D’Addario introduces XS Nickel Bronze, the latest addition to the XS Acoustic family. Featuring both the clear, transparent tone of Nickel Bronze and the exceptional lifespan, smooth but not slippery feel, and tuning stability of XS, XS Nickel Bronze strings give acoustic guitars players a fresh tonal option within the XS lineup.
The Nickel Bronze alloy creates a clear, harmonically rich sound with outstanding note definition, which allows the natural character of the instrument to shine through the way it was meant to be heard. Meanwhile, ultra-thin XS film coating protects the wound strings from contaminants, maximizing the lifespan of the string while preserving a smooth, natural feel that’s uncommon in traditional coated strings.
“Players have long loved Nickel Bronze for its clear, transparent tone and its ability to reveal the unique character of their instrument, while XS has earned a following for keeping strings sounding, feeling, and performing their best for longer,” said Founder Jim D’Addario. “With XS Nickel Bronze, we’ve brought those two innovations together, delivering the true Nickel Bronze voice players love with the extended life, tuning stability, and smooth feel that define XS.”
With the addition of Nickel Bronze, players can now choose from three distinct tonal options across the XS Acoustic lineup: Nickel Bronze, Phosphor Bronze, and 80/20 Bronze.
Key Features
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Maximum String Life: Ultra-thin XS film coating prevents contaminants from building up in the string windings, greatly lengthening the life of the string
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Clear Nickel Bronze Tone: XS Nickel Bronze strings have outstanding note definition and a transparent sound that highlights the natural character of the instrument
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Smooth Feel: XS coating is durable enough to protect the string, but thin enough to preserve the natural feel of the strings
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Enhanced Strength: NY Steel high-carbon wire produces enhanced break strength and better tuning stability
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Improved Tuning Stability: Fusion Twist technology helps keep plain steel strings securely in tune
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Made by D’Addario: Wire drawing, string winding, and coating are controlled in-house for consistent performance
Availability
D’Addario XS Nickel Bronze strings are available beginning October 1, 2026, in popular acoustic guitar gauges and a mandolin gauge at D’Addario and authorized retailers.