ESP Guitars Unveils 2025 Collection: A Bold Shift Towards Single-Pickup Designs
NAMM 2025: ESP Guitars has officially launched its lineup for 2025, making a important statement with its emphasis on single-pickup configurations. This trend is highlighted by several high-profile signature models.
Signature models Leading the Charge
At the forefront is the LTD JM-I, a Superstrat-style guitar designed for Josh Middleton of Sylosis and former Architects fame. This release comes hot on the heels of Mick Thomson’s inaugural signature guitar with ESP.
The LTD JM-I boasts extraordinary features, including a striking Blood Moon finish over a quilted maple top, a Gotoh Tune-O-Matic string-through bridge, an ultra-slim U-shaped neck, and premium LTD locking tuners.
single Pickup Revolution
What stands out most is the single Fishman Fluence Modern humbucker positioned at the bridge, mirroring Thomson’s preferred electronics setup. Out of the 28 new models,a remarkable 14 are exclusively bridge humbucker configurations.
In a musical landscape dominated by djent and thall, where metal guitarists frequently enough prioritize heavy low-end tones and icy clean sounds over conventional shredding, ESP appears to be aligning with current market preferences. The demand for warm neck pickup tones seems to be dwindling.
Notable Models in the Lineup
Among the highlights is the MSV-1 Flying V, featuring a sleek black finish, gold hardware, and loaded with EMG JH pickups. The Phoenix-201, inspired by the Firebird silhouette, has been embraced by Rammstein’s Richard ZK, who has opted for a unique twin humbucker setup. Additionally, the EC-201 caters to those who prefer a Les Paul-style guitar without a neck pickup.
Another standout is the SN-1 HT, which showcases a stealthy aesthetic with a sandblasted black finish on its swamp ash body, also equipped with a Fishman Fluence pickup.
exploring the 201 Range
The 201 series, which includes the Phoenix model, features mahogany bodies, maple necks, and ESP LH-150B pickups with a push-pull coil split control, available in Explorer, Telecaster, and Super strat shapes. notably,the Phoenix opts for a mahogany neck instead of maple.
Embracing the Baritone Trend
ESP is also tapping into the growing popularity of baritone guitars, with models like the XJ-1, a six-string baritone in a Silverburst finish, and the AW-XJ7, a seven-string baritone equipped with an Evertune bridge for Whitechapel’s Alex Wade. The rise of bands like Loathe has considerably contributed to this trend, with six models in the lineup featuring 27” scale lengths. Onyl two of these, the vibrant yellow SC-608 and the Granite Sparkle M-1007, come with dual humbuckers, both utilizing Fishman Fluence technology.
Shifting Trends in Metal Guitars
Last year, Marcos Mena made waves with his Ibanez model featuring a single neck pickup. In contrast, ESP is opting for a more traditional approach with its 2025 offerings, aiming to resonate with the modern metal audience.
ESP’s choice to minimize neck humbuckers in many of its 2025 models is a noteworthy strategy. The increasing popularity of single-pickup guitars has been well-documented, with iconic models like the Fender Tom DeLonge Stratocaster and the EVH striped designs leading the charge. This trend is now making its way into the metal genre.
with the introduction of the Mick Thomson signature model, this could signal the dawn of a new era in metal guitar design.
Innovation at the Core
“Stagnation in guitar design and manufacturing means you’re already falling behind,” stated Matt Masciandaro, president and CEO of ESP Guitar Company. “At ESP, we are committed to continuous innovation, from the components we choose to the materials we source, ensuring we create high-quality instruments across all price ranges. Celebrating 50 years is a remarkable milestone for ESP, but we are focused on the future.”
explore the complete 2025 range at ESP’s official website.
