Designed to meet the crushing low-end needs of Soulfly and Calavera Conspiracy bassist Mike Leon, the ESP LTD Mike Leon B-4 electric bass guitar is a powerhouse instrument built for extreme metal performance. Drawing inspiration from Leon's trusted LTD B Series basses and his ESP Custom Shop model, this signature model delivers a bold, road-ready design with its striking sandblasted swamp ash body, extra-thin 5-piece wenge and purpleheart neck and high-output Nordstrand Big Split pickups. From bone-rattling lows to articulate midrange punch, the Mike Leon B-4 is crafted to cut through even the heaviest mixes. Whether onstage or in the studio, this bass is a high-performance weapon for serious players who demand reliability, playability and monstrous tone.
Swamp Ash Body With Striking Black Blast Finish
The Mike Leon B-4 features a swamp ash body that delivers a balanced tonal foundation with deep lows, punchy mids and clear highs—perfect for aggressive playing styles. The sandblasted Black Blast finish gives the bass a raw, textured look while highlighting the natural grain of the wood. This rugged aesthetic pairs with a sleek black satin headstock for a cohesive, battle-ready design. Beyond its stunning looks, swamp ash enhances resonance and sustain, making it a go-to tonewood for metal and hard rock. Combined with an ergonomic body shape and deep cutaways, this Signature Series ESP offers both aggressive looks and functional comfort for high-energy performances.
Extra-Thin 5-Piece Wenge/Purpleheart Neck Built for Speed
Crafted for high-speed playing and effortless access to the upper frets, this special-edition B-4's five-piece wenge and purpleheart neck delivers exceptional strength and stability. Its extra-thin U-shaped profile allows for fast, effortless movement across the fretboard, while the smooth open-pore satin finish offers a natural feel that resists stickiness even during intense performances. The 35" scale length ensures tight string tension, ideal for maintaining clarity in lower tunings. The Macassar ebony fretboard enhances attack and articulation, with offset mother-of-pearl inlays adding a subtle visual touch. Featuring 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets, this bass is designed for high-performance players who demand fluid playability and maximum durability.
Nordstrand Big Split Pickups With Active EQ
Equipped with a powerful set of Nordstrand Big Split pickups, the Mike Leon B-4 delivers massive yet articulate tone with a perfect blend of warmth and punch. These split-coil pickups provide the growl of a traditional P-style bass with the clarity and definition needed for modern metal. The active ABQ-3 three-band EQ offers precise control over your sound, allowing you to shape deep lows, cutting mids and crisp highs with ease. A blend knob lets you mix the pickups to taste, ensuring a versatile tonal palette for everything from thunderous chugs to melodic bass runs. Whether in the studio or on stage, this setup guarantees crushing tone with pristine definition.
Gotoh Hardware for Rock-Solid Stability
Designed to handle the rigors of relentless touring, the Mike Leon B-4 is loaded with top-tier hardware for maximum stability. The Gotoh 404BO-4 bridge provides superior string isolation, sustain and precise intonation, while Gotoh tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, even under heavy playing. A six-bolt neck construction enhances the connection between the neck and body, maximizing resonance and durability. Metal dome knobs offer a sleek aesthetic with a durable grip for quick adjustments. Every component of this bass is built to endure the intensity of metal performances, making it a dependable choice for professionals who demand consistent performance night after night.
Designed for Metal Bassists Who Demand Precision
The ESP LTD Mike Leon B-4 electric bass guitar is crafted for high-performance players seeking tonal precision and rugged reliability. Its textured finish, advanced electronics and premium hardware make it an ideal choice for bassists who need a bass that can stand up to the demands of heavy playing and hard touring. Whether you're on the road or recording brutal grooves, the combination of muscular yet articulate pickups, premium tonewoods and durable construction ensures this bass delivers uncompromising sound and performance. Get ready to unlock powerful low-end as you take your playing to all-new heights with the Mike Leon B-4 bass.