EARROWBLKAND vs EECCTMPURPPL — Compare
ESP Arrow BLK/Andromeda guitar vs ESP ECLIPSE/CTM/PURPLE PEEL guitar
The ESP Arrow is a neck-thru shredder optimized for extreme technical playing and drop tunings with a Floyd Rose system, while the Eclipse Custom is a hand-crafted set-neck workhorse balancing modern aggression with traditional single-cutaway comfort. Choose the Arrow for speed-focused metal lead work; choose the Eclipse for versatile hard rock and studio sessions.
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Specs side by side
| ESP Arrow BLK/Andromeda guitar | ESP ECLIPSE/CTM/PURPLE PEEL guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $6,199.00 | $6,299.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP E-II Arrow | ESP E-II Eclipse |
| Body | Explorer | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25.5" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 22 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Mahogany |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | Set-Neck |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | Active HH |
| Bridge | Floyd Rose Original | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar |
| Year | 2017 | — |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP Arrow BLK/Andromeda guitar
- ✓ Neck-thru construction maximizes sustain and resonance across full range
- ✓ 24 extra-jumbo frets support high-register soloing and extended technique
- ✓ Floyd Rose Original bridge enables reliable tuning stability and pitch manipulation
- ✓ Lightweight alder body feels balanced and responsive
Why choose ESP ECLIPSE/CTM/PURPLE PEEL guitar
- ✓ Hand-crafted Japan Custom Shop construction from world-renowned luthiers
- ✓ Set-neck mahogany design delivers traditional tonal coherence with modern edge
- ✓ Independent neck and bridge volume controls provide surgical command over tone
- ✓ 22 XJ frets with thin U contour ideal for extended playing comfort
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for drop tunings?
The ESP Arrow is specifically designed for drop tunings with its neck-thru construction maintaining consistency across lower registers and its Floyd Rose bridge providing reliable tuning stability. The Eclipse Custom, while capable, is not optimized for extreme tuning exploration.
How do the fret counts differ and why does it matter?
The Arrow has 24 extra-jumbo frets compared to the Eclipse's 22 XJ frets. The Arrow's additional frets and jumbo size favor high-register shredding and ultra-fast lead work. The Eclipse's 22 frets prioritize traditional balance between lead and rhythm playing comfort.
What's the construction difference and how does it affect tone?
The Arrow uses neck-thru construction for maximum sustain and vibration transfer, while the Eclipse uses set-neck construction for tonal coherence and warmth from its mahogany body and maple cap. Arrow delivers tighter, more articulate attack; Eclipse provides rounder, more cohesive sustain.
Which is better for studio recording?
The Eclipse Custom edges ahead with its independent neck and bridge volume controls, three-way toggle flexibility, and hand-crafted consistency ideal for tracking multiple takes. The Arrow's mini toggle and master volume setup is simpler but less nuanced for detailed mixing scenarios.