Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (7)
$7.90
Guitar Center
5.0 (16)
$7.39
Amazon
4.8 (555)
Musician's Friend
5.0 (21)
$7.39
Thomann
4.7 (110)
$7.30 $7.20 $0.10 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50 strings offer a superb blend of tone, reliability, and playability for electric guitar enthusiasts. These nickel-plated steel wound strings are meticulously crafted around a hexagonal steel core, providing a bright, punchy sound that seamlessly integrates into any musical setting. The balanced tension design ensures an even feel across all six strings, making them ideal for diverse playing styles—from intricate solos to robust chords.

These strings are precision-wound to maintain consistency in tone and intonation, ensuring that every pack delivers the same reliable performance. The roundwound construction presents a traditional feel, enabling effortless transitions between playing techniques while still providing ample grip for bends and slides.

D'Addario has also taken care to protect these strings with corrosion-resistant packaging, keeping them fresh and ready for use whether you're restringing immediately or storing them for future gigs. The color-coded ball ends simplify the restringing process, making it quick and hassle-free.

Key Features:

  • Nickel-plated steel wrap for a bright, versatile tone
  • Hexagonal steel core for enhanced stability and intonation
  • Balanced tension across all strings for consistent playability
  • Precision-wound for reliable tone and feel
  • Roundwound construction for a familiar playing experience
  • Corrosion-resistant packaging for long-lasting freshness
  • Color-coded ball ends for easy string changes

Product specs

Guitar Type Electric Guitar
Number of Strings 6
Coated No
Gauges .011, .015, .019, .028, .037, .050
Core Material Steel
Winding Material Nickel Plated Steel
Winding Type Round Wound

FAQs

What is the benefit of using D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension strings?

These strings offer balanced tension across all strings, providing a more even playing feel and enhanced control. This can lead to improved finger positioning and reduced fatigue during extended playing sessions.

Are D'Addario EXL115BT strings suitable for all electric guitars?

Yes, these strings are designed for 6-string electric guitars and are compatible with most models. However, always check your guitar's specifications to ensure the gauge (.011-.050) is appropriate for your instrument.

How do D'Addario EXL115BT strings affect the tone of my guitar?

The nickel-plated steel winding provides a bright, clear tone with excellent intonation. The balanced tension contributes to a consistent sound across all strings, making them versatile for various music styles.

What is the difference between D'Addario EXL115BT and regular tension strings?

Unlike regular tension strings, the EXL115BT set offers balanced tension, which helps maintain consistent playability and tone across all strings, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.

How often should I replace my D'Addario EXL115BT strings?

Replacement frequency depends on playing habits and environmental factors. Regular players might change strings every 1-2 months, while casual players might extend this period. Signs of wear, such as dull tone or difficulty staying in tune, indicate it's time for a change.

Rich Turner

Rich Turner

A brief explanation of D'Addario Balanced Tension EXL110BT vs Regular Gauge EXL110

Video thumbnail for A brief explanation of D'Addario Balanced Tension EXL110BT vs Regular Gauge EXL110 by Rich Turner

A brief explanation of D'Addario Balanced Tension EXL110BT vs Regular Gauge EXL110

Rich Turner

Rich Turner

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50.

User experience

  • Transitioning from lighter gauges like 9s to D'Addario 11-50s can improve tone stability and reduce string breakage for heavy-handed players.

    Source
  • Players who frequently tune down, such as to Eb or Drop C, find 11-50s maintain better tension and intonation, preventing pitch issues.

    Source
  • The 11-50 set is appreciated for its balanced tension, providing a consistent feel across all strings and aiding in dynamic playing.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Switching to thicker gauges like 11-50 may require adjustments to the guitar's truss rod and nut to accommodate increased tension.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some players prefer D'Addario 11-50s over lighter gauges for a fuller tone and reduced string floppiness when detuning.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 11-50 gauge is favored for aggressive styles, allowing for heavier picking without strings going sharp.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
liam082

Simply Exelent

So I don't care much for normal string gauges on Les Pauls. I use these on my Epi LP custom pro and I have to say they are by far the best strings I have used. They sound great they last me about 4 months before they start to go dead they are pretty corrosion resistant too. I use them tuned to E standard and I think they feel and sound amazing. Hold tune really well and don't take long to bed in after being stretched and tuned up. In the 10 months I've been using them I have not broken one which is a first for me I usually brake the e or B strings. I don't tend to drop tune with these, occasionally Eb and rarely drop D

jimmarchi1

if you break strings frequently you need to adjust your stop bar height and change them a little more frequently... I haven't broken a string in a decade

liam082

I used to break strings a lot years ago with ernie ball strings think I used to use 9-42s looking back on it. don't know what I was thinking using strings that light haha. Also used to have a bad picking technique where I'd be hitting the strings full pelt all the time which I no longer do. I have my stop bar as low as it can go and the action set pretty low to, like just where it doesn't buzz if I hit the strings hard. I love having a low action though

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Julian Lage uses D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50

Julian Lage

Guitarist

The Nels Cline 4

...
Verified via GuitarPlayer.com

In this article by Guitar Player magazine from April 2016, Julian states "For a month or so I have been using D’Addario .011s with a wound third. For the longest time it was .012s."

See how Harry Fowler uses D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50

Harry Fowler

Guitarist

Wunderhorse

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo posted by Wunderhorse's guitar technician, Harry Fowler's Stratocaster is being restrung with a set of D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50 strings.

See how Peter Huss uses D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50

Peter Huss

Guitarist

Shining

...
Verified via Photo

uses daddario strings from his instagram

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use D'Addario EXL115BT XL Balanced Tension 11-50, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

More D'Addario Strings

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    liam082
    liam082

    Gear IQ 1869