What is the specific gauge range for the XSAPB1356 set?

The XSAPB1356 is a medium-gauge set ranging from .013 on the high E string to .056 on the low E string. The full gauges are .013, .017, .026, .035, .045, and .056.

What makes the XS coating different from other D'Addario strings?

The XS series features an ultra-thin film coating on every wound string and a unique polymer treatment on the plain steels. This is D'Addario's most innovative protection system, designed for a smoother feel and maximum lifespan.

What is Fusion Twist technology?

Fusion Twist is an exclusive D'Addario design that prevents the string from slipping at the ball-end. This technology improves tuning stability and increases the overall strength of the string.

What material is used for the winding of these strings?

The strings are wound with Phosphor Bronze. This alloy is traditional for acoustic guitars and is known for providing a balance of warmth and brightness.

Are the plain steel strings coated in this set?

The plain steel strings in the XS set are not film-coated like the wound strings; instead, they receive a unique polymer treatment. This ensures that the entire set has a premium level of protection against corrosion.

How does the price of XS strings compare to standard strings?

The XSAPB1356 typically retails around £13.00, which is higher than standard uncoated strings. This reflects the added cost of the ultra-thin film coating and the extended lifespan it provides.

Who is the XSAPB1356 set best suited for?

This set is ideal for acoustic guitarists who want a medium-tension feel and long-lasting tone. It is particularly useful for players who suffer from dull tone or frequent string breakages.

Does the coating affect the sound of the phosphor bronze?

While all coatings have a slight dampening effect, the XS film is engineered to be ultra-thin to preserve the natural phosphor bronze character. It aims to maintain a crisp, vibrant tone for a much longer period than uncoated strings.

How does the feel of the XS strings compare to other coated strings?

D'Addario describes the feel of the XS series as 'smoother than ever before.' The film is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible while providing a slick surface that reduces finger noise.

Can these strings be used on a concert ukulele or violin?

No, these are specifically designed for 6-string acoustic guitars. Instruments like ukuleles or violins require specific sets such as Dunlop Ukulele Pro-4 or D'Addario Zyex Violin strings.

What is the primary benefit of the Medium 13-56 gauge?

The medium gauge provides more tension and mass, which results in higher volume and a fuller tone. It is excellent for driving the soundboard of larger acoustic guitars like Dreadnoughts.

Are these strings durable enough for heavy professional use?

Yes, they are described as immensely durable with unmatched strength. The combination of NY Steel cores, Fusion Twist, and the XS coating makes them one of the most robust options for professional players.

Gear article

D'Addario XSAPB1356 Acoustic Phosphor Bronze Medium Strings

The D'Addario XSAPB1356 is a set of medium-gauge acoustic guitar strings featuring a phosphor bronze winding and an ultra-thin film coating. Representing D'Addario's most innovative coated string technology to date, they are designed for maximum longevity and tuning stability.

DAddario XSAPB1356 Acoustic Phosphor Bronze Medium 13-56

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Overview and Technical Design

The D'Addario XSAPB1356 set is a premium acoustic string product designed to provide a high level of protection against tone degradation and breakage. These strings utilise a combination of an ultra-thin film coating on the wound strings and a unique polymer treatment on the plain steel strings. This dual-protection approach aims to ensure the entire set maintains a consistent feel and longevity.

A central feature of the XS design is the 'Fusion Twist' technology. This manufacturing process involves a specific method of twisting the string at the ball-end, which reduces friction and slippage. This contributes significantly to the set's ability to maintain pitch under stress.

Durability and Tuning Stability

Designed as D'Addario's most durable coated string to date, the XSAPB1356 is engineered to resist the oils, sweat, and moisture that typically lead to corrosion and dull tone. The ultra-thin film serves as a barrier that extends the lifespan of the strings far beyond that of standard uncoated sets.

In addition to the physical longevity of the materials, the strings offer enhanced tuning stability. The combination of the NY Steel core and the Fusion Twist design ensures that the strings reach pitch quickly and stay there, even during aggressive playing or frequent temperature changes.

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Feel and Playability

The XS coating provides a tactile experience that is described as smoother than previous coated iterations. The medium gauge (13-56) offers a higher tension profile, which provides more physical resistance for the player and drives the soundboard of the guitar more forcefully than lighter sets. Despite the presence of the protective film, the strings are designed to maintain a natural feel under the fingers, reducing finger squeak while providing a consistent grip.

Comparative Analysis

Compared to other products in the D'Addario range, such as the Helicore or Zyex series which serve orchestral instruments, the XS series focuses specifically on the needs of the modern guitarist. In the wider market, they compete with offerings like the Ernie Ball M-Steel or Tim Henson Signature sets, though the XS distinguishes itself through its specific focus on film-coating longevity rather than just alloy-based output. While standard phosphor bronze strings are known for their warmth, the XS version adds a layer of protection that maintains that 'new string' brightness for a longer duration.

Suitability

The XSAPB1356 set is particularly suited for players who prefer a medium-gauge tension and require strings that can withstand heavy use. It is an ideal choice for guitarists who find themselves frequently changing strings due to dullness or for those who perform in humid environments where corrosion is a constant factor. The 13-56 gauge is generally preferred by flatpickers and heavy strummers who want maximum volume and projection from their acoustic instrument.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the specific gauge range for the XSAPB1356 set?: The XSAPB1356 is a medium-gauge set ranging from .013 on the high E string to .056 on the low E string. The full gauges are .013, .017, .026, .035, .045, and .056.
What makes the XS coating different from other D'Addario strings?: The XS series features an ultra-thin film coating on every wound string and a unique polymer treatment on the plain steels. This is D'Addario's most innovative protection system, designed for a smoother feel and maximum lifespan.
What is Fusion Twist technology?: Fusion Twist is an exclusive D'Addario design that prevents the string from slipping at the ball-end. This technology improves tuning stability and increases the overall strength of the string.
What material is used for the winding of these strings?: The strings are wound with Phosphor Bronze. This alloy is traditional for acoustic guitars and is known for providing a balance of warmth and brightness.
Are the plain steel strings coated in this set?: The plain steel strings in the XS set are not film-coated like the wound strings; instead, they receive a unique polymer treatment. This ensures that the entire set has a premium level of protection against corrosion.
How does the price of XS strings compare to standard strings?: The XSAPB1356 typically retails around £13.00, which is higher than standard uncoated strings. This reflects the added cost of the ultra-thin film coating and the extended lifespan it provides.
Who is the XSAPB1356 set best suited for?: This set is ideal for acoustic guitarists who want a medium-tension feel and long-lasting tone. It is particularly useful for players who suffer from dull tone or frequent string breakages.
Does the coating affect the sound of the phosphor bronze?: While all coatings have a slight dampening effect, the XS film is engineered to be ultra-thin to preserve the natural phosphor bronze character. It aims to maintain a crisp, vibrant tone for a much longer period than uncoated strings.
How does the feel of the XS strings compare to other coated strings?: D'Addario describes the feel of the XS series as 'smoother than ever before.' The film is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible while providing a slick surface that reduces finger noise.
Can these strings be used on a concert ukulele or violin?: No, these are specifically designed for 6-string acoustic guitars. Instruments like ukuleles or violins require specific sets such as Dunlop Ukulele Pro-4 or D'Addario Zyex Violin strings.
What is the primary benefit of the Medium 13-56 gauge?: The medium gauge provides more tension and mass, which results in higher volume and a fuller tone. It is excellent for driving the soundboard of larger acoustic guitars like Dreadnoughts.
Are these strings durable enough for heavy professional use?: Yes, they are described as immensely durable with unmatched strength. The combination of NY Steel cores, Fusion Twist, and the XS coating makes them one of the most robust options for professional players.