Several guitar string brands are on the market today. This can make it difficult to pick which strings to buy.
Even after finding a brand, you have to keep up with the names of their products, which are hard to distinguish. D’Addario is one such example.
You might know them as a top manufacturer of quality musical instruments.
But how do you ascertain the difference between their string series, like the XT and XS series? Is there an actual distinction?
If you’re contemplating which of these two strings is perfect for your guitar, read on to find out.
Contents
The XT and The XS
D’Addario XT and XS are two different series of guitar strings marketed by D’Addario. The XS is described by D’addario as ‘the most innovative coated strings ever created’.
Daddario’s XS uses ultra-thin coating to present a premium coated product to players who desire it. On the other hand, the XT replaced the popular EXP line.
They utilize a high-carbon steel core wire, which provides improved strength and tuning stability.
Both series are designed to provide enhanced durability and longer lifespan compared to standard strings.
However, they have some differences in terms of construction and features. Each string addresses a certain market demand.
The breakdown of the components of each series above is intended to help you make an informed decision. Let’s compare D’Addario XT and XS strings
Construction
- The XT series features a high-carbon steel core with advanced corrosion-resistant treatment. The strings are wrapped with D’Addario’s XT coating, which helps to protect against corrosion and prolong the string life.
- The XS series also has a high-carbon steel core. But, it incorporates an advanced technology known as the fusion twist process. This process involves twisting the outer wire wrap, creating a more textured surface. The strings are then treated with D’Addario’s exclusive Fusion Twist coating, offering enhanced durability and tone.
Coating Technology
- XT strings utilize the XT coating, which protects against corrosion and other elements that can cause premature string aging. The coating is designed to be ultra-thin, preserving the natural feel and tone of the strings.
- XS strings feature the Fusion Twist coating. This combines microscopically textured strings with an ultra-thin coating. The coating enhances longevity and provides a smooth feel while maintaining the strings’ natural tone.
Longevity
- The XT series is known for its extended lifespan compared to regular uncoated strings. It is said that the XT strings can offer up to three times more life compared to uncoated strings. The corrosion-resistant treatment and coating contribute to a longer-lasting string life. This makes them ideal for players who prioritize durability and consistent performance. So, you can be assured that they would survive frequent playing or string bending.
- The XS series is also designed to offer a longer lifespan. They claim to offer up to four times more life compared to traditional uncoated strings. The Fusion Twist coating, combined with the textured surface, helps to prevent grime buildup. It prevents corrosion, ensuring the strings last longer while maintaining their tone and feel.
Tone
- XT strings aim to deliver a balanced and natural tone that is similar to uncoated strings. The thin coating allows the strings to vibrate freely, resulting in good clarity and projection.
- XS strings offer a rich and vibrant tone while providing the durability of coated strings. The Fusion Twist coating and textured surface contribute to enhanced resonance and improved tone.
Overall Feel and Playability
- XT strings are designed to have a natural feel and playability similar to uncoated strings. The thin coating does not add significant bulk to the strings, allowing for comfortable playing and smooth bending.
- D’Addario XS strings also aim to provide a natural feel. The Fusion Twist coating in XS strings provides a natural feel and tone. It is as if you were playing uncoated strings, while still offering the benefits of enhanced longevity. However, the fusion twist coating and the textured surface might offer a slightly different experience compared to the XT strings. Some players find the texture enhances grip and control while playing.
Compatible Guitar Options
- The XT series is available for various types of guitars, including electric, acoustic, and bass. It offers a wide range of gauges and string sets to suit different playing styles and preferences.
- The XS series is primarily focused on acoustic guitars. It offers options for both steel-string and nylon-string acoustic guitars. For a while, it didn’t have electric or bass guitar strings in the XS lineup. In 2022, It launched a new electric guitar strings line that uses comparable cutting-edge technology. It also uses D’Addario’s proprietary dispersion polymer coating from the XT series. All of this results in indistinguishable differences in feel and tone, but improved performance.
Price and Affordability
- XT strings are generally priced slightly higher than regular uncoated strings. This is primarily due to the added durability and longevity they provide. However, they are still more affordable compared to some other coated string options in the market.
- The XS strings are positioned as a premium product in D’Addario’s lineup. For this reason, they tend to have a higher price point compared to the XT series. The advanced coating technology and construction contribute to the increased cost.
String Options
Both series are available in different gauges for guitars.
- The XT has about six to seven string gauges. The gauges range from light to medium to heavy, allowing players to find the right balance of tone and feel.
- The D’Addario XS guitar strings are offered in six-string gauges. The 09-42 Super Light through to 11-49 Medium for electric guitars.
Availability in the Market
- XT strings have been available since 2020 and have gained popularity among guitarists. They can be found in many music stores, both online and offline.
- XS strings were introduced more recently in 2021. Therefore, their availability may vary depending on the region and specific guitar type. It’s advisable to check with local music stores or online retailers to see if they carry the XS series.
Finally, Which D’Addario String Should You Go For?
The choice between D’Addario XT and XS strings comes down to a few considerations. Both series provide extended lifespans and durability.
The D’Addario XT and XS strings feature advanced coatings. These are designed to prolong string life, improve tuning stability, and maintain tonal quality.
The slight variations lie in the specific coating technology used and the range of available models.
Clearly, the XT and XS strings aim to address the common challenges faced by guitarists.
You don’t have to worry about string corrosion, loss of tone, and shorter string life.
By incorporating advanced coatings, D’Addario seeks to provide players with strings that offer extended durability.
It has improved tuning stability and maintains a consistent sound quality over time.
When choosing between XS and XT, consider the following factors:
Do you prefer longer-lasting strings and don’t mind a slightly thicker coating? XS strings might be a good fit.
However, If you want a balance between string longevity and a thinner coating, XT strings could be a suitable choice.
If you’re looking for strings that closely resemble the tone and feel of uncoated strings, XS might be more appealing.
For a crisp and vibrant tone with a comfortable playing experience, XT strings could be a better option.
Moreover, you could try out both types of strings to determine which one suits your playing style and tonal preferences.
Your taste will determine which strings are right for you, so experimenting with both options is highly recommended.
