Best ESP Single Cut Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're looking at ESP single cuts? Smart move. They've built a serious reputation for shred-worthy instruments, but they're not just for pointy-headstock players. We're gonna break down what makes ESP's single cuts tick, covering everything from the classic Les Paul vibe to the modern metal machine they can be, and help you find the right one for your gig.
Last updated: October 9, 2026
⚡ The best single cut guitars in 2026 are ESP Eclipse SC SD CH RED RMB (top pick), ESP LTD EC-01 FT Black for tighter budgets, and ESP Eclipse CTM FM BKCH for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $522–$8,723, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
ESP Eclipse SC SD CH RED RMB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Classic Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
This Eclipse SC SD is a serious player's instrument. The mahogany body and ebony board combo delivers a focused, articulate tone with a surprising amount of growl thanks to those Duncan pickups. It’s a premium-priced guitar built for rock, hard rock, and even heavier styles where you want a refined, powerful sound.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides rich sustain and warmth.
- • Seymour Duncan Pegasus/Sentient combo delivers versatile high-output tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and speed.
- • Tonepros locking bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction results in a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • Red Rose Marble finish can be prone to fingerprints and minor blemishes.
- • The scale length might feel slightly long for players accustomed to shorter scales.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 607212
$6,487
ESP LTD EC-01 FT Black
by
ESP
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Jazz
Blues
Key Feature:
This guitar feels great in hand with a solid mahogany body and thin neck. The single Custom humbucker gives a warm, thick tone that works well for rock. It is a simple, reliable choice for players who want stability without extra electronics.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body and neck provide strong resonance
- • Thin U neck profile offers easy playability
- • Seymour Duncan Custom pickup delivers rich output
- • Neck-thru-body design ensures stable tuning
CONS
- • Limited to one volume control only
- • Single humbucker lacks tone variety
- • No active electronics for signal boost
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 584609
$1,117
#3
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
ESP Eclipse CTM FM BKCH
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Jazz
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a solid choice for players who want tight, loud tones without the noise of single coils. The mahogany body and ebony fingerboard give it a rich feel, while the EMG pickups keep the sound tight and consistent. It works well for anyone who needs a reliable workhorse, though the active system means you need a battery to use it fully.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body with flamed maple top for warmth and brightness
- • EMG active pickups deliver tight, loud, and consistent output
- • Thin U neck profile offers fast, comfortable playing feel
- • Made in Japan ensures high-quality build and reliable hardware
CONS
- • Active electronics require external power source for full functionality
- • No passive pickup option available for traditional tone switching
- • Weight is not listed, so balance may be unknown for some players
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 644264
$6,710
ESP LTD EC-400 QM VB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Metal
Hard Rock
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and neck-thru design. The EMG pickups give it a loud, aggressive sound that cuts through any mix. It suits players who want a fast neck and a strong tone without extra controls.
PROS
- • Mahogany body paired with quilted maple top for a warm, resonant tone
- • 3-piece neck-thru-body construction ensures stability and intonation retention
- • EMG 85 and 81 pickups deliver a powerful, high-output modern sound
- • Thin U neck profile offers a fast, comfortable play for many players
CONS
- • No weight specification provided makes handling unknown
- • Single tone control limits mid-range cutting ability
- • Lack of master volume knob can struggle in loud venues
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 634381
$1,062
#5
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD EC-1000 PW
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Metal
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and set-in neck. The ebony fingerboard slides easily under your fingers. The Fishman pickups sound bright and cut well through amps. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse for live gigs or recording.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body and set-in neck for strong resonance
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability
- • Fishman Fluence pickups provide clear direct output
- • Locking bridge and tuners ensure stable tuning
CONS
- • No weight spec listed makes carrying uncertain
- • Two volume/tone controls can feel cluttered
- • Pearl White finish may show wear easily
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 634372
$1,878
#6
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD EC-1000 GS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Hard Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a solid piece of mahogany that stays in tune well. The active pickups push a thick, loud sound perfect for rock stages. It suits players who want a fast neck and a tone that cuts through the mix.
PROS
- • Mahogany neck-through-body construction for strong sustain
- • Thin U neck profile fits most hand sizes easily
- • Active Seymour Duncan Mortal pickups deliver thick tone
- • Locking bridge and tuners keep tuning rock solid
CONS
- • Granite Sparkle finish shows every scratch clearly
- • Active electronics need a fresh battery to work
- • No weight spec listed feels heavy in this build
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 634351
$1,856
#7
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD EC-1000 CARS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Jazz
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid because it uses mahogany all the way from body to neck. The active pickups push the sound forward, making it perfect for live bands that need volume. The thin neck lets you play fast without your fingers getting in the way. It suits players who want a heavy, aggressive tone but should not expect a softer, passive option.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body and neck for strong sustain
- • Active coils give loud, direct sound
- • Thin neck profile fits small hands well
- • Locking bridge and tuners stay tight
CONS
- • No passive pickups for softer tone options
- • Heavy single-cut body may feel tiring
- • No bass option in this specific model
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 634349
$1,901
ESP LTD EC-400 QM STBSB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Hard Rock
Jazz
Blues
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and quilted maple top. The thin U neck makes it easy to play fast licks. The EMG pickups give you a tight, modern sound perfect for rock. It suits players who want reliability and punch without extra knobs to fiddle with.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body with quilted maple top for stability
- • Thin U neck profile offers fast playability
- • Dual EMG 85/81 humbuckers deliver tight low-end punch
- • Locking bridge and heads ensure tuning stability during performance
CONS
- • Single tone control limits mid-range adjustment
- • Set-in neck may feel bulky compared to bolt-on designs
- • Black sunburst finish hides potential wood imperfections
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 634375
$1,062
#9
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
ESP E-II Eclipse BLKS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Classic Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels heavy and solid thanks to its long scale and mahogany body. The active pickups give you a powerful sound that stays clear even at high volumes. It is a premium choice for players who want a tight feel and a modern black finish, though you will need to buy batteries separately.
PROS
- • Mahogany body with a maple top for warmth and clarity
- • Heavy 628 mm scale length for a tight, solid feel
- • Dual active EMG humbuckers for high-output noise control
- • Black satin finish offers a sleek, modern look
CONS
- • No specific weight listed to confirm comfort for all players
- • Active pickups require batteries which are not included
- • 305 mm radius may feel too flat for some styles
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 574421
$3,187
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
ESP Eclipse USA Aqua Marine SB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Metal
Jazz
Rock
Key Feature:
This Eclipse USA is a seriously gorgeous and well-built instrument. The combination of mahogany, ebony, and those Saturday Night Specials gives it a vintage vibe with plenty of bite – think classic rock and blues. It's a premium-priced axe perfect for players craving that warm, sustain-rich tone and a comfortable, traditional feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers rich, warm sustain and a resonant low-end.
- • Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special pickups provide a snarling, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • USA Custom Shop construction ensures meticulous attention to detail and top-tier build quality.
CONS
- • The substantial mahogany construction makes for a relatively heavy instrument.
- • The shorter 24.75” scale limits versatility for modern, extended-range playing.
- • The Aqua Marine Sunburst finish, while beautiful, may not appeal to all players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 614986
$6,487
#11
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
ESP Eclipse USA ST Black SB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Hard Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
This Eclipse USA ST is a serious instrument for players chasing a vintage vibe with modern precision. The thin 'U' neck and ebony board make it a joy to play, while those Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a thick, powerful tone perfect for rock and blues. It’s a premium-priced guitar built for discerning players who appreciate exceptional feel and tone.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides exceptional warmth and sustain.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers slick playability and note definition.
- • Seymour Duncan ALNICO II PROs deliver articulate, powerful tones.
- • USA Custom Shop build ensures meticulous craftsmanship and quality.
CONS
- • The mahogany construction contributes to a notably heavy feel.
- • The short scale length might not suit players preferring longer reach.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with coil-splitting options.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 614983
$6,487
#12
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
ESP Eclipse Custom Tiger Eye SB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Metal
Hard Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
This Eclipse Custom Tiger Eye SB is a serious instrument—a beautifully crafted, high-end guitar built for players who demand a specific tone and feel. The thin 'U' neck profile and shorter scale length provide a comfortable, vintage-inspired playing experience, while the EMG pickups deliver aggressive, modern bite. It's perfect for rock, hard rock, and metal players seeking a premium, resonant instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers rich sustain and warm low-end response.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and note definition.
- • EMG Het Set offers high-output, articulate tones ideal for rock and metal.
- • Japanese Custom Shop build ensures impeccable craftsmanship and quality control.
CONS
- • The mahogany construction makes it notably heavy, potentially fatiguing for some players.
- • The shorter scale length limits versatility for extended range or dropped tunings.
- • Tiger Eye Sunburst finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 614980
$8,724
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD EC-2025 50TH Anniv MG ltd
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Metal
Blues
Key Feature:
This EC-2025 is a seriously beautiful and well-built instrument. The mahogany body and ebony board combo gives it a really focused, powerful sound—it's ideal for players craving a vintage vibe with modern playability and those custom Duncan pickups really deliver. It's a premium-priced option, but the quality justifies it for the discerning player.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers rich sustain and warm low-end response.
- • Thin 'U' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and fast playing feel.
- • Seymour Duncan pickups provide articulate highs and powerful rock tones.
- • Ebony fretboard contributes to clarity and note definition across the neck.
CONS
- • The mahogany construction will likely result in a substantial weight, potentially tiring for some players.
- • The 24.75” scale limits versatility for players needing extended range or tighter bass response.
- • The limited pickup options restrict tonal exploration beyond classic rock and blues.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 608682
$1,733
#14
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
ESP Eclipse FM SD STBLKCSB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Jazz
Classic Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Eclipse FM SD is a serious instrument – a beautifully crafted, USA-made guitar with a vintage vibe. The Alnico II PRO Gold pickups provide a gorgeous, warm tone that’s perfect for blues, classic rock, and even some jazz. It’s a premium-priced option ideal for discerning players who appreciate quality and a comfortable, fast neck.
PROS
- • Mahogany body and flamed maple top deliver a rich, resonant, and visually striking tone.
- • Seymour Duncan Alnico II PRO Gold humbuckers offer a warm, articulate vintage tone with plenty of bite.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
- • TonePros locking bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain, a significant upgrade.
CONS
- • The thin 'U' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker, more substantial feel.
- • The 24.75” scale length, while comfortable, limits versatility for extreme tunings or extended range.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 602890
$6,151
ESP LTD EC-200DX BLB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Hard Rock
Metal
Blues
Key Feature:
The EC-200DX BLB is a seriously impressive guitar for the money. It's got a comfortable, fast neck and a surprisingly punchy sound thanks to those LTD pickups – a great all-rounder for rock, blues, and even some modern styles. This is a fantastic option for gigging musicians or students looking for a quality instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- • Flamed maple top adds visual appeal and subtle resonance.
- • LH-150 pickups deliver a surprisingly versatile, crunchy tone.
- • Die-cast tuners provide reliable tuning stability for live performance.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a bit plain compared to mahogany alternatives.
- • Coil-split functionality is somewhat limited in tonal scope.
- • The thin 'U' neck profile may not suit players preferring thicker feels.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 593614
$522
Every single cut guitars that matches
44 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | ESP LTD TED-EC BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,124 |
| 17 | ESP E-II RZK-II Fluence | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $3,243 |
| 18 | ESP E-II Eclipse See Thru BKCSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,578 |
| 19 | ESP E-II Eclipse Full Thickn ET BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,970 |
| 20 | ESP E-II Eclipse FR Charcoal Burst | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,578 |
| 21 | ESP E-II Eclipse FM BLK NAT B | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,187 |
| 22 | ESP LTD WA Warbird Will Adler BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,348 |
| 23 | ESP LTD EC-1000 QM Black Cherry FL | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,901 |
| 24 | ESP LTD EC-10 BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Basswood body | $279 |
| 25 | ESP E-II Eclipse FT FM TSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,578 |
| 26 | ESP LTD EC-01 FT CBS | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,373 |
| 27 | ESP LTD EC-256 QM Black Cherry SB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $715 |
| 28 | ESP E-II Eclipse BB BLKS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,187 |
| 29 | ESP E-II Eclipse FT FM SD VHB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body | $3,187 |
| 30 | ESP E-II Eclipse DB GRANSP | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body | $3,355 |
| 31 | ESP LTD AS 1FRFM BLKAQSB | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Neck profile U-shape neck | $1,733 |
| 32 | ESP LTD GH-200 BLK Gary Holt | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Body Basswood body | $815 |
| 33 | ESP LTD EC-1000 QM STPSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body | $1,598 |
| 34 | ESP E-II Eclipse Snow White | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body | $3,131 |
| 35 | ESP E-II Eclipse DB VB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") · Body Mahogany body | $3,131 |
| 36 | ESP E-II Eclipse QM RDB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") | $3,355 |
| 37 | ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune BB BLKS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") | $1,677 |
| 38 | ESP LTD Iron Cross SW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") | $1,676 |
| 39 | ESP LTD GH 600 BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") | $2,012 |
| 40 | ESP Iron Cross SW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") | $7,829 |
| 41 | ESP LTD EC-256 BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") | $603 |
| 42 | ESP E-II Eclipse BM Blue Nat Fade | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") | $3,231 |
| 43 | ESP LTD EC-1000VB/Duncan | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 628 mm (24.72") | $1,318 |
| 44 | ESP LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black | Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body | $1,319 |
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 481 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,453
from $245 to $6,710
Scale
median 628 mm (24.72")
from 625 mm (24.61") to 648 mm (25.51") · 428 models
Frets
median 22
from 22 to 22 · 300 models
Nut width
median 43 mm (1.69")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 43.1 mm (1.7") · 367 models
Body
mahogany, poplar, meranti
most common · 392 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, ebony, laurel
most common · 320 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 254 mm (10") to 350 mm (13.78") · 209 models
Neck profile
C, U
most common · 67 models
Weight
median 6.5 kg
from 3.88 kg to 10 kg · 28 models
How to Choose the Best Single Cut Guitars
1
Neck Profile
ESP's neck profiles are a big deal. From the thin Wizard III to the more substantial Historic Fat neck, it drastically affects playability and comfort. A thin neck is a shredder's dream, but can feel flimsy if you're into a heavier feel. Consider what feels best for you.
2
Pickup Voicing
ESP's historically leaned heavily on DiMarzio pickups, and for good reason - they deliver serious punch and sustain. But newer models are exploring other options, and the voicing can range from tight and articulate for modern metal to a more vintage-voiced, bluesy growl. Listen closely - that 'honk' in the midrange can make or break a rhythm tone.
3
Hardware & Tuning Stability
ESP's hardware, especially on their higher-end models, is generally solid. Locking tuners are a must if you're dropping tunings or playing live frequently - they'll save you headaches and keep your guitar in tune under the stress of a gig. Cheaper models might skimp here.
4
Construction & Sustain
ESP's mahogany bodies, often paired with maple tops, provide a warm, resonant foundation. The construction quality is generally excellent, contributing to impressive sustain, but budget models sometimes use less-resonant woods. That low-end thump is what lets you cut through a dense mix.
5
Aesthetics & Finish
Let's be honest, looks matter. ESP's finishes, from classic satin to high-gloss, are generally well-executed, but the top carve on budget models can sometimes be a little uneven. It's a purely cosmetic issue, but it can impact resale value.
Buying Guide
ESP single cuts are a solid investment, but be realistic. The LTD line offers incredible value for the price, but you'll notice a difference in wood quality and hardware compared to the flagship ESP models. If you're a gigging musician, spend a little more for the locking tuners and better fretwork - it's worth it in the long run. Don't chase the flashiest finish if it means compromising on playability.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 44 of 481 single cut guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
LTD guitars offer fantastic value and are built to a high standard, but you'll generally find higher-grade woods and components on the flagship ESP models. Think of it as a step down in materials, not a drop in quality - LTD is still excellent.
While many ESP single cuts draw inspiration from the Les Paul, they often feature thinner, faster necks, hotter pickups, and more modern hardware. Where a Les Paul might aim for a warm, vintage vibe, an ESP is usually geared towards more aggressive playing styles.
Most ESP guitars play well right out of the box, but a professional setup is always a good idea. Lowering the action and optimizing the intonation can really unlock the guitar's potential, especially on thinner neck profiles.
Absolutely! While known for rock and metal, with the right amp settings and pickup choice, an ESP single cut can be surprisingly versatile. Look for models with coil-splitting capabilities to dial back the aggression.
Fanned frets, or multi-scale, are designed to optimize string tension for extended range guitars. They're less common on standard single cuts, but if you're playing 7-string or beyond, it's a feature worth exploring - it can improve clarity and intonation across the fretboard.
