Corrections/Additions: - The right guitar at 15:35 is strung with Elixir Optiweb, instead of the labeled Nanoweb. My dearest apologies! - We concluded that 4/5 strings in the semi's where coated. But neither the Rotosound Roto Yellows, nor the D'addario NYXL's are coated which makes it 3 out of 5.
Well, they sounded like Nano's so you'll have to do it all again :) But I have still not seen the final and if the Roto's win, the nano/opti does not matter. I use nano's but, regardless of the result here, next strings I buy will be Rotosound, there is something pleasant extra in the sound they help create. Great video, must have been a ton of work and I appreciate that a lot. Millions of us guitar nerds get answers to questions we have asked ourselves for years :)
Shout out to the person changing the strings for you. An absolute legend in my books! I really despise changing strings but to think they had to keep swapping out the strings and then keeping track of which were which etc... what an incredible job!
Honestly, I've never played your strings, but after this video, I'll be buy a few sets for sure! The coated sounded fantastic to me. Thanks for making budget strings that still sound great!
I played ernie ball slinkies for so long, but when I tried the NYXLs I just fell in love. Many times I find myself just playing unplugged when they're new since they sound great even by themselves
I play the NYXLs too, even though it's hard to find the light top/heavy bottom gauge sometimes. I even liked how they sounded better than the others in this video!
I was so happy to see my precious NYXLs make the semis, only to be taken out by their slightly more expensive brother from d’Adarrio. If they were to lose, that’s how I would’ve wanted it 😂 though I might have to check out the XSs next time I feel like doing a setup 😅
I used to play EB's and then went to NYXL's and loved them, then I tried the XT because I was told that the coating is very minimal and they're my new standard. They feel just like regular strings, just a TINY bit more slick. And they seem to last a very long time before they get dull or start to peel or anything. I've had some on one of my guitars for a year or more without any sign of corrosion.
I stand firm with my choice of strings, NYXL’s are some of my favorite strings out there and I use D’Addario for both my electric and acoustic guitar. They’re a bit more expensive, but I change my strings maybe twice a year and they’ve never given me a problem. In the end, they’re super durable and great quality. They actually save you money since you don’t have to change them often if you don’t want to.
This video is insane… SUPER useful, especially for someone like me that has a very basic untrained ear/just a casual with guitar. Major props to you and your team on all the strings swapping and planning that went into this! I’d love to see an acoustic version sometime in the future as well
@@nirhershkovitz2416 Because he’s describing different qualities to the sounds from each string, which is great ear training for me. At the current moment I can tell if I like or don’t like a sound, but it’s hard for me to pinpoint why - with his descriptions I’m learning a bit more about what makes up the sounds I enjoy in reference to guitar (and their strings) Also, the vid is just useful in general as a mini encyclopedia of different guitar string sounds
Every guitarist watching this is gonna be massively grateful to you! Would take some of us years to reach these kind of conclusions. Never heard the XS before and soon as I heard them in this video thought they'd win, but the rotos do sound fuller with really nice low end
Interesting that the low budget Harley Benton strings did not get kicked out straight away. They did a great job for that price point. In the end the winner is also very affordable. You could also repeat that shoot out in a mixing context, how the strings help to cut through the mix and sit well :-)
I've never understood how something that's not so good, but is considered great for a low price, is a good thing? That just reconfirms the fact that cheap stuff sucks.
@@SpaceCatttttthis is the dumbest thing ive ever read, the 3,90€ strings, holded up, and in this case he liked them better than the Gibson 10€ ones, so for 4 €, are really good for their price, they can charge you more for the strings if you want but, this shows you that cheap things arent always trash, in this case, the cheap ones holded up very well and won against more expensive ones, so, some "expensive shit" ones, were trashier than the "cheaper shit" ones, telling you, that cheaper, does not mean worse.
@@SpaceCatttttGood enough is good enough. I don't play concerts, I don't hear the difference myself all that well, I'm just plucking away in the privacy of my own room. So why pay 10x as much when there's no perceived difference?
The guitar with the "X" wins A LOT of the time. I wonder if it's just the nicer sounding guitar? I know they're identical production models, but there are differences in weight, resonance and sustain between factory examples
I’ve been running elixir strings for over 15 years now on my electric and acoustic guitars. Although they may not sound the best out of the box, they really just last forever and the sound quality after weeks or months is still fantastic (to me). I tried buying cheaper non-coated strings many times with hopes of finding something better, but always am let down when I find myself changing strings in less than a month (I live close to the beach). Very cool video!
Elixir Strings come in 2 very different flavors. d'addarios or GHS Boomers. No way to know which ones you have. I worked at the company and later the plant when these were developed and manufactured (17 years). Yes, this is 100% fact!
I second that … They do last extremely well. Usefully Elixir sell three different levels of ‘brightness’; Nanoewb, Polyweb and Optiweb. If you have a particularly bright guitar you can calm it down with the duller strings and visa versa.
Was pleased to see my two brands (D'Addario and Elixir) fared very well. Also surprised to see how well the Harley Benton strings performed at such a low price. Great video my friend!
Low prices = China. That's all I need to hear. When is the guitar community going to wake up and reject the idea of supporting the CCP? They hate us and want to destroy us - what else do you need to know?
@@78tag Attempting to parse my purchases into what's built where is something I have neither the time nor the inclination to do. I seriously doubt that the Chinese are attempting take over the world via budget guitar strings. Lol. Have a great day!
Thanks Paul for validating me being a Rotosound yellow guy for years :) They last long as well. I used to use them in a hard rock band and they also work great today for my post-rock/space rock project I'm in.
My main strings are the Roto Ultramags, 10-46 on some guitar and 9-42 on others. They are super bright and stay bright for a long time which makes them perfect for the music I play (60's and 70's rock eg. Rush, The Who, Iron Butterfly).
I switched to DR strings a couple years ago, and I love how they sound and how they age. More presence without being too harsh. Brings out overtones in the guitars and inspires my playing. Especially in acoustic. I'll have to try the roto strings
Same. I had an es-335 with a naturally mellow, warm sound and wanted that in my other guitars. I added them to a goldtop p90 and it sounded incredible. Now they are my go-to strings.
Interesting. I have used many strings over the years and have always returned to D’Addario. I prefer the tones they produce and their durability. Currently using D’Addario XL strings (EXL 115-3D to be exact) and love the sound. I use heavier gauge (11-14-18-28-38-49) strings for comfort. I was finding that 10 and lower would sometimes slice into my callouses. I could relieve this with less pressure on the neck, but it’s they way I play.😁
I have also had good luck with D'Addario as far as durability goes, but I wish that they would step up the gauge on the G string in these sets. Always seems one step too light to me.
@@vincent8736 I’ve been using D’Addario strings since 1985, very few problems. I’ve kept sets of these and the NYXL strings on for five plus years without issue. I just change them out when they sound dull. I haven’t broken a string (even with aggressive bending and trem bar dives) in over 20 years.
@Vincent probably because the longer scale of Tele then. Now I just buy the first string separately and that's enough for practice and also I can save the money to buy more pedals. Did you change all the strings when you broke your first string?
I have switched to Rotosound pinks 42-9 . They are reasonably priced, and they are incredibly durable, plus they stay in tune. I also put Rotosounds on my 7 String. Very happy with them. They are the best strings I have used.
I use the Rotos and can say they are great strings! Used them back in the 70's for a bit until they became too hard to get! I have picked them back up again and love them! They feel good and last a fairly long time!
I switched to the Harley Benton Coated a few years ago. So far I've seen decent sound output for 2-3 months per set, but it obviously varies with wear and tear. Price was the main factor for me.
Great video! Very pleased to see Rotosound the winner… I’ve always recognised these strings as my favourite. They really bring out the ‘woodiness’ of my Strat. Though, I have to say, I only get one or two gigs out of them before they sound quite dull. I’ve always steered away from coated strings too… but this video has encouraged me to try some out.🎸🔥
I'll always remember that one I used a set of Roto Yellows on a guitar for 4 years straight, 1 single set, never broke any of the strings and ok the sound did change but... 4 years... that alone makes Rotosound an absolute winner to me, I gotta find more of these here in FL definitely
DR have an impressive ‘squish’ so you can hit them hard but they don’t feel stiff. The magnetic core of the nickel wound string is round not hexagon shape. Fat sounding.
These have been my go-to for years. The winding is pure Nickel instead of nickel plating. I feel it makes them more springy, also more heavy, and they don't corrode as quickly as Nickel-plated strings IME.
@@Stephenmichaelsguitar I haven't tried the Blues - I had some quality control issues with DR Tite Fits a few years ago, but the recent sets I've had have been great. For the money the Tite-Fits are very good IMO but they are darker so I generally use them with single-coils.
@@Stephenmichaelsguitar +1 on that. I used them for years on my Strat. I loved the sound and the way they felt, but they were unreliable and let me down too many times in a live situation. That's been 20 years ago, and I hear that things have improved. Watching this has tempted me to pick up another set, but once bitten twice shy. I'm currently playing NYXLs but I'm going to try the Roto-Yellows.
I've been using Rotosound Hybrids (Orange) for years. They sound great, don't cost a fortune and you also get a spare high E, which is always appreciated!
Seriously? Wish I had known they give an extra high E. My Tele was breaking high e's every few days a little while back. Turns out the set of five single 10s I got from D'addario must have been bad. If I used a normal set of 10s, high E lasted forever. As soon as I put one of the singles on, it'd break in 3 days tops. They sent me 10 free .010 strings as a replacement. 👌 No questions asked except for me to send a picture of the packaging.
How do you find them for staying in tune? I didn’t like rotisounds because compared to other brands they never seemed to hold their tuning well. And I don’t mean leaving it for a day and coming back. I mean while playing
@@xgreenjacket I've always stretched them in when new and had no problems at all with tuning after that. I use the hybrids on my 3 electrics and they play really well. I recently tried their acoustic strings as well, and I like those. I've not come across the tuning issue, but maybe you got some duff strings. I've used quite a few sets over the years and all have been fine.
I’ve been using Ernie Ball strings forever, and the last time I broke one was 1993 and those were 8’s. I switched to EB 9 Colbalts 15 years ago. Love the Ernie Ball strings and the Colbalts seem to last longer. ✌️😎🎸🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
That was really fun! I agreed with every very tough decision along the way. Keeping in mind, that there is no ‘correct answer’ and yes a lot depends on one’s guitar and personal taste. You do have an excellent ear. Cheers.
Thanks for putting in all the work. The way you talked about the different strings was really helpful because in the end it was all about how they played.
What I could hear is that, at the end, doesn't matter that much which strings you are using if you are good enough at guitar...which is definitely your case! great video btw!! keep going!
I've been using Elixir for a few years now just because I just need a set that lasts longer (and they do). It's a bit expensive but at least I don't buy them as often as other non-coated strings. I'm glad to see the brand go up to the semi's in this test. 🤩
Yeah..they sound great and last quite nicely. I always play a gig with a new set and with sweat and more aggressive picking...they're pretty wasted. But reheasing and practicing? They last and last....which is really where they shine...since most strings are toast after a gig.
@@ponzo1967 I don't have that guitar, but I just re-strung 7 of my guitars. I don't care how "easy" it is, it's still not exactly fun to restring 7 guitars. haha.
Always used Elixirs because any uncoated string just rusty out within a week with my hand sweat even if I clean the strings after playing. Elixirs last like 6-7 months before they even start rusting bad with my playing routine. They’re more expensive outright but they save me so much money in the long run because I’d be spending £5 every couple weeks on strings if I used uncoated.
I don't know what hurt my fingers more.... just watching you totally own the guitar as you play it, or thinking about all of the different strings and how they feel to fingertips, or... the pain of making that many string changes! Fantastic comparison, and one of the very few times that anyone just lets us listen to the tone of what they are playing long enough to feel it! GLORIOUS!!!
I've been playing RotoSound strings for years (reds 0.11 and whites 0.11-0.54). I was just wandering if I should change. They do sound the best to me, but you need to keep them fresh, they loose the tonal spark relatively fast (3-4 weeks), their life span is medium compared to other popular sets I've tried. But this video confirms what I've been thinking for years, definitely the best sounding strings around. Not overpriced and somewhat underrated (most players I talk to are not familiar with them). There's definitely a followup to do here on the 4-5 top sets and how they progress over a month. Thanks for this great comparison!
I've actually been using the rotos for about a year and a half now after a store clerk said that I should try them. In fact I like them the most when they're a bit worn in. I used to change elixir coated ones on every gig (and sometimes practice) when I was gigging regularly. Now I just record mainly and somehow old rotos give me the most joy and bring something nice out of my guitars.
Wow, nice comparison. I've been stuck with roto yellows 10-46 for ages. Since the first time I tried them, noticed they play so well, responsive, they last a really good while for uncoateds and have a good price. I could live with only these. Another nice one is the ones from Dunlop, black package.
Very interesting video! I'm surprised there's not more comments on the Rotosounds. The strings that stuck out to me were the Rotosounds, D'Addario NYXL, Elixir Optiweb, and Harley Benton Coated strings. I've been playing Elixir's exclusively for about 8 years, but the lack of gauges they offer is forcing me to branch out to other brands. This video is a really helpful reference tool. Thanks so much!
Well this was interesting, Paul. A lot of time went into this production, no doubt. This is a really unique comparison, I'd never have thought anyone would be able to pick up the difference between guitar strings. Very eye opening, well done!
I’ve been using the XS’s on both my electrics and acoustics for a while and I absolutely love them. The best part is they actually last a lot longer than uncoated strings. Would love to see an acoustic video!
Ok, that was pretty awesome! I just ordered the three that made it in the top three, plus the DR Pure Blues. Thank you for doing that! I’ve been watching your channel for a few years and the content you have here is absolutely fantastic. Thanks from all of us poor souls in search of good information from someone trustworthy on the internet 👍
I remember when I first started becoming interested in guitar my uncle was a professional musician with a rotosound endorsement seeing as they sponsor a lot of uk artists. He taught me a few things and then gave me a big old goody bag of rotosound gear for the squier strat I had just gotten while telling me that if I try hard enough I could be a real musician. All the rotosound merch I got is actually a big part of what kept me playing in the early days, now almost 7 years later I’ve just been offered a place at the British Institute for Modern Music and I’ve never stopped using their gear. Thank you rotosound. 👌
An interesting comparison! I bought a multi-pack of Rotosounds a while ago and found them to be really decent and very well-priced strings. At the moment I'm trying Nanowebs on several of my guitars after my Yamaha Revstar came fitted with them and I loved the feel. So far they're working well, and I'm erring towards feel in my choice, because I can find the tone I want between the guitar and amp.
- I read that D'Addario did something like "domestication of resources" with the NYXL model and they achieved better quality, more control & durability at a lower cost or something like that. And at the time I bought my 1st NYXL set they were "cheaper than Elixir, similarly priced to Ernie Ball Slinky's" etc at the local (non US) guitar shop here a few years ago. To me they last longer than the similarly priced/more expensive Ernie Ball's (and not to mention the more common D'Addario ones) while having a texture that's slightly easier on my fingers. As in the 10-46 NYXL set kinda feels like 9-46 Ernie Ball Slinky Hybrids here but sounds better than the 10-46 ones by both their own regular/olds and also Ernie Ball's 10-46 ones too... - I guess NYXL is the real winner here for most people for as long as they can keep the pricing under control and not let it fluctuate too much towards the higher side. - Btw did I say that they last a lot longer than both regular/classic D'Addarios and also the similarly priced Ernie Ball's? The real competition they may have with is the Elixir and tone-wise I feel like NYXL is the slightly more versatile of the two, for the price anyway (which I don't feel like going any higher than that).
@@ccelik97 Awesome information! Of course I started with Super Slinky’s and went directly to D’Addario XS, but they were entirely too expensive for me at the time. I have been using NYXL’s for years and I’m so glad to see them get the respect they deserve
Quite interesting, thanks for putting the time in for this! I’ve always loved NYXLs since I first tried them, I wasn’t as into the XS but for the exact opposite reason you picked the XS over the NYXL. I’ve also always liked the sound of Rotosound strings, but found they just don’t last me very long, whereas I also found NYXLs last me an absolute age! Nice to hear it in a test like this where I still preferred them! Super surprised by the Elixirs sounding this good though, I found I didn’t particularly like the electric versions but I love the acoustic ones
My go-to strings are Elixir Poly or Nano. Either is fine by me. Nano are brighter, but for my taste both are great. I play my acoustics and electric darker (in both settings as well as I like using my fingers, and more so side of thumb, for picking). And they last quite a long time. I have gone over a year at times before changing strings. But I am not gigging. I play a lot, but it's not for an audience, and since I like a darker sound, aged strings work great.
This was very interesting. I’ve tried most of the strings you tested. Not back to back like this. But the NYXL have been my favorite. I got a bunch of the EB Cobalts for Xmas from my nephew. So that’ll be my next trial.
@@bmoneybby wasn’t really a big fan actually. Hard to explain why. But they just didn’t really feel good. Almost like they’re heavier and higher tension than the same .010 gauge NYXLs.
Obviously there are a lot of variables that this test couldn't account for. But it was worth it just to hear the real differences between the sets, and to see it confirmed that perceived sound quality doesn't simply follow price. Like most amateur players, I have to consider price and longevity as well as sound. I use D'Addario XLs, which are readily available, reasonably priced, very reliable and quite long-lasting. Having heard this comparison, I may experiment with one of their pricier strings. The winning Rotosounds sounded very good, though, and I do wonder whether for me the D'Addario coated strings would last long enough to justify their much higher price.
I’ve been using NYXL 11’s for a few years now. I was expecting to find something I liked far more but they held up really well. Fantastic shootout, Paul!
Exactly my take. Using the 9.5s 7string though. The scream he didn’t like in them is part of why I love them and has become part of my sound. Total taste issue
Yeah..I love them. I was playing the Elixers on my Malcolm Young sig in my AC/DC band and I would break the D string with regularity...odd, I know. But when I switched to the NYXL's, I've never broken a string no matter how hard I smash the strings, and they sound great.
Great comparison, this must have been exhausting Paul. Pure Blues DR are a very musical string with great feel and I’d like to try some of the other top picks. We have it so good as guitar players, such an easy upgrade!
Every time I put new strings on, I play it more, and within a day or two I'm wanting to polish the frets and condition the fretboard, but I don't feel like messing with all of that unless it's time for a string change
Really interesting idea. I’ve used Daddario NYXL for many years, always was perfect for me. But now I’m really interested to try Roto. thanks for the video!
I've tried almost every brand you have there in the last 25 years. D'Addario .010 Heavy Bottom/Skinny Top was my preferred brand for most of those years. Until 3 years ago, I switched to String Joy's Balance Light 10/60. Best strings for my 6 and 7 stringers hands down. I play every day and they hold up amazingly. Granted I change strings once a month to do maintenance to fretboard and keep my Mayones nice and shiny. Excellent vid as per usual! Happy Holidays!
of course youd want those, theyre made for thrash and metal, but not for what Paul plays. they are throwaway strings, so changign themmonthly like you do makes sense.
@@uncledeadhead3674 Stringjoys are throwaway? I play blues and love them, and I haven't changed a couple of my daily players for over a year and they still sound and feel phenomenal. I use fast fret on them also, mineral oil basically, which keeps them lasting long.
@@sketchstuffs if you havent changed your strings in ayearm you need to learn more about guitars and guitar strings, they corrode after a month or two.
I’d be interested in you trying the Ernie Ball Classic (pure nickel), Curt Mangans and Stringjoy. The DR Pure Blues sounded really good and those black packet DR NYXLs surprised me (as did the price!) Think the video also showed that while there’s some small differences in sound, a good player will sound great no matter the string and a bad player can’t be saved by his strings. Feel is probably a big factor for most which is hard/impossible to get across on a video!
Seems like there is a guitar vs guitar preference happening!... I counted 13-Xs vs 6-Blanks where statistics expect 10 vs 9 or 9 vs 10...There is something more magical about guitar X than guitar Blank! Using sets of the top strings, do component swaps between the two guitars to find out what is the main difference. Start with big chunks like loaded pickguards/neck/body and then go into sub-components if the best tone follows the loaded pickguard pickups/pots/caps.. .. Second item: Do a follow up Strings interview with an industry insider using voice modulation for fun like an old spy movies to explain which string manufacturers make strings for other brands, and which wire manufacturers make the wire that goes to which string manufacturers. My memory of the string industry is one wire supplier (for US made strings) goes to three or four string winding factories supplying the two dozens of string brands.
Though the non-X was felt to be the winner, and they worked to align each guitar, I think you are right there were still differences at play - perhaps inevitable. Maybe the last twist would have been to swap the stringguitar in the final to check the conclusion remained.
It'd be about a 5% chance to choose 13 out of 19 with a truly 50/50 choice. There may be a slight bias, but I also do think that the guitar he chose 6 times did end up with more of the affordable strings that obviously wouldn't hold up as well. I don't think there was a very definitively clear bias in just the guitar, 5% is unlikely but far from unreasonable.
Not really. The sample size has a population of under 100 which does not meet the smallest accepted sample size for such a comparison. With 20 the error margin could be 5%. So that means that X could be as low as 9 or as high as 17 while the blank could be as low as 1 and as high as 10. Since the lowest error corrected value of X (9) and the highest corrected value of the blank was 10 there is 0 statistical information we can father
It's amazing to me that all the ernie ball strings were eliminated in the first round! Guess it's time I branched out! I gotta admit, those Roto strings sounded awesome.
Fantastic video! Can't imagine how much time and labor went into this one. Such fun results. I love hearing how much a set of strings can affect a tone - and now I can gravitate towards the ones that gave me a tone I liked!
As a busy gigging musician, that has what my other musician friends refer to as "Alien Sweat" Once I found Elixir Coated Strings, I never looked back. I can play them now for multiple gigs and not have to change them. Only once they start to get so wore out that the intonation goes out of whack, or I break one, do I have to change them. All other strings I have ever tried, I was changing every gig. And some I would literally kill before the set was over. All of my guitars get Elixir 10-46 strings, always!
A few years ago i went with nickel-free strings and randomly selected Rotosound British Steels, and as luck would have it, they're great strings. A little different in feel but great tone and very long-lasting.
Over many years I've probably used almost as many different strings as in this test. Most were alright, a few not so good, and very few really excellent. I settled on DR for a while and was well- satisfied. Hearing good things about them, I tried a set of Optimum gold-plated strings and I settled on them for a while. I also use a custom set of Thomastik-Infeld .009 flats on my Rick 12 and recently I've tried light flats on my Strat and Jazzmaster. So far, so good. I like the feel and the tone of flat wound strings. They're not soft sounding as some think. After all, virtually all of the R&R and R&B guitar of the '50s and early '60s was played on guitars strung with flats. Yes, even Duane Eddy and Duane Allman.
The acoustic test would be much more difficult. So many variations in wood and tones it would be nearly impossible to find a clear winner. Rosewood, maple, mahogany and walnut sound different… as does the numerous spruce variations. And let’s not even talk about body shape. 😂
@@IAM_Reedy Test would simply be to find his preferred set of strings for whatever standard acoustic he chose. Would be impossible to actually say what is best but enough to separate good from bad, or identify certain characteristics at least.
I recently started using StringJoy strings on my electrics after liking them on my acoustics for several years. Uncoated strings that last like coated strings.
A huge factor when selecting strings for me is their durability and stability. I don't feel like changing strings after 2-3 months so I tend to use coated ones. Elixir and EB Paradigm strings work great for me. Great tones, long life and they can take a beating without going out of tune.
The Daddario XS that went to the finals can last you 5 months at least if you have a minimum care putting the guitar in it case, they are made exactly to last
Okay so you have blown my mind with this, you went through so many strings that I have been trying out and my favourites did well. What I can't believe is that the UK Rotosounds won! They are the chosen strings by my luthier. He doesn't put anything else on guitars. They are great too. Enjoy the festive period and keep up with the awesome content.
It's amazing how we get hooked on brand x and never deviate. I've tried several and happy to see some of my best choices in the top 5. My #1 string for my Stratocaster wasn't even in the mix. But I did hear Paul say something- " I want to hear the guitar, not the strings." Excellent vid. Very original and informative. Thank you.
I think we don’t like the feel of the guitar to ever change once we are used to it. But we can adjust to new strings and new necks fairly quickly if they are good fit for us. So it’s worth the initial pain.
Wow, it must have taken a lot of work to do this video! Thank you for the hard work, it was really useful to hear so many brands compared to each other. Personally I think my favorite were the D'Addario NYXL. To me they had a little extra fullness and brightness that I really liked. And they're reinforced strings too. I personally really don't like the feel of coated strings.
Finally.. there's someone actually put lots of effort to create content like this. Lovin' it..and I've been using roto sound strings as well, never let me down...Thanks
Actually never thought the difference would be this big and I can see how you’d choose different strings depending on the session at hand. Thank you for taking the time.
I personally love the Elixier strings simply because even after a while in the rehearsal room with humidity and hand sweat, they still sound "fresh" and "clean" to me after weeks and even months. Where I've had others feel rusty and "rotten", if I hadn't to put it into words
+1 for Elixir! Been using them for well over a decade because nothing I've played has ever come close to keeping the high end shimmery newness for as long as they do! Best strings for longevity hands down!
I prefer the sound of the XL's but the consistency of elixirs are second to none on any gig rig. They can be quite uneven tho, i had some set's with very high B strings for example.
@@wout69 Wout, judging by your namy, you're Dutch. So lets continue in Dutch. Je komt net kijken zo te horen. Geeft niet. Ook nieuwe snaren kunnen breken. Stem een nieuwe hoge E maar hoger. Tot G. En dan tot een A, C, enz. Op een gegeven moment is het 'Pang!' Dat kun je vergelijken. Luister eens goed naar Rosanna van Toto. Doet Lukather een 5 fret bend. Ik kan je verzekeren dat heel wat snaartjes dan 'Pang'! zeggen. Dat is testen. 6 steps bends of nog hoger plus kijken wat een snaar max kan hebben. Fijne kerst nog.
Excellent video Paul, I'm personally a big fan of NY-XL strings as they can really take a lot of bending and punishment while sounding very consistent.
I have never ever heard of the winning strings, yet they were (to my great surprise) the clear favorite from the get go. Just found myself new strings to try, great video, thank you!
For me the winner was D'addario NYXL's (oh the overtones!), so: 1. D'addario NYXL 2. Rotosound Roto Yellows (match made in heaven with that guitar) 3. D'addario XS +. Harley Benton Coated -not 4th, but for some more heavy taster/sounds (not 'heavy' music genres specifically)
I was really surprised to hear a difference even on my laptop speakers. I'm wondering if the results would have been different if you played on Humbuckers? I'd love to hear a similar test with a different guitar! Love you're content. You've been a big inspiration to me!
My reaction to each set comparison right before Paul gives his pick because why not? Curious how we compare in taste. I love his playing, so(listening on quality Bose Bookshelf/studio speaks. 1. Elixer (creamier sound0 EB (crisp, bright) *Elixer (I prefer a warmer creamier sound off the fingers) 2. DR (the balance is ++ and the attack/response is less harsh)
"You wanna spank it" - translated to "these strings/guitar are calling to you, and you must answer". Get this feeling in a guitar store playing various guitars. When "the one" gets in your hands...this feeling comes out automatically and you start playing harder. I love that. Thanks for doing the work for this to find that one that calls...lot of work!!
I would've been cool if Stringjoy was in this comparison. They are a bit expensive, but I feel like the quality is pretty good. Would be nice to see if that is placebo effect because I paid more!
I've been using Elixir Optiwebs for a while now and they're the best all rounder strings I've tested so far. Although, the best sounding strings I ever played were Rotosounds, the yellow packet, those strings sounded beautiful
@@JetroDamaso if l play the same guitar everyday, probably a cpl of mths mate. I wipe em after playing, change em when the unwounds start.. darkening a bit. How long have ur Elixirs lasted? I tried the earlier sets on an accoustic & didn't like the feel, my mates Maton came with Nanoweb (?) & I didn't notice..so the techs getting better. Edit: sorry mate, thought I was replying to the first bloke. I've used Dunlop's, Slinkys etc & it's probably preference, but l keep going back to Rotos, different sweat might degrade em faster too.
I use nanowebs. I've tried optiwebs too. It's just that I get the sound that I like with the nanowebs and my amp. with the optiweb, I had to mess around a lot with the eq but I could never get the guitar sound in my head unlike with the nanoweb and I'm using the same guitar. tone really is a combination of the three and not just the strings.
Thanks for doing the systematic work for us! Would live to see the same for acoustic strings. I also get lost on deciding between different types of coating materials (long term comparison? )
Paul, thank you for a wonderful video. It was truly pleasant going on this journey with you. My usual strings didn't go so far...lol. So it seems I should get new brands. 😃
I've been using NYXLs for years because they start out a little over bright and then as they wear in they mellow out and I prefer to have at least one practice session on a set of string before I hit the stage to help tuning stability so the NYXLs seem to be right in the sweet spot when I need them. They are expensive for uncoated string though and I've definitely considered swapping I just didn't want to do the work of finding a whole new set of strings I like. I've always found the regular slinkies / gh boomers / d'addarios to sound good for like a day or two then start dropping off real quick. I'm definitely going to be checking out both those finalists though because the rotos are cheaper and the XS are coated so either way they could definitely be worth the switch. I tend to swap my strings before the last practice session before a gig but like having strings that can survive a few gigs just in case I get busy or forget to swap strings until it's too late so those XS strings might be the exact thing I need.
Great video :) Personally I'm using Elixir Nanoweb's due to my severe nickel allergy so coated strings is the only way for me to go. And I might add that they stay in working condition way longer then any strings I've ever used. Expect twice longer life compared to most other strings.
@@R3TR0R4V3 They are all I use. Un coated strings show wear after 2 hours of play. I can play 10+ gigs on elixir. For someone with a bit of a corrosive sweat / oils they are a dream come true.
Right from the get go I really liked the sound of the YELLOW ROTO strings. It has a rich mellow heavy sound. Not thin and tinny, which may be good for some music, but the sound that came from those strings said "I'm sexy, I'm here, listen to me, I have something important to say." I chose the same strings and it was from the very beginning.
That's so funny, Ernie Ball slinky 10 was the first set I would use. Elixir nanoweb 10 are the only strings I use now. I have oily hands and the strings would tarnish after a day and rust after a week, so I love the rust resistance of Elixir strings. But my favorite sounding strings of all time were GHS Boomers. Super bright sounding strings, but they'd only last me a couple weeks.
I am not sweating too much but years ago I had issues with D'Addarios, I loved the sound but yes, they will die for me in a few days. So I switched to elixirs. I think it is combination of me and string materials.
Listen to the album The Who Sell Out, from 1967. They play a bunch of radio and commercial jingles they wrote, and one of them says, "Hold your group together with RotoSound Strings." John Entwhistle used them exclusively. They have been around a long time (made in England), and I have enjoyed using them on both electric and acoustic for quite a few years. Indeed, they are pleasant as you say!
Very interesting. From the first round I thought the Rotos sounded the best. My own choice is Ernie Ball Slinky strings. Interested to see how well the Harley Bentons did for the price too. Fascinating to hear them all like this.
I also use Ernie Ball slinkies or heave bottoms, but I only compared them to D'adarios, and Slinkies seemed to stay bright longer. I never had the chance to try out so many strings. The two two finalists were a pleasant revelation. I might change things up...
I prefer both the Elixir strings you tested. They last much longer and the sound degradation isn't as fast as for uncoated strings. But I have also to admit that lazyness is a problem if you own more than one guitar. So its much appreciated if the change intervals can expand ;)
Yep. I own 20 guitars and have been using Elixir Nanowebs for many years. I wouldn't consider an un-coated string set for the inconvenience and ...THE COST.
Absolutely second this. Don't know what's with the Elixier strings, but they endure my hand sweat and humidity better than some others, which for me is a good point to leaves them on longer when others have already stsrted to feel rusty and unresponsive
Corrections/Additions:
- The right guitar at 15:35 is strung with Elixir Optiweb, instead of the labeled Nanoweb. My dearest apologies!
- We concluded that 4/5 strings in the semi's where coated. But neither the Rotosound Roto Yellows, nor the D'addario NYXL's are coated which makes it 3 out of 5.
So you should, how dare you! Now do it all again correctly! 😋😆😎
How about trying a lighter set of the paradigm strings to be closer to the others, I think maybe the added mass altered things a little.
Great stuff Paul.
(Who did all the string changing? Torture)
what do you normally use? were they in the finals?
Well, they sounded like Nano's so you'll have to do it all again :)
But I have still not seen the final and if the Roto's win, the nano/opti does not matter. I use nano's but, regardless of the result here, next strings I buy will be Rotosound, there is something pleasant extra in the sound they help create.
Great video, must have been a ton of work and I appreciate that a lot. Millions of us guitar nerds get answers to questions we have asked ourselves for years :)
Very interesting. Would love to see an acoustic strings test.
Yesssss, pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeze!
yeees 😁
The best I've found -by far- are Martin silk and steel silver plated
ong i need to know what are the best strings for acoustic
I guess D'Adarrio XS vs Elixir Nanoweb will be like France vs Argentina in the Final WC 2022
Shout out to the person changing the strings for you. An absolute legend in my books! I really despise changing strings but to think they had to keep swapping out the strings and then keeping track of which were which etc... what an incredible job!
I somehow don't think he would've hired someone to change strings for him...
Edit:nevermind, sorry
Its like a 3 minute job .. its so easy..
@@chriswebb383 You’re my hero. 🙄
And pulling curled strings through a string-through strat body no less! Imagine how a big a pain that would be
@@chriswebb383starts crying in Floyd rose
I bet the video took an enormous amount of work. It was fun to watch, and I watched through the end. Thank you.
Wow! Thanks for featuring us!
its incredibely impressive how round and complete your strings sound despite being so cheap, amazing work harley benton!
Whatta great sound!
Honestly, I've never played your strings, but after this video, I'll be buy a few sets for sure! The coated sounded fantastic to me. Thanks for making budget strings that still sound great!
Your coated strings are phenomenal, thank you so much for giving them to us in such insane price. :) Bless you!
I use the cheapest of the 10 gauge from Harley Benton and I love them
I was absolutely not expecting the tone differences to be this significant!
me, a bass player:
what? 60 bucks is expensive?
Plus this is just one player. Pick choice, attack also will factor in.
Me niether
@@datutturugang666 How is that a relevant response to what they just said?
@@danielhutt3158 because there are bass strings costing over 150 bucks easy, on average a good set of strings goes for roughly 40 bucks
I played ernie ball slinkies for so long, but when I tried the NYXLs I just fell in love. Many times I find myself just playing unplugged when they're new since they sound great even by themselves
I have been using the super slinkies for um... ever. Watched the video and decided to go on a " comment hunt." you are the winner! Imma give em a try.
I play the NYXLs too, even though it's hard to find the light top/heavy bottom gauge sometimes. I even liked how they sounded better than the others in this video!
I was so happy to see my precious NYXLs make the semis, only to be taken out by their slightly more expensive brother from d’Adarrio. If they were to lose, that’s how I would’ve wanted it 😂 though I might have to check out the XSs next time I feel like doing a setup 😅
I used to play EB's and then went to NYXL's and loved them, then I tried the XT because I was told that the coating is very minimal and they're my new standard. They feel just like regular strings, just a TINY bit more slick. And they seem to last a very long time before they get dull or start to peel or anything. I've had some on one of my guitars for a year or more without any sign of corrosion.
I stand firm with my choice of strings, NYXL’s are some of my favorite strings out there and I use D’Addario for both my electric and acoustic guitar. They’re a bit more expensive, but I change my strings maybe twice a year and they’ve never given me a problem. In the end, they’re super durable and great quality. They actually save you money since you don’t have to change them often if you don’t want to.
This video is insane… SUPER useful, especially for someone like me that has a very basic untrained ear/just a casual with guitar. Major props to you and your team on all the strings swapping and planning that went into this! I’d love to see an acoustic version sometime in the future as well
Why is it useful if you cant tell the difference? Just buy the cheapest strings and change when it doesn’t sound good or breaks.
@@nirhershkovitz2416 Because he’s describing different qualities to the sounds from each string, which is great ear training for me. At the current moment I can tell if I like or don’t like a sound, but it’s hard for me to pinpoint why - with his descriptions I’m learning a bit more about what makes up the sounds I enjoy in reference to guitar (and their strings)
Also, the vid is just useful in general as a mini encyclopedia of different guitar string sounds
Every guitarist watching this is gonna be massively grateful to you! Would take some of us years to reach these kind of conclusions. Never heard the XS before and soon as I heard them in this video thought they'd win, but the rotos do sound fuller with really nice low end
Interesting that the low budget Harley Benton strings did not get kicked out straight away. They did a great job for that price point. In the end the winner is also very affordable. You could also repeat that shoot out in a mixing context, how the strings help to cut through the mix and sit well :-)
I've never understood how something that's not so good, but is considered great for a low price, is a good thing?
That just reconfirms the fact that cheap stuff sucks.
@@SpaceCatttttthis is the dumbest thing ive ever read, the 3,90€ strings, holded up, and in this case he liked them better than the Gibson 10€ ones, so for 4 €, are really good for their price, they can charge you more for the strings if you want but, this shows you that cheap things arent always trash, in this case, the cheap ones holded up very well and won against more expensive ones, so, some "expensive shit" ones, were trashier than the "cheaper shit" ones, telling you, that cheaper, does not mean worse.
I have Harleys on different guitars, and except for the 1€ set, the HQ and coated sets are top notch
@@SpaceCatttttGood enough is good enough. I don't play concerts, I don't hear the difference myself all that well, I'm just plucking away in the privacy of my own room. So why pay 10x as much when there's no perceived difference?
@@paulnieuwkamp8067 If you don't hear or feel the difference, then no, there's no reason why you should buy good strings...
While not my favorites, I am extremely surprised and impressed about the harley benton coated strings. For the price, they are phenomenal
Yeah, that company seems to be a screaming deal across the board relative to the $$$
Jup, thought the same. I quite like them.
Exactly what I thought as well. Don't know how long they last, but I guess I'm gonna try them out next time I need a new set.
Definitely gonna try those next
Yeah
The guitar with the "X" wins A LOT of the time. I wonder if it's just the nicer sounding guitar? I know they're identical production models, but there are differences in weight, resonance and sustain between factory examples
Guitar X sounds best because it has tone tape on it.
They way you describe the different strings is so brilliant. True professional.
Yeah brilliant..he should work for a marketing team selling strings 😂
Splurd.
I love the way you performed this test. Not an easy thing to pull off. Thank you!!
Or hammer on.
I’ve been running elixir strings for over 15 years now on my electric and acoustic guitars. Although they may not sound the best out of the box, they really just last forever and the sound quality after weeks or months is still fantastic (to me). I tried buying cheaper non-coated strings many times with hopes of finding something better, but always am let down when I find myself changing strings in less than a month (I live close to the beach).
Very cool video!
Elixir Strings come in 2 very different flavors. d'addarios or GHS Boomers. No way to know which ones you have. I worked at the company and later the plant when these were developed and manufactured (17 years). Yes, this is 100% fact!
@@devinsinderwitcz9134 please elaborate
I second that … They do last extremely well.
Usefully Elixir sell three different levels of ‘brightness’; Nanoewb, Polyweb and Optiweb. If you have a particularly bright guitar you can calm it down with the duller strings and visa versa.
As someone who also lives near the beach, absolutely agree, havent had any strings last as long 👍
So far, I've been lucky. My current acoustic guitar has the same factory strings that it came with late in 2017.
Could you please do this video again but for acoustic strings? Keep up the awesome work Paul!
Oh that'd be great. Im so insecure what strings I should get next (which is probably soon xD).
@@brockmann4815 : Depends on what kind of music you play…
I like D’Addario Phosphor Bronze
and D’Addario Nickel Wound for electric.
@@brockmann4815my two cents, I am a big fan of Martin Retro 12’s and Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze
for acoustic elixir nanowebs last forever
Was pleased to see my two brands (D'Addario and Elixir) fared very well. Also surprised to see how well the Harley Benton strings performed at such a low price. Great video my friend!
Low prices = China. That's all I need to hear. When is the guitar community going to wake up and reject the idea of supporting the CCP? They hate us and want to destroy us - what else do you need to know?
@@78tag Attempting to parse my purchases into what's built where is something I have neither the time nor the inclination to do. I seriously doubt that the Chinese are attempting take over the world via budget guitar strings. Lol. Have a great day!
That was interesting. Thank you for taking the time to do all that work! I would love to see this again with humbuckers (particularly on your SG).
Yeah, and compare the overdriven sounds straight into the amp.
Thanks Paul for validating me being a Rotosound yellow guy for years :) They last long as well. I used to use them in a hard rock band and they also work great today for my post-rock/space rock project I'm in.
The Edge uses rotosound
I'm in on the Yellows...great to hear your input on durability. Sold me 👊👍😎
My main strings are the Roto Ultramags, 10-46 on some guitar and 9-42 on others. They are super bright and stay bright for a long time which makes them perfect for the music I play (60's and 70's rock eg. Rush, The Who, Iron Butterfly).
I switched to DR strings a couple years ago, and I love how they sound and how they age. More presence without being too harsh. Brings out overtones in the guitars and inspires my playing. Especially in acoustic. I'll have to try the roto strings
Been rocking the DR Pure Blues for over 10 years now. I just found what I liked and never looked back.
What is that black tape on his guitar ?
Same. I had an es-335 with a naturally mellow, warm sound and wanted that in my other guitars. I added them to a goldtop p90 and it sounded incredible. Now they are my go-to strings.
Interesting. I have used many strings over the years and have always returned to D’Addario. I prefer the tones they produce and their durability. Currently using D’Addario XL strings (EXL 115-3D to be exact) and love the sound. I use heavier gauge (11-14-18-28-38-49) strings for comfort. I was finding that 10 and lower would sometimes slice into my callouses. I could relieve this with less pressure on the neck, but it’s they way I play.😁
I have also had good luck with D'Addario as far as durability goes, but I wish that they would step up the gauge on the G string in these sets. Always seems one step too light to me.
@@vincent8736 I’ve been using D’Addario strings since 1985, very few problems. I’ve kept sets of these and the NYXL strings on for five plus years without issue. I just change them out when they sound dull. I haven’t broken a string (even with aggressive bending and trem bar dives) in over 20 years.
@@vincent8736 Elixir strings are damn good strings, I just prefer the feel of the D’Addario strings and like supporting a local company.
XL(9) really good, but damm they kinda expensive if you only break the 1st strings and second string only
@Vincent probably because the longer scale of Tele then. Now I just buy the first string separately and that's enough for practice and also I can save the money to buy more pedals. Did you change all the strings when you broke your first string?
I have switched to Rotosound pinks 42-9 . They are reasonably priced, and they are incredibly durable, plus they stay in tune. I also put Rotosounds on my 7 String. Very happy with them. They are the best strings I have used.
I think they're also the best sounding strings in this video. I'll have to try em
I use the Rotos and can say they are great strings! Used them back in the 70's for a bit until they became too hard to get! I have picked them back up again and love them! They feel good and last a fairly long time!
Do you picture of roto strings?
@@jessenpanelo1434 it's on the video toward the end
I switched to the Harley Benton Coated a few years ago. So far I've seen decent sound output for 2-3 months per set, but it obviously varies with wear and tear. Price was the main factor for me.
Great video!
Very pleased to see Rotosound the winner… I’ve always recognised these strings as my favourite. They really bring out the ‘woodiness’ of my Strat. Though, I have to say, I only get one or two gigs out of them before they sound quite dull.
I’ve always steered away from coated strings too… but this video has encouraged me to try some out.🎸🔥
Rotosound Jumbo King for Acoustic Guitar 👌👍💪
They didn't last long on my Jumbo, corroded and Went sticky and ergh! After 10wks with me
@@noname1st139 10 weeks isn't long enough....?
We feel like Messi felt yesterday 🏆 Cheers for the hard work and scrutiny that you put into the creation of this tournament, Paul.
They sound spicy! Gonna buy some! (hope they last as long as the nyxls.. we'll see! ;)
Congratulations on the big win Rotosound!
England didn't win the football but they won the strings.
My personal favorite bass strings
Rotosound RS66LDN Swing Bass 66 Nickel Roundwound
I'll always remember that one I used a set of Roto Yellows on a guitar for 4 years straight, 1 single set, never broke any of the strings and ok the sound did change but... 4 years... that alone makes Rotosound an absolute winner to me, I gotta find more of these here in FL definitely
I actually loved the wackiness of the DR Pure Blue strings. Might have to try a pair myself
DR have an impressive ‘squish’ so you can hit them hard but they don’t feel stiff. The magnetic core of the nickel wound string is round not hexagon shape. Fat sounding.
DR blues in my case have been very defective. I don’t recommend them at all.
These have been my go-to for years. The winding is pure Nickel instead of nickel plating. I feel it makes them more springy, also more heavy, and they don't corrode as quickly as Nickel-plated strings IME.
@@Stephenmichaelsguitar I haven't tried the Blues - I had some quality control issues with DR Tite Fits a few years ago, but the recent sets I've had have been great. For the money the Tite-Fits are very good IMO but they are darker so I generally use them with single-coils.
@@Stephenmichaelsguitar +1 on that. I used them for years on my Strat. I loved the sound and the way they felt, but they were unreliable and let me down too many times in a live situation. That's been 20 years ago, and I hear that things have improved. Watching this has tempted me to pick up another set, but once bitten twice shy. I'm currently playing NYXLs but I'm going to try the Roto-Yellows.
Love my D'addarios! Glad to see them represent in this shootout with multiple versions!
I was very impressed with the Harley Benton strings considering the price.
I've been using Rotosound Hybrids (Orange) for years. They sound great, don't cost a fortune and you also get a spare high E, which is always appreciated!
Seriously? Wish I had known they give an extra high E. My Tele was breaking high e's every few days a little while back. Turns out the set of five single 10s I got from D'addario must have been bad. If I used a normal set of 10s, high E lasted forever. As soon as I put one of the singles on, it'd break in 3 days tops.
They sent me 10 free .010 strings as a replacement. 👌 No questions asked except for me to send a picture of the packaging.
How do you find them for staying in tune? I didn’t like rotisounds because compared to other brands they never seemed to hold their tuning well. And I don’t mean leaving it for a day and coming back. I mean while playing
@@xgreenjacket I've always stretched them in when new and had no problems at all with tuning after that. I use the hybrids on my 3 electrics and they play really well. I recently tried their acoustic strings as well, and I like those. I've not come across the tuning issue, but maybe you got some duff strings. I've used quite a few sets over the years and all have been fine.
I’ve been using Ernie Ball strings forever, and the last time I broke one was 1993 and those were 8’s. I switched to EB 9 Colbalts 15 years ago. Love the Ernie Ball strings and the Colbalts seem to last longer. ✌️😎🎸🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
I think all of us appreciate the huge amount of work this represents. Thanks so much for the dedication to the craft!
That was really fun! I agreed with every very tough decision along the way. Keeping in mind, that there is no ‘correct answer’ and yes a lot depends on one’s guitar and personal taste. You do have an excellent ear. Cheers.
Thanks for putting in all the work. The way you talked about the different strings was really helpful because in the end it was all about how they played.
What I could hear is that, at the end, doesn't matter that much which strings you are using if you are good enough at guitar...which is definitely your case! great video btw!! keep going!
Incredible work! I would love to see also the same thing but for the acoustic guitar! Awesome as always Paul
I've been using Elixir for a few years now just because I just need a set that lasts longer (and they do). It's a bit expensive but at least I don't buy them as often as other non-coated strings.
I'm glad to see the brand go up to the semi's in this test. 🤩
Yeah..they sound great and last quite nicely. I always play a gig with a new set and with sweat and more aggressive picking...they're pretty wasted. But reheasing and practicing? They last and last....which is really where they shine...since most strings are toast after a gig.
Cleartone sounds more natural and maintained the tone for a long long time, specially if you clean it with a flannel after playing
Stringing an Ibanez RG 550 with the Edge tremolo so durability is a factor. RG+ rarely needs tuned RG- a bitch to string
@@ponzo1967 I don't have that guitar, but I just re-strung 7 of my guitars. I don't care how "easy" it is, it's still not exactly fun to restring 7 guitars. haha.
Always used Elixirs because any uncoated string just rusty out within a week with my hand sweat even if I clean the strings after playing. Elixirs last like 6-7 months before they even start rusting bad with my playing routine. They’re more expensive outright but they save me so much money in the long run because I’d be spending £5 every couple weeks on strings if I used uncoated.
I was playing Roto Blues, but I liked how those Yellows sounded. I'm going to try some
Bare knuckle sends you a free set for each pickup ordered there. So now I've got a few Yellows sitting somewhere. Should try them on.
I don't know what hurt my fingers more.... just watching you totally own the guitar as you play it, or thinking about all of the different strings and how they feel to fingertips, or... the pain of making that many string changes! Fantastic comparison, and one of the very few times that anyone just lets us listen to the tone of what they are playing long enough to feel it! GLORIOUS!!!
I've been playing RotoSound strings for years (reds 0.11 and whites 0.11-0.54). I was just wandering if I should change. They do sound the best to me, but you need to keep them fresh, they loose the tonal spark relatively fast (3-4 weeks), their life span is medium compared to other popular sets I've tried. But this video confirms what I've been thinking for years, definitely the best sounding strings around. Not overpriced and somewhat underrated (most players I talk to are not familiar with them).
There's definitely a followup to do here on the 4-5 top sets and how they progress over a month. Thanks for this great comparison!
I've actually been using the rotos for about a year and a half now after a store clerk said that I should try them. In fact I like them the most when they're a bit worn in. I used to change elixir coated ones on every gig (and sometimes practice) when I was gigging regularly. Now I just record mainly and somehow old rotos give me the most joy and bring something nice out of my guitars.
Wow, nice comparison. I've been stuck with roto yellows 10-46 for ages. Since the first time I tried them, noticed they play so well, responsive, they last a really good while for uncoateds and have a good price. I could live with only these. Another nice one is the ones from Dunlop, black package.
Very interesting video! I'm surprised there's not more comments on the Rotosounds.
The strings that stuck out to me were the Rotosounds, D'Addario NYXL, Elixir Optiweb, and Harley Benton Coated strings.
I've been playing Elixir's exclusively for about 8 years, but the lack of gauges they offer is forcing me to branch out to other brands. This video is a really helpful reference tool. Thanks so much!
Great work and a large undertaking. I really liked the sound of the Rotosound strings as well.
Well this was interesting, Paul. A lot of time went into this production, no doubt. This is a really unique comparison, I'd never have thought anyone would be able to pick up the difference between guitar strings. Very eye opening, well done!
Well I suggest you try out a few different strings. Feel and sound can be very different. Especially on acoustic.
I’ve been using the XS’s on both my electrics and acoustics for a while and I absolutely love them. The best part is they actually last a lot longer than uncoated strings. Would love to see an acoustic video!
Ok, that was pretty awesome! I just ordered the three that made it in the top three, plus the DR Pure Blues. Thank you for doing that! I’ve been watching your channel for a few years and the content you have here is absolutely fantastic. Thanks from all of us poor souls in search of good information from someone trustworthy on the internet 👍
I remember when I first started becoming interested in guitar my uncle was a professional musician with a rotosound endorsement seeing as they sponsor a lot of uk artists. He taught me a few things and then gave me a big old goody bag of rotosound gear for the squier strat I had just gotten while telling me that if I try hard enough I could be a real musician. All the rotosound merch I got is actually a big part of what kept me playing in the early days, now almost 7 years later I’ve just been offered a place at the British Institute for Modern Music and I’ve never stopped using their gear. Thank you rotosound. 👌
An interesting comparison! I bought a multi-pack of Rotosounds a while ago and found them to be really decent and very well-priced strings. At the moment I'm trying Nanowebs on several of my guitars after my Yamaha Revstar came fitted with them and I loved the feel. So far they're working well, and I'm erring towards feel in my choice, because I can find the tone I want between the guitar and amp.
Great video Paul! I play the NYXL and honestly they still come out as a winner. But I’m not feeling that bad anymore paying a lot for strings 😂
Sameeee I was sitting here literally cheering them on haha
- I read that D'Addario did something like "domestication of resources" with the NYXL model and they achieved better quality, more control & durability at a lower cost or something like that. And at the time I bought my 1st NYXL set they were "cheaper than Elixir, similarly priced to Ernie Ball Slinky's" etc at the local (non US) guitar shop here a few years ago. To me they last longer than the similarly priced/more expensive Ernie Ball's (and not to mention the more common D'Addario ones) while having a texture that's slightly easier on my fingers. As in the 10-46 NYXL set kinda feels like 9-46 Ernie Ball Slinky Hybrids here but sounds better than the 10-46 ones by both their own regular/olds and also Ernie Ball's 10-46 ones too...
- I guess NYXL is the real winner here for most people for as long as they can keep the pricing under control and not let it fluctuate too much towards the higher side.
- Btw did I say that they last a lot longer than both regular/classic D'Addarios and also the similarly priced Ernie Ball's? The real competition they may have with is the Elixir and tone-wise I feel like NYXL is the slightly more versatile of the two, for the price anyway (which I don't feel like going any higher than that).
@@ccelik97 Awesome information! Of course I started with Super Slinky’s and went directly to D’Addario XS, but they were entirely too expensive for me at the time. I have been using NYXL’s for years and I’m so glad to see them get the respect they deserve
Same here. But they're also coated so they'll last longer.
Quite interesting, thanks for putting the time in for this! I’ve always loved NYXLs since I first tried them, I wasn’t as into the XS but for the exact opposite reason you picked the XS over the NYXL. I’ve also always liked the sound of Rotosound strings, but found they just don’t last me very long, whereas I also found NYXLs last me an absolute age! Nice to hear it in a test like this where I still preferred them! Super surprised by the Elixirs sounding this good though, I found I didn’t particularly like the electric versions but I love the acoustic ones
My go-to strings are Elixir Poly or Nano. Either is fine by me. Nano are brighter, but for my taste both are great. I play my acoustics and electric darker (in both settings as well as I like using my fingers, and more so side of thumb, for picking). And they last quite a long time. I have gone over a year at times before changing strings. But I am not gigging. I play a lot, but it's not for an audience, and since I like a darker sound, aged strings work great.
This was very interesting. I’ve tried most of the strings you tested. Not back to back like this. But the NYXL have been my favorite. I got a bunch of the EB Cobalts for Xmas from my nephew. So that’ll be my next trial.
Me too, tho I'm using Elixir optiwounds alot too, but NYXL have been my favorite for a while now.
How did you like the Cobalt's?
@@bmoneybby wasn’t really a big fan actually. Hard to explain why. But they just didn’t really feel good. Almost like they’re heavier and higher tension than the same .010 gauge NYXLs.
Obviously there are a lot of variables that this test couldn't account for. But it was worth it just to hear the real differences between the sets, and to see it confirmed that perceived sound quality doesn't simply follow price. Like most amateur players, I have to consider price and longevity as well as sound. I use D'Addario XLs, which are readily available, reasonably priced, very reliable and quite long-lasting. Having heard this comparison, I may experiment with one of their pricier strings. The winning Rotosounds sounded very good, though, and I do wonder whether for me the D'Addario coated strings would last long enough to justify their much higher price.
Having used them since they came out, the XS last WAY longer (3-4x). Certainly justifies the price.
I’ve been using NYXL 11’s for a few years now. I was expecting to find something I liked far more but they held up really well. Fantastic shootout, Paul!
Exactly my take. Using the 9.5s 7string though. The scream he didn’t like in them is part of why I love them and has become part of my sound. Total taste issue
Yeah..I love them. I was playing the Elixers on my Malcolm Young sig in my AC/DC band and I would break the D string with regularity...odd, I know. But when I switched to the NYXL's, I've never broken a string no matter how hard I smash the strings, and they sound great.
I love NYXL string, but String Joy strings better.
@@A_A_ron-Phillips Never seen them in a store in California.
@@zublacus- online order only.
Great comparison, this must have been exhausting Paul.
Pure Blues DR are a very musical string with great feel and I’d like to try some of the other top picks. We have it so good as guitar players, such an easy upgrade!
Every time I put new strings on, I play it more, and within a day or two I'm wanting to polish the frets and condition the fretboard, but I don't feel like messing with all of that unless it's time for a string change
After watching this video, I really enjoyed seeing the difference strings make. And I love this kind of test. I would like to see more of this.
Really interesting idea. I’ve used Daddario NYXL for many years, always was perfect for me. But now I’m really interested to try Roto. thanks for the video!
All I can say is me too. Definitely will try a set of the Rotos next change.
I've tried almost every brand you have there in the last 25 years. D'Addario .010 Heavy Bottom/Skinny Top was my preferred brand for most of those years. Until 3 years ago, I switched to String Joy's Balance Light 10/60. Best strings for my 6 and 7 stringers hands down. I play every day and they hold up amazingly. Granted I change strings once a month to do maintenance to fretboard and keep my Mayones nice and shiny. Excellent vid as per usual! Happy Holidays!
I agree wholeheartedly! Stringjoys Balanced 10-48 set would probably be the winner in this test (just my opinion...).
I fell in love with stringjoys
of course youd want those, theyre made for thrash and metal, but not for what Paul plays. they are throwaway strings, so changign themmonthly like you do makes sense.
@@uncledeadhead3674 Stringjoys are throwaway? I play blues and love them, and I haven't changed a couple of my daily players for over a year and they still sound and feel phenomenal. I use fast fret on them also, mineral oil basically, which keeps them lasting long.
@@sketchstuffs if you havent changed your strings in ayearm you need to learn more about guitars and guitar strings, they corrode after a month or two.
I’d be interested in you trying the Ernie Ball Classic (pure nickel), Curt Mangans and Stringjoy. The DR Pure Blues sounded really good and those black packet DR NYXLs surprised me (as did the price!)
Think the video also showed that while there’s some small differences in sound, a good player will sound great no matter the string and a bad player can’t be saved by his strings. Feel is probably a big factor for most which is hard/impossible to get across on a video!
Seems like there is a guitar vs guitar preference happening!... I counted 13-Xs vs 6-Blanks where statistics expect 10 vs 9 or 9 vs 10...There is something more magical about guitar X than guitar Blank! Using sets of the top strings, do component swaps between the two guitars to find out what is the main difference. Start with big chunks like loaded pickguards/neck/body and then go into sub-components if the best tone follows the loaded pickguard pickups/pots/caps.. .. Second item: Do a follow up Strings interview with an industry insider using voice modulation for fun like an old spy movies to explain which string manufacturers make strings for other brands, and which wire manufacturers make the wire that goes to which string manufacturers. My memory of the string industry is one wire supplier (for US made strings) goes to three or four string winding factories supplying the two dozens of string brands.
Though the non-X was felt to be the winner, and they worked to align each guitar, I think you are right there were still differences at play - perhaps inevitable. Maybe the last twist would have been to swap the stringguitar in the final to check the conclusion remained.
Not a large enough sample size to expect a 50/50 split. Maybe if he tried 1000 strings your point would be valid
It'd be about a 5% chance to choose 13 out of 19 with a truly 50/50 choice. There may be a slight bias, but I also do think that the guitar he chose 6 times did end up with more of the affordable strings that obviously wouldn't hold up as well. I don't think there was a very definitively clear bias in just the guitar, 5% is unlikely but far from unreasonable.
Not really. The sample size has a population of under 100 which does not meet the smallest accepted sample size for such a comparison. With 20 the error margin could be 5%. So that means that X could be as low as 9 or as high as 17 while the blank could be as low as 1 and as high as 10. Since the lowest error corrected value of X (9) and the highest corrected value of the blank was 10 there is 0 statistical information we can father
It's amazing to me that all the ernie ball strings were eliminated in the first round! Guess it's time I branched out! I gotta admit, those Roto strings sounded awesome.
Fantastic video! Can't imagine how much time and labor went into this one. Such fun results. I love hearing how much a set of strings can affect a tone - and now I can gravitate towards the ones that gave me a tone I liked!
As a busy gigging musician, that has what my other musician friends refer to as "Alien Sweat" Once I found Elixir Coated Strings, I never looked back. I can play them now for multiple gigs and not have to change them. Only once they start to get so wore out that the intonation goes out of whack, or I break one, do I have to change them. All other strings I have ever tried, I was changing every gig. And some I would literally kill before the set was over. All of my guitars get Elixir 10-46 strings, always!
100000%. Polyweb 9-42s are my biggest love
A few years ago i went with nickel-free strings and randomly selected Rotosound British Steels, and as luck would have it, they're great strings. A little different in feel but great tone and very long-lasting.
Over many years I've probably used almost as many different strings as in this test. Most were alright, a few not so good, and very few really excellent. I settled on DR for a while and was well- satisfied.
Hearing good things about them, I tried a set of Optimum gold-plated strings and I settled on them for a while. I also use a custom set of Thomastik-Infeld .009 flats on my Rick 12 and recently I've tried light flats on my Strat and Jazzmaster.
So far, so good. I like the feel and the tone of flat wound strings. They're not soft sounding as some think. After all, virtually all of the R&R and R&B guitar of the '50s and early '60s was played on guitars strung with flats. Yes, even Duane Eddy and Duane Allman.
18:15 you have really captured your essence. I like how all the millions of hours show in your guitar wall. Wow. you're my friend
Would absolutely love the same video but for acoustic strings. Never know what to buy.
The acoustic test would be much more difficult. So many variations in wood and tones it would be nearly impossible to find a clear winner. Rosewood, maple, mahogany and walnut sound different… as does the numerous spruce variations. And let’s not even talk about body shape. 😂
@@IAM_Reedy Test would simply be to find his preferred set of strings for whatever standard acoustic he chose. Would be impossible to actually say what is best but enough to separate good from bad, or identify certain characteristics at least.
Enjoyed this tournament and just after the World Cup. What timing!! Paul, could you do this with acoustic guitar - stings?
I recently started using StringJoy strings on my electrics after liking them on my acoustics for several years. Uncoated strings that last like coated strings.
A huge factor when selecting strings for me is their durability and stability. I don't feel like changing strings after 2-3 months so I tend to use coated ones. Elixir and EB Paradigm strings work great for me. Great tones, long life and they can take a beating without going out of tune.
The Daddario XS that went to the finals can last you 5 months at least if you have a minimum care putting the guitar in it case, they are made exactly to last
Dude I use elixirs and I love them but my high E string is always popping on me like every other month lol.
Okay so you have blown my mind with this, you went through so many strings that I have been trying out and my favourites did well.
What I can't believe is that the UK Rotosounds won!
They are the chosen strings by my luthier. He doesn't put anything else on guitars.
They are great too.
Enjoy the festive period and keep up with the awesome content.
It's amazing how we get hooked on brand x and never deviate. I've tried several and happy to see some of my best choices in the top 5. My #1 string for my Stratocaster wasn't even in the mix. But I did hear Paul say something- " I want to hear the guitar, not the strings." Excellent vid. Very original and informative. Thank you.
Yes. But in reality you only ever hear the strings.
I think we don’t like the feel of the guitar to ever change once we are used to it.
But we can adjust to new strings and new necks fairly quickly if they are good fit for us. So it’s worth the initial pain.
What is your number 1?
@@ImpostorModanica Stringjoy Signatures. Makes your Strat- Stratey and your Les Paul- Les Pauley
@@jeffmartinez6073 lol sounds good. Thank you!
Wow, it must have taken a lot of work to do this video! Thank you for the hard work, it was really useful to hear so many brands compared to each other. Personally I think my favorite were the D'Addario NYXL. To me they had a little extra fullness and brightness that I really liked. And they're reinforced strings too. I personally really don't like the feel of coated strings.
Check out the Elixir Optiweb's, they feel pretty good, almost like they are not coated. I hate the feel of the nanowebs and polys, way to slippery
A lot of work, sure. Buy I bet Paul had some help with stringing
I've been using the NYXL's for about 2 years now and love them
@@Angellus502 I did try the Elixir Optiweb's once. Still didn't like them. They felt a little stiff to me 🤷♂️
@@nate_ock I've been using NYXL's for a few years as well and I like them a lot.
Great video. Would love to see them tested with an EQ pallet display to get a visual of the tones.
Finally.. there's someone actually put lots of effort to create content like this. Lovin' it..and I've been using roto sound strings as well, never let me down...Thanks
Actually never thought the difference would be this big and I can see how you’d choose different strings depending on the session at hand.
Thank you for taking the time.
I personally love the Elixier strings simply because even after a while in the rehearsal room with humidity and hand sweat, they still sound "fresh" and "clean" to me after weeks and even months. Where I've had others feel rusty and "rotten", if I hadn't to put it into words
Had the same experience. Hard to top Elixir when it comes down to sweat! The last for ages!❤
+1 for Elixir! Been using them for well over a decade because nothing I've played has ever come close to keeping the high end shimmery newness for as long as they do! Best strings for longevity hands down!
I prefer the sound of the XL's but the consistency of elixirs are second to none on any gig rig. They can be quite uneven tho, i had some set's with very high B strings for example.
For me, it has always been how long the strings keep their brightness that makes them value for money.
And than after two days, your superbright B string breaks.... bye bye bright set of strings..... time for a nrw set!
@@josschmitz9400 Breaking a new string after two days? Maybe you should work on your right hand technique.
@@wout69 Wout, judging by your namy, you're Dutch. So lets continue in Dutch.
Je komt net kijken zo te horen. Geeft niet. Ook nieuwe snaren kunnen breken. Stem een nieuwe hoge E maar hoger. Tot G. En dan tot een A, C, enz. Op een gegeven moment is het 'Pang!' Dat kun je vergelijken.
Luister eens goed naar Rosanna van Toto. Doet Lukather een 5 fret bend. Ik kan je verzekeren dat heel wat snaartjes dan 'Pang'! zeggen. Dat is testen. 6 steps bends of nog hoger plus kijken wat een snaar max kan hebben.
Fijne kerst nog.
Excellent video Paul, I'm personally a big fan of NY-XL strings as they can really take a lot of bending and punishment while sounding very consistent.
I have never broken a string literally smashing them as "Malcolm" in an AC/DC band.
I have never ever heard of the winning strings, yet they were (to my great surprise) the clear favorite from the get go. Just found myself new strings to try, great video, thank you!
For me the winner was D'addario NYXL's (oh the overtones!), so:
1. D'addario NYXL
2. Rotosound Roto Yellows (match made in heaven with that guitar)
3. D'addario XS
+. Harley Benton Coated -not 4th, but for some more heavy taster/sounds (not 'heavy' music genres specifically)
Having gone through many brands over the years, I have settled on Rotosounds. I like the blue packet pure nickel ones.
I was really surprised to hear a difference even on my laptop speakers. I'm wondering if the results would have been different if you played on Humbuckers? I'd love to hear a similar test with a different guitar! Love you're content. You've been a big inspiration to me!
yes!!! LP humbeckers
My reaction to each set comparison right before Paul gives his pick because why not?
Curious how we compare in taste. I love his playing, so(listening on quality Bose Bookshelf/studio speaks.
1. Elixer (creamier sound0 EB (crisp, bright)
*Elixer (I prefer a warmer creamier sound off the fingers)
2. DR (the balance is ++ and the attack/response is less harsh)
"You wanna spank it" - translated to "these strings/guitar are calling to you, and you must answer". Get this feeling in a guitar store playing various guitars. When "the one" gets in your hands...this feeling comes out automatically and you start playing harder. I love that. Thanks for doing the work for this to find that one that calls...lot of work!!
I would've been cool if Stringjoy was in this comparison. They are a bit expensive, but I feel like the quality is pretty good. Would be nice to see if that is placebo effect because I paid more!
I've been using Elixir Optiwebs for a while now and they're the best all rounder strings I've tested so far. Although, the best sounding strings I ever played were Rotosounds, the yellow packet, those strings sounded beautiful
I've not tried Elixirs, might give em a go.
I've used Roto yellows for yrs...gd strings.
I use nothing but polyweb 9-42, they're actually magic
@@baabaabaa2293 how long does it last? in terms of rust and tone degradation?
@@JetroDamaso if l play the same guitar everyday, probably a cpl of mths mate. I wipe em after playing, change em when the unwounds start.. darkening a bit.
How long have ur Elixirs lasted?
I tried the earlier sets on an accoustic & didn't like the feel, my mates Maton came with Nanoweb (?) & I didn't notice..so the techs getting better.
Edit: sorry mate, thought I was replying to the first bloke.
I've used Dunlop's, Slinkys etc & it's probably preference, but l keep going back to Rotos, different sweat might degrade em faster too.
I use nanowebs. I've tried optiwebs too. It's just that I get the sound that I like with the nanowebs and my amp. with the optiweb, I had to mess around a lot with the eq but I could never get the guitar sound in my head unlike with the nanoweb and I'm using the same guitar. tone really is a combination of the three and not just the strings.
Thanks for doing the systematic work for us! Would live to see the same for acoustic strings. I also get lost on deciding between different types of coating materials (long term comparison? )
Paul, thank you for a wonderful video. It was truly pleasant going on this journey with you. My usual strings didn't go so far...lol. So it seems I should get new brands. 😃
I've been using NYXLs for years because they start out a little over bright and then as they wear in they mellow out and I prefer to have at least one practice session on a set of string before I hit the stage to help tuning stability so the NYXLs seem to be right in the sweet spot when I need them. They are expensive for uncoated string though and I've definitely considered swapping I just didn't want to do the work of finding a whole new set of strings I like. I've always found the regular slinkies / gh boomers / d'addarios to sound good for like a day or two then start dropping off real quick.
I'm definitely going to be checking out both those finalists though because the rotos are cheaper and the XS are coated so either way they could definitely be worth the switch. I tend to swap my strings before the last practice session before a gig but like having strings that can survive a few gigs just in case I get busy or forget to swap strings until it's too late so those XS strings might be the exact thing I need.
Man, this was amazing! You should do an acoustic string test next. Thank you for doing these vids!
Great video :) Personally I'm using Elixir Nanoweb's due to my severe nickel allergy so coated strings is the only way for me to go. And I might add that they stay in working condition way longer then any strings I've ever used. Expect twice longer life compared to most other strings.
They definitely outlast any other string brand I've tried so far. A bit expensive maybe, but worth it. YMMV 👍
@@R3TR0R4V3 They are all I use. Un coated strings show wear after 2 hours of play. I can play 10+ gigs on elixir. For someone with a bit of a corrosive sweat / oils they are a dream come true.
@@aaron_768 sweaty hands gang 🤙🏻
Im with y’all. Elixirs last the longest and that’s what I need 😂
Elixir ftw, never used anything else in 10 yrs.
Right from the get go I really liked the sound of the YELLOW ROTO strings. It has a rich mellow heavy sound. Not thin and tinny, which may be good for some music, but the sound that came from those strings said "I'm sexy, I'm here, listen to me, I have something important to say." I chose the same strings and it was from the very beginning.
That's so funny, Ernie Ball slinky 10 was the first set I would use. Elixir nanoweb 10 are the only strings I use now. I have oily hands and the strings would tarnish after a day and rust after a week, so I love the rust resistance of Elixir strings. But my favorite sounding strings of all time were GHS Boomers. Super bright sounding strings, but they'd only last me a couple weeks.
I quit using Ernie Balls 20 years ago because my sweaty hands made them rust so darn fast. Give DR strings a try and see what you think.
I find the Ernie Ball Titaniums are a good solution for this too - well, they work for me.
I like Nanowebs too, but after this test I think I'm going to have to try Optiwebs.
I am not sweating too much but years ago I had issues with D'Addarios, I loved the sound but yes, they will die for me in a few days. So I switched to elixirs. I think it is combination of me and string materials.
Listen to the album The Who Sell Out, from 1967. They play a bunch of radio and commercial jingles they wrote, and one of them says, "Hold your group together with RotoSound Strings." John Entwhistle used them exclusively. They have been around a long time (made in England), and I have enjoyed using them on both electric and acoustic for quite a few years. Indeed, they are pleasant as you say!
Very interesting. From the first round I thought the Rotos sounded the best. My own choice is Ernie Ball Slinky strings. Interested to see how well the Harley Bentons did for the price too. Fascinating to hear them all like this.
That's what I'm using on my Tele right now. But these Rotos just blew me away. Gotta check 'em out.
Always loved Rotosound. They last for ages, sound great and they're British
I also use Ernie Ball slinkies or heave bottoms, but I only compared them to D'adarios, and Slinkies seemed to stay bright longer. I never had the chance to try out so many strings. The two two finalists were a pleasant revelation. I might change things up...
I prefer both the Elixir strings you tested. They last much longer and the sound degradation isn't as fast as for uncoated strings. But I have also to admit that lazyness is a problem if you own more than one guitar. So its much appreciated if the change intervals can expand ;)
Yep. I own 20 guitars and have been using Elixir Nanowebs for many years. I wouldn't consider an un-coated string set for the inconvenience and ...THE COST.
Absolutely second this. Don't know what's with the Elixier strings, but they endure my hand sweat and humidity better than some others, which for me is a good point to leaves them on longer when others have already stsrted to feel rusty and unresponsive