Official TW String Playtest: 2012 Wilson String A
- Thread starter TW Staff
- Start date
retlod
Professional
Final update from me as well. I hit with the strings again last night and found the same poor spin production as before. I was really struck by how little snapback these strings had even though they have not died on me yet. I was constantly having to straighten them. Even the crosses were out of alignment from time to time. This really makes me think that the strings resist movement because of their twisted, triangular profile, which may be responsible for the poor spin I'm getting with them. Alas, when I need a frame with new stirngs, these are going to be the first to go.
headigseeker
New User
Tension= 55 Full
Regular Set up: Tecnifibre Black Code 16
Racquet: Head Youtek Prestige Pro
Feel= 4/10
Nothing compared to the black codes. The strings kind of feel like a board even after freshly strung.
Tension= 8/10
Tension was pretty good. It didn't feel like it was dropping significantly when I played for 2 hours; similar to the black codes.
Power= 6/10
Compared to my black codes, this string did not give as much power when strung on my prestige.
Spin= 7/10
Spin was pretty good and helped on serve; almost as good as my black codes. Perhaps the shapes between the two strings are similar.
Regular Set up: Tecnifibre Black Code 16
Racquet: Head Youtek Prestige Pro
Feel= 4/10
Nothing compared to the black codes. The strings kind of feel like a board even after freshly strung.
Tension= 8/10
Tension was pretty good. It didn't feel like it was dropping significantly when I played for 2 hours; similar to the black codes.
Power= 6/10
Compared to my black codes, this string did not give as much power when strung on my prestige.
Spin= 7/10
Spin was pretty good and helped on serve; almost as good as my black codes. Perhaps the shapes between the two strings are similar.
Tried out the new strings:
Tension: 58
Regular String Set Up: Poly synth Hybrid
Regular Racket: Head Youtek Speed MP
Power: 7/10
Feel: 4/10
I really liked these strings. Although I would still prefer a hybrid as it gives me more feel, this string added more power to a relatively weak frame that I currently use. It was a nice feeling to be able to swing through my groundstrokes at high paces. The volleys on the other hand felt very stiff. Although I'm used to this stiff feeling, I was a little bit more uncomfortable up at net. Overall, i wouldn;t pay too much for these strings. It doesn't have any more considerable spin than what I'm used to so I would probably rate this a 6-7/10.
Tension: 58
Regular String Set Up: Poly synth Hybrid
Regular Racket: Head Youtek Speed MP
Power: 7/10
Feel: 4/10
I really liked these strings. Although I would still prefer a hybrid as it gives me more feel, this string added more power to a relatively weak frame that I currently use. It was a nice feeling to be able to swing through my groundstrokes at high paces. The volleys on the other hand felt very stiff. Although I'm used to this stiff feeling, I was a little bit more uncomfortable up at net. Overall, i wouldn;t pay too much for these strings. It doesn't have any more considerable spin than what I'm used to so I would probably rate this a 6-7/10.
Seth
Legend
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
- Hybrid with Gosen. 55/57
Your regular string set up
- Tourna BHSR mains at 55, Gosen OG crosses at 57
Racquet brand and model string is installed in:
- Slazenger Pro Braided
Power (or lack there of)
- Great pop. Not too far off from my normal set-up.
Feel
- Volleys felt lovely. My serve was pin-point as well.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
- Has held well for 5 hours so far.
Overall comments and feedback
- Really enjoyed this playtest. I'm tempted to, once it's made available, purchase some more and may even switch from BHSR. Great color.
- Hybrid with Gosen. 55/57
Your regular string set up
- Tourna BHSR mains at 55, Gosen OG crosses at 57
Racquet brand and model string is installed in:
- Slazenger Pro Braided
Power (or lack there of)
- Great pop. Not too far off from my normal set-up.
Feel
- Volleys felt lovely. My serve was pin-point as well.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
- Has held well for 5 hours so far.
Overall comments and feedback
- Really enjoyed this playtest. I'm tempted to, once it's made available, purchase some more and may even switch from BHSR. Great color.
Tension: Wilson sting A 46 M, PSGD 54lb X
Regular Set up: BHBR 48lb M, PSGD 55lb X
Racquet: Prince EXO3 Rebel 95
Power: 7.5/10 A little bit under power comparing to BHBR, once the string break-in, it plays fine.
Feel: 6.5/10 “Plasticy” and “boardy”, but not out of the ordinary compare to other co-poly. Totally lacking feels and response on volleys.
Tension maintenance: 7/10 Minor sting displacement at the 2nd hour of hitting. Eventually string does not snap back properly after about 7 hrs of playtime and starting to dramatically lose tension at around the 6th hour.
Spin: 8/10 Optimal spin production on groundstroke and serves, although slightly inferior to the type of spins that BHBR gives, but comparable to other.
Overall Comments and Feedback:
It looked pretty cool, but the color is dull. The string performed so-so. It didn't have more spin, or more feel, nothing out of the ordinary. Power level is on par with the average co-poly. Everything about it was a bit above average, but not by much. I haven't popped the string and I've played approximately 11 hours with it on my 18x20 set-up. I still like the string overall, but not enough as a primary, go to string.
Regular Set up: BHBR 48lb M, PSGD 55lb X
Racquet: Prince EXO3 Rebel 95
Power: 7.5/10 A little bit under power comparing to BHBR, once the string break-in, it plays fine.
Feel: 6.5/10 “Plasticy” and “boardy”, but not out of the ordinary compare to other co-poly. Totally lacking feels and response on volleys.
Tension maintenance: 7/10 Minor sting displacement at the 2nd hour of hitting. Eventually string does not snap back properly after about 7 hrs of playtime and starting to dramatically lose tension at around the 6th hour.
Spin: 8/10 Optimal spin production on groundstroke and serves, although slightly inferior to the type of spins that BHBR gives, but comparable to other.
Overall Comments and Feedback:
It looked pretty cool, but the color is dull. The string performed so-so. It didn't have more spin, or more feel, nothing out of the ordinary. Power level is on par with the average co-poly. Everything about it was a bit above average, but not by much. I haven't popped the string and I've played approximately 11 hours with it on my 18x20 set-up. I still like the string overall, but not enough as a primary, go to string.
Ratings are on a comparative scale based on other poly strings.
Racquet: Pure Drive Roddick GT
Tension: 57/57
Power 8/10
Response was lively and predictable.
Feel 7/10
A firm almost springy feel to it. However, low marks for "plasticy feel." Not nearly as bad as with Solinco Revolution or Signum Pro Poly Plasma. About on par with that of Big Hitter Blue.
Spin 7/10
Spin was good but only a bit above average for a poly.
Tension 8/10
I would say the tension matenince is generally above average. Which would only give it a 7/10. However, I rate it with a higher score based on how it plays once the tension drops. Instead of becoming an uncontrollable trampoline like some poly strings this one firms up and loses it's elasticity. I prefer this as it allows for more longer playabilty time even once the string is effectively "dead ." The down side is that polys like this can become bad for the arm.
General Comments:
This is a good long term use poly. But it lacks what I call the "X Facter." Which is that almost magical combination of power and spin that makes you feel like you can hit amazing shots with lots of power without the fear of hitting long. It just doesn't have that.
Racquet: Pure Drive Roddick GT
Tension: 57/57
Power 8/10
Response was lively and predictable.
Feel 7/10
A firm almost springy feel to it. However, low marks for "plasticy feel." Not nearly as bad as with Solinco Revolution or Signum Pro Poly Plasma. About on par with that of Big Hitter Blue.
Spin 7/10
Spin was good but only a bit above average for a poly.
Tension 8/10
I would say the tension matenince is generally above average. Which would only give it a 7/10. However, I rate it with a higher score based on how it plays once the tension drops. Instead of becoming an uncontrollable trampoline like some poly strings this one firms up and loses it's elasticity. I prefer this as it allows for more longer playabilty time even once the string is effectively "dead ." The down side is that polys like this can become bad for the arm.
General Comments:
This is a good long term use poly. But it lacks what I call the "X Facter." Which is that almost magical combination of power and spin that makes you feel like you can hit amazing shots with lots of power without the fear of hitting long. It just doesn't have that.
Wilson string A
Racquet/ Wilson K-six one tour Tension/ 57lb full set
Serves 8/10
I was very surprised with the spin i´ve got on my serves. I was expecting some spin but it gave me more than i expected on my slice serves
Forehand/Backhand 8/10: At first i felt very hard to hit with this string. But staying more time on court gave me control and medium power and after 45 mintutes i felt very comfortable with this string.
Volley 8/10: my favorite part of my game. I was expecting power and not much feel. But it has a nice feel with medium power. i was able to make some nice drop volleys.
Power 7/10: I felt this one to be a medium power string.
Spin: really nice on serves and backhand slice.
Dislikes: My first impression when i opened the package was " This looks like a cheap poly". I probably buy it but in a diferent color like white or perhaps black. But not that cream color.
Overall 8/10: It is a good string. It feel quite comfortable when i started to hit over the 20 first minutes. I would probably buy it but in a diferent color.
Racquet/ Wilson K-six one tour Tension/ 57lb full set
Serves 8/10
I was very surprised with the spin i´ve got on my serves. I was expecting some spin but it gave me more than i expected on my slice serves
Forehand/Backhand 8/10: At first i felt very hard to hit with this string. But staying more time on court gave me control and medium power and after 45 mintutes i felt very comfortable with this string.
Volley 8/10: my favorite part of my game. I was expecting power and not much feel. But it has a nice feel with medium power. i was able to make some nice drop volleys.
Power 7/10: I felt this one to be a medium power string.
Spin: really nice on serves and backhand slice.
Dislikes: My first impression when i opened the package was " This looks like a cheap poly". I probably buy it but in a diferent color like white or perhaps black. But not that cream color.
Overall 8/10: It is a good string. It feel quite comfortable when i started to hit over the 20 first minutes. I would probably buy it but in a diferent color.
I agree with this sentiment entirely. It's just a good string. Doesn't lack anything, but doesn't have anything special. It's just good poly.
Tension it is strung: 55lbs
Your regular string set up: Prince Synthetic Gut
Racquet brand and model string is installed in: Wilson K90
Power (or lack there of): Good amount of power 8/10
Feel: 8.5/10
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): Seemed to hold tension well, but maybe dependent on weather. Alot of rain and moisture in the air. 8/10
Overall comments and feedback: 8.5/10
Good string, got alot of spin feedback from the string. Compared to power, spin was greated though power was not lacking. Seems like a nice string overall, and spin potential seems great!
Your regular string set up: Prince Synthetic Gut
Racquet brand and model string is installed in: Wilson K90
Power (or lack there of): Good amount of power 8/10
Feel: 8.5/10
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): Seemed to hold tension well, but maybe dependent on weather. Alot of rain and moisture in the air. 8/10
Overall comments and feedback: 8.5/10
Good string, got alot of spin feedback from the string. Compared to power, spin was greated though power was not lacking. Seems like a nice string overall, and spin potential seems great!
samurai13
Semi-Pro
Racquet: Head Youtek Extreme mp
Tension: 56/56
Power 8/10
it was pretty powerful. Rather average in my opinion. Not particularly powerful but not particularly weak. It was consistent with its amount of power though so I enjoyed that predictability.
Feel 6/10
Maybe my least favorite quality about this string. I usually use rpm blast which has that amazing feel due to it's 8 sides, however even though I am used to great feel I did not like the somewhat trampoline-ish flimsy feeling feel of this string.
Spin 8/10
I like to slice a lot and this string gave me the ability to this with ease. Nothing phenomenal but it worked well.
Tension 7/10
It kept the same tention for a while until right before it broke obviously. I though that it was a pretty average amount of time compared to other strings I have used.
Overall Score 7/10
This string definitely worked for me. I did not find it to supress my game in any way however I did not think it enhanced or particularly helped me in any way. It did not suit my game I thought as well as an rpm blast or prince beast. I would not go out of my way to buy this string however I would use it if I had to without much discontent! thank you for giving me the opportunity to do this playtest!
-SAMurai
Tension: 56/56
Power 8/10
it was pretty powerful. Rather average in my opinion. Not particularly powerful but not particularly weak. It was consistent with its amount of power though so I enjoyed that predictability.
Feel 6/10
Maybe my least favorite quality about this string. I usually use rpm blast which has that amazing feel due to it's 8 sides, however even though I am used to great feel I did not like the somewhat trampoline-ish flimsy feeling feel of this string.
Spin 8/10
I like to slice a lot and this string gave me the ability to this with ease. Nothing phenomenal but it worked well.
Tension 7/10
It kept the same tention for a while until right before it broke obviously. I though that it was a pretty average amount of time compared to other strings I have used.
Overall Score 7/10
This string definitely worked for me. I did not find it to supress my game in any way however I did not think it enhanced or particularly helped me in any way. It did not suit my game I thought as well as an rpm blast or prince beast. I would not go out of my way to buy this string however I would use it if I had to without much discontent! thank you for giving me the opportunity to do this playtest!
-SAMurai
StanW
Rookie
Sorry this review took so long. It's hard finding a partner in New Jersey who wants to play in miserable weather! 
Racquet: ProKennex Odyssey
Tension: 60/60
Power: 7.5/10
The amount of power it gave when going for a winner was phenomenal. However, during most rallies it ended up short in no man's land.
Feel: 5/10
The low feel of the string was not expected. A frame here and there, led to a sore elbow later in the game. I expected a little more response from the string when volleying. It was as if I was hitting with a block of wood.
Spin: 8/10
The spin was great on top spin forehands; they were low and deep.
Tension: 8/10
In the first few hours of playing, playing with the Wilson test string was absolutely miserable. It finally had a nicer pop after rallying with heavy flat forehands.
Stringing
It was a pain to string the 3 sided twisted poly. It was like putting barb wire through the grommet holes. Q____Q Bloody nightmare.
General Comments:
I felt that it didn't have any special qualities that made it any different from any other economical string besides it being shaped. Nothing too different from the original prestrung synthetic gut that comes with a racquet.
Racquet: ProKennex Odyssey
Tension: 60/60
Power: 7.5/10
The amount of power it gave when going for a winner was phenomenal. However, during most rallies it ended up short in no man's land.
Feel: 5/10
The low feel of the string was not expected. A frame here and there, led to a sore elbow later in the game. I expected a little more response from the string when volleying. It was as if I was hitting with a block of wood.
Spin: 8/10
The spin was great on top spin forehands; they were low and deep.
Tension: 8/10
In the first few hours of playing, playing with the Wilson test string was absolutely miserable. It finally had a nicer pop after rallying with heavy flat forehands.
Stringing
It was a pain to string the 3 sided twisted poly. It was like putting barb wire through the grommet holes. Q____Q Bloody nightmare.
General Comments:
I felt that it didn't have any special qualities that made it any different from any other economical string besides it being shaped. Nothing too different from the original prestrung synthetic gut that comes with a racquet.
My Review
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
Strung as a full bed at 55 lbs on AERO PRO GT
Your regular string set up
Luxilon Big Banger 60 lbs
String pattern of your racquet
16x19
Power (or lack there of)
Medium powered. Doesn't take much to power through.
Feel
Lack of feel for me compared to the Luxilon. Played with dampener (Gamma II)
Control
Lack of control at the tension strung.
Spin
Luxilon strings is more spin friendly compared to this string.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Tension holds for about 3 hours.
Overall comments and feedback
Still prefer the Luxilon compared to this set of strings. The lack of control plus spins (i'm more of a top-spinner), compared to the big banger, doesn't entice me to switch to this new string. The color of the string looks OK. Thanks for the chance for playtest. Until next time!
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
Strung as a full bed at 55 lbs on AERO PRO GT
Your regular string set up
Luxilon Big Banger 60 lbs
String pattern of your racquet
16x19
Power (or lack there of)
Medium powered. Doesn't take much to power through.
Feel
Lack of feel for me compared to the Luxilon. Played with dampener (Gamma II)
Control
Lack of control at the tension strung.
Spin
Luxilon strings is more spin friendly compared to this string.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Tension holds for about 3 hours.
Overall comments and feedback
Still prefer the Luxilon compared to this set of strings. The lack of control plus spins (i'm more of a top-spinner), compared to the big banger, doesn't entice me to switch to this new string. The color of the string looks OK. Thanks for the chance for playtest. Until next time!
xtennisloverx
Rookie
Tension it is strung: (hybrid) mains- Wilson String A at 54#; crosses- Wilson NXT 17 at 55#
Your regular string set up: (hybrid) mains- Solinco Tour Bite 16 at 54#; crosses- Solinco Vanquish 16 at 56#
Racquet brand and model string is installed in: Head MicroGel Prestige Midplus
Power (or lack there of): a good amount of power. was not able to hit through the ball as much as I am used to with my usual string setup, but still pretty good.
Feel: i was able to feel the ball well in my shots. i felt comfortable with every shot I hit. this would be a good string for players who dont play well with luxilon.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): maintains tension rather well. especially hybrided with a multifilament, should last before the multi breaks (for me)
Overall comments and feedback: a solid polyester string. seems like it would be better as a full stringbed rather than a hybrid with any other string.
Your regular string set up: (hybrid) mains- Solinco Tour Bite 16 at 54#; crosses- Solinco Vanquish 16 at 56#
Racquet brand and model string is installed in: Head MicroGel Prestige Midplus
Power (or lack there of): a good amount of power. was not able to hit through the ball as much as I am used to with my usual string setup, but still pretty good.
Feel: i was able to feel the ball well in my shots. i felt comfortable with every shot I hit. this would be a good string for players who dont play well with luxilon.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): maintains tension rather well. especially hybrided with a multifilament, should last before the multi breaks (for me)
Overall comments and feedback: a solid polyester string. seems like it would be better as a full stringbed rather than a hybrid with any other string.
Last edited:
Update on mine after some more hitting time, when i'd gotten used to the strings i really felt comfortable with them after a couple of hours practice.I put about another 5 hrs on them of match play (county league matches we won them) and i think in a full bed at what was 55lbs (mid tension) the performance has fallen off a bit now.
I was able to swing fairly freely so in my opinion quite low powered obviously the shape lends its self to adding spin, which with my "all court" fairly traditionsal style of game means it's not hard to keep the ball under control though sometimes groundies were comming up a bit shorter than i'd like. Final thought is that if they do release this as it is or in a similar guise i'd take a look but defo as a hybrid rather than a full bed just to make it a bit more lively from the start. Quite enjoyed the testing it was kinda fun, sadly for me as i think i'm now keeping this racquet this could lead to many string tests!!
I was able to swing fairly freely so in my opinion quite low powered obviously the shape lends its self to adding spin, which with my "all court" fairly traditionsal style of game means it's not hard to keep the ball under control though sometimes groundies were comming up a bit shorter than i'd like. Final thought is that if they do release this as it is or in a similar guise i'd take a look but defo as a hybrid rather than a full bed just to make it a bit more lively from the start. Quite enjoyed the testing it was kinda fun, sadly for me as i think i'm now keeping this racquet this could lead to many string tests!!
Finally got to test the string a couple of days ago. Hit with it 2 straight days (approx. 8 hours of court play)
Racket: Wilson BLX Surge strung at 59lbs. My string of choice is the Luxilon Savage.
Serve: I didn't not get the pop and kick I usually get, felt a lack of power on this part of my game using this string.
Volleys: Felt a bit better control and placement but I just feel this string lacks exactly that, FEEL, it's dull, lifeless.
Groundstrokes (Forehand, Backhand and Slice): I kinda liked it since I felt a bit of more control, but lacked power. Ball always ended up shorter than what I expected. Generated a nice amount of spin but not what I usually generate with my String of choice.
Power: 6/10
Feel: 6.5/10
Control: 7
Spin: 7
Final comment:
I think this string would be good for a hybrid string bed since I would mix it up with a more power oriented string to balance it out.
If this string comes out I might look into it as a hybrid, but I still think I would just keep using my current string.
Lack of feel and feedback on this string is what I just couldn't stand. It feels dull and lifeless.
Racket: Wilson BLX Surge strung at 59lbs. My string of choice is the Luxilon Savage.
Serve: I didn't not get the pop and kick I usually get, felt a lack of power on this part of my game using this string.
Volleys: Felt a bit better control and placement but I just feel this string lacks exactly that, FEEL, it's dull, lifeless.
Groundstrokes (Forehand, Backhand and Slice): I kinda liked it since I felt a bit of more control, but lacked power. Ball always ended up shorter than what I expected. Generated a nice amount of spin but not what I usually generate with my String of choice.
Power: 6/10
Feel: 6.5/10
Control: 7
Spin: 7
Final comment:
I think this string would be good for a hybrid string bed since I would mix it up with a more power oriented string to balance it out.
If this string comes out I might look into it as a hybrid, but I still think I would just keep using my current string.
Lack of feel and feedback on this string is what I just couldn't stand. It feels dull and lifeless.
AC Tennis
Rookie
OK, here's my review:
Me:
46 year old, 4.5 all court player. Hit moderatly flat, one handed backhand and volley quite a bit.
Set up:
Yonex VCore 98D
Prince Beast XP (16 or 17g) mains at 48lbs
Soft Multi crosses (currently Mantis Power syn) at 55lbs
Strung Wilson String A at 50lbs on mains and gutex (anyone remember this string?) at 55lbs on crosses
I'll start by saying, it was not as bad as I expected, having read the review posted here before stringing.
The Power was OK. Not as powerful as the Beast XP, but not as dead as I expected, again from reading the reviews. I'd give it a 7/10 for power.
Feel, again, OK. I expected it to have NO feel and a very plasticy feeling. But I was able to feel the ball and hit pretty good drop shots and angle volleys. Again, not as good as the Beast, but I'd give it a 6/10 for feel.
Spin was not very good for a textured poly. I could generate some good kick serves, but didn't get a lot on my groundies. Not horrible, but not that good for a textured poly. I'd say 5/10.
Tension maintenance has been OK, but I've only had it on for about two weeks and only played 3 sets of singles and a couple sets of doubles.
Overall, I was not terribly impressed. I would pay about $5 as set, but for anything more, I'd probably go with some of the cheeper polys like Pro Supex or Mamba.
Thanks TW for the chance to try these out!
AC Tennis
Me:
46 year old, 4.5 all court player. Hit moderatly flat, one handed backhand and volley quite a bit.
Set up:
Yonex VCore 98D
Prince Beast XP (16 or 17g) mains at 48lbs
Soft Multi crosses (currently Mantis Power syn) at 55lbs
Strung Wilson String A at 50lbs on mains and gutex (anyone remember this string?) at 55lbs on crosses
I'll start by saying, it was not as bad as I expected, having read the review posted here before stringing.
The Power was OK. Not as powerful as the Beast XP, but not as dead as I expected, again from reading the reviews. I'd give it a 7/10 for power.
Feel, again, OK. I expected it to have NO feel and a very plasticy feeling. But I was able to feel the ball and hit pretty good drop shots and angle volleys. Again, not as good as the Beast, but I'd give it a 6/10 for feel.
Spin was not very good for a textured poly. I could generate some good kick serves, but didn't get a lot on my groundies. Not horrible, but not that good for a textured poly. I'd say 5/10.
Tension maintenance has been OK, but I've only had it on for about two weeks and only played 3 sets of singles and a couple sets of doubles.
Overall, I was not terribly impressed. I would pay about $5 as set, but for anything more, I'd probably go with some of the cheeper polys like Pro Supex or Mamba.
Thanks TW for the chance to try these out!
AC Tennis
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
-59lbs full set
Your regular string set up
-I haven't really standardized on a string yet. I have used mostly synthetic guts, both full sets and hybrids.
Racquet brand and model string is installed in
-Babolat AeroPro Drive
Power (or lack there of)
-I felt like I've lost some power, but am getting much more spin.
Feel
-I didn't notice a big difference in feel...but that could be more me than the strings.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
-I have played over 2 weeks 3 hours each week and haven't noticed tension loss, but will monitor.
Overall comments and feedback
-I definitely liked the strings...opponents were having a hard time returning serves because of the spin I was able to generate so it was probably worth the trade off in power.
I will keep looking at different strings, but will def. try out some more of these textured sets.
-59lbs full set
Your regular string set up
-I haven't really standardized on a string yet. I have used mostly synthetic guts, both full sets and hybrids.
Racquet brand and model string is installed in
-Babolat AeroPro Drive
Power (or lack there of)
-I felt like I've lost some power, but am getting much more spin.
Feel
-I didn't notice a big difference in feel...but that could be more me than the strings.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
-I have played over 2 weeks 3 hours each week and haven't noticed tension loss, but will monitor.
Overall comments and feedback
-I definitely liked the strings...opponents were having a hard time returning serves because of the spin I was able to generate so it was probably worth the trade off in power.
I will keep looking at different strings, but will def. try out some more of these textured sets.
Sorry for the late reply. I have not been playing as often these winter days.
Played 3 sessions with the string. First session was right after stringing and the other two a week later. Played 50/50 games and rallies.
I am a 3.5 baseliner with topspin forehand and flat DHBH.
Set-up: Head Flexpoint prestige MP 18*20 @54lbs full bed
Regular string is various poly under $10.
The string is not easy to string especially for the crosses. It might be a good idea to hybrid with syn gut.
Power: 8/10
The string is not super powerful but does not really lack of power at all. I am pretty happy about the depth of the shots with it.
Feel: 9/10
It has the lively feel when you hit hard on the sweetspot. Even with the rubber band dampener, I can clearly feel the pocketing of the ball. Very nice feel as long as you hit right on the spot.
Spin: 7/10
For the pain I suffered from stringing, the spin is not good enough. I would say it roughly generates the same spin as other non-textured poly.
Tension: 7/10
When I hit with it for the second time after a week, it did not feel as sweet as the first time. It is OK in tension maintenance.
Overall, I like the feel of the string, especially when it is fresh. Other than that, everything is just fine. It is just a solid poly and I would consider using it if it is not too pricy.
Played 3 sessions with the string. First session was right after stringing and the other two a week later. Played 50/50 games and rallies.
I am a 3.5 baseliner with topspin forehand and flat DHBH.
Set-up: Head Flexpoint prestige MP 18*20 @54lbs full bed
Regular string is various poly under $10.
The string is not easy to string especially for the crosses. It might be a good idea to hybrid with syn gut.
Power: 8/10
The string is not super powerful but does not really lack of power at all. I am pretty happy about the depth of the shots with it.
Feel: 9/10
It has the lively feel when you hit hard on the sweetspot. Even with the rubber band dampener, I can clearly feel the pocketing of the ball. Very nice feel as long as you hit right on the spot.
Spin: 7/10
For the pain I suffered from stringing, the spin is not good enough. I would say it roughly generates the same spin as other non-textured poly.
Tension: 7/10
When I hit with it for the second time after a week, it did not feel as sweet as the first time. It is OK in tension maintenance.
Overall, I like the feel of the string, especially when it is fresh. Other than that, everything is just fine. It is just a solid poly and I would consider using it if it is not too pricy.
teh_firestarter
New User
Hi guys! Sorry for the late review... I was trying out new sticks and forgot I got the string test to do! :shock:
Setups:
Racquet: Pure Storm Ltd
Mains: 52 lbs - Wilson String A
Crosses: 54 lbs - OG Sheep Micro 17
Regular set-up
Mains: 52 lbs - Big Hitter Silver Rough (BHSR)
Crosses: 54 lbs - OG Sheep Micro 17
Review:
Power: 7/10
Pretty sure this is a poly! At least it plays like one. There's a lot of control even strung at 52 lbs. I hit long a few times but it clearly wasn't my strings but my technique. I think this string is good for hard-hitters.
Feel: 6.5/10
I thought it was pretty average... for a poly. Felt a bit like a "board" even freshly strung compared to my usual BHSR. Not sure what gauge (16?) the string was but in my really dense PSL 18x20 pattern it felt a bit strange... as if there was no sweetspot. I liked the feel because I knew I couldn't over hit even when I gave my shots everything I had. Strange thoughts on feel for me.
Tension maintenance:
Can't really comment of this because I only have 2 hours of play. Will comment next week to see what changed.
Comments:
Not sure what you guys think about stringing this string but for me, it was kind of harsh. I'm used to string with reels so there's less tangle in the string... It took me a minute or two to untangle this twisted string but after that, stringing the mains was like any other poly I tried (BHSR, Cyber flash, Cyber blue, Cyclone). Can't comment on stringing the crosses though, I always play with hybrids.
Serves are great with these I thought. My slices and flat "bombs" were working great.
Volleys are okay for a poly. I thought it was comparable to my usual setup but a little less breathing? from the stringbed. I played in doubles and I could make good deep volleys and touch shots at the net. Felt solid.
Color is basic but... goes with about every racquet!
Conclusion:
I think this is a "classic" poly in the sense that it's good for hard hitters but is a bit stiff. I would probably buy it if came in reel (no way I would use individual packs, it's way too twisted) and is in the same price range as Tourna.
-firestarter :twisted:
Setups:
Racquet: Pure Storm Ltd
Mains: 52 lbs - Wilson String A
Crosses: 54 lbs - OG Sheep Micro 17
Regular set-up
Mains: 52 lbs - Big Hitter Silver Rough (BHSR)
Crosses: 54 lbs - OG Sheep Micro 17
Review:
Power: 7/10
Pretty sure this is a poly! At least it plays like one. There's a lot of control even strung at 52 lbs. I hit long a few times but it clearly wasn't my strings but my technique. I think this string is good for hard-hitters.
Feel: 6.5/10
I thought it was pretty average... for a poly. Felt a bit like a "board" even freshly strung compared to my usual BHSR. Not sure what gauge (16?) the string was but in my really dense PSL 18x20 pattern it felt a bit strange... as if there was no sweetspot. I liked the feel because I knew I couldn't over hit even when I gave my shots everything I had. Strange thoughts on feel for me.
Tension maintenance:
Can't really comment of this because I only have 2 hours of play. Will comment next week to see what changed.
Comments:
Not sure what you guys think about stringing this string but for me, it was kind of harsh. I'm used to string with reels so there's less tangle in the string... It took me a minute or two to untangle this twisted string but after that, stringing the mains was like any other poly I tried (BHSR, Cyber flash, Cyber blue, Cyclone). Can't comment on stringing the crosses though, I always play with hybrids.
Serves are great with these I thought. My slices and flat "bombs" were working great.
Volleys are okay for a poly. I thought it was comparable to my usual setup but a little less breathing? from the stringbed. I played in doubles and I could make good deep volleys and touch shots at the net. Felt solid.
Color is basic but... goes with about every racquet!
Conclusion:
I think this is a "classic" poly in the sense that it's good for hard hitters but is a bit stiff. I would probably buy it if came in reel (no way I would use individual packs, it's way too twisted) and is in the same price range as Tourna.
-firestarter :twisted:
Panibottle
New User
Hi! Sorry for the late review.
The string came in a clear plastic bag and looked like it had some faint ridges on the sides, almost striated. Very interesting. Unlike any other Wilson string I have seen before. At first glance it looked like a poly, but with this one I couldn't tell.
Anyway, I strung it at 57 lb like I do with all my strings. This way, I can compare it more accurately with my normal strings, which are usually Luxilon ALU Power Spin full set. I play on a stock Head Youtek Radical MP, with about 1 3/4 inches of lead tape at around 10 and 2 o clock. (gives me more plow through). The power was quite good, very similar to the set that I was playing with. One clear cut advantage over the Luxilon is that the feel and ball pocketing were AMAZING. On my backhands, I was able to run around my forehand and hit right in the very corner of the opponent's backhand side. This won me at least 10 or 15 points. The spin was quite good, especially for a Wilson string. I play a lot of people at around the 4.5-5 level, who hit with A LOT of topspin. Overall, I wasn't able to get as much spin as my normal setup, which is very important for me seeing as the Radical has a 98 in head size with 18 x 20 string pattern. Tension maintenance was again good, but not as good as the Luxilon which initially loses tension quite a bit but then hold for a good period of time.
Cheers!
The string came in a clear plastic bag and looked like it had some faint ridges on the sides, almost striated. Very interesting. Unlike any other Wilson string I have seen before. At first glance it looked like a poly, but with this one I couldn't tell.
Anyway, I strung it at 57 lb like I do with all my strings. This way, I can compare it more accurately with my normal strings, which are usually Luxilon ALU Power Spin full set. I play on a stock Head Youtek Radical MP, with about 1 3/4 inches of lead tape at around 10 and 2 o clock. (gives me more plow through). The power was quite good, very similar to the set that I was playing with. One clear cut advantage over the Luxilon is that the feel and ball pocketing were AMAZING. On my backhands, I was able to run around my forehand and hit right in the very corner of the opponent's backhand side. This won me at least 10 or 15 points. The spin was quite good, especially for a Wilson string. I play a lot of people at around the 4.5-5 level, who hit with A LOT of topspin. Overall, I wasn't able to get as much spin as my normal setup, which is very important for me seeing as the Radical has a 98 in head size with 18 x 20 string pattern. Tension maintenance was again good, but not as good as the Luxilon which initially loses tension quite a bit but then hold for a good period of time.
Cheers!
Sorry, finally got around to posting my review.
I am a 4.0/4.5 player.
Racket: Prince O3 Silver
Tension: 58 lbs
Power: 9/10. I really felt like I got good power out of this string. I hit mostly hard and flat, and I felt like this string added just a touch more topspin to my shots, which allowed me to hit harder and keep the ball in play.
Feel: 7/10. However, I felt like my mishits went a little more awry than usual, though that may have been my fault. My slice volleys seemed a little off with this string.
Tension maintenance: 9/10. Seems to hold tension well, I have played several times with this string and I haven't noticed any loss of tension.
Spin: 9/10. I liked the added topspin that this string added. Definitely added a new element to my groudstrokes.
Overall -
I really like this string, I would like to get more of it.
I am a 4.0/4.5 player.
Racket: Prince O3 Silver
Tension: 58 lbs
Power: 9/10. I really felt like I got good power out of this string. I hit mostly hard and flat, and I felt like this string added just a touch more topspin to my shots, which allowed me to hit harder and keep the ball in play.
Feel: 7/10. However, I felt like my mishits went a little more awry than usual, though that may have been my fault. My slice volleys seemed a little off with this string.
Tension maintenance: 9/10. Seems to hold tension well, I have played several times with this string and I haven't noticed any loss of tension.
Spin: 9/10. I liked the added topspin that this string added. Definitely added a new element to my groudstrokes.
Overall -
I really like this string, I would like to get more of it.
Davidwoo92
New User
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
55 lbs, full set.
Your regular string set up
BHBR 17 mains, Gosen Poly 17 Nat on cross, 55 lbs.
Racquet brand and model string is installed in
Babolat Aeropro Drive with Cortex
Power (or lack there of)
I felt there was too much power because of the lack of feel and softness. I could adjust to it, but felt placement was a bit off and I kept hitting a couple inches too deep. Couldn't slice the high balls, not enough give.
Feel
There was definitely not as much catch as my original set up. I couldn't put as much spin. Felt the strings had absolutely no give and all I could do was just punch the ball, without any placement.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
I have yet to hit enough times with this set up to notice any drop in tension. But I usually lose my tension in about a week of play, 5 to 6 days a week, 2 hours a day.
Overall comments and feedback.
Overall, these aren't the strings meant for heavy spinners. I'd say these strings are meant for power hitting baseline dominators, which isn't my game.
55 lbs, full set.
Your regular string set up
BHBR 17 mains, Gosen Poly 17 Nat on cross, 55 lbs.
Racquet brand and model string is installed in
Babolat Aeropro Drive with Cortex
Power (or lack there of)
I felt there was too much power because of the lack of feel and softness. I could adjust to it, but felt placement was a bit off and I kept hitting a couple inches too deep. Couldn't slice the high balls, not enough give.
Feel
There was definitely not as much catch as my original set up. I couldn't put as much spin. Felt the strings had absolutely no give and all I could do was just punch the ball, without any placement.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
I have yet to hit enough times with this set up to notice any drop in tension. But I usually lose my tension in about a week of play, 5 to 6 days a week, 2 hours a day.
Overall comments and feedback.
Overall, these aren't the strings meant for heavy spinners. I'd say these strings are meant for power hitting baseline dominators, which isn't my game.
I strung this myself on my drop weight. This wasn't the easiest to string. There was a lot of friction when pulling and weaving the crosses. It tended to kink up a lot, so it took a bit of extra attention. Other than that, it didn't take too long to string
Racket: Head FlexPoint Radical MP
Tension: 55lbs, two pieces.
I usually use a full set of BHBR at 57lbs or a ZoTour hybrid at 60lbs.
Groundies: My shots weren't anything spectacular with these strings. At the beginning, I was able to get much more consistent depth than when the tension started to go. I wasn't getting any extra spin from the twisted design.
Volleys: i felt that volley control of this string was great for being a poly. I had good control and depth on them as well as being able to hit some nice touch shots.
Serves: I played singles and doubles with this string. I was able to hit powerful serves, but I wasn't able to be as accurate as with my normal setups. For being a twisted co-poly, I don't think it produces as much spin as it should. I wasn't able to serve my sharp angles or get a lot of kick on my serves.
Softness: This polyester was very easy on the arm and comfortable to play with.
Durability: The string seems durable, it seems to be losing tension within 3 hours. I felt like I had less side-to-side control as time went on.
Final Conclusion: I think this is a softer poly that I would recommend for use in doubles where you would need more feel. I wouldn't use this regularly for singles.
Power: 8/10
Feel: 8/10
Spin: 6/10
Tension: 6/10
Racket: Head FlexPoint Radical MP
Tension: 55lbs, two pieces.
I usually use a full set of BHBR at 57lbs or a ZoTour hybrid at 60lbs.
Groundies: My shots weren't anything spectacular with these strings. At the beginning, I was able to get much more consistent depth than when the tension started to go. I wasn't getting any extra spin from the twisted design.
Volleys: i felt that volley control of this string was great for being a poly. I had good control and depth on them as well as being able to hit some nice touch shots.
Serves: I played singles and doubles with this string. I was able to hit powerful serves, but I wasn't able to be as accurate as with my normal setups. For being a twisted co-poly, I don't think it produces as much spin as it should. I wasn't able to serve my sharp angles or get a lot of kick on my serves.
Softness: This polyester was very easy on the arm and comfortable to play with.
Durability: The string seems durable, it seems to be losing tension within 3 hours. I felt like I had less side-to-side control as time went on.
Final Conclusion: I think this is a softer poly that I would recommend for use in doubles where you would need more feel. I wouldn't use this regularly for singles.
Power: 8/10
Feel: 8/10
Spin: 6/10
Tension: 6/10
sorry for the late review, but i was just able to get out there and hit after a short layoff.
39 year old 4.0 all court player currently using a Dunlop Aerogel 500 Tour 4D
i used to use much more of a "players frame" with a tighter string pattern (18X20) with higher string tension, but due to having some arm problems, have recently switched to more of a "tweener" style racquet with a more open string pattern and added some weight to it and have really backed off on the tension. i have also been using multifilamint syn in an effort to save the arm and would try out some new guts if they weren't so expensive i hit a heavy ball and am a frequent string breaker.
i used to hit BHBR 17G and really liked it, but do to the previously mentioned arm issue, i have gotten away from polys.
i thought that this string was going to be very similar to BHBR, and it was, except not as good. i found it to be very difficult to string, even more so than most of your hard coiled polys.
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
55 lbs, hybrid used in the mains / with alpha gut 2000 in the crosses.
Your regular string set up
still experimenting with different strings, but one of my favorites is BHBR 17, or Dunlop Black Widow in the mains, alpha gut 2000, or any other similarly softer string on crosses, 55 lbs.
Racquet brand and model string is installed in
Dunlop Aerogel 500 Tour 4D
Power (or lack there of)
you definitely have to take your cuts at the ball and you're not going to get any help from these strings, which i thought felt a bit dead. okay, i guess, for a baseliner that takes big rips at the ball. you don't get as much "bite" as i thought you would from a twisted poly.
Feel
what feel??? i felt that these strings were a bit dead and even though i strung them on the low side, still felt like i was using a paddle.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
i have not noticed a significant loss of tension after about 10 hours of play over about a week and a half.
Overall comments and feedback
not the worst strings i've ever played with, but i would pay any significant amount of money for them, as there are other similar types of strings out there that are comparable, but better performers.
39 year old 4.0 all court player currently using a Dunlop Aerogel 500 Tour 4D
i used to use much more of a "players frame" with a tighter string pattern (18X20) with higher string tension, but due to having some arm problems, have recently switched to more of a "tweener" style racquet with a more open string pattern and added some weight to it and have really backed off on the tension. i have also been using multifilamint syn in an effort to save the arm and would try out some new guts if they weren't so expensive
i hit a heavy ball and am a frequent string breaker.i used to hit BHBR 17G and really liked it, but do to the previously mentioned arm issue, i have gotten away from polys.
i thought that this string was going to be very similar to BHBR, and it was, except not as good. i found it to be very difficult to string, even more so than most of your hard coiled polys.
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
55 lbs, hybrid used in the mains / with alpha gut 2000 in the crosses.
Your regular string set up
still experimenting with different strings, but one of my favorites is BHBR 17, or Dunlop Black Widow in the mains, alpha gut 2000, or any other similarly softer string on crosses, 55 lbs.
Racquet brand and model string is installed in
Dunlop Aerogel 500 Tour 4D
Power (or lack there of)
you definitely have to take your cuts at the ball and you're not going to get any help from these strings, which i thought felt a bit dead. okay, i guess, for a baseliner that takes big rips at the ball. you don't get as much "bite" as i thought you would from a twisted poly.
Feel
what feel??? i felt that these strings were a bit dead and even though i strung them on the low side, still felt like i was using a paddle.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
i have not noticed a significant loss of tension after about 10 hours of play over about a week and a half.
Overall comments and feedback
not the worst strings i've ever played with, but i would pay any significant amount of money for them, as there are other similar types of strings out there that are comparable, but better performers.
retlod
Professional
So I picked up a Juice Pro demo from my local shop last week strung with...you guessed it, Spin Cycle. "Aw, crap," I thought. But to my surprise, in the Juice, it exhibited all of the great qualities that testers found above. It was lively and spinny, but in the 16x20 frame, its power was muted. Touch and feel were great for a poly. I couldn't say enough good things about it. Maybe it was just the frame, but I was impressed. Hated it in my Bab, loved it in the Wilson!
I am in . My e-mail is martinilluzzi@yahoo.com
Up&comer
Hall of Fame
The playtest was months ago.
Last edited:
alhex Rodriguez
New User
Hi! Sorry for the late review... I had knee surgery and couldnt use it until this last 2 weeks
Setups:
Racquet: BLX Six.One Tour (used full set)
Mains: 59 lbs - Wilson String A
Crosses: 59 lbs - Wilson String A
Normally use Alpha gut 2000 or black widow.
My review:
Power: 7/10
I felt it pretty much like a polyester but the lack of power I felt it on the control side, I could hit but definitely not the most powerful string I've used.
Feel: 8/10
It was good, nothing out of this world, again like a polyeste. My slices worked good, had nice drop shot volleys so I didnt lose my touch or it didnt affect it.
Tension maintenance:
It held up for 2 days then it started losing it, I practiced 2.5 hrs for 1 week.
Comments:
It was a better-than-average string, I liked it, but again it wasnt the best string ever. I felt pretty solid with it and I think it's addecuated for hard hitters. It is a good polyester string
Setups:
Racquet: BLX Six.One Tour (used full set)
Mains: 59 lbs - Wilson String A
Crosses: 59 lbs - Wilson String A
Normally use Alpha gut 2000 or black widow.
My review:
Power: 7/10
I felt it pretty much like a polyester but the lack of power I felt it on the control side, I could hit but definitely not the most powerful string I've used.
Feel: 8/10
It was good, nothing out of this world, again like a polyeste. My slices worked good, had nice drop shot volleys so I didnt lose my touch or it didnt affect it.
Tension maintenance:
It held up for 2 days then it started losing it, I practiced 2.5 hrs for 1 week.
Comments:
It was a better-than-average string, I liked it, but again it wasnt the best string ever. I felt pretty solid with it and I think it's addecuated for hard hitters. It is a good polyester string
