Diary of a Racketaholic

[Fed Kennedy]

I briefly huffed several different strains of Graphene over the past few days:

Speed Pro
Extreme Pro
Speed MPA
Prestige MP

and the one that I liked best was the Speed XT MPA with 16x19.

I can definitely see myself attaining new uncharted levels of middle aged puffy balding Federer dreaming with this stick.

 

[sma1001]

I briefly huffed several different strains of Graphene over the past few days:

Speed Pro
Extreme Pro
Speed MPA
Prestige MP

and the one that I liked best was the Speed XT MPA with 16x19.

I can definitely see myself attaining new uncharted levels of middle aged puffy balding Federer dreaming with this stick.

Care to elaborate? Lots of love here for the Prestige MP. Why the Speed MPA?

 

[JGads]

Care to elaborate? Lots of love here for the Prestige MP. Why the Speed MPA?

+1

Life is so much better with Trader Joe FedKennedy in this mix. Welcome back.

 

[Power Player]

Footwork is my biggest problem. I imagine that's not uncommon. I need to get in better shape.

This is why I went full on into crossfit this year. My tennis has suffered in terms of not really being able to bring much energy for match play while I ramp up my fitness, but I don't even care. I see the results happening quickly. I could very likely suck at tennis for a while, but it's worth it. Getting in this kind of shape is just a game changer and I 'd suggest it to anyone serious about their game.

Best to start in your off season, and not your first season like I did. But I already see huge benefits. Tennis is just not going to cut it as a way to truly get in shape.

 

[Power Player]

Care to elaborate? Lots of love here for the Prestige MP. Why the Speed MPA?

Fed K is a true punk rocker holic. This is a guy who embraces a 93 Yonex and then craves an Extreme.

In all honesty, it would be against his nature to want a Prestige MP after we have mainstreamed the frame. That would be like him telling us how great Pearl Jam is in '94 after we talked about Evenflow for 3 months - It's not going to happen.

FedK is the guy at the record store digging up a Kurt Vile record 5 years ago and thumbing his nose at people who like him now.

 

[el sergento]

Gads, what are the Tfights strung with and at what tension?

Also, can you confirm that this sticker is for strung specs: Weight / Balance / SW?.

Thanks brother.

The sticks are gorgeous btw. So much so that I went against my physio's rec and booked a court this friday.

 

[el sergento]

Fed K is a true punk rocker holic. This is a guy who embraces a 93 Yonex and then craves an Extreme.

In all honesty, it would be against his nature to want a Prestige MP after we have mainstreamed the frame. That would be like him telling us how great Pearl Jam is in '94 after we talked about Evenflow for 3 months - It's not going to happen.

FedK is the guy at the record store digging up a Kurt Vile record 5 years ago and thumbing his nose at people who like him now.

FedK obsessing over his wax:

 

[Fed Kennedy]

Care to elaborate? Lots of love here for the Prestige MP. Why the Speed MPA?

The 18x20 string pattern is like that cubbyhole apartment I had in the East Village.

Fond memories, but even if I wanted to go back, I couldn't.

For the aging hipster, 16x19.

 

[purple-n-gold]

Dang Klementine 10lbs...did you hand pull it?

 

[klementine]

^ Ha! Might as well have.

As of last year, I've upgraded to the gamma 602 drop-weight, which has a tension range capable of stringing that low. My previous stringer, klippermate, could not.

I haven't gone out for a second session at 10lbs., but I think I want to move up to 30lbs., maybe order some Kevlar or some super stiff kirscbaum.

Read an article a while back that mentioned Johnny Mac had experimented with low tensions as well, even won some tournaments with that rig, although I can't recall if he dropped below 30lbs., probably not ideal with a full gut bed.

I don't know if anyone's ever snapped a main and decided to play a couple of points for kicks, but 10lbs. is reminiscent of such a feel, only a tad more responsive.

I am also happy to report no significant tension loss so far....

 

[Fuji]

^ Ha! Might as well have.

As of last year, I've upgraded to the gamma 602 drop-weight, which has a tension range capable of stringing that low. My previous stringer, klippermate, could not.

I haven't gone out for a second session at 10lbs., but I think I want to move up to 30lbs., maybe order some Kevlar or some super stiff kirscbaum.

Read an article a while back that mentioned Johnny Mac had experimented with low tensions as well, even won some tournaments with that rig, although I can't recall if he dropped below 30lbs., probably not ideal with a full gut bed.

I don't know if anyone's ever snapped a main and decided to play a couple of points for kicks, but 10lbs. is reminiscent of such a feel, only a tad more responsive.

I am also happy to report no significant tension loss so far....

I have a Max200G strung up with a soft 17g multi @ 30lbs. It's butter and a blast to hit with.

-Fuji

 

[klementine]

'Fun' is the perfect adjective. It'd be nice to have at least one frame dedicated to low-low tensions.

I got absolutely annihilated at a league match by a guy wielding a PD at really low tensions. Sure he made his fair share of UE's, but there was no chance of breaking his serve. Then add the UE's on my serve game, and well. I asked if we could hit around for the remainder of the hour and asked if I could hit some with his frame, using the excuse, 'I've never hit with a pure drive'. Really just wanted to confirm his tension, cause I could hear a noticeable difference when he struck. Another strange attribute, I couldn't tell when he was putting mustard on his shots or when he was conservative, really confusing because all the shots have the same pitch, range and volume.

Which is why I went back and read Chris' blog on super low tensions. If you can line 'em up, they're clean winners. I really think that 18x20 patterns and a stiffer frame would benefit the most out super low tensions, that or mids.

 

[mad dog1]

Gads, what are the Tfights strung with and at what tension?

Also, can you confirm that this sticker is for strung specs: Weight / Balance / SW?

hola serge, i believe i strung those sticks so according to my log, i strung one @ 48/49 and the other at 44/45 in Aug 2013. both were laced w/ Tour Bite 16L.

yes, the specs on the sticker represent static weight/balance/swingweight unstrung.

 

[spinovic]

Regarding the Pure Drive...is there a big difference in the new model compared to the previous one? I don't care about having the newest version just because it's new. If there's little difference, I'll take the cheaper one. If the higher sweetspot makes a big difference, I might hold out for a good deal on the recent version.

 

[JackB1]

I briefly huffed several different strains of Graphene over the past few days:

Speed Pro
Extreme Pro
Speed MPA
Prestige MP

and the one that I liked best was the Speed XT MPA with 16x19.

I can definitely see myself attaining new uncharted levels of middle aged puffy balding Federer dreaming with this stick.

I'm right there with ya on the MPA. Did you add leadtape to 3/9? With the tape, it transformed the racquet completely for me.

 

[JackB1]

Regarding the Pure Drive...is there a big difference in the new model compared to the previous one? I don't care about having the newest version just because it's new. If there's little difference, I'll take the cheaper one. If the higher sweetspot makes a big difference, I might hold out for a good deal on the recent version.

take the cheaper one

 

[spinovic]

take the cheaper one

That's what I was planning. But, figured I'd check with you guys first. Thanks Jack

 

[spinovic]

Anybody have much experience with the Fairway Leather Grips?

There are three different kinds...what's the difference? Thicker? Wider?

I play with over grips, but I still prefer the feel of a racquet with leather as the original grip, so I figured I might try the Fairway on one of the new frames. It's also a good way to add a little weight to the handle.

 

[JGads]

Serge, those specs have to be unstrung, although I don't believe they're actually accurate to what it's at now because I believe when **** took down those stats (after adding the longer grip to lengthen the frame) I had lead up at 12 o'clock as well. I believe that was the case. Sorry I can't remember exactly, as it was awhile ago when I had that frame serviced.

 

[o0lunatik]

Prior to two years ago, I'd played with two Wilson BLX Tour 95 (blue, orange, & white) models. They had seen lots of mileage and played beautifully. Two years ago from this day (approx), I decided to try new racquets to find the one, and all else is history: Everything was bought in twos and played for at least three months, and here were what I've owned/sold since:

APDGT & 2014 APD, 2014 APD+ (couldn't hit my flat and finesse shots)
Pure Drive GT (framing a bit for some reason and no feel)
Prince Tour 100 16x18 (a bit too under-powered and felt pushed around)
Steam 99S (for fun)
Steam 99 (ehh so so)
Microgel Radical MP (who hasn't slept with one of these)
Pro Staff 95S 2014 (awesome when hit in sweet spot but lacked control)
X Fast Pro 100 (seem promising but missing something, even purchased a combi bag (one of the coolest bags and still using it))
PS95S 2015 (fun racquet just lacks control)
RF97 (almost perfect, just a lil too sluggish, and strained my elbow)
PS97 (rebound relationship from the lost of RF97, inconsistent string bed)

Current:
Prince Response 97 (very fast thru the air, excellent player's racquet, testing lead tape to match stability of RF97 somewhat)
Yonex AI98 (very nicely balanced racquet, testing lead tape to add more stability)

I need to settle and stick with a racquet soon, so that I can fine tune my game rather than worrying about gear.

 

[Fuji]

Regarding the Pure Drive...is there a big difference in the new model compared to the previous one? I don't care about having the newest version just because it's new. If there's little difference, I'll take the cheaper one. If the higher sweetspot makes a big difference, I might hold out for a good deal on the recent version.

I didn't like the new version. The sweetspot was funky and a bit unpredictable. The Black Drive is the best PD ever released IMO.

-Fuji

 

[klementine]

Prior to two years ago, I'd played with two Wilson BLX Tour 95 (blue, orange, & white) models. They had seen lots of mileage and played beautifully. Two years ago from this day (approx), I decided to try new racquets to find the one, and all else is history: Everything was bought in twos and played for at least three months, and here were what I've owned/sold since:

APDGT & 2014 APD, 2014 APD+ (couldn't hit my flat and finesse shots)
Pure Drive GT (framing a bit for some reason and no feel)
Prince Tour 100 16x18 (a bit too under-powered and felt pushed around)
Steam 99S (for fun)
Steam 99 (ehh so so)
Microgel Radical MP (who hasn't slept with one of these)
Pro Staff 95S 2014 (awesome when hit in sweet spot but lacked control)
X Fast Pro 100 (seem promising but missing something, even purchased a combi bag (one of the coolest bags and still using it))
PS95S 2015 (fun racquet just lacks control)
RF97 (almost perfect, just a lil too sluggish, and strained my elbow)
PS97 (rebound relationship from the lost of RF97, inconsistent string bed)

Current:
Prince Response 97 (very fast thru the air, excellent player's racquet, testing lead tape to match stability of RF97 somewhat)
Yonex AI98 (very nicely balanced racquet, testing lead tape to add more stability)

I need to settle and stick with a racquet soon, so that I can fine tune my game rather than worrying about gear.

Quite a list, and probably reflective of a fair number of folks on the forums.

It is nice to settle on just one frame, that way you can concentrate on other things, like playing and advancing, but what I've been doing lately is the following:

- A go-to racket, 2-3 frames, so you can mess with tension/strings and have duplicates incase. Thought the ezone xi98 was the one (stocked up on 3 of them!), until recent outings proved it was a bit unresponsive on touch shots and erratic when tension dropped. Sent back two fresh ones for another copy of the Pure Control Tour.

- Keep 'ol faithful around. For me, this is the MgPresMid and ExoTour100. I have spent the most time (cumulatively) with those frames, and it's always good to have them lying around for a relaxed hit. Sometimes you can discover patterns due to the fact that you're so comfortable with them, then apply those to the go-to frames.

-A big-headed tweener, stock. Again, sometimes you just need ease of swing against certain opponents (or days!) over power and spin. Mine is the IGExtreme strung with low-tension POSG.

I feel this could ultimately minimize the wandering eye for new frames. Because it always seems like the minute you settle on one frame, you find out some inconsistencies or attributes that just don't suit you. Sometimes you just need that change for a day or two to get back into a positive mindset, which is the most important factor imo.

 

[spinovic]

I'm getting something new. Just having a tough time deciding.

I was ready to buy a used Pro Staff 97 LS from TW...and somebody bought it while I was finishing my shopping. Which one of you 'holics beat me to it?

I also discovered an EXO3 Tour ESP similar to the Rebel 98 ESP from TW. Same specs as the new 100T ESP, just a lot cheaper. Making decisions has never been my strong suit.

 

[Fuji]

I'm getting something new. Just having a tough time deciding.

I was ready to buy a used Pro Staff 97 LS from TW...and somebody bought it while I was finishing my shopping. Which one of you 'holics beat me to it?

I also discovered an EXO3 Tour ESP similar to the Rebel 98 ESP from TW. Same specs as the new 100T ESP, just a lot cheaper. Making decisions has never been my strong suit.

Go cheap and holic hard!

-Fuji

 

[Fed Kennedy]

I'm right there with ya on the MPA. Did you add leadtape to 3/9? With the tape, it transformed the racquet completely for me.

My plan is to customize to 325 sw, 345 static and 9hl balance.

I feel this frame will achieve the FEDALian hybrid that we all quest for

 

[JGads]

Does the MPA have more weight at the tips of the frame like the Graphene Prestige does?

 

[Fed Kennedy]

Does the MPA have more weight at the tips of the frame like the Graphene Prestige does?

Maybe. it has that styrofoam feel when you hit hard. is that graphene?

but it also swings super easy. overall, i feel it is too light, but I enjoyed the way I could get on the edge of the ball and carve my shots. good feel at net. not too heavy for the pusher grinder status seeker battles. based on my V1 classic tail weighting adventures, I feel I can bring this frame up to par with minimal lead in the head.

For me, too much lead in the hoop equals rabbit hole of second guessing and destruction.

 

[SpinToWin]

Quite a list, and probably reflective of a fair number of folks on the forums.

It is nice to settle on just one frame, that way you can concentrate on other things, like playing and advancing, but what I've been doing lately is the following:

- A go-to racket, 2-3 frames, so you can mess with tension/strings and have duplicates incase. Thought the ezone xi98 was the one (stocked up on 3 of them!), until recent outings proved it was a bit unresponsive on touch shots and erratic when tension dropped. Sent back two fresh ones for another copy of the Pure Control Tour.

- Keep 'ol faithful around. For me, this is the MgPresMid and ExoTour100. I have spent the most time (cumulatively) with those frames, and it's always good to have them lying around for a relaxed hit. Sometimes you can discover patterns due to the fact that you're so comfortable with them, then apply those to the go-to frames.

-A big-headed tweener, stock. Again, sometimes you just need ease of swing against certain opponents (or days!) over power and spin. Mine is the IGExtreme strung with low-tension POSG.

I feel this could ultimately minimize the wandering eye for new frames. Because it always seems like the minute you settle on one frame, you find out some inconsistencies or attributes that just don't suit you. Sometimes you just need that change for a day or two to get back into a positive mindset, which is the most important factor imo.

Interesting...

I have my Pro Staffs (85/90/95) and then I have a Pure Storm Team GT which I guess acts like my tweener for really bad days now that I think of it.

 

[JackB1]

My plan is to customize to 325 sw, 345 static and 9hl balance.

I feel this frame will achieve the FEDALian hybrid that we all quest for

One of mine is exactly 325 sw and all it took was a swapping of the grip to a Shockshield and 3 grams (total) added at 3/9.
My other came in a little lighter (and 2 pts more headlite) so it needed the grip swap plus 4 grams (total) at 3/9 and 1 gram at 12".

But if you want yours to be that headlite, you would probably need to add about 10 grams to the butt end of the handle and go from
there equally adding weight to both ends.

 

[JackB1]

Does the MPA have more weight at the tips of the frame like the Graphene Prestige does?

Yes, it does feel polarized to me. It really shines when you swing away, but works well for me on medium swings too.

 

[Power Player]

Watched Ferrer last night. Still think he is the ultimate model for Rec tennis greatness. No one better. That dude did not miss until the very end. Imagine playing a guy like that.

 

[JackB1]

Watched Ferrer last night. Still think he is the ultimate model for Rec tennis greatness. No one better. That dude did not miss until the very end. Imagine playing a guy like that.

Agree 100%. He is the ultimate model for consistent hitting and consistent
footwork. Also for shot selection. I'm sure noone likes playing him.

 

[spinovic]

Watched Ferrer last night. Still think he is the ultimate model for Rec tennis greatness. No one better. That dude did not miss until the very end. Imagine playing a guy like that.

He was spent by the end. How impressive is Djokovic to wear down an Energizer Bunny like Ferrer in two sets?

Darren Cahill, I believe, said he thought Ferrer had the most accurate FH on tour. Hard to disagree. He rarely misses long or wide with it, and places it well.

 

[mikeler]

Ferrer is my SGOAT where S stands for "short".

 

[JGads]

Maybe. it has that styrofoam feel when you hit hard. is that graphene?

but it also swings super easy. overall, i feel it is too light, but I enjoyed the way I could get on the edge of the ball and carve my shots. good feel at net. not too heavy for the pusher grinder status seeker battles. based on my V1 classic tail weighting adventures, I feel I can bring this frame up to par with minimal lead in the head.

For me, too much lead in the hoop equals rabbit hole of second guessing and destruction.

Definitely agree there. Much easier to add weight to handle and throat instead of overdoing the hoop. Lead rabbit holes of thinking are a danger.

Worthy holic undertaking with the Speed. Good luck, brave warrior.

 

[JGads]

Watched Ferrer last night. Still think he is the ultimate model for Rec tennis greatness. No one better. That dude did not miss until the very end. Imagine playing a guy like that.

So consistent but he just never has a shot against the big boys. Last night a buddy and I were flipping between that and an nba game and even at 5-5 in the first set I said, 'we don't have to watch this. Ferrer will never beat Novak.' And sure enough, he just can't cross the finish line against an elite guy. All credit to maximizing what he's got. A full career of doing so.

 

[Power Player]

He was spent by the end. How impressive is Djokovic to wear down an Energizer Bunny like Ferrer in two sets?

Darren Cahill, I believe, said he thought Ferrer had the most accurate FH on tour. Hard to disagree. He rarely misses long or wide with it, and places it well.

Yep and thats really all it takes to win at the higher club levels.

 

[el sergento]

Guys remember Johanson? He was a short dude but had a monster serve that won him a slam.

If Ferrer had a bigger first serve it would have been the big 5 and not the big 4. Almagro can't be much taller, and he has a much bigger serve as well.

If Ferrer could hold serve in under a minute from time to time, a la Roger, he'd definitely have more scalps against the big boys.

 

[spinovic]

Yep and thats really all it takes to win at the higher club levels.

That's no small feat though.

I think Ferrer's power is underrated, probably because he lacks enough to hurt the Big 4. But, he can hurt most of the rest of the field with it...guys that don't move quite so well. There are a few, like Nishikori, who can really trouble him because of their movement, but not many.

 

[mxblink]

Current:
Prince Response 97 (very fast thru the air, excellent player's racquet, testing lead tape to match stability of RF97 somewhat)
Yonex AI98 (very nicely balanced racquet, testing lead tape to add more stability)

Can't speak to the Prince Response, but I've put 4 grams of lead at 3&9 on the Ai98 and think it plays much better. Compared to stock, it feels significantly more solid/stable, plusher, and has flattened my shots out just a bit (I was hitting a little loopier than I'd like with the stock racquet). I also like how the added hoop weight causes the racquet head to lag behind my hand a little more on the FH, though that's probably just personal preference.

I'm coming from my final attempt to master the RF97 (oh well), and while the Ai98 probably won't ever match the stability of that stick without an exorbitant amount of extra weight, I've found that my mods have given me enough stability for my game in a much more manageable racquet.

 

[Soundbyte]

Prior to two years ago, I'd played with two Wilson BLX Tour 95 (blue, orange, & white) models. They had seen lots of mileage and played beautifully. Two years ago from this day (approx), I decided to try new racquets to find the one, and all else is history: Everything was bought in twos and played for at least three months, and here were what I've owned/sold since:

APDGT & 2014 APD, 2014 APD+ (couldn't hit my flat and finesse shots)
Pure Drive GT (framing a bit for some reason and no feel)
Prince Tour 100 16x18 (a bit too under-powered and felt pushed around)
Steam 99S (for fun)
Steam 99 (ehh so so)
Microgel Radical MP (who hasn't slept with one of these)
Pro Staff 95S 2014 (awesome when hit in sweet spot but lacked control)
X Fast Pro 100 (seem promising but missing something, even purchased a combi bag (one of the coolest bags and still using it))
PS95S 2015 (fun racquet just lacks control)
RF97 (almost perfect, just a lil too sluggish, and strained my elbow)
PS97 (rebound relationship from the lost of RF97, inconsistent string bed)

Current:
Prince Response 97 (very fast thru the air, excellent player's racquet, testing lead tape to match stability of RF97 somewhat)
Yonex AI98 (very nicely balanced racquet, testing lead tape to add more stability)

I need to settle and stick with a racquet soon, so that I can fine tune my game rather than worrying about gear.

Just saw this post. I'd love to chime in as I was in the same boat. Over the past year, I've used WAY TOO many rackets including:

1. Prostaff 95
2. Blade 98
3. Blade 93
4. PS97
5. RF97
6. Steam 99S
7. PS90
8. Redondo 93
9. Ki5 PSE
10. MW 200G
11. YT Speed Pro
12. IG Prestige Mid
13. Prince POG OS
14. Prince POG 100
15. Prince POG 100
16. Yonex Tour G 330
17. Yonex Tour G 310
18. AI 98
19. Tecnifibre 315 Ltd
20. X Force Pro
21. X Force Pro 18x20
22. Pacific Vacuum 90
23. Volkl C10 Pro
24. Babolats: PDR+
25. APD+
26. Pure Strike
27. Pure Control
28. Pure Strike Tour
29. Pure Control Tour
30. Pure Control 95+

I've just repurchased the Babolat Pure Control 95+ and received 2 Prince Response 97 in a trade...havent had a chance to hit with them.
Bit of background: I'm a 4.5 left player (formerly ran one of the largest college club tennis programs in the US). I'm rely on my serve and left ground strokes, but love to attack and get to net to close out the point.

Out of all the rackets I've used (and I'm sure I'm missing some), my favorites were the RF97, PC95+, Tech 315 Ltd, IG Prestige Mid, MW200G, AI 98 and X Force Pros.

Of those, I think the AI98 is best all around stick for the masses. It does everythng well, but nothing spectacular. I think the X Force Pro is a close second, doing every well. It has better feel, but is slightly less powerful and more control oriented.

The PC95+ is a better serving stick than the above 2, and I consider it to be a better option for slightly more advanced players. Its heftier, better off the serve, and great touch/feel. It's also an extended length racket for those who like those frames.

The Tec 315 Ltd is a FANTASTIC platform frame. It requires modding to bring it to life though, so I think many overlook it. It reminds me of the older head prestiges. Speaking of which, the IG Prestige Mid is crazy good...but it's a heavy mid sized stick and comes with the usual caveats (low powered, small sweet spot, heavy).

The MW200G to me is a more accessible and powerful IG Prestige Mid. No mods required, play it stock. It's a dunlop, so unfortunately many overlook it.

The RF97 is its own beast. It's ridiculously stable. Its also powerful, probably up there with the AI98. I don't think the heft is an issue, but to many it is. If anyone is trying to use the RF97 and find it's just isn't working for them, I'd suggest you try some of the frames I just wrote about.

 

[Captain Ron]

What do you string the PC 95+ with?
I'm using the ps ltd and ltd+ and using gamma moto at 42 lbs.

Just saw this post. I'd love to chime in as I was in the same boat. Over the past year, I've used WAY TOO many rackets including:

1. Prostaff 95
   
2. Blade 98
   
3. Blade 93
   
4. PS97
   
5. RF97
   
6. Steam 99S
   
7. PS90
   
8. Redondo 93
   
9. Ki5 PSE
   
10. MW 200G
    
11. YT Speed Pro
    
12. IG Prestige Mid
    
13. Prince POG OS
    
14. Prince POG 100
    
15. Prince POG 100
    
16. Yonex Tour G 330
    
17. Yonex Tour G 310
    
18. AI 98
    
19. Tecnifibre 315 Ltd
    
20. X Force Pro
    
21. X Force Pro 18x20
    
22. Pacific Vacuum 90
    
23. Volkl C10 Pro
    
24. Babolats: PDR+
    
25. APD+
    
26. Pure Strike
    
27. Pure Control
    
28. Pure Strike Tour
    
29. Pure Control Tour
    
30. Pure Control 95+
    

I've just repurchased the Babolat Pure Control 95+ and received 2 Prince Response 97 in a trade...havent had a chance to hit with them.

Bit of background: I'm a 4.5 left player (formerly ran one of the largest college club tennis programs in the US). I'm rely on my serve and left ground strokes, but love to attack and get to net to close out the point.



Out of all the rackets I've used (and I'm sure I'm missing some), my favorites were the RF97, PC95+, Tech 315 Ltd, IG Prestige Mid, MW200G, AI 98 and X Force Pros.



Of those, I think the AI98 is best all around stick for the masses. It does everythng well, but nothing spectacular. I think the X Force Pro is a close second, doing every well. It has better feel, but is slightly less powerful and more control oriented.



The PC95+ is a better serving stick than the above 2, and I consider it to be a better option for slightly more advanced players. Its heftier, better off the serve, and great touch/feel. It's also an extended length racket for those who like those frames.



The Tec 315 Ltd is a FANTASTIC platform frame. It requires modding to bring it to life though, so I think many overlook it. It reminds me of the older head prestiges. Speaking of which, the IG Prestige Mid is crazy good...but it's a heavy mid sized stick and comes with the usual caveats (low powered, small sweet spot, heavy).



The MW200G to me is a more accessible and powerful IG Prestige Mid. No mods required, play it stock. It's a dunlop, so unfortunately many overlook it.



The RF97 is its own beast. It's ridiculously stable. Its also powerful, probably up there with the AI98. I don't think the heft is an issue, but to many it is. If anyone is trying to use the RF97 and find it's just isn't working for them, I'd suggest you try some of the frames I just wrote about.

 

[Soundbyte]

I've been stringing all my rackets between 35-45lbs. I'll likely string it up with a copoly at 40. I have a ton of individual sets from my stringing for others days, but I'll likely settle on something like Cyclone, tour bite, or a luxilon string.

 

[Fuji]

I've been stringing all my rackets between 35-45lbs. I'll likely string it up with a copoly at 40. I have a ton of individual sets from my stringing for others days, but I'll likely settle on something like Cyclone, tour bite, or a luxilon string.

Oh man, Tour bite in the high 30s / low 40s is a dream string. Absolutely love it.

-Fuji

 

[spinovic]

'Holicing about to ensue...

TFight Dynacore 315
Six.One 95S
Tour 100 (16x18)

Assuming my order goes through alright, should be here by mid-week. Can't wait. It's been a while since I've had a chance to feed my inner racketaholic.

 

[nickynu]

'Holicing about to ensue...

TFight Dynacore 315
Six.One 95S
Tour 100 (16x18)

Assuming my order goes through alright, should be here by mid-week. Can't wait. It's been a while since I've had a chance to feed my inner racketaholic.

I've had to 'holic a Dynacore 315 demo myself. If this does not work out then the APD looms as the only solution, and I do not want that but may have to submit to its everyman ease of use. Damn.

Can you give a detailed review once you've used the Tech please. I loved it on hard court where I could set up properly, but not quite so good on fast carpet. It feels heavier than its spec to me, but its counter-intuitive as it can be moved very quickly, soooo.......

 

[GL44]

Great post Soundbyte. And spinovic, please let us know what you think of the Dynacore, especially since you're a 315 Ltd. user.

I myself have just switched to Yoko, but find it hard to resist the demo urge, especially this time of year. I know... "holic" all the way.

On the way this week is a Yoko 18, Pure Control Tour, PCG 100, and my 3rd go with the RF 97, albeit I finally was able to get it with a poly in there. Can't wait.

 

[spinovic]

I've had to 'holic a Dynacore 315 demo myself. If this does not work out then the APD looms as the only solution, and I do not want that but may have to submit to its everyman ease of use. Damn.

Can you give a detailed review once you've used the Tech please. I loved it on hard court where I could set up properly, but not quite so good on fast carpet. It feels heavier than its spec to me, but its counter-intuitive as it can be moved very quickly, soooo.......

Interesting enough, I've debated most of the weekend on what to get. I had pretty much decided on a PD. Anyway, to spare all the details, for some reason I decided to check all the used frames again to make sure there was nothing I had overlooked, not figuring TW would update them on a Sunday. But, lo and behold, three new 6.1's and the Dynacore had been added. So, I had to quickly redo my cart to add those in place of what I had...

I couldn't resist a pretty good deal on a used TFight Dynacore since I loved the 320 and obviously play with the Ltd.

 

[spinovic]

Great post Soundbyte. And spinovic, please let us know what you think of the Dynacore, especially since you're a 315 Ltd. user.

I myself have just switched to Yoko, but find it hard to resist the demo urge, especially this time of year. I know... "holic" all the way.

On the way this week is a Yoko 18, Pure Control Tour, PCG 100, and my 3rd go with the RF 97, albeit I finally was able to get it with a poly in there. Can't wait.

I've never played the 18 Main version of Yoko.

And, yes, I'll try to give some 'Holicing updates on all my new frames...unstrung specs, initial impressions and so forth, for anyone interested.

I'm looking forward to trying all of them. Always wanted to try the O-port Prince frames for myself, particularly this one.

And, the 6.1 has always been the spin frame that intrigued me most.

 

[GL44]

I've never played the 18 Main version of Yoko.

And, yes, I'll try to give some 'Holicing updates on all my new frames...unstrung specs, initial impressions and so forth, for anyone interested.

I'm looking forward to trying all of them. Always wanted to try the O-port Prince frames for myself, particularly this one.

And, the 6.1 has always been the spin frame that intrigued me most.

I figured I should give the 18 Main a try just to make sure. It's gonna take some pretty serious results to sway me from the 16.

I love the Tour 100, and you might, as well. It was between that and Yoko for me.