TEST: LTD Vulture OW

 In fact, there aren't too many people these days who deserve the title of rock star, as the term has been greatly watered down in times of media and sensory overload. One of the few musicians to whom this term still applies is James Hetfield, singer, guitarist and frontman of the most successful heavy metal band of all time and probably also in the top 10 when it comes to the most successful bands of all time, Metallica. The man, who has often drawn negative attention to himself in the past with his special rhythm playing style and on the other hand with his heavy alcohol abuse and his desire to kill animals, is also a heavyweight when it comes to weighting the advertising medium for the company ESP Guitars. Decades ago, Hetfield switched from Gibson to the originally Asian company, which tailored the Gibson flagships in the form of the Flying V, Explorer and Les Paul to his body in a slightly different form. The LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW we have for testing, which is made in Korea, is also available for almost three times the price of ESP with Made In USA.

The construction of the LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW

There may be other points that I didn't recognize during my research, but if I interpret the whole thing correctly, the only difference between the Korean and USA versions is that the USA version has a continuous mahogany neck with attached body wings is used, while the Korean version uses a three-strip, glued-in neck made of maple. To what extent this point and possibly a Luthier production along with a better final inspection justify a price of 5,649 euros compared to the 1,899 euros for the Korean version, everyone ultimately has to find out for themselves. As I said, if I missed something, let me add the additions.

It's not really difficult to see that the LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW has its origins in the Flying V, although some details differ significantly from the original. In addition to the asymmetrical body, what is particularly noticeable is the headstock with six-in-a-row tuners, which is actually subtly reminiscent of a vulture's beak, which is normally not used on a Flying V for aesthetic reasons. But here too, no judgment on my part, it's all a matter of taste.

It is probably clear to everyone that the dimensions of the instrument are quite large. Nevertheless, the instrument is comparatively light at just under 3.5 kg. I would have expected more on the scales. The color of the instrument, which was dubbed “Olympic White”, is not pure white, nor is it an eggshell color, but is more reminiscent of the fur of a polar bear. Whether you want to stand on stage with a white instrument is of course up to you, but this color offers the incredible advantage that it automatically takes on any color of a colored spotlight.

To increase playing comfort, the upper part of the body has been discreetly shaped along its entire length. What surprises me personally is the placement of the strap pin on the neck. As is well known, you have to be careful with the Flying V that you don't end up being top-heavy, but in my opinion the belt pin is not necessarily in the optimal place. Depending on which belt you use, you may have the problem of getting your palm on the belt when playing at high levels, which somewhat reduces the comfort of playing at high levels.

However, the output socket on the upper horn of the body is very well done, which prevents you from having to endure the infamous loop formation at an output socket on the lower horn of the body, which is known to occur when you use the strap pin as a cable lock. As befits a full-time rhythm guitarist, no vibrator system was installed on the instrument. Instead, the traditional stop-tailpiece tailpiece is used in combination with a fixed bridge, which, together with the six locking mechanisms on the headstock, does a tuning-stable and proper job.

All of the instrument's hardware, plus the glued-on company logo and the black plastic frames for the pickups, were all kept in a tasteful black, creating a nice contrast to the white on the body as well as on the back of the neck and headstock has been used. The very dark ebony used as the fingerboard also supports the black and white coloring of the instrument.

Interestingly, the scale length of the LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW is 629 mm and is therefore in the range of a slightly extended short scale length. The short scale length was probably used, as Gibson also uses the short scale length on the models mentioned above, although slightly shortened to approx. 623 mm. 22 jumbo frets called XJ are used as frets. The shaping of the neck is called “Thin U” by the manufacturer, which reproduces the grip feeling quite well. However, it could also be a somewhat expansive D, which also reflects the gripping feeling well.

As in the area of guitar choice, Metallica, along with Zakk Wylde, are considered THE flagship in the area of EMG pickups, which both guitarists have been playing on their signature instruments for over 30 years. For this purpose, Hetfield uses a “Het Set” designed for him, which, in contrast to de z. B. the very popular Type 81, which work with bar magnets, are equipped with stay magnets, which should ensure a more defined low end. The battery required for active operation is housed in a cutout on the back of the instrument, which is covered with a screwed plastic cover. Personally, I also prefer the screw solution over a clip solution, as it cannot accidentally pop open even during wild stage use and, with an operating life of almost 2,000 hours, it is only opened every few years anyway. The control options of the two pickups are traditionally spartan and consist only of two master volume controls and a three-way switch. Anyone who expected a Mastertone control here has never listened to Metallica's music.

The LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW in practice

I guess it's obvious to everyone that you can't really play LTD sitting down. I am well aware that it is now "normal" for musicians in YouTube videos to hold their Flying between their legs, giving the image of a typical guitar student on his classical guitar in his first year of learning, but this instrument is because of its body shape and its dimensions were built for playing while standing.

However, there is a small problem here regarding the belt routing. If you put the strap on the two pins, the leverage cannot prevent the guitar from bending slightly forward from above. Not really a problem, but guitarists usually prefer it the other way around, i.e. the instrument leans slightly towards the body in order to be able to see the fingerboard better. This problem could be solved by running the strap over the front of the body, but this looks terrible and may even be annoying during play. Ultimately, everyone has to find out for themselves whether this leverage is hindering them in any way or whether it is so small that it doesn't matter at all. So you can't really call this a defect, I just think it should be mentioned.

Otherwise, the description “You get what you see” really applies to the last detail with the LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW. Anyone who works with high gain or plays in a Metallica tribute band will be able to identify strongly with this instrument. Processing, sustain and tone shaping are very good and will satisfy the target group. Due to the combination of the components used and the EMG pickups, the sound remains comparatively transparent even at the highest high gain and allows palm muting playing styles in particular to appear in the best light. There is also the famous EMG Clean Sound, which has been polarizing for decades, but prevails very well and produces a very special, clear tone, especially if you play the instrument directly into the desk without speaker simulation.

Conclusion

With the LTD James Hetfield Vulture OW, the Asian manufacturer offers an instrument that will be welcomed with open arms by Metallica fans. The instrument, uncompromisingly designed for high gain operation, meets all the requirements to be able to tonally offer everything rock and metal classics in a tribute or cover band and still offers a comparatively transparent sound even at the highest high gain setting.

„Metal Will Never Die“

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LTD Guitars, a subsidiary of the renowned guitar manufacturer ESP, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1970s. The company's origins can be traced to the vision and passion of a single individual, Takeshi Kishimoto, who sought to bring high-quality, affordable guitars to the masses.

## The Early Days

In 1975, Takeshi Kishimoto founded the Electric Sound Products (ESP) company in Tokyo, Japan. Initially, ESP focused on manufacturing guitar parts and accessories, catering to the growing demand for customization and modification among guitar enthusiasts. However, Kishimoto had bigger dreams – he wanted to create his own line of guitars that would combine exceptional craftsmanship with affordability.

The first ESP guitars hit the market in 1976, and they quickly gained a reputation for their quality and attention to detail. These early models were handcrafted in Japan, and their unique designs and innovative features appealed to both professional musicians and aspiring guitarists alike.

## The Birth of LTD Guitars

As ESP's popularity grew, so did the demand for their guitars. However, producing high-end instruments in Japan became increasingly expensive, and Kishimoto recognized the need to explore alternative manufacturing options to keep prices accessible. This realization led to the creation of LTD Guitars in 1996.

LTD, which stands for "Limited," was established as a subsidiary of ESP, with the primary goal of producing affordable, high-quality guitars in overseas factories. By outsourcing production to facilities in countries like Indonesia and Korea, LTD was able to offer guitars at significantly lower prices than their Japanese-made counterparts, without compromising on quality or design.

## Expansion and Innovation

LTD Guitars quickly gained a loyal following among guitarists seeking exceptional value for their money. The company's commitment to quality control and attention to detail ensured that each LTD guitar met the highest standards, despite being produced in overseas factories.

Over the years, LTD has expanded its product line to include a wide range of guitar models, catering to various musical genres and playing styles. From sleek and modern designs to classic and vintage-inspired models, LTD has something to offer for every guitarist.

One of the company's most significant innovations was the introduction of the LTD Signature Series, which featured guitars designed in collaboration with renowned artists and musicians. These signature models allowed players to experience the same instruments used by their idols, further solidifying LTD's reputation as a brand that truly understands the needs and preferences of guitarists.

## Global Reach and Continued Success

Today, LTD Guitars has established itself as a global brand, with a presence in numerous countries around the world. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability has earned it a loyal following among guitarists of all skill levels and musical backgrounds.

Despite the challenges posed by an ever-evolving music industry, LTD has remained steadfast in its pursuit of excellence. The company continues to push the boundaries of guitar design and manufacturing, constantly seeking new ways to improve its products and meet the changing needs of musicians.

As LTD Guitars celebrates its legacy and looks towards the future, one thing remains certain: the brand's unwavering dedication to providing high-quality, affordable guitars will continue to inspire and empower generations of musicians to come.

The success of LTD Guitars can be largely attributed to the visionary leadership and unwavering determination of its founder, Takeshi Kishimoto. From the very beginning, Kishimoto had a clear vision for creating high-quality guitars that would be accessible to musicians of all backgrounds and skill levels.

Kishimoto's passion for music and his understanding of the guitar industry's dynamics allowed him to identify a gap in the market – the need for affordable instruments that did not compromise on quality or playability. This insight led him to establish ESP and, later, LTD Guitars, which revolutionized the way guitars were manufactured and distributed.

Throughout his career, Kishimoto remained deeply involved in the design and production processes, ensuring that every LTD guitar met his exacting standards. His attention to detail and commitment to innovation were evident in the company's constant pursuit of new materials, manufacturing techniques, and design elements.

Kishimoto's leadership extended beyond the realm of product development. He fostered a corporate culture that valued creativity, collaboration, and a deep respect for the art of guitar-making. This philosophy attracted talented luthiers, designers, and musicians who shared his passion for creating exceptional instruments.

## Embracing Technological Advancements

As the guitar industry evolved, LTD Guitars remained at the forefront of technological advancements, embracing new materials and manufacturing processes that enhanced the quality and playability of their instruments.

One notable example is the company's adoption of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies. These tools allowed LTD to streamline the design and production processes, ensuring greater precision and consistency in the manufacturing of their guitars.

Additionally, LTD has been a pioneer in the use of innovative materials, such as lightweight and durable woods, as well as advanced hardware components. These materials not only improved the overall quality and performance of their guitars but also contributed to their distinctive aesthetic appeal.

## Collaborations and Artist Endorsements

LTD Guitars has long recognized the importance of collaborating with renowned artists and musicians, as these partnerships not only lend credibility to the brand but also provide valuable insights into the needs and preferences of professional players.

The LTD Signature Series, which features guitars designed in collaboration with legendary artists, has been a resounding success. These signature models have allowed guitarists to experience the same instruments used by their musical heroes, fostering a deeper connection between the brand and its customers.

Over the years, LTD has partnered with a diverse range of artists, spanning various genres and musical styles. From metal icons like Kirk Hammett of Metallica to jazz virtuosos like Al Di Meola, these collaborations have not only resulted in exceptional guitar designs but have also helped to solidify LTD's reputation as a brand that truly understands the needs of musicians.

## Commitment to Sustainability and Social Responsibility

In recent years, LTD Guitars has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, recognizing the importance of minimizing its environmental impact and supporting the communities in which it operates.

The company has implemented various initiatives to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices throughout its manufacturing processes. This includes the use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient production methods, and responsible waste management strategies.

Additionally, LTD Guitars has partnered with various organizations and initiatives aimed at supporting music education and providing opportunities for aspiring musicians. These efforts not only contribute to the development of the next generation of guitarists but also foster a sense of community and shared passion for music.

As LTD Guitars continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility will undoubtedly remain a core part of its corporate philosophy, ensuring that the brand remains a responsible and ethical player in the guitar industry.