Thanks for that perspective, SF. I'm a professional hack ...lol! But even in my non-pro/non-paid use over the years, I've found nothing better in a live band situation than the ES (V1.3 best for me, 1.2 is still plenty good and kicks butt over UST and USB pups ...no experience with ES2). Particularly when there's a heavy drummer or bassist, or otherwise loud stage (floor wedges are always a sonic obstacle), the ES simply sounds right and works perfectly ...every time!
Edward