TEST: LTD MH 1001

 Whether Steve Vai is the inventor of the Powerstrat may be doubted by some, but the fact is that his use of a chisel and soldering iron, which later led to an intensive collaboration with Ibanez, gave rise to a special guitar species almost 40 years ago, which can be seen as a kind of "Strat on steroids" and which still represents a very successful subgroup in the electric guitar sector. In addition to the classic big names of the eighties, such as Jackson, Charvel, Kramer, Schecter, Ibanez and many more, the Japanese company ESP has also left its scent mark of its time and offers with its subsidiary LTD the LTD MH 1001 a classic Powerstrat feil.

ESP or LTD?

Whether it's Fender and Squier, Gibson and Epiphone, or as in this case ESP and LTD, the principle is always the same. A potent and respected corporation, usually located in a high-wage country, develops / buys a subsidiary that manufactures in a low-wage country, but should get as much marketing from the big name. The low-cost brand must be good, but it must not have the same features as the big name, as in the case of VW/Seat, for example, otherwise the extra price would not be justified. The art of marketing therefore always lies in getting a razor-thin line between the two brands, but still presenting a direct link to the outside world.

This is sometimes quite difficult, especially since ESP and LTD do not even manage a clean separation in the product designation. Sometimes it's "ESP/LTD", sometimes "LTD by ESP", sometimes "LTD, designed by ESP". Of course, the sometimes spasmodic mentioning of the parent company is quite understandable from a marketing point of view, if, yes, if the LTD instruments would have needed this, whereby we have arrived at the actual sticking point. The average manufacturing quality of LTD instruments has increased so much in recent times that ESP has to pull out all the stops with "Made In Japan" in order to top it with "Made In Indonesia" in terms of quality and features. But everything in order.

The construction of the LTD MH 1001

Strictly speaking, the LTD MH 1001 is a second generation Powerstrat. Many classic Powerstrat components have remained, but a few have been taken away or designed differently. Let's start with the remaining components. First of all, of course, the most ingenious body shape ever (design a mainstream body shape that has nothing of a Strat ...) is present, which is oriented in terms of basic shape and shaping to the great classic. However, only in the design, because already here LTD sets in terms of construction one on top. The basic concept is a continuous maple neck, which is filled with side parts of mahogany and for optical reasons is covered with a thin curly maple top. The same has the "See Thru Black" color scheme and blends very nicely with the otherwise opaque black lacquered areas.

The instrument offers the long scale length of 648 mm, has 24 jumbo frets and features a bound ebony fingerboard. The radius of the neck is specified as 350 mm, while the nut width is 42 mm. As fingerboard markings, there are small dot inlays on the side of the fingerboard, as well as in the top view of the fingerboard. In general, some features were built in, which lead the classic Powerstrat swashbuckler over into a somewhat "nobler" variant. Besides the maple top, the instrument is completely covered with up to seven-ply binding, which is much less "plasikeresque" than some of its competitors. In fairness, however, it must be mentioned that the LTD MH 1001 with a retail price of 975 euros is in a higher price segment than what one is generally used to from Indonesian manufacturing.

In return, however, you get a lot, such as locking mechanics from in-house production and a set of 2 active EMG pickups (81 bridge / 85 neck), which come from the BBC series and each have a brushed chrome cap. Both pickups are switched via a three-way switch, single coil options are not offered. Les Paul rules! By the way, all the hardware is black nickel plated and matches the pickup caps very well, also very nice. But wasn't there something else that every Powersrat must have? Right, a vibrato system! Same one looks for the LTD MH 1001 in vain, instead the Indonesians with a Tonepros Locking TOM bridge and strings, which are led through the body in combination with the continuous neck, set on a maximum sustain development. Not entirely new, the concept, but always a refreshing variation to the umpteenth Floyd Rose equipment.

The LTD MH 1001 in practice

Once again, the very simple principle of "You Get What You See" applies. Hardly anyone would have expected a twang-heavy country or a mellow 335 jazz sound from the appearance and specs of this instrument. Even if the shape of a Powerstrat still seems very moderate to an outsider, this instrument is designed for the harder pace, but less in the "Whammy - As - Whammy - Can" attitude, but more in the classic LP with strong finger vibrato style. Nothing against the Steva Vai "How To Use A Whammy Bar In Electric Guitar" playing technique, but with this instrument there is nothing to hide behind.

The sound files were created with an Engl Savage II / Marshall Cabinet 412 / Celestion G75T / 2x SM57 combination, which immediately brought to light the strengths and, if you want to call it that, the weaknesses of the instrument. Like almost all instruments equipped with the very popular EMG 85 / 81 combination, ultra-clean sounds are not the prime example of the instrument, at least when using a classic amp and not playing directly into the console with a compressor. Not because the pickups would not sound good in the clean range, but rather due to the fact that the output level of the pickups at full stop especially tube preamps like to drive into saturation. Here the experienced EMG user helps himself with the old trick of taking the volume control back a bit, with the effect that the sound does not change, but the preamp of the amp remains clean.

Still, the clean sound seems satisfying at best, lacking some character, which is also due to the comparatively high compression of the pickups. This changes strikingly with increasing distortion levels. This is where the EMG's are at home and once again manage to generate a transparent yet dynamic sound with their incredibly linear frequency response even at the highest high gain. Even light crunch has a very powerful effect due to the frequency spectrum, so you can generally always use a tad less gain than with passive pickups without losing steam.

At the latest in the lead department, the instrument has reached its target audience and convinces with a strong rhythm and solo tone. The sustain is really convincing due to the continuous neck and manages to make the instrument sound more expensive than it ultimately is. The feel is good, the response as well. Nobody will expect a standard Tele to convince a heavy rocker of its sound characteristics, likewise you will look for the pop or country touch in vain with the LTD MH 1001.

For the classic cover band with a latent rock bias, a highly recommended instrument, although the pickup choice always puts you on the verge of hard rock territory. No matter how much you rein in the amp or even the pedal choice, the basic sound of the EMG's is always present and will once again put fans of these pickups in rapture. The appearance, on the other hand, does not polarize and will not scare anyone in the audience, from there the LTD MH 1001 is universally usable in terms of external presentation.

Conclusion

With the LTD MH 1001, the Japanese manufacturer with Indonesian manufacturing offers a real bargain in its portfolio. The instrument, which is offered at under €1,000 retail price, offers a very good vibration behavior combined with high-quality components, such as active EMG pickups and a Tonepro bridge.

If you're looking for a Les Paul feel with a powerstrat look for official heavy rock, you should definitely give this instrument a try.

Additional informations:

LTD Guitars is a renowned guitar manufacturing company known for producing high-quality electric guitars and basses. With a history spanning several decades, LTD Guitars has built a solid reputation for its craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication to meeting the needs of musicians across various genres. This comprehensive report delves into the company's background, product range, manufacturing processes, marketing strategies, and its impact on the music industry.

Background LTD Guitars was established in the 1990s as a subsidiary of the renowned guitar brand, ESP Guitars. The aim of creating LTD Guitars was to cater to the needs of musicians who sought high-quality instruments at more affordable price points. Over the years, LTD Guitars has evolved into an independent brand while still benefiting from ESP's expertise, craftsmanship, and design philosophy.

Product Range LTD Guitars offers a diverse range of electric guitars and basses that cater to musicians of all skill levels and musical preferences. The company's product lineup includes signature models, traditional shapes, modern designs, and extended-range instruments. LTD Guitars is particularly known for its expertise in crafting guitars suited for heavy metal and hard rock genres, with many notable artists endorsing and using their instruments.

Manufacturing Processes LTD Guitars places a strong emphasis on maintaining high manufacturing standards to ensure the delivery of instruments with exceptional playability, tone, and durability. The company employs a combination of traditional craftsmanship techniques and modern manufacturing technologies to create its guitars. Highly skilled luthiers and technicians meticulously assemble each instrument, paying attention to every detail, from the selection of tonewoods to the application of finishes and the installation of high-quality hardware and electronics.

Quality Control To maintain consistency and ensure the highest level of quality, LTD Guitars has implemented rigorous quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process. Each instrument undergoes thorough inspections, including testing of electronics, playability assessments, and tonal evaluations. This stringent quality control process guarantees that every LTD guitar that reaches customers meets the company's exacting standards.

Innovation and Technology LTD Guitars constantly strives to incorporate new technologies and innovations into its instruments. The company collaborates with renowned pickup manufacturers, such as EMG and Seymour Duncan, to offer a wide range of tonal options. Additionally, LTD Guitars has introduced innovative features like multi-scale (or fanned-fret) necks, ergonomic body contours, and extended-range instruments to cater to the evolving needs of modern musicians.
Marketing Strategies LTD Guitars employs a multifaceted marketing approach to promote its products. The company engages in various marketing activities, including artist endorsements, participation in industry trade shows and exhibitions, strategic partnerships, and online marketing campaigns. By aligning with influential musicians and showcasing their instruments in high-profile events, LTD Guitars enhances brand visibility and credibility among its target audience.
Impact on the Music Industry LTD Guitars has had a significant impact on the music industry by providing musicians with affordable yet high-quality instruments. The brand has successfully bridged the gap between beginner-level instruments and professional-grade guitars, making exceptional playability and craftsmanship accessible to a wider range of musicians. Many aspiring artists, as well as established professionals, have found their voice and inspiration through the instruments crafted by LTD Guitars.

Conclusion In conclusion, LTD Guitars has firmly established itself as a leading guitar manufacturer, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability. With a wide range of instruments catering to various musical genres and skill levels, the company continues to make a significant impact on the music industry. Through its meticulous manufacturing processes, cutting-edge technologies, and effective marketing strategies, LTD Guitars has gained the trust and admiration of musicians worldwide, solidifying its position as a go-to brand for electric guitars and basses.