D'Addario XL Nickel EXL157 (14-68 Medium Baritone) Review: RecoGuru Analysis
D'Addario XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings (EXL157, 14-68 Medium Baritone) Review: RecoGuru Analysis & User Insights







Quick Look: At a Glance
- String Type
- Electric Guitar
- Material
- Nickel-Plated Steel
- Gauge
- 14-68 Medium Baritone
- Core
- Hex-Core
- Overall Rating
- (43,000+ ratings) See Breakdown 4.8 / 5
- Price (New)
- $8.29 (Subject to change)
Over 100+ bought bought recently!
Deep Dive: Features & Specifications
D'Addario XL Nickel Wound electric guitar strings are a standard for electric guitarists.
- BESTSELLING SET: XL Nickel are D'Addario's best-selling electric guitar strings, revered by players since 1974.
- VERSATILE, BRIGHT TONE: Nickel-plated steel wrap wire provides a bright, versatile electric guitar tone, great for a variety of musical genres.
- FOR THE ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE: Like all D’Addario electric guitar strings, XL Nickel are made with our proprietary Hex-Core, ensuring perfect intonation, consistent feel, and reliable durability.
- EARN REWARD POINTS: XL Nickel sets have a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn Players Circle points.
- MADE IN THE USA: XL Nickel electric guitar strings are made in the USA—drawn to our exacting specifications at our New York production facility.
Product Description: XL Nickel Wound electric guitar strings are the standard against which all other strings are measured. Our best-belling electric set, XL Nickel has been revered by players everywhere since 1974. Made with a high carbon steel core and nickel-plated steel wrap wire, XL Nickel strings have a bright, versatile tone, ideal for a wide variety of musical styles. This 14-68 Medium gauge set is designed for traditional long scale electric baritone guitars, such as B-tuned Danelectros.
User Review Analysis (Based on 43,000+ Reviews)
Based on over 43,000 customer reviews, here's a breakdown of common themes:
👍The Positive Reviews (86% 5-Star)
- Customers consistently praise the excellent tone and longevity of these strings.
- Many reviewers highlight the consistent quality and reliable durability of D'Addario strings.
- Several users mention the perfect intonation and bright, versatile tone.
- Some customers appreciate the affordable price for the quality offered.
👎Common Criticisms
- Some users may find the tone too bright.
- String gauge may not be suitable for all guitars/playing styles.
Pros & Cons Summary
➕Pros
- Excellent tone and longevity
- Consistent quality
- Reliable durability
- Perfect intonation
- Bright, versatile tone
- Affordable price
➖Cons
- May be too bright for some players
- String gauge may not be suitable for all guitars/playing styles
Available Options & Pricing
This review focuses on the D'Addario XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings, EXL157, Baritone Medium, 14-68 (ASIN: B00E9SXJH0). Many other gauges and styles are available:
- Size: 2-Pack, 1-Pack, 5-Pack, 10-Pack, 3-Pack, 25-Pack
- Style: Jazz Medium, 13-56, Med. Top/Hvy. Bottom, 11-52, Medium, Balanced Tension, 11-50, Lt. Top/Hvy. Bottom, 8-String, 10-74, Extra Heavy, 12-60, Super Light, Soldered Twists, 09-42, High-Strung/Nashville Tuning, 10-26, Med. Top/X-Hvy. Bottom, 11-56, Jazz Light, 12-52, Super Light, Balanced Tension, 09-40, Regular Light, 10-46, Jazz Extra Light, 10-49, Lt. Top/Hvy. Bottom, 10-52, Baritone Medium, 14-68, Regular Light Plus, 10.5-48, Super Light Top/Reg. Bottom, 09-46, Med. Blues/Jazz Rock, Wound 3rd, 11-49, Med. Blues/Jazz Rock, 11-49, Regular Light, Wound 3rd, 10-46, Heavy, 12-54, Extra Super Light, 08-38, Super Light Plus, 9.5-44, Super Light, 09-42, Baritone Light, 13-62, Extra Super Light Plus, 8.5-39, Regular Light, 7-String, 10-59, Super Light, 8-String, 09-65
- Buying Options: Typically available new for around $8.29. Check other listings for potential savings.
Current Availability: In Stock. New (15) from $8.29 FREE Shipping on orders over $35.00 shipped by Amazon.
Who Should Buy the D'Addario Guitar Strings - XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings - EXL157 - Perfect Intonation, Consistent Feel, Reliable Durability - For 6 String Guitars - 14-68 Medium Baritone?
This product is a great fit for:
- Guitarists looking for a bright, versatile tone.
- Players who value consistent quality and reliable durability in their strings.
- Musicians seeking perfect intonation for optimal performance.
- Those needing strings for baritone guitars.
May not be suitable for players who prefer a warmer, less bright tone or those who need lighter gauge strings.
⚖️ The RecoGuru Verdict
The D'Addario XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings (EXL157, 14-68 Medium Baritone) are a solid choice for guitarists seeking a bright, versatile tone and reliable performance. With a reputation for consistent quality and perfect intonation, these strings are a popular option for a variety of musical styles.
However, players who prefer a warmer tone or require lighter gauge strings may want to explore alternative options.
Recommended for guitarists who need baritone strings and appreciate a brighter tone.
Ready to Make Your Decision?
Check it out for yourself!
🛒 Buy the D'Addario Guitar Strings - XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings - EXL157 - Perfect Intonation, Consistent Feel, Reliable Durability - For 6 String Guitars - 14-68 Medium Baritone (14-68 Medium Baritone) on Amazon