ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

Jamie Thorne Guitar
Written by Jamie Thorne

May 30, 2026

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

Core features of the ESP electric guitar

  • Body: Alder
  • Top: Quilted maple
  • Neck: Roasted maple
  • Fretboard: Ebony
  • Neck attachment: Bolt-on
  • Neck shape: Extra Thin U
  • Frets: 24 Stainless steel X-jumbo
  • Nut width: 42 mm (1.65″)
  • Scale: 648 mm (25.5″)
  • Fretboard radius: 350 mm (13.78″)
  • Pickups: Fishman Fluence Modern humbucker – ceramic (bridge); Fishman Fluence Modern humbucker – alnico (neck)
  • Controls: Volume, Tone (Push-Pull)
  • Switch: 3-Way toggle
  • Bridge: Recessed Gotoh Tune-O-Matic string-through-body design
  • Hardware finish: Black
  • Machine heads: LTD locking
  • Includes a case
  • Colour: Black Shadow Burst
  • Strings: D’Addario XL110 (.010-.046)

Images

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB Review: Quality check

Additional Information

Customer Review Summary

The ESP LTD JM-II Josh Middleton BSB is a remarkable guitar that showcases excellent craftsmanship and quality. The ergonomics of the recessed bridge make it very comfortable to play, and it excels in drop tunings, delivering tight and punchy metal tones thanks to the Fishman pickups. The neck feels fantastic, allowing for smooth playability and effortless bends, akin to playing on glass.

However, there are a few drawbacks worth noting. The factory setup, including string action and neck relief, could be improved, as it may not meet the expectations for a guitar in this price range. Additionally, the plastic nut can make playing in the first position a bit challenging. Aesthetically, while the finish is generally pleasing, the brown colour may not match the ‘tobacco brown’ seen in promotional images.

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Some users have reported minor issues with sound consistency between pickups and tuning accessibility due to the reverse headstock design. Despite these criticisms, the overall performance of the guitar is impressive, particularly for metal genres, and it stands as a strong choice for both seasoned players and those seeking a reliable backup instrument. Overall, it’s a highly recommended model that offers great value for its price.



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Jamie Thorne Guitar

With over 15 years in the UK music scene, I've worked as a session guitarist and touring tech from London to Manchester. Whether it's setting up a vintage Strat or stress-testing the latest DSP modeling amps, I break down the gear so you know exactly what you're plugging into. No fluff, just the facts from the fretboard.

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