The ESP LTD 400 Series is designed with the professional performing and recording musician in mind, but is available at a price that even casual players can afford. With the M-403HT, you get the hardtail superguitar that you always wanted, with an HSS pickup configuration that includes two Seymour Duncan STK-S4 stacked single coils in the neck and middle position, and a screaming Custom-5 in the bridge. You can select and combine them with a 5-way selector switch.

One of the most striking aspects of the M-403HT is its Natural Satin-finished flamed maple top, which caps a mahogany body. The extra thin flat-shaped three-piece maple neck is also satin-finished for smooth playing feel, and its bolt-on construction at 25.5" scale is great for serious shredders. The M-403HT also offers high-class touches you don't expect in its price range, like complete binding on the body, neck, and headstock, and Grover tuners.