What instruments are these strings designed for?

These strings are specifically designed for 6-string multiscale bass guitars, accommodating the varying scale lengths across the fretboard.

What is the gauge range for this 6-string set?

The set uses a Hybrid Light gauge profile, ranging from .032 for the highest string to .130 for the lowest string.

What is the benefit of the XS coating?

The ultra-thin XS coating protects the strings from oils and debris, allowing the tone to stay consistent for a longer period compared to uncoated strings.

What material is used for the string core?

The strings utilize NY High Carbon Steel cores, which are engineered for increased break strength and improved tuning stability.

How does the feel of XS strings compare to standard nickel strings?

The XS coating provides a smooth and fast feel under the fingers, reducing friction while maintaining the tactile response of traditional nickel-plated steel.

Do these strings lose their brightness because of the coating?

No, they are designed to provide a clear, punchy response with strong harmonics, retaining the brightness associated with nickel-plated steel.

What is the typical price range for this string set?

In the United Kingdom, these premium strings typically retail for approximately £79.

Why is 'High Carbon Steel' important for bass strings?

High carbon steel provides higher tensile strength, which helps the strings stay in tune better and resist snapping under heavy playing styles.

Is the wrap wire reformulated?

Yes, D'Addario uses a reformulated nickel-plated steel wrap wire in the XS series to enhance the tonal clarity and longevity.

How does the tension profile affect playability?

The Hybrid Light tension profile is designed to keep the low end defined while ensuring the higher strings remain responsive for melodic playing.

Can these be used on a standard 6-string bass?

While designed for multiscale instruments, they can fit many 6-string basses, but players should verify the scale length compatibility for the .130 string.

How does D'Addario describe the harmonic response of these strings?

The manufacturer describes the response as clear and punchy with strong harmonics, avoiding the 'dead' sound sometimes found in coated strings.

Gear article

D'Addario XS Nickel Plated Steel Bass Strings Multi Scale 6-String 32–130

The D'Addario XS Nickel Plated Steel Multi Scale 6-string set is a premium coated string series designed specifically for long-scale and multiscale bass guitars. Featuring an ultra-thin protective film and NY High Carbon Steel cores, these strings provide enhanced durability and tuning stability for 6-string bassists.

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Overview

The D'Addario XS Nickel Plated Steel Bass Strings are engineered for the specific demands of modern 6-string multiscale instruments. This 'Hybrid Light' set, ranging from .032 to .130, balances the tension across the extended range of a multiscale fretboard. The primary innovation of the XS series is the ultra-thin coating applied to the wrap wire, which is designed to protect the string from contaminants while maintaining the tactile response of a traditional uncoated string.

Technical Construction and Materials

At the heart of each string is an NY High Carbon Steel core, a material proprietary to D'Addario intended to improve break strength and ensure superior tuning stability compared to standard steel alloys. The core is wrapped with a reformulated nickel-plated steel wire. The XS treatment covers the entire string with an incredibly thin film, protecting the gaps between windings where dirt and oils typically accumulate, thereby extending the life of the string's tonal clarity.

Tonal Character and Playability

These strings are designed to deliver a clear, punchy response characterized by strong harmonics. Unlike some heavily coated strings that can sound muffled, the XS series aims to retain the familiar character of nickel-plated steel. The coating provides a smooth, fast feel under the fingers, reducing finger noise and friction, which is particularly beneficial for the complex fretwork often performed on 6-string basses.

Suitability and Performance

This specific gauge (.032–.130) is tailored for players who require a defined low end on their B-string without sacrificing the responsiveness and brightness of the higher strings. It is particularly suited for professional recording and live performance environments where consistent tone over a long period is essential. The multiscale design ensures that the tension is appropriate for the varying scale lengths of modern ergonomic basses.

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Frequently asked questions

What instruments are these strings designed for?: These strings are specifically designed for 6-string multiscale bass guitars, accommodating the varying scale lengths across the fretboard.
What is the gauge range for this 6-string set?: The set uses a Hybrid Light gauge profile, ranging from .032 for the highest string to .130 for the lowest string.
What is the benefit of the XS coating?: The ultra-thin XS coating protects the strings from oils and debris, allowing the tone to stay consistent for a longer period compared to uncoated strings.
What material is used for the string core?: The strings utilize NY High Carbon Steel cores, which are engineered for increased break strength and improved tuning stability.
How does the feel of XS strings compare to standard nickel strings?: The XS coating provides a smooth and fast feel under the fingers, reducing friction while maintaining the tactile response of traditional nickel-plated steel.
Do these strings lose their brightness because of the coating?: No, they are designed to provide a clear, punchy response with strong harmonics, retaining the brightness associated with nickel-plated steel.
What is the typical price range for this string set?: In the United Kingdom, these premium strings typically retail for approximately £79.
Why is 'High Carbon Steel' important for bass strings?: High carbon steel provides higher tensile strength, which helps the strings stay in tune better and resist snapping under heavy playing styles.
Is the wrap wire reformulated?: Yes, D'Addario uses a reformulated nickel-plated steel wrap wire in the XS series to enhance the tonal clarity and longevity.
How does the tension profile affect playability?: The Hybrid Light tension profile is designed to keep the low end defined while ensuring the higher strings remain responsive for melodic playing.
Can these be used on a standard 6-string bass?: While designed for multiscale instruments, they can fit many 6-string basses, but players should verify the scale length compatibility for the .130 string.
How does D'Addario describe the harmonic response of these strings?: The manufacturer describes the response as clear and punchy with strong harmonics, avoiding the 'dead' sound sometimes found in coated strings.