Detail 01
Medium top, extra-heavy bottom
Thin high strings, thick low strings. Bends stay easy while the low end holds pitch when you tune down.
Product detailSKU #1274034478034
D'AddarioEXL117 Medium Top/Extra-Heavy Bottom, Nickel-Wound Electric Guitar Strings
1/9
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Nickel-wound electric guitar set with light treble strings and heavy bass strings. For drop tunings that still need easy bending on top.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Drop D and lower tunings that go floppy with a standard set
- Riff players who want tight low strings but bendable high strings
- Heavier styles where the low E has to stay defined
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Standard E tuning — the bottom strings will feel stiff and overtight
- Players wanting even tension and feel across all six strings
- Anyone new to setup work; the tension change needs adjustment
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Nickel wound
Nickel-plated wrap. Warmer and less abrasive on frets than stainless, and it drives magnetic pickups well.
Detail 03
Round wound
Textured surface gives the bright attack and harmonic content most electric styles rely on, plus audible finger noise.
Detail 04
Unbalanced gauge spread
Neck relief and intonation will shift when you switch from a matched set. Plan on a truss rod and saddle check.
Detail 05
Six-string electric set
For magnetic pickups. Not intended for acoustic guitar, where bronze windings do the work.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01The heavy low strings may not fit existing nut slots — filing is sometimes needed
- 02Setup will need adjusting: truss rod, intonation, and possibly spring tension on a tremolo
- 03Sold as strings only; no winder, cutter, or tools included
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What tuning are these meant for?
Drop tunings. The extra-heavy bottom strings keep tension and pitch stability when you drop the low string, while the medium top strings still bend normally.
02Can I use these in standard tuning?
You can, but the wound strings will feel noticeably stiff and pull the guitar sharper in tension. Most players buying this set are tuning down at least a step on the low string.
03Will these damage my guitar?
No, but the added tension changes neck relief. Check the truss rod and intonation after installing, and have the nut slots widened if the low strings bind.
04Nickel wound or stainless steel?
Nickel is warmer and gentler on frets. Stainless is brighter and lasts longer but wears frets faster. These are nickel.
