Traditionally ESP have been known for their super expensive signature editions (i.e. Kirk Hammet Signature model) and uber metal guitars with locking tremelos and serious metal finishes. They are however starting to produce some more classically oriented guitars that offer both versatility and a classic look.
Along with the EC-401VF the PB-401offers a double cutaway in glossy black or White and Gold. In conjunction with the pearloid binding around the top, neck and headstock it creates a striking look that oozes quality.
Perhaps what makes this guitar so versatile however is the Seymour Duncan P-Rails pickups which allow you to switch between humbucker, P-90 and single coil tones from a single pickup unit, This is controlled via a three way mini toggle switch between the main volume and tones knobs.
With 22 jumbo frets, a tune-o-matic bridge and egonomic body the guitar whilst heavy (approx 9lbs) is perfect for emulating the full range of classic Gibson Les Paul tones. The P–Rails also allow you to tap into those brighter sounds thast are typically found with Fender Stratocasters and telecasters.
All in all this is a very versatile instrument that could handle anything from metal through to jazz, country and funk. It’s priced sensibly at just under £800 although not all guitarists will be satisfied with an Indonesian made guitar you would be hard pushed to find better build quality and features at this price.
Specifications:
- Set-Neck
- 24.75†Scale
- Mahogany Body
- Mahogany Neck
- Rosewood Fingerboard
- 42mm Earvana Compensated Nut
- Thin U Neck Contour
- 22 XJ Frets
- Chrome Hardware
- Grover Tuners
- TOM Bridge & Tail
- Seymour Duncan P-Rails Bridge & Neck Pickups with 3-Way Mini-Switch for Rail-Full-Split Function
- Finish: Black
Price: £800
Colours: Black, White, Gold
I just picked up one of these with a flame maple finish…..guy at the guitar store said someone messed up at esp and only 25 were made…dude this axe is sick
This is the least expensive guitar in my collection, but is the most versatile guitar I own. I wanted a guitar I could throw a drop-d sperzel on, so I played this along with some low end PRS and other guitars. My Jem 7V, Jackson and Strats are now in their cases in the closet because I am addicted to this guitar.
The P-Rail P’Ups are outstanding, allowing me to dial anything from the classic LP sound to the Strat “out of phase” sound and just about everything in between. If you need diversity, this is your guitar. I write songs with varying styles so it works for me. Don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Give this one a try.
I think this guitar is a winner all round Drew and a testimony to ESP’s fine attention to detail and ultimately what guitarists want. The only down side is trying to find a dealer in the UK. Right now they are few and far between so it’s difficult for guitarists to actually try one before they buy.
Thats why comments such as yours are so important!
I special ordered this guitar in Pearl White from http://www.thomann.de and it definitly kicks ass. Such quality instrument with sustaine and tone to die for.
I cannot find a dealer anymore. Is that guitar discontinued?
Does any p-rails factory mounted guitar exists anymore ?
Hi Alessandro, are you based in the UK? If so I’m pretty sure that Absolute guitars in Bristol and some of the stores in Denmark Street, London can orders these in.
I bought a gold PB401 through my luthier friend. His client didn’t want it because he decided he didn’t like gold! It was brand new with ESP rectangle case for $350 in 4/2011. That’s a deal any way you view it.
It is a versatile guitar with the Duncan P-Rails, Alpha regular pots and a good switch. The luthier lowered the nut slots and put it on his strobe to get the intonation perfect (Earvana nut is nice!). It plays fast and easy (I tune down 1/2 step and yet the neck relief is very minimal). Frets are well done and the finish i as good as you can expect in an inexpensive guitar.
The PB401 does cover a lot of ground sonically and the GuitarWorld review of the PB500 on YouTube shows what it can sound like with a good guitarist.
To me, it’s a well-priced, but well made and very versatile guitar that can do so much that it’s good enough for most gigs and is comfortable to play and does look good as well.
I wish the Grover buttons were higher quality chrome finished, but they work and the bridge hardware and electronics are pretty good for Indonesia-made.
I’ve been looking for a guitar this versatile but with a Floyd Rose trem. What would you guys go for?