ESP / LTD MT-1 Announced
ESP Guitars has introduced the new MT-1, the latest signature model of Mick Thomson.
Alongside the ESP version, LTD has also released its own MT-1 model based on the same concept.
Featuring a laminated White Ash top with a Mahogany back, a deeply set 3-piece maple neck, and the Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature pickup, the MT-1 is designed to deliver tight, focused tone with high playability.
While built around a straightforward single-humbucker layout, the onboard voice switching system expands its tonal versatility beyond its minimalist appearance.
Product Information
ESP MT-1
- Color: Obsidian Metallic
- MSRP: ¥836,000 (tax included)
- Release date: January 23, 2026
LTD MT-1
- Color: Obsidian Metallic
- MSRP: ¥275,000 (tax included)
- Release date: January 23, 2026
Specifications
| ESP MT-1 | LTD MT-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Body | White Ash Top / Mahogany Back | White Ash Top / Mahogany Back |
| Neck | 3pc Hard Maple (Set Neck) | 3pc Hard Maple (Set Neck) |
| Scale | 648mm (25.5″) | 648mm (25.5″) |
| Fingerboard | Phenowood | Macassar Ebony |
| Frets | Stainless Steel XJ | Stainless Steel XJ |
| Pickup | Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature | Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature |
| Bridge | Hipshot Ibby HM (Brass) | Hipshot Ibby HM (Brass) |
| Tuners | Hipshot Grip-Lock Open (1:18) | Hipshot Grip-Lock Open (1:18) |
| Nut | GraphTech Black TUSQ XL® | GraphTech Black TUSQ XL® |
Body and Neck Construction
The MT-1 is based on the HORIZON-style platform, configured with a single bridge humbucker.
Its laminated body pairs a White Ash top with a Mahogany back, balancing articulate attack with a thick low-mid response.
The 3-piece hard maple neck is set into the body and extends deeply toward the bridge pickup area, contributing to structural rigidity and a solid, unified feel.
A sculpted heel improves upper-fret access, while the 648mm (25.5″) scale length provides a modern string tension suitable for contemporary playing styles.
Fingerboard, Frets, and Hardware
The ESP MT-1 features a Phenowood fingerboard, while the LTD version uses Macassar Ebony.
Both models adopt a minimalist look with no front position markers.
Luminlay side dots provide visibility in low-light environments without compromising the clean aesthetic.
Extra-jumbo stainless steel frets offer durability and smooth bending response.
The nut is made from GraphTech Black TUSQ XL®, supporting tuning stability even under aggressive playing conditions.
Hipshot Grip-Lock™ Open locking tuners with an 18:1 gear ratio allow precise tuning adjustments.
An all-brass Hipshot Ibby HM bridge, combined with a string-through-body design, contributes to tight sustain and focused response.
Fishman Fluence Signature Pickup
At the bridge position, the MT-1 is equipped with the Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature pickup.
Controlled via a mini-toggle switch and switchable potentiometer, the system offers multiple selectable voices, covering:
- Tight, high-gain rhythm tones
- Expressive mid-gain crunch
- Clear, articulate clean sounds
Despite its single-humbucker configuration, the MT-1 provides a wide tonal range thanks to its advanced voice architecture.
Sources: ESP Official Website
What is the Mick Thomson MT-1?
The Mick Thomson MT-1 is a signature guitar released by ESP and LTD, designed in collaboration with Slipknot guitarist Mick Thomson. It features a single-humbucker layout and a Fishman Fluence signature pickup system.
What is the difference between ESP MT-1 and LTD MT-1?
Both models share the same core concept and specifications, including body construction and hardware. The main difference lies in materials such as the fingerboard, with ESP using Phenowood and LTD using Macassar Ebony.
What pickup does the MT-1 use?
The MT-1 is equipped with the Fishman Fluence Mick Thomson Signature pickup, offering multiple selectable voices for high-gain, crunch, and clean tones.
Does the MT-1 have coil splitting?
The MT-1 uses a voice-switching system rather than traditional coil splitting. The Fishman Fluence design allows multiple tonal variations within a single humbucker configuration.
When will the Mick Thomson MT-1 be released?
The MT-1 is scheduled for release on January 23, 2026.
