Cheaper to get Elixir XL strings? Any downside?

[Mike]

Hey all,

 

I noticed on Amazon that the same guage Elixir strings are a tenner cheaper if you get XL extra long scale. I don't need extra long scale but are there any disadvantages in me saving some money here?

 

45-105 Elixir long scale £48

 

45-105 Eiixir extra long scale £38

 

Thanks!

 

Mike

[Lozz196]

I can’t think of any problems, I use the regular long scale on my string-thru Mustang basses and they work fine. Ok the string-thru probably adds on an inch or so but that’s still 31” compared to 34”.

[ped]

9 minutes ago, Lozz196 said:

I can’t think of any problems, I use the regular long scale on my string-thru Mustang basses and they work fine. Ok the string-thru probably adds on an inch or so but that’s still 31” compared to 34”.

If they’re extra-long enough maybe you’ll get two lengths from each string 😂

 

Good tip though, I’m using them on my short scales so using XL won’t make any difference at the headstock. I like the new packaging, too!

[Inga]

strings taper off at the end after the nut, if you get super long scale the full size portion is gonna go into the tuning post and be weird

 

[Dood]

On 14/10/2025 at 20:24, Inga said:

strings taper off at the end after the nut, if you get super long scale the full size portion is gonna go into the tuning post and be weird

 

 

Came to say the same. On smaller tuners the full outer winding of the string is likely to break as it won't want to curl around such a small post - thats why strings have their inner windings exposed at the tuners. Rotosound used to (and I am suspect they still do) specify in their warranty that string breakages caused by fitting the wrong type of string are not covered.

[Mike]

Thanks for the input! Update: I did it and it all worked fine. Will update the thread if anything happens but all ok so far.

[ped]

On 16/10/2025 at 19:10, Dood said:

 

Came to say the same. On smaller tuners the full outer winding of the string is likely to break as it won't want to curl around such a small post - thats why strings have their inner windings exposed at the tuners. Rotosound used to (and I am suspect they still do) specify in their warranty that string breakages caused by fitting the wrong type of string are not covered.

I’ve got long scale Elixirs on my Mustang and Musicmaster and both cope fine with the full width string around the tuners, even the smaller diameter Musicmaster ones. Unfortunately Elixir don’t make short or medium scale sets so it’s the only option but works fine, as long as they are installed correctly. Flats might snap though.