Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$3,289.00
Guitar Center
$3,289.00
Amazon
$2,763.72 Used
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$3,199.00 New
$2,381.64 Used
Thomann
$3,199.00 $3,190.00 $9.00 · All time low

Average Price: $3,019

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "ESP Horizon FR-II". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The ESP Horizon FR-II is a true powerhouse for guitarists who demand precision, versatility, and style. Crafted with a neck-through-body construction, this electric guitar is designed for those who want to push musical boundaries. Its mahogany body, adorned with a quilted maple top, delivers a rich, resonant tone that cuts through any mix. The 3-piece maple neck, featuring a sleek Thin "U" profile, is capped with an ebony fingerboard, offering a silky-smooth playing experience that's perfect for both rapid-fire solos and nuanced chord work.

Equipped with EMG 66TW and 57TW active humbuckers, this guitar provides a broad tonal palette, ranging from crisp, clear highs to deep, growling lows. The push-pull controls allow for coil-splitting, adding even more versatility to your sound. Whether you're crafting searing leads or chunky rhythm sections, these pickups deliver the power and clarity needed for any style of music.

The Horizon FR-II is fitted with a Floyd Rose Original bridge, ensuring reliable tuning stability even under the most intense whammy bar antics. With Gotoh locking tuners and Dunlop locking strap buttons, this guitar is built to withstand the rigors of live performance. Plus, it comes with a hardshell form-fitting case for safe transportation.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through-body construction for enhanced sustain and tone
  • Mahogany body with quilted maple top
  • 3-piece maple neck with Thin "U" profile and ebony fingerboard
  • EMG 66TW neck pickup and 57TW bridge pickup with coil-splitting
  • Floyd Rose Original bridge for expressive tremolo use
  • Gotoh locking tuners and Dunlop locking strap buttons
  • Includes ESP hardshell case
  • Made in Japan

Product specs

Brand ESP
Model E-II Horizon FR-II
Finish See Thru Black Cherry Sunburst, Tiger Eye Sunburst
Year 2021 - 2025
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Orange, Red
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Fretboard Radius 12"
Neck Construction Neck-Through
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Quilted

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the ESP Horizon FR-II suitable for?

The ESP Horizon FR-II, with its mahogany body and HH pickup configuration, is ideal for rock and metal genres. Its powerful pickups and neck-through construction provide excellent sustain and clarity, making it versatile for heavy riffs and solos.

What is the neck profile like on the ESP Horizon FR-II?

The ESP Horizon FR-II features a thin U-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable grip and fast playability, which is beneficial for shredding and complex chord progressions.

How does the locking tremolo bridge on the ESP Horizon FR-II affect tuning stability?

The locking tremolo bridge on the ESP Horizon FR-II offers excellent tuning stability, allowing for aggressive whammy bar use without detuning the guitar, making it perfect for dive bombs and other tremolo effects.

Is the ESP Horizon FR-II suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the ESP Horizon FR-II is designed with advanced players in mind, featuring high-quality materials, a fast neck, and versatile pickups that cater to professional-level performance and recording.

What are the tonal characteristics of the ESP Horizon FR-II's pickups?

The ESP Horizon FR-II's HH pickup configuration provides a powerful, clear tone with excellent articulation, suitable for high-gain settings while maintaining clarity for clean passages, making it versatile across various playing styles.

theperfectguitar

theperfectguitar

ESP Standard Series Horizon FR-II - The Perfect Guitar

Video thumbnail for ESP Standard Series Horizon FR-II - The Perfect Guitar by theperfectguitar

ESP Standard Series Horizon FR-II - The Perfect Guitar

theperfectguitar

theperfectguitar

Video thumbnail for Chappers crazy guitar store - ESP Horizon FR-II by Rob Chapman

Chappers crazy guitar store - ESP Horizon FR-II

Rob Chapman

Rob Chapman

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: E-II HORIZON FR-II Demonstration featuring 林 剛史(Tsuyoshi Hayashi) by ESP Guitars JAPAN Official Channel

ESP Guitars: E-II HORIZON FR-II Demonstration featuring 林 剛史(Tsuyoshi Hayashi)

ESP Guitars JAPAN Official Channel

ESP Guitars JAPAN Official Channel

Video thumbnail for ESP Horizon FR-II stbk by Oliver Lukacs

ESP Horizon FR-II stbk

Oliver Lukacs

Oliver Lukacs

Video thumbnail for ESP Guitars: ESP E-II Horizon FR-II Demo by Luis Kalil by ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars: ESP E-II Horizon FR-II Demo by Luis Kalil

ESP Guitars USA

ESP Guitars USA

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | ESP E-II Horizon FR-II | Tiger Eye Sunburst by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | ESP E-II Horizon FR-II | Tiger Eye Sunburst

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for ESP Horizon FR-II Black Aqua - Quick Demo by Andrelino Nugroho

ESP Horizon FR-II Black Aqua - Quick Demo

Andrelino Nugroho

Andrelino Nugroho

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Setup and maintenance

  • The Floyd Rose system is manageable if tuning is kept consistent, reducing the complexity of setup adjustments.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Owners rave about the Seymour Duncan pickups, noting their ability to handle distortion while maintaining clean, articulate tones.

    Source
  • The headstock design, often referred to as the "cockstock," is favored by some for its improved tuning stability compared to other ESP models.

    Source

User experience

  • Smooth fret ends and a perfectly crafted neck are highlighted as standout features elevating the guitar's playability.

    Source
  • ESP guitars, like the Horizon FR-II, are often regarded as holding their value well, making them a financially sound investment for enthusiasts.

    Source
  • Owners of both ESP and LTD guitars mention that out-of-the-box quality is superior in the MIJ (Made in Japan) ESP and E-II models, requiring less setup and fret finishing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A hardtail version is noted for its metal-focused design, offering a different playing experience compared to the Floyd Rose model.

    Source
  • Users note that the neck profile on the ESP Horizon FR-II is not as flat or thin as the Ibanez RG Prestige series, which affects playability preferences.

    Source
  • An owner noted that while the ESP EII is superior, the LTD EC-1000 Deluxe offers comparable features, particularly with Gotoh hardware and EMG 61 pickups.

    Source
  • The E-II models are noted to resonate more and feel more solid than Korean-made LTD guitars, with a more acoustic-like unplugged sound.

    Source
  • The ESP E-II Horizon FR is compared to the Schecter C1 Hellraiser for its aesthetic similarities, particularly in different color options.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Tuned to D standard, the guitar excels in delivering heavy, metal-oriented sounds.

    Source
  • Owners of both ESP and Ibanez models often choose ESP for recording, citing a slight preference due to its tonal characteristics.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • ESP Horizon models in the EU, particularly in France, have been found for as low as €1000, highlighting regional pricing differences.

    Source
  • There is some confusion and dissatisfaction regarding the introduction of the E-II branding, with owners anticipating increased value retention for their ESP Standard models.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • For those converting from a floating tremolo to a hardtail bridge, a qualified luthier should handle the modifications to ensure proper sealing and setup.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Horizon FR-II Review: This guitar delivers what I need, and more. | ESP | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The ESP Horizon FR-II impresses with its metal-ready sound, stunning aesthetics, and robust build, making it a go-to for metal enthusiasts. With a versatile tone palette, thanks to its Seymour Duncan pickups, it adapts well across genres, although its forte lies in heavier music. The guitar's playability shines, aided by the comfortable neck and reliable Floyd Rose bridge. While some might wish for active electronics for an extra punch, the existing setup delivers admirably. Lightweight for stage performance and crafted with durability in mind, it's a reliable gig companion. Overall, this guitar is a superb choice for those seeking quality and performance in the ESP Standard series.

positive

theGUITARaddict: ESP: Horizon FR-II

theguitaraddict.blogspot.com

The ESP Horizon FR-II strikes a chord with its impressive tone and playability. Featuring an ebony fretboard and a sleek dual cutaway design, this guitar offers excellent upper fret access and a comfortable rib-cage chamfer. The Seymour Duncan '59 and JB Trembucker pickups provide a versatile sound palette. While the price is on the higher side, it's justified by the quality and features. If you're eyeing an ESP, act fast before prices rise. Overall, a top-notch instrument for serious players.

positive

Review: LTD MH-330FR + ESP Horizon FR-II SD – Kitarablogi.com – Finland's premier Guitar and Bass blog

kitarablogi.com

The ESP Horizon FR-II is a top-tier guitar that showcases exceptional Japanese craftsmanship, offering smooth playability and a versatile sound palette, thanks to its Seymour Duncan pickups and coil-split feature. Its Schaller-made Floyd Rose Original vibrato ensures reliable performance, making it ideal for virtuoso guitarists. While it boasts a warm and organic tone, which might not suit all metal enthusiasts, it remains a standout choice for those seeking quality and versatility. Overall, the review highlights the Horizon FR-II as a premium instrument, with the only critique being personal tonal preferences.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
unknownambivert

Epic guitar

Neck-Thru-Body / 25.5” Scale · Mahogany Body w/ Quilted Maple Top · Maple Neck w/ Ebony Fingerboard · Locking Nut w/ 42mm Neck Width · Thin U Neck Contour · 24 XJ Frets · Black Nickel Hardware · Gotoh Tuners · Floyd Rose Bridge · Seymour Duncan TB-4 JB / SH-1 ’59

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sugizo uses ESP Horizon FR-II

Sugizo

Guitarist, Composer

X Japan

...
Verified via Guitarthai

According to an article on Guitarthai, in addition to his own signature ESP Eclipse lineup, Sugizo also used an ESP Horizon, Fender Jaguars, Fender Stratocasters, Fender Telecasters, Gibson ES175, a Gibson Les Paul Custom, a Richenbacker 330, and electric violins made by Kranz.

He also used Diezel VH4 head, a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier head, a Mesa Boogie 4x12 cabinet, a TC Electronic TC 2290 Rackmount Dynamic Digital Delay, Decimator ProRack G power conditioner, a script Phase 90, a Boss CE-2 Chorus pedal, a Boss OD-1 pedal, a Providence Final Booster, a Digitech Whammy II, an Eventide Pitchfactor, an Eventide TimeFactor, an Eventide ModFactor, a TC Electronic G System, a Boss PS-5 Super Shifter, a Blackstar HT-DIST Distortion pedal, and a Providence Stampede Overdrive.

See how Leda uses ESP Horizon FR-II

Leda

Guitarist, Bassist

BABYMETAL

...
Verified via YouTube

Since the formation of Undivide, Leda has used ENGL amplifiers during his time in Undivide and Babymetal. In this live footage of a soundcheck prior to a Sonisphere concert, Leda can be seen using a Floyd Rose variant of an ESP Horizon (modded with a D-Tuna) and the ENGL Powerball amplifier head.

Leda's guitar and amp head is visible from 1:43.

See how Erol Sevik uses ESP Horizon FR-II

Erol Sevik

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Facebook

"Morning chill with my ESP Horizon fr-II"

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 Horizon FR-II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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