ESP Announces New Models for 2009!E

For many years, youʼve had to anxiously await the start of the NAMM Show to get the news on the latest additions to the ESP and LTD line. But this year, weʼre letting the cat out of the bag early! Before you read more, get yourself a napkin or something to mop up the drool. Ready? Here we go… New Signature Series Models
Four new models have been introduced for Alexi Laiho of Children of Bodom. Using a similar body design to his earlier models with new finishes and feature enhancements, the ESP ALEXI-Blacky, ESP ALEXI-Scythe, LTD ALEXI-600-Blacky, and LTD ALEXI-600-Scythe will be available soon at ESP dealers and international distributors.

ESPʼs long-standing relationship with George Lynch is represented in this yearʼs new offerings with the LTD GL-200MT. Based on Lynchʼs famous ESP M-1 Tiger, the GL-200MT offers an affordable alternative for players who want to get into one of Lynchʼs most iconic guitars.

ESP and LTDʼs Will Adler (Lamb of God) signature models have been spruced up with a new black camouflage finish. The ESP Will Adler, LTD WA-600, and LTD WA-200 are now offered in the sleek new look.

Gus G of Firewind was worked with ESP to offer major enhancements to his signature models. The ESP GUS G. NT and LTD GUS-600NT now have a neck-thru-body design, and a Tonepros bridge/tailpiece.

Finally, Page Hamilton of Helmet celebrates his 20th year as an ESP player with the introduction of the ESP Page Hamilton MG and the LTD PH-600MG. These guitars are based on Hamiltonʼs go-to guitar that heʼs used on many projects over the past two decades, and is designed to replicate all the wear and tear on the original custom model. Immediately identifiable with its hot magenta finish, the guitar also features Pageʼs custom components including a Dimarzio Air Zone pickup.

While weʼre talking about the Signature Series, one side note: while weʼre giving you info on a bunch of new models, you may have to wait for NAMM for a couple of other big announcements in this regard. Hey, we never said weʼd tell you everything, did we? Stay tuned.

New LTD Deluxe, Graphic and Standard Series
Letʼs start off with something many of you have been requesting for a long time: the LTD EC-1000FR! Thatʼs right: the famous EC model now is available with a Floyd Rose. Itʼs an awesome-looking guitar with a see-thru black flamed maple top, and will be great for anyone that wants a Floyd tremolo in a comfortable 24.75” single cutaway body style.

Our new Graphic Series models are pretty amazing as well. Designed by renowned artist Mister Sam, the three new limited edition “Clockwork Zombie” models (LTD EC-CZ, LTD EX-CZ, and LTD VIPER-CZ) use a sinister combination of skeletal parts and mechanized components for a vicious look. Artist Chris Compston, who has designed many of the great-looking ESP customs youʼve seen over the years, has given us the new anime-styled LTD EX-Outlaw and LTD EX-Avatar, also limited edition guitars that are as cool for collectors as they are for serious players. Rounding out the new graphics series models is the LTD Screaming Skull (based on a popular custom model) and the LTD Viper-MM (designed with extreme motorsports team Metal Mulisha).

The LTD Standard Series takes a step up in 2009 with the new “401” models. Replacing the current “400” models, the new models have subtle yet significant improvements in features, cosmetics, tonewoods, and available finishes. The new models include the LTD AX-401FM, LTD EC-401VF, LTD EC-401, LTD EC-401FM, LTD EX-401, LTD EX-401DX, LTD F-401FM, LTD FX-401SM, LTD H-401FM, LTD M-401 ,LTD MH-401QM, LTD MH-401QMNT, LTD MHB-401, LTD PB-401, LTD V-401, LTD V-401DX, LTD VB-401, LTD VIPER-401, and LTD VIPER-401FM. Similarly, the 7-string LTD VIPER-417 and 8-string LTD FM-418 have received improvements over their predecessors.

LTD Basses
Much like the guitars, LTDʼs bass line has been revamped with slight changes in colors, inlays, and more. The LTD AX-414, LTD B-414SM, LTD B-415SM, LTD B 416SM, LTD EC-414, LTD F-414FM, LTD F-415FM, LTD SURVEYOR-414, LTD SURVEYOR-415, and LTD VIPER-414 will all soon be available at authorized ESP/LTD dealers.