What gauges are included in the D'Addario EXL120BT set?

The set includes gauges .009, .012, .015, .022, .030, and .040. These have been specifically chosen to provide a balanced tension feel.

What does 'Balanced Tension' mean for these strings?

It means the gauges are mathematically optimised so that each string requires a similar amount of force to press or bend. This creates a more consistent feel across the entire fretboard compared to standard sets.

What is the primary material used in these strings?

They are made of nickel-plated steel wound around a high-carbon steel core. This is a standard construction for electric guitar strings, valued for its tone and magnetic properties.

Where are D'Addario EXL120BT strings manufactured?

These strings are made in the USA. The manufacturer emphasises the use of high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity.

How would you describe the tonal character of this set?

The set is described as having a particularly bright quality. It is designed to deliver a full, rich tone with enough sharpness to make lead guitar solos stand out.

Is this set suitable for lead guitarists?

Yes, it is specifically recommended for lead guitarists due to its bright tone and the way the balanced tension responds to string bending.

How does the price of the EXL120BT compare to other strings?

The typical price is approximately GBP 7.00. This makes them an affordable option for most players seeking professional-grade strings.

What is the difference between these and the Ernie Ball M-Steel sets?

The EXL120BT is a 9-40 super light set focused on balanced tension. The Ernie Ball M-Steel 2921 is a 10-46 set, which is heavier and uses a different alloy for higher output.

Are these strings durable?

D'Addario describes these strings as tough, durable, and long-lasting. The use of high-quality materials is intended to reduce the frequency of string changes.

How do these compare to the Tim Henson Signature Slinky strings?

The Tim Henson strings use a custom 9.5-46 gauge range. The EXL120BT is lighter overall (ending at .040) and focuses specifically on even tension across all strings.

Can these strings be used on acoustic guitars?

No, these are nickel-wound strings designed specifically for electric guitars. They rely on magnetic pickups to translate the string vibration into sound.

Why would a player choose 'Super Light' gauges like 9-40?

Players choose these gauges for easier playability and less strain on the fingers. The lighter tension allows for effortless bending and faster movement across the neck.

Gear article

D'Addario EXL120BT Nickel Wound Super Light Balanced Tension Strings

The D'Addario EXL120BT is a nickel-wound electric guitar string set featuring a 'Super Light' gauge range from .009 to .040. It is specifically engineered with mathematically optimised tension to provide a consistent feel and even resistance across all six strings.

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Background and Design

D'Addario developed the Balanced Tension (BT) series to address the uneven resistance felt when moving between strings in traditional sets. While standard sets often have significant variances in tension between adjacent strings, the EXL120BT set utilizes mathematically optimised gauges to ensure that the force required to fret or bend each string is nearly identical. This specific set is manufactured in the USA using high-quality materials, intended for long-lasting performance and durability.

Technical Specifications

The EXL120BT set consists of six strings with gauges measuring .009, .012, .015, .022, .030, and .040. The construction features a nickel-plated steel wrap wire wound over a high-carbon steel core. This combination is designed to produce a rich, full tone while maintaining a bright sonic character that is highly effective for lead guitar playing.

Playability and Sound

The primary benefit of the Balanced Tension design is its response to string bending and vibrato. Because the tension is distributed evenly, players can expect a more predictable feel across the fretboard. Sonically, these strings are described as having a particularly bright quality, providing the sharpness and clarity needed for solos to cut through a mix. The nickel-wound construction balances this brightness with a full-bodied low end.

Target User

These strings are primarily aimed at electric guitarists who prefer a 'Super Light' touch but desire a more uniform tactile experience. They are particularly suited for lead guitarists who perform frequent technical maneuvers like multi-step bends. The balanced nature of the set also makes them a suitable choice for players who find traditional sets feel 'loose' on the bottom strings or 'tight' on the top strings.

Market Comparison

Within the D'Addario catalogue, the EXL120BT sits alongside other specialised products such as the Zyex or Helicore series for orchestral instruments. Compared to alternative electric guitar sets like the Ernie Ball Regular Slinky M-Steel (10-46) or the Tim Henson Signature Slinky (9.5-46), the EXL120BT offers a lighter overall tension and a specific focus on mathematical balance rather than just custom gauge selections. While competitors like Dunlop or Thomastik offer various gauge ranges, the D'Addario BT series is distinct for its focus on linear tension across the set.

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Frequently asked questions

What gauges are included in the D'Addario EXL120BT set?: The set includes gauges .009, .012, .015, .022, .030, and .040. These have been specifically chosen to provide a balanced tension feel.
What does 'Balanced Tension' mean for these strings?: It means the gauges are mathematically optimised so that each string requires a similar amount of force to press or bend. This creates a more consistent feel across the entire fretboard compared to standard sets.
What is the primary material used in these strings?: They are made of nickel-plated steel wound around a high-carbon steel core. This is a standard construction for electric guitar strings, valued for its tone and magnetic properties.
Where are D'Addario EXL120BT strings manufactured?: These strings are made in the USA. The manufacturer emphasises the use of high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity.
How would you describe the tonal character of this set?: The set is described as having a particularly bright quality. It is designed to deliver a full, rich tone with enough sharpness to make lead guitar solos stand out.
Is this set suitable for lead guitarists?: Yes, it is specifically recommended for lead guitarists due to its bright tone and the way the balanced tension responds to string bending.
How does the price of the EXL120BT compare to other strings?: The typical price is approximately GBP 7.00. This makes them an affordable option for most players seeking professional-grade strings.
What is the difference between these and the Ernie Ball M-Steel sets?: The EXL120BT is a 9-40 super light set focused on balanced tension. The Ernie Ball M-Steel 2921 is a 10-46 set, which is heavier and uses a different alloy for higher output.
Are these strings durable?: D'Addario describes these strings as tough, durable, and long-lasting. The use of high-quality materials is intended to reduce the frequency of string changes.
How do these compare to the Tim Henson Signature Slinky strings?: The Tim Henson strings use a custom 9.5-46 gauge range. The EXL120BT is lighter overall (ending at .040) and focuses specifically on even tension across all strings.
Can these strings be used on acoustic guitars?: No, these are nickel-wound strings designed specifically for electric guitars. They rely on magnetic pickups to translate the string vibration into sound.
Why would a player choose 'Super Light' gauges like 9-40?: Players choose these gauges for easier playability and less strain on the fingers. The lighter tension allows for effortless bending and faster movement across the neck.