ESP E-II Eclipse FT Electric Guitar Tobacco Sunburst
ESP's Japan-built Les Paul alternative with figured maple top and Fishman Fluence Modern pickups. The E-II Eclipse sits between LTD imports and ESP Custom Shop, offering boutique aesthetics and active versatility.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Japanese craftsmanship delivers fit and finish that rivals USA-made single-cuts
- +Fishman Fluence Modern pickups offer multiple voicings via push/pull controls
- +Gorgeous figured maple top and Tobacco Sunburst finish compete with guitars at double the price
- +Thru-body stringing and locking tuners ensure tuning stability for drop tunings
- +24.75-inch scale and mahogany body deliver classic LP warmth and sustain
Cons
- −$2,899 is creeping toward Gibson Custom Shop and PRS Core line territory
- −Fishman Fluence Moderns are polarizing — active voicings lack passive warmth for some players
- −E-II resale value doesn't hold like USA-made equivalents from Gibson or PRS
- −Thicker neck profile may not suit players coming from modern shred guitars
The Verdict
The ESP E-II Eclipse FT is Japan’s answer to the Les Paul, and it’s executed with obsessive detail. That figured maple top and Tobacco Sunburst finish are stunning — this looks like a guitar that costs twice as much. The Fishman Fluence Moderns are the wild card: they offer more tonal range than passive pickups, but you’re locked into active voicings that won’t satisfy passive purists. Guitar World and Total Guitar both score E-II models around 4.5/5, praising the Japanese build quality. At $2,899, you’re paying for boutique looks and Fishman versatility. If you play everything from blues to djent and want one guitar that handles it all, this is a strong choice. If you’re a passive pickup traditionalist, look elsewhere.
