Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$8.49 $6.49 $2.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (5)
$8.49 $6.49 $2.00 · All time low
Amazon
4.8 (675)
$8.49 $6.49 $2.00 · All time low
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$5.89 New
$7.87 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (14)
$8.49 $6.49 $2.00 · All time low
Thomann
4.7 (296)
$7.70 $7.60 $0.10 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your playing with the D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings, tailored for the guitarist seeking the perfect blend of depth and flexibility. With a heavy gauge range from .012 to .054, these strings are the go-to choice for those looking to dive into down-tuning and execute heavy chording without sacrificing playability. Unlike the standard sets, the EXL145 features an unwound 3rd string, offering unparalleled flexibility that allows you to bend and solo with ease. Whether you're laying down thick rhythm tracks or soaring through solos, these strings ensure your guitar's voice remains clear and strong through every note. Crafted with precision and care, they bring out the best in your instrument, proving that sometimes, heavier really is better.

Key Features:

  • Gauges: .012, .016, .020, .032, .042, .054
  • Hex-shaped high carbon steel core for added strength
  • Round wound with nickel-plated steel for a bright, vibrant tone
  • Made in the U.S.A with environmentally friendly, corrosion-resistant packaging

Product specs

Available since May 2004
String gauge 012 - 054
Strength of the strings 0,012" – 0,054"
Material Nickel Plated Steel

FAQs

What type of music are D'Addario EXL145 Heavy Gauge Strings best suited for?

D'Addario EXL145 Heavy Gauge Strings are ideal for genres that require a fuller, more powerful tone, such as rock, metal, and blues. Their heavier gauge provides greater tension and sustain, making them suitable for drop tunings and aggressive playing styles.

How does the nickel-plated steel material affect the sound of D'Addario EXL145 strings?

The nickel-plated steel used in D'Addario EXL145 strings delivers a bright, clear tone with excellent magnetic properties, enhancing the sustain and clarity of electric guitars. This material also provides a smooth feel and reduced finger noise.

Are D'Addario EXL145 strings suitable for drop tunings?

Yes, D'Addario EXL145 strings are well-suited for drop tunings due to their heavy gauge, which provides the necessary tension to maintain stability and intonation when tuning down.

How do D'Addario EXL145 strings compare to lighter gauge strings in terms of playability?

D'Addario EXL145 strings require more finger strength and produce higher tension compared to lighter gauge strings. While they offer a richer tone and greater sustain, they may be more challenging for beginners or players with a lighter touch.

Rob Chapman

Rob Chapman

D'addario Competition - Enter it if you like winning stuff

Video thumbnail for D'addario Competition - Enter it if you like winning stuff by Rob Chapman

D'addario Competition - Enter it if you like winning stuff

Rob Chapman

Rob Chapman

Video thumbnail for D'Addario XL Electric Guitar Strings - American Musical Supply by American Musical Supply

D'Addario XL Electric Guitar Strings - American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54).

Setup and maintenance

  • D'Addario EXL145 strings (12-54) require nut slot widening to avoid high action and tuning instability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • EXL145 strings are ideal for D Standard tuning, providing sufficient tension and reducing slinkiness compared to lighter gauges.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report that EXL145 strings reduce squeaky finger noise, a common issue with some other string brands in similar gauge.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
skylinerr

Great string

Awesome strings use the 12's for E full step down tuning

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Bay uses D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54)

James Bay

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

listed on the website (source)

See how Phil Collen uses D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54)

Phil Collen

Guitarist

Def Leppard

...
Verified via Daddario

Phil Collen has been a proud D'Addario Rock Artist since 2007, using D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54) as featured on the D'Addario website.

See how D. Boon uses D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54)

D. Boon

Singer, Guitarist

Minutemen

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Boon favored heavy gauge strings—usually D’Addario .012’s—and gray .88 mm Dunlop picks.

See how Ray LaMontagne uses D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54)

Ray LaMontagne

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Planetwaves

These strings are listed on D'Addario's/Planet Waves as LaMontagne choice.

See how Mike Mason uses D'Addario EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54)

Mike Mason

Guitarist

Gaza

...
Verified via Tumblr

Mike Mason lists these as strings he uses in this interview.

Daddario XL117(11-56) and XL145(12-54). GAZA uses a lot of different tunings, because we’re a lot of different stupid.

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 EXL145 Nickelwound Heavy Gauge Strings (12-54), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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