ESP LTD EC-401

Iconic Les Paul-Style Shredder with Active Power

The ESP LTD EC-401 is a high-performance solid-body electric guitar from ESP’s LTD 400 Series, offering classic Les Paul-inspired design with modern playability and aggressive tones. Ideal for rock, metal, and hard rock players across Australia, it features a mahogany body and set-neck for exceptional sustain, paired with EMG 81/60 active humbuckers for razor-sharp articulation. Available in finishes like Gloss Black, Olympic White, Vintage Black, and See-Thru Blue, it’s a reliable workhorse for stage and studio, blending affordability with pro-level features.

High-Quality Performance

The EC-401 is built for powerful, versatile tones:

• Body: Mahogany with a single-cutaway Eclipse shape for warm resonance and comfortable ergonomics. The set-neck design ensures long sustain and smooth upper-fret access, perfect for leads and rhythms.
• Pickups: EMG 81 (bridge) and EMG 60 (neck) active humbuckers deliver high-output, low-noise performance. The 81 provides tight, aggressive leads and chugs, while the 60 offers warm, articulate cleans. A 3-way toggle switch allows neck, bridge, or both configurations, with the active electronics eliminating hum for clean recording.
• Neck: 3-piece mahogany set-neck with a thin U-profile and satin finish for fast playability. The rosewood fingerboard has a 13.78″ radius, 24 extra-jumbo frets, and offset dot inlays for effortless bends and shredding.
• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with stopbar tailpiece for stable intonation and enhanced sustain, ideal for heavy playing styles.
• Controls: Master volume and tone knobs for simple, effective tone shaping.

Users praise its sustain and value, with a zZounds review stating, “The EC-401 plays like a dream, with EMG pickups that cut through the mix.” Some note the active pickups require a 9V battery (included) and may sound sterile for blues, suggesting passive upgrades for warmer tones.

Durable and Stylish Design

• Finishes: Gloss Black, Olympic White, Vintage Black, See-Thru Blue, with a multi-ply pickguard and black hardware for a sleek, aggressive aesthetic.
• Weight: Approximately 8–9 lbs, providing a solid, resonant feel.
• Hardware: Black chrome, with LTD tuners for reliable tuning.
• Build Quality: Set-neck mahogany for superior sustain, rosewood fingerboard, and a bound mahogany body for stage-ready durability.

Backed by a 5-year warranty, it’s built to last. Prices range from $450–$550 USD (AUD 670–820), available at Audio Shop Australia and other retailers.

Key Performance Features

• Body: Mahogany, single-cutaway Eclipse shape
• Neck: 3-Piece Mahogany Set-Neck, Thin U Profile
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 13.78″ Radius, 24 Extra-Jumbo Frets
• Pickups: EMG 81 (bridge), EMG 60 (neck) active humbuckers
• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar
• Tuners: LTD Die-Cast
• Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone, 3-Way Toggle
• Warranty: 5 years

Notes

• Setup Tip: Adjust truss rod and bridge for optimal action; professional setup recommended to smooth fret ends if needed. Use medium-gauge strings (e.g., 10–46) for balanced tension. Pair with Rode PodMic and RØDECaster Pro II for recording demos.
• Care Instructions: Store in a gig bag (~$50–$100 AUD) to protect the finish; clean with a soft cloth.
• Compatibility: Works with standard amps; pair with Fender Tone Master for cleans or Mesa/Boogie for high-gain. Test non-ESP pickups for matching.
• Warranty: Register at esp-guitars.com for support; verify purchase from authorized retailers.

Why Choose Audio Shop Australia

• 100% genuine ESP LTD products with manufacturer warranty
• Fast, reliable delivery across Audio Shop Australia with secure checkout
• Free shipping on orders over $100 (under 20kg) at Audio Shop Australia
• Expert advice from our team of music professionals
• Trusted by guitarists and performers at Audio Shop Australia