ESP Company Origins
ESP Guitars was established in 1975 in Tokyo as a custom shop specializing in replacement parts and high-end instruments for professional players. The company expanded into full guitar and bass production during the 1980s, gaining recognition for quality control and attention to player specifications.
Development of the E-II Line
The E-II series represents ESP’s current Japanese production tier, launched after the original ESP and Edwards lines to offer consistent factory-built instruments with premium specifications. These basses use the same luthiery standards as custom shop models while maintaining tighter tolerances and modern features such as stainless steel frets and locking tuners.
Notable Players
ESP E-II basses have been adopted by working professionals including session players and touring musicians in metal and fusion acts who require reliable high-output instruments for both stage and studio use.
