6SEUSHORSTBLK vs EIISN2BMBLUNFDLH — Compare
ESP USA Horizon See Thru Black Electric Guitar vs ESP E-II SN-2 Lefty Guitar in Blue Natural Fade
The ESP USA Horizon is a set-thru-neck premium American-made instrument with active EMG pickups optimized for high-output metal and studio work, while the E-II SN-2 is a more affordable Japanese-built bolt-on with Bare Knuckle passive pickups and a Floyd Rose, better suited for players who want responsive playability and vibrato access. Choose the Horizon for maximum sustain and noise-free studio clarity; choose the E-II SN-2 if you're left-handed, want vibrato capability, or prefer a more lively, responsive feel on a tighter budget.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP USA Horizon See Thru Black Electric Guitar
ESP E-II SN-2 Lefty Guitar in Blue Natural Fade
Specs side by side
| ESP USA Horizon See Thru Black Electric Guitar | ESP E-II SN-2 Lefty Guitar in Blue Natural Fade | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $4,299.00 | $3,399.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP E-II Horizon | — |
| Body | Single Cutaway | SG Style |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | — | Maple |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2014 | 2023 |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP USA Horizon See Thru Black Electric Guitar
- ✓ Set-thru-neck construction delivers superior sustain and resonance
- ✓ Active EMG pickups provide high-output, noise-free performance ideal for studio recording
- ✓ American-made at ESP USA facility with premium tonewoods and meticulous craftsmanship
- ✓ Tonepros T.O.M. bridge with string-thru-body ensures rock-solid intonation
Why choose ESP E-II SN-2 Lefty Guitar in Blue Natural Fade
- ✓ Left-handed configuration (not available on Horizon)
- ✓ Floyd Rose Original bridge enables expressive vibrato and extended sustain techniques
- ✓ Bare Knuckle Aftermath pickups deliver responsive, lively articulation with aggressive clarity
- ✓ Bolt-on construction keeps feel responsive and punchy; lower price tier than USA model
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar has more sustain?
The ESP USA Horizon's set-thru-neck construction and string-thru-body bridge typically deliver longer sustain. The E-II SN-2's Floyd Rose Original also extends sustain significantly and adds vibrato expressiveness, but the Horizon's construction is engineered primarily for maximum sustain without vibrato.
What's the main playability difference?
Both share the same thin U neck contour, 25.5" scale, 24 extra-jumbo frets, and 42mm nut. The Horizon feels more rigid and stable due to set-thru construction, while the E-II SN-2's bolt-on design delivers a more lively, responsive character.
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
The Horizon excels in the studio with its active EMG pickups and noise-free high-output character, while the E-II SN-2 handles metal and rock well with its Bare Knuckle passives and punchy mids. The choice depends on whether you prioritize studio clarity (Horizon) or live responsiveness and vibrato access (E-II SN-2).
Who should buy which based on budget?
The E-II SN-2 sits in the high price tier and offers excellent value with Japanese craftsmanship and Floyd Rose hardware. The Horizon is premium-priced for American construction and active electronics; it's the investment choice for maximum sustain and studio-grade noise rejection.