SAINTE-GENEVIÈVE-DES-BOIS, France
About this listing
Carefully inspected and professionally set up by our luthier workshop, this guitar is a brand new instrument (B-Stock) with atiny factory mark, almost invisible, on the back (see last picture).ESP Deluxe Hardcase and original adjustment tools included.ESP LTD Sparrowhawk VSSB VSSB Vintage Silver Sunburst Bill Kelliher SignatureMIK (Made in Korea)Serial: W24042321Weight: 3.710 kgSolid body electric guitar, Gibson Firebird Non-Reverse typeBody: MahoganyConstruction: Set-ThruTop: MapleBinding: Multi-ply white/black body + neck + headstockNeck: 3-piece mahoganyProfile: Thin UJoint: Set-ThruFingerboard: Macassar ebonyScale length: 24.75" / 628 mmRadius: 350 mm / 13.78"Frets: 22 Extra Jumbo (XJ)Inlays: Pearloid blockNut: MoldedNut width: 42 mmPickup configuration: HHNeck pickup: MojoTone BK Hellbender Aged NickelBridge pickup: MojoTone BK Hellbender Aged NickelControls: Volume push/pull / Tone push/pull3-way switchBridge: TonePros locking TOM & tailpieceTuners: LTD locking tunersHardware: NickelESP is one of those brands that has helped define the sound and aesthetics of modern metal, with an immediately recognizable identity: guitars designed for stage performance, power, and uncompromising efficiency. Among the artists who perfectly embody this philosophy, Bill Kelliher is an essential name. As the true architect of Mastodon’s massive sound, Kelliher has established himself through colossal riffing, a powerful sense of groove, and a metal approach that is both heavy and refined. The ESP LTD Sparrowhawk VSSB Signature perfectly reflects this personality: an imposing, unconventional, and incredibly effective guitar, designed to deliver monumental riffs with an immediately identifiable character.Visually, the Sparrowhawk has a truly unique presence. It features a massive, aggressive offset design that blends vintage and modern influences with a great deal of personality. The VSSB (Vintage Silver Sunburst) finish brings an almost American “muscle car” vibe: classy, dark, and intensely menacing. Where many metal signature guitars lean toward visual excess, this LTD instead focuses on raw charisma and bold style. Its look immediately evokes heaviness and power while maintaining real elegance. It’s a guitar that radiates something very “Mastodon”: massive, organic, and deeply rooted in rock DNA.But this LTD truly shines once it is plugged in and in your hands. The three-piece set-neck mahogany neck provides an extremely solid and resonant feel, with impressive natural sustain. The Thin U profile remains comfortable despite the instrument’s generous size, allowing both heavy rhythm playing and smoother lead lines. The ebony fingerboard adds precision and a tight attack that greatly enhances clarity in low tunings and complex riffs. You immediately feel that this guitar was designed to maintain definition even under extreme saturation.The pair of MojoTone BK Hellbender pickups, specially designed for Bill Kelliher, delivers exactly what you would expect from a signature instrument of this level: massive low end, rich and thick mids, and a powerful yet controlled attack. Designed specifically to match his playing style and sonic universe with Mastodon, these pickups excel at handling heavy gain while maintaining excellent definition. Riffs remain clear and articulated, even in low tunings and high distortion, without ever turning to mud. Lead tones gain thickness and character without becoming harsh, with a very organic response that allows the playing to breathe. Unlike more modern, heavily compressed pickups, the Hellbenders retain real dynamics, enhancing the lively and expressive feel of the guitar. This custom design directly shapes the Sparrowhawk’s sonic identity, perfectly suited for heavy textures, sludge, stoner rock, and the heavy progressive atmospheres typical of Bill Kelliher.The TonePros locking bridge, combined with LTD locking tuners, ensures excellent tuning stability and contributes to the overall sense of reliability. Everything about it feels robust: this guitar is clearly built to withstand touring, low tunings, and high volume without ever faltering. It gives the reassuring impression of a serious instrument designed for musicians who play loud and long.It is also worth highlighting how successful the Korean manufacturing of this LTD is. High-end LTD Korean production now enjoys a very strong reputation, and this Sparrowhawk confirms it immediately. The finishing is impeccable, the frets are perfectly dressed, the binding is extremely clean, and the overall assembly inspires confidence. From the very first touch, you get a premium feel that easily rivals much more expensive instruments. The overall balance, build precision, and attention to detail clearly demonstrate the quality of ESP LTD’s best current Korean production.Ultimately, the ESP LTD Sparrowhawk achieves something quite rare: offering an extremely bold design without ever compromising pure musical function. This is not just a signature model for Mastodon fans; it is a true riff machine built for guitarists seeking character, power, and a strong sonic identity. An imposing, inspiring, and highly cohesive instrument aligned perfectly with Bill Kelliher’s musical world.
Original Price€2,399
32% price drop
New Price€1,649
Incl. VAT
+ €79 Shipping
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