The Fake ESP Thread
The Fake ESP Thread
Pushead and I are here to help verify ESP and LTD guitars. If you have, or are looking to buy a guitar that you're unsure of, post pictures and questions in this thread. Please post clear pictures of the front and back of the headstock, the fretboard, and the front and back of the body. Preferably before you buy anything.
Anyone else is free to offer suggestions on authenticity. If you answer a post, please tell us why you think it's real or fake.
From the photos (which aren't great), the logos and details like the volute look good to me. The serial number and circle logo point to the guitar being built in the custom shop in 2007. I'm not super familiar with the Alexi models, so I'm not sure what's supposed to be there in terms of the electronics, but it may have been custom ordered. I suspect the guitar is legit. If not, it's an expensive case for a fake guitar.
Hi, I'm looking at buying a Ltd Explorer used locally, however I can't find an exact match for this model. It looks very much to me like an 2008 FX260, but they didn't make those with the coiled inlays so far as I can see. I queried with the seller whether the fret markers were decals, but he is adamant that they are actual inlays. Can anyone shed any light on this?
Hi Doug. The EX looks to be legit. It's a 2008 model. The seller is either drinking his bathwater or the least perceptive person on the internet. Those are obviously decals, you can see the dots through the stickers and he put the 24th fret decals on the 22nd fret just because he thinks "they look cool."
OK. These things are addictive. Looking to get my 6th ESP/LTD in less than 12 months! I need a touring guitar because I don't want to take a shiny new M-II Custom or 1980s 48th St Custom Shop guitar on the road. This 2009 Horizon looks legit to me, if not fairly well used (i.e. good for touring). My only concern is there's nothing on the back of the headstock except the serial - is that right for 2009? Thanks once again for your invaluable assistance...
Thanks so much for the thread!
Looking at this ESP Alexi Laiho custom shop, supposedly signed by Alexi himself (???) Seller wants about $2200 USD. I haven't seen a black with white pinstripe before so not sure whether to worry or get excited.
Edit: Also noticing lack of (boost?) switch on lower fin, not sure if that is normal
Signature aside, would love to know if this is legit! Cheers