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Description

Step into the world of exceptional sound and craftsmanship with the ESP E-II AP-5, a 5-string electric bass designed for the discerning musician. Engineered in Japan, this bass features a pair of Seymour Duncan SMB-5D humbucking pickups, renowned for their ability to deliver a powerful and punchy tone that cuts through any mix. Whether you're laying down a groovy funk line or driving the rhythm in a rock ensemble, this bass has the versatility to adapt to any musical style.

Crafted with a solid ash body, the ESP E-II AP-5 offers both durability and a rich, classic bass sound. The Thin "U" maple neck ensures effortless playability, a perfect companion for intricate bass lines or extended jam sessions. Its rosewood fingerboard complements the neck, providing a smooth surface for fast-paced playing and 21 extra-jumbo frets for precise fingerwork.

Technical excellence is further embodied in its hardware. The Gotoh bridge and tuners ensure your performance is stable, with enhanced sustain and tuning precision. A 3-band EQ system with a Slap switch gives you immediate control over your sound, allowing you to shape your tone to your exact preference. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the ESP E-II AP-5 is a reliable partner that promises top-notch quality and performance.

Key Features:

  • Seymour Duncan SMB-5D humbucking pickups for dynamic sound
  • Solid ash body for classic bass tones
  • Thin "U" maple neck for comfortable playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 21 extra-jumbo frets
  • 3-band EQ with Slap switch for versatile tone control
  • Gotoh bridge and tuners for stability and sustain
  • Includes hardshell case for protection

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the ESP E-II AP-5 bass guitar?

The ESP E-II AP-5 features a thin U neck contour, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the ESP E-II AP-5?

The ESP E-II AP-5 is equipped with Seymour Duncan SMB-5D pickups, offering a powerful and punchy tone ideal for rock, metal, and funk genres.

Is the ESP E-II AP-5 suitable for advanced bass players?

Yes, the ESP E-II AP-5 is designed with professional features such as a white ash body, maple neck, and active tone circuit, making it ideal for advanced players seeking high-quality sound and playability.

Does the ESP E-II AP-5 bass guitar have active electronics?

Yes, the ESP E-II AP-5 includes a Duncan STC-3M4 3-band active tone circuit, allowing for precise tonal adjustments and versatility.

What is the scale length of the ESP E-II AP-5?

The ESP E-II AP-5 features a 34" scale length, which is standard for most electric bass guitars, providing a balanced tension and feel across the strings.

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보현쌤

최초 구독자 악기 리뷰! ESP E-II AP-5 BASS

Video thumbnail for 최초 구독자 악기 리뷰! ESP E-II AP-5 BASS by 보현쌤

최초 구독자 악기 리뷰! ESP E-II AP-5 BASS

보현쌤

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Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: E-II AP-5 Demonstration by ESP Guitars JAPAN Official Channel

ESP Guitars: E-II AP-5 Demonstration

ESP Guitars JAPAN Official Channel

ESP Guitars JAPAN Official Channel

Video thumbnail for ESP E-II AP5 Bass - maxproud by maxproud

ESP E-II AP5 Bass - maxproud

maxproud

maxproud

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP E-II AP-5.

Build quality

  • The AP-5 is noted for its solid neck-through design and a 5-piece neck, contributing to its durability and stable tuning.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners recommend upgrading the stock preamp to a Darkglass Tone Capsule for improved tonal control, especially enhancing bass and mid frequencies.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users experienced issues with floppy low-B strings, suggesting a careful string choice and setup to ensure optimal tension and playability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Owners appreciate the Grover tuners for their reliability, ensuring stable tuning during performances.

    Source
  • The E-II lineup is noted for its limited bass offerings in the U.S., but models like the AP, BTL, and GB series are still available through Japanese dealers.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The AP-5 is praised for its versatility across genres, being used comfortably for both metal and non-metal genres like The Eagles and Muse.

    Source
  • Despite limited availability in the U.S., ESP Amaze models can be ordered by U.S. dealers, providing access to unique bass options for American players.

    Source

User experience

  • The 35” scale length may feel off-putting for some players, especially when first adjusting to the instrument.

    Source

Comparisons

  • ESP's Amaze bass, though similar to a Fender Jazz, features thinner, sharper horns and a smaller body, differing from typical Fender copies.

    Source

Other

  • Fender's body shapes and headstocks aren't as protected as Gibson's, allowing for numerous Fender-style copies in the market like Sadowsky and Schecter.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mike Martin uses ESP E-II AP-5

Mike Martin

Guitarist

All That Remains

...
Verified via YouTube

At 13:15 of this episode of "RIGGED" from the Gear Gods YouTube channel, Mike "Rickshaw" Martin lightens up the mood and gives us a tour of the latest rig he used for the Allstars Tour. He shows off his ESP E-II AP-5 Bass with double humbuckers $$. He mentions that this bass is his backup whenever the ESP Surveyor fails him.

See how MIke "Rickshaw" Martin uses ESP E-II AP-5

MIke "Rickshaw" Martin

Bassist

iwrestledabearonce

...
Verified via YouTube

Mike has an esp e2 ap-5 bass as a backup live

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ESP E-II AP-5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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