ESP LTD M-1000 HT Black Fade

The ESP LTD M-1000 HT Black Fade is a professional-performance electric guitar designed for speed, precision and powerful modern tone. Its streamlined M-Series body, neck-through construction and Extra Thin U neck make it an outstanding choice for technical players, modern metal guitarists and musicians who demand effortless upper-fret access.

An alder body provides a clear and balanced tonal foundation, while the dramatically figured burled poplar top gives the Black Fade finish its distinctive appearance. The three-piece maple neck runs through the body for excellent stability, sustain and response, with a natural satin finish on the rear helping the hand move freely during fast passages.

Direct-mounted Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers deliver two selectable voices. The ceramic bridge pickup provides tight, aggressive rhythm sounds, while the alnico neck pickup offers fluid lead tones and articulate cleans. Pulling the tone control changes both pickups to their alternative voicing, providing additional tonal flexibility without complicating the control layout.

A Hipshot fixed bridge, string-through-body construction, LTD locking tuners and 24 stainless-steel frets complete a highly specified instrument built for demanding stage and studio use.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	ESP LTD
Model	M-1000 HT
Series	LTD Deluxe 1000 Series
Finish	Black Natural Fade
Common Finish Name	Black Fade
Instrument Type	Solid-body electric guitar
Condition	Brand New
Body Shape	M-Series double cutaway
Construction	Neck-through-body
Body Material	Alder
Top Material	Burled poplar
Scale Length	25.5 inches
Pickups	Fishman Fluence Modern Alnico and Ceramic humbuckers
Bridge	Hipshot fixed bridge with string-through-body design
Main Appeal	Fast playability, modern active tones and fixed-bridge stability
Best For	Metal, progressive rock, technical playing, recording and live performance
Skill Level	Intermediate and advanced

Condition Overview

Brand New Condition

This ESP LTD M-1000 HT Black Fade is offered in brand new condition.

It is a current retail instrument supplied through Fair Deal Music and has not been previously owned. Every new instrument is inspected by our team before dispatch to ensure it meets our standards for presentation, operation and playability.

What’s Included?

• ESP LTD M-1000 HT Black Fade electric guitar

• No case or gig bag is included

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

Before dispatch, our team checks the guitar’s Fishman Fluence pickups, dual-voice switching, volume and tone controls, pickup selector, output, locking tuners, Hipshot bridge, neck, frets and general playability.

The guitar is also checked for stable tuning, clean electronic operation and consistent performance across the fingerboard.

Service and Setup Work Performed

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

Setup preferences vary between players, particularly when changing string gauge, using alternative tunings or adjusting the action for a particular playing technique.

Why Choose the ESP LTD M-1000 HT?

Built for Speed and Precision

The M-1000 HT is designed around the requirements of fast and technically demanding guitar playing.

Its Extra Thin U neck, compound-radius fingerboard and smooth neck-through heel provide an effortless platform for rapid position changes, legato, alternate picking, sweep picking and extended lead passages.

The body’s double-cutaway design also allows unrestricted access to all 24 frets.

Neck-Through-Body Construction

The three-piece maple neck extends through the centre of the guitar, with the alder body sections attached around it.

This creates a continuous structural connection from the headstock through the body, supporting:

• Excellent upper-fret access

• Strong sustain

• Consistent note response

• A stable and connected playing feel

• Smooth access around the neck joint

The absence of a traditional bolt-on heel is particularly beneficial for guitarists who regularly play in the highest register.

Natural Satin Neck Finish

The rear of the neck has a natural satin finish rather than a thick gloss coating.

This creates a smooth, low-friction feel that allows the hand to move quickly along the neck. It is especially useful during long rehearsals, technical performances and recording sessions where comfort and consistency are essential.

Alder Body

The alder body provides a clear, balanced response with firm low frequencies, present mids and controlled highs.

Its tonal character complements the powerful Fishman Fluence pickups by helping heavily distorted notes remain articulate and defined. It also provides enough natural balance for clean, lower-gain and atmospheric playing.

Burled Poplar Top

The burled poplar top gives the M-1000 HT its dramatic visual identity.

Natural knots, swirls and grain patterns remain visible beneath the Black Fade finish, creating an appearance that changes according to the lighting and viewing angle.

Because burled poplar is naturally figured, each guitar has its own individual grain pattern.

Fishman Fluence Modern Ceramic Bridge Pickup

The bridge position uses a direct-mounted Fishman Fluence Modern Ceramic humbucker.

Its immediate attack, tight bass response and controlled output make it particularly effective for:

• Palm-muted riffs

• Modern metal rhythm playing

• Drop-tuned guitar parts

• Fast alternate picking

• Powerful power chords

• High-gain lead tones

• Artificial harmonics

The pickup remains clear and focused through significant amounts of distortion, allowing individual notes to retain definition within complex chords and fast passages.

Fishman Fluence Modern Alnico Neck Pickup

The Fishman Fluence Modern Alnico neck humbucker delivers a smoother response with warmth, clarity and fluid sustain.

It works particularly well for:

• Expressive lead playing

• Legato passages

• Clean arpeggios

• Atmospheric chords

• Warm rhythm sounds

• Sustained neck-pickup solos

Its clear lower-frequency response helps prevent fast neck-pickup passages from becoming muddy or indistinct.

Two Selectable Pickup Voices

The push-pull tone control changes the operating voice of both Fishman Fluence pickups.

This gives the M-1000 HT two distinct sets of humbucker sounds without introducing additional switches or complicated controls.

Voice 1 provides the immediate, powerful response associated with modern active pickups. Pulling the tone control activates Voice 2, offering an alternative character with a more dynamic and traditionally voiced response.

This allows the guitar to move between tightly controlled modern tones and more organic sounds suitable for classic rock, alternative music and lower-gain playing.

Direct-Mounted Pickups

Both pickups are mounted directly into the body rather than suspended from pickup rings.

This creates a clean, streamlined appearance and provides a solid mounting platform. It also complements the M-1000 HT’s modern, performance-focused design.

Compound-Radius Fingerboard

The Macassar ebony fingerboard uses a compound radius that changes from 300mm towards the nut to 400mm higher up the neck.

The rounder lower section supports comfortable chord playing, while the flatter upper section is ideal for:

• Wide string bends

• Low action

• Fast lead playing

• Tapping

• Sweep picking

• Upper-register vibrato

This gives the neck a natural progression from rhythm playing near the nut to technical lead work higher up the fingerboard.

Macassar Ebony Fingerboard

Macassar ebony provides a smooth and firm playing surface with a clear, immediate response.

Its natural density contributes to note definition and attack, complementing the balanced alder body and maple neck.

24 Stainless-Steel Frets

The M-1000 HT is fitted with 24 extra-jumbo stainless-steel frets.

Stainless-steel fretwire is highly resistant to normal playing wear and provides an exceptionally smooth surface for string bends and vibrato.

The extra-jumbo dimensions also support a lighter fretting touch, while the 24-fret layout gives the player a full two-octave range on each string.

Hipshot Fixed Bridge

The Hipshot fixed bridge provides a stable, low-profile platform for the strings.

Its individual saddles allow accurate adjustment of string height and intonation, while the hardtail design avoids the additional maintenance associated with a floating tremolo system.

The low-profile shape is also comfortable beneath the picking hand during palm-muted rhythm playing.

String-Through-Body Design

The strings pass through the rear of the guitar before travelling across the Hipshot bridge.

This provides a secure anchor point and contributes to the guitar’s solid, responsive feel.

LTD Locking Tuners

The locking tuning machines hold each string securely at the post, reducing the number of winds needed during restringing.

This makes string changes faster and helps minimise string slippage once the strings have settled.

Why Choose a Hardtail Performance Guitar?

A hardtail guitar uses a fixed bridge without a tremolo arm or floating mechanism.

This provides several practical benefits for players who do not require pitch effects:

• Straightforward restringing

• Dependable tuning stability

• Easier alternative-tuning changes

• Consistent palm-muting position

• Simple intonation adjustment

• Reduced maintenance

• Stable response during aggressive picking

The M-1000 HT combines these hardtail advantages with the speed and upper-fret access associated with ESP’s performance-focused M Series.

Who Is It For?

Modern Metal Guitarists

The Fishman Fluence pickups, 25.5-inch scale and fixed Hipshot bridge provide the tightness, clarity and stability required for modern metal rhythm playing.

Technical and Progressive Players

The Extra Thin U neck, compound radius, stainless-steel frets and neck-through construction make the M-1000 HT highly suitable for technical lead work and progressive styles.

Recording Musicians

Its controlled output and excellent note separation make it a strong studio instrument, especially for layered rhythm parts and detailed high-gain recording.

Live Performers

The locking tuners, fixed bridge and durable fretwork create a reliable platform for regular rehearsals, touring and professional stage use.

Players Using Alternative Tunings

The fixed bridge makes tuning changes more straightforward than they would be on a floating tremolo guitar.

A suitable setup and heavier strings may be required when moving substantially below standard tuning.

Guitarists Upgrading to a Professional Instrument

The premium pickups, neck-through construction, Hipshot bridge and stainless-steel frets make the M-1000 HT a major upgrade from an entry-level or intermediate guitar.

Sound and Playing Character

The M-1000 HT has a fast, immediate response with excellent clarity and a controlled low end.

The alder body and maple neck provide a balanced tonal foundation, while the Fishman Fluence pickups produce the output and definition required for demanding modern styles.

Bridge Pickup

The ceramic bridge pickup delivers:

• Tight palm-muted attack

• Focused low frequencies

• Strong note separation

• Aggressive rhythm tones

• Clear extended chords

• Responsive harmonics

• Cutting lead sounds

Neck Pickup

The alnico neck pickup provides:

• Smooth lead tones

• Warm clean sounds

• Articulate arpeggios

• Fluid legato response

• Controlled bass frequencies

• Sustained melodic lines

Combined Pickup Position

Using both pickups creates a broad, detailed sound that balances the attack of the bridge pickup with the warmth of the neck position.

This setting works well for clean chords, atmospheric effects, layered rhythm parts and medium-gain sounds.

Alternative Voice Setting

Pulling the tone control activates the second voice of both pickups.

This setting provides a different response with greater dynamic variation and a more traditional pickup character, extending the guitar beyond highly compressed modern metal tones.

Black Fade Finish

The Black Fade finish darkens towards the outer edges of the body while allowing the natural burled poplar pattern to remain visible through the central area.

Black hardware, direct-mounted pickups and the sharply styled ESP headstock complement the finish without distracting from the figured top.

The natural satin rear neck also provides a contrasting appearance while delivering a faster playing feel.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	ESP LTD
Series	LTD Deluxe 1000 Series
Model	M-1000 HT
Orientation	Right-handed
Instrument Type	Solid-body electric guitar
Finish	Black Natural Fade
Body Shape	M-Series double cutaway
Construction	Neck-through-body
Scale Length	25.5 inches / approximately 648mm
Body Material	Alder
Top Material	Burled poplar
Neck Material	Three-piece maple
Rear Neck Finish	Natural satin
Neck Profile	Extra Thin U
Fingerboard Material	Macassar ebony
Fingerboard Radius	300–400mm compound radius
Number of Frets	24
Fret Type	Extra-jumbo stainless steel
Nut Width	43mm
Nut Type	Moulded
Neck Pickup	Fishman Fluence Modern Alnico humbucker
Bridge Pickup	Fishman Fluence Modern Ceramic humbucker
Pickup Mounting	Direct mounted
Electronics	Active
Pickup Voices	Two selectable voices
Controls	Master volume and push-pull master tone
Pickup Selector	Three-way blade switch
Bridge	Hipshot fixed bridge
String Routing	String-through-body
Tuning Machines	LTD locking
Hardware Colour	Black
Strap Buttons	Standard
Factory Strings	D’Addario XL110
Factory String Gauges	.010, .013, .017, .026, .036 and .046
Case or Gig Bag	Not included

Power Requirements

The Fishman Fluence active pickups require a 9V battery.

The guitar does not require an external power supply. Disconnect the instrument cable when the guitar is not being used, as leaving a cable connected keeps the active electronic system switched on and reduces battery life.

ESP LTD M-1000 HT Compared with Other Guitars

Compared with a Floyd Rose-Equipped M-1000

A Floyd Rose-equipped M-1000 allows dramatic pitch effects and provides excellent tuning stability when correctly set up.

The M-1000 HT uses a fixed Hipshot bridge, making string changes, alternative tunings and setup adjustments more straightforward.

The hardtail model is the stronger choice for players who prioritise simplicity and stable rhythm performance over tremolo effects.

Compared with the ESP LTD M-1007 HT

The M-1007 HT follows the same performance-focused concept but adds a seventh string for an extended lower range.

The six-string M-1000 HT provides a more familiar neck width and traditional six-string range, making it ideal for players who do not require the additional low string.

Compared with the ESP LTD EC-1000

The EC-1000 offers a shorter 24.75-inch scale and a single-cutaway body with a more substantial traditional feel.

The M-1000 HT has a longer 25.5-inch scale, a slimmer Extra Thin U neck and a double-cutaway body designed for maximum upper-fret access.

The M-1000 HT is particularly suited to players who prioritise speed, tighter string tension and technical performance.

Compared with a Passive-Pickup Superstrat

Passive pickups often provide a broader dynamic range and respond strongly to changes in picking pressure and guitar-volume settings.

The Fishman Fluence system provides a powerful, controlled output with low noise and consistent definition. The selectable second voice also introduces a more dynamic alternative when required.

Compared with a Bolt-On Guitar

A bolt-on guitar often produces a pronounced attack and allows the neck to be removed or replaced.

The M-1000 HT’s neck-through construction provides a smoother heel, uninterrupted upper-fret access and a highly connected feel between the neck and body.

Pairs Perfectly With

The ESP LTD M-1000 HT works particularly well with:

• High-gain valve amplifiers

• Modern modelling amplifiers

• Profiling systems

• Overdrive and boost pedals

• Noise gates

• Compressor pedals

• Pitch-shifting effects

• Audio interfaces

• Digital recording systems

• Professional live pedalboards

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ESP LTD M-1000 HT suitable for metal?

Yes. Its Fishman Fluence pickups, fixed bridge, long scale and fast neck make it exceptionally well suited to modern metal, progressive music, hard rock and technical playing.

What does the push-pull tone control do?

Pulling the tone control changes both Fishman Fluence pickups to their second voice. This provides a different tonal response without changing pickups or adding extra switches.

Does it have a coil-split function?

This model uses the push-pull tone control to select the second humbucker voice. The factory control layout is not described as a conventional coil-split system.

Is it suitable for lower tunings?

Yes. The 25.5-inch scale, fixed Hipshot bridge and ceramic bridge pickup make it a strong option for reduced tunings.

Heavier strings and an appropriate setup may be required when tuning substantially below standard pitch.

Is the Hipshot bridge adjustable?

Yes. The individual saddles allow string height and intonation to be adjusted during setup.

What is the benefit of a compound-radius fingerboard?

The rounder lower section feels comfortable for chords, while the flatter upper section supports fast lead playing and wide bends with a low action.

Are stainless-steel frets better for heavy use?

Stainless-steel frets are exceptionally resistant to normal wear and provide a smooth surface for bends and vibrato, making them well suited to regular playing and touring.

Do the pickups require a battery?

Yes. The active Fishman Fluence electronics require a 9V battery.

Can the M-1000 HT produce clean sounds?

Yes. The alnico neck pickup produces clear and articulate clean sounds, while the alternative pickup voices expand the guitar’s lower-gain tonal range.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

A committed beginner could learn on the M-1000 HT, but its premium specification and performance-focused design are primarily aimed at progressing, intermediate and advanced guitarists.

Does it have a tremolo system?

No. The M-1000 HT uses a fixed Hipshot hardtail bridge and does not include a tremolo arm.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The ESP LTD M-1000 HT Black Fade is an exceptional high-performance guitar for players who value speed, clarity and rock-solid hardtail stability.

Its Extra Thin U neck, compound-radius Macassar ebony fingerboard and 24 stainless-steel frets create an effortless playing platform, while the neck-through construction provides outstanding upper-fret access. The Fishman Fluence Modern pickup set delivers tight, articulate high-gain tones alongside useful alternative voices for clean, rock and lower-gain sounds.

The Hipshot fixed bridge and locking tuners make it a dependable option for live performance, studio recording and alternative tunings. Combined with its dramatic burled poplar top, the M-1000 HT is a professional-quality instrument that sounds as powerful as it looks.

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's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.