I've owned ESP rods. It has been a few years since I used those rods but I don't recall any issues with casting distance using 2# test line. I did not like the guides they used but that is another story. Micro guides are not hurting your casting distance...what size line are you using? I own 2 dozen rods that have micro guides, many use 3.5mm guides and a few are 3mm in diameter and they all cast fine...the guides on ESP rods are a lot bigger than 3mm. Just curious as to the line you are using.
Regards