LSPARROWHAWKBLKD-B vs LVIPER1000VB-B — Compare
ESP LTD SPARROWHAWK Bill Kelliher Guitar Black B-Stock vs ESP LTD VIPER-1000VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock
The Sparrowhawk prioritizes tonal flexibility and playability comfort with coil-splitting Seymour Duncan pickups, while the Viper-1000VB emphasizes active electronics and aggressive voicing with Fishman Fluence pickups. Choose the Sparrowhawk for players who want passive versatility and a signature instrument; choose the Viper-1000VB for those seeking modern active tone and a double-cutaway design.
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ESP LTD SPARROWHAWK Bill Kelliher Guitar Black B-Stock
ESP LTD VIPER-1000VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD SPARROWHAWK Bill Kelliher Guitar Black B-Stock | ESP LTD VIPER-1000VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,199.20 | $1,199.20 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | — | LTD Viper |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 22 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2023 | 2024 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP LTD SPARROWHAWK Bill Kelliher Guitar Black B-Stock
- ✓ Coil-splitting on both volume and tone controls for dual humbucker-to-single-coil flexibility
- ✓ Signature Bill Kelliher model with authoritative tone shaping for serious studio and stage work
- ✓ Seymour Duncan Distortion pickups known for consistent high-output metal performance
- ✓ Single-cutaway set-thru body design maximizes neck access and sustain
Why choose ESP LTD VIPER-1000VB Vintage Black Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Active Fishman Fluence Modern Humbuckers with push-pull voicing selector for versatile passive-to-active switching
- ✓ Double-cutaway asymmetrical shape optimized for high-speed soloing and upper-fret fluidity
- ✓ Stainless steel extra-jumbo frets resist wear under aggressive playing
- ✓ Macassar ebony fingerboard with aged binding aesthetic combines vintage looks with modern playability
Frequently asked questions
How do the pickup systems differ between these two guitars?
The Sparrowhawk uses passive Seymour Duncan Distortion humbuckers with coil-splitting on both volume and tone controls, letting you dial in humbucker thickness or single-coil clarity. The Viper-1000VB uses active Fishman Fluence Modern Humbuckers with a push-pull voicing selector that switches between active aggression and passive-inspired warmth on each pickup independently.
Which guitar is better for drop tunings and heavy riffing?
Both handle drop tunings well due to their 24.75" scale length and set-thru construction, but the Viper-1000VB is specifically listed as optimized for drop tunings with its tight low-end voicing and stainless steel extra-jumbo frets designed to resist wear under aggressive playing.
What are the key playability differences in body shape and neck access?
The Sparrowhawk uses a single-cutaway design with a thin U-profile neck and set-thru body, prioritizing classic sustain and access. The Viper-1000VB features an asymmetrical double-cutaway shape specifically designed for high-speed soloing and faster upper-fret access, making it better suited to lead-focused playing.
Are there fingerboard material differences?
The Sparrowhawk has a 350mm radius fingerboard with standard construction and 22 XJ extra-jumbo frets. The Viper-1000VB features a Macassar ebony fingerboard with 22 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets, which offers superior durability and a premium aesthetic with aged binding on the neck.