Daddario XSE1046

Set of Strings for Electric Guitar

Nickel-plated steel
Same polymer coating as XS acoustic strings
High-carbon steel string core like the NYXL strings
Tonal behaviour like an uncoated EXL string
Gauges: .010, .013, .017, .026, .036, .046
Made in USA

Available since April 2022
Item number 540718
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
String gauge 010 - 046
Strength of the strings 0,010" – 0,046"
Material Steel

£11

All prices incl. VAT

Sales Rank

in Coated Electric Guitar Strings

Nickel strings with an ultra-long lifespan

Manufactured using New York high-carbon steel for outstanding break strength, and with an ultra-thin polymer coating, the D'Addario XSE1046 strings offer – alongside the characteristics typical of nickel guitar strings – an extremely long lifespan and reliable tuning stability, too. This set of strings (with the gauges .010, .013, .017, .026, .036 and .046) is perfect for guitarists who play plenty of solos on their instrument, but who need the power of heavier bass strings too. When it comes to the sound they make, these strings don't differ from D'Addario's uncoated strings in the slightest – the only difference is that they'll last considerably longer, while sounding fresh and dynamic the entire time.

Meticulous manufacturing

D'Addario's XS film coating is ten times finer than human hair, while still reliably protecting the strings from residue and changing temperatures over a long period of time. The coating is imperceptible to the touch, with a play-feel that is incredibly natural and a sound that's typical for strings with a nickel alloy wrap. The polymer coating also reduces the strings' finger noise, which is great for studio recordings in particular. The steel core's hexagonal shape (which is another D'Addario innovation) means the contact between core and wrap wire is almost seamless, giving the strings great tuning stability and precise intonation from the first fret to the last.

D'Addario XSE1046, string set for electric guitar

Get the best out of every guitar

With their phenomenal durability, their powerful sound, their extraordinary break strength, and their great tuning stability, these D'Addario XSE1046 strings are a wonderful compromise between comfortable playability and a thick, punchy sound. Over time, the seemingly high price – compared to D'Addario's untreated options – will prove to have been excellent value for money, because the innovative polymer coating means XS strings simply last much, much longer – while still sounding fresh, brilliant, and balanced for every second of their long lifespan.

About D'Addario

In the world of stringed instruments, D'Addario is one of the largest manufacturers of strings themselves. The origins of the brand date back to 17th century Italy, but production was moved to New York in 1905 and even today, the brand's strings are still made and further developed in the USA. D'Addario now offers something for every need, from simple and low-priced strings to coated models and Hex-core strings. Apart from strings, the range has been expanded to include various accessories for guitarists, and other brands such as Planet Waves, Evans, Rico, and Pro Mark, which manufacture accessories for various groups of instruments, now also belong to D’Addario.

Long-lasting vintage nickel sound

The D'Addario XSE1046 strings offer great tuning stability, extraordinary break strength, and an ultra-long lifespan, thanks to D'Addario's innovative coating. Of course, they also produce that typical nickel-string sound, with the vintage twang that all good nickel strings have; this set's weight is especially well balanced, offering soloists bends and vibrato they'll really love, but without lacking any energy in the low end. Finally, a quick Thomann tip: The D'Addario XSE strings are available in a immense range of very finely graded different weights right here in our online shop, so that every guitarist of every ability level will be able to find something for every guitar and every playing style.

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104 Customer ratings

5 81 Customers 4 14 Customers 3 5 Customers 2 4 Customers 1 0 Customers

4.7 / 5

sound

quality

Review guidelines

61 Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Top-Tier Electric Strings – Clarity, Feel

Buba32 06.05.2025

The D’Addario XSE1046 have quickly become my go-to electric guitar strings. From the moment I strung them up, the tone was crisp, punchy, and well-balanced, with a tight low end and bright highs that cut through the mix perfectly. Whether you're playing clean tones or driving heavy gain, these strings deliver clarity and consistency across the board.

The ultra-thin EXP coating is a game changer – you get the feel of a fresh uncoated set, but with the durability of coated strings. They’re smooth under the fingers with zero drag, making fast playing, bends, and slides effortless.

I’ve been impressed by how well they maintain tone and tuning stability even after long sessions. Perfect for gigging or studio work where reliability is key.

In short, the XSE1046s combine D'Addario’s legendary quality with modern coated string tech, giving you performance and longevity without compromise. A top choice for serious players.

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Probably best strings for me

vbrabandt 15.07.2023

I been playing these strings for around 2-3 months and it's been amazing, the string feels smooth so sliding to a note is very easy and considering that I play almost every single day for hours and they still feels and sound good, I recommend these to anyone who wants a long lasting, good sounding set of strings (who thinks that they are worth it).

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Strings for harsh environment

JensWel 20.10.2022

These strings can live ½ year though the rough heat, dust, salt and occasionally wet climate in south-west Crete. They are easy to change and get in tune, stays well, take bends and sounds very close to non-coated strings. Actually I like the smoothness of the coating. Highly recommendable.

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Wow!

JFVP 01.06.2025

I used to always buy the cheapest strings I could find. Big mistake. The price difference is absolutely worth it in this case. A warmer, brighter sound, noticeably better string elasticity that makes playing more comfortable, and these strings will last two or even three times longer than the cheap ones without losing their qualities.

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Daddario XSE1046

Set of Strings for Electric Guitar