Knuckled E-II

New for 2018, ESP's E-II offers selected models with Bare Knuckle pickups. Seen above is the M-II NT with a pair of Aftermath humbuckers.

The NT 7 has Warpigs in there. Also new for 2018, selected models are offered with Hipshot fixed bridges.

Eclipsing the LP

The ESP NT model has been Gus G's preferred guitar. This is what Gus has to say about it:

But I've got so used to playing with the NT shape that if I pick up any other guitar it feels strange now.

Subsequently, the signature EC model was conceived when he became Ozzy's guitarist; why was it necessary? Apparently, Ozzy asked Gus if he plays the Les Paul because there is a track record of his guitarists being Les Paul players. The answer to this query reflected why Gus G sticks to ESP:

..., I hate Les Pauls.

But as a compromise, Gus had ESP make him the EC model we see above. So now we know what went on. In my opinion, if you respect the player, let him use whatever he wants.