Understood on all fronts.
Re- the dropshots and flicks feeling better with the PARO -- that is likely due to the very high swing weight -- it makes it that much easier to tap the ball and get it to do exactly what you want, as the racquet is that much less disturbed by ball contact, due to having an easier time winning the collision with the ball. I would say the string bed has less to do with it, than the sheer swing weight itself.
In terms of something that would have close to the control of the RF97 but more spin and a bit lighter, what about a Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 with a leather grip and a few grams at 10 & 2? More open pattern than the 97D, while also being overall lighter and a nice middle ground on power. A bit more controlled and through-the-court capable than the Pure Aero 98, while also being plenty capable at generating spin.
Re- the dropshots and flicks feeling better with the PARO -- that is likely due to the very high swing weight -- it makes it that much easier to tap the ball and get it to do exactly what you want, as the racquet is that much less disturbed by ball contact, due to having an easier time winning the collision with the ball. I would say the string bed has less to do with it, than the sheer swing weight itself.
In terms of something that would have close to the control of the RF97 but more spin and a bit lighter, what about a Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 with a leather grip and a few grams at 10 & 2? More open pattern than the 97D, while also being overall lighter and a nice middle ground on power. A bit more controlled and through-the-court capable than the Pure Aero 98, while also being plenty capable at generating spin.
