by my calculation (1.4 US Dollar = 1 Euro) they would be about 10 or 11 euros. probably about 15 euros for the premuim elizers. I looked at that pic, and i can honestly say i've never seen a string unwind like that. i have used elixers for years, and even still have a set on a randy rhoades guitar that has been there for almost two years now, and they are still in great shape. you must be getting dirt or something in between the windings. i dunno. yes, in my opinion they are a bit bright at first, but that's because they take longer to break in. it just maintains that new string sound longer, once that goes away then they last for friggin ever!!!!!