Introducing the LTD RZK-III: Richard ZK’s Latest Signature Guitar from ESP
NAMM 2025: Richard kruspe, known as Richard ZK, has expanded his collection of signature instruments with the unveiling of the new LTD RZK-III by ESP/LTD, designed specifically for the iconic Rammstein guitarist.
Building on previous LP-style and E-II models, the LTD RZK-III presents an enhanced version of ESP’s Phoenix solid-body design, infused with unique features that set it apart.
Fans who have caught Rammstein live recently may have spotted this guitar in action, as Richard ZK has been rigorously testing it on stage.
The Inspiration Behind the Design
The inspiration for this guitar originated from the music video for Freeze My Mind, a track from Kruspe’s solo endeavor, Emigrate. After using a Phoenix model during filming, he developed a strong affinity for its shape and comfort.
Following the shoot,he refined the design by incorporating a square,three-a-side headstock,diverging from the conventional six-in-a-line configuration found on standard models.
Specifications and Features
Finished in a striking Olympic White, the guitar features a three-piece satin-finished neck, crafted as part of a neck-through design complemented by alder wings, mirroring the tonewoods used in his other signature models.
The fingerboard is constructed from rosewood,equipped with 22 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets and glow-in-the-dark side dots for enhanced visibility during performances.
After testing various bridge designs, including Floyd rose and string-through-body options, Kruspe ultimately opted for a classic stoptail setup. He emphasized the importance of sound quality, stating, “If I knew which one was the Floyd Rose I would have chosen that, but when forced to choose only by sound, that was the winner.”
“I was a little bit concerned because normally the stoptail bridge has a different way how your hand lays on the strings. It’s higher,” he explains. “So we recessed the bridge and stoptail into the body of the guitar to use the best sound with the comfort of the Floyd Rose to create the ultimate guitar experience.”
Electronics and Playability
at the heart of the LTD RZK-III are Richard ZK’s signature Fishman Fluence humbuckers, paired with a prominent push-pull volume knob and a mini-toggle switch for selecting various voicings.
The standout feature is the kill switch, which has been ingeniously wired in “the German way”: it only silences the sound after being pressed a second time. This switch has also been strategically positioned closer to the strings for optimal accessibility during live performances.
Priced at $1,999, the LTD RZK-III is now available for pre-order.For more details, visit the LTD website—but watch out for the pyrotechnics!
