ESP LTD TL-12 BK

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ESP LTD TL-12 BK

ESP

LTD TL-12 BK

4.7 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 439365
Brand: ESP
Model: LTD TL-12 BK
Price: $801.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The LTD TL-12 BK is a solid 12-string acoustic, offering a surprisingly versatile sound thanks to the maple/mahogany combo and Fishman electronics. It's a great option for singer-songwriters or players who want a full, shimmering sound for folk, country, or even softer rock styles – just be prepared for that 12-string string tension!

Product Description

  • ESP LTD TL-12 BK
  • Steel-string Guitar
  • 12-string
  • Cutaway
  • Back & sides: Mahogany
  • Top: Maple
  • Neck: Mahogany
  • Fretboard: Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia)
  • 22 Frets
  • Nut: Graph Tech Nubone XB
  • Nut width: 48 mm (12")
  • Scale: 635 mm (25")
  • Binding: Cream
  • Preamp: Fishman TL-3
  • Bridge: Graph Tech Nubone XB
  • Machine heads: Grover
  • Colour: Black
PROS
  • • Maple top provides a bright, articulate voice with excellent clarity.
  • • Mahogany back and sides offer warmth and sustain, balancing the maple's brightness.
  • • Fishman TL-3 preamp delivers a natural amplified tone with useful EQ controls.
  • • Grover machine heads ensure stable tuning and smooth, precise adjustments.
CONS
  • • 12-string guitars inherently have higher string tension, requiring stronger fingers.
  • • Mahogany can sometimes 'box out' in higher registers – careful EQ is needed.
  • • Rosewood fretboards, while nice, may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.

Product Video

Key Features

Top Wood Maple
Back & Sides Mahogany
Neck Material Mahogany
Fingerboard Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia)
Scale Length 635 mm (25 in)
Frets 22
Electronics Fishman TL-3 Preamp System
Weight Approximately 6.8 lbs (3.1 kg)

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Frequently Asked Questions

The TL-3 is a more basic Fishman system, offering essential EQ controls but lacking some of the advanced features of their higher-end preamps. It’s a great value for amplified performance, though.
The neck profile is a fairly standard 'C' shape – not overly thick or thin. While it’s generally comfortable, the increased string tension of a 12-string might make it a bit more challenging for those with very small hands.
The maple top gives it a more focused and articulate sound compared to some 12-strings that rely more on cedar or spruce, providing a brighter overall character.

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