Forum - Banjo Ben Clark

Mando - coated strings

#1

Friends —

Just wanted to share with you a string recommendation. For most of the 3 years I’ve been playing now, I was using the basic D’Addario phosphor bronze.

A month ago I decided on a whim to try the D’Addario XS phosphor bronze stings that are coated, and WOW, I will never go back to the basics. The coated strings in my opinion are better in every way! Easier slides, coating keeps the strings from getting grimy, they stay in tune longer…and I fully expect they’ll last longer before I need changing. SO, although they might be 2X the price of the regular D’Addario strings, I’d say they’re well worth it, and because they’ll last longer, I’m not even sure you can say they cost more — it’s very likely they cost the same on a “per day” basis. So, if you’ve ever wondered about them, I say try them!

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#2

I had the exact same experience with guitar strings about 2 years ago. I’d never want to go back!

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#3

I’ve been meaning to give XS a shot on guitar after my Elixirs run out. I did try them on mandolin, but they didn’t make any noticeable lifespan difference, strangely enough (neither has any other coated string for mandolin so far). Awesome that they’re working so well for you!

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#4

I tried a set of XTs on my guitar this summer, they lasted about 3 days and got rusty and unplayable. Now, I had let someone else play my guitar outside around the dewy time, but still, I was unimpressed. I’ve had a set of XSs on since August, and I think it’s time to change them.

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#5

XS is a huge upgrade over XT. Not sure what the difference is but they feel and sound much better and last way longer. I only tried XT once and took them off after a few days.

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#6

What strings do you use? I’ve had my guitar for two years and I’ve not changed the strings once. :grimacing: I know they’re over-do for a change, so I’m looking for good ones.

#7

Libby’s referring to D’Addario XS, those have become a really popular pick since they came out a few years ago. If you want long-lasting strings, your best bet will be a coated string like those or Elixirs, which is what I’ve been using for the past few years. I can stretch a set of Elixirs about 8-9 weeks, give or take.

(…incidentally, those are both available at STORE.BANJOBENCLARK.COM!)

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#8

Yes D’Addario XS 13-56

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#9

Ok, thanks!