Fixed clamp ubgrade? Or Wise

[Arafel]

Hey there. I have a Gamma X6 drop weight machine. I use it pretty much exclusively to string my own racquets, though occasionally I do some friends (couple times a year maybe). I've been thinking about some upgrades for better stringing consistency. The two options I've narrowed it to are replacing the current swivel table on the X6 with the fixed clamp table upgrade, or getting a Wise head. Just want opinions on value of each option. Are fixed clamps that much better? I don't think I need to replace the machine, as you can get the fixed clamp turntable for less than the cost of getting a Revo 4000 or something similar.

[Ramon]

You said you want more consistency, so I would go for the fixed clamps. The electronic tensioner will make your job go faster, but it won't be more accurate than a drop weight. Fixed clamps are anchored to a rigid table, so they won't move as much as flying clamps which need an anchor string. You can also clamp the strings closer to the frame and it won't matter how far apart the strings are, and you are probably losing tension for both reasons with flying clamps. It's easier to start the mains with fixed clamps, and fixed clamps are much better for certain types of strings pattern like JET and ATW. Your flying clamps will still be quite useful, so keep them around.

[mchjhn]

you cannot update an x6. you can upgrade the clamps on a x6 fc, meaning you already have fixed clamps, you cannot upgrade them.

if you do have an x6 with fixed clamps, go ahead and get the wise.

[beernutz]

I thought the fixed clamp upgrade for an x-6 was around $300 because it comes with a new turntable. IMO, it really makes more sense to do that upgrade before adding a Wise as putting a Wise on a flying clamp stringer is like adding a turbo to a Yugo.

[gotwheels]

A quality, less costly, value oriented upgrade, with simplicity, would be to keep your machine and add the Stringway Double and Triple flying clamps. These clamps can provide you with stringbeds similar to or equal to fixed clamps. Something to consider whether you string a little or a lot. Check with the Alpha guys at newtech tennis.

I do not recall, is your machine a six-point mount system? If so, this would be a simple, cost effective upgrade for your stringbed.

[mchjhn]

Originally Posted by beernutz

I thought the fixed clamp upgrade for an x-6 was around $300 because it comes with a new turntable. IMO, it really makes more sense to do that upgrade before adding a Wise as putting a Wise on a flying clamp stringer is like adding a turbo to a Yugo.

Correct, that's what i meant to say. its upgrade able, but its costly compared to the amount you paid for the machine.

Upgrade to fixed clamps before investing in a wise tension head.

[Arafel]

Originally Posted by beernutz

I thought the fixed clamp upgrade for an x-6 was around $300 because it comes with a new turntable. IMO, it really makes more sense to do that upgrade before adding a Wise as putting a Wise on a flying clamp stringer is like adding a turbo to a Yugo.

Yes, that's about right. And $300 for a new table is still a lot less than buying a new machine with fixed clamps. Seems like everybody agrees fixed clamps are a better upgrade than a Wise.

[Arafel]

Originally Posted by mchjhn

Correct, that's what i meant to say. its upgrade able, but its costly compared to the amount you paid for the machine.

Upgrade to fixed clamps before investing in a wise tension head.

I got the machine free off Craigs List (best deal ever!!!).

[Arafel]

Originally Posted by gotwheels

A quality, less costly, value oriented upgrade, with simplicity, would be to keep your machine and add the Stringway Double and Triple flying clamps. These clamps can provide you with stringbeds similar to or equal to fixed clamps. Something to consider whether you string a little or a lot. Check with the Alpha guys at newtech tennis.

I do not recall, is your machine a six-point mount system? If so, this would be a simple, cost effective upgrade for your stringbed.

Yes, X-6 is a six-point mount.