UK TT racquetaholics and tennis bums

[jazar]

Bit slack today. Only did 37 rackets. On 235 overall, which is the most of anybody (though I have been there longer than most people). No rackets for Wozniacki for her match today; I'll have to wait a little bit longer for her. Stringing for both Bryan brothers for the rest of the tournament. Strung 6 rackets for de Bakker for his match against Djokovic and he get one game for every racket strung. Got a 6-5 winning record for today's matches. At the end of today I did 4 rackets each for Chela, Giraldo and Ivanovic, so it's worth betting on their opponents.

[Meaghan]

Anyone played isospeed tour players string? Looks and feels nice....

Also considering a return to gut/poly if i can afford it or trying out a top end multi again. Last time was x1 in the rebel. I used to call the rebel an erratic stick but looking back it was the x1 going off and me hitting the fence. As i recall i hit with the same spin i just let strings go dead then. Anything else on the market you think i might try (looking for unusual set ups here....) maybe something that makes me serve like when im using prime gut and alu rough.....except. I can get more than a set out of it!

[Ross K]

UKRHS,

Multis (as a full job) VS full poly jobs... something high-end like TF X1 Bi-Phase VS one of the many newer soft co-polys strung lows (B5E, BHBR, TB, take your pick)... stringheads, discuss the differences in performance etc in ppls' opinions?

Ta

R

[origmarm]

I'm currently actually playing with both TF X-1 (mainly) and BHBR as both a full bed and a hybrid of the two to see if I can make a return to poly (likely as a hybrid). They are all in MG Prestige MPs. To describe both the stringbeds and give you a "mini review":

X-1 - I'm using the 1.18 in Red (makes a difference!) at 60lbs - (from TWE before you ask as I’ve noticed you can't get it most places strangely in red in that gauge)

Stiffer than most multis for the initial hour or so, then more of a standard multi. More so in red than in natural for some reasons. Almost a "break in period". I tend to like it during this period slightly more actually as it plays more halfway to a DuraMix or a NXT Control. Overall I would say the stringbed is crisp but not stiff (as opposed to “mushy” like some multis). Power is good and I particularly like that it feels more “linear” that some multis where there is a big power jump when you hit out. For me a top 5 is not the best multi out there.

BHBR – 52lbs. The thinner gauge (can’t remember exactly!)

This is my “poly of the moment” replacing a long time love affair with SPPP. I’ve always like the BHB but the “rough” just adds that extra edge. I like it more than most textured polys as it seems a subtle roughness as opposed to a “spikeyness” that you get with some (like Blue Gear for example) that tends to wear down quickly. It feels better on the flatter shots too as a result whereas the spikier polys tend to feel a little "vague". Tension maintenance is good for a poly and the power level is just where I like it. Soft to medium on the arm. You think it is softer than it is when hitting but then your arm tells you otherwise later on.

Differences

As to the differences in how the X-1 plays to the poly I find that (unsurprisingly!) I have more control with the poly as I can swing out more when I’m not perfectly set up for the shot. This in effect gives me more spin on the ball for the same power. With the multi I have access to more power so I’m having a great time with the finishing shots but I’m struggling sometimes to control the “hurt balls” in the rally i.e. when you’re going for more than the rally ball but not the all out winner.

Conversely the touch shots are much better with the X-1. I just don’t feel like the stringbed is flexing at all with the BHBR on the softer shots. It’s somewhat of a tradeoff though as I’m getting more cut on the ball for the drops but they are less accurate. Volleys are no question better with the X-1. Again I feel it’s to do with stringbed deflection. I feel like I have more time on the ball with the X-1 and the bed is cupping a little more. I particularly like this on the slice backhand even though the spin is less.

Hybrid of the two - BHBR mains (52), X-1 crosses (55)

This is, much as you would expect, a hybrid of the two in terms of performance. I’m getting more bite on the ball and more control on the non setup shots. I feel that I can play a more dominant rally ball overall. It’s like BHBR but with a slight “spring” to the stringbed is the best way I can describe it. Essentially the speed of the stringbed deflection is more like a poly (I don’t get that cupping sensation) but I get a more of a feel to it i.e. it doesn’t feel like a resistant plane as much.

Overall I would say that after the settling in period though this doesn’t feel as good as the pure setups. The change in feel is more noticeable than either of the pure setups. Almost like you have neither of the best points of both worlds. I feel like I can’t quite blast the winners like I can with the X-1 (now that’s joy tennis!) but I don’t have those peaks and troughs of play where I can’t quite keep a handle on the aggressive balls. Similarly I don’t get that groundstroke confidence like I do with the BHBR but I feel I can play a more varied style of tennis and can be more aggressive overall as a result.

As a “summary” of how I feel about it I’m going to say the hybrid wins out for now if I can live with the change in feel over time. Remains to be seen.

I’m curious as to substituting the X-1 for something with power but a bit stiffer (say Mantis Power Syn) and seeing how that goes.

Orig

[Ross K]

Originally Posted by origmarm

I'm currently actually playing with both TF X-1 (mainly) and BHBR as both a full bed and a hybrid of the two to see if I can make a return to poly (likely as a hybrid). They are all in MG Prestige MPs. To describe both the stringbeds and give you a "mini review":

X-1 - I'm using the 1.18 in Red (makes a difference!) at 60lbs - (from TWE before you ask as I’ve noticed you can't get it most places strangely in red in that gauge)

Stiffer than most multis for the initial hour or so, then more of a standard multi. More so in red than in natural for some reasons. Almost a "break in period". I tend to like it during this period slightly more actually as it plays more halfway to a DuraMix or a NXT Control. Overall I would say the stringbed is crisp but not stiff (as opposed to “mushy” like some multis). Power is good and I particularly like that it feels more “linear” that some multis where there is a big power jump when you hit out. For me a top 5 is not the best multi out there.

BHBR – 52lbs. The thinner gauge (can’t remember exactly!)

This is my “poly of the moment” replacing a long time love affair with SPPP. I’ve always like the BHB but the “rough” just adds that extra edge. I like it more than most textured polys as it seems a subtle roughness as opposed to a “spikeyness” that you get with some (like Blue Gear for example) that tends to wear down quickly. It feels better on the flatter shots too as a result whereas the spikier polys tend to feel a little "vague". Tension maintenance is good for a poly and the power level is just where I like it. Soft to medium on the arm. You think it is softer than it is when hitting but then your arm tells you otherwise later on.

Differences

As to the differences in how the X-1 plays to the poly I find that (unsurprisingly!) I have more control with the poly as I can swing out more when I’m not perfectly set up for the shot. This in effect gives me more spin on the ball for the same power. With the multi I have access to more power so I’m having a great time with the finishing shots but I’m struggling sometimes to control the “hurt balls” in the rally i.e. when you’re going for more than the rally ball but not the all out winner.

Conversely the touch shots are much better with the X-1. I just don’t feel like the stringbed is flexing at all with the BHBR on the softer shots. It’s somewhat of a tradeoff though as I’m getting more cut on the ball for the drops but they are less accurate. Volleys are no question better with the X-1. Again I feel it’s to do with stringbed deflection. I feel like I have more time on the ball with the X-1 and the bed is cupping a little more. I particularly like this on the slice backhand even though the spin is less.

Hybrid of the two - BHBR mains (52), X-1 crosses (55)

This is, much as you would expect, a hybrid of the two in terms of performance. I’m getting more bite on the ball and more control on the non setup shots. I feel that I can play a more dominant rally ball overall. It’s like BHBR but with a slight “spring” to the stringbed is the best way I can describe it. Essentially the speed of the stringbed deflection is more like a poly (I don’t get that cupping sensation) but I get a more of a feel to it i.e. it doesn’t feel like a resistant plane as much.

Overall I would say that after the settling in period though this doesn’t feel as good as the pure setups. The change in feel is more noticeable than either of the pure setups. Almost like you have neither of the best points of both worlds. I feel like I can’t quite blast the winners like I can with the X-1 (now that’s joy tennis!) but I don’t have those peaks and troughs of play where I can’t quite keep a handle on the aggressive balls. Similarly I don’t get that groundstroke confidence like I do with the BHBR but I feel I can play a more varied style of tennis and can be more aggressive overall as a result.

As a “summary” of how I feel about it I’m going to say the hybrid wins out for now if I can live with the change in feel over time. Remains to be seen.

I’m curious as to substituting the X-1 for something with power but a bit stiffer (say Mantis Power Syn) and seeing how that goes.

Orig

Rob, thanks mate, that's fantastic.

I've been contemplating looking at a full multi job, or maybe a hybrid, and leaving the customary full poly job alone, albeit just as an experiment.

Er... you or anyone ever played X- Bi-Phase in a Bab? If so, how was it? Also, what other multis might ppl recommend for the APD, Pure Control,

TIA

R

[forthegame]

Hi folks, Ash especially (as you've played with the subject of my post) - Head Youtek Innegra Speed MP 300.
Hit with it and I must say it was a nice hit. Strung with Babolat PHT which I thought was going to be harsh but not at all. A very comfortable, easy to swing racquet. Now firmly on my lust list for when I relapse into racquetaholicism.

[Dags]

Regarding the X-1 biphase, I also found a break-in period. I've got half a set lying around, and when I get around to using it I'll be pre-stretching.

[Dags]

I'm troubled. I have TGKs. I like my TGKs. I don't have a history of racquetaholicness. So why do I keep thinking about Vantage Bast Cores?

[Aggro]

Originally Posted by Dags

I'm troubled. I have TGKs. I like my TGKs. I don't have a history of racquetaholicness. So why do I keep thinking about Vantage Bast Cores?

Because you want to give the TGK's to someone who is on a racquet search . . . . . hint hint nudge nudge wink wink

[jazar]

Hit the 300 mark today. Hoping to get to 400 by the end of the tournament. Have 9 days left to do 100 rackets. As long as the Bryan Brothers stay in I have a chance.

[asiank90]

Does anyone know if/when genesis strings will be available in UK?

Thanks

[Meaghan]

Originally Posted by Dags

I'm troubled. I have TGKs. I like my TGKs. I don't have a history of racquetaholicness. So why do I keep thinking about Vantage Bast Cores?

Ha ha its because the bc's are better than the tgk's

[Dags]

Originally Posted by Meaghan

Ha ha its because the bc's are better than the tgk's

How long have you played with them now? And what was your previous best with another racquet? Any temptation to stray yet?

Ross, you've hit with one too, haven't you? How did you feel? Have they tempted you away from your racqueteering? Or was it simply another stick that was missing that elusive something?

[Dags]

Originally Posted by jazar

Hit the 300 mark today.

I don't think I've strung that many racquets ever. I can't decide if I see you as an inspiration or a masochist.

[Dave M]

Originally Posted by Dags

I'm troubled. I have TGKs. I like my TGKs. I don't have a history of racquetaholicness. So why do I keep thinking about Vantage Bast Cores?

Because you read in on here too often!

Originally Posted by Meaghan

Ha ha its because the bc's are better than the tgk's

They are different, I've got a pair of "microgel" prestige midplus tgks, some original donnay pro ones and they're closer than the bast cores, it's ever so different to anything else (certainly current) but does require an adjustment to get used to its ways.

[Meaghan]

Originally Posted by Dags

How long have you played with them now? And what was your previous best with another racquet? Any temptation to stray yet?

Ross, you've hit with one too, haven't you? How did you feel? Have they tempted you away from your racqueteering? Or was it simply another stick that was missing that elusive something?

Ross had mine for a bit and liked it but he's a bab man at the mo!

As for how long, since October last year I think. I wont be going anywhere else this is exactly what Im looking for, its just a matter of getting the spec right.

I had a custom Vantage which I loved, I wanted something inbetween the kps88 and Ozone Pro Tour, both superb rackets, one S&V, the other baseline, the Vt seemed to fit both needs. The other racket was a dunlop revelation superlong which along with a couple of older heads (pt600, Austrian Graphite pro and comfort edge) I found was the closest in feel for a modern racket.

Dave is right tho, they are different than anything out there today.

Does anything take my fancy, of course, the Donnays look great, and I may pick up the platinum or gold or.......

[forthegame]

Anyone know which way Djoko-DelPo will go? Djoko looks sharp now and I wonder if DelPo will get into the groove soon. Exciting. Shame it's only 3R...

[Ash_Smith]

Originally Posted by forthegame

Hi folks, Ash especially (as you've played with the subject of my post) - Head Youtek Innegra Speed MP 300.
Hit with it and I must say it was a nice hit. Strung with Babolat PHT which I thought was going to be harsh but not at all. A very comfortable, easy to swing racquet. Now firmly on my lust list for when I relapse into racquetaholicism.

Yup! Having been through a couple of the previous speed models (MP and Pro) and hated them both I was understandably dubious when 2 IG Speed 300's landed on my doorstep. However, having used them for a couple of months or thereabouts I am definately a convert. Have been toying with the idea of leading them up a touch, but actually I'm thinking I won't bother now as I am enjoying them stock, which is weird as they are not really my spec at all (or at least similar to the spec I have always played in the past).

Just got to find the right string for them now. SPPP would probably look cool as there are orange flashes on frame, or maybe SPPP and Black VS would look tasty!

Cheers

[DukeLit]

Hi folks! I posted a few weeks back about looking for some hitting partners this summer in London. I've been here for just over a week now and I'm finally feeling settled enough to miss tennis. I'm based in Stoke Newington but I'll happily hit anywhere in the city and I'm a US 4.5/5.0 player. Feel free to shoot me an email if you're in the city!
-Justin

[Aggro]

Hi guys work related question (boring i know!)

My level 3 is finishing in august - had my feedback from my tutors and I'm doing well, so thats all good!

I'm thinking about jobs afterwards and possibly applying to some tennis clubs in the local area or center's like david lloyd, esporta etc etc.

I know this answer may differ obviously depending on experience, area, how many hours available etc etc.

Q - How much per month would a level 3 coach be looking to make on average?

Trying to do projections with my current establishment and numbers aren't looking great as im now at the time of my life where i need to be saving for big things such as house/car !!

Any input would be fantastic.

If you want to send a more personal message and are more comfortable emailing me my email is: joerevelle@gmail.com

Thanks guys,

Joe

EDIT: Sorry - reason for asking is that i've been looking at the lta website for jobs and an esporta one came up in oxfordshire at a club where 3 of my level 3 coaches work and the hours are 20 - 30 per week and £25 per hour average - thats more than i make in a month !! even with travelling i would be 3x more than normal