Why is it that out of all the string sets I have played in my lifetime (48+ playing years) the 'D' is always the best sounding string and the longest lived? I don't even like the key of D. I especially detest Db minor. I don't mind playing D as part of a happier key such as G or A, but D is just the Devil & damnation. Darkness. Whereas vitamin D is all sunlight & carrots.
That's why I don't use D'Addario any more. In contrast, a lot of the GHS factory sets are a lot better balanced overall.
Yeah, it may just be the tension thing. I've always preferred higher tension sets as they almost always sounded better to my ears and felt more comfortable... though I'm sure playing style and setup preferences factor into the equation there as well