Is the ESP LTD Phoenix-1004 worth it?

It packs neck-through construction, stainless frets, Gotoh hardware and Fishman Fluence pickups into an LTD-priced instrument. If you want those features and the Phoenix shape, it is strong value; if you need a light bass, look elsewhere.

How does it compare to the Phoenix-1000?

The 1004 steps up to Fishman Fluence SB-1 pickups and stainless steel frets over the 1000's earlier electronics and standard fretwire. Both share the neck-through mahogany build and Phoenix body.

Does it need a battery?

Yes. The Fishman Fluence SB-1 pickups are active and run on a 9V battery, so budget for replacements and unplug the cable when not playing.

ESP lists it at about 11 lbs. That is on the heavy side for a 4-string, so a wide strap helps.

You get the bass itself. A gig bag or case is not included, so plan for one separately.

Watch for holiday sales and end-of-year clearance at large retailers; LTD prices tend to dip during those windows rather than mid-season.

ESP LTD Phoenix-1004 Bass Guitar

Last price we saw

$1,349.00at eBay, last seen Nov 1

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Our take on the ESP LTD Phoenix-1004 Bass Guitar

The ESP LTD Phoenix-1004 is a neck-through, single-cutaway 4-string bass built for players who want a modern take on the classic Phoenix shape. It pairs a mahogany body and 5-piece mahogany/walnut neck with a Macassar ebony board, stainless steel extra-jumbo frets and Fishman Fluence SB-1 active pickups. A Gotoh 201B-4 bridge and LTD Vintage tuners round out the hardware. It is a heavy instrument at about 11 lbs, so try one before committing.

Best forRock and metal bassists who want active, modern tonePlayers who prefer neck-through sustain and upper-fret accessShoppers wanting stainless frets and premium hardware at LTD prices