ESP Guitars has officially launched the latest evolution in their collaboration with Gojira frontman Joe Duplantier. The ESP LTD JD-I Signature, finished in a striking Silver Sunburst, is a masterclass in “less is more” engineering, designed specifically for the rigorous demands of modern technical metal.
Priced at $1799/£2199, the JD-I is not just a signature model; it is a road-ready workhorse that strips away the fluff to focus on raw power, tuning stability, and the percussive clarity that defines the “Gojira sound.”
Built for the Stage: Form Meets Function
The JD-I immediately commands attention with its Silver Sunburst finish and bold block inlays, but its beauty is far from skin-deep. Built with a mahogany body for deep resonance, the guitar features a bolt-on three-piece roasted maple neck. This construction provides the “snap” and articulation required for complex rhythmic patterns and high-gain palm muting.
The Power of One: DiMarzio JD Fortitude
At the heart of this riff machine lies a single DiMarzio JD Fortitude bridge humbucker. Eschewing complex switching, the JD-I utilizes a solitary volume control. This direct-to-pickup signal path ensures that every nuance of the player’s picking attack is preserved, delivering a tone that is open, immediate, and punchy.
Bulletproof Hardware
Recognizing the physical intensity of Gojira’s live performances, ESP has equipped the JD-I with top-tier hardware:
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Hipshot Tone-A-Matic Bridge: Provides a rock-solid anchor for heavy down-tuning and aggressive playing.
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LTD Locking Tuners: Ensures tuning remains stable under the duress of touring and makes string changes lightning-fast.
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Stainless Steel Frets: The 22 extra-jumbo frets are made of stainless steel, offering a friction-free surface for bends and extreme durability against wear.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Body Wood | Mahogany |
| Neck | 3-Piece Roasted Maple (Thin U Profile) |
| Fingerboard | Macassar Ebony (350mm Radius) |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ |
| Pickup | DiMarzio JD Fortitude (Bridge) |
| Hardware | Hipshot Tone-A-Matic & LTD Locking Tuners |
| Frets | 22 Extra Jumbo Stainless Steel |
| Case | JD-I Form Fit Case Included |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the “Roasted Maple” neck different?
The roasting process removes moisture and impurities from the wood. This results in a neck that is significantly more stable, less prone to warping due to temperature changes, and feels smoother to the touch.
Why does it only have one pickup?
Joe Duplantier’s playing style relies on a specific, high-output bridge tone. Removing the neck pickup and toggle switches simplifies the internal circuitry, reducing signal interference and providing a more “direct” and honest sound.
Is this guitar suitable for styles other than metal?
While designed for Gojira’s heavy technical style, the DiMarzio Fortitude pickup is highly responsive to volume changes. It can produce excellent “edge-of-breakup” tones, though its primary home is high-gain rock and metal.
Are the stainless steel frets durable?
Yes. Unlike traditional nickel-silver frets, stainless steel frets are incredibly hard. They resist “pitting” and wear, meaning you won’t need a fret dress or refret for a very long time, even with heavy use.
Conclusion
The ESP LTD Joe Duplantier Signature JD-I is a rare breed of instrument that balances boutique-level specs with the ruggedness of a touring tool. By focusing on the essentials—resonance, stability, and high-fidelity output—ESP and Duplantier have created a guitar that rewards precision and punishes the weak. Whether you are a Gojira devotee or a player seeking a no-nonsense, high-performance electric guitar, the JD-I in Silver Sunburst is a formidable choice.
Pre-Order & Pricing Details
Available at Andertons, priced £2199
Available at Sweetwater, priced at $1799
Available at Thomann, priced €2299
More Information
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