ESP LTD Snakebyte SW
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
ESP
LTD Snakebyte SW
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
This Snakebyte is a serious instrument built for aggression. Hetfield's signature tone is spot-on thanks to those EMG pickups, and the mahogany body gives it a really thick, powerful sound. It's ideal for modern metal players who want a comfortable, reliable, and high-performance axe.
Product Description
- ESP LTD Snakebyte SW
- Electric Guitar
- James Hetfield Signature model
- Body: Mahogany (Khaya ivorensis/West Africa)
- Set-in neck: Mahogany (Khaya ivorensis/West Africa)
- Fretboard: Makassar ebony (Diospyros spp./Africa)
- Neck profile: Thin U
- Fretboard radius: 350 mm (13.78")
- Scale: 629 mm (24.75")
- Nut width: 42 mm (1.65")
- 22 Extra jumbo frets
- Pickup: 2 Active EMG JH humbuckers
- 2 x Volume controls
- 3-Way toggle switch
- Tonepros Locking TOM bridge and tailpiece
- LTD locking machine heads
- Black hardware
- Factory stringing: D'Addario XL110 (.010 - .046)
- Colour: Snow White
- Case included
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, powerful, and resonant low-end.
- • Thin 'U' neck profile is comfortable and fast for aggressive playing.
- • EMG JH pickups provide high-output, aggressive tone perfect for metal.
- • Locking hardware ensures tuning stability even with heavy use and drop tunings.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • Active pickups require a power source and limit tonal versatility somewhat.
- • Makassar ebony fretboard can be prone to cracking over time without proper care.
Product Video
Key Features
Body Material
Khaya ivorensis Mahogany
Neck Material
Khaya ivorensis Mahogany
Fingerboard
Makassar Ebony
Pickups
Active EMG JH Humbuckers
Scale Length
629 mm (24.75 in)
Frets
22 Extra Jumbo
Bridge
TonePros Locking TOM
Weight
Approximately 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Thin U profile is generally thinner and flatter than many of LTD's other neck shapes, offering a faster feel for shredding and aggressive playing styles.
Yes, the active pickups are standard size and can be swapped out, though you'll need to consider the power requirements for any replacements.
The Snow White finish is a satin finish, which shows fingerprints easily but is generally durable; regular cleaning and occasional waxing will help maintain its appearance.
