Elixir Nanoweb or Optiweb vs Daddario XS?

[Spaced Out Ace]

My understanding, per emailing with someone at D'addario, is that the XS style coated strings are more like Elixirs. Unlike the Elixirs, they don't do a treatment to the plain strings, but coat them with the same stuff as the wound strings.

Anyways, I'm curious if anyone has used both and what they think of the D'addario XS if they have? Apparently, the XT is more similar to the Cleartone coated strings, which I was not a fan of at all.

Just to be clear, I don't think I'm planning to switch from Elixirs at present, but just looking at having alternatives if needed, particularly if I plan to change up string gauges for something a little more unique.

 

[the-trooper]

Unlike the Elixirs, they don't do a treatment to the plain strings

Neither do Elixirs. Plain Elixirs are just stainless steel strings.

 

[Spaced Out Ace]

Neither do Elixirs. Plain Elixirs are just stainless steel strings.

There is some sort of plating and they do not refer to the plain strings as stainless steel.

 

[the-trooper]

There is some sort of plating and they do not refer to the plain strings as stainless steel.

They do not, but if you check with the manufacturer they'll confirm plain strings are just stainless steel string. At least that's what they told me.

 

[Jarick]

I think Elixir plain strings are "treated" but not coated, and D'Addario strings are supposed to all be coated?

In practice they both seem pretty close in terms of tone and feel.

 

[Spaced Out Ace]

They do not, but if you check with the manufacturer they'll confirm plain strings are just stainless steel string. At least that's what they told me.

That would eat nickel frets so I'm not sure if that's the case.

 

[the-trooper]

That would eat nickel frets so I'm not sure if that's the case.

Like I said, I got my info directly from Elixir. I'm guessing Elixir knows a thing or two about Elixir strings.

Edit: just for transparency sake, the person I emailed with was from their German "branch", not someone directly from the factory. But I'll still take his word over internet opinions.

 

[Spaced Out Ace]

Like I said, I got my info directly from Elixir. I'm guessing Elixir knows a thing or two about Elixir strings.

Edit: just for transparency sake, the person I emailed with was from their German "branch", not someone directly from the factory. But I'll still take his word over internet opinions.

You do that.