D'Addario XS Electric Guitar Strings | 9-46 Light Top/Medium Bottom

Maximum Life + Bright Tone + Unmatched Stability

D’Addario XS represents the absolute pinnacle of coated string technology. Originally debuting to critical acclaim in the acoustic world, the XS Electric line brings the same groundbreaking innovation to the electric guitarist. Engineered at D'Addario’s Farmingdale, New York facility, the XS 9-46 hybrid gauge delivers the flexible, bend-friendly response of a light set with the thick, punchy low-end of a medium gauge—making it the perfect choice for versatile players who demand expressive lead work and a powerful rhythm foundation.

The XS series completes D'Addario's definitive extended-life portfolio, offering the maximum possible string life with an ultra-smooth playing feel, without sacrificing the iconic, vibrant D'Addario tone.

Key Features & Benefits

• Maximum String Life: Features an impossibly thin film coating (1/10 the thickness of a human hair) that completely shields wound strings from corrosion, combined with D'Addario's proprietary dispersion coating on plain steels to protect every string.

• Reformulated Nickel-Plated Steel Wrap: Specifically engineered for electric guitars, this new wrap wire provides a noticeably brighter tone, increased output, aggressive bite, and exceptional sustain.

• Unmatched Tuning Stability & Strength: Built with D'Addario’s exclusive NY Steel high-carbon core and plain string wire, alongside patented Fusion Twist technology, delivering superior break strength and precise intonation.

• Smooth, Fast Feel: The advanced micro-coating offers a slick, friction-reduced surface that minimizes finger squeak and facilitates faster playability, all while maintaining the tactile precision and control you expect.

• Hybrid Gauge Advantage (9-46): High strings offer effortless bending; Low strings provide a thick, driving rhythm tone—ideal for rock, blues, and modern pop.

• XS Series: Maximum life with a smoother, more lubricated feel.

Choose XS when you want your "new string day" feeling to last longer than ever before.

What the Pros Are Saying

"D'Addario has outdone themselves with their latest line of guitar strings. XS Electric strings feel extra smooth without being slippery and deliver a 'new string feel' at a higher level. They also feel new for longer and seem to enhance the natural timbres of your instrument."
— Alex Skolnick (Legendary Guitarist)

Tech Specs (9-46)

• E (1st): .009 | Plain Steel / NY Steel Core

• B (2nd): .011 | Plain Steel / NY Steel Core

• G (3rd): .016 | Plain Steel / NY Steel Core

• D (4th): .026 | Nickel-Plated Steel / Hex Core

• A (5th): .036 | Nickel-Plated Steel / Hex Core

• E (6th): .046 | Nickel-Plated Steel / Hex Core

Hex-core construction provides superior dimensional stability and enhanced durability for precise intonation.

Stop changing strings every other gig. The D'Addario XS 9-46 offers the ultimate balance of tone, feel, and longevity. Whether you are a touring professional or a weekend warrior, these strings will maintain their brilliant, studio-quality sound and tuning integrity through hours of heavy playing, sweat, and environmental changes.

Upgrade your tone. Extend your performance. Experience the XS breakthrough today.