ESP Guitar Company, Inc

The ESP Guitar Company (Electric Sound Products), located in North Hollywood, California, is a prominent manufacturer of electric guitars and basses.

The company was created by Hisatake Shibuya in 1975 as a chain of music retail stores in Japan. In 1983, ESP started making replacement parts and started making hand-made custom guitars in 1985. In 1986, ESP opened an office in New York City to make custom guitars for American players. In 1996, ESP started a new brand, the LTD. The LTD guitars are similar to ESP guitars and more affordable. According to ESP, LTDs are made on an assembly line in Korea from cheaper materials than ESPs, which are handcrafted in Japan. They still provide the optional custom service which made them in the first place.

ESP found fame by providing guitars for guitarists who went on to become leading exponents of thrash metal music in the 1980s, most famously to Metallica. As a result of these endorsements, ESP has gone on to become one of the largest suppliers of guitars for use in heavy music.

936 thoughts on “ESP Guitar Company, Inc”

  1. Esp Ltd F100 Need Pictures of it Black Cherry, comments
    Cal

    i want to see what this beast looks like in Black Cherry, and if you have any likes / dislikes about the guitar in general it would be great if you would let me know.

    1. Re: Esp Ltd F100 Need Pictures of it Black Cherry, comments
      jason

      : i want to see what this beast looks like in Black Cherry, and if you have any likes / dislikes about the guitar in general it would be great if you would let me know.

      i like it the only thing i dont like about it is it picks up fingerprints real bad on the finish is very shiny other than that love it i will try to get you a pic

    1. Re: I NEED TO KNOW WHERE I CAN FIND AN ESP WAVE CASTER (KIRK , CUNNING STUNTS)
      Slammer Sam

      As far as I know there is only one of those in exsistance. Kirk had one made just for him, at about $3000+ I think. But hey, that’s just a drop in the bucket for him.

    1. Wave caster
      Peter fedden

      I just saw ur post online from way back when. My father and I built Kirk his three wave asters seventeen years ago. We never knew the buzz about them online until now. We are currently producing four limited edition wavecasters and have one ready to ship. My name is Peter,my fathers name is George, you can reach us at 631 833 7788 if u are still interested. We have pictures and options for you to choose everything. Let us know. Good day.

    1. Re: I need to know where I can find a black diamond plate explorer like the jh2.
      uh

      You need 3000 dollars then. Your best bet is to by an older model ESP LTD EXPLORER and then you can have a black duamond plate put on for 275 dollars. So you are looking at 700-800 at the cheapest. Email me for the link for the diamond plate guy.

  2. ESP EC-1000 and H-1000...
    Lauren

    What is the difference between these two guitars, besides the shape, that could help me decide. I can’t find any reviews on the H-1000, so any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Lauren 😉

    1. Re: ESP EC-1000 and H-1000...
      casey

      : What is the difference between these two guitars, besides the shape, that could help me decide. I can’t find any reviews on the H-1000, so any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Lauren 😉

      As far as I know, the H series guitars are based on the Horizon body style while the EC’s are based on the Eclipse body style which is basically a Les Paul. I know the EC’s are a little ‘chunkier’ while the horizons seem to be a good choice for metal guitar. As far as electronics, seems to be fairly close. Both great guitars!

    1. Re: esp exp explorer
      Slippery Noodle

      Keep an eye on Ebay. Since the economy is in the dumper, they have been surfacing frequently. Expect to spend $1400 to $2000 on a standard black ESP Custom Explorer.

  3. Forsale: ESP KH-2 Relic Kirk Hammett Signature Series
    Bill

    I’m selling a mint ESP KH-2 Relic. It comes with full warranty card, Certificate of Authenticy, and ESP Hardshell Case. It’s number 009 out of 100. I’m looking for your best offer. E-mail me if your interested. Thanks.

  4. Who whant's to sell his esp explorer ltd or custom?
    Thomas

    Does anyone have an esp explorer ltd, costom or a jh-2 for sale? I’am looking for a long time now, but i won’t give up, just name a reasonable price and we will see.

  5. ESP Set Neck EXP Forsale
    Scott

    hey,
    i have an original ESP Black Set Neck Explorer in dead mint condition. it is all black with a dark rosewood fret board and mother of pearl dot inlays. not a scratch on the whole guitar. it is set up just like james’ with an EMG 81 at the bridge and EMG 60 at the neck. it also is set up with 2 volume control knobs. i also have installed black sperzel locking tuners. let me know if you are interested.

    [email protected]

    1. Re: ESP Set Neck EXP Forsale
      lpo603

      : hey,
      : i have an original ESP Black Set Neck Explorer in dead mint condition. it is all black with a dark rosewood fret board and mother of pearl dot inlays. not a scratch on the whole guitar. it is set up just like james’ with an EMG 81 at the bridge and EMG 60 at the neck. it also is set up with 2 volume control knobs. i also have installed black sperzel locking tuners. let me know if you are interested.

      : [email protected]

      how much are you asking for it or have you sold it?

  6. Selling ESP KH-2 A.S.A.P!!!
    Matt Richards

    I have a ESP KH-2 that I would like to sell ASAP. Bought brand new in November 2001 still in near mint to mint condition. E-mail me if interested.

    1. Re: Selling ESP KH-2 A.S.A.P!!!
      nick

      : I have a ESP KH-2 that I would like to sell ASAP. Bought brand new in November 2001 still in near mint to mint condition. E-mail me if interested.

      How much??

    1. Re: identifying my guitar
      cheryl

      My mom died and I inherited her 12 string acutstic and I want to find out what type it is but so far no luck. The only clue I have is a model # on the back that # is 319.12270000. The 12270 are underlined any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

  7. Explorer for sale
    Tony

    I have a Gibson not ESP explorer for sale. its black neck thru, excellent condition im looking for $950.00 including shipping.
    please let me know if interested

  8. ESP Explorer custom for sale
    Jason Mrdjen

    I am custom ordering an ESP EXP custom just like the one James Hetfield used during …And Justice For All tour. ESP of Japan will still make the EXP model as long as you pick it up in Japan. so if you want one with a set-neck in black or white just like James Hetfield’s it will cost $3000.00 which includes case, tax and shipping. I will be picking this guitar up in Japan so I will ship it to you anywhere in the U.S. Just E-mail me if you are interested because I will order up to 2 more guitars in black or white its up to you. E-mail at [email protected]

  9. Ken Lawrence
    Alan

    [The body of this post has been reconstituted from replies so it may differ from what was originally written.]

    Help, I need a photo with the ken lawrence inlays.

    1. Ken Lawrence explorer wanted!!!
      jessy

      i need a james hetfield ken lawrence explorer for continue to live!!! any comment or info please e-mail me!!!!!!

      1. Re: Ken Lawrence explorer wanted!!!
        Sean

        : I am in love with James’ Ken Lawrence Explorer. I want to get ESP to custom make a guitar like that for me but i need some pictures of the guitar and cant seem to find any good ones. Could someone please help me? Email me. Thank you.

    2. Re: Ken Lawrence
      Casey Kenny

      : Help, I need a photo with the ken lawrence inlays.
      I Had A custom ESP Ken Lawrence Explorer made to ad the hardest part was finding the "Father and Son Camping" Inlays, I actuilly used my DVD player to zoom in on the guitar and then I used that picture.

      1. Re: Ken Lawrence
        Casey Kenny

        : : Help, I need a photo with the ken lawrence inlays.
        : I Had A custom ESP Ken Lawrence Explorer made to and the hardest part was finding the "Father and Son Camping" Inlays, I actuilly used my DVD player to zoom in on the guitar and then I used that picture.

    1. Re: JH-2 for sale
      Chan Murch

      Hey can you send me some pics of the guitar and tell me how much you want for it. Is there anything wrong with the guitar that i should know. I already own the KH-2 model, and i really want the JH-2. my email is [email protected] Thank you.

    2. Re: JH-2 for sale
      Jay Horner

      I’ve always heard things are only worth what people will buy them for….but if you’re looking to sell it, I’m looking to buy it. Is there anything wrong with it (scratches, knicks, marks of any kind, etc.), do you still have the COA and the ESP hard shell case? Is everything entact? Send me an email.

  10. Custom Black ESP Explorer for sale
    desdinova

    Hell’O..I have the above now defunct lawsuit explorer with the ‘custom’ written on the headstock. Black with emg’s. NOT LTD!…asking for $1500? if its ok…email me..my ebay account is poor_twisted_me and u can check my feedback..thanx

    1. Re: Custom Black ESP Explorer for sale
      Jay Horner

      : Why don’t you put it on ebay with a $1500 reserve? I’d definitely be interested, but I’d really like to see pics and a good description…I’m a big fan of the whole ebay thing. Tell me what you think, because I really don’t think you’d have too much trouble selling it on ebay with that kind of a reserve.
      : Hell’O..I have the above now defunct lawsuit explorer with the ‘custom’ written on the headstock. Black with emg’s. NOT LTD!…asking for $1500? if its ok…email me..my ebay account is poor_twisted_me and u can check my feedback..thanx

  11. MY ESP EXPLORER HAS BEEN SOLD!
    bill

    Everyone that continues to email me, I HAVE SOLD IT, two months ago. Please do NOT email me about it anymore. It would have been great to get all these replies THEN, when it took me WEEKS to sell it!

  12. i want esp ex 200 or ltd good conditions.
    victor

    im looking to buy an esp ex 200 black or white, i want it very good conditions if you have something for me please feel free to writte back.

    1. Re: i want esp ex 200 or ltd good conditions.
      whitney

      : I have a black LTD EX-200. Willing to sell if the price is right. Only been placed twice, hard cover case

  13. ESP S800
    Marco Scaringella

    I got a s800 model. It’s got a beautiful ash body, 24 frets original Floyd bridge, Duncans, gold hardware. Anybody knows in which year ESP made this wonderful guitar?

    1. Re: ESP S800
      anders

      : I got a s800 model. It’s got a beautiful ash body, 24 frets original Floyd bridge, Duncans, gold hardware. Anybody knows in which year ESP made this wonderful guitar?

      yes i know 1991

  14. Left esp white explorer
    Javier Hetfield Wylde

    I want an let esp explorer in white like james hetfield’s and justice for all… The price must be $400-$500 I’m selling an Squier right afinnity strat in $100 anyone interested e-mail me

  15. ESP KH-4 Forsale
    Bill Miller

    I’m selling my ESP KH-4 for $1200. It is in mint condition and comes with ESP Hardshell case, and Certificate of Authenticity. E-mail me if your interested. Thanks.

    1. Re: ESP KH-4 Forsale
      omar najar

      : I’m selling my ESP KH-4 for $1200. It is in mint condition and comes with ESP Hardshell case, and Certificate of Authenticity. E-mail me if your interested. Thanks.

      1. Re: ESP KH-4 Forsale
        tyler

        : : I’m selling my ESP KH-4 for $1200. It is in mint condition and comes with ESP Hardshell case, and Certificate of Authenticity. E-mail me if your interested. Thanks.

        pics pics pics

  16. ESP KH-2 NECK-THRU WANTED!!!!!
    bart

    hi guys did anyone of you sell an esp kh2 with neck-thru construction??
    not the bolt on only the neck-thru construction
    feel free to email and we discussed the price

    thanx Bart

    1. Re: ESP KH-2 NECK-THRU WANTED!!!!!
      E.J

      I have a neck thru ESP KH-502, that has also been autographed by Kirk Hammett. The guitar is mint and comes with its own hardshell case. I’m asking $1200 US or best offer.

  17. selling kh-3 mint for 900
    kh-3

    I am selling my KH-3. It is in perfect condition, I just need money badly. I have pics and if you are interested email me at . I am selling this guitar at a reasonable price so don’t miss out!

  18. Taking offers on OUIJA guitar!!!
    Mr. OUIJA

    Im taking offers on the esp kh-2 ouija guitar. it has the moon and star inlay. guitar is mint. no scratches,dings or anything wrong. please let me know of your interested.
    Thank you

    1. Re: Taking offers on OUIJA guitar!!!
      Randy

      I already have one of these guitars but I am looking for a backup so you don’t need to send me pictures. What is the condition of the guitar, how old is it, and what is your asking price? Feel free to email me if you are selling one of these guitars or one of the other KH-2 or KH-3 with custom paintjobs [email protected] .

      Thanks
      Randy R

    2. Re: Taking offers on OUIJA guitar!!!
      Tom

      : Im taking offers on the esp kh-2 ouija guitar. it has the moon and star inlay. guitar is mint. no scratches,dings or anything wrong. please let me know of your interested.
      : Thank you

    1. Re: KH-1?
      tom simpson

      : If anybody is selling a kh-1 or kh-3 please let me know thanks

      Bro, I have one but it doesn’t have the case or letter of authenticity. It is excellent condition and play great. Interested email ASAP because I just email three dealers but would rather sell it to someone who won’t just try to make a profit. Thanks

  19. looking for a replica of any jamez hetfield esp exp guitars
    mike

    looking for a replica of any jamez hetfield esp exp guitars between 200-800 dollers. please e-mail me as soon as posible if you have one

    1. Re: looking for a replica of any jamez hetfield esp exp guitars
      bill

      : looking for a replica of any jamez hetfield esp exp guitars between 200-800 dollers. please e-mail me as soon as posible if you have one

      ud be looking for an ltd then, they go for 700-900….esp’s are more.

  20. Left-handed guitars
    RequiemG3

    If any one has any left-handed guitars for sale please email me. I’m looking for mainly explorers and flying Vs, but I’ll check out whatever you’ve got. Thanx.

    1. Re: ouija kh 22222222222222222
      JESSEZ28

      : I want to buy this esp please email me if you have the one with the moon inlays….thanks

      Look on ebay there is one for 1,500 with buy it now hurry up

  21. genuine or replica neck as in hetfields explorer
    Phil

    Is there any crafts men/women out there who can make me up a decent replica neck and headstock for the Ken Lawrence shaped Explorer James uses on stage?….i play his part in my tribute band "Blackened", i have a suitable body but the head would have to be bolt on

    http://www.wrekinskin.co.uk

    also pics of james’s tattoos please

    1. Re: ESP KH-4
      JESSE

      :I called esp and they said they can make it through the custon shop. they also said that it is the same as the kh-2 the only thing diffrent is that is has a pick guard.They also said they would not make it the same as kirk’s guitar the only thing it won’t have is the 4 letter word on the 12th fret. hope this helps you on your search.

  22. looking for LEFT HANDED esp
    joe devine

    hi, im looking for a left handed esp for around $700.00-800.00 dollars, if anyone knows where i can find one or has one could you please let me know, thanks
    joe

    1. Re: looking for LEFT HANDED esp
      mishal almutairi

      : hi, im looking for a left handed esp for around $700.00-800.00 dollars, if anyone knows where i can find one or has one could you please let me know, thanks
      : mishal

      1. Re: looking for LEFT HANDED esp
        jesse

        Hi I am lookin for a left handed guitar for about 300 to 500 dollars hoping that it might be a viper series so if any finds one let me know.

        thankx

    1. Re: kahler tremolos
      Janvier Musson

      : can someone please help me,i really need a kahler trem,pre,a flyer ….but i cant seem to get nothin!!! help!!!

      I found them on the web & ordered a new locking nut for my system, but now they’ve disappeared & i’m none the wiser. I stupidly neglected to note their snailmail address except that it was in Cal & was different from the one on my old installation instructions. However the guy who responded to my e’s was Scott Miller & the ph no was 714.239.1550. It’s definitely the same product.
      Now if that’s any help to you & you locate them do me a favour & get on their case for me. I need that part !@!
      cheers mate
      janvier Musson

    2. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
      ELIO E PARDAVE

      HELLO , MY NAME IS ELIO I’D LIKE TO KNOW HOW I CAN GET A KAHLER TREMOLO OR IF THERE’S A WAY THAT I CAN GET MY HANDS ON A CATALOG ON GUITAR PARTS , THANKS

      ELIO

    1. Re: KH-2 OUJIA
      Doug

      : IF ANY HAS A KH-2 OUJIA FOR SALE OR KNOWS WHO IS SELLING ONE PLEASE LET ME KNOW

      :: I have a mint condition KH-2 Ouija with moon and star inlays for sale

  23. Trade nice Ibanez 540p usa for Explorer
    Brian Braham

    I have a very nice 1989 gun metal blue Ibanez 540p made in Bensalem, PA. USA. It has a floyd rose tremolo, Dimarzio pick-ups, wizard neck and a strat style body. It comes with the original hard shell case.To see the guitar go to ebay and type in item #1518410367 I am hoping to trade it for a nice ESP, or Gibson Explorer. If you are interested in buying the Ibanez just e-mail me at [email protected]

  24. Alvarez 12-String for sale
    Dan

    I have an Alvarez mod DY-76 12 string guitar for sale w/Alvarez hardshell case. The guitar was purchased new by my parents in 1977. Has a few minor "beauty marks", but is in great playable shape. The appearance does not show the blemishes at first glance. Just trying to be as honest about condition as possible. $400 plus shipping OBO

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