EIIEXNTSW-B5515 vs EIIVIPERBLK — Compare
ESP E-II EX/NT/SW guitar B-Stock 5515 vs ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar
The EX/NT/SW is a B-Stock closeout with a thinner neck profile and EMG 60/81 configuration optimized for tight, aggressive metal tones, while the Viper is a full-retail instrument with 24 frets (vs. 22), coil-split versatility via EMG 66TW/57TW pickups, and greater clean-to-lead range. Choose the EX/NT/SW for maximum savings on a metal-focused machine; choose the Viper if you want more fretboard real estate, tonal flexibility, and plan to use cleans regularly.
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Specs side by side
| ESP E-II EX/NT/SW guitar B-Stock 5515 | ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,895.20 | $2,399.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP E-II EX | ESP E-II Viper |
| Body | — | Double Cutaway |
| 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 |
| Neck Construction | Neck-Thru-Body | — |
| Pickup Configuration | Active HH | Active HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar | Fixed |
| Year | 2021 | 2024 |
| Condition | Refurbished | New |
Why choose ESP E-II EX/NT/SW guitar B-Stock 5515
- ✓ B-Stock pricing offers significant savings on a Tokyo-built professional instrument
- ✓ Extra-jumbo frets and thin U-profile neck ideal for speed and drop-tuning aggression
- ✓ EMG 60/81 pairing delivers tight, punchy metal articulation without oversaturation
Why choose ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar
- ✓ 24 extra-jumbo frets provide two additional notes for modern progressive and lead work
- ✓ EMG 66TW/57TW with independent coil-split controls enable humbucker-to-single-coil switching for versatile clean and lead tones
- ✓ Asymmetrical double-cut design offers superior upper-fret access and aesthetic statement
Frequently asked questions
What's the practical difference in fret count?
The EX/NT/SW has 22 extra-jumbo frets while the Viper has 24. For standard tuning and metal riffing, 22 is sufficient; the extra two frets on the Viper matter for extended lead phrases and progressive techniques.
Which guitar handles cleans better?
The Viper's EMG 66TW/57TW pickups with coil-split controls excel at clean to moderate-gain tones thanks to single-coil voicing options. The EX/NT/SW's EMG 60/81 pairing is voiced primarily for high-gain metal and produces thinner cleans by design.
Is the B-Stock designation a concern?
No—B-Stock means cosmetic blemishes only (scratches, finish marks, etc.). Playability, electronics, and structural integrity are identical to new retail stock. Tone and feel are completely unaffected.
Which suits djent and drop tunings better?
Both excel at djent with their set-thru construction and active EMG electronics. The EX/NT/SW's tighter, punchier midrange and 60/81 voicing edge out the Viper slightly for extreme drop tunings; the Viper's thicker midrange is also excellent if you want more body in ultra-low frequencies.