Jackson vs ESP/LTD

[Ball&Chain]

Im looking for thoughts and ideas on both Jackson and the ESP LTD brands.

Im thinking of making a move for one of them, probably in the $500 range, so we are really talking LTD vs DK2 or X- Series.

One thing ive noticed in the specs is that the LTD guitars are usually listed as Extra Jumbo frets, while the Jacksons are Jumbo. Im not sure if ive noticed a physical difference though, but ive played more Jacksons recently than LTD's. My access to LTD's has been limited, but i have like what ive played so far.

Any though on the necks and frets?

A nearby music store has several DK2's, one of wich is almost perfect. Its a trans black and string through body, which i prefer to floyds, but havent ruled out a floyd guitar either. The best playing Jackson was a butt ugly george lynchy blue and black tiger stripped Dk2 with a maple neck and black binding and a floyd. If it wasnt so ugly, who knows. I generally prefer trans finishes with flamed tops like the string through DK2, but a solid finish is also an option.



I think this was the string through model.

http://www.jacksonguitars.com/products/products.php?group=Pro-Series&page=1&product=2911006803

 

[Andrew Lamprecht]

Re: Jackson vs ESP/LTD

Most Jacksons I have played sound a lot better than ESP guitars. But those are the guitars that are around $600 or $700 and up. I think the cheaper ESPs sound better than the cheaper Jacksons but that's just my opinion.

 

[apj]

Re: Jackson vs ESP/LTD

For me ESP/LTD beat jacksons hands down, better playbility, I personally like the styling better, and I like the necks a lot better. Play a few of each and see which you prefer, really they are both good brands and it comes down to personal preference

 

[BlueSky]

Re: Jackson vs ESP/LTD

From someone who loves ESP, the LTD line is a bunch Korean made junkers. I used to own a 7 string LTD, and it was the worst guitar I've owned. Recently the LTD are ridiculously over priced imo. I used to own a Horizon II, and it was a great guitar. Currently my main guitar is a Jackson SLS3, which pretty close the the Horizon, but the neck is a bit thinner, which I like. If you don't want to spend a grand to get a Standard ESP then I'd suggest saving a little to at least make the jump to an Edwards.

Check out some of the guitars on this site, and check ebay every so often for Edwards models:
http://www.katanaguitars.com/

 

[D-EJ915]

Re: Jackson vs ESP/LTD

Considering the recent 1-200 dollar price hike on Jackson imports really they are comparable now otherwise I would say Jacksons probably beat them out for quality/price.