Choosing between these guitars basses options comes down to two distinct approaches: the ESP M-4 Black Metal leans into an angular, all-black M design, while the ESP LTD F-204 brings an extended-scale layout with active electronics. The $659.01 listed-price gap matters, but the scale length, pickup arrangement, and condition are equally important to the decision.
Quick verdict
Start with the ESP M-4 Black Metal if its pointed M-style profile and Black Metal presentation are central to what you want from an electric bass. Pick the ESP LTD F-204 if the lower listed price and its longer-scale, control-heavy specification better suit your priorities. Neither is simply a substitute for the other: one is a new single-pickup M-4, and the other is a used F-204 with a more expansive electronics layout.
Compact comparison
| Detail | ESP M-4 Black Metal | ESP LTD F-204 |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | USD 1,099.00 | USD 439.99 |
| Condition | New | Used |
| Scale length | 34 in. | 35 in. |
| Pickup and controls | Single direct-mount EMG 35CS | ESP Designed SB-4N and SB-4B humbuckers, active ABQ-3 3-band EQ |
| Construction highlights | Bolt-on slab body | 24 extra-jumbo frets |
Where each bass wins
ESP M-4 Black Metal
The M-4 Black Metal is the more natural match for players who want a standard 34-inch scale in a sharply styled M body. Its bolt-on construction, slab body, and pointed inline headstock define a direct, purpose-built visual and structural package. The all-black finish, components, and hardware reinforce the Black Metal theme rather than treating the dark look as a minor detail.
ESP LTD F-204
The F-204 stands out for players who prefer a 35-inch scale and broader onboard shaping options. Its neck and bridge humbuckers work with an active 3-band EQ, plus master volume and balance controls. That combination makes it the better fit when a two-pickup format and hands-on EQ adjustment are more important than the M-4's single-pickup layout.
Product notes
ESP M4 Black Metal Electric Bass Black Satin
Pick the ESP M-4 Black Metal when the angular M outline and fully black Black Metal presentation are a core part of the instrument you want. Its parts list includes Grover tuners, a Gotoh 201B-4 bridge, and stainless steel frets, while the bolt-on slab body anchors the M-4 design. The limitation is straightforward: its listed price is USD 1,099.00, the higher figure in this comparison. It makes the most sense for a player pursuing this specific M-4 configuration, rather than one whose priority is multiple pickup controls and an active equalizer.
ESP LTD F-204 Black Gloss Electric Bass Guitar
The ESP LTD F-204 is a strong direction for a player drawn to its 5-piece maple and jatoba neck, thin U neck contour, and roasted jatoba fingerboard. Its extended scale and active control set establish the core appeal, while the lower listed price keeps it distinct from the M-4. Its concrete limitation is condition: this is a used bass, and it is described without a case. Choose it when the F-204 neck construction and multi-control format matter more than buying the new M-4 Black Metal configuration.
Final choice by use case
Choose the ESP M-4 Black Metal for a new, 34-inch-scale bass built around the black M-style design and its listed Grover, Gotoh, and stainless-steel hardware. Choose the ESP LTD F-204 for an extended-scale bass with active two-humbucker controls, especially if its 24 extra-jumbo frets and used condition align with your needs.
