D'Addario Strings Review: My Long-Term Experience and String Changing Process

This article details my extensive experience with D'Addario guitar strings, spanning several years and encompassing both amateur and professional playing. As a long-time user, I'll share my insights into why I remain a devoted D'Addario customer, focusing on my preferred string combinations, a practical guide to string changing, and a comprehensive assessment of their sound, feel, and longevity. My preference for normal tension strings and my process for minimizing guitar damage during string changes will also be highlighted.Beyond the practical aspects, I'll explore the importance of consistent intonation and the pleasant playing experience that D'Addario strings provide. I'll discuss the impact of string choice on sound quality, and how the "feel" of the strings under my fingers significantly contributes to my overall playing enjoyment. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a realistic and helpful perspective for fellow guitarists considering D'Addario strings, particularly those interested in classical guitar playing.

Pros And Cons

Read more: String Winder Shootout: Daddario, Dunlop, & Music Nomad Compared

My D'Addario String Journey

I've been a loyal D'Addario user since 2018, long before I became a professional musician. Back then, I prided myself on how many sets I went through during daily practice sessions. The consistency and longevity impressed me from the start, and I haven't found a better brand since.

I've experimented with various D'Addario sets over the years, starting as a nylon purist. The introduction of their carbon strings marked a turning point, ultimately leading me to my current preferred combination.

This blend utilizes the D'Addario XTC 45 FF strings with their extended life coating for the lower strings, coupled with a single D'Addario ProArt normal tension nylon string for the high E. The carbon trebles provide a bright, clear tone, while the nylon high E creates a warmer, more natural singing quality.

String Changing Techniques and Protective Measures

To protect the guitar top, I always place a doubled business card taped to the bridge before changing strings. This simple precaution prevents damage from accidental slips during string winding.

I use a D'Addario string winder to speed up the process. A helpful tip is to loosen the tuning pegs with a screwdriver before winding; this makes them spin much more freely.

I carefully overlap the new string over the excess of the old strings when winding, ensuring a tight fit that prevents slipping back through the hole. I aim for all string ends to face downwards, for a cleaner look.

String Tension and Frequency of Changes

I find normal tension strings work best for my guitars and playing style. While high tension strings can minimize fret buzz, I prefer the more relaxed sound and feel of normal tension. D'Addario's color-coded packaging makes it easy to identify different tensions.

The frequency of string changes depends on playing habits; more frequent playing necessitates more frequent changes. I might change strings every two to three weeks with heavy playing, or even weekly during periods of intensive practice.

For me, changing strings is as much about maintaining a happy and inspired playing experience as it is about sound quality. New strings provide a vibrant sound, smoother feel, and overall enhance the enjoyment of playing.

Why D'Addario?

Consistency and intonation are key factors in my choice of D'Addario strings. Their strings are consistently excellent, producing great sound across various guitars and providing reliable intonation across the fretboard.

I've used many string brands, and D'Addario's intonation consistently excels; they rarely cause intonation issues, unlike some other brands. This is a crucial element for me, as even slight intonation problems are distracting.

Beyond sound, the feel of the strings under my fingers is important. D'Addario strings, particularly the basses, produce a less scratchy sound, which is essential for my classical technique using finger nails.

Conclusion: Are D'Addario Strings Worth It?

My long-term experience demonstrates that D'Addario strings offer exceptional value. Their consistency in sound quality, precise intonation, and pleasant feel under the fingers make them my go-to choice.

While the frequency of string changes varies depending on playing habits, the investment in D'Addario strings is justified by their superior performance and longevity. Ultimately, the improved playing experience and joy derived from the fresh sound make the cost worthwhile.

I highly recommend D'Addario strings to any guitarist, particularly classical players who appreciate the nuances of string feel and intonation. Experiment with different tensions to find the perfect fit for your guitar and playing style.