Alan Ashby Signature Guitars
Alan Ashby, rhythm guitarist for the American metalcore band Of Mice & Men, is well-known for his aggressive playing style and meticulous attention to tone. He is the powerhouse behind the heavy rhythm sections, contributing to the band’s signature sound.
It’s his unique sound and style that paved the way for the collaboration with ESP to create two signature guitars: the ESP LTD AA-600 in 2016 and the ESP LTD AA-1 in 2022.
Alan Ashby Signature Guitars
Alan and ESP: The Beginning of a Sonic Alliance
The alliance between Alan Ashby and ESP is based on a mutual passion for quality and a relentless pursuit of the ultimate sound. It’s the fusion of Alan’s metalcore wisdom and ESP’s renowned craftsmanship that spawned the creation of guitars capable of delivering intense performances, catering to the specific needs of metalcore musicians and fans alike. It’s not just about the specifications and the hardware; it’s about creating a tool that translates Alan’s musical vision into sonic reality, allowing the raw energy and emotion of the music to flow uninhibitedly.
ESP LTD AA-600 (2016)
The ESP LTD AA-600, introduced in 2016, was the first fruit of this collaboration. It was crafted with precision to embody Alan’s desire for a sleek design, robust build, and, most importantly, a versatile and powerful sound. The attention to detail and the meticulous selection of materials and components ensured that the AA-600 would stand up to the rigorous demands of metalcore music. Alan was deeply involved in every step of the design and production process, ensuring the AA-600 was an accurate representation of his musical essence and a reliable companion on the stage.
ESP LTD AA-600: The Sound Sculptor
The sound of the AA-600 is characterized by its clarity, punch, and versatility, essential for the dynamic and aggressive nature of metalcore. It had to be able to produce the heavy and aggressive tones, but also maintain the capability for clean and melodic passages. Alan worked closely with ESP to fine-tune the electronics and choose the right pickups, ensuring the guitar could handle the sonic diversity and intensity of his musical repertoire. It’s this versatility that makes the AA-600 a favorite among metalcore guitarists, offering them a wide sonic palette to sculpt their sound.
ESP LTD AA-600: A Design Statement
Visual aesthetics were a crucial element in the creation of the AA-600. Alan wanted a guitar that would visually resonate with the energy and ethos of metalcore. The guitar’s design, from its shape to its color scheme, was chosen to make a bold statement and to reflect Alan’s personality and artistic vision. It’s a guitar designed to capture the attention and to visually complement the sonic assault characteristic of Alan’s music.
Table: ESP LTD AA-600
This guitar, the ESP LTD AA-600, with its individual configurations and premium build materials, seems to be a meticulous creation tailored for musicians who seek both quality and uniqueness in their instruments.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| General | |
| Brand | ESP LTD |
| Year | 2016 |
| Configuration | H |
| Strings | 6 |
| Made in | Indonesia |
| Series | Signature |
| Colors | Black |
| Left-Handed Version | No |
| Body | |
| Type | Solid Body |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Bridge | Tonepros Locking TOM w/ String Thru |
| Neck | |
| Neck Joint | Neck-Through |
| Tuners | LTD Locking |
| Fretboard | Macassar Ebony |
| Neck Material | 3pc Maple |
| Decoration | – |
| Scale Size | 24.75″ |
| Shape | Thin U |
| Thickness | 1st Fret: 0.787” (20mm) – 12th Fret: 0.866” (22mm) |
| Frets | 24 XL Jumbo |
| Fretboard Radius | 13.78″ |
| Nut | Plastic |
| Nut Width | 42mm (1.654”) |
| Electronics | |
| Switch | 0 Way |
| Knobs | Dome |
| Volume Controls | 1 |
| Tone Controls | 0 |
| Bridge Pickup | EMG 81 (Humbucker / Active) |
ESP LTD AA-1 (2022)
Fast forward to 2022, Alan and ESP decided to take their collaboration to the next level with the introduction of the ESP LTD AA-1. This model reflects the evolution of Alan’s musical journey and his continuous pursuit of sonic perfection. The AA-1 is a manifestation of the lessons learned and the experiences gained since the release of the AA-600. It represents Alan’s refined musical tastes and his deeper understanding of what he needs from a guitar to fully express his artistic vision.
ESP LTD AA-1: The Sonic Innovator
The sound of the AA-1 is a testament to Alan’s growing sophistication in tone shaping and his desire for a more nuanced and diverse sound. It retains the power and clarity of the AA-600 but introduces new sonic possibilities, allowing for a broader range of expression. Alan’s input was instrumental in refining the sound of the AA-1, ensuring it would be a true extension of his musical mind and a versatile tool for metalcore musicians.
ESP LTD AA-1: Elevating the Design
The design of the AA-1 is a reflection of Alan’s evolving aesthetic sensibilities and his aspiration for a more refined visual impact. Every aspect of the guitar’s design was reimagined to elevate the visual experience and to create a harmonious balance with the enhanced sonic capabilities. The AA-1 is not just a musical instrument; it’s a piece of art that represents Alan’s growth as an artist and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of metalcore music.
Table: ESP LTD AA-1
This ESP LTD AA-1 specification suggests a meticulous approach to design and functionality, ensuring premium quality and reliability for the musicians. The unique configurations and the choice of materials denote a focus on providing a distinctive experience for the guitarist.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| General | |
| Brand | ESP LTD |
| Year | 2022 |
| Configuration | H |
| Strings | 6 |
| Made in | Indonesia |
| Series | Signature |
| Colors | Black |
| Left-Handed Version | No |
| Body | |
| Type | Solid Body |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Bridge | Tonepros Locking TOM w/ String Thru |
| Neck | |
| Neck Joint | Neck-Through |
| Tuners | LTD Locking |
| Fretboard | Macassar Ebony |
| Neck Material | 3Pc Mahogany |
| Decoration | – |
| Scale Size | 24.75″ |
| Shape | Thin U |
| Thickness | 1st Fret: 0.787” (20mm) – 12th Fret: 0.866” (22mm) |
| Frets | 24 XL Jumbo Gold |
| Fretboard Radius | 13.78″ |
| Nut | Plastic |
| Nut Width | 42mm (1.654”) |
| Electronics | |
| Switch | 0 Way |
| Knobs | Dome |
| Volume Controls | 1 |
| Tone Controls | 0 |
| Bridge Pickup | EMG 81 (Humbucker / Active) |
Beyond the Guitars: A Journey of Musical Exploration
Alan Ashby’s signature guitars are more than just instruments; they are companions in his musical journey, embodiments of his artistic evolution, and catalysts for musical innovation in the metalcore genre. The collaboration with ESP is not just about creating guitars; it’s about exploring the limitless possibilities of music and sound, about challenging the status quo and inspiring others to do the same.
The Legacy Continues: Inspiring the Next Generation
The ESP LTD AA-600 and the AA-1 are continuing to inspire a new generation of metalcore musicians, encouraging them to explore their musical identities and to express their artistic truths. They stand as symbols of innovation and commitment to quality, carrying the legacy of Alan Ashby and contributing to the ongoing evolution of the metalcore genre. These guitars are not just tools; they are invitations to experience the world of music through the eyes of a pioneering artist and to become a part of the ever-growing community of metalcore enthusiasts.
Concluding Thoughts: A Symphony of Collaboration and Innovation
In conclusion, the Alan Ashby signature guitars are a celebration of musical passion, artistic innovation, and relentless pursuit of perfection. They are a reminder of the transformative power of music and the endless possibilities that arise when artists and craftsmen join forces. Whether you are a seasoned musician, an aspiring guitarist, or a lover of metalcore music, the journey of Alan Ashby and his signature guitars invites you to delve deeper into the realm of musical expression and to discover your unique sonic voice.
