If you've been a guitar player for a while, you're probably familiar with D'Addario strings, one of the most popular string brands on the market. And if you're a D'Addario fan, you may have heard of their four main electric guitar string lines: XL, NYXL, XS, and XT. But what's the difference between these four lines? Let's take a closer look.
XL Electric Guitar Strings
D'Addario's XL line is their flagship electric guitar string set. They've been around for decades and are well-loved by players of all genres. XL strings are made from nickel-plated steel, which gives them a bright, balanced tone with plenty of sustain. They come in a variety of gauges, from super light to extra heavy, so you can find the right set for your playing style.
XL strings are also known for their durability. They're a great choice for players who want reliable, long-lasting strings that sound great without breaking the bank.
NYXL Electric Guitar Strings
D'Addario's NYXL line is a newer addition to their electric guitar string lineup. They were introduced in 2016 and quickly became popular among players of all genres. NYXL strings are made from a high-carbon steel alloy that D'Addario developed specifically for this line.
The high-carbon steel gives NYXL strings a few key advantages over XL strings. First, they're more resistant to breakage, which is great news for players who play hard and break strings frequently. Second, they have a brighter, more focused tone than XL strings. This is due in part to the fact that the high-carbon steel is stronger and more consistent than nickel-plated steel. NYXL strings also feature D'Addario's Fusion Twist technology, which involves twisting the core and wrap wires together at the ball end of the string. This creates a stronger bond between the two wires, which enhances tuning stability and sustain.
XS Electric Guitar Strings
D'Addario's XS line is their latest innovation in electric guitar strings. XS strings are made from a proprietary high-carbon steel alloy, like the NYXL line, but they also feature a thin coating that protects the strings from corrosion and wear. The XS coating is incredibly thin, which means it doesn't affect the tone of the strings in the way that thicker coatings can.
XS strings are also designed to be more comfortable to play than other strings. They feature a new wire drawing process that results in a smoother surface, which reduces finger squeak and makes string bends easier. They also have a slightly smaller diameter than other strings, which makes them feel more "bendy" under your fingers.
XT Electric Guitar Strings
D'Addario's XT line is another recent addition to their electric guitar string lineup. XT strings are also made from a high-carbon steel alloy, like the NYXL and XS lines, but they feature a new coating that's designed to last even longer than the coating on XL strings.
The XT coating is thicker than the XS coating, but it's still thin enough that it doesn't affect the tone of the strings. It's also designed to be more resistant to flaking and peeling than other coatings, which means your strings will last longer and stay looking new for longer.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, which set of strings should you choose: XL, NYXL, XS, or XT? The answer, as with most things in music, is that it depends on your personal preference. My personal preference is NYXL, simply because I love the way that they sound and feel. I used XL's for years and years, but I was totally hooked on NYXL's once I tried them for the first time. That said, all of these strings have their pros and cons, and it's up to you to make your own call. However, if you're looking for a recommendation on strings, feel free to send me a message anytime!