nohandedbackhand
Semi-Pro
Anyone notice the vibration frequency is 149 on the 2020 vs I think 142 or 144 on the 2018? Interesting as most people are saying it has increased flex
Yonex EZONE 2020 AO
- Thread starter Vincent Wang-Bouchard
- Start date
Classic-TXP-IG MID
Hall of Fame
I think it was mentioned that the 2020 Ezone 98 has a higher TW... that would help. Power figures on TW University Comparison Tool are very close between the 2020 version and the DR98, but when you combine the higher TW, 1 RA higher stiffness, and the slightly lower weight (which might allow for a slightly higher swing speed), you might get the results you mentioned.
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CodyZzZ
Rookie
For me, I use TW's tungsten so they come in pre-cut 3 grams. 3 grams at 12, 6 grams at 3+9 snd 12 grams on the grip. This gives an increase of around 20SW and 21 grams.
Just yesterday i had my first match with new Yonex Ezone 98 2020. I use it in stock form, with 1,25 mm strings, at 52 lb tension. My current stick is Yonex dr 98. My NTRP is around 5 / 5.5.
I must say the DR feel is definitely there, but it feels a little lighter than DR 98, meaning there is less plow through, specially on my flat forehand (not much tho).
The most impressed thing to this new stick was stability & feel. Most off center hits felt way better than DR 98, like there is a much bigger sweetspot compared to DR 98.
I must say that i played 1hbh way better and serves were awsome too. All in all, I was impressed with new yonex, definitely is my new weapon of choice.
It really feels like improved dr 98 version. I recommend it to try for all DR 98 lovers.
I must say the DR feel is definitely there, but it feels a little lighter than DR 98, meaning there is less plow through, specially on my flat forehand (not much tho).
The most impressed thing to this new stick was stability & feel. Most off center hits felt way better than DR 98, like there is a much bigger sweetspot compared to DR 98.
I must say that i played 1hbh way better and serves were awsome too. All in all, I was impressed with new yonex, definitely is my new weapon of choice.
It really feels like improved dr 98 version. I recommend it to try for all DR 98 lovers.
DanTheMan1972
Rookie
My 2 cents (sorry about my poor English):
Long time DR 98 user here (interrupted by some month of using the Pure Strike 98 2017). I use my rackets in stock form, because if I would once start to customize a racket, I would always think about changing the amount of lead tape, placement and so on. This would drive me crazy
Demoded a lot of rackets the last 9 month. But because the string and string tension is always different to what I am used to, it is hard to judge the rackets that way.
So, I bought 3 Yonex rackets for a long-term test with my go to string Solinco Hyper G 17g.
The rackets are:
Vcore 98 305 (23kg / 50,7 lb)
Vcore Pro HD (21,5kg / 47,4 lb)
Ezone 98 2020 (23kg / 50,7 lb)
I currently only play tennis twice a week for one hour on fast carped indoor courts (winter in Germany). I will make my decision late this year, when I can play a lot more (on clay courts).
My first impressions (Ezone 98):
I was a bit concerned because of the low sw, but it is surprisingly stable and doesn’t get pushed around (I had that feeling with the Pure Drive VS with the same sw but lower static weihgt).
You have to be aware of the power compared to lower powered frames, but for me the control is good and the response is predictable. When I make contact, I feel what’s happening and when I miss, I do know why (with the Blade 98 V7 16x19 and new Pure Strike 98 16x19 I hit one ball short and the next ball long sometimes and didn´t knew why – maybe because of the string job).
I like the “easy to use” character of the racket. The Vcore 98 is easy to use too, but I feel more at home with the new Ezone, because it feels closer to my DR.
The Vcore Pro HD is a different kind of racket, but I like it too. Especially volleys - absorbing pace at net and redirecting the ball feels amazing. It is easy to use for its specs, but not as easy as the new Ezone. The launch angle is different to what I’m used to. I would have to change my swing a bit to switch to this frame. I have the same issue with other 18x20 rackets like the Head Gravity Tour.
If you are looking for a DR 98 2.0, the knew Ezone is maybe not the right one fore you. It feels comfortable, but doesn´t have that super flexi throat like the DR. But if you want a bit more powerful and a bit easier to swing racket, than try the new Ezone.
Long time DR 98 user here (interrupted by some month of using the Pure Strike 98 2017). I use my rackets in stock form, because if I would once start to customize a racket, I would always think about changing the amount of lead tape, placement and so on. This would drive me crazy
Demoded a lot of rackets the last 9 month. But because the string and string tension is always different to what I am used to, it is hard to judge the rackets that way.
So, I bought 3 Yonex rackets for a long-term test with my go to string Solinco Hyper G 17g.
The rackets are:
Vcore 98 305 (23kg / 50,7 lb)
Vcore Pro HD (21,5kg / 47,4 lb)
Ezone 98 2020 (23kg / 50,7 lb)
I currently only play tennis twice a week for one hour on fast carped indoor courts (winter in Germany). I will make my decision late this year, when I can play a lot more (on clay courts).
My first impressions (Ezone 98):
I was a bit concerned because of the low sw, but it is surprisingly stable and doesn’t get pushed around (I had that feeling with the Pure Drive VS with the same sw but lower static weihgt).
You have to be aware of the power compared to lower powered frames, but for me the control is good and the response is predictable. When I make contact, I feel what’s happening and when I miss, I do know why (with the Blade 98 V7 16x19 and new Pure Strike 98 16x19 I hit one ball short and the next ball long sometimes and didn´t knew why – maybe because of the string job).
I like the “easy to use” character of the racket. The Vcore 98 is easy to use too, but I feel more at home with the new Ezone, because it feels closer to my DR.
The Vcore Pro HD is a different kind of racket, but I like it too. Especially volleys - absorbing pace at net and redirecting the ball feels amazing. It is easy to use for its specs, but not as easy as the new Ezone. The launch angle is different to what I’m used to. I would have to change my swing a bit to switch to this frame. I have the same issue with other 18x20 rackets like the Head Gravity Tour.
If you are looking for a DR 98 2.0, the knew Ezone is maybe not the right one fore you. It feels comfortable, but doesn´t have that super flexi throat like the DR. But if you want a bit more powerful and a bit easier to swing racket, than try the new Ezone.
XFactorer
Hall of Fame
OK, I got in a set of PolyTour Pro 120 in my 2020 EZONE. I have some updated thoughts.
PolyTour Pro 120 is a plasticky, comfort string (I call it plasticky, Yonex calls it comfortable). I like this set up a lot. I strung it at 45 lbs and appreciated the side-agnostic cross starts. In the previous generation, you were bound to start on one side of the racquet for your crosses. The new Liner Tech is noticeable on outer mains - the string just glides through at a more natural angle (and this most likely adds to the stability, or at least the ability for the string to move more freely on off-center shots).
The previous EZONE did not like PolyTour Pro. I got a bad twang-y feedback. I blame Hyper-MG. The new EZONE plays with the string just fine. PTP was my go-to string in the DR. 45 is my go-to tension. For some reason, Tecnifibre Black Code just gave too much pop with little spin. Maybe it wasn't at the same tension? It was a little trampoline-y for my test (and I'm a low-tension stringer!).
There's more control and spin with PolyTour Pro. Power is more tamed and I never once slung a ball into the back curtain in my 1 hour of social play. So far, so good. I'm glad the new EZONE plays nicely with PolyTour Pro. It's my favorite plasticky string. Future set ups include PT Strike, PT Air, PT Fire. I'm most interested in seeing how Strike fairs in this. It was awesome in the VCORE 98, but it only lasted 1 week and became unplayable.
More thoughts to come.
PolyTour Pro 120 is a plasticky, comfort string (I call it plasticky, Yonex calls it comfortable). I like this set up a lot. I strung it at 45 lbs and appreciated the side-agnostic cross starts. In the previous generation, you were bound to start on one side of the racquet for your crosses. The new Liner Tech is noticeable on outer mains - the string just glides through at a more natural angle (and this most likely adds to the stability, or at least the ability for the string to move more freely on off-center shots).
The previous EZONE did not like PolyTour Pro. I got a bad twang-y feedback. I blame Hyper-MG. The new EZONE plays with the string just fine. PTP was my go-to string in the DR. 45 is my go-to tension. For some reason, Tecnifibre Black Code just gave too much pop with little spin. Maybe it wasn't at the same tension? It was a little trampoline-y for my test (and I'm a low-tension stringer!).
There's more control and spin with PolyTour Pro. Power is more tamed and I never once slung a ball into the back curtain in my 1 hour of social play. So far, so good. I'm glad the new EZONE plays nicely with PolyTour Pro. It's my favorite plasticky string. Future set ups include PT Strike, PT Air, PT Fire. I'm most interested in seeing how Strike fairs in this. It was awesome in the VCORE 98, but it only lasted 1 week and became unplayable.
More thoughts to come.
tdhawks
Professional
One of my local shops received two 2020 98” demos so I’ve been using one of those for the last two weeks. He informed me yesterday that he doesn’t need to keep both demos and sold me one for pennies on the dollar. Sorry, not trying to rub it in. I’m the only one that has ever hit with that demo as well so I’m pretty stoked I got a good deal.
Long story short, it is also strung up with Poly Tour Pro at 48lbs. I normally use Tier One FireWire boost 17g strung at 46lbs. That specific setup is a poly/poly hybrid, with the mains being a shaped string. This is what I used in my DR’s for years. Great bite and control.
I’m eager to try that string in the new EZONE but I am pleasantly surprised at how well the PTP has fared. I tried that string in my DR a few years ago and I didn’t care for it one bit. It’s amazing how a similar frame changes the same strings playability by so much.
Long story short, it is also strung up with Poly Tour Pro at 48lbs. I normally use Tier One FireWire boost 17g strung at 46lbs. That specific setup is a poly/poly hybrid, with the mains being a shaped string. This is what I used in my DR’s for years. Great bite and control.
I’m eager to try that string in the new EZONE but I am pleasantly surprised at how well the PTP has fared. I tried that string in my DR a few years ago and I didn’t care for it one bit. It’s amazing how a similar frame changes the same strings playability by so much.
Crashbaby
Semi-Pro
Im also keen to know how the blue plays. Looking forward toward your thoughts.
.
Got the chance to test the ezone 98 yesterday strung with Yonex Pt pro. Currently playing with the older version of the VCore=> SVcore 98, which I found lacked the comfort and stability of a modern racket.
Overall, really like the comfort, feel and playability of the racquet, here is why:
- comfort/ stability: this is the major quality of this racquet, really forgiving on all shots and any off-centre hits. Compared to the SV core, the difference is amazing and really enjoyable
- feel: I feel like the new dampening system really absorbs all vibrations, and you can feel this on all shots. Plush feel on volleys, serves, groundstrokes. Major improvement from the SV core
-power: good level of power, slightly above average but nothing spectacular by any means
- control: good level of control, way better than any of the tweener racquet
- serves: I have not made a single double fault
, so good control vs power ratio. Again very very comfortable.
- volleys: again, did not feel any vibrations on volleys, very forgiving on backhand volleys, which is where I often mishit. (Off center)
- spin: I have tested the VCore 98 alongside and I have to admit that the ezone does not provide as much spin as the VCore, but it is not an issue for me.
Got the chance to test the ezone 98 yesterday strung with Yonex Pt pro. Currently playing with the older version of the VCore=> SVcore 98, which I found lacked the comfort and stability of a modern racket.
Overall, really like the comfort, feel and playability of the racquet, here is why:
- comfort/ stability: this is the major quality of this racquet, really forgiving on all shots and any off-centre hits. Compared to the SV core, the difference is amazing and really enjoyable
- feel: I feel like the new dampening system really absorbs all vibrations, and you can feel this on all shots. Plush feel on volleys, serves, groundstrokes. Major improvement from the SV core
-power: good level of power, slightly above average but nothing spectacular by any means
- control: good level of control, way better than any of the tweener racquet
- serves: I have not made a single double fault
, so good control vs power ratio. Again very very comfortable.- volleys: again, did not feel any vibrations on volleys, very forgiving on backhand volleys, which is where I often mishit. (Off center)
- spin: I have tested the VCore 98 alongside and I have to admit that the ezone does not provide as much spin as the VCore, but it is not an issue for me.
Crashbaby
Semi-Pro
I’m on my second go with ptp 1.2mm at 50lbs Its great on big swings and I have hit some great drop shots, but I’m sometimes a little lost with this combo, it’s maybe a little muted for me in this 2020 EZONE, perfect on my XI98 though. I’m going to put some strike in shortly, it should crisp things up a little for better feel.
I buckled on continuing my playing it stock plan and added a Yonex leather grip and two grams at 12. Trying to improve the feel, connection wise. It played more solid and improved the feel but seams way less manoeuvrable. It’s now 337grams ready to play and has a 321mm balance. Playing some social tonight for a second hit with the extra weight. I still prefer the feel of the XI98 so far. I think strike in the 2020 may be what I’m looking for.
Hansen
Professional
neither the ra nor the vibration frequency is a valid indicator of the feel of a frame
dje31
Professional
Can't directly answer this, but the 98 and100 models, even from the same line and generation are significantly different animals, targeted for different players and styles.
The 100 is usually 4-7 points stiffer in Ra rating. The balance may be less HL, but I'm too lazy to look that up and confirm it.
The 100 is more aimed for the baseline basher who thinks the net may be radioactive.
The 98 is more appropriate for an all-court players, who may also S&V.
That may help in determining which is for you.
Unfortunately, there's no way anybody can answer this. Differences in stroke production, anatomy, string type/tension and age/health conditions make this a purely subjective opinion. If you like the DR light, and it gives you no pain, who knows what happens with another racquet?
25-TENNIS
Semi-Pro
I understand. But can the slightly uncomfortable feeling of the 98 2018 be fixed by a Wilson shockshield grip or other customisation?
XFactorer
Hall of Fame
Maybe.
I loved the 2018 EZONE 98 demo that I had with a multifilament string. Then I didn't like it as much when I got my own and put in some poly. But, yes, it's only when I hit the upper hoop that I don't care for the feeling as much. However, over the last 2 years, either the racquet has softened or I'm just too used to it that it's no longer that big of a deal to me. I did not customize my racquet.
Maverick13
Semi-Pro
added 0.1oz at 12, 0.1oz at 10&2 and 0.4oz in the handle. Comes out to 12.2oz and 10pts headlight. Now if only trying to match them wasn’t such a pain.
TagUrIt
Hall of Fame
Can you be in love with a racquet? Is that even possible? I’m absolutely crazy obsessed with how much I like playing with my EZone 100!!! I am playing some of the best tennis in my life with this racquet! I have it strung with Yonex Poly Tour Pro 16L Blue and it is playing so well. I had zero complaints about anything. The racquet and string are both very responsive and both deliver spin, control and power. Such a good combination. My serves, ground strokes are so VERY powerful and volleys are effortless. I am so glad I made the switch to Yonex. I feel invincible with this racquet in my hand!!!
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justinhaughtmd
Rookie
This EZone is going to go down as one of the best Yonex racquets in recent years. I am an advanced player who plays all court and can say that this one can do it all... been liking it with Luxilon 4G lately...
ericykchan
Rookie
I want one too!! the prototype PJ is so much better than the retail version
TagUrIt
Hall of Fame
Can you sell a prototype racquet?
XFactorer
Hall of Fame
But wait for the honeymoon period to be over. Then come back to us with your thoughts.
topspn
Legend
If you’re not a retailer, why not?
TagUrIt
Hall of Fame
I only ask because it was my understanding that prototypes HAVE to be returned to the manufacturer. At least that’s how it was with the Wilson Clash.
topspn
Legend
No, the frames that are given to playtesters are theirs and are not returned. If it is given as only a demo of the racquet then yes a demo is returned.
meowmix808
New User
I bought my prototype Ezone 2020. The people who have them right now will probably get rid of them at some point so just keep your eyes open.
All of the Ezone 2020 prototypes have DEMO printed on them I think.
Just strung this one with String Project Rocket.
TagUrIt
Hall of Fame
Very interesting, I guess it would be a rare find to get your hands on one, that prototype is cool! I like the graphics and the design of the new EZONE, that blue is out of this world.
topspn
Legend
Ok, I’ll take it
ericykchan
Rookie
justinhaughtmd
Rookie
The 100 I am referring to... just an awesome frame, played 2 more hours today and I feel like I can do anything with it.
stereovili
New User
Hello TagUrlt … recently you tested the Wilson Clash. Can you compare the Clash with the new Ezone for us. Thanks!
stereovili
New User
Sorry TagUrlt …. now i read your answer in another thread here.
meowmix808
New User
Sounds like you bribed your son new rackets to steal his DR's. Dont be coy.
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TagUrIt
Hall of Fame
You won’t regret it! The EZONE 100 is an amazing racquet. That red VCORE 100 was my second choice.
edit: as of now I’m just playing it stock, my initial intention was to add weight, but I’m liking the feel and the racquet head speed is ridiculous. I’m going to keep it stock for another week or so and reassess if I need to add any weight to it.
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the vcore didn’t like my elbow too much. Argh, hoping the dampening mesh helps on the ezone. Also going to gut/poly hybrid
XFactorer
Hall of Fame
The VCORE 98 didn't like my wrist much. #TeamEZONE
topspn
Legend
Where do you feel you might need to add weight? Add a leather grip? or weight somewhere on the head? Just trying to get a sense of where you think weight would be helpful and why?
TagUrIt
Hall of Fame
Initially, I thought the racquet needed a bit more plow through. I was thinking 12/3/9 o’clock. However if I did, I would put weight at the 10 and 2 again for more plow through and have a heavier swing weight. I’ve never been a big fan of leather grips so I wouldn’t have added that anyway.
To be completely honest, the more I play with it, the more I see that I DON’T need to mod this racquet in any way. I can’t say enough good things about how it plays.
guilhermefdc
Semi-Pro
I’m curious about this as well. I recently picked up a DR 98 and have played with it a few times now. With the same string setup and tension, the launch angle is noticeably lower than the 2018 Ezone.
Tmano
Hall of Fame
I think it depends on string as well.
I personally like better round poly because of less launch angle regardless of the racquet but with the DR 98 I could get a really nice angle for sure. I can't compare it with the Ezone 2018 but I'm almost sure it could be very similar.
I tried shaped poly and the launch angle was definitely higher but not for me.
