D&#39;Addario EXL148 Nickel Wound, Extra-Heavy Electric Guitar Strings (12-60)

4.5 (9)

$8.49 $6.49 $2.00 · All time low

4.7 (1340)

$6.49

5.0 (5)

$6.49 51 available New

$12.53 1 available Used

4.0 (26)

$8.49 $6.49 $2.00 · All time low

$8.49

4.7 (747)

$8.30 $8.10 $0.20 · All time low

£8.50

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "D'Addario EXL148 Nickel Wound, Extra-Heavy Electric Guitar Strings (12-60)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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For guitarists who thrive in the realm of dropped tunings and heavy riffs, the D'Addario EXL148 Nickel Wound strings are your go-to choice. Designed with the adventurous musician in mind, this extra-heavy set is optimized for Drop C tuning, offering the perfect balance of tension and flexibility. Crafted with a nickel-plated steel wrap around a hexagonal steel core, these strings deliver a bright, cutting tone that slices through the mix while maintaining excellent intonation.

Whether you're playing bone-crushing metal or exploring deep, resonant soundscapes, the EXL148 strings ensure that your guitar's voice remains powerful and articulate. And with D'Addario's commitment to quality and innovation, you can rest assured that each set is precision-wound for consistent performance and long-lasting durability.

Key Features:

Gauges: .012, .016, .020, .034, .046, .060
Optimized for C tuning and other dropped tunings
Round wound with nickel-plated steel for bright tonality
Hex-shaped high carbon steel core for enhanced stability
Made in the USA with environmentally friendly, corrosion-resistant packaging

Product specs

Guitar Type	Electric Guitar
Number of Strings	6
Coated	No
Gauges	.012, .016, .020p, .034w, .046, .060
Core Material	Steel
Winding Material	Nickel Plated Steel
Winding Type	Round Wound

FAQs

Are the D'Addario EXL148 strings suitable for drop tuning?: Yes, the D'Addario EXL148 strings are specifically designed for drop tunings like Drop C, offering extra tension and stability with their heavier gauges.
What is the tone characteristic of the D'Addario EXL148 Nickel Wound strings?: The D'Addario EXL148 strings provide a bright and crisp tone with enhanced mid-range presence, thanks to their nickel-plated steel winding.
Can beginners use D'Addario EXL148 strings on their electric guitars?: While beginners can use the D'Addario EXL148 strings, they are extra-heavy gauge and may require more finger strength, making them more suitable for experienced players or those focusing on drop tunings.
What is the benefit of using extra-heavy gauge strings like the D'Addario EXL148?: Extra-heavy gauge strings like the D'Addario EXL148 offer increased tension, which can enhance sustain and tuning stability, particularly beneficial for lower tunings and heavier playing styles.
Do the D'Addario EXL148 strings have a coating?: No, the D'Addario EXL148 strings are not coated, which allows for a more natural feel and traditional tone while still offering durability due to their nickel-plated steel construction.

Reviews

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PROS

Excellent tension for lower tunings like C standard and drop B
Ideal for achieving chunky, powerful guitar tones
Durable and resistant to frequent breakage
Maintains good intonation and reduces fret buzz
Retains percussive feel, great for rhythm guitarists
Eco-friendly packaging with a convenient color-coded guide
High-quality, bright nickel sound with good sustain
Consistent quality across multiple sets
Versatile for various music genres, including metal and punk rock

CONS

May require nut adjustments for proper fit
The G string is not wound, which some players may dislike
Can feel too tense for solo-oriented playing
Longevity may not match coated strings in humid conditions
Can go flat quickly in certain tunings like C# standard

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Addario EXL148 Nickel Wound, Extra-Heavy Electric Guitar Strings (12-60).

Setup and maintenance

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Avoid using a 24p third string due to the significant tension disparity with adjacent strings; a 12-16-20 configuration is recommended for consistent tension.
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Custom string sets can be assembled using single strings for precise tension control, though this may increase costs.
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Installing a Graphtech TUSQ pre-cut nut is recommended for accommodating larger string gauges like the D'Addario EXL148 without extensive filing.
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Use cases and applications

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A 12-60 set like the D'Addario EXL148 is well-suited for Drop B tuning, offering appropriate tension without feeling overly heavy.
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D'Addario EXL148 strings are suitable for turning a Fender Telecaster into a doom metal instrument with B standard tuning, though neck adjustments may be needed.
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For transforming a guitar into a "7-string without the highest string," using 7-string sets minus the lightest string is advised for optimal tuning.
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User experience

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A longer scale length, such as 28", delivers tighter and more articulate sound in low tunings compared to shorter scales, which can sound muddy.
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Comparisons

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Switching from a 12-54 to a 12-56 gauge offers a noticeable increase in tension for the sixth string, improving tuning stability in Drop B.
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0 0

While Ernie Ball strings are described as "mediocre," D'Addario EXL148 strings are favored for better performance in low tunings like B standard.
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Value and pricing

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Purchasing single strings, like a .60 gauge, can be costly, but bulk packs may offer savings and longevity when properly maintained.
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Mods and upgrades

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Pitch shifting using a VST like Pitchproof can effectively simulate B standard tuning without requiring heavier gauge strings, ideal for players with physical discomfort.
Source

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 20 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

oldfuzzhead

573

over 7 years ago

Tension, tension, tension.

Use these in C# standard on one or two songs during a set. I love their tension (which is optimized for C standard tuning) and tone, but they go flat fairly quickly.

Artist usage

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Hernan Terry Langer

Guitarist, Composer

Carajo

Verified via YouTube

In a 2021 Rig Rundown video by Doble Bobina, Hernan Terry Langer confirms he uses D'Addario EXL148 Nickel Wound, Extra-Heavy Electric Guitar Strings (12-60) for Drop C tuning.

Genre Usage

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

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