ESP LTD B-55 or B-5E?

[entertoexit]

Well i'be narrowed my search for my first 5 string down to those 2 basses. They are pretty close in price, the B-5e is more expensive because it features mahogony body and ebony top. Is that worth paying the extra for alone? Mahogony vs. "Basswood".

Just seeing if anyone plays either of these, but I'm pretty sure the B-5e will win because its higher quality.

 

[krafty]

The B5 is going to be more comfortable to play and has better electronics. I have a B55 and have owned a B104 with the more contoured body. The contours do help especially when sitting down (unless you're used to a single-cut type of body).

In addition, you get a 3-band EQ on the B5 while the B55 gives you a simple tone control and 2 pickup volumes. If you want a neck-through bass, the B4/B5 are pretty nice for the money.

My B55 if a nice, basic 5-string, but it just lacks some of the quality that some of the other LTDs have.

 

[5string5fingers]

B5 for sure. While I own a B55 and it's a decent bass, the B5 is a much better upgrade. Its not just mahogany vs basswood, it's better electronics, build quality, tonal variations, and hardware.

 

[entertoexit]

B5 for sure. While I own a B55 and it's a decent bass, the B5 is a much better upgrade. Its not just mahogany vs basswood, it's better electronics, build quality, tonal variations, and hardware.

I saw your other thread about Modding your b55. I really dig that silver finish! I got my b-50 at a Goodwill auction for $70 about a year ago and had it setup and restrung, paying less alltogether than it costs new and now its pretty epic. I decided to get the b-5e, and should be ordering one pretty soon here... just want the upgrades and the fifth string, plus I love its look. I'll also enjoy the normal sized frets more. The b-50 and I'm assuming the 55 have those tall jumbo frets that put alot of buzz on low action.

 

[onlydead]

B5-E is more better...wood,quality,electronics,sound...B-55 is a very chep/cheap sounding bass...