ESP Guitars: Manufacturing, Popularity, and History Explained

by Joost Nusselder | Updated on:  February 26, 2023

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ESP is a Japanese guitar manufacturer, primarily focused on the production of electric guitars and basses. They are based in both Japan and USA, with two distinct product lines for each respective market. ESP Company manufactures instruments under several names, including “ESP Standard”, “ESP Custom Shop”, “LTD Guitars and Basses”, “Navigator”, “Edwards Guitar and Basses” and “Grassroots”. Their products range from Japanese-built custom shop instruments to lower end mass-production Korean, Indonesian and Chinese made instruments.

ESP Company, Limited manufactures some of the most popular guitars and basses. It is a Japanese guitar maker best known for its electric guitars. ESP focuses on the heavier side of guitar playing, with metal and hard rock genres in particular.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the history of ESP and talk about their lineup of electric guitars and bases. 

We’ll also cover some of the standout features of their instruments, which will demonstrate why these guitars are so popular. 

ESP logo

What is ESP Guitars?

ESP designs, manufactures, and markets electric guitars, basses, acoustic guitars, pickups, cases, and guitar accessories.

ESP instruments is a Japanese brand known for its quality craftsmanship and innovative design. They offer a range of products, from entry-level to professional-grade models. 

ESP guitars are very popular amongst rock, metal, and hardcore players. Some of the most famous artists who have used ESP instruments include Metallica’s James Hetfield, Iron Maiden’s Dave Murray, and Disturbed’s Dan Donegan.

The ESP brand was founded in 1975 in Tokyo, Japan, by Hisatake Shibuya. ESP was originally a manufacturer of guitar parts and custom parts before it started making instruments from A to Z. 

Today, they have separate product lines for each market and have offices in both Tokyo and Los Angeles.

The American ESP headquarters are currently located in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, United States. Japanese headquarters are in Tokyo. 

Currently, Masanori Yamada is the company president, whereas Matt Masciandaro is the CEO.

ESP guitars have been used in many styles of music, from blues, jazz, and rock to heavy metal. 

They are well known for the quality of their craftsmanship and tones, as well as the playability of their instruments. They continue to be popular today and are widely used by many top musicians. 

Are ESP guitars made in Japan?

These days people are always confused about whether ESP is a Japanese brand that makes its guitars in Japan or if it’s an American brand. 

It should not be surprising that ESP, a major player in the guitar market, distributes production among facilities in more than one country. 

Because of this, they are able to produce both expensive guitars for use by professional musicians and more reasonably priced models for the general public.

The same series of guitars and basses are still available under the name ESP E-II. All E-II models are still produced in Japan at the ESP-owned factory, just like the ESP Standard guitars and basses.

All of the Original Series and Custom Shop ESP guitars are actually handcrafted by luthiers in Japan. The Standard Series instruments are made in a Japanese factory.

But ESP also has the ESP USA subsidiary, which is the American part of their brand.

ESP USA guitar models are also available, and they are 100% made in the USA.

So the short answer is that some of the ESP instruments are made in Japan, and some in the USA.

ESP Guitars & Custom Shop: A Brief History

The Early Years

It all started in 1975 when Hisatake Shibuya opened a shop called Electric Sound Products (ESP) in Tokyo, Japan. ESP provided custom replacement parts for guitars and also began making guitars under the ESP and Navigator brand. 

But the brand was originally founded to create guitar parts and custom parts for various instruments.

In 1983, ESP parts were introduced in the US, and ESP started crafting custom instruments for local New York artists like Page Hamilton (Helmet), Vernon Reid (Living Colour), Vinnie Vincent and Bruce Kulick (KISS), Sid McGinnis of Late Night with David Letterman and Ronnie Wood (The Rolling Stones). 

ESP also introduced the 400 Series as the first production line to be distributed in the US.

The Kramer Connection

ESP began making the bodies and necks for Kramer Guitars, and other manufacturers were using ESP as an OEM, such as Robin Guitars, Schecter Guitar Research, and DiMarzio. 

Many traits of the Kramer line are still visible, including neck construction and body bevels. ESP even tooled up for Tom Anderson’s shaved bolt-on neck heel on the Schecter bodies.

The George Lynch Signature Model

Best strings for electric guitar
Best strings for electric guitar

In 1985, George Lynch discovered ESP while on tour in Tokyo. 

He walked into an ESP shop looking for a replacement neck and learned that ESP also built custom guitars. 

As a result, his famous ESP Kamikaze was made, and ESP released George Lynch’s Kamikaze as its first signature model. ESP soon introduced the M1 Standard, MI Custom, Horizon Custom, and the Surveyor bass.

The Move to the US

ESP based its headquarters in a loft in downtown New York City on 19th Street in 1985. In 1989, the headquarters were moved to 48th Street near other music stores. 

Between 1990 and 1992, ESP expanded its Signature Series as well as its standard product line. 

The US replacement parts business was discontinued in order to focus solely on their guitar and bass line, as well as the Custom Shop series.

In 1993, ESP moved its headquarters again but this time to Los Angeles, on Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood. 

In 1995, the LTD series was created to produce ESP’s high-quality products at a more affordable price.

The ESP Series: different types of ESP guitars

ESP has something for everyone, from Superstrat-styled guitars to Flying V-styled guitars, Star-shaped guitars, and more. 

Plus, they have two separate Japan-only lines of guitars, the Grassroots and Edwards. 

Custom Shop & ESP Original Series

Fans of custom guitars like ESP because they offer all types of customization options. 

Their Original series and Custom Shop guitars are all handcrafted in Japan and are the perfect way to get your hands on that classic ESP sound.

At the company’s Custom Shop branch in Tokyo, these models are handcrafted by master luthiers and feature a degree of finesse and detail that seems almost robotic. 

The guitars in these series are made for the most exacting players who only want the highest-quality tonewoods and parts, making no concessions to aesthetics!

But the ESP Custom Shop and ESP Original Series are two separate product lines produced by ESP Guitars.

The ESP Custom Shop is a division of ESP Guitars that specializes in creating high-end, custom-made guitars and basses to the exact specifications of individual customers. 

These instruments are typically built by master craftsmen using premium materials, and they can feature unique designs, finishes, and features that are not available in standard ESP models. 

The ESP Custom Shop offers a wide range of options for customers to choose from, including body shapes, woods, neck profiles, fret sizes, pickups, hardware, and more.

The ESP Original Series, on the other hand, is a line of guitars and basses that are designed and built by ESP’s own team of master builders in Japan. 

These instruments are made in limited quantities and are intended to showcase the highest level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. 

The ESP Original Series includes a variety of models, ranging from classic shapes like the Stratocaster-style Horizon and the Les Paul-style Eclipse, to more modern designs like the Arrow and the FRX.

Both the ESP Custom Shop and the ESP Original Series represent the pinnacle of quality and craftsmanship offered by ESP Guitars, and they are highly sought-after by professional musicians and collectors who demand the very best in terms of playability, tone, and aesthetics.

Standard Series

For those of us who don’t have the cash to splash on a handcrafted guitar, ESP also offers their Standard Series guitars, which are factory-made in Japan. 

These are perfect for those who want to get the ESP sound without breaking the bank. 

The ESP Standard Series is a line of electric guitars and basses manufactured by ESP Guitars. 

The Standard Series is considered the core line of instruments produced by ESP, and it includes a wide range of models that are designed for different playing styles and genres of music.

ESP Standard Series guitars and basses are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and use of premium materials. 

Many models feature solid mahogany or alder bodies, maple necks with rosewood or ebony fingerboards, and high-end hardware and electronics.

The ESP Standard Series includes several iconic models, such as the ESP Eclipse, the ESP Horizon, the ESP M-II, and the ESP Surveyor. 

A wide range of musicians in different genres, from heavy metal and hard rock to jazz, fusion, and experimental music, uses these guitars and basses.

Overall, the ESP Standard Series is highly respected by guitarists and bassists for its combination of playability, tone, and versatility, and it continues to be a popular choice for both professional and amateur musicians alike.

ESP USA Series

Moreover, Electronic Sound Products has a US manufacturing facility that creates high-end guitars for the North American market. 

These ESP instruments are created by hand in Southern California and are thought to be on par with Japanese-made products in terms of specifications and build quality. 

Only a few high-end merchants carry ESP USA guitars, which can be purchased in a variety of tonewood, electronics, and hardware configurations.

The ESP USA series is a line of guitars and basses that are handcrafted in the United States by ESP Guitars. This line of instruments is designed to offer the same high level of quality and attention to detail as the ESP Custom Shop but at a more affordable price point.

The ESP USA series includes a range of models, including the Eclipse, Horizon, M-II, and Viper, among others. 

If you’re shopping in the US, you’ll find the following series:

– ESP Standard: Replaced by E-II in 2014 and catered more towards metal players with active pickups.

– LTD: Lower end series.

– Xtone: Lower end series.

These instruments are made using high-quality woods, such as mahogany, maple, and rosewood, and feature premium hardware and electronics, including Seymour Duncan or EMG pickups and Gotoh or Sperzel locking tuners.

In addition to their premium features, ESP USA guitars and basses are distinguished by their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. 

Each instrument is built by a team of skilled luthiers at ESP’s USA facility in North Hollywood, California, and undergoes a rigorous inspection process to ensure that it meets the company’s exacting standards.

Overall, the ESP USA series is a great choice for musicians who want a high-quality, American-made guitar or bass without the high price tag of a fully custom instrument. 

These guitars and basses offer exceptional playability, tone, and reliability, and are widely used by professional musicians in a variety of genres.

ESP E-II Series

Between ESP’s Original and LTD ranges, as well as their more affordable LTD line, the E-II Series fills the void. 

Due to its recognizable single-cut design, the Eclipse ESP guitar is seen as a modern rendition of the LP. 

The ESP Eclipse guitar is typically built of mahogany and has a long body with a rich, harmonically rich sound.

The ESP E-II Series is a line of guitars and basses that are made in Japan by ESP Guitars. The E-II Series is designed to offer the same high level of quality and craftsmanship as the ESP Standard Series but at a more affordable price point.

The E-II Series includes a wide range of models, including classic shapes like the Eclipse and the Horizon, as well as more modern designs like the Arrow and the Stream. 

These instruments are made using high-quality woods, such as mahogany, maple, and rosewood, and feature premium hardware and electronics, including Seymour Duncan or EMG pickups and Gotoh or Sperzel locking tuners.

Like all ESP guitars, E-II models are known for their exceptional playability, tone, and reliability. 

The E-II Series is built to the same exacting standards as the ESP Standard Series, and each instrument is crafted by a team of skilled luthiers in Japan using a combination of traditional techniques and modern technology.

Overall, the ESP E-II Series is a great choice for musicians who want a high-quality, Japanese-made guitar or bass with premium features and exceptional craftsmanship but at a more affordable price than a full custom shop instrument. 

These guitars and basses are used by professional musicians in a wide range of genres, from heavy metal and hard rock to jazz, fusion, and beyond.

ESP LTD Series

In 1996, ESP launched their LTD series, which are similar to their lower-end guitars but are more affordable and cater mainly for markets outside Japan. 

The 1000 series LTDs are made on an assembly line in Korea, while the 401 series and below are made in Indonesia. These are great for beginners who want to get into the ESP sound without spending a fortune.

The ESP LTD Series is a line of guitars and basses produced by ESP Guitars. The LTD Series is designed to offer high-quality instruments at more affordable price points than the company’s higher-end models.

The LTD Series includes a wide range of models, including classic shapes like the Eclipse and the Viper, as well as more modern designs like the M Series and the F Series. 

These instruments are made using high-quality woods, such as mahogany, maple, and rosewood, and feature a range of hardware and electronics options, including EMG or Seymour Duncan pickups, Floyd Rose tremolos, and Grover tuners.

The Grassroots and Edwards Lines

The Grassroots and Edwards are two separate product lines produced by ESP Guitars, both of which are aimed at offering high-quality instruments at more affordable price points.

The Grassroots line is a range of guitars and basses that are designed for beginning and intermediate players. These instruments are made in China and feature more affordable materials and components than ESP’s higher-end models. 

Despite their more affordable prices, Grassroots guitars and basses are known for their solid construction and good overall quality.

The Edwards line, on the other hand, is a line of guitars and basses that are made in Japan and are aimed at intermediate to advanced players. 

These instruments are designed to offer the same high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail as ESP’s higher-end models, but at a more affordable price point. 

Edwards guitars and basses feature high-quality woods, hardware, and electronics, including Seymour Duncan or EMG pickups, and are often used by professional musicians in a variety of genres.

Overall, both the Grassroots and Edwards lines offer musicians high-quality instruments with premium features, but at more affordable price points than ESP’s higher-end models. 

ESP Artist Series

If you want a guitar that’s just like your favorite artist’s, then the ESP Artist/Signature series is for you. 

These mass-produced versions of artist’s personal guitars and basses lie between Navigator/Custom Shop and the ESP Original series. 

So, these guitars are actually reproductions of popular musicians’ guitars and basses, and this allows anyone to rock out like his/her favorite star without breaking the bank!

ESP Basses

ESP is known for producing high-quality basses that are used by many professional musicians around the world. 

Some of the bass guitar models produced by ESP include the ESP Stream, the ESP Surveyor, the ESP B Series, the ESP AP Series, and the ESP D Series. ESP basses are often favored by musicians who play heavy metal, rock, and other genres that require a powerful, punchy sound. 

Additionally, ESP also produces bass guitar parts and hardware, such as pickups, bridges, and tuners, that can be used to customize and upgrade existing bass guitars.

If you’re looking for a bass that can do it all, from beginner to pro, then you should definitely check out ESP LTD basses. 

They have a range of models, from super affordable to top-of-the-line, so there’s something for everyone. 

The B-10 is a great option for those starting out, especially if you’re into heavier genres. And for the pros out there, the B-1004 is the highest quality 4-string bass, and it’s a total beast. 

Plus, they have a multi-scale version of this model, so you can get the perfect string tension and tone.

Why ESP LTD Basses are top sellers

ESP LTD basses are the perfect choice for bassists who want it all: versatility, great sound, and top-notch build quality. Here’s a quick rundown of why they’re so awesome:

– They have a model for every budget, from super cheap to super expensive.

– The B-10 is a great beginner’s bass, especially for heavier genres.

– The B-1004 is their top-of-the-line 4-string bass, and it’s a total pro.

– They have a multi-scale version of the B-1004, so you can get the perfect string tension and tone.

– They offer versatility, great sound, and top-notch build quality.

Hardware and other guitar parts

ESP was originally founded as a guitar part manufacturer, and this legacy continues. 

If you’re looking to customize your ESP guitar, then you’re in luck! ESP also produces various hardware parts themselves, like bass bridges, tremolos, pickups, sustainers, equalizers, and more. 

ESP (Electric Sound Products) is a company that produces a wide variety of guitar parts and hardware. 

Here are some of the hardware and guitar parts that ESP makes:

  1. Pickups – ESP produces a range of guitar pickups, including the EMG 81 and EMG 85, as well as their own ESP-designed pickups.
  2. Bridges – ESP produces a variety of guitar bridges, including Floyd Rose-style tremolos, Tune-O-Matic-style bridges, and more.
  3. Tuners – ESP produces a range of guitar tuners, including locking tuners and traditional-style tuners.
  4. Knobs and switches – ESP produces a range of knobs and switches for guitar electronics.
  5. Straps – ESP produces guitar straps with a variety of designs and materials.
  6. Cases and gig bags – ESP produces cases and gig bags for their guitars and basses.

ESP Guitars: A Heavy Metal Phenomenon

ESP (Electric Sound Products) Guitars have become a popular choice among heavy metal guitar players for several reasons.

Firstly, ESP has a reputation for producing high-quality guitars that are designed specifically for heavy metal music. 

They have a range of models that are built to handle the aggressive playing style and fast-paced riffs that are typical of heavy metal. 

These guitars often feature high-output pickups, extended-range capabilities, and lightweight designs, all of which contribute to their popularity among metal musicians.

Secondly, ESP has a long history of working with and endorsing some of the biggest names in heavy metal music. 

Their artist roster includes guitarists from bands such as Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Lamb of God, to name just a few. This association with successful metal musicians has helped to cement ESP’s reputation as a brand that is synonymous with heavy metal music.

Lastly, ESP’s commitment to producing custom guitars has also contributed to their popularity among metal musicians. 

Many metal guitarists have unique requirements when it comes to their instruments, and ESP’s ability to create customized guitars to meet those needs has earned them a loyal following among metal musicians.

Overall, ESP guitars have become a heavy metal phenomenon due to their quality, association with successful metal musicians, and commitment to producing custom instruments that meet the unique needs of heavy metal guitar players.

In the 1980s, ESP Guitars became a leading player in the world of thrash metal, thanks to their endorsements from some of the biggest names in the genre, like Metallica, Slayer, Anthrax, and Megadeth. 

This catapulted ESP to the top of the list when it came to heavy metal guitar manufacturers, and today, they boast hundreds of endorsements from musicians around the world.

What’s the Deal with ESP LTD Guitars? (ESP vs LTD explained)

The same guitar company makes ESP and LTD models. The ESP series is a premium line of guitars, and this is the main difference. 

The LTD series, on the other hand, is the more inexpensive alternative to ESP models. This is evident in the craftsmanship of the hardware, tonewood, and finish on each guitar. 

In order to compete with the other guitar manufacturers creating budget brands of their guitars, ESP launched the LTD sub-brand. (Think of Squier and how it’s basically making copies of Fender guitars).  

There was a then-new trend of inexpensive guitars, so ESP introduced the LTD series in 1996. 

To cut the overall cost and make LTD guitars more accessible to novices, poorer quality materials are used during manufacturing. LTD guitars make an effort to uphold excellent ESP standards, though.

Let’s cut to the chase – ESP LTD guitars are awesome! Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone. Plus, their prices are totally reasonable. 

So, if you’re looking for a quality guitar that won’t break the bank, ESP LTD is the way to go!

Who uses ESP guitars?

James Hetfield and Kirk Hammet of Metallica, Alexi Laiho of Children Of Bodom, Javier Reyes of Animals As Leaders, Stephen Carpenter of the Deftones, Page Hammett, and Alex Skolnick of Testament are all shredding their way to rock ‘n’ roll stardom with their ESP LTD guitars.

Ron Wood of The Rolling Stones is one of the longest-running endorsers of LTD guitars. He’s been rocking out with them for years and shows no signs of slowing down.

Also, these guitars have been used by some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Joshua Moore, Lou Cotton, and Andy Glass of the metalcore band We Came As Romans. 

Differences: how does ESP compare to other major brands?

ESP vs Yamaha

This is a battle of major Japanese guitar manufacturers. ESP and Yamaha are two well-known Japanese guitar brands that have been producing guitars for many years. 

While they may share some similarities, there are also some significant differences between the two brands.

  1. Focus on electric guitars: ESP is primarily known for producing high-quality electric guitars, while Yamaha produces a wide range of musical instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, as well as pianos, keyboards, and other instruments.
  2. Target audience: ESP is geared towards professional and serious amateur musicians who play heavy metal, hard rock, and other similar genres, while Yamaha targets a broader range of musicians across multiple genres and skill levels.
  3. Design and style: ESP guitars are known for their distinctive and often aggressive designs, while Yamaha guitars have a more traditional and conservative look. ESP guitars often feature sharp edges, pointy headstocks, and black finishes, while Yamaha guitars have a more classic look with rounder edges, natural wood finishes, and more traditional shapes.
  4. Price range: ESP guitars are generally more expensive than Yamaha guitars due to their high-quality materials and construction, as well as their focus on the high-end market. Yamaha guitars, on the other hand, offer a wider range of price points, with more affordable options for beginners and intermediate players.
  5. Customization options: ESP offers a wide range of customization options, including custom finishes, pickups, and hardware upgrades, while Yamaha guitars are typically sold as-is with fewer customization options.

Overall, both ESP and Yamaha produce high-quality guitars that are respected in the industry, but they differ in their focus, target audience, design, price range, and customization options.

ESP vs Ibanez

When it comes to electric guitars, ESP and Ibanez are two of the most popular brands. ESP guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and superior sound. 

They’re also known for their unique designs, which often feature intricate inlays and exotic finishes. 

Ibanez guitars, on the other hand, are known for their affordability and wide range of models. They’re also known for their fast necks and versatile pickups.

When it comes to electric guitars, ESP and Ibanez are two of the top contenders. ESP guitars are the go-to for those who want quality craftsmanship and superior sound. They’re also known for their unique designs, like intricate inlays and exotic finishes. 

Ibanez guitars, however, are more for the budget-conscious, with a wide range of models and fast necks. Plus, their pickups are incredibly versatile. So, whether you’re looking for quality or affordability, ESP and Ibanez have you covered.

ESP vs Takamine

When it comes to ESP and Takamine guitars, there are some major differences. ESP guitars are known for their high-end craftsmanship and quality, while Takamine guitars are known for their affordability and versatility.

When it comes to ESP, you’re getting top-notch quality. These guitars are crafted with precision and attention to detail, making them ideal for professional musicians. 

On the other hand, Takamine guitars are more affordable and offer a variety of features that make them great for beginners and experienced players alike. They may not have the same level of craftsmanship as ESP, but they still provide a great sound and are a great value.

In a nutshell, ESP guitars are for those who want the best of the best, while Takamine guitars are great for those who want a reliable instrument without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a guitar that will last a lifetime and sound great, ESP is the way to go. 

But if you’re just starting out and want something that won’t break the bank, Takamine is the way to go.

ESP vs Jackson

ESP and Jackson guitars are two of the most popular electric guitars on the market. While they both have their own unique features, there are some key differences between them. They’re both used for heavier musical genres.

When it comes to ESP and Jackson guitars, it’s all about the feel. ESP guitars have a slimmer neck, making them great for shredding and playing fast leads.

Jackson guitars, on the other hand, have a thicker neck, which gives them a heavier sound that’s great for hard rock and metal. 

So if you’re looking for a guitar that’s great for shredding, ESP is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a guitar that can handle the heavy stuff, Jackson is your best bet.

In terms of looks, ESP and Jackson guitars have their own distinct style. ESP guitars have a sleek, modern look that’s perfect for a more contemporary style of playing. 

Jackson guitars, on the other hand, have a classic, vintage look that’s perfect for a more traditional style. So if you’re looking for a guitar that looks as good as it sounds, ESP and Jackson have you covered.

When it comes to ESP and Jackson guitars, it’s all about the feel and the look. If you’re looking for a guitar that’s great for shredding and playing fast leads, then ESP is the way to go. 

But if you’re looking for a guitar that can handle the heavy stuff and looks classic and vintage, then Jackson is your best bet. So if you’re looking for an electric guitar that’s both stylish and powerful, ESP and Jackson have you covered.

FAQs

What’s a popular ESP guitar?

The LTD EC-1000 Series is one of their most popular models, and it’s easy to see why. It’s got the looks, the feel, and sound that professional musicians need, all at a price that’s still affordable for the average player. 

I’ve reviewed the ESP LTD EC-1000 and still think it’s one of the best out there for heavy metal because it has the Evertune bridge for added tuning stability, and it’s got the best EMG pickups. 

It’s got a vintage-style body and neck, gold hardware, and a Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece. 

And as I just mentioned, it’s got active EMG 81/60 pickups for a powerful punch. And with its set-thru construction and mahogany body and neck, it’s sure to last you a lifetime. 

So if you’re looking for a guitar that looks great, plays great, and won’t break the bank, the LTD EC-1000 is the one for you.

Who is the founder of ESP Guitars?

The story of ESP guitars began in 1975 when Hisatake Shibuya founded the company in Tokyo, Japan. 

Hisatake had a vision of creating high-quality guitars that could match the sound of the best American-made guitars. 

He wanted to make guitars that could stand up to the rigors of the stage and studio.

Hisatake’s passion for guitar craftsmanship and dedication to quality has made ESP guitars some of the most sought-after instruments in the world. 

His guitars are known for their unique designs, top-notch construction, and incredible tone. 

Hisatake’s legacy lives on in the guitars he created, and ESP guitars continue to be a favorite of players around the world.

Are ESP Guitars made in China?

Generally, no but there are some models that are manufactured in a Chinese factory. ESP guitars are made in both Tokyo and Los Angeles, but they also have a production line in China. 

So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly electric guitar or bass, you can count on ESP to deliver. ESP guitars are made with the same quality and craftsmanship as their Japanese and American counterparts, so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing sound or playability. Plus, you can save a few bucks along the way!

Basically, the cheapest ESP guitars are made in China, but they still sound pretty good.

What is special about ESP Guitars?

ESP guitars are special because they offer a huge variety of shapes, styles, and series’ to suit any player. 

Whether you’re a hard rocker or a traditionalist, there’s an ESP for you! Plus, they’re crafted with meticulous precision in Japan and the USA, so you know you’re getting a top-notch instrument. 

ESP guitars are also great for those on a budget, with their LTD range offering the same quality as their original models at a fraction of the price. 

And if you’re looking for something extra special, you can even customize your own ESP USA guitar with a range of top woods, finishes, hardware, and components.

Does Gibson own ESP?

No, Gibson does not own ESP. ESP is its own company, based in Tokyo and Los Angeles, and they make their own electric guitars and basses. 

They have nothing to do with Gibson, but they do have the same parent company as Schecter. 

Gibson does make Les Paul copies for the Japanese market under the brand name Orville, but they don’t own ESP. So, if you’re looking for an electric guitar or bass, ESP is your go-to, not Gibson.

What are the ESP Sub-Brands?

ESP has a few different sub-brands that all offer something unique. First up is the ESP Custom Shop, which is located in Japan and offers completely custom instruments, ESP Original Series models, and Signature Series guitars and basses. 

These are handcrafted by experienced luthiers and are some of the finest guitars in the world.

Then there’s the ESP USA Series, which are made in our Southern California shop and are designed for serious professional players. You can customize these with different top woods, finishes, and active or passive pickups. 

Finally, the ESP E-II Series are made at the ESP factory in Japan and are more affordable than the Custom Shop models, but still made to very high standards.

Does ESP manufacture amplifiers?

Yes, ESP does manufacture amplifiers! Since 2019, they’ve been the authorized distributor of ENGL Amps for the USA and Canada. 

So if you’re looking for a tube amp, cabinet, or effects/accessories, ESP has you covered. Plus, their amps are some of the most highly respected in the world. So you know you’re getting quality. 

What makes ESP Guitars so expensive?

First of all, not all ESP guitars are very expensive, it really depends on the model and series.

ESP guitars are renowned for their premium quality and craftsmanship. Every component and material used in their construction is carefully selected to ensure the highest level of performance and durability. 

This attention to detail and quality comes at a cost, making ESP guitars some of the most expensive instruments on the market. 

But don’t let the price tag scare you away! ESP guitars are worth every penny. Not only do they look and sound amazing, but they’re also built to last. So if you’re looking for an instrument that will stand the test of time, ESP guitars are definitely worth the investment.

Does ESP manufacture acoustic guitars?

Yes, ESP does make acoustic guitars! Their TL series guitars are hybrids, combining the classic look of an acoustic guitar with the convenience of an electric. 

These guitars are thin and lightweight, making them easy to play and carry around. They also come with high-quality components like a GraphTech nut and saddle and Fishman electronics for optimal performance. 

So if you’re looking for an acoustic guitar that looks great and plays even better, ESP has you covered.

Final thoughts

ESP Guitars is a Japanese guitar manufacturer that has been around since 1975. Founded by Hisatake Shibuya, ESP has become a leader in the electric guitar and bass market. With headquarters in both Tokyo and Los Angeles, they have distinct product lines for each market. 

ESP has been providing custom replacement parts for guitars since their inception, and they have also been crafting custom instruments for local New York artists since 1984. 

In 1985, George Lynch discovered ESP while on tour in Tokyo, and his famous ESP Kamikaze was made. 

Since then, ESP Guitars is known for its quality and craftsmanship, and they have become a go-to for many guitarists. 

Whether you’re looking for a custom instrument or just a replacement part, ESP has you covered. With their wide range of products, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs.

I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Neaera and a content marketer, dad, and love trying out new equipment with guitar at the heart of my passion, and together with my team, I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2020 to help loyal readers with recording and guitar tips.

Check me out on Youtube where I try out all of this gear:

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