ESP LTD EC-400

It ranks #5 (B tier) on our consolidated electric guitars board, drawn from 6 independent outlets.

Limited pickup selection compared to higher-end models.

The ESP LTD EC-400 is for players who put feel first. Reviewers praise its excellent feel, comfortable play, solid construction and reliable hardware, and it sits in B tier on our electric guitars board. Its one con is a limited pickup selection compared with higher-end models. If you want more tonal range, the PRS SE Custom 24 in A tier is credited with a versatile, balanced tone. If you want the top-rated guitar on the board, that is the Fender American Ultra II Tele in S tier.

The research points to a long life. Solid construction and reliable hardware are among its pros, and the warranty covers most parts. Strings are the only scheduled replacement. A yearly set-up keeps the action and intonation right.

Buy the ESP LTD EC-400. It sits in B tier on our board with solid construction and reliable hardware. The ESP LTD Phoenix-200DX sits in F tier, with reviews pointing to inconsistent build quality, hardware that fails within a few years and poor tone for the price. The two share a brand and nothing else that matters.

Yes. Its comfortable feel and solid construction suit a first guitar, and the warranty covers most parts. The limited pickup selection will not trouble a beginner. It is a good choice for someone starting out who already knows they want a heavier, humbucker-equipped sound rather than a Stratocaster-style guitar.

Wipe the strings and neck down after playing, keep it in a case or on a stand away from heat and direct sunlight, and avoid big humidity swings. Change strings when they sound dull, every one to three months for a regular player. Have it set up once a year or after changing string gauge.