LTD: H301

ESP has made it clear that their LTD models are the company's more affordable instruments without a stark contrast in QC. Well, my encounter today with the LTD H301 was a simple witnessing of the company's promise. The H301 was a class act from one end of the instrument to the other. Perhaps the only feature which doesn't quite manifest class appeal are the active pickups (EMG 81/85) but this would tread the issue of personal appeal- some of us prefer these pickups because they help us achieve our objectives. To me, pickups which over-power the instrument's dynamics & literally breathe a life of their own, should not belong here. However, these pickups did wonders to the instrument's commanding presence, even I enjoyed the tonal offerings (not quite the cleans, though) after plugging the H301 into a 30W Marshall- fantastic!

The H301's playability is tops in my books considering I have limited tolerance for guitars with a lacquered neck finish. Top top it all off, the dazzling looks make it worth every cent of the asking price. If you are looking for an instrument in the $700 - $1K price bracket, the H301 should be on your list. Highly recommended (not for those looking for an immaculate clean tone).

PS: Thanks Janet & everyone at Davis GMC for tolerating 20min of my 'test-drive' today.