danyeo":27tipham said:
What I'd like to know is what's the difference between an ESP Horizon and an E-II Horizon? ESP says they're just a different name but I've seen sooo many claim that the older ESP's are better than the E-II. Any truth to it?
I have a 1987ish Mirage Deluxe, owned a 1995ish M-II Deluxe, currently selling a 2009 Horizon, own a Edwards LP, owned an LTD EC-1000, have played LTD's, LTD Elites, and E-II's. I would say that on average an E-II is on the same level as the newer ESP's, and that the newer ESP's are nicer cosmetically than the older ESP's. Playability is the same.
For the rest of them...
The LTD 1000's are good guitars with great specs, but something about them just doesn't feel the same as an ESP. There's a noticeable difference to me.
LTD Elites are E-II's (ESP Standard Series) with veneers over plain maple, but other than that and maybe the finishing they're on par, which makes them a good value if you can find one used. I don't know how rare they are I just know they weren't made for very long. Edwards are great guitars and are basically LTD Elite quality aside from the finishes. Both are basically a budget version of a true ESP, kind of like the new PRS CE's. Edwards are hard to find in the US at good prices because they're a Japan only brand, but you can find some at LTD 1000 prices occasionally.
The 80's and 90's ESP's don't usually have the elaborate finishes, the binding, carves, or hardware like locking tuners that the new ESP's and even LTD's have, but they make up for that with being absolutely killer sounding and playing guitars.
TL;DR
80's/90's ESP: tone/mojo
ESP/E-II: best cosmetics
LTD Elite: Same as E-II but step down cosmetically
Edwards: Same as LTD Elite but step down cosmetically (and maybe hardware, not sure though)
LTD: Great budget guitars. Like a PRS SE or MIJ Jackson.