EECCTMPURPPL vs ESTEFB8BLKF1 — Compare
ESP Eclipse Custom Electric Guitar in Purple Peel vs ESP Stef B-8 8-String Baritone Electric Guitar in Black
The Eclipse Custom is a traditional single-cutaway six-string built for metal and hard rock with aggressive lead work, while the Stef B-8 is an eight-string baritone designed for extended-range tunings and djent. Choose the Eclipse for standard tuning metal; choose the Stef B-8 if you need lower frequencies and more strings.
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ESP Eclipse Custom Electric Guitar in Purple Peel
ESP Stef B-8 8-String Baritone Electric Guitar in Black
Specs side by side
| ESP Eclipse Custom Electric Guitar in Purple Peel | ESP Stef B-8 8-String Baritone Electric Guitar in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $6,299.00 | $6,149.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP E-II Eclipse | — |
| Body Type | Solid | — |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 27" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 8 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Mahogany | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Pickup Configuration | Active HH | — |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar | Hipshot |
| Year | — | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP Eclipse Custom Electric Guitar in Purple Peel
- ✓ Set-neck mahogany construction with maple cap delivers sustained resonance and tonal coherence
- ✓ Thin U-contoured neck and 305mm radius reward both precision technique and aggressive playing
- ✓ EMG JH Het Set active pickups provide tight low end, controlled punch, and modern clarity
- ✓ Japan-made Custom Shop hand-crafted construction with ebony fingerboard and XJ jumbo frets
Why choose ESP Stef B-8 8-String Baritone Electric Guitar in Black
- ✓ Eight-string baritone extends playable range significantly below standard tuning for djent and progressive metal
- ✓ Fluence Reverb pickup system delivers noise-free, high-output response optimized across all eight strings
- ✓ Low-impedance pickup design translates cleanly through modern amp chains without phase issues
- ✓ SC body shape balances ergonomic comfort with precise tuning stability on extended-range configuration
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for drop tunings?
The Stef B-8 is purpose-built for extended drop tunings with its baritone scale length and eight-string configuration, making it ideal for djent and progressive metal. The Eclipse Custom handles standard drop tunings well but is optimized for conventional six-string metal playing.
What is the key pickup difference?
The Eclipse uses EMG JH Het Set active pickups designed for controlled low end and articulate attack on a six-string platform. The Stef B-8 uses Fluence Reverb active pickups engineered specifically to capture full dynamic range across eight strings without phase issues or artifacts.
Which is better for lead work versus rhythm?
The Eclipse Custom's thin U-contoured neck and 305mm radius excel at both controlled lead and aggressive rhythm on a traditional single-cutaway. The Stef B-8 prioritizes extended-range rhythm and atmospheric tunings over traditional lead work, though eight strings allow for creative melodic possibilities.
Are both guitars suitable for touring musicians?
Yes—both are premium ESP instruments built for professional use. The Eclipse Custom is explicitly designed for touring; the Stef B-8 is built with the same precision craftsmanship and excels for touring musicians who perform progressive and djent material.