A discontinued Japanese-made ESP Standard Series 5-string bass from 2009, offering neck-through construction, premium tonewoods, and versatile active/passive electronics. A solid professional instrument and a rare model on the used market.
Professional 5-string bass from the discontinued Standard Series by ESP. It represents a high-quality Japanese-made bass from the era before the current E‑II designation.
Neck-through construction provides excellent sustain, stable low-B response, and smooth access to upper frets. The ebony fingerboard adds clarity and articulation, while the alder body delivers balanced midrange and controlled low end.
The Cinnamon 3-band preamp offers extensive tonal shaping. The push-pull volume control allows switching to passive mode for a more traditional response. The electronics provide strong output, dynamic response, and flexible EQ control suitable for modern rock, metal, fusion, and studio applications.
Professional-grade Japanese hardware ensures tuning stability and long-term reliability.
This ESP BTL-STD 5 is a predecessor to the current ESP E‑II BTL‑5 model. Both share the same conceptual lineage as premium 5-string basses from ESP Japan, with versatile active electronics and modern playability.
The current ESP E‑II BTL-5 continues this lineage with the following notable differences:
Despite these differences, both basses are aimed at professional players. This BTL-STD 5 remains highly regarded for its build quality, tonal range, and character, while the E‑II BTL‑5 reflects ESP’s current production standards and hardware choices.
Overall condition is Very Good.
