$1500~ budget for stringing machine

[brentzki]

Hey all,

Currently trying to weigh up best options for stringing machine.

Literally impossible to find any second hand stringers here in Australia so most likely will be going brand new locally (freight internationally for stringing machines would be $$$ and nightmare).

Currently weighing up the following options (open to others, but this seems to be the best offerings in Australia):

• Gamma Progression II + WISE or other electronic tension head
• Gamma Progression II ELS
• AEF Elec 8 Pro
• Spinfire Flame with WISE Tension Head (comes with the tension head attached)
• AEF Egret 200 + WISE or other electronic tension head (cheapest option that comes with a standalone base rather than tabletop)

Thanks!

 

[Soundbyte]

I personally would buy a crack machine or save up and get an endgame professional machine like an Alpha Ghost, Baiardo / L, Tourna ES700, etc.

A crank machine will lack you forever. Theres nothing wrong with any of those machines + a Wise. But all the Quality of Life improvements that are on the higher machine are, in my opinion, worth waiting for. I used a Alpha machine with a Wise head for over 15 years before upgrading last year to the Tourna ES700. And man, it truly is a case of 'you don't know what your missing' until you use it.

Can you string effectively on an inexpensive dropweight machine? Of course. But are there nicer models with bells and whistles that are enjoyable? Hell yes. And I think your budget puts you inbetween where I don't think the extra money is worth it. I'd save up personally until I can afford a better machine.

 

[esgee48]

From your Australia only list, either go by cost, or mounting/clamping system. I assume that they have similar warranties and can be repaired on the continent.

 

[brentzki]

From your Australia only list, either go by cost, or mounting/clamping system. I assume that they have similar warranties and can be repaired on the continent.

Out of those machines listed, what has the best mounting/clamping system? I'm a bit of a rookie when it comes to stringing machine specs/standards.

 

[furStringer]

As someone that's used a Spinfire Flame, I think you'd best be served by getting the Blaze then adding the Wise later. It's got a better mounting system and has a stand.
Then I'd say the Progression models are the next best mounting and followed by the Flame and AEF models.

 

[brentzki]

As someone that's used a Spinfire Flame, I think you'd best be served by getting the Blaze then adding the Wise later. It's got a better mounting system and has a stand.
Then I'd say the Progression models are the next best mounting and followed by the Flame and AEF models.

I can actually buy the Spinfire Blaze with a Wise attached which is only really $200 outside of initial budget. The difference being that it comes with a stand I guess? So you would say that the Blaze has a better mounting system than the Progression models?

 

[alfd]

I only string 150 rackets yearly, and I have mostly been using crank machines. So I’m in no way an expert!

I have the Gamma X-ST and think the Gamma turntable and mounting system is very good and of high quality. The only downside is the quite simple base clamps that also have to be tightened up quite often (very easy to do).

The Spinfire Blaze looks like a very nice stringing machine. I would buy the automatic base clamps they offer (don’t underestimate good base clamps The only thing I would miss is the roller/diablo I’ve got on the Gamma. A downside with a crank machine that not too many talks about is that the string can det stuck quite a few places…

I wouldn’t bother upgrade a crank machine with a Wise because the crank is just as fast and accurate, but more durable. If you want an ECP I would buy the Gamma X-ELS or Progression II ELS (if you are on a budget). I think Gamma has a new tension head coming out. I also got the impression that the Gamma tension head is of better quality than the Wise.

Spinfire has a very good reputation for customer support (I have a Spinfire ball machine) - and it’s an australian company

 

[ryushen21]

Hey all,

Currently trying to weigh up best options for stringing machine.

Literally impossible to find any second hand stringers here in Australia so most likely will be going brand new locally (freight internationally for stringing machines would be $$$ and nightmare).

Currently weighing up the following options (open to others, but this seems to be the best offerings in Australia):

• Gamma Progression II + WISE or other electronic tension head
• Gamma Progression II ELS
• AEF Elec 8 Pro
• Spinfire Flame with WISE Tension Head (comes with the tension head attached)
• AEF Egret 200 + WISE or other electronic tension head (cheapest option that comes with a standalone base rather than tabletop)

Thanks!

If you are just starting out as a regular stringer, I would suggest getting a crank machine with a solid 6pt mounting system. While some of the options you listed there do have the WISE unit built into the cost or the build itself, it's a much better option to save the money and just get a crank machine or go for a purpose-built eCP machine. Yes, there is more cost associated with those kinds of machines but I have a "buy once, cry once" kind of mentality and the difference between a machine with a WISE added and a purpose-built machine are absolutely noticeable.

I am not a fan of rotational grippers, so I would not suggest the Progression II ELS.

 

[USMC-615]

If you are just starting out as a regular stringer, I would suggest getting a crank machine with a solid 6pt mounting system. While some of the options you listed there do have the WISE unit built into the cost or the build itself, it's a much better option to save the money and just get a crank machine or go for a purpose-built eCP machine. Yes, there is more cost associated with those kinds of machines but I have a "buy once, cry once" kind of mentality and the difference between a machine with a WISE added and a purpose-built machine are absolutely noticeable.

I am not a fan of rotational grippers, so I would not suggest the Progression II ELS.

You gotta explain to him though, as in your "purpose-built eCP machine" case...that the "buy once, cry once" thing was with someone else's money.

 

[ryushen21]

You gotta explain to him though, as in your "purpose-built eCP machine" case...that "buy once, cry once" thing was with someone else's money.

If I were buying personally, I would still shell out for purpose built. But yeah, it didn't hurt that it wasn't my money that bought my current machine.

 

[CVT]

It's interesting to read these responses. I use the Alpha DC Pioneer Plus with a Wise. It easily fits your cost parameters. I think I was $1200 to $1300 all in through some careful shopping. The Wise felt very worth it to me - I think dealing with linear or circular string grips and a drop weight is just too much pain.

For Soundbyte, I'm curious what advantages you got as you moved up to the Tourna ES700. I know I don't want to shell out that much for as little as I string (maybe once a month), but I was just wondering what I am missing.

 

[tjanev]

Also, consider the pro's pro tomcat mt-400.

 

[ryushen21]

It's interesting to read these responses. I use the Alpha DC Pioneer Plus with a Wise. It easily fits your cost parameters. I think I was $1200 to $1300 all in through some careful shopping. The Wise felt very worth it to me - I think dealing with linear or circular string grips and a drop weight is just too much pain.

For Soundbyte, I'm curious what advantages you got as you moved up to the Tourna ES700. I know I don't want to shell out that much for as little as I string (maybe once a month), but I was just wondering what I am missing.

I'm not @Soundbyte but I can provide some insight.

Purpose-built machines are just that. They are designed specifically for that exact setup and can incorporate additional features based on the design of the machine. The table height, degree of rotation, pull height, pull angle, etc. are all intentionally built to function specific to the design. Everything is made to work together in perfect harmony.

 

[brentzki]

I'm not @Soundbyte but I can provide some insight.

Purpose-built machines are just that. They are designed specifically for that exact setup and can incorporate additional features based on the design of the machine. The table height, degree of rotation, pull height, pull angle, etc. are all intentionally built to function specific to the design. Everything is made to work together in perfect harmony.

I’ve been reading threads here on WISE installed units and issues such as no 360 degree rotation, making sure it’s a straight pull and not an angle etc. Seems like there’s a lot of variables you need to consider when going with a WISE + stringer vs purpose built ~budget~ eCP like a Gamma Progression ELS? Surely the Gamma will provide comparable string jobs to a WISE installed stringer?

 

[CVT]

I have definitely solved the 360 degree rotation issue, but I'm curious about the straight/angle pull issue. I can see how that will impact the pulling forces and friction, but don't all stringers have that to a degree? With the grommets at the throat needing to clear the rest of the frame, you pretty much need the string to be angled. I feel that the angle I get would be about the same as even a high end stringer. Any less and the string would rub on the racquet frame when you string through the throat grommets. Let me know if I'm off base on that, as I am a relative newbie stringer.

Right or wrong, I feel like I get the main benefits (constant pull, fixed clamps, 6 pt support, 360 degrees) of higher end machines as far as quality of stringing. I'm sure that the higher end ones are much more of a pleasure to use, especially for higher volume. I'm happy to be corrected though - I appreciate any thoughts on that!

I do get a slight bit of pullback on my fixed clamps when I release the string tension. It really bugs me to see it, though many have commented that it's not a big deal. I've tried tightening the clamps but so far haven't succeeded in stopping it outright. I'm not sure how much it moves - probably just a millimeter or two. Is there an upgrade to the Alpha fixed clamps that is a meaningful improvement?

 

[ryushen21]

I’ve been reading threads here on WISE installed units and issues such as no 360 degree rotation, making sure it’s a straight pull and not an angle etc. Seems like there’s a lot of variables you need to consider when going with a WISE + stringer vs purpose built ~budget~ eCP like a Gamma Progression ELS? Surely the Gamma will provide comparable string jobs to a WISE installed stringer?

My only issue with the Gamma ELS is that it's a rotational gripper and not linear pull. If that doesn't bother you, go for it.

I have definitely solved the 360 degree rotation issue, but I'm curious about the straight/angle pull issue. I can see how that will impact the pulling forces and friction, but don't all stringers have that to a degree? With the grommets at the throat needing to clear the rest of the frame, you pretty much need the string to be angled. I feel that the angle I get would be about the same as even a high end stringer. Any less and the string would rub on the racquet frame when you string through the throat grommets. Let me know if I'm off base on that, as I am a relative newbie stringer.

Right or wrong, I feel like I get the main benefits (constant pull, fixed clamps, 6 pt support, 360 degrees) of higher end machines as far as quality of stringing. I'm sure that the higher end ones are much more of a pleasure to use, especially for higher volume. I'm happy to be corrected though - I appreciate any thoughts on that!

I do get a slight bit of pullback on my fixed clamps when I release the string tension. It really bugs me to see it, though many have commented that it's not a big deal. I've tried tightening the clamps but so far haven't succeeded in stopping it outright. I'm not sure how much it moves - probably just a millimeter or two. Is there an upgrade to the Alpha fixed clamps that is a meaningful improvement?

If your bases fit a 12mm post, get the universal clamps from Tourna. They're awesome.

 

[brownbearfalling]

I would vote for the Gamma ELS from your list. It’s is a work horse. Sure linear tensioners are better but rotational grippers will produce good results too. For the price you can’t beat. Prince NEOS are now more expensive than the ELS. I agree with everyone that gamma machines don’t have the best mounting system and clamp base technology but it’s better than Chinese Babolat knockoffs.

if you have flexibility in your budget, look at the Gamma XLT. It’s the best deal on a linear tensioner electronic machine. Ive been on a 5800 els and it’s a sturdy machine.

 

[USMC-615]

I have definitely solved the 360 degree rotation issue, but I'm curious about the straight/angle pull issue. I can see how that will impact the pulling forces and friction, but don't all stringers have that to a degree? With the grommets at the throat needing to clear the rest of the frame, you pretty much need the string to be angled. I feel that the angle I get would be about the same as even a high end stringer. Any less and the string would rub on the racquet frame when you string through the throat grommets. Let me know if I'm off base on that, as I am a relative newbie stringer.

Right or wrong, I feel like I get the main benefits (constant pull, fixed clamps, 6 pt support, 360 degrees) of higher end machines as far as quality of stringing. I'm sure that the higher end ones are much more of a pleasure to use, especially for higher volume. I'm happy to be corrected though - I appreciate any thoughts on that!

I do get a slight bit of pullback on my fixed clamps when I release the string tension. It really bugs me to see it, though many have commented that it's not a big deal. I've tried tightening the clamps but so far haven't succeeded in stopping it outright. I'm not sure how much it moves - probably just a millimeter or two. Is there an upgrade to the Alpha fixed clamps that is a meaningful improvement?

Drawback is going to happen regardless of machine. To counteract the drawback and just about minimize it on my end with my machines (except the NEOS), after I clamp the string, I ease the base in the direction of the pull, lock the base, then release tension. Works for me.

 

[USMC-615]

I’ve been reading threads here on WISE installed units and issues such as no 360 degree rotation, making sure it’s a straight pull and not an angle etc. Seems like there’s a lot of variables you need to consider when going with a WISE + stringer vs purpose built ~budget~ eCP like a Gamma Progression ELS? Surely the Gamma will provide comparable string jobs to a WISE installed stringer?

360 deg rotation is all dependent on what machine the Wise is being mounted to…some need an adapter plate, some don’t. As far as angles of pulling, I’m unaware of any machine that doesn’t involve a little human intervention to help achieve as straight of a pull as possible.

 

[Soundbyte]

It's interesting to read these responses. I use the Alpha DC Pioneer Plus with a Wise. It easily fits your cost parameters. I think I was $1200 to $1300 all in through some careful shopping. The Wise felt very worth it to me - I think dealing with linear or circular string grips and a drop weight is just too much pain.

For Soundbyte, I'm curious what advantages you got as you moved up to the Tourna ES700. I know I don't want to shell out that much for as little as I string (maybe once a month), but I was just wondering what I am missing.

It's all about quality of life with the machines. A Gamma or other + a WISE will 100% serve your purpose. I formerly had a Alpha Axis Pro + WISE for a long time.

Pros of the Tourn-700 over the old setup:
1. Mounting system is WAY better. 6 points,V-mounts. Easy adjusting knobs. Adjusting the support columns is also much easier
2. The clamps! The clamps, arguably the most important part of the machine, are way better on the higher quality machine. Easy to adjust, narrow (better fits for getting closer to frame when clamping to minimize tension loss)
3. Turntable is silky smooth
4. The clamp bases with gravity + push-down style are just much much easier to use when stringing frames.
5. The gripper and puller are easier to activate.
6. The knot function is for a single pull (aka I only have to press it once; not turn it 'on' and then 'turn it off')
7. Multiple memory slots for frequently used tensions, various pull speeds
8. 360 degree rotation

Like I said...the end result is a strung racket. You can achieve the same result with a cheap drop weight stringer. If you're only going to string your own frames once a month, then it might not be worth it for a "purpose-driven" machine. But at the same time, a crank-based machine will last you forever, in the event you start stringing more frames or pawn it off your progeny down the road to make money while in school (that's how I started stringing at age 14).

That why I felt your budget is kinda in the 'in between' territory, althought now I'm realizing you meant$1500 AUD, which is about $875 USD. So thats still in the early functional machine range. I see an Australian equivalent of my machine (quick google search looking at models sold in TW australia) goes for close to $3100 AUD. So yea...just get what you can get and you'll be happy. It'll get the job done!

 

[brentzki]

It's all about quality of life with the machines. A Gamma or other + a WISE will 100% serve your purpose. I formerly had a Alpha Axis Pro + WISE for a long time.

Pros of the Tourn-700 over the old setup:
1. Mounting system is WAY better. 6 points,V-mounts. Easy adjusting knobs. Adjusting the support columns is also much easier
2. The clamps! The clamps, arguably the most important part of the machine, are way better on the higher quality machine. Easy to adjust, narrow (better fits for getting closer to frame when clamping to minimize tension loss)
3. Turntable is silky smooth
4. The clamp bases with gravity + push-down style are just much much easier to use when stringing frames.
5. The gripper and puller are easier to activate.
6. The knot function is for a single pull (aka I only have to press it once; not turn it 'on' and then 'turn it off')
7. Multiple memory slots for frequently used tensions, various pull speeds
8. 360 degree rotation

Like I said...the end result is a strung racket. You can achieve the same result with a cheap drop weight stringer. If you're only going to string your own frames once a month, then it might not be worth it for a "purpose-driven" machine. But at the same time, a crank-based machine will last you forever, in the event you start stringing more frames or pawn it off your progeny down the road to make money while in school (that's how I started stringing at age 14).

That why I felt your budget is kinda in the 'in between' territory, althought now I'm realizing you meant$1500 AUD, which is about $875 USD. So thats still in the early functional machine range. I see an Australian equivalent of my machine (quick google search looking at models sold in TW australia) goes for close to $3100 AUD. So yea...just get what you can get and you'll be happy. It'll get the job done!

Haha I mean't USD to not confuse the US people who mostly post here Looking to spend like $2000-$2500 AUD, would you consider that the "inbetween range"? What stringer did you see for $3100 AUD thats equivalent of yours?

 

[furStringer]

Haha I mean't USD to not confuse the US people who mostly post here Looking to spend like $2000-$2500 AUD, would you consider that the "inbetween range"? What stringer did you see for $3100 AUD thats equivalent of yours?

AEF CM7?

You could also get a Pro's Pro Tomcat shipped for ~$2k AUD from WD in the UK. 2.2k with a stand.

 

[CVT]

Thanks for the response, Soudbyte. I don't discount anything you've said. That said, the points that you made that speak to me most are #2 and #4. I'll probably only string 12 racquets in a year, so the marginal cost of an expensive stringer just doesn't pan out for inconveniences. I can't really see a good return on extra investment. I do think I can string very accurately and consistently with this setup, though.

 

[brentzki]

AEF CM7?

You could also get a Pro's Pro Tomcat shipped for ~$2k AUD from WD in the UK. 2.2k with a stand.

I just googled it and yep looks like you are correct. Would you recommend this over the progression ELS? Anyone else here that could provide suggestions?

 

[alfd]

When I bought my Gamma X-ST, a local dealership was very important to me.

However, if I was buying a machine all over again I would strongly consider the Stringway MS200. Stringway seems to have excellent customer support and can send all over the world. In addition to buy a high quality stringing machine I think you get an engineering piece of beauty

 

[furStringer]

I just googled it and yep looks like you are correct. Would you recommend this over the progression ELS? Anyone else here that could provide suggestions?

So it looks to me like the AEF CM7 is a rebadged Pro’s Pro Tomcat.
So for $900 AUD more you will have a local supplier and all your ACCC cover.

I think you’ll find people are very positive about both the Gamma and the Tomcat on this forum so you should be fine with either.
Benefits over the Gamma include the linear gripper, automatic base clamps, and only 2 arm dials vs 4.

I don’t think you’d regret buying any of the 3. I’d personally be tempted by the AEF.

 

[brentzki]

So it looks to me like the AEF CM7 is a rebadged Pro’s Pro Tomcat.
So for $900 AUD more you will have a local supplier and all your ACCC cover.

I think you’ll find people are very positive about both the Gamma and the Tomcat on this forum so you should be fine with either.
Benefits over the Gamma include the linear gripper, automatic base clamps, and only 2 arm dials vs 4.

I don’t think you’d regret buying any of the 3. I’d personally be tempted by the AEF.

Just got an email from supplier for Tomcat. Can get for $2200 AUD delivered, no extra costs. Would it be worth the $900 for a local supplier? I guess it would come down to support for both AEF and Pro's Pro.....

 

[Soundbyte]

Definitely get a machine that someone local (or at least not international) can service if you ever run into an issue.

The AEF CM7 is what I was referencing from TW Australia. I didn't look much deeper than that.

Regarding the clamps, on some machines you can actually add after market clamps, so that may be an option if there's a particular style you're looking for.

 

[furStringer]

Just got an email from supplier for Tomcat. Can get for $2200 AUD delivered, no extra costs. Would it be worth the $900 for a local supplier? I guess it would come down to support for both AEF and Pro's Pro.....

Only you can put a price on how important local warranty and repair is to you.
Anecdotally I bought my Wise from WD haven’t had any problems, I haven’t needed a repair though.

 

[brentzki]

I'm leaning towards the Spinfire Blaze with Wise Tension Head. Looks like their supplier/support is based here in Melbourne. Comes attached with the WISE and pre-installed with an elevated turntable attachment to allow for 360 degree and linear grip rotation. Looks like its about $2600 AUD with automatic clamps. I can't seem to find any AEF website anywhere... Don't know where there support or service would come from if I was to get an AEF CM7....

 

[USMC-615]

Prob should've asked this question earlier on, and I may've missed it if you clarified, but what specific machine are you referring to when you say "Progression II" in your list of choices? There are two or three lower cost models, as well as higher ones, of Gamma's as you know that are "Progression II" series.

This would be my take on it if I were in your shoes and looking to spend $2-2.5K USD...Get a Progression ST II ($1100 + tax), add a Wise 2086 ($675 includes tax), add the Gamma Premium stand ($200 + tax), then add but not necessary but sure it makes it convenient for mobility, Gamma casters; set of four (approx $85-88 includes tax) to the Premium stand...total drive out is ballpark $2085 then add some tax for what figures were not taxed that I mentioned. All items mentioned ship free here with the exception of the Gamma casters from Gamma, and the approx $85-88 includes their shipping charge and tax. You end up with two tension heads...original ST II crank/lockout tension head with diablo, and the Wise 2086. If anything ever happens to the Wise and needs to be sent for service (highly unlikely), you've got the crank/lockout tension head as a backup.

Of course this is purchasing here in the US at current pricing at different retailers...how it will end up cost-wise in Australia I have no clue (may have to take out a second mortgage or rob a bank one).

 

[ryushen21]

Just got an email from supplier for Tomcat. Can get for $2200 AUD delivered, no extra costs. Would it be worth the $900 for a local supplier? I guess it would come down to support for both AEF and Pro's Pro.....

That's a question only you can answer. But the Tomcat looks like a great option. Did that price you were quoted include the stand?

 

[ryushen21]

Prob should've asked this question earlier on, and I may've missed it if you clarified, but what specific machine are you referring to when you say "Progression II" in your list of choices? There are two or three lower cost models of Gamma's as you know that are "Progression II" series.

This would be my take on it if I were in your shoes and looking to spend $2-2.5K USD...Get a Progression ST II ($1100 + tax), add a Wise 2086 ($675 includes tax), add the Gamma Premium stand ($200 + tax), then add but not necessary but sure it makes it convenient for mobility, Gamma casters; set of four (approx $85-88 includes tax) to the Premium stand...total drive out is ballpark $2085 then add some tax for what figures were not taxed that I mentioned. All items mentioned ship free here with the exception of the Gamma casters from Gamma, and the approx $85-88 includes their shipping charge and tax. You end up with two tension heads...original ST II crank/lockout tension head with diablo, and the Wise 2086. If anything ever happens to the Wise and needs to be sent for service (highly unlikely), you've got the crank/lockout tension head as a backup.

Of course this is purchasing here in the US at current pricing at different retailers...how it will end up cost-wise in Australia I have no clue (may have to take out a second mortgage or rob a bank one).

He could sell a kidney or part of his liver before resorting to bank robbery. Let's not drive people to a life of crime just start stringing!

 

[furStringer]

I'm leaning towards the Spinfire Blaze with Wise Tension Head. Looks like their supplier/support is based here in Melbourne. Comes attached with the WISE and pre-installed with an elevated turntable attachment to allow for 360 degree and linear grip rotation. Looks like its about $2600 AUD with automatic clamps. I can't seem to find any AEF website anywhere... Don't know where there support or service would come from if I was to get an AEF CM7....

Same place selling the Blaze are selling the CM7. So I’d assume they will support it.

 

[tennisandtennis]

I’m a novice stringer with a NEOS 1000 and Wise 2086. I string for myself and a few friends. Including two new Gamma starting clamps and an awl, it cost me about $1600 USD used. I should see it paid off within a few years and the ease of use of a standing machine and an electronic tensioner seem well worth it to me.

More-experienced stringers will have a lot of good advice here, but I think some of the differences among purpose-built machines and cobbled-together ones (like a Wise-adapted rig) might matter a lot more if you’re stringing 10 racquets a day for a D1 team or working an 8-hour shift at a pro shop. For me, my rig works, I don’t have to think about it much, and my racquets come out looking and feeling great. YMMV.

 

[USMC-615]

I’m a novice stringer with a NEOS 1000 and Wise 2086. I string for myself and a few friends. Including two new Gamma starting clamps and an awl, it cost me about $1600 USD used. I should see it paid off within a few years and the ease of use of a standing machine and an electronic tensioner seem well worth it to me.

More-experienced stringers will have a lot of good advice here, but I think some of the differences among purpose-built machines and cobbled-together ones (like a Wise-adapted rig) might matter a lot more if you’re stringing 10 racquets a day for a D1 team or working an 8-hour shift at a pro shop. For me, my rig works, I don’t have to think about it much, and my racquets come out looking and feeling great. YMMV.

They’re all purpose built when it comes down to it. The NEOS 1000 strings volumes of racquets on a daily basis today just like it has for decades, whether in an at-home setting, pro shop, or retail setting...TW here is a prime example of the latter.

 

[tennisandtennis]

They’re all purpose built when it comes down to it. The NEOS 1000 strings volumes of racquets on a daily basis today just like it has for decades, whether in an at-home setting, pro shop, or retail setting...TW here is a prime example of the latter.

you’re the reason I got the NEOS — thanks!

 

[TR3NT]

@brentzki did you end up deciding on one to get? I am also in Aus and currently going through the exact same decision process.