Thicker string choices for D'Addario XS

[yanlin]

I migrated from Elixir Nanowebs to D'Addario XS due to the Elixir being stiff to bend (even though the tension is the same, yes, yes, I know). I play 10s and unfortunately Elixir doesn't have 9.5s and their 9s feel too floppy.

So far I'm happy with D'Addario XS 10-46, but I'm trying to restring my 7 string as well. I'd need a 60, but XS doesn't have it (they only go up to 52).

Which one of the following would match better with XS:

1. NYXL, which is basically the uncoated version
2. XT, which is the less coated (kinda like Cleartone)
3. Elixir Optiweb. From what I gather the coating is similar to XS?

Thoughts?

 

[Crungy]

I haven't tried any of the strings you're asking about, wish I could help!

Have you tried Ernie Ball Cobalts? They stay bright sounding longer than any non coated string I've tried and have gauges closer to what you want.

 

[Emperoff]

You described perfectly my chore. The Optiwebs also suffer for the increased tension issue (so no, they're not like the XS). Elixir just needs to release godamn 9.5 sets already.

If every person complaining about it sent them an email asking for them, maybe we'll get something...

 

[CleansingCarnage]

Unfortunately there just isn't much out there when it comes to coated 7 string sets.

 

[Grindspine]

10-56 Regular Light 7-String, XS Nickel Electric Guitar Strings | XSE1056 | D'Addario

XS Nickel coated electric guitar strings provide the longest life of any D’Addario electric guitar string. Made for 7-string guitars, this 10-56 Regular Light set takes our most popular gauge & adds an additional bass string. Shop now.

www.daddario.com

XS does have seven string sets with a low 56.

10-59 Regular Light Gauge XT Nickel Coated 7-String Electric Guitar Strings | XTE1059 | D'Addario

XT Nickel coated electric guitar strings offer enhanced break resistance, better pitch stability, & longer-lasting performance than standard electric strings. Made for 7-string guitars, this 10-59 Regular Light gauge set takes our most popular XT gauge & adds an additional bass string. Shop now.

www.daddario.com

XT has a low 59 on its seven string set.

 

[Emperoff]

What about an XS set with a 059 Elixir Optiweb for the low B? Not the cheapest alternative, but you'll appreciate the extra tightness of the Elixir and you won't be doing much bendings there.

 

[BillCartESP]

Would mixing brands like that tonally match? I’ve often wondered about that.

 

[Chri]

Would mixing brands like that tonally match? I’ve often wondered about that.

It usually a negligible difference. Especially when under high gain and all strings are properly broken in.

 

[BillCartESP]

That’s good to know. Don’t have a complete set for a few tunings. But I do have 7&8 string nyxl and 6 string xl sets I can mix until I can afford to put in a string order. Gonna try this. My ocd is already going off. Lol.