BB 11 Mid, Delta Core Legend, Volk PowerBridge 10 Mid, EXO3 Rebel 95 Mid, Kobra Tour

[freshhh]

Hello,


I'm not able to demo any of those sticks and would like to have ur advice...

I'm looking for a control oriented racket but with a good sweetspot and safe on the arm with those characteristics :


Headlight (5-10)
(very) flexible (58-62)
strung weight (315-340)
swingweight (325-340)
pattern : (18x20 or 16x19 but will control)


Those bellow are matching but do you know how they compare?


Prince EXO3 Rebel 95 Mid
Boris Becker Delta Core Legend
Boris Becker 11 Mid (not MP/Light)
Volkl PowerBridge 10 Mid
Wilson K Factor Kobra Tour
(Head Microgel Radical MP)


I thought the Kobra Tour was the best choice but I've seen some bad critics about sensation/power...
The Prince EXO3 Rebel 95 Mid seems to be a great stick but is it as arm friendly than BB Delta Core Legend and what about the feeling over fiberglass? I heard also it was curiously not enough precise for a 18/20 pattern string...
Boris Becker : I'm a bit afraid of the weight because it's less HL, almost even... But the technology seems to be great and I loved the feeling with fiberglass so much in the past over 100% graphite like the Prince...
Volkl PowerBridge 10 Mid : very HL but weight is high & sweetspot is maybe not as good than the BB DCL...

Many thanks in advance.

 

[basil J]

BB11 mid is 8pts HL. I have 3 of them and they are all 8pts HL, 12.2 oz strung. Best frame I have used in years. Great controllable pop, great serving frame, solid at the net and back of the court and most important to me it is a very comfortable frame.

 

[freshhh]

oops mea culpa...

i'm interested about the BB 11 (the regular, not the mid, light or 2nd edition)

because the Mid is not available in my area (Europe) and also is even (1 HL).

did u try also the regular BB 11 & the DCL?

 

[banxy93]

I am currently using the Rebel 95
i absolutely love it, i hit with it for about 2 hours and had to get some
the thing i love about the stick is that for its weight (358 grams strung) it is very head light with a swing weight of only 300 grams. The control on the bat is amazing, so if your looking for control this is your bet

 

[jrod]

PB10 mid

I used the BB11mid for years and really liked it. However, I recently switched to the PB10mid. I think it does everything the BB11mid does slightly better, with the possible exception of serving (In my case the PB10mid took some adjustment but I actually like it better for serving now).

The primary gains the PB10mid offered over the BB11mid was greater maneuverablity (it's SW is like 325, NOT 337), better feel/touch, and better control particularly when flattening out shots or taking bigger cuts.

Highly recommended.

 

[freshhh]

thanks for your feedback

do u know how the PB 10 Mid (not the Mid+) compares to those sticks :

Boris Becker Delta Core Legend
Wilson K Factor Kobra Tour

is it true that the BB Delta Core Legend have a bigger sweetspot & more pop than the Völkl PB 11 Mid despite the PowerBridge but is less butterfeel (more muted/dampened)? what is the more control oriented? what is the more forgiving and allow to return a ball without a full long swing when the player lack of time? what is the most arm friendly of both? (Völkl PB 11 Mid is more HL and more flexible but... the BB DCL has move DNX and new Delta Core technology...

Wilson K Factor Kobra Tour
might be a better choice for me (much lower weight & swingweight) but i luv the fiberglass feeling over graphite and wonder if i'll have pretty much the same butterfeeling with it?

 

[jrod]

thanks for your feedback

do u know how the PB 10 Mid (not the Mid+) compares to those sticks :

Boris Becker Delta Core Legend
Wilson K Factor Kobra Tour
......

No, sorry. Never played them.

 

[freshhh]

could you please suggest me some strings for the Volkl Power Bridge 10 Mid that i can buy at TW?

only multi/copoly (no mono) or natural gut please...

solid but thin gauge (1.25 / 1.30) spin & confort friendly

tension :
25 (main) 23 (crosses)
= 55.1/50.7
or
24,5 (main) 22,5 (crosses)
= 54/49.6

 

[Buckethead]

I use BB 11 mid and Volkl DNX 10 mid for now.Volkl DNX 10(same as PB 10 even if the company says no) is a way better on ground strokes than BB11 mid,bu on serve the BB11 is better,easier,more powerful.Volkl DNX is one of the best racquets hitting ground strokes,returning serves.The feel and stability are incredible,but it lacks of maneuverability at the net and serve.
I demoed the RDiS 100 93,and this one was a really solid racquet,consistent in everything,great overall.

 

[jrod]

Not enough info to really help you but it appears as if you use and are hinting at a hybrid. I can tell you what I use, but you will have to figure out what worsk best for you. Strings, like frames, are a very personal choice.

I used to use a hybrid of Tonic mains (15L @55lbs) and Pro Hurricane Tour Crosses (17g @ 53 lbs). Tour Tenor uses this combo (although different tension) in his PB10mids. I found the contoured crosses notched the gut mains and caused fraying too quickly so I changed to a smooth, softer co-poly in Wiesscannon Silverstring (1.20 @ 53lbs). This is my current set-up. Excellent feel, power, control and spin in the PB10mid.

 

[TourTenor]

Not enough info to really help you but it appears as if you use and are hinting at a hybrid. I can tell you what I use, but you will have to figure out what worsk best for you. Strings, like frames, are a very personal choice.

I used to use a hybrid of Tonic mains (15L @55lbs) and Pro Hurricane Tour Crosses (17g @ 53 lbs). Tour Tenor uses this combo (although different tension) in his PB10mids. I found the contoured crosses notched the gut mains and caused fraying too quickly so I changed to a smooth, softer co-poly in Wiesscannon Silverstring (1.20 @ 53lbs). This is my current set-up. Excellent feel, power, control and spin in the PB10mid.

Yeah, JRod, I am very happy with the hybrid in the Volkl PB 10 mid. I have been using VS Natural Team 17g (or Wilson Natural 17g which I believe is made in the same factory) mains and Pro Hurricane Tour 17g crosses for about 3 years now. This setup works great.

The only thing I am still messing with is the PB10mid's string tension. I currently have them at 54 lbs. 52 lbs. worked well for a while but because this setup is so durable, it was eventually became too loose. I'm still playing with the tension.

 

[freshhh]

thanks both for ur strings feedback

the Yonex might be good (i selected it a while back) but ive heard almost all Yonex has a tiny sweetspot... but good racket i guess for people who have a two-handed backhand because of the long grip... whatever, the yonex is too stiff for my need...

in the same category i've tested some Technifibre, amazing control, feel solid, weapon of choice for passing shots but not flexible at all and heavy... racket is also not much forgiving and you do need a FULL swing to return the ball or it will go nowhere... New models are even better thanks to the VO2 Max Technology similar to the flexpoint concept, opposite of DNX... But I like better DNX over VO2 Max,for the butterfeeling especially with fiberglass is a joy...

if u like the Yonex, try some Technifibre, with BlackCode string, it's amazing!

 

[Buckethead]

thanks both for ur strings feedback

the Yonex might be good (i selected it a while back) but ive heard almost all Yonex has a tiny sweetspot... but good racket i guess for people who have a two-handed backhand because of the long grip... whatever, the yonex is too stiff for my need...

in the same category i've tested some Technifibre, amazing control, feel solid, weapon of choice for passing shots but not flexible at all and heavy... racket is also not much forgiving and you do need a FULL swing to return the ball or it will go nowhere... New models are even better thanks to the VO2 Max Technology similar to the flexpoint concept, opposite of DNX... But I like better DNX over VO2 Max,for the butterfeeling especially with fiberglass is a joy...

if u like the Yonex, try some Technifibre, with BlackCode string, it's amazing!

Hahaha, maybe the Yonex you have access is fake,because the ones i've played in all sizes they have the biggest sweetspot,that's a fact.Now you can say they're stiff,in some cases they can be,but not even enough to bother me,specially because i use low tensions around 54lbs depending on string,racket i can go to 50/48.RQiS 1 Tour is really soft and arm friendly.
I have tried Tecnifibre 335 16/20,but they're not even close to RDS 001 98 and RDS 002 Tour,and the RQiS 1 tour has a bigger sweetspot being 95,while 335 is 97,not to say that their specs when tested don't match to what they claim.I use Cyberflash,MSV hex,X-one,Luxilon BB Ace,Weisscannon silverstring..
But it's what works for you.

 

[prodigy_blast]

From those list, Kobra is the one I don't have. I'd prefer Rebel 95 or Volkl PB mid. Rebel has more control when Volkl mid has more spin.

 

[Buckethead]

Have you PB 10 mid users played with DNX 10 mid,or tested or whatever..
I'd like to know what's the comparison between these 2.
thanks

 

[jrod]

Have you PB 10 mid users played with DNX 10 mid,or tested or whatever..
I'd like to know what's the comparison between these 2.
thanks

Do a search. I'm pretty sure Tour Tenor and others have posted substantive comparisons. I demo'd the DNX10mid, but not at the same time as the PB10mid. I really liked the DNX10mid at the baseline, but its maneuverability was a show stopper for me since I play as much dubs as I do singles.

It's a nice racquet for sure, but I feel the PB10mid does everything it does equal or better, at least for my game.

 

[Buckethead]

i'll look for.If anybody wants some DNX mid ,i have a few brand new,2 3/8 and 2 3/4.I also have DNX V1 mid plus 5/8 and DNX 10 mid plus 5/8 $100 bucks each including shipping,Boris Becker DC Legend fr $160.

 

[freshhh]

maybe it's also very related to the string tension & model... anyway i'm not saying that Yonex rackets are pure crap, I was about to buy the RDiS 100 MP then heard about stability issue (lead tape needed) & sweetspot not as big than TW stats... and last but not least i was also concerned about the stiffness...

about Technifibre i'm not telling sweetspot is their strong point but control & precision (& solid feeling) is amazing... the 16x20 model uve tried is a more spin friendly, i think their best range are 18x20 string pattern rackets... too bad Technifibre are not doing a flexible racket with some DNX technology... their few rare models flexibles lack of power & stability...

i was also planning to buy a ProKeenex Ki 5x but then heard again about a tiny sweetspot so i give up too...

i think i'm gonna buy a Völkl PB 10 Mid or a BB Delta Core Legend... would like to know which one has the biggest sweespot, most morgiving, best for touch shots & best for groundies & serve... it seems (reviews) that DCL is doing all but... not the same butter feeling & more stiff :-(

 

[jrod]

^^^ The TW review of the pb10mid is likely to be posted within the next couple of weeks according to Danny. As for the BB frame, suggest you send TheLama an email and ask him to chime in. He knows quite a bit about the two lines. If he can't answer you directly, he will likely know who can.

 

[Buckethead]

maybe it's also very related to the string tension & model... anyway i'm not saying that Yonex rackets are pure crap, I was about to buy the RDiS 100 MP then heard about stability issue (lead tape needed) & sweetspot not as big than TW stats... and last but not least i was also concerned about the stiffness...

about Technifibre i'm not telling sweetspot is their strong point but control & precision (& solid feeling) is amazing... the 16x20 model uve tried is a more spin friendly, i think their best range are 18x20 string pattern rackets... too bad Technifibre are not doing a flexible racket with some DNX technology... their few rare models flexibles lack of power & stability...

i was also planning to buy a ProKeenex Ki 5x but then heard again about a tiny sweetspot so i give up too...

i think i'm gonna buy a Völkl PB 10 Mid or a BB Delta Core Legend... would like to know which one has the biggest sweespot, most morgiving, best for touch shots & best for groundies & serve... it seems (reviews) that DCL is doing all but... not the same butter feeling & more stiff :-(

I don't know what level you are,but I wouldn't be living on people's reveiws and comments that much.You try yourself and take conclusion yourself,because 3.0 don't know as much as a 6.0 level,therefore the 6.0 can give you a more detailed feedback,if he just evaluates the racket,that's why playtesting are made with no color neither names.

 

[TheLama]

^^^ The TW review of the pb10mid is likely to be posted within the next couple of weeks according to Danny. As for the BB frame, suggest you send TheLama an email and ask him to chime in. He knows quite a bit about the two lines. If he can't answer you directly, he will likely know who can.

I can only comment on the three BB/Volkl sticks. To really get the most out of these frames, I will also list IMHO, what I believe the NRTP rating to be.

The strength of the PB 10 Mid is, off course, its feel; its the best in the Volkl line. However, what is unique, is that the 16x19, plays as you would expect while applying spin, but it plays like an 18x20 while driving through the ball, which is quite unique. It is extremely precise, so if you do not pressure the ball at contact consistently before applying any spin, on any ball, you will miss. Additionally, the stick swings much lighter than it feels statically, but still provides a very high swing weight, so it is very, very stable. The stick is very easy on the arm. NTRP 5.5-7.0

The BB Legend feels less like a traditional Volkl and more like a softer, much better feeling Head. With that being said, at 98in2, it plows through more like a 93in2. In addition, the string bed, although it is 18x20, due to the recessed cross string grommet holes, pockets the ball like a worn-in baseball glove. The spin potential is far greater than what you would expect with this string bed, as you can be very wristy and make the short angle groundies. The plow through, due to the balance and wrap-around gromment--providing for a lot of stability--and is why it feels smaller, while driving the ball. You will find that it is very hard to miss a volley, and half volleys are the best attribute of this stick--think BB and grass. The stick is very easy on the arm, much as the PB 10 Mid, but it feels different, there is a greater margin for error, but in many ways, they play similarly. NTRP 5.0-7.0

The BB 11 Mid is the most powerful of these three frames, and it is on sale. Many players who wanted to play with Volkl but preferred the more powerful Wilson's or Head's, were able to switch to this stick from their 6.1's and Prestige's. It is as arm friendly as the other two Volkl sticks, which isn't obvious, since it is more powerful. The DNX Wings do what a player would to with much heavier lead tape. Therefore, flicking the head for numerous types of shots is easier, but with the same control and stability. The stick feels quite cushioned, but the ball response is quick, hence, the greater power, but with less control when compared to the BB Legend and PB 10 Mid while driving through the ball. Therefore, you will need to brush-up the ball a little more than the above two frames to get the same amount of spin. Lastly, you also need to use 17 gauge string and string it at least 60# or more, or the ball will fly. NTRP 5.5-7.0

Good Luck!

 

[TheLama]

Have you PB 10 mid users played with DNX 10 mid,or tested or whatever..
I'd like to know what's the comparison between these 2.
thanks

The PB 10 Mid fills the gaps that were needed to be filled as the line progressed from the C10 Pro Tour-Tour 10-Tour 10 VE-DNX 10 Mids. The T10 had 18 mains for control, and was more powerful than it's successors. The 2 additional mains added control to its predecessor, the C10 Pro Tour. The T10 VE stabilized the bridge, as does the PB line, and brought the power level down from the T10. The T10 VE was the best non-nano carbon tech frame ever made, IMO, combining the best attributes of it's two predecessors. The DNX 10 was the first generation nano, so it made the tough shots easier than the T10 VE, but it was harsher due to the DNX, and was more difficult to control. The PB 10, combines the feel of the T10 VE, with the DNX tech, making a nano T 10 VE, with 16 mains for more spin and a Power Bridge to replace the V-Bridge. Basically, the 10 Mid Line has taken two generations each time to perfect, making it the best feeling precision stick out there, and its current version, the PB 10 Mid, is just an amazing frame.

 

[crosscourt]

I am playing the BBDCL at present. I have also played the DNX10Mid, and have owned a PB10mid and and BB11Mid. I also have a Prince Rebel Exo3.

The PB10mid and the BB11Mid are not that different. They are playable mid-size rackets -- in the case of the PB10 mid you can make that very playable. The BB11mid and the PB10mid are stiffer feeling than typical Volkl sticks. The PB10mid plays lighter than its specs but fairly whacks groundstrokes and serves, and is a good volleying stick. There isn't much mystery to it, it just does what it does very well, with lots of control. If you like to play a flatter ball then it could work very well at even intermediate levels of play. Playing a big spin game with it on a clay court would be more of a challenge. To me the PB10mid is a big step up from the BB11mid. But neither have the rounded feel of the DNX10 mid. You can put something like Pro Red Code in the latter and still have a very flexible and soft feeling stick. But what you gain with the PB10mid are all the things that a stiffer racket makes easy -- particularly when it comes to serving and volleying.

The Exo 3 Rebel is different. The key characteristic is the very headlight balance and feel of the racket. Serving is easy, as are groundstrokes and volleys. The racket fairly cuts through the air. But you have to swing fast to get weight on the ball notwithstanding the weight of the racket. Somehow the heft of the stick doesn't quite translate to the weight of the shot. Still if I lived somewhere warm and dry, rather than wet and miserable, I might well play with this.

The BBDCL is different altogether. The others are all headlight rackets and have excellent point and shoot characteristics. This is much more a power spin racket and could well be the hardest of them all to play at intermediate level -- particularly if you play with a ohbh. Because the racket is not headlight you have also to work harder on your serve than the others would require. I have added weight (10grams) to mine but maintained the balance. If you want to hit a very hard and fast ball with a huge arc (which is what I am trying to do) then of all these this is the one to go for. The feel is as Lama says firm bit not in any way harsh.

cc

 

[jrod]

^^^ Lama & cc - Well stated. Very nice summaries.

 

[Ross K]

Two excellent posts above ^ imo from the lama and crosscourt. I'm pretty familiar with the PB 10 mid, BB11 mid and DNX 10 mid, but I don't think I can add to what has already been said. Re the Reb though, I'd also add this (some of which cc referred to):

Similar to... I don't know... the PSC 6.1, or the PT 630... it really puts 'body', stability, plow and 'beef' behind the shots! (I called it a club recently, though I didn't mean it in the usual negative sense but more to impart the authority and particular solidity this frame carries)... when in full flow it hits a heavy ball with ease off both sides (and is stand out excellent for my 2hbh!)... serves are powerful... feel is rich, relatively flexy... it's pretty head-light and is a very good all court rod (in a hefty kind of way!) but it's very, very good from the b-line with all that in your face power, but that comes with top-class control capacity... although it's a closed pattern I'd say it's almost like a weird, mutant, hybrid of an open pattern because it hits with a spin and looseness nearer to open pattern! (is it the holes, I don't know?)... and on the more negative side, it's not the most maneuverable imo... it can be a tad erratic in that it can seem you're sometimes putting more effort in than its giving (a common complaint that I think is due to several factors inc string/tension, climate/time of year, operator error, etc)... some find with its approx 12.4 oz static weight and SW in the 330's it can get a bit heavy after a few sets.

Hope that might assist the OP.

R.

 

[freshhh]

many thanks both for those detailed reviews, it helps me a lot !!

 

[levy1]

thanks for your feedback

do u know how the PB 10 Mid (not the Mid+) compares to those sticks :

For me the PB 10 felt stiffer and did not feel as maneuverable as the others. It did not play so much this way just felt this way. It was absolutely a precision stick but hard for me to generate power on the serve.

The BB 11 by feel was to soft for me.

The Kobra was my pick out of the ones I mentioned.

 

[TheLama]

I am playing the BBDCL at present. I have also played the DNX10Mid, and have owned a PB10mid and and BB11Mid. I also have a Prince Rebel Exo3.

The PB10mid and the BB11Mid are not that different. They are playable mid-size rackets -- in the case of the PB10 mid you can make that very playable. The BB11mid and the PB10mid are stiffer feeling than typical Volkl sticks. The PB10mid plays lighter than its specs but fairly whacks groundstrokes and serves, and is a good volleying stick. There isn't much mystery to it, it just does what it does very well, with lots of control. If you like to play a flatter ball then it could work very well at even intermediate levels of play. Playing a big spin game with it on a clay court would be more of a challenge. To me the PB10mid is a big step up from the BB11mid. But neither have the rounded feel of the DNX10 mid. You can put something like Pro Red Code in the latter and still have a very flexible and soft feeling stick. But what you gain with the PB10mid are all the things that a stiffer racket makes easy -- particularly when it comes to serving and volleying.

The Exo 3 Rebel is different. The key characteristic is the very headlight balance and feel of the racket. Serving is easy, as are groundstrokes and volleys. The racket fairly cuts through the air. But you have to swing fast to get weight on the ball notwithstanding the weight of the racket. Somehow the heft of the stick doesn't quite translate to the weight of the shot. Still if I lived somewhere warm and dry, rather than wet and miserable, I might well play with this.

The BBDCL is different altogether. The others are all headlight rackets and have excellent point and shoot characteristics. This is much more a power spin racket and could well be the hardest of them all to play at intermediate level -- particularly if you play with a ohbh. Because the racket is not headlight you have also to work harder on your serve than the others would require. I have added weight (10grams) to mine but maintained the balance. If you want to hit a very hard and fast ball with a huge arc (which is what I am trying to do) then of all these this is the one to go for. The feel is as Lama says firm bit not in any way harsh.

cc

For those of you who are into Red Code or Black Code:

I suggest that you give the new Volkl "Cyclone" a shot. It is very soft, and plays touch shots and volleys with a lot of feel for a poly. Also, it offers much, much more than a hexagonal cross section. It is shaped like a gear, and it has so much bite that stringing cross strings is a chore. Lastly, it sells for a mere $6.00 per set!

Note: I only play with gut or multi-filament synthetic due to multiple injuries.

 

[Fed Kennedy]

Hey lama, great write up. What volkl do you think would be a good choice for a strong 4.0 club player, 6 feet, 175lbs. Wristy sw forehand, one hand bh, like to come in off short balls, serve about 80mph...

 

[TheLama]

Hey lama, great write up. What volkl do you think would be a good choice for a strong 4.0 club player, 6 feet, 175lbs. Wristy sw forehand, one hand bh, like to come in off short balls, serve about 80mph...

At your NRTP level and size, you certainly do not need power, especially if you like to come in.

If you are aggressive and volley 30% or more to finish the point, look at the PB 9 and the PB 10 Midplus. If you like to rip the short balls but come in less than 30% of the time to finish-off points, then try the PB 8 out as well.

Since you are a 4.0 player, the new PB 5 PowerArm may fit you as well. It is really sweet ay 102in2, and very light at 9.9 oz, so it does a lot of the work. And of course, the PB V1 is a standout that anyone can use. I have one leaded-up to 13.5 ozs, and I use it if my shoulder is acting up.

 

[TourTenor]

Do a search. I'm pretty sure Tour Tenor and others have posted substantive comparisons. I demo'd the DNX10mid, but not at the same time as the PB10mid. I really liked the DNX10mid at the baseline, but its maneuverability was a show stopper for me since I play as much dubs as I do singles.

It's a nice racquet for sure, but I feel the PB10mid does everything it does equal or better, at least for my game.

Sorry, I missed this discussion a couple of weeks ago ... I think Lama and Crosscourt added some excellent information comparing the DNX10 mid and the PB10mid. I have played both of these sticks and here are a few more impressions ...

The key difference for me is the DNX has at least 10 added sw points versus the PB. The difference is enough that I would start to tire (lose some racquet head speed) after about 2 hours with the DNX. I don't have that problem with the PB.

Also, the balance of the PB (10 pts hl) makes it easy to not only create tremendous racquet head speed but also allows good maneuverability at the net. The DNX always was slightly more cumbersome in that regard. I also think that Volkl refined the placement of the DNX material, making some subtle changes that changed the feel of these sticks. I always felt like the DNX head had a slight collar feel in the hoop. That also translated into a bit more plough through with the ball.

To be fair, I haven't hit the DNX10mid for two years now. Perhaps I should dig one out and revisit to confirm my memory.

Hope this helps.

 

[basil J]

I use the BB 11 mid and absolutely love it. I am a 4.0 and I find it to be a very "easy" players frame . I think any one from the 4.0 level up can enjoy this frame without issue. I string mine at 6-# Klip Detonater hybrid and it is simply put:SOLID! Since switching to this frame from an 002T, my game has steadily improved.

 

[freshhh]

I've been lucky enough to test the Völkl PB 10 Mid (93 sq) & the BB 11 MP (98 sq) lately and what I found is that the PB 10 Mid has a nice smooth butter feeling but you cannot have an agressive attack game & hit big outright winners and that even with long full strokes, no power / heavy ball, only controlled & long balls... The PB 10 Mid is also lame on flat service. No power!

I found the BB 11 MP (98 sq) a great all around racket but I miss a little the great smooth feeling of the PB 10 Mid...

I hit also with the PB 10 MP and it was a bit intermediate between both with decent power but still not enough...

It's also difficult to custom PB 10 Mid with lead tapes because of the "3D shape design" at 3 and 9... Is there a trick ? Adding 4 lead tapes at the same place than the BB DCL DNX ? Will it help about the power / big winners issue?

I should add that the stings tension was low but it didnt help much and worse, strings are moving a lot !

 

[ericsson]

I've been lucky enough to test the Völkl PB 10 Mid (93 sq) & the BB 11 MP (98 sq) lately and what I found is that the PB 10 Mid has a nice smooth butter feeling but you cannot have an agressive attack game & hit big outright winners and that even with long full strokes, no power / heavy ball, only controlled & long balls... The PB 10 Mid is also lame on flat service. No power!

I found the BB 11 MP (98 sq) a great all around racket but I miss a little the great smooth feeling of the PB 10 Mid...

I hit also with the PB 10 MP and it was a bit intermediate between both with decent power but still not enough...

It's also difficult to custom PB 10 Mid with lead tapes because of the "3D shape design" at 3 and 9... Is there a trick ? Adding 4 lead tapes at the same place than the BB DCL DNX ? Will it help about the power / big winners issue?

I should add that the stings tension was low but it didnt help much and worse, strings are moving a lot !

Freshhh, did you test those rackets through TW Europe? i've noticed that they put quite some different strings in their demos...
Anyway about the mid, it is low powered means the power has to come from you, not the racket, if you want power you should test the PB8 or lower...
The 10 series are low powered and require big swings to deliver bombs.
Adding lead shouldnt be any problem, just press it on very good in the 3D design or you can also cut the lead to specific shape and size and apply inbetween, adding lead tape will only increase power if you deliver that power.
You can always drop tension, pick out some powerful hybrids to increase some power.

 

[freshhh]

Thanks for your interest!

Well it was not a demo from TW (they don't have any unfortunately). I think it was a Tecnifibre Multifeel string and the tension was (very) low...

The TW review say also that the BB 11 (98 sq) is low powered :

"Both topspin and slice groundstrokes are easy to control and the racquet responds well to an aggressive swing.

Stronger players will find lots of confidence taking big cuts at the ball with this stick. We found especially impressive control and feel on slice backhands as well as approach shots and angles. At net the racquet provides a very high level of feel and control. Stability is excellent, making the Becker 11 the perfect choice for advanced level all court and doubles players. On serve, power comes from the player's ability to utilize the racquet's mass.

So as u can read, they say the BB 11 needs the player own power like for the Völkl PB 10 Mid.

Why Am I able to have a lot power with the BB 11 and not with the PB 10, I don't think it has something to do with my abilities. Maybe you need to switch from one stick to the other to realize the BIG difference between the two!

I've also used the DCL i find it very powerful as well but much more demanding for a similar result than the BB 11.

 

[freshhh]

How is playing the BB 11 Mid (not the MP) ?

I'd luv to compare them also to the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95 & the new ProKeenex Black Ace 93 or 98...

Edit : I should add that I'm looking for a (very) HL & very souple racket with a "RA" around (60) ideally with Carbon Fiber because I like the feel !

 

[TheLama]

Thanks for your interest!

Well it was not a demo from TW (they don't have any unfortunately). I think it was a Tecnifibre Multifeel string and the tension was (very) low...

The TW review say also that the BB 11 (98 sq) is low powered :

"Both topspin and slice groundstrokes are easy to control and the racquet responds well to an aggressive swing.

Stronger players will find lots of confidence taking big cuts at the ball with this stick. We found especially impressive control and feel on slice backhands as well as approach shots and angles. At net the racquet provides a very high level of feel and control. Stability is excellent, making the Becker 11 the perfect choice for advanced level all court and doubles players. On serve, power comes from the player's ability to utilize the racquet's mass.

So as u can read, they say the BB 11 needs the player own power like for the Völkl PB 10 Mid.

Why Am I able to have a lot power with the BB 11 and not with the PB 10, I don't think it has something to do with my abilities. Maybe you need to switch from one stick to the other to realize the BIG difference between the two!

I've also used the DCL i find it very powerful as well but much more demanding for a similar result than the BB 11.

Comparing the PB 10 Mid to the BB 11 is not a congruent comparison.

However, the BB 11 Mid is much more powerful than the PB 10 Mid, and its power can only be controlled with 17 gauge string or thinner.

 

[Ross K]

How is playing the BB 11 Mid (not the MP) ?

I'd luv to compare them also to the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95 & the new ProKeenex Black Ace 93 or 98...

Edit : I should add that I'm looking for a (very) HL & very souple racket with a "RA" around (60) ideally with Carbon Fiber because I like the feel !

Just check out The Reb!... it's very h/light and flexes around 60.

 

[freshhh]

Comparing the PB 10 Mid to the BB 11 is not a congruent comparison.

Could you please tell us more about that?

How comes two sticks with similar characteristics can be so different ?

BB 11 Mid :

Head Size:
93 sq. in. / 600 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 12.2oz / 346g
Balance: 8pts Head Light
Swingweight: 330
Stiffness: 60
Composition: High Modulus Graphite w/ DNX Technology / Fiberglass
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: DNX Grip with Sensor Tour Handle
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Völkl PB 10 Mid :

Head Size:
93 sq. in. / 600 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 12.1oz / 343g
Balance: 10pts HL
Swingweight: 337
Stiffness: 59
Beam Width: 19mm Straight Beam
Composition: DNX, Carbon, Fiberglass
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: DNX Grip with Sensor Tour Handle
String Pattern:
16 Mains / 19 Crosses

 

[freshhh]

I would like also to know also if adding a little lead tape to the PB 10 Mid can help to make it as powerful than the BB 11 MP (& BB 11 Mid) or if it's more complicate than that...

TY

 

[jrod]

I would like also to know also if adding a little lead tape to the PB 10 Mid can help to make it as powerful than the BB 11 MP (& BB 11 Mid) or if it's more complicate than that...

TY

I don't believe you can get there from here. The two frames have fundamentally different construction, weight distribution, DNX amounts and placement, etc. Perhaps others have a different perspective on this though...

I used to use the BB11mid and switched to the PB10mid. I compensated for the reduced power by playing more aggressively. The result was the average level of my game came up considerably in all aspects. I liked the end result actually, even though it required a conscience decision on my part to make this adjustment. When I was using the BB11mid it lacked the control necessary to play aggressively all the time. With the PB10mid, I find it rewards aggressive play.

 

[amorco]

i'll look for.If anybody wants some DNX mid ,i have a few brand new,2 3/8 and 2 3/4.I also have DNX V1 mid plus 5/8 and DNX 10 mid plus 5/8 $100 bucks each including shipping.

Hi Buckethead, I actually have demoed both rackets(DNX10 and PB10mid) and found DNX 10 to be a much superior racket because the PB10mid has a DNX on the yoke which prevents the feel and trampoline effect that you would get on most traditional rackets. I find it better on groundstrokes and serves, I think it is very under-rated and is one of the best rackets ever made. ********** is selling theirs (DNX 10) for $79.99. Can you match that price or better? I am particularly interested in the 2 of your 4 3/8.

 

[TheLama]

Hi Buckethead, I actually have demoed both rackets(DNX10 and PB10mid) and found DNX 10 to be a much superior racket because the PB10mid has a DNX on the yoke which prevents the feel and trampoline effect that you would get on most traditional rackets. I find it better on groundstrokes and serves, I think it is very under-rated and is one of the best rackets ever made. ********** is selling theirs (DNX 10) for $79.99. Can you match that price or better? I am particularly interested in the 2 of your 4 3/8.

DNX 10's....I have a 2-3 which were used for less than 2 hours each.

 

[amorco]

DNX 10's....I have a 2-3 which were used for less than 2 hours each.

You them 2 in 4 3/8s? How much are you willing to sell them? You have pics?

 

[Anton]

Hello,


I'm not able to demo any of those sticks and would like to have ur advice...

I'm looking for a control oriented racket but with a good sweetspot and safe on the arm with those characteristics :


Headlight (5-10)
(very) flexible (58-62)
strung weight (315-340)
swingweight (325-340)
pattern : (18x20 or 16x19 but will control)


Those bellow are matching but do you know how they compare?


Prince EXO3 Rebel 95 Mid
Boris Becker Delta Core Legend
Boris Becker 11 Mid (not MP/Light)
Volkl PowerBridge 10 Mid
Wilson K Factor Kobra Tour
(Head Microgel Radical MP)


I thought the Kobra Tour was the best choice but I've seen some bad critics about sensation/power...
The Prince EXO3 Rebel 95 Mid seems to be a great stick but is it as arm friendly than BB Delta Core Legend and what about the feeling over fiberglass? I heard also it was curiously not enough precise for a 18/20 pattern string...
Boris Becker : I'm a bit afraid of the weight because it's less HL, almost even... But the technology seems to be great and I loved the feeling with fiberglass so much in the past over 100% graphite like the Prince...
Volkl PowerBridge 10 Mid : very HL but weight is high & sweetspot is maybe not as good than the BB DCL...

Many thanks in advance.

Get Rebel 95 and forget about it - I personally know 4 racket junkies (myself included) that now have nothing in their bag but Rebels.

If you got full swings, love to drive the ball deep and controll the point this racket will keep you happy for life - it's got it all.

 

[TheLama]

Comparing the PB 10 Mid to the BB 11 is not a congruent comparison.

Could you please tell us more about that?

How comes two sticks with similar characteristics can be so different ?

BB 11 Mid :

Head Size:
93 sq. in. / 600 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 12.2oz / 346g
Balance: 8pts Head Light
Swingweight: 330
Stiffness: 60
Composition: High Modulus Graphite w/ DNX Technology / Fiberglass
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: DNX Grip with Sensor Tour Handle
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Völkl PB 10 Mid :

Head Size:
93 sq. in. / 600 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 12.1oz / 343g
Balance: 10pts HL
Swingweight: 337
Stiffness: 59
Beam Width: 19mm Straight Beam
Composition: DNX, Carbon, Fiberglass
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: DNX Grip with Sensor Tour Handle
String Pattern:
16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Your original post stated the BB 11 compared to the PB 10 Mid. The BB 11 is a 98in2.

I responded that the BB 11 Mid is more powerful than the PB 10 Mid, two sticks of equal head size, as you have written to my reply.

The difference is in the lay-up and design. The BB Line is designed to be more powerful and to give the "Volkl feel" to a more powerful frame. Many Head, Wilson, and Dunlop players switched to the BB 11's because of that reason, as their sticks lacked feel, prompting the switch, but traditional Volkl sticks lacked enough power, FOR THEM.

Placing the DNX on the outside of the graphite, rather than integrating it into the frame, makes for a much different feel, but accomplishes the same principle. So the BB Line plays more cushioned, and has more "pop" from both the design and the extra 1 mm in cross section thickness. It also has less control than the DNX 10 Mid, which plays harsher, but with more feel, because the DNX is integrated into the graphite.

 

[freshhh]

Many thanks for the additional information, it helps a lot to understand better why there is a such noticeable difference.

So, u confirm pretty much the same, adding lead tape will not help much to add more punch and having kickass shots with the PB 10 Mid ?

Any clue if the forthcoming BB 11 & PB 10 Mid & MP will be reworked or if it will be mostly a new paintjob?

 

[TheLama]

Many thanks for the additional information, it helps a lot to understand better why there is a such noticeable difference.

So, u confirm pretty much the same, adding lead tape will not help much to add more punch and having kickass shots with the PB 10 Mid ?

Any clue if the forthcoming BB 11 & PB 10 Mid & MP will be reworked or if it will be mostly a new paintjob?

The 10 Line is set until the next upgrade.

The BB 11 is currently being kicked around and discussed. IMO, it is a great line, and should be upgraded and continued, whether or not Boris is playing with it, because it fills-in the gap between the Volkl Line and competitor's Wilson/Head/Dunlop's comparable frames.

I find that the PB 10 has plenty of power, but, I have played with the 10 Line since its first Tournament Pro debut, and I found all but the T10 VE to be overpowered for a player's frame. With that being said, my PB 10 Mid is 13.9 oz, and has a swing weight of around 370, so I have no problem clubbing FHs.

 

[Buckethead]

The BB 11 mid has only one advantage on Volkl DNX 10 mid:serve.
The rest DNX 10 is a way much better,i have the 2 of them,and lack of plowthru was incredible,and as well the feel and control.That Bb 11 mid seems to have worse quality then the Volkls.That's what i noticed ,but i'll put some lead on it and i'll let you guys know what i think.
DNX 10(0) should be DNX 100,for control,feel.It's a total low power racket.
One of the best rackets i've played with,but i switched to Yonex RDS 90 now ,with ,better spin,better on volleys,great maneuverability (much better than the dnx 10 IMHO),maybe because it's very HL,i guess 10.
I still want to get the PB 10,just because i love Volkls.

 

[Buckethead]

The 10 Line is set until the next upgrade.

The BB 11 is currently being kicked around and discussed. IMO, it is a great line, and should be upgraded and continued, whether or not Boris is playing with it, because it fills-in the gap between the Volkl Line and competitor's Wilson/Head/Dunlop's comparable frames.

I find that the PB 10 has plenty of power, but, I have played with the 10 Line since its first Tournament Pro debut, and I found all but the T10 VE to be overpowered for a player's frame. With that being said, my PB 10 Mid is 13.9 oz, and has a swing weight of around 370, so I have no problem clubbing FHs.

What tournaments do you play?