Bandwidth efficient coded modulation scheme based on MLC (Multi-Level Code) signals having multiple maps. The use of multiple maps is adapted to various types of coded signals including multi-level LDPC coded modulation signals and other MLC signals to provide for a significant performance gain in the continual effort trying to reach towards Shannon's limit. In the instance of LDPC coded signals, various level LDPC codewords are generated from individual corresponding LDPC encoders. These various level LDPC codewords are arranged into a number of sub-blocks. Encoded bits from multiple level LDPC codewords within each of the sub-blocks are arranged to form symbols that are mapped according to at least two modulations. Each modulation includes a constellation shape and a corresponding mapping. This use of multiple mappings provides for improved performance when compared to encoders that employ only a single mapping.