EIIECQMSTBCSB-B vs EIIVIPERBLK-B — Compare
ESP E-II Eclipse QM STBCSB See Through Black Cherry Sunburst Quilted B-Stock vs ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock
Both are professional-grade ESP E-II guitars built for metal and hard rock, but the Eclipse QM emphasizes balanced tone and visual appeal with a quilted maple top, while the Viper prioritizes aggressive articulation and playability versatility with active pickups and 24 frets. Choose the Eclipse QM if you value traditional aesthetics and midrange warmth; pick the Viper if you want maximum fret access, coil-tap switching, and high-output punch.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP E-II Eclipse QM STBCSB See Through Black Cherry Sunburst Quilted B-Stock
ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock
Specs side by side
| ESP E-II Eclipse QM STBCSB See Through Black Cherry Sunburst Quilted B-Stock | ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,679.20 | $1,999.00 |
| Brand | ESP | ESP |
| Series | ESP E-II Eclipse | ESP E-II Viper |
| Body | — | Explorer |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | — | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Ebony |
| Neck | — | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | — | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | 2024 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose ESP E-II Eclipse QM STBCSB See Through Black Cherry Sunburst Quilted B-Stock
- ✓ Quilted maple top with white binding delivers striking visual depth under stage lights
- ✓ EMG 81/60 passive pickup pairing offers balanced, articulate high-gain tone
- ✓ 22 extra-jumbo frets adequate for most tunings and playing styles
- ✓ Simpler 3-way electronics layout for straightforward tonal control
Why choose ESP E-II Viper Black Electric Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ 24 extra-jumbo frets provide maximum fingerboard access for extended techniques and drop tunings
- ✓ Active EMG 66TW and 57TW pickups with coil-tap pull controls deliver high-output versatility without menu complexity
- ✓ 305mm radius fingerboard optimized for fast, aggressive playing and minimal fret noise
- ✓ B-stock pricing on same professional construction as new inventory
Frequently asked questions
What is the practical difference between 22 and 24 extra-jumbo frets?
The Viper's 24 frets extend playable range by two full semitones at the high end, giving access to higher notes without position shifts. Both support extreme drop tunings, but the Viper offers more melodic range in the ultra-high register. This matters most for lead work and extended techniques.
How do the pickup systems differ tonally?
The Eclipse QM uses passive EMG 81/60 pickups, which deliver warm, balanced midrange ideal for traditional metal tones. The Viper's active EMG 66TW/57TW with coil-tap offer higher output, tighter articulation, and switchable single-coil voices for modern, aggressive clarity. Active pickups require battery power; passives do not.
Which is better for chords versus lead playing?
The Eclipse QM's balanced passive tone and simpler controls suit both equally well. The Viper's 24 frets, tighter radius, and high-output active pickups lean slightly toward fast lead work and aggressive single-note clarity, though both handle rhythm comfortably.
Does the B-stock label mean either guitar is inferior?
B-stock indicates cosmetic imperfections or minor packaging damage, not structural or tonal issues. Both use identical professional construction methods. The Viper's B-stock status simply reflects a price reduction on identical playability and electronics as new units.