Question for Chris re:new blade mid

[sparkyS4]

I was wondering if you could compare and contrast the new Blade mid to the Prince Diablo mid? I read your review and would like to know your thoughts on the differences in these racquets. Thanks a lot.

[jorel]

also to the rok

(andy dufraine) if you please

[sparkyS4]

Chris, any input into the similarities and differences between the diablo mid and the new BLX blade mid?

[TW Staff]

The Diablo Mid has more of a classic box beam feel to it -- think POG, PS 85 etc. The Blade 93 does not have that same box beam solidness, but it feels faster, snappier and more responsive.

The Diablo Mid has a livelier stringbed, but both offer about equally forgiving sweetspots. I would say the Diablo is a little more topspin friendly, the Blade 93 more precise and a slightly better slice racquet. Both a great sticks and the differences are not that major when it comes to what I can do with the ball when playing with either.

The ROK has exceptional feel, but is a fair bit lower powered than the other two. It offers a softer feel and requires more from the player to get the ball away.

I would be totally happy playing a tournament with either the Diablo Mid or the Blade 93, I like both that much. The ROK not so much.

Chris, TW

[sparkyS4]

Chris, thanks for responding, I've been playing with the diablo mid for many years, I love it, but my arm seems to suffer, would you say the blade 93 is more arm friendly?

[TW Staff]

Originally Posted by sparkyS4

Chris, thanks for responding, I've been playing with the diablo mid for many years, I love it, but my arm seems to suffer, would you say the blade 93 is more arm friendly?

Both are pretty arm friendly racquets. I don't really see an advantage in comfort with one over the other.

Chris, TW