What is the gauge range for this 7-string set?

The set features a gauge range starting at .011 for the high E and ending at .064 for the low seventh string. This provides a medium tension suitable for standard or slightly dropped tunings.

What makes the NYXL series different from standard strings?

NYXL strings utilize a high-carbon steel core and a re-engineered wire drawing process. This makes them stronger and more resistant to breaking while providing better tuning stability.

What is the 'fusion twist' procedure mentioned by D'Addario?

The fusion twist is a specialized manufacturing technique applied to the ball-end of the string. It is designed to prevent slippage and improve tuning stability, particularly during heavy tremolo use or bending.

Are these strings suitable for drop tuning?

Yes, the .064 gauge on the seventh string provides enough tension to handle drop tunings effectively. It prevents the low string from becoming too loose or 'floppy' compared to lighter sets.

How does the price of NYXL strings compare to other sets?

The NYXL 7-string set typically retails for approximately £17.00. This is considered a premium price point compared to standard nickel-wound sets, reflecting the advanced materials and longevity.

Do these strings last longer than traditional strings?

According to D'Addario, the NYXL series is designed to last longer and maintain its tonal clarity for a greater duration. The improved manufacturing process helps resist the degradation common in standard wire.

How do these compare to Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?

While both are premium sets, NYXL focuses on a high-carbon steel core for stability and 'fusion twist' technology. Ernie Ball M-Steel strings use a different cobalt-based alloy for output, whereas NYXL emphasizes reliability and bending range.

What is the primary material used in the winding?

These strings are nickel-wound over a high-carbon steel core. The nickel winding provides a familiar feel under the fingers while the core provides the structural enhancements.

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

This specific pack is a 7-string set containing seven individual strings. While you could technically use the first six strings on a 6-string guitar, it is designed for extended-range instruments.

Do these strings settle into tune quickly?

Yes, one of the key features of the NYXL design is that they hold tunings better and settle to pitch faster than traditional sets. This reduces the 'break-in' time required after a fresh string change.

What is the tonal profile of the 11-64 set?

These strings are designed to provide a punchy mid-range and clear highs. The .064 low string ensures that the bass notes remain articulate rather than muffled.

Are these strings good for extreme note bending?

Yes, D'Addario states that these strings are engineered to bend further than standard strings. The increased tensile strength of the NY steel core allows for wider intervals without the risk of snapping.

Gear article

D'Addario NYXL 7-String Nickel Wound (11-64)

The D'Addario NYXL 11-64 is a heavy-duty 7-string electric guitar set designed for stability and durability. Utilising an improved wire drawing process and a unique fusion twist procedure, these strings are engineered to hold tuning better and withstand aggressive bending.

DAddario NYXL 7-String Nickel Wound Medium 11-64

See live prices

Overview

The D'Addario NYXL 7-String Nickel Wound Medium set (11-64) represents a significant shift in string manufacturing technology. Designed specifically for extended-range instruments, this set aims to solve common issues faced by 7-string players, such as tuning instability on the lower strings and breakage during intensive performance. The set is positioned as a premium, revolutionary alternative to standard nickel-wound strings.

Manufacturing and Technology

D'Addario developed the NYXL series by revisiting basic manufacturing processes. The construction involves a re-engineered wire drawing process combined with a 'fusion twist' procedure. This specific engineering approach is intended to increase the tensile strength of the string, allowing it to bend further without snapping and to settle into pitch more quickly than traditional sets. The high-carbon steel core provides a foundation for improved reliability.

Larsen Strings Larsen Cello D String 1/8 Size Medium

Tonal Character and Performance

These strings are designed to offer a higher output and a more pronounced mid-range response compared to standard nickel strings. According to the manufacturer, they 'sound better' by providing a crispness that remains consistent over a longer lifespan. The 11-64 gauge is particularly suited for players who require a firmer tension on the low B string, ensuring that the seventh string does not become muddy or lose definition during heavy riffing.

Target Audience

The Medium 11-64 set is ideal for 7-string guitarists who play genres requiring high stability, such as metal, progressive rock, or jazz. The heavier gauge is particularly beneficial for those who utilize drop-tunings, as the .064 low string maintains sufficient tension. It is a suitable choice for professional musicians who require strings that can endure rigorous touring environments and frequent high-amplitude bending.

Market Comparison

Within the D'Addario catalogue, the NYXL series sits alongside specialized orchestral offerings like the Zyex or Helicore violin strings, representing their top-tier engineering for fretted instruments. When compared to competitors such as the Ernie Ball M-Steel or the Tim Henson Signature Slinky sets, the NYXL 11-64 focuses heavily on pitch stability and mechanical reliability as its primary selling points.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge range for this 7-string set?: The set features a gauge range starting at .011 for the high E and ending at .064 for the low seventh string. This provides a medium tension suitable for standard or slightly dropped tunings.
What makes the NYXL series different from standard strings?: NYXL strings utilize a high-carbon steel core and a re-engineered wire drawing process. This makes them stronger and more resistant to breaking while providing better tuning stability.
What is the 'fusion twist' procedure mentioned by D'Addario?: The fusion twist is a specialized manufacturing technique applied to the ball-end of the string. It is designed to prevent slippage and improve tuning stability, particularly during heavy tremolo use or bending.
Are these strings suitable for drop tuning?: Yes, the .064 gauge on the seventh string provides enough tension to handle drop tunings effectively. It prevents the low string from becoming too loose or 'floppy' compared to lighter sets.
How does the price of NYXL strings compare to other sets?: The NYXL 7-string set typically retails for approximately £17.00. This is considered a premium price point compared to standard nickel-wound sets, reflecting the advanced materials and longevity.
Do these strings last longer than traditional strings?: According to D'Addario, the NYXL series is designed to last longer and maintain its tonal clarity for a greater duration. The improved manufacturing process helps resist the degradation common in standard wire.
How do these compare to Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?: While both are premium sets, NYXL focuses on a high-carbon steel core for stability and 'fusion twist' technology. Ernie Ball M-Steel strings use a different cobalt-based alloy for output, whereas NYXL emphasizes reliability and bending range.
What is the primary material used in the winding?: These strings are nickel-wound over a high-carbon steel core. The nickel winding provides a familiar feel under the fingers while the core provides the structural enhancements.
Can these be used on a standard 6-string guitar?: This specific pack is a 7-string set containing seven individual strings. While you could technically use the first six strings on a 6-string guitar, it is designed for extended-range instruments.
Do these strings settle into tune quickly?: Yes, one of the key features of the NYXL design is that they hold tunings better and settle to pitch faster than traditional sets. This reduces the 'break-in' time required after a fresh string change.
What is the tonal profile of the 11-64 set?: These strings are designed to provide a punchy mid-range and clear highs. The .064 low string ensures that the bass notes remain articulate rather than muffled.
Are these strings good for extreme note bending?: Yes, D'Addario states that these strings are engineered to bend further than standard strings. The increased tensile strength of the NY steel core allows for wider intervals without the risk of snapping.