I also have a ESP M-1 (ntb) that is amazing ..I would put it against any Jackson,Schector,Ibanez..ect..again... custom shop quality.
of course you will pay for that quality, so if you are just starting out it's not worth the money,,your best off in the $600 range like schector but try it before you buy it,, if possible.
If there is ANYTHING wrong with a new ESP they will fix it , no questions asked.