardware. The physical feel and playability are virtually the same.
What is the main tonal difference between the PHX-204DX and Surveyor-204DX?
The PHX-204DX emphasizes warm lows and articulate highs for balanced versatility, while the Surveyor-204DX prioritizes a tight low end with modern clarity and enhanced punch. The PHX is better for warm, full-spectrum tone; the Surveyor suits modern funk and contemporary styles.
Do the pickups affect which bass I should choose?
Yes. The PHX-204DX uses ESP SB-4 pickups designed for warmth and note clarity, while the Surveyor-204DX uses ESP LJB and LPD pickups optimized for tight lows and articulate midrange. If you like classic, warm bass tone, choose the PHX; if you prefer modern, punchy articulation, choose the Surveyor.
Which bass is better for beginners?
Both are rated for intermediate to professional players and share identical neck geometry and scale, so neither is specifically optimized for beginners. The choice depends on your tonal preference and whether you value pre-strung convenience (Surveyor-204DX includes factory D'Addario strings).