ESP Eclipse models

[Fiesta Red]

The ESP models are a bit pricey for me just to check one out. How do the E-II models stack up? How about the LTD models. Don't need anything with fancy grain, plain color is fine. I'd like to check one out to see what it's like. I've had multiple ESPs -- a couple of Kamikazes, a tiger. I had an LTD Burnt Tiger that I was pretty impressed with -- I think it was Korean.

How do the less pricey options fair?

 

[Geo]

Well the main difference is the E-ll is made in Japan, that by itself is a big jump in build quality and price.

 

[Inearthed]

The EII Eclipses I've played have been just as good as the old standard series Eclipse I have. The original series ESP (the ones they make now with ESP on the headstock) are a step above in quality for sure. LTD wise the higher end models (1000 series) are what I would go for if you're considering a new LTD. I feel as though they're a step down from the EII's though. They're definitely still good instruments but cheaper feeling and lower quality, finishes are worse and corners are cut. The New 1000 series LTD's mostly have Stainless Steel frets which is a big upgrade and really the only thing they have over the EII's. The nicer LTD's are all running around or over $1000-ish new, and I feel like you can get a EII used for that much - Reverb prices are brain broken, check Craigslist and Facebook market place or even GC used --- they pop up between 1000-1200 regularly. If your price range is around 600-800, LTD 1000 series or the older Korean 400 series is the way to go.

 

[Apex1Rg7X]

My experience with them has been pretty good from LTD up to ESP. Honestly the ESP USA I had was the best one. Felt closest to an LP with a FT body but more modern feel. The E-II I had was pretty good but I didn’t like the neck as much as the USA. LTD EC-1000 is really hard to beat for the money though when it comes down to it. There are tons of options as far as body thickness, passive or active pickups, standard bridge or Evertune etc. The price point is pretty fair as well.

 

[Steinmetzify]

There are differences.

My buddy has a bunch of Eclipses and they all sound and play great; he’s got a silver burst that’s the coolest looking one, a reindeer blue that’s spectacular and one that started out white that’s turned a vintage cream color and that’s the best one BY FAR.

Look for an older SS series if you can’t grab an Original Series; I have a Viper from 2011 and it’s one of the best guitars I’ve ever played.

 

[Spaceboy]

my gig guitars are an e-ii eclipse main, and two ltd eclipes, one backup and one alt tuning. no complaints, even the ltds are bangin. never had a usa ltd.