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. M-100 Geo/Lyn Scrmn/Dmn Bridge/pu rev/head/black
    Chuck

    Anyone want a Jet Black M-100 With a new Seymour Duncan George Lynch Screamin Demon Pickup In The Bridge? With reverse Headstock Floyd Rose ! For A Great Price!

  2. I need a f 200, an mh 200 or an mh100 esperately
    Matt

    I really need either an esp f 200, an mh 200 or an mh 100. If anyone has one, it is a crime if they do not notify with utmost speed!

  3. ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
    Scott

    i am selling my mint condition ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3. i have all the paperwork and original hardshell cases. i have plenty of pictures of each. if interested email me. im looking for $2000 for the JH-1 and $2500 for the JH-3.

    1. Re: ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
      John Randolph

      : i am selling my mint condition ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3. i have all the paperwork and original hardshell cases. i have plenty of pictures of each. if interested email me. im looking for $2000 for the JH-1 and $2500 for the JH-3.

      1. Re: ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
        Nathan

        Hi there,
        i was wondering if u have already sold your jh-1 flying-v or your jh-3?
        If you havnt could you send me some photo’s of them please
        Thanks alot
        Nathan

      2. Re: ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
        Matt

        pls send me the pics of the guitars. are they stil for sale?
        [email protected]

        : : i am selling my mint condition ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3. i have all the paperwork and original hardshell cases. i have plenty of pictures of each. if interested email me. im looking for $2000 for the JH-1 and $2500 for the JH-3.

        1. Re: ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
          matteo

          hi you still have the jh3 to sell?pls let me know..
          matteo

          : pls send me the pics of the guitars. are they stil for sale?
          : [email protected]

          : : : i am selling my mint condition ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3. i have all the paperwork and original hardshell cases. i have plenty of pictures of each. if interested email me. im looking for $2000 for the JH-1 and $2500 for the JH-3.

    2. Re: ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
      Mattias

      : i am selling my mint condition ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3. i have all the paperwork and original hardshell cases. i have plenty of pictures of each. if interested email me. im looking for $2000 for the JH-1 and $2500 for the JH-3.

      I would like pic’s of both guitars, are you stil interessed in selling them??

      (mail the pictures)

    3. Re: ESP JH-1 and ESP JH-3 FORSALE
      Kris

      I’m so intrested in buying one of your guitars…(if your still selling them..) i’d Love to see pics that would be awsome..

    1. Re: Want an ESP EXP.
      Marcus

      : Want an ESP EXP, I would prefer an esp exp – 200 but would buy an esp exp – 300 if I found one.

      I have a white EXP 200 I believe. Im not sure on the model? It is shaped like an explorer right? ARe you still looking for one?

      Thanks
      Marcus

  4. ESP LTD FB-200 For Sale
    Andy

    I have a mint Esp LTD FB-200 that is a mint- for sale.It comes with the ESP case that is has nice as the guitar.I am asking 600.00 for both.

  5. ESP guitar, model ES 335 "The Dot"
    Charles

    Hi,

    Approx. 15 years ago i have bought(second hand)an ESP semi acoustic model. Its an exact copy of an Gibson ES 335 "The Dot" co;our Wine red. I have searched the entire Internet but found NOTHING about this model. On the guitar itself there are no further marks or serial numbers. Does anybody have some details about this model en knowhow what this guitar is worth? Condition of the guitar is very well and it sounds great but after 15 years i’d like to buy an other guitar (An Gibson Les Paul or an Fender Stratocaster. Thanks in advance for your reaction en greetings from Holland

    Charles

    1. Re: ESP guitar, model ES 335 "The Dot"
      Chris

      :I dont know what your guitar could be, but I have the same problem with my ESP- Its a Horizon, origanal ESP (none of that LTD malarky), it seems like prob of the first, I can find it anywhere, its made in Japan solid body, 24 fret pointed headstock (unlike the horizons of 2day), it has a hot-rail at the neck and a double humbucker at the bridge, three way switch ebony neck, and creame binding, it sounds gordeous- prob the best ESP sound Ive literally ever heard I have the serial number engraved on the back of the headstock, I think its has to be at least 10 years old, but I would like to know the value, and age of this beauty. I bout it about 5 years ago from my local guitar shop second hand for _500pounds. But i would never get rid of it.
      -piece of advice, dont sell your esp, if its older than the LTD, models.

  6. buying a guitar
    shayne

    so how is the LTD ec300….anyone…….i’m planning on buying a new guitar….and it’s between the Parker P38 or the ec300…..gimme a write i’d appreciate it..thanks

  7. I really want to fnd Maveriks main web page DO YOU KNOW IT??
    J

    I am looking for mavericks main web page or any information about the Maverick X1 guitar. If you know anything ANYTHING please post it,

    thanks for your time

    1. Re: I really want to fnd Maveriks main web page DO YOU KNOW IT??
      Dill The Devil

      : I am looking for mavericks main web page or any information about the Maverick X1 guitar. If you know anything ANYTHING please post it,

      : thanks for your time

      I’ve got one – they’re absolutely killer guitars, 6-string, 24-fret, 2 double humbucker pick ups with more power than you’re realistically going to need, volume and tone roller dials recessed into the body, retial for about £500 usually (that’s what I paid for mine anyway). There’s a model higher up too that costs £750, that’s got lock-nuts or whatever they’re called to stop the strings going out of tune.

  8. Looking for KH-2 Neck-thru within Australia
    Ktulu

    Hi,

    I’m looking for a used KH-2 Neck-thru or bolt on, I guess, that is for sale within Australia.

    So if you have one of these beautiful guitars, you’re looking to sell it, and you’re within Australian shores email me please.
    Thanx

    Ktulu

  9. Hetfield Sig. Series
    John

    Why can’t i find anything on the website about the hetfield signature series. What have i missed. I am curious what mine is worth. I have the JH-2, in absolute mint condition, it’s been out of the case 3 times…if anyone knows, then please let me know

  10. Does Kirk Hammett have a new 7 string Guitar
    Evan

    i heard from my friend that Kirk has a new custom 7 string with a prototype 7 string pickup from emg, i was just wondering if any body could confirm that or not

      1. Re: Does Kirk Hammett have a new 7 string Guitar
        RequiemG3

        I read that he is having one made with EMG-707s, which were made in colaboration with Dino Cazares of Fear Factory.

        1. Re: Does Kirk Hammett have a new 7 string Guitar
          Cal

          The 7 string Kirk hammett uses is the f-207, he saw it in the recording studio a few years back and "fell in love with it". see ya

  11. Want an ESP - EXP 200 between $200 and $400.
    Aaron

    Want an ESP – EXP 200 between $200 and $400. Preferably in a black satin or black. Email me if you want to sale one.

    1. : I HAVE JH-3, NEAR MINT, TAKING OFFERS
      Hey ……..I have number 64….just curious and wanted to know your number. I gave $1500 for mine at Mars music in Raleigh NC this past Feb. and it was brand new. Wondered if that was a deal. Thanks, Mike

  12. I WANT PICS OF METALLICA GUITARS!
    Evan

    if you got pics of any type of guitar used by metallica please email them to me, i need them for a rare guitar site im developing with a guitar shop owner

  13. Jose Rubio Luthier 1967 #125 Guitar--Signed
    LM Pelland

    Do you have any information on this guitar?
    Would like to sell and don’t know what to ask?
    Any info. appreciated!
    Thank you

    1. Re: Jose Rubio Luthier 1967 #125 Guitar--Signed
      Miles Roberts

      I am interested in this guitar. Please contact me. Follow-up re-posted as my e-mail address did not appear to come up correctly.

    2. Re: Jose Rubio Luthier 1967 #125 Guitar--Signed
      Miles Roberts

      I am interested in this guitar. If you have it now, do you have any pictures? What sort of price is it?
      can you give a description i.e condition?
      regards,

      MIles Roberts.

  14. Taking offers on a Ouija guitar!!
    Darren

    Hi, I have a KH-2 Ouija guitar that I am currently taking offers on. This one is one of the original ones that was made and was produced in 1996. It is in super condition. Email your offer.

    Thanks, Darren

  15. *** ESP M50***
    Ryan

    Hi,

    My name is Ryan and i’m from chicago, i got your e mail address from a guitar site, i’m planning to buy a ESP M50, i can’t go for a better version b’coz i’m a beginner and i’m out of cash. here are my questions.

    1: is it a good reliable guitar?
    2: does it sound loud or does have have good effects
    3: does it make unwanted noice?
    4: is it a good guitar to play new tracks of metallica
    5: is the vintage tremelo good for lead?
    6: is the distortion good?

    hm… i’m confused, but i really like ESP, kindly reply to my mail. thanx a million in advance

    Regards

    1. Re: *** ESP M50***
      Kp

      I cant sell mine but ill give you info

      : 1: is it a good reliable guitar? It is built to last.
      : 2: does it sound loud or does have have good effects.great effects and it is well rounded
      : 3: does it make unwanted noice?most
      : 4: is it a good guitar to play new tracks of metallica.great with a Boss metal zone set with high lows and high treb and low mids
      : 5: is the vintage tremelo good for lead?Its no floyd rose but it works
      : 6: is the distortion good?great distortion and cleanes

      Try and get EMG 81s there bad ass

    2. Re: *** ESP M50***
      Kp

      I cant sell mine but ill give you info

      : 1: is it a good reliable guitar? It is built to last.
      : 2: does it sound loud or does have have good effects.great effects and it is well rounded
      : 3: does it make unwanted noice?most
      : 4: is it a good guitar to play new tracks of metallica.great with a Boss metal zone set with high lows and high treb and low mids
      : 5: is the vintage tremelo good for lead?Its no floyd rose but it works
      : 6: is the distortion good?great distortion and cleanes

      Try and get EMG 81s there bad ass

  16. Re: JH-2, Extremely WANTED
    Jose Davila

    : : Dude I need this guitar. I’ve been dreaming about it since the first time I saw it, please E-mail me the price of the legendary JH-2 so I can see if I can buy it.

    1. Re: I WANT A USED KH-2!!!
      Corrie Brown

      I have a used KH2 with a bolt-on neck, it is in great condition w/case. Are you still looking and what are you looking to pay?

      : I am looking for a used esp kirk hammett kh-2. I dont care if it neck-thru or bolt-on. please email me… [email protected]

  17. Ne 1 have an Explorer?
    Mitch

    Im looking for an Explorer Guitar (like the one James Hetfield from Metallica uses) in England could someone e-mail me if they no of one (cheap)!

  18. Looking for a Black EX-350 anyone know?
    Andrew

    does anyone know where a black EX-350 can be found….i know that they are rare but theres got to be one out here somewhere

  19. ESP USA Custom MH Series
    Matt

    Hey, I’m looking for a black ESP USA Custom MH Series guitar with EMG-81s, white binding (body, neck, headstock), neck-thru/set neck (25.5"), rosewood fretboard, maple neck, 24 XJ frets, with the original floyd rose. If you have one or know how I can get one, please contact me, thanks!!!

  20. ESP USA Custom MH Series
    Matt

    Hey, I’m looking for a black ESP USA Custom MH Series guitar with EMG-81s, white binding (body, neck, headstock), neck-thru/set neck (25.5"), rosewood fretboard, maple neck, 24 XJ frets, with the original floyd rose. If you have one or know how I can get one, please contact me, thanks!!!

  21. ESP EXP-300 Explorer for sale.
    Jeff Corder

    I have a black ESP LTD Explorer (EXP-300) with the 2 original pickups (EMG-HZ)
    and floyd rose tremelo. I bought it brand new 2 years ago and it’s been out of
    the case 3 times since then for a total of about 2 playing hours. It’s a beauty in
    PERFECT condition. I’m looking to sell it for $500 (firm) with hardshell case. Buyer
    pays the shipping. Email me at [email protected]. I’ll be taking pix of it this week.
    There is not a single scratch on this guitar.
    regards from Texas,
    Jeff

    1. Re: ESP EXP-300 Explorer for sale.
      John Randolph

      : I have a black ESP LTD Explorer (EXP-300) with the 2 original pickups (EMG-HZ)
      : and floyd rose tremelo. I bought it brand new 2 years ago and it’s been out of
      : the case 3 times since then for a total of about 2 playing hours. It’s a beauty in
      : PERFECT condition. I’m looking to sell it for $500 (firm) with hardshell case. Buyer
      : pays the shipping. Email me at [email protected]. I’ll be taking pix of it this week.
      : There is not a single scratch on this guitar.
      : regards from Texas,
      : Jeff

    2. Re: ESP EXP-300 Explorer for sale.
      esteban cataldo

      : I have a black ESP LTD Explorer (EXP-300) with the 2 original pickups (EMG-HZ)
      : and floyd rose tremelo. I bought it brand new 2 years ago and it’s been out of
      : the case 3 times since then for a total of about 2 playing hours. It’s a beauty in
      : PERFECT condition. I’m looking to sell it for $500 (firm) with hardshell case. Buyer
      : pays the shipping. Email me at [email protected]. I’ll be taking pix of it this week.
      : There is not a single scratch on this guitar.
      : regards from Texas,
      : Jeff

    3. Re: ESP EXP-300 Explorer for sale.
      Brandon Brugler

      hello, my name is Brandon and I was wondering if you could send me a picture of yuor explorer, thank you!

  22. ESP M-50 LTD
    Nick S.

    I would like a picture of a M-50 in black. I am going to buy one and i only see red ones. I also would like some stats on the guitar and its performance. Thanks alot-Nick S.

    1. Re: kh-2 ouija
      Doug

      : Hey I am looking for a Kh-2 ouija guitar for about $3000 or just alittle more. Can anyone help me out?

      : thank u
      : mike

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

  23. Wanted Esp M-251 or MH-301 GMB
    Sam Wolkowicz

    Hello,

    Yeah I’m lokking to but either a M-251 or MH- 301 and was wondering if anyone could help me out! I’m looking for either in Gunmetal Blue.

    Plus if you could give me your opinion on which guitar you think is better I’d appreciate it.

    Thanks

  24. Looking for James Hetfield Kirk Hammett guitars
    Jorge Marcos

    I have a bunch of money and I want to buy several guitars of Metallica I hope you can help me to find them
    I’d like to have the explorer guitars especially

    1. Re: Looking for James Hetfield Kirk Hammett guitars
      Corrie Brown

      I have a KH2 in great condition w/bolt-on neck and case. Are you still looking?

      : I have a bunch of money and I want to buy several guitars of Metallica I hope you can help me to find them
      : I’d like to have the explorer guitars especially

    2. Re: Looking for James Hetfield Kirk Hammett guitars
      GREG

      I HAVE A JH-2 AND IM LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WITH A BUNCH OF MONEY. ITS A JAMES HETFIELD CUSTOM AS YOU KNOW AND IN GOOD CONDITION. PLEASE CONTACT ME

      1. Re: Looking for James Hetfield Kirk Hammett guitars
        Elias Collado

        : I HAVE A JH-2 AND IM LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WITH A BUNCH OF MONEY. ITS A JAMES HETFIELD CUSTOM AS YOU KNOW AND IN GOOD CONDITION. PLEASE CONTACT ME

        Hi, Im Interested. How much do you ask $$$?

    3. Re: Looking for James Hetfield Kirk Hammett guitars
      GREG

      : I have a bunch of money and I want to buy several guitars of Metallica I hope you can help me to find them
      : I’d like to have the explorer guitars especially

      1. Re: Looking for James Hetfield Kirk Hammett guitars
        Avenger alias Mister Shah

        You damn Son of a Bitch.Its your fault that i have no guitar like that.Because of people like you(i have a bunch of money) pissy rich nonsense talking monkeys…. Ahh god piss off!

  25. JH-2 possibly for sale
    ansley stewart

    I have a ESP JH-2 but not just the regular signature model, I have James Hetfield’s actual guitar that he used in the I Dissapear video. I have proof. Any offers? Email me at [email protected], I dont really wanna sell it but I am about to go off to college so I need moola, but I need a very good offer to sell this piece of metallica memorabilia.

    1. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
      Jamie

      Hey man…I know you have probably sold the guitar..But I would love to know how you got it..If your not lying thats sick man..Howd you get it?

    2. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
      Mesnil Serge

      Great Man!!!! I’m french and I’m a student in London. I don’t think that I’ll have enough money to buy such a F…… guitar. I love Metallica and I just wanted to congratulate you.
      I don’t know if you’ve already sold it. But I’d like to buy an electric guitar and I’ll be pleased if you just tell me how you get this incredible one.
      Don’t forget answering me man.
      CIAO.

    3. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
      Shawn

      That’s incredible that you have that guitar. I’m fifteen years old and I would do anything for it. I would love to hear how you got this guitar and I would love to purchase it from you. But at my age I don’t exactly have the highest income. The most I could spend as of this moment is only about $500. But I wold spen $1000 on it, but it will take a little time for me to get that money. I know you probably have much much better offers for this guitar, but I will be the happiest person alive if I could own this guitar. Thanks.

    4. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
      johnny stewart

      That is the coolest guitar that I have ever seen! I probably can’t afford it, but I would love to see a pic and know the story behind how you got it and where i could get one like it. Thanks

    5. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
      Matt

      I’ll give you 500 because that is all i can afford. Of course i know this is not nearly enough. But why the hell would you want to sell this. This is an irreplaceable item. Unless of course you are lying.

      1. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
        ansley

        I am not lying man, I have no reason to lie, but sometimes things have to go for an education and this is the only thing I have really of value that I could get a lot of money for, but I am sorry but 500 isnt enough, cant barely get books in college for 500.

        1. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
          bill

          Uh, how the heck would you end up with the JH-2 with the sliver diamond plate. Thats like saying you have the green hot rod flamed JH-1. If you had THAT guitar, you’d realize that its worth double or tripple that of a regular JH-2. I think you’re full of shit personally.

        2. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
          Ian

          I can do a trade in and you can list it on ebay and get a thousand or so.

          perfect condition a “blue” Hondo II electric guitar, with all tools, a danelectro distortion pedal, gig bag “guitar bag combo backpack and carry”, some extra Ernie ball strings, a whammy bar, a guitar strap, a tuner, 2 input cord, and a guitar tuner. Also included 35 watt amp/Pa system. Imput for a mic, bass guitar, electric guitar and a foot pedal. It has a built in depth switch, bass, and tremble along with distortion.
          Also a USA MADE PEAVEY STRAT STYLE NECK THRU GUITAR WITH ORIGANL CASE.
          ALSO I HAVE A PSX@ SETUP WITH ACESSORIES AND 5 GAMES.
          Lets work something out. I’m dying for this guitar.

        3. Re: JH-2 possibly for sale
          Ian

          I can do a trade in and you can list it on ebay and get a thousand or so.

          perfect condition a “blue” Hondo II electric guitar, with all tools, a danelectro distortion pedal, gig bag “guitar bag combo backpack and carry”, some extra Ernie ball strings, a whammy bar, a guitar strap, a tuner, 2 input cord, and a guitar tuner. Also included 35 watt amp/Pa system. Imput for a mic, bass guitar, electric guitar and a foot pedal. It has a built in depth switch, bass, and tremble along with distortion.
          Also a USA MADE PEAVEY STRAT STYLE NECK THRU GUITAR WITH ORIGANL CASE.
          ALSO I HAVE A PSX@ SETUP WITH ACESSORIES AND 5 GAMES.
          Lets work something out. I’m dying for this guitar.
          : I am not lying man, I have no reason to lie, but sometimes things have to go for an education and this is the only thing I have really of value that I could get a lot of money for, but I am sorry but 500 isnt enough, cant barely get books in college for 500.

  26. Ken Lawrence explorer
    ansley stewart

    I just purchased a Ken Lawrence explorer, it took 10 months to get and it cost me upwards of 5 grand, but it is the most beautiful guitar you will ever put your hands on. My guitar is almost exactly like James except I have a different top wood (Koa) James is Chechen,and I have a different inlay on the fretboard, I have a tribal dragon that is inlayed in black mother-of-pearl. It is a great guitar, I would highly suggest anyone with the money and paitience to get one. If anyone has anymore questions about any of James’s guitars or Kirk’s guitars just email me at [email protected]. I have a bunch of the signature guitars from ESP and I have the Ken Lawrence, some of my guitars include the JH-2 the KH-4 and the KH-1. So let the questions flow my friends.

  27. Explorer guitars
    Mike Morrison

    If anyone has a good used or new one for a low price (200-400$) e-mail me back as soon as posible. Send a pic. if posible.
    Thank You.

  28. ESP KH-2 Neck Thru
    Bill

    I’m looking to buy a neck thru KH-2. E-mail me if your selling one. Thanks. I’m not looking for the bolt on series only neck thru.

  29. Best deal Ever!!!!!
    Ian

    I’ll trade my new Playstation 2, with. Dvd remote, usb mod chip, 2 anolog controllers, 2 memory cards, a new gameshark, verticle stand, 5 games, Includs all the hook ups and wires.

    I’ll trade all this for a esp kh-2 or a kh-3

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