EIIECDBVB-B vs EIIVIPERBLK-B — Compare
ESP E-II Eclipse VB Vintage Black Guitar B Stock vs ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock
The Eclipse VB uses set-neck construction with EMG 60/81 pickups for warm, balanced tones ideal for hard rock and studio work, while the Viper employs set-thru construction with EMG 66TW/57TW pickups offering higher output and coil-tap versatility for aggressive metal and drop tunings. Choose the Eclipse VB for traditional rock tone and comfort, or the Viper for maximum aggression and modern pickup flexibility.
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ESP E-II Eclipse VB Vintage Black Guitar B Stock
ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP E-II Eclipse VB Vintage Black Guitar B Stock | ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,103.20 | $1,999.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP E-II Eclipse | ESP E-II Viper |
| Body | Single Cutaway | Explorer |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | HH | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP E-II Eclipse VB Vintage Black Guitar B Stock
- ✓ Set-neck construction balances sustain with warm, articulate tonal character
- ✓ EMG 60/81 pickup pairing excels at both lead clarity and heavy rhythm tones
- ✓ Thin U neck with 22 extra-jumbo frets proven for fast, comfortable play
- ✓ B-stock discount on premium Japanese-made instrument in excellent condition
Why choose ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Set-thru construction maximizes sustain and resonance for extended notes
- ✓ EMG 66TW/57TW with coil-tap functionality provides high-output clarity and tonal variety
- ✓ Gotoh locking tuners and TOM bridge deliver superior tuning stability during aggressive play
- ✓ 24 extra-jumbo frets reduce fret noise while supporting expressive bending
Frequently asked questions
What's the main construction difference between these two?
The Eclipse VB uses set-neck construction, which joins the neck to the body at an angle for enhanced sustain and body resonance. The Viper uses set-thru construction, where the neck extends through the body for maximum sustain and harmonic transfer. Set-thru is generally more aggressive-sounding; set-neck balances sustain with playability comfort.
How do the pickups differ in tone and function?
The Eclipse VB's EMG 60/81 pairing delivers warm leads and heavy rhythms with balanced output. The Viper's EMG 66TW/57TW with coil-tap (via pull controls) offers higher output, articulation, and split-coil voicing options for modern metal. The Viper provides more tonal flexibility; the Eclipse VB offers proven, simpler tone-shaping.
Which is better for drop tunings and aggressive playing?
The Viper is optimized for drop tunings and aggression with set-thru construction, high-output pickups, locking tuners, and TOM bridge for tuning stability during heavy bending. The Eclipse VB works fine for metal but prioritizes balanced tone and comfort over maximum aggression and tuning lock-down.
Are there fret differences that matter?
The Eclipse VB has 22 extra-jumbo frets; the Viper has 24 extra-jumbo frets. Both support fast play and bending. The Viper's 24 frets and extra-jumbo height specifically minimize fret noise during aggressive attack, while the Eclipse VB's 22 frets still provide excellent coverage for most styles.