Best ESP ST Style Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're in the market for an ESP ST-style guitar? Smart move. They’ve carved out a serious niche, especially for players who want that classic Strat vibe but with a bit more aggressive edge and rock-solid build. Forget the dime-a-dozen copies; ESP’s take on the ST platform consistently delivers a pro-level playing experience, but it’s got nuances you need to know about.
Last updated: August 19, 2026
⚡ The best st style guitars in 2026 are ESP Edwards M-II CTM NAT (top pick), ESP Edwards CY SWS for tighter budgets, and ESP Edwards CY BLKS for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $577–$4,162, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
ESP Edwards M-II CTM NAT
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Country
Pop
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid under your hand thanks to the ash body and thick maple neck. The strings go all the way through the wood, which usually gives a deeper thump. It comes with two humbuckers for a heavy sound, but only one knob to turn the volume. If you want a straightforward, hard-hitting instrument without extra switches, this fits you well.
PROS
- • Ash body with flamed maple looks striking on stage.
- • Through-body string passage strengthens the bottom end.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a fast, smooth playing feel.
- • Custom Lab humbuckers deliver thick, punchy output.
CONS
- • Fixed hardtail bridge lacks a tremolo system.
- • Single master tone control limits EQ flexibility.
- • No weight specification makes carrying uncertainty.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 649087
$2,254
#2
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
ESP Edwards CY SWS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Funk
Indie
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a well-built workhorse ready for the stage. The alder body and maple neck give it a solid feel, while the Floyd Rose bridge lets you dive-bomb whenever you want. It suits players who need a reliable tone but want to keep things simple with just one volume knob.
PROS
- • Solid alder body offers balanced resonance for all playing styles.
CONS
- • Single volume control limits tonal shaping options compared to standard 5-band setups.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 649075
$2,717
#3
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
ESP Edwards CY BLKS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Funk
Blues
Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to its thick maple neck and locking tuners. It handles fast bends and dive bombs easily with the Floyd Rose bridge. The black finish looks cool on stage. It fits players who want a reliable workhorse for heavy music without worrying about setup stability.
PROS
- • Sturdy three-piece maple neck holds its shape well for heavy playing.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo offers extreme dive-bombing capability for metal styles.
- • Seymour Duncan Rails provide a tight, responsive high-output humbucker tone.
- • Black satin finish looks sleek and hides minor scratches easily.
CONS
- • No weight specification listed makes heavy-set players unsure of comfort.
- • Master tone control lacks individual pickup tone adjustments.
- • Description omits specific tonal character of the Jazz Rails pickup.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 649071
$2,717
#4
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
ESP Edwards M-II-7 MBKS
by
ESP
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
7-string
Body
Okoume body
Blues
Country
Pop
Key Feature:
This guitar feels built for players who want a rock-solid platform. The strings go through the body, which gives a strong, clear tone that holds up well. The extra-jumbo frets are easy to play, even with a big hand. It is a good choice for those who prefer a simple, hardtail feel over complex hardware.
PROS
- • Heavy-duty fixed hardtail bridge locks string tension perfectly
- • Extra-jumbo nickel-silver frets play smoothly across the neck
- • 3-piece bolt-on maple neck stays stable under heavy use
- • Strings run through the body for solid sustain and clarity
CONS
- • Okoume body material lacks the density of maple or mahogany
- • No weight spec listed makes balance feel uncertain
- • Single volume and tone controls limit tone shaping options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 649093
$2,428
#5
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
ESP Edwards M-II-7 IBM
by
ESP
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
7-string
Body
Okoume body
Blues
Indie
Funk
Key Feature:
This guitar has a solid maple neck and big humbuckers that make thick, warm tones. The strings-through-body bridge is strong but makes the instrument heavier than a tremolo model. It fits players who want a hardtail feel and big sound without a tremolo system.
PROS
- • Solid 3-piece bolt-on maple neck construction
- • Premium humbuckers for thick, warm tones
- • Strings-through-body hardtail bridge design
- • Extra-jumbo frets for easy playing
CONS
- • Heavy Okoume body may feel bulky
- • No tremolo system for vibrato
- • Single tone control limits tone shaping
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 649091
$2,428
#6
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD MV-1000 Maverick PW
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
This guitar feels incredibly light thanks to the alder body and roasted maple neck. The Seymour Duncan pickups and extra thin neck make it perfect for shredding. It suits players who want fast action and big whammy bar moves.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck plays very fast with low action
- • Seymour Duncan Custom and Hotrail pickups deliver tight, warm tones
- • Alder body keeps weight down while adding punch to the sound
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for extreme dive-bombs and whammy bar use
CONS
- • No tremolo locknut means locking the nut is difficult
- • Single master volume knob limits tone shaping options
- • Pearl White finish shows fingerprints and scratches easily
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 634481
$1,965
ESP LTD MH-200HT QM BS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Rock
Blues
Funk
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a reliable workhorse for players who want a solid tone without the extra weight. The quilted maple top sounds bright, while the strings go all the way through the body for a tight low end. It suits anyone needing a fast, stable neck with smooth XJ frets for quick bending.
PROS
- • Solid bolt-on neck construction ensures stability
- • Quilted maple top offers bright resonance
- • Strings pass through the body for tight low end
- • 24 XJ frets provide a smooth playing surface
CONS
- • Weight is not specified in the description
- • Only two pickup options limit tone choices
- • No active electronics or onboard preamp included
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 634438
$866
ESP LTD M-200DX NT PB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Indie
Pop
Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels great to play thanks to its roasted maple neck and smooth XJ frets. The poplar body sounds warm, and the coil split switch lets you change the tone quickly. It is a solid choice for players who want a reliable, affordable instrument without heavy electronics.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers stable tuning and fast playability.
- • 24 XJ frets provide a smooth, even surface for bending.
- • Poplar burl body gives a warm, resonant natural tone.
- • Coil split switches let you switch between thick and thin sounds.
CONS
- • Poplar wood is less dense than maple, potentially affecting sustain.
- • No active electronics mean limited output for loud stages.
- • Lack of weight specification makes the guitar feel unknown.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 593616
$577
#9
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD SN-1000HT QM DBSB
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
628 mm (24.72")
Fingerboard radius
300 mm (11.81")
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Indie
Blues
Funk
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to the roasted maple neck and strings-through-body bridge. The uncovered humbuckers give a direct, punchy sound perfect for rock and metal. It looks cool with the quilted top, but the missing weight info is a worry. Great for players who want raw tone without extra knobs.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stability and consistent tuning.
- • Quilted maple top adds visual appeal and resonance.
- • Uncovered humbuckers provide a raw, aggressive tone.
- • Strings-through-body bridge improves sustain and solid feel.
CONS
- • Lacks volume knob for tone control versatility.
- • No pickup covers on exposed humbuckers.
- • Weight not specified, may feel heavy in hand.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 634593
$2,023
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II SN-III Flicker GunMet BK
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to its roasted maple neck and thin U profile. The Seymour Duncan pickups give you a clear, punchy tone that cuts well in a band. It is a reliable choice for players who need a stable tremolo system.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers stable playability for long sessions.
- • Thin U profile provides comfortable access for complex chords.
- • Seymour Duncan mix delivers balanced warmth and punch.
- • Flicker-III tremolo ensures precise pitch stability.
CONS
- • Black finish may show fingerprints easily.
- • High-gloss surface lacks scratch resistance.
- • No hardware weight listed in specs.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 634735
$3,932
#11
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II SN-III Flicker CGS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Rock
Funk
Key Feature:
This guitar feels great because the roasted neck stays stable. The jumbo frets glide easily, and the flashy gold finish looks stunning. It fits players who want smooth action and a bright, snappy tone from the single coils.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable tuning and consistent playability.
- • Extra jumbo stainless steel frets offer smooth playing across the fretboard.
- • Champagne Gold Sparkle finish provides a unique and eye-catching look.
- • Flicker-III tremolo system delivers smooth vibrato without binding.
CONS
- • No weight spec is provided to estimate comfort for large players.
- • Factory strings are only Super Light gauge, limiting heavy tone options.
- • Black hardware contrasts sharply with the champagne gold sparkle finish.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 634734
$3,932
#12
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II Maverick GunMetallic BK
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Pop
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid and plays fast thanks to its maple neck and special stainless steel frets. The Floyd Rose system keeps your pitch locked tight during heavy bends. It is a serious tool for players who want a stable platform, though the lack of extra knobs might limit your tone choices.
PROS
- • Stainless steel frets offer a long-lasting, smooth playing surface
- • Thin U neck profile allows for fast, easy finger movement
- • Floyd Rose tremolo locks strings for perfect tuning stability
- • Seymour Duncan humbuckers deliver a warm yet punchy midrange tone
CONS
- • Heavy alder body may feel cumbersome for smaller players
- • Single volume and tone controls limit basic tone shaping options
- • No information given about actual guitar weight in the text
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 634562
$4,163
#13
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II Maverick FR II Andromeda
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Indie
Pop
Blues
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a workhorse built for players who want stability. The locking tuners and heavy frets mean it stays in tune and feels great under your fingers. It suits anyone needing a reliable double-cutout guitar for jam sessions or recording.
PROS
- • Heavy-duty 27 super jumbo stainless steel frets for long life
- • Gotoh locking machine heads keep tuning stable during play
- • Seymour Duncan TB-14 BLK bridge pickup delivers tight low-end punch
- • Alder body paired with maple set-in neck for solid resonance
CONS
- • No weight specification listed in the provided description
- • Single volume and tone control lacks a dedicated master volume
- • Andromeda matte finish hides potential surface imperfections from view
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 634553
$4,163
#14
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II Horizon FR GunMetallic BK
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Funk
Pop
Country
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a workhorse built to handle heavy metal gigs. The mahogany body and maple neck give it a solid feel, while the stainless steel frets will stay bright for a long time. With those EMG pickups and Floyd Rose bridge, it screams for fast picking and dive-bombs. It suits players who want a reliable, high-end machine that never lets them down on stage.
PROS
- • Mahogany body with maple set-in neck for solid stability
- • Stainless steel frets stay bright for years without wearing down
- • EMG 81 and 89R BBC humbuckers deliver tight, modern tone
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for heavy dive-bombing effects
CONS
- • Heavy black hardware adds significant weight to the instrument
- • No weight specification means it may feel too heavy for some players
- • Single volume and tone controls limit custom EQ options compared to modern standards
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 634545
$4,163
#15
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II Horizon FR II Andromeda
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Funk
Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a solid workhorse built for heavy playing. The mahogany body and maple neck-through design keep it stable while the ebony fretboard stays smooth under your fingers. With those high-output EMG pickups, it screams when you turn the volume up. It suits anyone who needs a reliable, loud instrument that locks into tune perfectly.
PROS
- • Stunning mahogany body with maple neck-through construction for stability
- • 24 XJ super jumbo frets for effortless playability
- • High-output EMG 81 and 89R BBC humbuckers for aggressive tone
- • Floyd Rose original tremolo system for pitch stability
CONS
- • No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
- • Single volume control limits volume shaping options
- • Only one tone control restricts EQ flexibility
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 634464
$4,163
Every st style guitars that matches
52 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 SN-1 HT BB REV | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 300 mm (11.81") · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,919 |
| 17 | ESP LTD Jeff Hanneman JH-600CTM BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,427 |
| 18 | ESP E-II RZK-I Fluence | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $4,221 |
| 19 | ESP E-II M-II HT Mercury Blue Bst | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,510 |
| 20 | ESP LTD KH WZ | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,939 |
| 21 | ESP E-II M-II Neck Thru Snow White | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,469 |
| 22 | ESP E-II M-I Thru NT DCARS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,891 |
| 23 | ESP E-II Horizon 3 FM FR STBLKSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,469 |
| 24 | ESP E-II Horizon NT-II EMG STBCSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,469 |
| 25 | ESP E-II Horizon NT II TE AM Fade | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,469 |
| 26 | ESP LTD MH1000 NT FM Charcoal | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,965 |
| 27 | ESP LTD GL Desert Eagle | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,173 |
| 28 | ESP Edwards E-MII-CTM Smokey Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,197 |
| 29 | ESP Edwards Horizon-8 FX BLKS | Nut width 55 mm (2.17") · Scale 666 mm (26.22") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") | $2,601 |
| 30 | ESP Edwards Horizon-I BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body | $2,197 |
| 31 | ESP LTD KH-202 BLK Kirk Ham Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Basswood body · Weight 4 kg | $873 |
| 32 | ESP LTD MT-130 Snow White | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Basswood body | $334 |
| 33 | ESP LTD MT-130 Red | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Basswood body | $334 |
| 34 | ESP LTD MT-130 Neon Green | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Basswood body | $334 |
| 35 | ESP LTD MT-130 BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Basswood body | $334 |
| 36 | ESP E-II Horizon QM FR RDB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body | $3,353 |
| 37 | ESP LTD SN-1000 HT Silver Blast | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,850 |
| 38 | ESP LTD MH-1000NT BB BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,892 |
| 39 | ESP LTD MH-1000 Black Ocean | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,850 |
| 40 | ESP LTD M-200DX NT BLB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $576 |
| 41 | ESP LTD MH-1000ET CARS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,271 |
| 42 | ESP LTD ALR-II QM STP Andy Laroque | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,544 |
| 43 | ESP LTD MT-I Mick Thomson OBSM | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,965 |
| 44 | ESP E-II Horizon FR-II EMG TESB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,816 |
| 45 | ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body | $1,955 |
| 46 | ESP LTD KH 602 PSP | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body | $1,734 |
| 47 | ESP LTD KH 602 BLK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body | $1,632 |
| 48 | ESP LTD MH-10 Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Basswood body | $300 |
| 49 | ESP LTD KH-202 BLK Kirk Hammett | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Basswood body | $751 |
| 50 | ESP E-II Horizon FR-II EMG STBCSB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Mahogany body | $3,816 |
| 51 | ESP LTD M-1000HT BP Black Fade | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body | $1,734 |
| 52 | ESP KH-2 Neck Thru CTM | Body Alder body | $6,014 |
ST Style Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 1,093 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,038
from $184 to $6,360
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 41.9 mm (1.65") to 43 mm (1.69") · 846 models
Scale
median 648 mm (25.51")
from 635 mm (25") to 648 mm (25.51") · 977 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 229 mm (9.02") to 400 mm (15.75") · 505 models
Body
alder, poplar, basswood
most common · 960 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, maple, ebony
most common · 692 models
Frets
median 22
from 21 to 24 · 580 models
Neck profile
C, D, U
most common · 173 models
Weight
median 3.44 kg
from 2 kg to 9 kg · 55 models
Strings
median 7-string
from 4-string to 8-string · 15 models
How to Choose the Best ST Style Guitars
1
Heritage & Design Philosophy
ESP’s ST-styles aren’t just copies. They draw inspiration from classic Strats but lean into a more modern, rock-focused aesthetic. Think sharper contours, often a thinner neck profile, and a focus on sustain – something often lacking in cheaper alternatives.
2
Neck Construction & Playability
ESP’s necks are generally fantastic. The Wizard III profile is a real winner for many – thin, fast, and comfortable for shredding, though it might feel a little too slim for some blues players. Action setup is usually spot-on out of the box, but a pro setup always elevates the experience.
3
Pickups & Tone Voicing
This is where ESP really differentiates itself. They often use their own LH pickups or DiMarzio pickups which deliver a more aggressive, high-output sound than many stock Strat pickups. Expect a tighter low-end thump, more defined articulation, and a slightly hotter, more saturated overdrive – great for rock and metal, but can be tamed with the tone knob.
4
Hardware & Build Quality
ESP’s hardware is consistently solid. Locking tuners are standard on many models, improving tuning stability, which is critical for live gigs. The bridges are usually designed for better sustain and tremolo performance than you’ll find on budget instruments, though some models might have a slightly less refined tremolo feel.
5
Sustain & Resonance
ESP guitars, particularly those with Mahogany bodies, tend to have exceptional sustain. It’s not just about long notes; it’s about how the guitar *responds* – a noticeable difference when bending strings or using vibrato. This is a crucial factor for expressive playing and cutting through a loud mix.
Buying Guide
Don’t chase the flashiest finish – focus on the neck profile and pickup voicing. Higher-end ESPs use roasted maple necks, which offer increased stability and a smoother feel, but it's a luxury. If you're a gigging musician, prioritize tuning stability and a comfortable neck; those small details make a HUGE difference when you're sweating it out on stage. Beware of super-budget ESP models; those often cut corners on hardware and wood selection.
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 52 of 1,093 st style 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
It depends. If you want that classic Fender vibe *exactly*, a Fender is the way to go. But if you're after a more modern, aggressive playing experience with a tighter feel and better hardware, ESP offers incredible value.
LTD is ESP's more affordable line. They often use different woods and pickups to hit a lower price point, but still maintain a good level of quality. Standard Series are generally higher-end with more premium features.
They *can* be, but you might need to swap the pickups. The stock pickups are often too hot for traditional blues tones. A set of vintage-style single coils would mellow them out considerably.
Absolutely. The comfortable neck profiles and solid hardware make them a joy to play. Just be aware they might be a bit more aggressive sounding than a traditional Strat, which is fine for learning rock and metal.
Generally, yes. The construction methods and wood choices often contribute to excellent sustain, especially models with Mahogany bodies. It’s a noticeable upgrade compared to many other ST-style guitars.
