Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,199
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "ESP E-II EX". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
With its fierce design and unparalleled performance, the ESP E-II EX is not just another electric guitar—it's a statement. Crafted in Japan by expert luthiers, this axe is for the serious musician who demands both style and substance. The set-through construction combines a mahogany body and neck with an ebony fingerboard, providing an effortlessly smooth playing experience while ensuring that your sound is both rich and resonant.
Equipped with powerful EMG 81 and 60 humbucking pickups, the E-II EX is ready to deliver the searing leads and thunderous lows that make it a favorite among metalheads. The Thin "U" neck profile offers rapid access across all 22 X-Jumbo stainless steel frets, encouraging those fast, finger-twisting solos and intricate leads. Gotoh locking tuners and Gotoh Tune-O-Matic bridge and tailpiece guarantee that your tuning remains rock-solid, even during the most energetic performances.
For those who are always on the go, the ESP E-II EX comes with a hardshell case to keep your guitar safe between gigs. Whether you're hitting the stage or the studio, this guitar is built to perform and impress, making it a reliable companion for any guitar hero in the making.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body and set-in neck
- Ebony fingerboard with 22 X-Jumbo stainless steel frets
- EMG 81 (bridge) and EMG 60 (neck) humbuckers
- Gotoh locking tuners with Tune-O-Matic bridge and tailpiece
- Bone nut with a width of 42 mm (1.65 inches)
- Scale length: 629 mm (24.75 inches)
- Includes hardshell case for protection
- Made in Japan
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | E-II EX NT |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Finish | Gloss |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Thin U |
| Neck Joint | Set-through |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22, Extra Jumbo |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.653" |
| Nut Material | Bone |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Gotoh Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Stopbar Tailpiece |
| Tuners | Gotoh Locking |
| Neck Pickup | EMG 60 Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | EMG 81 Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x master volume, 1 x master tone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | Elixir, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What kind of music genres is the ESP E-II EX NT Electric Guitar best suited for?
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The ESP E-II EX NT, equipped with EMG 60 and EMG 81 humbuckers, is ideal for metal and hard rock genres, offering high output and clarity suitable for aggressive playing styles.
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How does the neck profile of the ESP E-II EX NT affect playability?
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The ESP E-II EX NT features a Thin U neck profile, providing a comfortable grip for fast playing and easy access to all 22 frets, making it suitable for shredders and lead guitarists.
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Are the pickups on the ESP E-II EX NT suitable for clean tones?
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While the EMG 60 and EMG 81 pickups are known for their high gain capabilities, they also deliver clear and articulate clean tones, especially when used with lower gain settings.
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Does the ESP E-II EX NT come with a case?
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Yes, the ESP E-II EX NT comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection for your guitar during transport and storage.
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What is the scale length of the ESP E-II EX NT Electric Guitar?
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The ESP E-II EX NT has a scale length of 24.75 inches, which provides a slightly looser string tension, making it easier to bend strings and achieve a smooth playing experience.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
The Best a Metaller Can Get? - Extreme ESP 2021 FRX & EX Guitars
Reviews
PROS
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EMG 81 and 60 pickups offer versatile sound from clean to powerful distortion
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Lightweight design makes it comfortable for long standing play
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Meticulously finished with no visible imperfections, even after extensive use
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Slim, U-shaped neck provides an easy grip for medium-sized hands
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Locking tuners simplify string changes and tuning stability
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Matte neck finish enhances smooth playability
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Explorer shape allows for exploration across rock and metal genres
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Robust construction supports heavier strings and alternate tunings
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Timeless aesthetic with durable, non-oxidizing black finish
CONS
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Prone to headstock tip damage, possibly from handling or transport
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High price point may not reflect expected perfection
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Guitar is neck-heavy, requiring use of strap locks for balance
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ESP E-II EX.
Features and functionality
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The E-II EX NT typically has zero neck dive, attributed to its heavier wood and balanced design, making it comfortable for extended play.
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The Snakebyte's strap button placement on the back effectively eliminates neck dive, enhancing playability and comfort.
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The E-II EX NT's neck is frequently highlighted as one of the best features, described as exceptionally comfortable by multiple owners.
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Comparisons
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The JH signature pickups in the Snakebyte are designed to sound more like passive pickups, offering a punchier low end compared to the 81/60 setup.
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User experience
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Owners report that the Het Set EMGs in the Snakebyte deliver excellent clean tones, which some find superior to the 81/60 combination for clean settings.
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Owners note long wait times for availability, with some waiting up to 11 months for delivery due to limited stock and discontinuation concerns.
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A 2015 model with a rosewood fretboard is praised for its fantastic playability and comfort.
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Value and pricing
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E-II EX NT models are valued for their better resale value and build quality, often justifying the higher price compared to LTD models.
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Discontinuation has affected availability, with the last units being offered through select retailers like Guitar Center and Sweetwater, potentially impacting future resale values.
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Buyers often face backorder delays, with Sweetwater's estimated shipping dates prone to change, impacting purchase plans.
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Mods and upgrades
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One user swapped out default pickups for Fishman Fluence, indicating a preference for even more tailored tonal characteristics.
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Build quality
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Owners note the E-II EX NT's thicker neck is very comfortable, without being overly large or cumbersome.
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