Diary of a Racketaholic

[ryushen21]

Oh yes it does. The platinum is just very very picky about string and tension.

 

[Ross K]

Naww dude, the psgt is a GROAT stick as well. Everyone is different. You can not go wrong with either.

Agree ^.

Prior to rediscovering the nirvanic beauty of the TGKPP, I was starting to get into the Pure Control standard (virtually the same racket a the PSTGT.) You like a box beam? You want good, good spin and big b-line performance? Nice control and precision? Solidness? Some touch?...

Yep, if I hadn't decided to take another peak in the direction of my PPs, I'd be definitely exploring the Pure Control/PSTGT. Great frames.

R

 

[JGads]

Platinum Night. 99 joined the party, first time in a couple weeks.

Impressions:

94: Whippier, more control, less fliers, just all around solidity on every shot, from serves to groundies. Serves are great, serious pop is there when you really go after it, but the smaller head needs the timing of it all.

99: A little more sluggish - especially noticeable on certain forehands that sail long. When given time to load up, though, can crack some unreal lasers. Bigger sweet spot means better, more penetrating backhands. Serves? Absolutely, positively ridiculous. I have never served better than I did with this frame tonight. Bombs were constantly there and so insanely easy to find time after time, kickers were just shooting upward and eating the other guy up.

FYI, the 10g buttcap was in each. Will be playing again with both tomorrow night, and then one of them will be my frame in a league match this weekend (still probably the 94).

Also ended the night with 10 minutes of rallying with the BC20. More goodness. Such a sweet ride. Feel is preferred to the Donnays BUT ... the insane serving capabilities of the Platinum series now has me thinking that at some point soon I'll be a Donnay man once more. The laser show is something I just can't look away from.

 

[Ross K]

Diary dudes,

Playing tomorrow and I'm packing my TGK PP.

Among other things last week, I couldn't get over the solidness, control, the balance and weighting, and - and this is one notable area where it wins out for me over the PC/PST - the speed and whippiness... with lead @ 12, this thing flies through the zone like a high performance race car!... as PED said, this frame sure has a whole different rythym and super-fast speed.

Peace be among you my racketaholic brothers.

R

 

[Meaghan]

Diary dudes,

Playing tomorrow and I'm packing my TGK PP.

Among other things last week, I couldn't get over the solidness, control, the balance and weighting, and - and this is one notable area where it wins out for me over the PC/PST - the speed and whippiness... with lead @ 12, this thing flies through the zone like a high performance race car!... as PED said, this frame sure has a whole different rythym and super-fast speed.

Peace be among you my racketaholic brothers.

R

Ross you've prob mentioned before but is there a lot of difference between the retail version and the tgk.
I think my doubles partner would like it. He's after a new racket, plays with an i.rad with a massive grip on it. He likes the feel of my bc20. Im thinking its the ytpp or a custom Vt. Trouble is getting a couple at a good price. He's 16/17 and pocket money is not what it was in the days of Heseltine and the Thatch! Think he has about 150 tops......

 

[Ross K]

Ross you've prob mentioned before but is there a lot of difference between the retail version and the tgk.
I think my doubles partner would like it. He's after a new racket, plays with an i.rad with a massive grip on it. He likes the feel of my bc20. Im thinking its the ytpp or a custom Vt. Trouble is getting a couple at a good price. He's 16/17 and pocket money is not what it was in the days of Heseltine and the Thatch! Think he has about 150 tops......

Rich,

There's actually some conflicting views on differences between retail and TGK PP, but IMO, well, I'm with esteemed TT member Big Bang...

I got a bag full of 238.5´s and find them to play quite different from the retail version. Everything is just better IMO, more flex, more solid, more control and more power. Very nice frame!

And of course you can mod them up to your requirements too.

That said, the retail is a great racket also. Just a slight drop off perhaps in general performance/build quality, whatever. But not really a biggie I think , unless you're an advanced player (which I'm not), or a racketaholic ("Cough, cough." :roll: )

Re where he can pick up TGKs/retails... the first is devilishly difficult and very expensive. As for retails, I think they've held their price thus far, so, hmm, fboy, if you're lucky? Otherwise just hunt around the usual stores.

See below for excellent links (including one started by another TT legend, the incomparable ClubHoUno.)


R

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=358230

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=375443

 

[el sergento]

He likes the feel of my bc20. Im thinking its the ytpp or a custom Vt. Trouble is getting a couple at a good price. He's 16/17 and pocket money is not what it was in the days of Heseltine and the Thatch! Think he has about 150 tops......

I bought two retail YTK PP's for $100 + shipping. I bought 2 of them off these boards and you can definitely track some more down at around the same price. The first one was new, with plastic on handle and the second one is 9/10.

So, with shipping to the UK, 150 $'s, not #'s, should be attainable. Also, the pallet system means that you can track them down in any grip size. The second one I got is in a 4 5/8's grip, but I'll be putting on a TK82s pallet on there.

Good luck

 

[el sergento]

Rich,There's actually some conflicting views on differences between retail and TGK PP

Hey Ross, don't know if you're much of a gear head, but could you give me some details on the TGK ie. balance, weight, SW?

I'm dead set on my PP's but I love me some tinkering. Especially for when I finally get my second PP in (Canada Pest.......errr, Post, is still on strike).

I've actually been playing mine pretty much stock. The only mod's have been to replace the leather with synthetic and add silicone to compensate for the weight difference.

Not long ago I removed the lead I had close to the hoop and the extra counter balancing weight I had put in the handle.

Stringing at lower tensions means that I now get nice and easy power without the added lead at the hoop.

However, I played with a 6.1 this weekend and I must say, as a previous 6.1 user, I miss the plow!. Not that the PP is a wimp, far from it, but just a tad more plow would be welcome. I'm thinking of 2-3 grams at 3&9......... we'll see.

 

[Power Player]

I am sticking with the 99s and not trying the 94. I just don't see the need. I personally do not find the 99 sluggish in any way..almost the opposite of sluggish BUT I will put the 10g buttcap in one to see how that goes since I have yet to try it out.


I am also stringing up a hybrid with the same crosses (POSG) and different mains (BMagic and Black Mamba) to compare the 2. I will try the buttcap also and that will be my return the game of tennis.

I think the 99 is so good at serving that I really can not see a better option besides a pure drive.

 

[el sergento]

I am sticking with the 99s and not trying the 94. I just don't see the need. I personally do not find the 99 sluggish in any way..almost the opposite of sluggish BUT I will put the 10g buttcap in one to see how that goes since I have yet to try it out.


I am also stringing up a hybrid with the same crosses (POSG) and different mains (BMagic and Black Mamba) to compare the 2. I will try the buttcap also and that will be my return the game of tennis.

I think the 99 is so good at serving that I really can not see a better option besides a pure drive.

So are you back on the courts yet PP? What was the treatment for your wrist finally, just some anti-inflammatories and rest I imagine.

I'm actually going to take a self imposed sabbatical soon. As my FH grip has moved more towards a hard SW, I've developed this callous on the right side of the base knuckle of my index finger. The callous now puts pressure on either a vein or a nerve and I'm getting a pins and needles feeling in my index finger. After a long session, my finger is actually numb

At first I thought it was my back, but it's very obviously my hand because when I press down on that callous my finger tingles. Any way, don't know what to do about it. Might have to try a larger grip size or put the stock Head pallets back on my racquets.

Such a harsh sport. Hockey players play well into their 40's and yet Agassi retired a cripple at 36.

 

[Power Player]

Yes, AI's and rest. It is definitely much better, but I need to prevent it from returning. I plan to string a racquet tonight to prepare myself for my return to the game. VERY stoked to hit again with my Platinums and try out a hybrid setup again.

 

[JGads]

I am sticking with the 99s and not trying the 94. I just don't see the need. I personally do not find the 99 sluggish in any...

I think the 99 is so good at serving that I really can not see a better option besides a pure drive.

To be honest, I don't think the Pure Drive even touches it. Once you get the timing down, the 94 serves Prestige bombs but the timing needs to be there. With the 99, the serves are beyond anything I've ever hit with before, and the bigger sweet spot means the timing doesn't always have to be dead on. I mean, the serves I was cracking last night with the 99 should be illegal in some states. I was positively blown away, feeling like I'd turned into Pistol Pete. In the end I think I like the groundie comfort I have with the 94, but the 99 service bombs are becoming ever so addicting, as you can see.

Best of luck in your return, PP. Pulling for that wrist to come through. Just ease yourself back in slowly, obviously.

 

[Fed Kennedy]

However, I played with a 6.1 this weekend and I must say, as a previous 6.1 user, I miss the plow!. Not that the PP is a wimp, far from it, but just a tad more plow would be welcome. I'm thinking of 2-3 grams at 3&9......... we'll see.

Fusion of Prestige Pro whip and cosmetics and Wilson 6.1 BCF (ball crush factor) is one of the top priorities facing tennis today. We need the two racquets to fuse.

I attempted to 6.1-tize my Prestige Pro in this 3g at 3 and 9 fashion. It gave it a really sweet solid old school feel with an easy swingweight. It was awesome on blocked one handers and half volleys. Best setup I found with that stick. Unfortunately, I got impatient and scurried back to the W.

 

[JGads]

Fed,

Come on, now. You post without reporting your Lovitz-setup findings? How'd it go?

 

[Fed Kennedy]

Dude Lovitz was on fire! I have lots of thoughts but I have to get my ass to work, I will return when I get off...

 

[el sergento]

Fusion of Prestige Pro whip and cosmetics and Wilson 6.1 BCF (ball crush factor) is one of the top priorities facing tennis today. We need the two racquets to fuse.

I attempted to 6.1-tize my Prestige Pro in this 3g at 3 and 9 fashion. It gave it a really sweet solid old school feel with an easy swingweight. It was awesome on blocked one handers and half volleys. Best setup I found with that stick. Unfortunately, I got impatient and scurried back to the W.

That's exactly what I must attempt, in order to achieve "perfection", to attain "nirvana", I must create an nPrestige Pro 6.1.

Dark nights lie ahead my friends, dark dark nights. :twisted:

 

[Fed Kennedy]

That's exactly what I must attempt, in order to achieve "perfection", to attain "nirvana", I must create an nPrestige Pro 6.1.

Dark nights lie ahead my friends, dark dark nights. :twisted:

I will say a prayer for you. I suspect the secret lies in Wilson shaped pallets and perhaps a little lead in the throat to mimic the 6.1 chunkyness...

 

[Fed Kennedy]

Official review:

Lovitz setup (APDGT) playtested in 85 degree temps, humidity unknown.

The racquet felt like a tin can and looked like a chick stick, I was full of shame but I remembered Gavin Rossdale goats this and Roger doesn't get mad, plus world #1 Rafa, whose executioner volleys are starting to look really good.

The grommets make a noise like you are opening a beer everytime you hit a shot, once you get used to this it's ok. Takes about 20 min. Once you understand that weird tape delay feel, it actually has touch. I was trying to remember how well I played with the pure drive awhile back (plus I love the pstgt) and after I adjusted the shots started to flow.

Serves were a 10 out of ten. It's just easier. Boom. Easy holds.

Forehand was like a 6/10. I could shape it really well but I will need some more time to deal with it. No pierce on my ball. Felt like I had no control on drives.

Backhand (1hbh): Sick cc loopers. DTL drive was too puffy/fluffy. 6.5/10

Volleys: 8/10. Surprised me. Stick has good feel at the net. Gotta cut the bh extra hard though. Chop-style.

Returns: 9/10. Important category. Bludgeoned a few of these. Appreciate the racquets free power on this shot.

Intangibles: 10/10. Despite not liking the feel of this stick, I held serve very easily with it and pulled off some nutball slices, droppers and chip/charges that left me feeling positive about it. An intriguing demo and a fun one, which is the main reason I play.

I have it for a few days more, will continue exploring.

 

[Ross K]

Fed,

I'm loving your 'official review', especially this line:

The grommets make a noise like you are opening a beer everytime you hit a shot

:LMAO! And I so agree re the net performance/feel, return wallop, and serve poppy ease... oh, and I know what you mean re this:

The racquet felt like a tin can and looked like a chick stick,

:roll:



All,

An enlightening, embarrassing, sobering and even painful experience getting destroyed by a US 5.0 level player this morning (Justin, a TT member BTW who is in London for the summer)... after not very long, I could hardly hit my normal shots and this imposter who had my appearance turned up... my PPs felt HEAVY and slow (heavy with that lead at the tip)... I was hitting horribly long the whole time (should I be stringing tighter?)... my footwork was shocking... my 'display' was shocking... memo to self: "do refrain from playing really good players in future - it will only depress you!" :evil:

I'm going over some thoughts in my mind though weight/modding, tensions on my string-jobs, and a few other things...


R

 

[Power Player]

FedK I agree with you on the PD. I could not get enough weight on my shots with it in stock form, but the serves were awesome.

If you want bliss..the Pure Drive roddick...take it for a spin.

 

[JGads]

Fed: sweet review.

Ross: don't sweat it. This should be the only time an American man beats a Brit on the tennis court in the next week and a half.

All: have the Plats lined up for several matches over the next week, including a league bout on Saturday. The all-around 94 vs the comically serve-bombing 99. Should be fun.

 

[el sergento]

I'm going over some thoughts in my mind though weight/modding, tensions on my string-jobs, and a few other things...


R

Funny thing Ross, I removed all the lead from my PPro after losing a tight one against an old college teammate. He's 6'4 and pulverizes the ball. I found myself hitting late and loosing too much RHS in tight situations.

After removing the lead, I compensated for slight loss of power by stringing lower and using a powerful multi as a cross string. Now I'm actually hitting bigger than when I had the extra weight in the hoop.

Try moving that weight to 3&9. You'll get more stability but won't take the big SW hit lead in the hoop produces.

I have a feeling the retail PPro is more powerful than the TGK, its stiffer and lighter thus allowing for a faster swing.

Anyway, playing a solid player is never a waste of time, nothing else helps you identify both your strengths and weaknesses with such clarity.

 

[Ross K]

Funny thing Ross, I removed all the lead from my PPro after losing a tight one against an old college teammate. He's 6'4 and pulverizes the ball. I found myself hitting late and loosing too much RHS in tight situations.

After removing the lead, I compensated for slight loss of power by stringing lower and using a powerful multi as a cross string. Now I'm actually hitting bigger than when I had the extra weight in the hoop.

Try moving that weight to 3&9. You'll get more stability but won't take the big SW hit lead in the hoop produces.

I have a feeling the retail PPro is more powerful than the TGK, its stiffer and lighter thus allowing for a faster swing.

Anyway, playing a solid player is never a waste of time, nothing else helps you identify both your strengths and weaknesses with such clarity.

Cheers el.

I've already now taken the retail down to just 2g @ 12... like your stringing advice, specially as I really want to check the hybrid situation... re lead/locations, hmm, not sure, though the one thing I do get with 4g @ 12 is more 'hurt' on the ball - TBH I find the frame a tad demanding in this regard when totally unleaded so, yep, a trade off between pop and maneuverability, for sure...

BTW, re your query yesterday, I am trying to locate full details re TGK specs and will pass them on once I have them.


Everyone,

TBH though, today, afterwards, I was really thinking maybe I should be looking at something a bit lighter, bit bigger head-size and more forgiving, but with excellent control and oomph.

A little bit of a left-field QSN here then but what are your points of view re Prince frames? I'm thinking Exo Tour 100, Exo Black 100, the old Ozone Tour, Speedport type frames, etc.

A few years back now I hit for a while with the Speedport Pro White, a frame I'd describe as playing a bit like a PD but with better feel, control, build, etc. And today, for various reasons, I found myself thinking of this particular racket, and wondering about other Prince offerings (especially the Exo Tour 100.)

Any thoughts appreciated.


R

 

[Power Player]

I personally don't think any lead is needed on a prestige pro. Of course I was hitting with a lot of 4.5 level players and some 5.0s and I needed to keep things around 12 ozs max.

You should be able to punish the ball if you have good footwork and technique. That is what gets you the best results with a prestige. I usually made my mids a little lighter at around 11.9 and they hit super heavy.

ross you can't give up on the racquet just because you get wrecked by a far better player. It wouldnt matter what you use. Seems like everytime you don't play well you switch sticks. It's not the stick. I'd stay with the PP to be honest. It's awesome and has that feel you like. You will get better and better and learn more about your game. You can be a great player with the prestige pro if you focus on the techniques.

Now that being said if you just want to try out a ton of sticks, by all means do it, but it seems like you are getting bummed out when you lose.

 

[JGads]

Ross, the EXO 100s are fun, very fun, but you probably wouldn't like the soft feel of them. Basing that on your love of the APD, TFight, Prestige -- all of which are crisper in feel. The stiffness from those frames also make them much better at the hard flat serves, which is something I could never master with the EXO 100.

But your loss against a 5.0 guy sounds like much more of a player thing than a racquet thing. I think you're better off just sticking with the APD or the Prestige rather than venturing into Prince territory.

 

[Fed Kennedy]

Ross the Prince black is a PD esque stick with its own weird grommet noise. But it has less vibration. Great serving stick. The 03 white is a plush stick. Beware the ports. I like them but it's not for everyone. Huge spin from this frame. Also very comfortable. The tours are too spongy. I bet the prostocks are like 65 flex.

There is something about tweeners that can let you scratch it out a little better against better players. If I was playing the usual 4.0 fetcher, I'd much rather have my Fed stick because I know I can boss every point.

But...against the younger big serving dudes who hit big and in higher level dubs, I feel I can get to a higher standard of play with the extreme/bab style stick. Serves, returns, forgiveness. Just gotta win those points man, ha ha.

It's fun both ways, I kind of like playing with a better class of player, it focuses the intensity a little more and I feel I'm improving. Maybe lose and lose big but learn more.

I like my Fed sticks but I'm kind of feeling my tweeners too. It's such a hard call. One day I'll find that peaceful place...

 

[Alzer]

When I first got my TGK PPs I removed 15grams of lead from under the CAPs from about the 10 to 2 position as I felt it was too unweildy. Slowly but surely I've got the 15grams back at the same position (someone at head knows what works) and added 6grams to the butt. All this plus the standard silicone in the handle my sticks weigh in at 352grams and still head light.

I can honestly say that its made the world of difference. I can control my swing better, my shots just seem to find the court on far more frequent basis. Every ball is heavy, blocking shots is simple, no big swipes at the ball required.

What got me back to trying a heavier setup was that I picked up my Prostaff Classic 6.1 from almost 20 years ago. I was 16 then and able to swing that thing without a problem. I played with the fairway grip and a tourna overgrip, approx 357 grams. Not once did I think it was too heavy back then - I'm not a big guy by any means, but I'm bigger than I was at 16!!!!

 

[Fed Kennedy]

What got me back to trying a heavier setup was that I picked up my Prostaff Classic 6.1

you are not alone. the fusion of Head and Wilson is powerful and potent.

 

[PED]

Official review:



Forehand was like a 6/10. I could shape it really well but I will need some more time to deal with it. No pierce on my ball. Felt like I had no control on drives.

Throw some lead in the butt and under the bumper and this shot is transformed. I had a big problem switching to this stick last summer from the ytpp: my FH was gutless.

The weight makes all the difference. I'm at stock balance 33cm with 10g added: I'm 333g strung and it's just about perfect.

I'm still toying with the idea of doing the same thing to a pdgt std length. I liked my pdr but my shoulder didn't :twisted:

The pd is bit more flexy than the A rod version, now I just need to find a used one in a 1/4 grip

 

[Power Player]

I agree with Fed. I think that is what got me to the point I am at now. The PSTGT is kind of the same as well. It is a player stick that lets you manhandle pushers with accuracy, but also has tweener power that lets you hit with the higher level guys.

The donnay is actually easier for me to use than the pstgt. Before I got hurt I beat an ex dII guy with a nasty 1hander. It was not that I beat him, but more that I beat him with patient and consistent strokes. Of course I went big now and then, but with the Donnay I find myself in longer and longer rallies than before. And this also applies to the 3.5-4.0 guy who is trying to wait out the storm and watch me mess up.

 

[Ross K]

Fed,

This chimes with me, especially after yesterday's trauma!

There is something about tweeners that can let you scratch it out a little better against better players. If I was playing the usual 4.0 fetcher, I'd much rather have my Fed stick because I know I can boss every point.

But...against the younger big serving dudes who hit big and in higher level dubs, I feel I can get to a higher standard of play with the extreme/bab style stick. Serves, returns, forgiveness. Just gotta win those points man, ha ha.

Also, thx for Prince low-down.


Alzer,

Cheers re this:

When I first got my TGK PPs I removed 15grams of lead from under the CAPs from about the 10 to 2 position as I felt it was too unweildy. Slowly but surely I've got the 15grams back at the same position (someone at head knows what works) and added 6grams to the butt. All this plus the standard silicone in the handle my sticks weigh in at 352grams and still head light.

I do think I need to lose some lead off my tip/12 o'clock... need to order some new caps now.


All,

Obviously a bit of an over-reaction from me yesterday, but, yes, nothing like a total humiliating drubbing to suddenly make you think about bigger head-sizes > lighter and more maneuverable frames > high-end tweenerish > Prince rackets (which aside from the Reb I kind of know zero about) etc. :roll:


R

 

[JGads]

Prince racquets always give me the feeling that they're good, but not stellar. I know I'll always have my eye out for something better. And the open ports are an acquired taste: it does in fact open up the sweet spot quite a bit, but definitely at the expense of feel.

In other news, Plat 99 officially eliminated. If I'm entering a serving contest, though, it would be the first racquet I'd reach for. Just far more in tune with the 94, by comparison.

 

[Meaghan]

Prince racquets always give me the feeling that they're good, but not stellar. I know I'll always have my eye out for something better. And the open ports are an acquired taste: it does in fact open up the sweet spot quite a bit, but definitely at the expense of feel.

In other news, Plat 99 officially eliminated. If I'm entering a serving contest, though, it would be the first racquet I'd reach for. Just far more in tune with the 94, by comparison.

JG get a set of gosen polymaster in the bc20/plat94 and let me know what you think. Its worked wonders for me.

 

[JGads]

JG get a set of gosen polymaster in the bc20/plat94 and let me know what you think. Its worked wonders for me.

Noted! You already steered me right with Tour Bite, so I'll follow suit soon. Prince OSG is awesome in the 20, just LOVE how it feels, but the movement is definitely a little bothersome.

 

[Ross K]

Okay. I've been down. As a paraplegic marine dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission, I've been dealt some heavy blows (especially yesterday's massacre.) But I played straight away again this morning, and late this afternoon I had a long practice session. The lead has all come off. I've been getting to know the Pres Pro stock and unmodified. I'm trying to close my mind to thoughts of other frames. I need to tap into the source of the magic. I need to connect with the frame. I need to wield it with abandon. Like a Na'Vi warrior. Like Power Player. Or PED. Or the one they call Fed. And the one known as Gads. You know, I dream of running, running and bounding and leaping with this frame. I admit that I am becoming increasingly torn between following my racketaholic ways and embracing the natural order and following what my beloved PP is whispering into my ears. Time to return to my PP and Neytiri who clutches her thus.

:roll:

R

 

[ryushen21]

This......this feels like a tennis racquet should. The mods are done on the Platinums. The leather feels good in my hand and much more uniform than the stock Donnay grip. The actual lead on the frame adds just enough in the head to give me the swing that I like. The Tornado just looks sick. Tomorrow shall be my first real hitting session but these are definitely Excalibur like just holding them.....

 

[Power Player]

Ross..godlike post. I admire your conviction.

Ryushen, I wish I could use leather still. Just can't do it, due to the hand/wrist thing. I know it was on the Donnay Black and it felt awesome.

 

[JGads]

Ross, you're a poet. Another golden post.

Ry, got the Ace in the mail today -- the Tornado set and the fresh grip is very much appreciated, and I can see how Tornado will look absolutely sick inside of the Platinum frame. Will give that a go next week, following my match with the Platty tomorrow. Could you imagine that string in the Platinum.. with that Solinco dry overgrip that I've seen (but have no idea how to get)??

The one in this thread:
http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=370945&page=15

Salivation.

Played a quick two sets today to get tuned up for a league match tomorrow. Split the first set duties between the BC20 and the Ace Mid and then went with the Plat for the entire second set to get fully prepped for tomorrow. All three of these frames are so positively goaty in their own ways, I feel lucky to own each of them.

Then I came home to two racquet boxes: one with the Ace I'd lent out and the other with the Blue 99 I traded for. That'll be yet another interesting wild card of a frame to throw into the mix next week. (I'm on a bit of a racquetholic bender at the moment)

PP, how's the wrist? You hit yet? Pulling for you, bro. And I'll probably be putting the Ace 98 up for sale at the start of next week so email me if interested, otherwise I'll assume you're good.

To all a happy hitting weekend....

 

[ryushen21]

JGads...thanks again for the loan. It was great to get hit with the Ace. In the end, I definitely wouldn't mind snagging one in a larger grip size to play around with some more. But the Donnay is so good for me right now.

I'm very curious to hear what your thoughts are on the Blue. I was curious about that one myself (the 94 version) but IIRC the string pattern wasn't 18x20 which I am entirely neurotic about.

Regardless, looking forward to the review.

Ross....stick with the PPros. I have a good feeling about this.

 

[Ross K]

el sergento,

Re TGK specs query:

I've done some digging around because I've been a bit in the dark myself TBH.

Well, all I can really say is... and this is from other peoples experiences too... they are weighted from 249-253, with a balance around 379 mm, but thats the hair pin without lead and sillicone. I think its without the grommets and pallets too. A few others have affirmed they got theirs with the same specs as retail and yet it swings different, a slightly heavier SW. One thing I certainly agree on is the flex seems a bit softer on the TGK than retail PP - one TT member had his on an RDC machine and it said 63 RA (retail of course being in the 66 RA region.)

Re my TGK PP, I intend to remove the lead. Yesterday I ended up taking off all the lead on my retail PP @ 12 and I enjoyed spending a day with it really grooving and working my stroking my strokes. Two days ago, I got annihilated by an excellent player and among the lessons I took from my thrashing was I'm simply playing these frames with too much lead on the tip. So, I've had it with a static weight of 344g and a balance of 32.3cm (this does include overgrip and strung with poly) for months. My retail was at a very similar weight/balance minus a gram or 2 less @ 12. However, I think because the starting point for the frames are very different even though the static weight and swing weight are pretty similar, the weight distribution is a bit different. Furthermore, the silicone in the handle makes it feel different. More muted. The layup is different. The stringbed somehow feels/performs more uniformly. Etc. So, I don't know... could you say only the mould is the same?

Annnnyhow, as I said, I'm now looking at no lead on the retail PP and I intend to do similar with the TGK. I may add it back in future, but we'll see. I learnt this week that despite the additional 'hurt' you can get with lead @ 12, for me, it's simply not worth the extra weight. Trust me, against this 5 level player, I was made to feel every gram.:wink:

Sorry if some of that's that slightly confusing, el (I'm not a natural when it comes to specs geekery), and there does seem to be some conflicting opinions and indeed a general lack of definite checkable facts or data re these TGKs.

R

 

[Power Player]

I saw Mikeler switched to a racquet that is easier on his joints. The PK Kinetic Pro 7g.

Thing is supposed to be great on your arm and hits big. Anybody ever use it here?

 

[ryushen21]

I think that the Platinum 94 may in fact be the GROAT.

This morning was just too good. All the swing characteristics were there but it just felt so much better having the leather grip gave me a better feel in my hand. I was really gripping and ripping today. It was also nice not having to worry about the weight strips moving having been replaced by lead. It actually covered the same amount of head space so there wasn't any kind of sluggishness.

The Tornado had a perfect response now that it is strung even across the whole bed. The added tightness gives a it more control but is still very nice on the arm.

This maybe the best setup I have ever played.

 

[JGads]

I saw Mikeler switched to a racquet that is easier on his joints. The PK Kinetic Pro 7g.

Thing is supposed to be great on your arm and hits big. Anybody ever use it here?

I tried it once and loved it. Huge serves and two-handed backhands, fantastic feel. Got jammed a bit on the forehand with the extra length, though; I always wondered if it could be something I'd get used to and corral, but never had it in me to go for that long test to find out. Hits very solid, driving balls through the court.

Because the 7G felt so great and hit a very solid ball (racquet is stiff while being very comfy and you feel very connected to the ball), I've always wanted to try the standard length 5G but the only way to do so is to buy.

So yeah, one of the better options out there, in my opinion, even if it's very under the radar. Same story for just about all of Pro Kennex, I guess.

Oh, and the 'beads' within the frame that rattle around - a little weird and annoying when casually wielding the frame, but I don't remember being bothered by it during play. On the plus side, you can join a Mariachi band and use the racquet instead of maracas.

 

[JGads]

I think that the Platinum 94 may in fact be the GROAT.

This morning was just too good. All the swing characteristics were there but it just felt so much better having the leather grip gave me a better feel in my hand. I was really gripping and ripping today. It was also nice not having to worry about the weight strips moving having been replaced by lead. It actually covered the same amount of head space so there wasn't any kind of sluggishness.

The Tornado had a perfect response now that it is strung even across the whole bed. The added tightness gives a it more control but is still very nice on the arm.

This maybe the best setup I have ever played.

So, Tornado at 52, full bed? Will drop off my 94 later today or tomorrow for the Tornado treatment.

 

[Alzer]

el sergento,
Trust me, against this 5 level player, I was made to feel every gram.:wink:
R

Trust me, I know exactly what you mean. When playing better players I always feel like I'm late on the ball, and I, like you, thought I have to remove the lead so I can get my racket there quicker. And I did. Then I go back to playing the "normal" bunch and I find that I cant get that pace and 'put away' plow on the ball and so the lead goes back on.

Now I've been using the 15grams at 12 and 6 on the butt cap I know I have to prepare better, be quick and generally concentrate more. All these things are essential to good tennis - and right now I'm playing pretty good.

I found the TGK without lead more demanding too, had to take big swipes at the ball.

 

[ryushen21]

JGads...52 seems to be just right for me. I will say that I am still getting settled with the frame though and will eventually be lowering the tension. After some more time, I'm thinking 48 lbs. should be about perfect.

 

[Fed Kennedy]

I had a great week with some babs out here. Seriously considering going that route...The only thing is that my groundies are garbage. But my serves and volleys are super good. APD slice and approach is out of this world.

I tried the PDR standard and the APDGT (aka the Lovitz).
I like the APD better around the court but the PDR serving is sort of incredible. I could pop my first serve flat out wide with crazy consistency. Again though my groundies were just awful. I play a lot of doubles though so it's doesn't show as much.

I must contemplate this further.

 

[Power Player]

I tried it once and loved it. Huge serves and two-handed backhands, fantastic feel. Got jammed a bit on the forehand with the extra length, though; I always wondered if it could be something I'd get used to and corral, but never had it in me to go for that long test to find out. Hits very solid, driving balls through the court.

Because the 7G felt so great and hit a very solid ball (racquet is stiff while being very comfy and you feel very connected to the ball), I've always wanted to try the standard length 5G but the only way to do so is to buy.

So yeah, one of the better options out there, in my opinion, even if it's very under the radar. Same story for just about all of Pro Kennex, I guess.

Oh, and the 'beads' within the frame that rattle around - a little weird and annoying when casually wielding the frame, but I don't remember being bothered by it during play. On the plus side, you can join a Mariachi band and use the racquet instead of maracas.

hahaha..thats awesome. Just need to know some good PK options in case I get more wrist flair up. I havent been able to play yet due to weather.

I know Mikeler plays a ton of tennis, and has good tatse in sticks, so I was interested when I saw his post. It sucks when you get hurt, you start thinking different about racquets..strings..etc.

 

[JGads]

hahaha..thats awesome. Just need to know some good PK options in case I get more wrist flair up. I havent been able to play yet due to weather.

I know Mikeler plays a ton of tennis, and has good tatse in sticks, so I was interested when I saw his post. It sucks when you get hurt, you start thinking different about racquets..strings..etc.

Yeah, to be frank, may have liked the 7G more than the Ace 98, but it's been so long. To me the Ace Mid is still on the top level, though, as far as PK goes. But the 7G could easily be a frame I revisit someday, and if I ever got offered that or a 5G in a trade, I'd probably bite to experiment. The feel was fantastic.

But good news is, I've personally had no flare ups with elbow or anything else from playing with the Plat 94, so to me, at least so far, it seems like a safe stick in spite of some of those scary findings from some others.

 

[Ross K]

Gentlemen,

I, too, have only ever heard highly positive comments re the PK Kinnetic Pro 7G and that series.

Tornado eh?... do post up your thoughts on this. I liked it a lot previously but was a bit underwhelmed when I tried it again in my Pres Pro last week. It was a tad stiffer than I recalled it being, though maybe that's the frame? I don't know, it was good, but, I don't know, unyielding somehow. Like a few woman I used to know:twisted:... Do post your views on this string though... and btw, I'm looking again at the similarish Hyperion in my PP as I really liked this string previously. Am I going to be underwhelmed again, I wonder?


Fed,

Wait until you get what many perceive to be the greatest thing about the APD sorted out, in other words, your groundstrokes! You'll be in business then for sure. Have you gone down the lead route yet? I actually always found the APDs devilishly hard to mod just right. That said, I'd ended up with 6g in butt and about 3g @ 12 a month or so ago and that kind of felt just about right with full poly strung low.


Alzer,

Trust me, I know exactly what you mean. When playing better players I always feel like I'm late on the ball, and I, like you, thought I have to remove the lead so I can get my racket there quicker. And I did. Then I go back to playing the "normal" bunch and I find that I cant get that pace and 'put away' plow on the ball and so the lead goes back on.

Now I've been using the 15grams at 12 and 6 on the butt cap I know I have to prepare better, be quick and generally concentrate more. All these things are essential to good tennis - and right now I'm playing pretty good.

I found the TGK without lead more demanding too, had to take big swipes at the ball.

Ha, exactly! It seems we have had the same thoughts and experiences here... although I presently cannot imagine 15g @ 12!:shock: I've found 4g too much - LOL! Anyhow, that aside, it does have such a superb solidness, and thumping, clean way of hitting and speed in coming through the ball (minus too much lead @ 12), I suppose you just have to, as George Michael used to be prone to exclaiming prior to nodding out drugged out of his mind behind the wheel of a car - have faith!


R