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ESP Eclipse II FM
List: $2,100
Dear Dr. Lecter,
It is upon your learned recommendation that I have discovered this articulate instrument, an oriental take on the popular American singlecut design (we know too well the brand name which propels this outline) but a very intimidating interpretation indeed.
I would like to bring to your attention the ESP (Electric Sound Products) brand name which started out as a dedicated replacement parts company in Japan which later embarked on regular production in 1984. Its reputation for top grade construction, fit & finish earned the company a preferred status when far-eastern production is concerned. The product in question is a member of the relatively new (2004-2005) Standard series, which trims off the price relative to the frills of a Custom version, without compromising quality & tone. Outstanding.
Dr. Lecter sir, while this Eclipse mimics that of the immortal Gibson Les Paul, the body outline is the only immitable aspect of that replication. This product proves that the manufacturer has no obligations to conform to the American proportions primarily due to the fact that it might land them into legal complications. The body’s depth is an obvious non-conformist element here, sporting a slimmer, less bulky make. The rear also sports a rib-cage chamfer to address a more snug fit should the instrument be employed extensively as a strapped-on preference. Particularly captivating is the maple capped, arched top body. The manufacturer has included a visually stunning flame grade & if one is to judge the instrument’s worth strictly by virtue of this attribute, it’s worth every cent.
Included in this package is a fine rosewood fretboard offering, devoid of dry parchments which plagued the quality of many American made guitars. The frets are also burr-free & fitted professionally onto the fretboard plane. Upon handling, one cannot but be impressed with the degree of playability it has to offer. The neck profile in question is that of an arguably shallow ‘D’ curvature but not too extensive width-wise. Nevertheless, the single cutaway design proved to be rather restrictive at the upper fret register but unlike its American counterpart, the body’s thinner depth virtually serves as an extension of the neck. One would feel more confortable stretching one’s digits on this guitar, rest assured.
What is a guitar if it doesn’t sing one might ask? In use, the Eclipse very much satiates high gain settings as the resident pickups here are the ferocious EMG 81/ 60 in the bridge & neck respectively. Despite its active nature, the 60 is able to churn out an impressive clean tone at lower volumes. On the said matter, I was initially bogged down by confusion as the knob nearest the pickup proves to be the bridge volume, followed by the neck control in the centre & finally the master tone knob at the farthest location. The fine nut incisions coupled with the default Sperzel locking tuners ensure tuning issues are the last concern when one plays this beautiful instrument.
It leaves me to conclude, Dr. Lecter, that this electric guitar would be a perfect kill for an individual who is tolerant of a single cutaway derivative, should they revere tone & playability above looks. I do find the asymmetrical headstock design repulsive to a certain extent; it is worth reminding ouserlves that this quirkiness contributes zilch to tone. Pearticular individuals might also be repelled by the instrument’s satin finish, especially when they are not accustomed to the crude mahogany neck rear. Interested investors might be eager to know that the Eclipse II also sports an alternative pickup type- the passive Seymour Duncan JB (bridge)/ 59 (neck) duo. Decisions, decisions…
Perhaps you might forgive this preoccupation but it seems that I have within my observation the agent known as Clarice Starling who seems to be excessively meloncholic, true to your perception. More on this matter as it unfolds. Until then, my dear Dr. Lecter, bon apetit.
Yours in apprentice,
Gemini, the uncaught
Rating: 9/10
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