ESP LTD KH-202 (Kirk Hammett)

Affordable Shredder Inspired by Metallica’s Lead Guitarist

The ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett Signature Electric Guitar in Black is an accessible entry into Kirk Hammett’s signature series, delivering the blistering speed and tonal ferocity of Metallica’s iconic riffs. Designed for hard rock and metal players across Australia, it features a basswood body, bolt-on maple neck, and ESP Designed LH-301 humbuckers for high-output aggression. With its reverse headstock, skull-and-bones inlays, and Floyd Rose Special tremolo, it’s a stage-ready beast that captures Hammett’s vibe without breaking the bank.

High-Quality Performance

The KH-202 is built to rock with precision and power:

• Body: Basswood for a balanced, resonant tone with clear highs and tight lows, ideal for aggressive riffs and soaring solos. The contoured double-cutaway shape ensures ergonomic comfort and easy upper-fret access.
• Tone: Blistering and versatile, from crunchy rhythms to piercing leads, with the ESP LH-301 humbuckers providing high-output punch and clarity that cuts through any mix.
• Pickups: ESP Designed LH-301N (neck) and LH-301B (bridge) humbuckers for tight, aggressive tones with minimal noise, perfect for Metallica-style shredding.
• Neck: Bolt-on maple with an extra-thin U-shape for lightning-fast playability. The rosewood fingerboard has a 350mm radius, 24 extra-jumbo frets, and Kirk’s signature skull-and-bones inlays for a unique, horror-inspired look.
• Bridge: Floyd Rose Special locking tremolo for dive-bombs and stable tuning, even under heavy use.
• Controls: Master volume and tone knobs with a 3-way toggle for straightforward tone shaping.

Users love its value and Hammett-inspired design, with a Thomann review stating, “The KH-202 is a shredding machine—fast neck, great humbuckers, and the Floyd Rose holds up well.” Some note the bolt-on neck offers plenty of sustain but may require setup for optimal tremolo performance.

Durable and Stylish Design

• Finishes: Gloss Black with a reverse headstock and black hardware for an aggressive, iconic aesthetic.
• Weight: Approximately 7.5–8.5 lbs, ensuring comfort for extended shred sessions.
• Hardware: Black chrome, with sealed die-cast tuners for tuning stability.
• Build Quality: Bolt-on maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, and solid basswood body for reliable stage use.

Backed by a 5-year warranty, it’s built to last. Prices range from $400–$500 USD (AUD 600–750), available at Audio Shop Australia and other retailers.

Key Performance Features

• Body: Basswood, double-cutaway
• Neck: Bolt-On Maple, Extra-Thin U Profile
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 350mm Radius, 24 Extra-Jumbo Frets, Skull-and-Bones Inlays
• Pickups: ESP LH-301N (Neck), LH-301B (Bridge) Humbuckers
• Bridge: Floyd Rose Special Locking Tremolo
• Tuners: Sealed Die-Cast
• Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone, 3-Way Toggle
• Warranty: 5 years

Notes

• Setup Tip: Adjust Floyd Rose for stability; professional setup recommended for beginners. 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 gloss 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 like Audio Shop Australia.

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