Setup for Mono

[cadfael_tex]

An extension of the post I have about using the Prince Precision Mono. I got one from e b a y and I'll play with it instead. What I need now is guidance on setup for it - stings and tension etc.

[cadfael_tex]

Oh, and to let people know what my game is like. I'm coming back after basically a decade layoff. Back in the day I was a serve and volleyer with a big forehand (which ranged in grip from a flat continetal to a full western topspin). Backhand was one hander I worked hard on after being taught 2 hander - topspin being easier for me than slice on that side - though I'd like to get a slice. Anyway that's where I was and where I'd like to get back to. Level was 4.5 to 5 but I'm much less than that now.

[AndrewD]

You'll find slice with the Precision Mono almost effortless. It provides a wonderful instrument for generating low, biting slice approach shots that compliment a serve-volley, chip-charge or attacking all-courter.

As to string and tension, well that's such a personal preference its hard to recommend. I will say though, that I used mine strung between 45 and 50lbs with Gosen JC snyth gut and thought it was perfect. Now, you've got to have very good hands to control that kind of tension with a 97sq headsize and still keep a medium to long swing. However, if you are a former serve-volley player you should have the hands and might well have the shorter swing length.

I wouldn't necessarily recommend those types of tension but thought Id mention what I liked best. I found it gave me very good power but was still easy to control - for me (I did play for years with the original 200G so was used to low tensions).

If you like higher tensions then Id suggest starting with 55lbs (think Connors used 52lbs). The tighter you go the 'boardier' it feels and gets quite harsh outside of centre (Im used to a midsize frame but strung tightly the Mono felt like it had a very small sweetspot). A finer gauge string, I think, works best but nothing too stiff as you'll lose feel.

[RB]

I know its hard to believe --but Connors had his Mono strung at anywhere from 38 to 43 lbs--depending on the surface and altitude ect.--learned this at a Senior event in the late 90's--from his stringer----I asked after I noticed how the ball was coming off his racquet on volleys---so of course I had to try it also-(*LOL*)--it really is a good combination for hitting the ball flat from the baseline---
BTW--I also verified that tension info with an email from Bob At RacquetMaxx

[AndrewD]

I know its hard to believe --but Connors had his Mono strung at anywhere from 38 to 43 lbs--depending on the surface and altitude ect.--learned this at a Senior event in the late 90's--from his stringer----I asked after I noticed how the ball was coming off his racquet on volleys---so of course I had to try it also-(*LOL*)--it really is a good combination for hitting the ball flat from the baseline---
BTW--I also verified that tension info with an email from Bob At RacquetMaxx

RB,

I had no idea he strung that low. Always been told he was around 50-52lbs but happy to concede to some good insider info. Not really surprised he went that low as the Mono does really excel at lower tensions. Although, I have to say, I don't think I could handle it, on the volley, strung at 38lbs. Of course, I might have excellent control but Im no Jimmy Connors LOL.

Any idea what string he was using? I never tried gut but thought it might have been a good choice -bit more pop and a bit more spin.

[RB]

Hey Andrew--nice to talk to you---Im another Mono fan---still using mine----the Email I got back from Bob Patterson At RacquetMaxx Stated that when they strung for Jimmy he used Babolat VS Gut 17 gauge (1.25mm) @ 18 and 19 kilos (39-42 lbs)--

At the tournament I saw him at the stringer said around 17 kilos--it was on a composition court---slower-- so strung a little lower I guess-----

[cadfael_tex]

The one that's in the mail is strung at 62 lbs. Should I even try it at that or should I get it strung lower first.

[cadfael_tex]

Also, Andrew mentioned a softer string, which is what I like anyway - I think. I haven't really done a lot of play since the choices were nylon and gut so I'm a little overwhelmed. Any recommendations on a soft string that is fairly durable. I've looked into the Babolat Fibretour and it looks good but I'm open to suggestions - very open!

Oh, and cheers all for the help you've given so far.

[AndrewD]

I dont really know what type of tensions or feel you like but I do know that when I had the Mono strung at 55lbs I really didn't like it.

The original demo I used (prior to buying) was probably strung at mid range but by the time I got to it the tension had dropped considerably to somewhere below 55lbs and it was fantastic (standard Prince synth gut I think). I didn't know what it was so had my first re-string at 55lbs and hated it. Just didnt feel like I was getting the same kind of sting on my backhand slice and it felt 'boardy' at net. Next one I dropped to 50lbs and it was lovely. Dropped one to 45lbs for play on dirt courts and it was equally nice.

Something I felt - but RB might have a different idea- is that the Mono had no 'hotspots'. So, if you string it low you only have to take the standard degree of care when it comes to overhitting but you wont have to deal with an area of the sweetspot that is incredibly lively.

RB,

Yep, I love the Mono and have since the first time I used it. The slice backhand is my most damaging groundstroke (in the angle I get on returns or the bite on approach shots) and I found the Mono let me skim shot after shot just over the top of the tape. The Mono shaft allows you to be very quick at net and it makes half-volleys effortless.

If I could find more of them then it's all I'd use as it perfectly suits my style of play. Connors was the only pro who used it wasnt he? Can't recall ever seeing anyone else with it (the extender Ripstick yes, but not the Mono).

[RB]

Andrew---I never saw anyone use it besides Connors either---when I saw him at the pre mentioned tournament in the late 90's--I didnt even know what that funny shaped racquet was that he was using---did a search later and found out-*LOL*--Ive got two that I use that I keep strung-and one other I keep in the closet for "safe keeping"---

[cadfael_tex]

Somewhere on here I read that Michael Chang may have used one for a short while in the twilight of his career.

[cadfael_tex]

Well, I got the Mono today. I won't be able to hit with it until Sunday or Monday. As I mentioned earlier I think, it's got PSG strung at 62 Lbs. It sure feels like 62 lbs but I'm going to try it out that way.

Here's the plan. Both this and my current racquet of choice (PS 6.0 95) need new string jobs. I eventually want to put Klip Legend 16 in the racquet I'm going to play with the most. I may try restring both with some Syn Gut (maybe PSG unless I find a better one) to get them set up to the right tension.

The Experiment continues...

[big ted]

Somewhere on here I read that Michael Chang may have used one for a short while in the twilight of his career.

i also read in a tennis newspaper that the racquet was developed for and with michael chang and i think he tried it once or twice in tournaments but ditched it. then connors got his hands on it. i think the racquet came out in '94.

[cadfael_tex]

Yeah, it did come out in '94. Hadn't heard that about Chang though.

[AndrewD]

cadfael_tex,

If you're going to compare the Mono to the PS95, Id suggest you make sure any extra weight (assuming there is any) is removed from the Wilson so you can get a fair idea of the difference between the two.

Also, as I might have mentioned before, the Mono has a consistant flex from top to bottom while, going on all reports, the Wilson has variable flex with the head being a bit flexier. The Mono wont give you that feel at all. Personally, I think that provides more reassurance when you hit the ball as you know exactly what feel you're going to get on all shots.

I also feel that the Mono isn't a racquet that desperately requires additional weight. It provides a very solid response on all shots, more than sufficient spin (the open string pattern helps) and greater maneouverability than other racquets. Doesn't really favour a single-handed or a double-handed backhand and operates very comfortably for both. Might take you a little while to feel comfortable on serve but that's mainly due to all of us being used to a split throat arrangement. Touch, I didnt find to be its strong suit but there's enough there and a softer string helps. At net, I've never used anything that comes remotely close to it. It will encourage you to attack (works best when you've got your weight moving forward) and give you the confidence to think you can handle any volley.

If you do get to play a match with it, try a few block shots on the return of serve. The mono shaft makes them absolutely lethal.

[cadfael_tex]

Thanks AndrewD. I'm looking forward to playing with it to see how it goes. As far a being used to the open-throat, I'm not sure I ever really got used to it. That's why I liked my Kneissl Pro Masters so much.

[AndrewD]

cadfael_tex,

Just curious to see how you went with the Mono.

I had a good hit with mine today while a club-mate was trying my POG mid. Gave me a chance to compare the two and see what I might have lost or gained in the switch (although, as Ive said, the switch was necessary with the Mono being unavailable).

All up, if I was awarding points, it would have been very close.

I served far, far better with the POG mid than the Mono. Not surprising as I always found it took time to adjust to the mono throat after using a split one (different position for the tossing arm throws me out of synch). Also, a bit more power with the Mono so easier to overhit on serve, especially now that the tension has dropped. Regardless, I was able to generate equal power with the POG mid, better placement and more control of spin.

Slice backhands have a different feel with both frames but were equally penetrating. Surprising, as I never thought Id find something to rival the Mono but the POG mid comes damn close. Slightly smaller headsize gives you less grunt but a touch more precision. Basically, each do the same thing slightly differently but very, very well.

Groundstrokes, the Mono wins. More power but, more importantly, greater stability due to the larger headsize. Hit some good forehands with both but the Mono was better on the return of serve. The forehand is usually my weakest shot but I really found the groove today, with the Mono. It's a very, very good blend of larger (97sq) headsize with low innate power so balls dont fly as easily and you don't need quite as long a swing as with the POG mid. That allows you to have a slower swing-speed (which helps maintain good form) than with the POG mid but still get good depth on shots.

At the net, the Mono is in a class of its own. However, I was very, very surprised at how well the POG mid performed. Seemed far more stable on volleys than groundstrokes (not that it was bad on groundstrokes) and offers an excellent blend of power and control. Moves very easily through the air so very good for doubles and half-volleys were a breeze. Definately rates as one of the best volleying racquets Ive used (strangely, all of the best -bar the Head Prestige Pro- have come from Prince).

Comfort-wise, both rate highly. No arm or shoulder troubles at all.

All up, Id give the nod to the Mono, but only just.

Now, I want to grab a TT Warrior mp (which I did use previously) and see how it compares to the Mono. Never bothered to match them, one against the other, when I was using the Warrior but think it might be quite interesting.

[Jerry Seinfeld]

I love the Mono. Still playing with mine and agreeing with most all of AndrewD's observations. It's a great stick. Must be played with for multiple sessions to appreciate. Plays differently from open throat racquets and the user must get used to the new feel before the strengths of the racquets can really manifest and be appreciated. Once you hit with the Mono it's hard to move on to other racquets. Sure wish they were more readily available, but it was a technology probably too far ahead of its time. Most weren't ready to accept the different, though stylish look.

Like Andrew, I find my Mono hits best with softer strings. The racquet is not the most comfortable racquet I have ever hit, and I'm not convinced that it is a wise choice for those who suffer from arm or elbow pain. The specs are fine, but the shaft does transmit a lot of feel. I like feel, but it actually borders on too much. In fact it is the only racquet I have ever used a dampener with...ever. That said, with the dampener and softer strings it is an acceptable level of comfort. It doesn't cause me any arm pain so I am good to go.

I have played a boatload of multis and guts in my Mono. The best gut, IMO, was BDE Performance. That said, gut generally provides me a little more pop than I like in this stick, although I love the touch around the net. Currently my string of choice is the Signum Pro Fibre High Tec EXP. It's a rather obscure multi, but the Mono is a rather obscure racquet. In my opinion they were made for each other. This is the string I keep in my "match" sticks. I am always testing strings and have practice sticks strung with a wide variety of samples for playtesting purposes. When match day comes I always reach for the EXP sticks. The string compliments the racquets nicely. I also usually have at least one with gut in the bag. If I find myself a little tired or needing some extra firepower I will sometimes pull the gut out, but that is a rare situation. Bottom line is IMO quality multis and guts work best in this racquet. I have found my optimal tension at 55.5lbs with a prestretch.

cadfael...Welcome to "Club Mono" friend!!!

[AndrewD]

Once you hit with the Mono it's hard to move on to other racquets.


Couldn't agree more with that sentiment.

The reason I put the Mono aside is simply because the feel is so unique the longer you hit with it the harder it is to adjust to a standard frame. Twice before, with the original Dunlop 200G and the Snauwert Hi-Ten 50, I got caught using racquets that -due to their unique characteristics-were impossible to replace. Didn't want to go through that a third time as it can take quite some time to wean yourself off the unusual 'feel'.

[cadfael_tex]

First results. I really liked playing with it. Didn't have much trouble adjusting to not having an open throat. Like the power level and control. Had to wind down the experiment after about 30-45 minutes though because my wrist and elbow began to hurt. Will try it again later and will keep y'all posted.

[cadfael_tex]

Second time shut it down after about 10 minutes. The thing just really hurts my elbow. Maybe it's the high tension on the strings (62lbs) so I guess I'll have to try it with another string setup - when I can afford it.