2015: LTD

I've been through both the ESP & LTD experience. ESP is perhaps one of the very few manufacturers out there that closely associates their primary brand name with their subsidiaries. This is the reason why, in ads & promos, they will cite their products as an 'ESP: LTD ____ (fill in the relevant model alpha-numeric)'. I will stand firm in saying that there is a standard difference between an ESP & an LTD. Even the Deluxe LTDs, the most elite in the range, manifest marked differences (albeit a little discrete) in various aspects but the manufacturer (like PRS) strives to bridge the class gap as much as possible. This is a respectable business philosophy that is quickly catching on with other brand names as well (Squier's VM & CV models propelled the Squier name ahead in this aspect, with respect to the Fender offerings).

Moving on, if there's a worthy LTD to pay good money for this year, the Anniversary models should be considered. They feature EMG 57/66 pickups, by the way, in my books, the most worthy EMGs to check out if you are a cult passive pickup fan who wish to embrace an active adventure. 

The signature models (seen here L-R: Gary Holt/ Javier Reyes/ Bunny Brunel) are only to be considered if you think the ESP version is something that will definitely not come your way. They are fine instruments, in fact, sitting above the Deluxe models in terms of details & attributes but that endorsement front adds more to cost than you'd love to bear. Animals as Leaders' J Reyes settled with a Mystique 8-string with an absolutely fine construction & electronics but that headstock would be the primary repulsion. The more economical variations on offer don't really match-up to the higher end counterparts with much loss in essence. These are clearly standard production models with nothing special to offer except for the endorser association.

The LTD range also sees more baritone models added & baritone here refers to a 27" scale length, complementary to largely 7 & 8-string models. 

Pic: espguitars