ESP LTD EC-1000
Rating: 4.5 / 5
A single-cut metal powerhouse. Les Paul-style looks with a fast neck, active pickups and modern build — a gigging metal favourite.
As an Amazon Associate and partner of the retailers above, Guitar Gear earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability checked recently but vary; the linked retailer is the source of truth.
Pros
- Tight, articulate high-gain tone
- Active pickups (EMG/Fishman)
- Fast set-thru neck
- Premium build and looks
Cons
- Pricier than other picks
- Active pickups need a battery
- Heavier single-cut body
Heavy in every sense
The EC-1000 takes the single-cut shape and builds it for metal: a set-thru neck for sustain and upper-fret access, premium hardware, and (on most versions) active EMG or Fishman pickups that stay tight and clear under enormous gain. It looks classy and hits like a hammer.
Where to buy: Check the current price of the ESP LTD EC-1000 on Amazon →
It''s a step up in price, but the build quality, playability and brutal-yet-articulate tone make it one of the most popular gigging metal guitars going.