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ESP Phoenix - II Bass

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Description

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Designed for the discerning bassist, the ESP Phoenix - II Bass is an instrument that combines classic aesthetics with modern innovation. This electric bass is part of ESP's renowned lineup, known for its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. Crafted with an alder body and a three-piece maple neck, the Phoenix - II offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience with exceptional resonance and sustain. The 34-inch scale ensures a familiar feel and rich tonal depth, making it versatile enough for a variety of musical genres.

The Phoenix - II Bass is equipped with powerful Seymour Duncan SB-4 pickups, delivering a punchy and articulate sound that cuts through any mix. The ESP-designed bridge and Gotoh tuners ensure stable tuning and precise intonation, even during the most intense performances. This bass also features a rosewood fingerboard with 21 extra-jumbo frets, allowing for effortless playability and expressive bends. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the ESP Phoenix - II Bass offers reliability and a dynamic range of tones that will inspire your creativity.

Key Features:

Alder body with a three-piece maple neck
34-inch scale length
Seymour Duncan SB-4 pickups
ESP-designed bridge and Gotoh tuners
Rosewood fingerboard with 21 extra-jumbo frets
Sleek, ergonomic design for comfortable playability

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Owner Insights

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

Mods and upgrades

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Owners customize with Seymour Duncan pickups, specifically the SD Custom Custom at the bridge and Phat Cat P90 at the neck, for a tailored tonal experience.
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Installing a Dimarzio clip lock strap can enhance stability and prevent neck dive during performances.
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Owners often black out hardware to match existing black pickguards, emphasizing a minimalist aesthetic.
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A common modification involves relocating the upper strap button towards the center of the body below the neck for better balance, similar to an Explorer.
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Other

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A filled hole on a second-hand Phoenix indicates previous unsuccessful attempts to improve strap placement by mimicking Les Paul/tele positions.
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User experience

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A user reported discomfort from neck dive leading to back pain, resolved by repositioning the strap button to match Gibson Firebird placements.
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The satin finish on the neck receives praise for its comfortable feel and aesthetic contrast, highlighting user satisfaction with its look and playability.
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Use cases and applications

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While comfortable sitting, some players find the Phoenix awkward standing due to its forward neck tilt and balance issues.
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Fishman Modern pickups excel in metal genres, while the Open Core Classics are recommended for subtler, lower gain rock sounds.
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Comparisons

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The ESP Phoenix's neck profile was found less comfortable compared to the extra thin neck of the MH-1000 Evertune, which some users preferred.
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Some users prefer the ESP Phoenix-II over Firebirds due to ESP's overall build quality and minimalist design appeal.
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Setup and maintenance

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Drilling a new strap button hole centered with the neck can significantly improve balance and reduce neck dive issues.
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Features and functionality

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The ESP script logo is crafted in black mother of pearl, adding a subtle, elegant touch to the instrument's design.
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This model includes Luminlay side-dots for improved visibility on dark stages, enhancing playability for performers in low-light conditions.
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The absence of tone pots allows the neck pickup to produce super fat strat sounds, offering versatility in tonal options.
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Build quality

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The ESP Phoenix-II is noted for its substantial weight, often described as a "boat anchor" at around 10 pounds.
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The ESP Phoenix-II Custom features a satin-finished mahogany neck-thru design with mahogany wings and an ebony fretboard, emphasizing its premium construction.
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Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: ESP Standard Series Phoenix II B Electric Bass Review

rexbass.com

The ESP Phoenix II Bass is a stunning instrument that brings high-quality craftsmanship and playability to the forefront. Its neck-through design and perfectly executed fretwork make for a smooth playing experience, while the gorgeous finish adds visual appeal. The EMG pickups deliver versatile sound, suitable for a range of genres from jazz to metal. However, its hefty price tag—nearly $2,000—may deter potential buyers, especially given the competitive market. Additionally, the white pickguard may not appeal to everyone's taste. Despite these drawbacks, this bass is a hidden gem worth seeking out if you can find one.

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