ESP LTD EC-256, Candy Apple Red Satin

The ESP LTD EC-256 Candy Apple Red Satin combines the warmth and sustain of a traditional mahogany single-cut guitar with the faster feel, sharper styling and tonal flexibility associated with ESP LTD.

Its solid mahogany body and set-neck construction create a substantial, resonant playing experience, while the comfortable Thin U neck profile and 22 extra-jumbo frets make it equally capable of powerful rhythm work, expressive bends and fluid lead playing.

A pair of ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers provides full-bodied clean tones, classic rock crunch and the output needed for heavier distortion. Pulling the master tone control splits the pickups for brighter, leaner sounds, giving the EC-256 considerably more versatility than a conventional dual-humbucker guitar.

Finished in bold Candy Apple Red Satin with black hardware and contrasting binding, this is a distinctive all-round electric guitar for beginners, progressing musicians and experienced players alike.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	ESP LTD
Model	EC-256
Finish	Candy Apple Red Satin
Instrument Type	Solid-body electric guitar
Condition	Brand New
Body Shape	EC single cutaway
Construction	Set neck
Body Material	Mahogany
Neck Material	Three-piece mahogany
Fingerboard	Roasted jatoba
Scale Length	24.75 inches
Pickups	ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers
Electronics	Passive with push-pull coil-splitting
Hardware Colour	Black
Main Appeal	Classic single-cut warmth with modern ESP playability
Best For	Rock, blues, metal, punk, alternative and general-purpose playing
Skill Level	Beginner, intermediate and advanced

Condition Overview

Brand New Condition

This ESP LTD EC-256 Candy Apple Red Satin is offered in brand new condition and has not been previously owned.

Every new instrument is inspected by the Fair Deal Music team before dispatch to ensure that its electronics, hardware and general playability meet our standards.

What’s Included?

• ESP LTD EC-256 Candy Apple Red Satin electric guitar

• No case or gig bag is included

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

Before dispatch, our team checks the guitar’s pickups, push-pull coil-split, volume and tone controls, pickup selector, output socket, tuning machines, bridge, neck, frets and overall playability.

The electronics are tested in each pickup position and in both full-humbucker and split-coil modes. The guitar is also checked for stable tuning and consistent performance across the fingerboard.

Service and Setup Work Performed

The guitar receives a general inspection, tuning check and playability assessment before leaving Fair Deal Music.

Individual setup preferences vary according to playing style, preferred action, string gauge and tuning.

Why Choose the ESP LTD EC-256?

Classic EC Single-Cut Design

The EC-256 takes the familiar single-cut electric guitar format and gives it ESP’s sharper, more modern visual identity.

Its carved body, pointed headstock, contrasting binding and black hardware create a premium appearance, while the body remains comfortable for seated practice, rehearsals and standing performance.

Solid Mahogany Construction

The solid mahogany body provides a warm and substantial tonal foundation with strong midrange presence and natural sustain.

Clean chords have plenty of body, overdriven rhythm tones sound rich and full, and lead notes retain warmth as they sustain. Mahogany also complements the guitar’s humbuckers by producing powerful tones without becoming excessively bright or harsh.

Set-Neck Design

The three-piece mahogany neck is permanently joined to the body using set-neck construction.

This creates a solid connection between the neck and body, supporting sustain and giving the instrument a connected, resonant playing response.

The sculpted EC heel also provides more comfortable upper-fret access than many traditionally shaped single-cut guitars.

Thin U Neck Profile

ESP’s Thin U neck contour offers a streamlined feel without becoming excessively narrow.

It is comfortable for:

• Open and barre chords

• Power chords

• Fast position changes

• Rhythm and lead transitions

• Wide string bends

• Controlled vibrato

• Extended practice and performance sessions

The three-piece construction provides a stable foundation for regular playing, recording and live use.

Comfortable 24.75-Inch Scale

The EC-256 uses a 24.75-inch scale length, creating a slightly softer string feel than a longer 25.5-inch-scale guitar.

This can make bends and vibrato more comfortable while also allowing heavier string gauges to feel manageable. The shorter scale contributes to the warm response and singing sustain associated with classic single-cut instruments.

Roasted Jatoba Fingerboard

The roasted jatoba fingerboard provides a smooth, firm playing surface with a dark appearance that complements the Candy Apple Red Satin finish.

ESP flag inlays give the guitar a distinctive LTD identity while allowing fret positions to be identified quickly.

22 Extra-Jumbo Frets

The EC-256 features 22 extra-jumbo frets.

Their larger dimensions support a relatively light fretting touch and provide a smooth feel for bends, vibrato and fast lead techniques.

The 350mm fingerboard radius creates a modern playing surface that remains comfortable for chord work while supporting wider bends and expressive upper-register playing.

ESP Designed LH-150 Humbuckers

The EC-256 is equipped with an ESP Designed LH-150N neck humbucker and LH-150B bridge humbucker.

These passive pickups provide a versatile response that covers clean, overdriven and high-gain sounds without requiring a battery.

LH-150B Bridge Pickup

The bridge humbucker delivers a focused sound with strong attack and enough output for powerful distorted tones.

It is particularly effective for:

• Power chords

• Palm-muted riffs

• Classic and modern rock

• Hard rock and metal

• Punk and alternative rhythm parts

• Artificial harmonics

• Focused lead sounds

Its clear response helps individual notes remain defined when using overdrive, distortion or high-gain amplification.

LH-150N Neck Pickup

The neck humbucker produces a warmer and smoother response suited to:

• Clean chords

• Melodic lead playing

• Blues-influenced tones

• Warm rhythm sounds

• Fluid legato passages

• Sustained solos

• Detailed arpeggios

It provides a clear tonal contrast to the more aggressive bridge pickup without becoming overly dark or indistinct.

Push-Pull Coil-Splitting

Pulling the master tone control splits the humbuckers, creating brighter and leaner sounds with a more single-coil-like character.

The split settings are useful for:

• Clean rhythm guitar

• Brighter chord voicings

• Lower-gain overdrive

• Indie and alternative sounds

• Layered studio parts

• Sections requiring greater note separation

Pushing the control back down restores the pickups’ full humbucker response.

This additional flexibility allows the EC-256 to cover a broader range of sounds than a conventional dual-humbucker single-cut guitar.

Flexible Control Layout

The EC-256 provides:

• Individual neck-pickup volume

• Individual bridge-pickup volume

• Master push-pull tone control

• Three-way pickup selector

The separate volume controls allow the output of each pickup to be adjusted independently.

Players can prepare contrasting volume levels and switch between them using the pickup selector, making it possible to move quickly between cleaner and more driven sounds without adjusting the amplifier.

Fixed Tune-O-Matic-Style Bridge

The Tune-O-Matic-style bridge and separate tailpiece provide a stable and familiar platform for the strings.

Individual saddles allow accurate intonation adjustment, while the fixed design provides several practical advantages:

• Straightforward restringing

• Dependable tuning stability

• Consistent palm-muting position

• Simple action and intonation adjustment

• Easier alternative-tuning changes

• Lower maintenance than a floating tremolo

This makes the EC-256 a practical option for beginners, regular performers and players who frequently move between different tunings.

Candy Apple Red Satin Finish

The Candy Apple Red Satin finish gives the EC-256 a vivid appearance without the highly reflective surface of a traditional gloss finish.

Its low-sheen texture gives the red colour a smooth, contemporary character, while black hardware, dark pickup covers and contrasting binding define the instrument’s single-cut outline.

The result is bold enough to command attention on stage while remaining refined and understated.

Why Choose a Dual-Humbucker Single-Cut Guitar?

A dual-humbucker single-cut is one of the most versatile formats in electric guitar design.

The bridge pickup provides the attack and definition required for rhythm playing, while the neck pickup supplies warmer cleans and smoother lead tones.

The EC-256 expands this traditional format through its push-pull coil-split, allowing it to cover:

• Clean rhythm guitar

• Blues

• Classic rock

• Hard rock

• Heavy metal

• Punk

• Alternative music

• Indie

• Lead and rhythm recording

Its fixed bridge and passive electronics also make it straightforward to use and maintain.

Who Is It For?

Beginner Guitarists

The fixed bridge, passive electronics and familiar controls make the EC-256 approachable for new players.

Its broad tonal range also allows beginners to explore several genres without quickly outgrowing their instrument.

Intermediate Players

Developing musicians will appreciate the set-neck construction, comfortable Thin U profile and additional sounds provided by the push-pull coil-split.

Rock and Metal Guitarists

The LH-150B bridge humbucker provides the attack and output required for distorted riffs, power chords and focused lead tones.

Blues and Classic-Rock Players

The shorter scale, warm mahogany construction and neck humbucker create a smooth, expressive response for bends, vibrato and lower-gain playing.

Recording Musicians

Dual humbuckers, independent pickup volumes and split-coil operation provide several useful tones for layering rhythm and lead parts.

Live Performers

The fixed bridge, straightforward electronics and striking Candy Apple Red Satin finish make the EC-256 a dependable and visually distinctive stage guitar.

Experienced Players Seeking a Second Instrument

The EC-256 is also a strong choice for rehearsals, home recording, teaching or use in an alternative tuning.

Sound and Playing Character

The EC-256 has a warm and sustaining tonal foundation with enough clarity for both clean and distorted playing.

Bridge Pickup Sound

The LH-150B bridge pickup provides:

• Defined rhythm attack

• Powerful distorted chords

• Clear palm-muted notes

• Strong harmonic response

• Focused lead tones

• Classic and modern rock sounds

Neck Pickup Sound

The LH-150N neck pickup offers:

• Warm clean chords

• Smooth sustained leads

• Rounded rhythm tones

• Fluid legato sounds

• Expressive blues tones

• Full melodic lines

Combined Pickup Position

Selecting both pickups creates a broad and balanced sound that combines the neck pickup’s warmth with the sharper response of the bridge position.

This setting works particularly well for clean rhythm playing, medium-gain sounds and open chord voicings.

Split-Coil Sounds

Activating the push-pull control introduces brighter tones with reduced output and a more open response.

These settings are useful when the full humbuckers sound too thick or powerful for a particular part.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	ESP LTD
Series	EC Series
Model	EC-256
Product Code	10011357
Orientation	Right-handed
Instrument Type	Solid-body electric guitar
Finish	Candy Apple Red Satin
Body Shape	EC single cutaway
Construction	Set neck
Scale Length	24.75 inches / approximately 629mm
Body Material	Mahogany
Neck Material	Three-piece mahogany
Neck Profile	Thin U
Fingerboard Material	Roasted jatoba
Fingerboard Radius	350mm
Fingerboard Inlays	ESP flag inlays
Number of Frets	22
Fret Type	Extra jumbo
Nut Width	42mm
Nut Type	Moulded
Neck Pickup	ESP Designed LH-150N humbucker
Bridge Pickup	ESP Designed LH-150B humbucker
Pickup Type	Passive
Coil-Split	Push-pull master tone control
Controls	Neck volume, bridge volume and push-pull master tone
Pickup Selector	Three-way toggle switch
Bridge	Tune-O-Matic style with tailpiece
Tuning Machines	LTD
Hardware Colour	Black
Factory Strings	D’Addario XL110
Factory String Gauges	.010, .013, .017, .026, .036 and .046

Power Requirements

The ESP Designed LH-150 pickups use passive electronics and do not require a battery or external power supply.

ESP LTD EC-256 Compared with Other EC Models

Compared with the ESP LTD EC-201

The EC-201 uses a focused single-pickup layout centred on powerful bridge-pickup tones.

The EC-256 provides two humbuckers, independent pickup volumes and coil-splitting, making it the more versatile option for players who regularly move between clean, rhythm and lead sounds.

Compared with the ESP LTD EC-400

The EC-400 Series introduces higher-level hardware and professional pickup systems on selected models.

The EC-256 delivers the essential set-neck EC playing experience at a more accessible price.

Compared with the ESP LTD EC-1000

The EC-1000 Series is designed for demanding professional use and can include stainless-steel frets, premium pickups, locking hardware and advanced construction details.

The EC-256 is ideal for players who want the appearance and character of the EC design without requiring the complete professional specification of the 1000 Series.

Compared with a Tremolo-Equipped Guitar

A tremolo bridge allows expressive pitch effects but introduces additional setup and maintenance requirements.

The EC-256’s fixed bridge makes restringing, alternative tunings and everyday adjustment more straightforward.

Compared with a Traditional Single-Cut Guitar

The EC-256 retains the warm mahogany construction, shorter scale and sustained response associated with traditional single-cut instruments.

Its Thin U neck, extra-jumbo frets and coil-splittable pickups give it a faster and more flexible modern character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ESP LTD EC-256 suitable for beginners?

Yes. Its fixed bridge, passive electronics and familiar control layout make it straightforward to operate and maintain.

It also offers enough tonal range and playing quality to remain useful as the player develops.

Can the EC-256 produce single-coil-style sounds?

Yes. Pulling the master tone control splits the humbuckers for brighter, lower-output tones.

Are both pickups affected by the coil-split?

Yes. The push-pull tone control provides split-coil operation for the neck and bridge humbuckers.

Is the EC-256 suitable for metal?

Yes. The bridge humbucker provides enough output and definition for hard-rock and metal rhythm or lead playing.

Can it produce clean tones?

Yes. The neck pickup provides warm clean sounds, while the split-coil settings offer brighter alternatives with greater note separation.

Does the guitar require a battery?

No. The ESP Designed LH-150 pickups use passive electronics.

Is it suitable for lower tunings?

Yes. The fixed bridge makes alternative tunings straightforward.

A heavier string gauge and suitable setup may be required when tuning substantially below standard pitch.

Does it have a tremolo system?

No. The EC-256 uses a fixed Tune-O-Matic-style bridge and tailpiece.

What is the advantage of set-neck construction?

Set-neck construction creates a solid connection between the neck and body that supports sustain and provides a smooth playing transition into the upper register.

Is the Candy Apple Red Satin finish glossy?

No. The satin finish has a smooth, low-sheen appearance rather than the highly reflective surface of a gloss finish.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The ESP LTD EC-256 Candy Apple Red Satin is an outstanding all-round electric guitar that combines classic single-cut warmth with comfortable modern playability and genuinely useful tonal flexibility.

Its mahogany construction provides depth and sustain, while the Thin U neck and extra-jumbo frets create an approachable playing experience for both rhythm and lead guitarists. The LH-150 humbuckers deliver convincing clean, rock and metal sounds, with push-pull coil-splitting adding brighter tones for more detailed rhythm work.

The vivid satin finish and black hardware give this version a particularly distinctive visual identity. It is an excellent choice for beginners seeking a guitar they can grow into and experienced musicians looking for a versatile, dependable instrument.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide delivery

• Flexible finance options available, subject to status

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think. We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment.

Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available. It is an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.