+1 Carvin or Jackson. I've no opinion on actual ESPs, since the only thing I've played are low/mid level LTDs. For that price you could also go Agile semi-custom shop or build a Warmoth to your personal specs.
As you probably know the PRS trem is really stable for a non-locking.
For new, Carvin or Jackson for me, but I'm not sure what the QC on Jacksons in this range are these days.
Carvin could have a carved top, depending on the model. Their QC is also close to that of PRS in my experience (I've owned 3 USA PRS and 3 Carvin, played more of each).
EDIT: Years ago I had a hardtail Cu22 in W/F. I couldn't get on with the bridge or neck profile but it was the best sounding guitar that I've ever owned. I regret getting rid of it!
The ESP Horizon FR-II arrived last night. I couldn't put it down. In all honesty it's the finest playing guitar I've ever put my hands on, saying that I really LOVE my PRS. Having played tons of guitars in the past 20+ years It has the neck I was looking for. Slightly thicker than an Ibanez much thinner than my PRS. It's a keeper. I'll post new NGD thread some other time.