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LTD M-50
List: $395
The world does not need another stodgy entry-level guitar in the market, particularly a subsidiary offering by a major brand name. This is definitely not the case with ESP’s LTD series 50 models, albeit being basement offerings in the LTD hierarchy. The LTD M-50 is another satin finished offering in this category, together with other praise-worthy family members, the Eclipse, Viper, Horizon et al.
Construction/ Fit/ Finish
Once you read the ‘Crafted in Indonesia’ sticker at the rear of the headstock, your biased mind would conjure a sub-standard expectation of this unadorned guitar. Let not the label fool you because this M-50 is a well-built unit, top marks for a flawless finish, & fit. Unlike other entry-level models in this price class, the M-50 radiates a solid aura & that’s before you even handle the guitar.
The M-50 also features a reinforcement volute at the headstock’s flip side, an uncommon feature for an entry-level, but the manufacturer’s intent of having an affordable guitar with a lasting neck, is an applaudable one.
Playability/ Tone
Once you handle this guitar, you’ll feel the solid build immediately. The M-50 scores unimpressively in looks (that jaded, super-strat look… yawn) but the very presence it generates will make up for that loss. The neck has a very Jackson feel to it; thick & broad for massive power chords & ample finger acrobatics. The jumbo frets on board also ensure competent bends & make fretting a little easier for starters.
The tone from the twin humbuckers here might just be the very feature that’ll make you proud. The clean tones from the pair are criminally average but the default ESP brand humbuckers here, have a generous output to make the driven tones worthy for the asking price. The satin finish does well to balance the frequencies on offer here, there’s just sufficient amount of bass, midrange & treble coming from both the neck & bridge pickup. There is a particularly pleasing transparency coming from the former humbucker, rivaling that of Duncan’s ’59 if you just EQ your tone accordingly. Both units are positively drive-inclined, so there’s plenty of harmonics on board.
The primary grievance with this guitar would be the bridge saddles. Featured are 6 independently adjustable units whose action adjustment screws protrude excessively from their burrows. Adding to the hazard are the sharp tips, so if you are the grind master whom you’ve always been, it’s wise to file down these protrusion to prevent a ravaged palm.
Last say
The M-50 is a no-frills entry level guitar that warrants your consideration if you are after a non-dodgy starter unit. I am in admiration of its rigid, conscientious construction & finish. If you aren’t too forthcoming with the default humbuckers here, do supplement it with a chorus pedal to make the clean tones more congenial. Dive bombers, be informed that the uni-directional, non-locking vibrato bridge isn’t a proponent of return-to pitch accuracy. Also, the reversed headstock needs familiarization but it isn’t a major repugnance. Highly recommended.
Likes:
Simple, functional guitar
Humbuckers are superb at high gain settings
Well made/ assembled
Price
Dislikes:
Protruding bridge saddle screws
Humbuckers not too pleasing at clean settings
Worthy rival:
Ibanez RG321MH
Rating: 8.5/10
