ESP is known for the craftsmanship and quality built into each of the guitars and basses it produces. The ESP Standard Eclipse is a fine example of the manufacturer's high standards. The E-II is an instrument that both looks and sounds great. The designers at ESP pay close attention to detail. The guitars in this line are made of two soft kinds of wood: maple and mahogany. These woods are known for the warmth and resonance of the sound they create.The original series Eclipse is known for its reliability, especially when playing live, and this model is no different. The Standard E-II is great at the basics. Made in Japan, it provides all the things musicians look for in a rock-style electric guitar. Effects pedals and feedback are used to shake things up on stage or in the studio. This is a great model for jamming with friends, recording, or playing live no matter your skill level. The E-II is a solid general-use guitar. The guitars in this series create a great rock-style sound, but you can explore other genres as well on this high-quality instrument. Features include a rosewood fingerboard, 22 jumbo frets, and 24 3/4-inch scale length. This combination makes for a highly playable and durable instrument. The jumbo frets make chord formation easier, and the rosewood fingerboard stands up to frequent playing. As a naturally oily wood, rosewood is resistant to the oils deposited on it by fingers. The quality of the fretboard and neck make this very fast-playing guitar.It also features two EMG-81/EMG-60 humbucker pickups. Humbuckers create a warm, full sound and flatter a guitar's sustain. They also sound muddier and grittier than a single coil pickup to make the gear more versatile. High-quality Gotoh hardware features heavily on this instrument in the Tune-o-Matic style bridge and locking tuners. The controls on this guitar are a toggle switch and Vol/Vol/Tone. This all helps the instrument stay in tune longer whether playing live or in the studio.In addition to having great tone, this is also a good-looking instrument. Stylish, durable chrome hardware provides a classic rock look. The headstock is made from quilted maple, an attractive wood. The body features a sleek finish. The cut-away design is reminiscent of classics from the years when rock dominated the airwaves. The ESP Standard Eclipse II is one of the elite and highly regarded electric instruments produced by this manufacturer. Several artists have signature E-IIs in their name, including Elias Viljanen and Jesse Liu.This Japanese instrument is a great step up for a musician who wants to grow their skills. Expect this instrument to perform day in and day out for years to come both on the road and in the studio. Take the leap to an E-II to deliver rock sound like never before.