ESP STEF-B7 (2012–present)
Custom Shop baritone 7-string model, available with EMG 81-7 or Fishman Fluence electronics depending on the year.
Known specifications
- Release year
- 2012 (EMG) / 2016 (Fluence)
- Body
- Alder
- Scale
- 27" (baritone)
- Fretboard
- Ebony, 24 XJ
- Pickups
- 2× EMG 81-7 (2012 version) or Fluence SC (2016 version)
- Bridge
- TonePros
Historical significance
Direct base of the "Louis Vuitton" prototype with a monogram finish, one of the most discussed designs in collector communities.
- Base of the "Louis Vuitton" prototype
Tuning setup
B tuning
Baritone 7-string repertoireAnecdotes and history
The "Louis Vuitton" prototype
interviewA hand-painted finish that emulates the monogram of the French fashion house; Carpenter explained it was a gesture of playful provocation, fun and irony within a genre that often takes itself very seriously.
Variants and finishes
Black (EMG, 2012)
Original version with EMG 81-7 pickups.
Black (Fishman, 2016)
Electronics upgrade to Fishman Fluence SC, keeping the black finish.
- Pickups
- Fishman Fluence SC (formerly: EMG 81-7)
- Year introduced
- 2016
Gold
Metallic gold finish, confirmed by photograph. Exact year and context of use still to be documented.
"Louis Vuitton"
A hand-painted finish that emulates the monogram pattern of the French fashion house. A playful provocation by Carpenter himself, one of the most talked-about designs in forums and collector communities.
One-off piece, hand-painted — not a catalog order nor a standard Custom Shop item.
Rarity
High. Limited-run Custom Shop.