D'Addario XL Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings

D'Addario XL Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings

D'Addario XL Nickel Wound strings are among the most widely used electric guitar strings in the world. Known for their bright, balanced tone, durable build, and smooth playability, these strings are a favorite for players of all styles—from rock and blues to metal and fusion. Crafted with a precision-engineered hexagonal NY Steel core and nickel-plated steel wrap wire, the XL series offers superior intonation, sustain, and tuning stability.

General Features Across All Models:

? Nickel-Plated Steel Wrap Wire – Produces a balanced tone with bright highs, punchy mids, and defined lows.
? Hexagonal NY Steel Core – Provides exceptional tuning stability, break resistance, and long-lasting performance.
? Versatile for All Genres – Suitable for rock, blues, metal, fusion, jazz, and more.
? Excellent String Longevity – Built to withstand intense playing while maintaining tone clarity.
? Consistent Feel and Performance – Manufactured with strict quality control for reliable performance every time.

Gauge-Specific Details

EXL120 – Super Light Gauge (.009-.042)

D'Addario’s most popular super-light gauge set, EXL120s are perfect for players who love fast solos, easy bends, and a crisp, bright tone. These are ideal for shredders and lead guitarists who require effortless playability.
Best For: Lead players, fast fretwork, reduced finger fatigue.

Gauges: .009 (E), .011 (B), .016 (G), .024 (D), .032 (A), .042 (E)

EXL110 – Regular Light Gauge (.010-.046)

The most popular D’Addario XL set, EXL110s offer the perfect balance of playability and full-bodied tone. A versatile choice that suits rhythm and lead players alike, these strings deliver clear highs, punchy mids, and well-rounded bass response.
Best For: All-purpose playing, balanced feel, clarity and sustain.

Gauges: .010 (E), .013 (B), .017 (G), .026 (D), .036 (A), .046 (E)

EXL115 – Medium Gauge (.011-.049)

Designed for players who prefer a slightly heavier gauge for fuller tone and enhanced sustain. The EXL115s offer increased resistance for more control and are ideal for blues, rock, and players who like a firmer string tension.
Best For: Blues, rock, rhythm players who need a stronger attack.

Gauges: .011 (E), .014 (B), .018 (G), .028 (D), .038 (A), .049 (E)

EXL115W – Medium Gauge with Wound Third (.011-.049)

Similar to the EXL115 set but with a wound third (G) string for increased sustain, stability, and a slightly mellower tone. A favorite among jazz and blues players who need a tighter feel in their chords and lead lines.
Best For: Jazz, blues, and players who prefer a wound third for smoother tension balance.

Gauges: .011 (E), .014 (B), .021W (G), .028 (D), .038 (A), .049 (E)

EXL120-7 – 7-String Super Light (.009-.054)

The extended 7-string version of EXL120, this set offers the same bright tone and smooth feel with an added low B string. Ideal for shredders, progressive rock, and metal players who need clarity on the extended range.
Best For: Fast lead work, modern rock, metal, and progressive players.

Gauges: .009 (E), .011 (B), .016 (G), .024 (D), .032 (A), .042 (E), .054 (B)

EXL110-7 – 7-String Regular Light (.010-.059)

The 7-string equivalent of EXL110, providing a balanced feel across all seven strings. This set is great for players who want an extended low range while maintaining clarity and articulation in standard tuning.
Best For: Balanced tone, rock, blues, and metal with extra low-end depth.

Gauges: .010 (E), .013 (B), .017 (G), .026 (D), .036 (A), .046 (E), .059 (B)

EXL120-8 – 8-String Super Light (.009-.065)

A super-light gauge designed for 8-string guitars, providing easy bending and fluid playability while maintaining tight low-end articulation. Perfect for players in djent, metal, and modern progressive styles who need extended clarity.
Best For: Djent, metal, progressive guitarists using an 8-string setup.

Gauges: .009 (E), .011 (B), .016 (G), .024 (D), .032 (A), .042 (E), .054 (B), .065 (F#)

EXL140-8 – 8-String Light Top/Heavy Bottom (.010-.074)

For those who want to maintain a light top for effortless solos while reinforcing the low end with heavier bass strings. This set is built for extended-range players who need a mix of agility and power.
Best For: Low-tuned chording, high-gain leads, metal, and progressive genres.

Gauges: .010 (E), .013 (B), .017 (G), .030 (D), .042 (A), .054 (E), .064 (B), .074 (F#)

Why Choose D'Addario XL Electric Guitar Strings?

• Iconic Tone – Nickel-plated steel wrap delivers legendary bright and clear tone.
• Tuning Stability – NY Steel hex core ensures strings stay in tune longer.
• Smooth Playability – Reliable feel for effortless bends and chord transitions.
• Versatile Gauges – Available for standard, 7-string, and 8-string configurations.

Specifications Recap: