Diary of a Racketaholic

[JGads]

Spent a solid 15 minutes trying to find review on the prestige mp 2021 and finding nothing - I'm guessing it's kinda odd/niche or why am I not finding anything? lol

Just trying to narrow it down to a few frames to test at some point . Rn it's a bit too long for comfort:

1. Prestige MP 2021
2. Boom Pro
3. Speed Pro
4. Gravity Pro
5. Blade 16x19 (if possible V7, I don't like the sound of the new V8 relative to my V7 Blades... I love their pocketing, comfort, and feel)
6. Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310
7. Tec TF 40 (???)

Still looking for something a bit like the Blade but with more of a open string pattern feel to it, especially on serve where I'd like easier movement on the ball on the kicker especially. Thoughts? (I've put the GP in bold cause PP highly recommended it to me, that one is staying).

Im very curious how the Prestige MP plays as well. It’s less headlight than a typical prestige but that could easily be changed with some leather or putty. It makes me wonder if it is sort of the baseline basher version of the prestige which would be pretty awesome.

As for the demos, you may consider Radical MP, or Diadem Elevate (or tour)

Paging @808 ... The MP sounds like a great frame (and I can vouch that the European MP-L with some slight tweakage has a lot going for it too). ... For what it's worth, the Nerd's latest video makes it sound as if the new Speed Pro could be really good, too, and that wouldn't surprise me since the Auxetic layup is something I really like in the Prestiges.

Seems I'm turning into dr325

 

[topspn]

Sounds good. How does it compare to BK, GW and Cream?

BK is much firmer, more controlled poly. GW is only good for a cross in my opinion. Really not playable full bed at least for me. Way to lively but maybe needs some serious tension. Cream I've never tried. Flash can be played at normal poly tension and it is super comfy. If it is played in a racquet that is hefty in weight or SW, I'd up the tension.

 

[taylor15]

Paging @808 ... The MP sounds like a great frame (and I can vouch that the European MP-L with some slight tweakage has a lot going for it too). ... For what it's worth, the Nerd's latest video makes it sound as if the new Speed Pro could be really good, too, and that wouldn't surprise me since the Auxetic layup is something I really like in the Prestiges.

Seems I'm turning into dr325

I wouldn’t mind trying the MP alongside the MP-L. I would have to find an under spec one though so I could match them.

 

[Power Player]

Paging @808 ... The MP sounds like a great frame (and I can vouch that the European MP-L with some slight tweakage has a lot going for it too). ... For what it's worth, the Nerd's latest video makes it sound as if the new Speed Pro could be really good, too, and that wouldn't surprise me since the Auxetic layup is something I really like in the Prestiges.

Seems I'm turning into dr325

Now that i have embraced the 18x20 in a 100, the speed pro makes a lot of sense if i ever wanted more power.

soft, has power, string pattern is not too open. All very good things. I prefer the thin beam of the gravity pro and the classic feel though.

i do remember hitting with the 2nd gen speed years ago and that thing felt sweet. It was a different kind of feel compared to the head classics, but still really nice.

 

[RF_PRO_STAFF]

After trying gut/poly and poly/gut hybrids in several variations over the past few months, I've come to the conclusion that it's probably not for me. I LOVE the feel on contact and the overall performance is great, but I just can't deal with the extra zip on the ball compared to full poly. I hit long way too much for my liking with these gut hybrid setups. It's a huge confidence killer in the long run, and I just can't handle that. Plus with the gut on the crosses, the crosses as well as the poly mains just move way too much for me to keep enjoying it. Don't have that problem at all with the gut on the mains but that setup is even more (too) powerful. I do have to say that I haven't tried tensions that are on the higher side but I'm not sure I want to go there.

Also toying with the idea of getting rid of, or at least storing the rackets that I don't play with that often. I've done this before but holicism kicked back in. You know how it goes... But the thing is that having this many rackets as my disposal is messing with my mind and is most importantly affecting my overall game in a negative way. I'd keep the VC95's '18, VCP97 '21 and UP16's so this is what I'm thinking about:
- VC95 2018 x3 (keepers, nothing beats it for me performance wise)
- VCP97 '21 (keeper, if I didn't discover the VC95 this could've been my stick)
- UP16 x2 (keepers, just below the Yonexes performance wise but superior feel, love them)
- TC95 16x19 (will keep it because I love the looks and it's so much fun. Best serving stick but don't play my best tennis with it apart from that. Will keep it stored.)
- Duel G 310 x3 (selling, two of them have been up for sale for months already. Was going to keep the other one but it just feels to tinny/jarring. Plays great though)
- VCP HD (might keep it for the fantastic feel, but might as well sell it since it has only seen the court once since July)
- UT (kind of want to keep it for the odd day because playing with it feels godly but it just doesn't give you much as we all know. Won't get much $ for it either but on the other side I'm hardly using it)

At the same time of saying I want to get rid of some frames to make things less complicated, there's still two frames that really make me curious. One is the PS97, the other is the CX200 Tour 16x19. The PS97 will probably end up feeling too stiff to keep it, the Dunlop could really be something. The tennis gods make life hard...

 

[taylor15]

After trying gut/poly and poly/gut hybrids in several variations over the past few months, I've come to the conclusion that it's probably not for me. I LOVE the feel on contact and the overall performance is great, but I just can't deal with the extra zip on the ball compared to full poly. I hit long way too much for my liking with these gut hybrid setups. It's a huge confidence killer in the long run, and I just can't handle that. Plus with the gut on the crosses, the crosses as well as the poly mains just move way too much for me to keep enjoying it. Don't have that problem at all with the gut on the mains but that setup is even more (too) powerful. I do have to say that I haven't tried tensions that are on the higher side but I'm not sure I want to go there.

Also toying with the idea of getting rid of, or at least storing the rackets that I don't play with that often. I've done this before but holicism kicked back in. You know how it goes... But the thing is that having this many rackets as my disposal is messing with my mind and is most importantly affecting my overall game in a negative way. I'd keep the VC95's '18, VCP97 '21 and UP16's so this is what I'm thinking about:
- VC95 2018 x3 (keepers, nothing beats it for me performance wise)
- VCP97 '21 (keeper, if I didn't discover the VC95 this could've been my stick)
- UP16 x2 (keepers, just below the Yonexes performance wise but superior feel, love them)
- TC95 16x19 (will keep it because I love the looks and it's so much fun. Best serving stick but don't play my best tennis with it apart from that. Will keep it stored.)
- Duel G 310 x3 (selling, two of them have been up for sale for months already. Was going to keep the other one but it just feels to tinny/jarring. Plays great though)
- VCP HD (might keep it for the fantastic feel, but might as well sell it since it has only seen the court once since July)
- UT (kind of want to keep it for the odd day because playing with it feels godly but it just doesn't give you much as we all know. Won't get much $ for it either but on the other side I'm hardly using it)

At the same time of saying I want to get rid of some frames to make things less complicated, there's still two frames that really make me curious. One is the PS97, the other is the CX200 Tour 16x19. The PS97 will probably end up feeling too stiff to keep it, the Dunlop could really be something. The tennis gods make life hard...

If you want to try the PS97 you may as well their the Prestige Pro (now tour?) in there. Much better feeling frame.
Personally I think you’ll be underwhelmed with the Dunlop. The VC95 and UP for me do more to the ball and feel better while doing it.

 

[RF_PRO_STAFF]

If you want to try the PS97 you may as well their the Prestige Pro (now tour?) in there. Much better feeling frame.
Personally I think you’ll be underwhelmed with the Dunlop. The VC95 and UP for me do more to the ball and feel better while doing it.

I did try the 360+ Prestige Pro last summer. I actually liked pretty much everything about that frame. Even some nice power to it but very controllable. Thanks for the feedback on the CX200 Tour. Useful since you're also very familiar with the UP16 and VC95.

 

[topspn]

After trying gut/poly and poly/gut hybrids in several variations over the past few months, I've come to the conclusion that it's probably not for me. I LOVE the feel on contact and the overall performance is great, but I just can't deal with the extra zip on the ball compared to full poly. I hit long way too much for my liking with these gut hybrid setups. It's a huge confidence killer in the long run, and I just can't handle that. Plus with the gut on the crosses, the crosses as well as the poly mains just move way too much for me to keep enjoying it. Don't have that problem at all with the gut on the mains but that setup is even more (too) powerful. I do have to say that I haven't tried tensions that are on the higher side but I'm not sure I want to go there.

Also toying with the idea of getting rid of, or at least storing the rackets that I don't play with that often. I've done this before but holicism kicked back in. You know how it goes... But the thing is that having this many rackets as my disposal is messing with my mind and is most importantly affecting my overall game in a negative way. I'd keep the VC95's '18, VCP97 '21 and UP16's so this is what I'm thinking about:
- VC95 2018 x3 (keepers, nothing beats it for me performance wise)
- VCP97 '21 (keeper, if I didn't discover the VC95 this could've been my stick)
- UP16 x2 (keepers, just below the Yonexes performance wise but superior feel, love them)
- TC95 16x19 (will keep it because I love the looks and it's so much fun. Best serving stick but don't play my best tennis with it apart from that. Will keep it stored.)
- Duel G 310 x3 (selling, two of them have been up for sale for months already. Was going to keep the other one but it just feels to tinny/jarring. Plays great though)
- VCP HD (might keep it for the fantastic feel, but might as well sell it since it has only seen the court once since July)
- UT (kind of want to keep it for the odd day because playing with it feels godly but it just doesn't give you much as we all know. Won't get much $ for it either but on the other side I'm hardly using it)

At the same time of saying I want to get rid of some frames to make things less complicated, there's still two frames that really make me curious. One is the PS97, the other is the CX200 Tour 16x19. The PS97 will probably end up feeling too stiff to keep it, the Dunlop could really be something. The tennis gods make life hard...

It's really interesting that Angell never wanted to adjust from that combination of power and high launch that makes the racquet erratic in play. Fun racquet for sure and yes one hell of a serving stick. Kick serves were ridiculous. His old partner is ZUS whose racquet is quite different and very very special in feel and versatility. None of the down sides of the TC95/100. No launch in string bed here, just what you want out of a shot gets delivered.

 

[RF_PRO_STAFF]

It's really interesting that Angell never wanted to adjust from that combination of power and high launch that makes the racquet erratic in play. Fun racquet for sure and yes one hell of a serving stick. Kick serves were ridiculous. His old partner is ZUS whose racquet is quite different and very very special in feel and versatility. None of the down sides of the TC95/100. No launch in string bed here, just what you want out of a shot gets delivered.

I agree, all the TC95 16x19 really needs is a small change in the drilling pattern or even adding an extra cross to make it a magical 16x20. 8 mains in the throat would probably also make a lot more people fully switch to it.
I personally feel it's also a tiny bit jarring and unforgiving outside the sweetspot compared to some other 95's. Low tension can emphasize the launch angle and control issues so that's why it has never worked for me a 100%. But when your game is on, it's a devastating bully.

I'll look a bit further into ZUS. Been reading your guys' posts about it but haven't checked it out before.

 

[SpinToWin]

It's really interesting that Angell never wanted to adjust from that combination of power and high launch that makes the racquet erratic in play. Fun racquet for sure and yes one hell of a serving stick. Kick serves were ridiculous. His old partner is ZUS whose racquet is quite different and very very special in feel and versatility. None of the down sides of the TC95/100. No launch in string bed here, just what you want out of a shot gets delivered.

Jives with my experience with them years back. Preferred the 97 back then. That was a sweet frame now that I think of it haaaa

 

[808]

It makes me wonder if it is sort of the baseline basher version of the prestige which would be pretty awesome.

It is and it's indeed pretty awesome. A modernised Prestige, if you will.

 

[Crashbaby]

Just a note to everyone (not aimed at you in any negative way at all - just using your post to mention it)... can we start abbreviating the racquets clearer now that there are two BPs?

The Head Boom Pro is perhaps (HBP) and the Wilson Blade Pro is (WBP). That way we know which racquets are being talked about.

Is that fair?

On a seperate note... I have found that Volkl Cyclone tends to feel a little stiffer at my usual tension than some other strings of same gauge at the beginning, but then loosens up a bit after the initial hit or two. So I either keep that in mind, or I drop it a few pounds lower (particularly if it's a tighter string pattern). What I have also found is that Cyclone can produce a bit of power after it has settled in, so that needs to be taken into account. At least that been my experience.

Hope that helps

Nope, first in best dressed. The Blade Pro is BP, that’s locked in.
Boom can be HBP as suggested or Boom Pro.

 

[Pneumated1]

It's really interesting that Angell never wanted to adjust from that combination of power and high launch that makes the racquet erratic in play. Fun racquet for sure and yes one hell of a serving stick. Kick serves were ridiculous. His old partner is ZUS whose racquet is quite different and very very special in feel and versatility. None of the down sides of the TC95/100. No launch in string bed here, just what you want out of a shot gets delivered.

Ok, I admit I've largely ignored the ZUS chatter in the thread, but this was Paul's partner with Vantage? Besides fixing the string bed, do they offer a 98? That's another head scratcher from Angell: no 98. It's probably only the second most popular MP racquet size in tennis. Looking into ZUS. I had no idea.

 

[topspn]

Nope, first in best dressed. The Blade Pro is BP, that’s locked in.
Boom can be HBP as suggested or Boom Pro.

Indeed BP totally coined already.

 

[BallBasher247]

Ok, I admit I've largely ignored the ZUS chatter in the thread, but this was Paul's partner with Vantage? Besides fixing the string bed, do they offer a 98? That's another head scratcher from Angell: no 98. It's probably only the second most popular MP racquet size in tennis. Looking into ZUS. I had no idea.

Thing is Angell at least has a 97; ZUS needs a 97/98. Their 16x19 is nice tho…

 

[Pneumated1]

Thing is Angell at least has a 97; ZUS needs a 97/98. Their 16x19 is nice tho…

Yeah, that was quick. No 98 and I saw the price. That idea fizzled in a flash.

 

[BallBasher247]

Yeah, that was quick. No 98 and I saw the price. That idea fizzled in a flash.

They do have a 6.1 16x18 copy tho; sells for $219 so better than Wilson Pro Labs stuff….

 

[Pneumated1]

They do have a 6.1 16x18 copy tho; sells for $219 so better than Wilson Pro Labs stuff….

To quote Tom Hanks, "Never again, Wilson. Never again."

 

[mad dog1]

Ok, I admit I've largely ignored the ZUS chatter in the thread, but this was Paul's partner with Vantage? Besides fixing the string bed, do they offer a 98? That's another head scratcher from Angell: no 98. It's probably only the second most popular MP racquet size in tennis. Looking into ZUS. I had no idea.

Yeah, but $399 for a racquet? When so many pros, top D1, and top junior players are using off the rack retail sticks, I think retail racquets are good enough for me.

 

[topspn]

Ok, I admit I've largely ignored the ZUS chatter in the thread, but this was Paul's partner with Vantage? Besides fixing the string bed, do they offer a 98? That's another head scratcher from Angell: no 98. It's probably only the second most popular MP racquet size in tennis. Looking into ZUS. I had no idea.

Yes, he was! The ZUS custom is not gonna remind you of the TC95. This isn't the same mold, layup or drill pattern. Just a different animal altogether and its addictive. He makes the custom in 95 and 100 so no 98. I think these smaller more boutique businesses just have trouble producing wider ranges.

 

[Pneumated1]

Yeah, but $399 for a racquet? When so many pros, top D1, and top junior players are using off the rack retail sticks, I think retail racquets are good enough for me.

See my follow-up posts I'm with you.

 

[BallBasher247]

To quote Tom Hanks, "Never again, Wilson. Never again."

Yeah, I feel that. My UP16s have been my main (& only) sticks after I broke my Elevate, but with their QC, no grommets and no stock in my grip size for literally 5 months I can’t justify buying another one even tho I love em. Just bought an FS Elevate that I’ll prolly switch to; looking for another atm.

Yeah, but $399 for a racquet? When so many pros, top D1, and top junior players are using off the rack retail sticks, I think retail racquets are good enough for me.

Yeah, that’s steep. Retail sticks are getting pricey too but there’s a few that are still at the $200 mark. Appreciate how Prince, Dunlop, Diadem & even Solinco are keeping prices reasonable

 

[jakefromstatefarm]

I can try to help. A big fan of V7 18m and played with it up until end of summer. Then I wanted to look for something more helpful on defense with a bit more energy return and bigger sweetspot as I started playing with better players. I tested a lot of racquets and I can recommend Vc95 and extreme tour.

Vc95 will give you a very good shaping of the ball and will make for an easier spin vs V7. I find it to have a bigger sweetspot and a bit more energy return. You will lose plow and honestly won't loose much on precision.. it is more manuevarable as well. Feel is very mediocre.

Extreme Tour is a bit string sensitive for feel but with right strings (4g) i found a very similar comfort and feel (reminded me of V7 actually) along with dampener. I don't use dampeners but in this one I do. So ET is super good all-rounder. You can flatten the ball, it definitely makes spin easier. Serves bombz.. very good control/predictable... I never had a ball launch of the stringbed where I was like what just happened. If the hitting pace is high then this racket actually shines even more. Recommended.

Now, I should have tried the GP for sure.. and the only reason I did not bc of weight and SW as I figured it would be a bit clunky but PP is right . I think getting a lightweight one of these could really be great. Truly great. This is an itch I know I am going to have to scratch too I think..

And finally.. out of nowhere... Gads got to me and I got myself a unCAPed PT2.0.. boy oh boy. Mine is 323sw... 333gr. And 6hl. Now this racket came out of nowhere and I actually told Gads that this is a blade killer for me as much as I love the V7. More meauverable... Hits above its 323 SW even... There definitely heaviness to the balls . I can't talk to spin.. I think there is plenty enough but I usually do not care about how much a racket helps with spin but there are rare occasions I notice where it is definitely easier than others (for ex. ET above can hit a ball that kicks up easier than other rackets)... Anyways.. pt2.0 hits a very good penetrating/moving forward spin/action on the ball. I will spend a bit more time to test it out on more pressure situations. So far only one hit with it but can't wait to hit with it again. Also I am not even talking about the feel bc the feel of the racket is another universe than all others. Now I know where the original butter comes from.

To help you with the list above. I tried the new vcp97 310 and launch angle was a bit high/launchy for me. I just really like launch angles on the lower end so that's personal. You may enjoy it.

With TFs.. you are not going to find anything really whole lot different than V7... I don't think you will get the spin help but you may get more energy return/power at mid and low effort to help slightly bit more on defense.

Sorry - what is the uncapped PT2.0? I just learned the Pro Kennex lexicon, but don’t know which stick you are referring to here. @AA7

 

[topspn]

See my follow-up posts I'm with you.

I refer you both to Tim's eloquent explanation why its really not that expensive. Or just go on with life not knowing what you missed. Or maybe you won't care. Who knows

 

[AA7]

Sorry - what is the uncapped PT2.0? I just learned the Pro Kennex lexicon, but don’t know which stick you are referring to here. @AA7

Pt2.0 is Head pro tour 2.0 which comes with CAP grommets that add about 12 grams and 21sw pts to the racket compared TK231 grommets which also fit into this racket. Basically a way to take the racket to specs more to my liking.

 

[Pneumated1]

Yeah, I feel that. My UP16s have been my main (& only) sticks after I broke my Elevate, but with their QC, no grommets and no stock in my grip size for literally 5 months I can’t justify buying another one even tho I love em. Just bought an FS Elevate that I’ll prolly switch to; looking for another atm.

Yeah, that’s steep. Retail sticks are getting pricey too but there’s a few that are still at the $200 mark. Appreciate how Prince, Dunlop, Diadem & even Solinco are keeping prices reasonable

I'm not really brand loyal and have nothing against Wilson, so if they produce a gem, I'll hit a Wilson. This may sound crazy, but if the UP was a little softer/more buttery, I don't think I'd have sold mine. I really just wanted a UT in a 16x19, but the UPs are great frames in their own right. Actually, I've been resisting trying the PS97 v13 since I've read comparisons of it to the BAP (my only frame currently) and wish the BAP was stiffer (this and my last sentence are not as contradictory as they might seem, haha).

I refer you both to Tim's eloquent explanation why its really not that expensive. Or just go on with life not knowing what you missed. Or maybe you won't care. Who knows

Well played

 

[taylor15]

Yeah, I feel that. My UP16s have been my main (& only) sticks after I broke my Elevate, but with their QC, no grommets and no stock in my grip size for literally 5 months I can’t justify buying another one even tho I love em. Just bought an FS Elevate that I’ll prolly switch to; looking for another atm.

Yeah, that’s steep. Retail sticks are getting pricey too but there’s a few that are still at the $200 mark. Appreciate how Prince, Dunlop, Diadem & even Solinco are keeping prices reasonable

Wilson is unbearable with their lack of inventory. Pandemic, shipping etc etc aside they could get grommets. If I can get custom racquets in 12 weeks they can make it happen I’m sure. I’m almost done with them as well even though I love the UP

 

[Superchoo]

Pt2.0 is Head pro tour 2.0 which comes with CAP grommets that add about 12 grams and 21sw pts to the racket compared TK231 grommets which also fit into this racket. Basically a way to take the racket to specs more to my liking.

Anyone know whether the CAP grommets on the ‘21 Prestige Tour can be replaced with TK231 grommets or something similar?

Wondering if the ‘21 PT could be turned into a 16x19 version of the CAP-less PT2.0, albeit with a slightly thicker beam.
I’d certainly like to see a version of the ‘21 PT with less SW.

 

[BPlain]

Pt2.0 is Head pro tour 2.0 which comes with CAP grommets that add about 12 grams and 21sw pts to the racket compared TK231 grommets which also fit into this racket. Basically a way to take the racket to specs more to my liking.

I’m guessing the feel is pretty much the same uncapped, but does the plow and stability drop noticeably when uncapped? Cc @JGads

I’m still enjoying my return to the 2021 Q+Tour 315 and my adventure into multi/poly hybrid world but I’m very tempted to try out an uncapped PT just for fun.

 

[BallBasher247]

I'm not really brand loyal and have nothing against Wilson, so if they produce a gem, I'll hit a Wilson. This may sound crazy, but if the UP was a little softer/more buttery, I don't think I'd have sold mine. I really just wanted a UT in a 16x19, but the UPs are great frames in their own right. Actually, I've been resisting trying the PS97 v13 since I've read comparisons of it to the BAP (my only frame currently) and wish the BAP was stiffer (this and my last sentence are not as contradictory as they might seem, haha).

Agreed, nth against Wilson but they need to get their caca together.

UT and UP are the same frame; maybe the glassier/harder paint on the UPs makes em feel crisper than the UTs. Couldn’t tell a diff. btwn the UT I tried and my UP16s except the extra spin.

PS97 v13 is really nice; plays like a crisper, more dampened UP. Won’t buy one at $280 tho.

Seems like the Elevate would be up your alley. Has to be tail-weighted and might need head wt. but its great. The new Solinco Whiteout looks interesting too; easy to mod w/ the weighted buttcaps. Both of these are $60 cheaper than the PS97.

Wilson is unbearable with their lack of inventory. Pandemic, shipping etc etc aside they could get grommets. If I can get custom racquets in 12 weeks they can make it happen I’m sure. I’m almost done with them as well even though I love the UP

Yup. I love mine too much to sell but won’t buy another bc Im fed w/ Wilson. Judging by last year this FS Elevate is prob gonna be my match stick. Last Elevate gave me a bit more power & spin than UP in a more maneuverable package, but still had amazing feel and good control (esp. when I flatten the ball…gotta love 16x20); new FS feels almost the same. Best of all their QC is actually decent

 

[EggSalad]

I haven’t read or posted in this thread in months up until yesterday. And now I want to by a prince and a prestige. I see how it is.

 

[JGads]

I’m guessing the feel is pretty much the same uncapped, but does the plow and stability drop noticeably when uncapped? Cc @JGads

I’m still enjoying my return to the 2021 Q+Tour 315 and my adventure into multi/poly hybrid world but I’m very tempted to try out an uncapped PT just for fun.

A decent amount of lead weight must be added back but once that's done, it's magic. Mine are swinging at about 337g, 324sw, 6 points HL. To which some might say, "well that's not so far off from just leaving it capped," but the difference in how it swings like this is night and day. And the magic is still there. The stringbed honesty + vroom vroom gear when you press on the gas is unreal. I don't mean to enable but this frame alongside the Limoncello 315 could be an outstanding pair/comparison. Actually I do mean to enable.

The extendeds arrive Monday.

 

[mad dog1]

UT and UP are the same frame

They feel similar to me, but not the same. The UT has more butter while the UP seems to call for margarine in the layup.

 

[tim-ay]

I refer you both to Tim's eloquent explanation why its really not that expensive. Or just go on with life not knowing what you missed. Or maybe you won't care. Who knows

I spent 250 bucks on a pet sitter this week. Yeah, 3xx for a tennis racket doesn’t remotely phase me for this level of value and customization. And that price includes taxes. And it cures holicism. Smoking deal.

 

[mad dog1]

I spent 250 bucks on a pet sitter this week. Yeah, 3xx for a tennis racket doesn’t remotely phase me for this level of value and customization. And that price includes taxes. And it cures holicism. Smoking deal.

My 2012 PDs (in my collection for the past 7 years) + a briffidi cured me!

 

[mad dog1]

Thanks to the generosity of @gold325, I got to try the 2018 VC95 and compare it with the 2021 version. I matched the specs of the loaner 2018 to that of my 2021. The 2018 is a very good stick. The 2021 is a bit stiffer, a bit more dampened feel, a bit more stable, and has a bit more power. For me, the edge goes to the 2021.

 

[taylor15]

My 2012 PDs (in my collection for the past 7 years) + a briffidi cured me!

What about the collection of pure Aeros?

 

[Pneumated1]

Seems like the Elevate would be up your alley. Has to be tail-weighted and might need head wt. but its great. The new Solinco Whiteout looks interesting too; easy to mod w/ the weighted buttcaps. Both of these are $60 cheaper than the PS97.

Yup. I love mine too much to sell but won’t buy another bc Im fed w/ Wilson. Judging by last year this FS Elevate is prob gonna be my match stick. Last Elevate gave me a bit more power & spin than UP in a more maneuverable package, but still had amazing feel and good control (esp. when I flatten the ball…gotta love 16x20); new FS feels almost the same. Best of all their QC is actually decent

Just came from the Diadem site, and I'm impressed, but I'd be torn between the FS Elevate and Elevate Tour. Have you by any chance hit the espresso/limoncello (300 or 315)? How do the Elevates compare, if so?

Here's where I am: have a Dunlop CX 200 Tour on hold, but I'm not seeing the benefit of a 95" frame moving forward and would really like to do some homework and find the 98" unicorn. I've had a few others whose opinions I respect recommend the Elevates. Sometimes timing is everything, and I'm in just the kind of mood to pick one up on a whim. I could see adding a leather grip and modding the hoop some. Should flex out strung around 61? 16x20, 98", and a sliver over my ideal beam width of 21mm (won't sweat half a millimeter).

Otherwise, I'm pretty well committed to finding a player-tweener to carry me into my 50s (Gravity Tour/Pro, Speed MP/Pro, V1 Pro).

 

[PrinceYonex]

I can try to help. A big fan of V7 18m and played with it up until end of summer. Then I wanted to look for something more helpful on defense with a bit more energy return and bigger sweetspot as I started playing with better players. I tested a lot of racquets and I can recommend Vc95 and extreme tour.

Vc95 will give you a very good shaping of the ball and will make for an easier spin vs V7. I find it to have a bigger sweetspot and a bit more energy return. You will lose plow and honestly won't loose much on precision.. it is more manuevarable as well. Feel is very mediocre.

Extreme Tour is a bit string sensitive for feel but with right strings (4g) i found a very similar comfort and feel (reminded me of V7 actually) along with dampener. I don't use dampeners but in this one I do. So ET is super good all-rounder. You can flatten the ball, it definitely makes spin easier. Serves bombz.. very good control/predictable... I never had a ball launch of the stringbed where I was like what just happened. If the hitting pace is high then this racket actually shines even more. Recommended.

Now, I should have tried the GP for sure.. and the only reason I did not bc of weight and SW as I figured it would be a bit clunky but PP is right . I think getting a lightweight one of these could really be great. Truly great. This is an itch I know I am going to have to scratch too I think..

And finally.. out of nowhere... Gads got to me and I got myself a unCAPed PT2.0.. boy oh boy. Mine is 323sw... 333gr. And 6hl. Now this racket came out of nowhere and I actually told Gads that this is a blade killer for me as much as I love the V7. More meauverable... Hits above its 323 SW even... There definitely heaviness to the balls . I can't talk to spin.. I think there is plenty enough but I usually do not care about how much a racket helps with spin but there are rare occasions I notice where it is definitely easier than others (for ex. ET above can hit a ball that kicks up easier than other rackets)... Anyways.. pt2.0 hits a very good penetrating/moving forward spin/action on the ball. I will spend a bit more time to test it out on more pressure situations. So far only one hit with it but can't wait to hit with it again. Also I am not even talking about the feel bc the feel of the racket is another universe than all others. Now I know where the original butter comes from.

To help you with the list above. I tried the new vcp97 310 and launch angle was a bit high/launchy for me. I just really like launch angles on the lower end so that's personal. You may enjoy it.

With TFs.. you are not going to find anything really whole lot different than V7... I don't think you will get the spin help but you may get more energy return/power at mid and low effort to help slightly bit more on defense.

Your uncapped PT specs sound fantastic. Did you end up having to add lead after uncapping?

 

[mad dog1]

What about the collection of pure Aeros?

Still have these, too. Also excellent!

 

[AA7]

Your uncapped PT specs sound fantastic. Did you end up having to add lead after uncapping?

Original
W: 319.98g Bal: (31.44cm) 9pts HL SW: 297
Regrommets
W: 307.10g Bal: (30.96cm) 11.5pts HL SW: 276
Strung
W:325.51g Bal:7.5pts HL SW:308

Added about total of 6gr total at 10 and 2 (3gr on each side) plus OG to final specs:
W:335gr Bal:6pts HL SW:323

So you can get to those specs without any weight on the hoop if you ask TW to start with 310sw-ish and regrommets.

 

[Pneumated1]

Actually, I've changed my mind. Watching the men's AO doubles final taped, and I want Ebden's racquet. Probably an older radical. So yeah, one of those too.

 

[PrinceYonex]

Original
W: 319.98g Bal: (31.44cm) 9pts HL SW: 297
Regrommets
W: 307.10g Bal: (30.96cm) 11.5pts HL SW: 276
Strung
W:325.51g Bal:7.5pts HL SW:308

Added about total of 6gr total at 10 and 2 (3gr on each side) plus OG to final specs:
W:335gr Bal:6pts HL SW:323

So you can get to those specs without any weight on the hoop if you ask TW to start with 310sw-ish and regrommets.

I’ve got to get me some of these rad mp grommets

 

[BallBasher247]

They feel similar to me, but not the same. The UT has more butter while the UP seems to call for margarine in the layup.

Probably bc of the paint. The one difference I noticed btwn UT and UP is the paint’s harder and more durable on the UP. UTs paint’s like butter; UPs more like caramelized sugar iyk what I mean. I think it changes the feel of the racket. Kinda like how all the velvet Wilsons feel kinda rubbery to me

Just came from the Diadem site, and I'm impressed, but I'd be torn between the FS Elevate and Elevate Tour. Have you by any chance hit the espresso/limoncello (300 or 315)? How do the Elevates compare, if so?

Here's where I am: have a Dunlop CX 200 Tour on hold, but I'm not seeing the benefit of a 95" frame moving forward and would really like to do some homework and find the 98" unicorn. I've had a few others whose opinions I respect recommend the Elevates. Sometimes timing is everything, and I'm in just the kind of mood to pick one up on a whim. I could see adding a leather grip and modding the hoop some. Should flex out strung around 61? 16x20, 98", and a sliver over my ideal beam width of 21mm (won't sweat half a millimeter).

Otherwise, I'm pretty well committed to finding a player-tweener to carry me into my 50s (Gravity Tour/Pro, Speed MP/Pro, V1 Pro).

Haven’t hit those PKs but AFAIK the Elevates are similar power/spin, more controlled on flat shots (16x20), more stable, but have better feel (it’s sth special, trust me). Regular Elevate is 61 strung, Elevate Tour is 64 strung. If you want more pocketing and don’t mind modding get the regular Elevate; I modded mine (both OG. and new FS) to 11.7-11.8oz/32cm/~325SW and they play fantastic. @Gee modded his to 12.3oz and loves em. FWIW of the sticks you mentioned the GPro is the only one I’d pick over the Elevate if you need a 100” players frame; the others don’t stack up IMO.

Elevate Tour is great too. A bit crisper; plays kinda like a TF40 just w/ open 16x20 instead of tight 16x19 or 18x20. No mods needed.

Used to use a CX200 Tour, but it gave me TE. Elevate isn’t as ultra controlled but the feel and comfort are worlds better. Tried a lot of 98s and the Elevate is my fav along w/ the TF40. Only problem is Tec’s QC isn’t as good as Diadem’s and they’re harder to mod bc no buttcaps.

Actually, I've changed my mind. Watching the men's AO doubles final taped, and I want Ebden's racquet. Probably an older radical. So yeah, one of those too.

Ebden uses a TGT269.1 (YouTek Instinct MP). It’s a 100” pleener; right up your alley.

 

[Pneumated1]

Probably bc of the paint. The one difference I noticed btwn UT and UP is the paint’s harder and more durable on the UP. UTs paint’s like butter; UPs more like caramelized sugar iyk what I mean. I think it changes the feel of the racket. Kinda like how all the velvet Wilsons feel kinda rubbery to me

Haven’t hit those PKs but AFAIK the Elevates are similar power/spin, more controlled on flat shots (16x20), more stable, but have better feel (it’s sth special, trust me). Regular Elevate is 61 strung, Elevate Tour is 64 strung. If you want more pocketing and don’t mind modding get the regular Elevate; I modded mine (both OG. and new FS) to 11.7-11.8oz/32cm/~325SW and they play fantastic. @Gee modded his to 12.3oz and loves em. FWIW of the sticks you mentioned the GPro is the only one I’d pick over the Elevate if you need a 100” players frame; the others don’t stack up IMO.

Elevate Tour is great too. A bit crisper; plays kinda like a TF40 just w/ open 16x20 instead of tight 16x19 or 18x20. No mods needed.

Used to use a CX200 Tour, but it gave me TE. Elevate isn’t as ultra controlled but the feel and comfort are worlds better. Tried a lot of 98s and the Elevate is my fav along w/ the TF40. Only problem is Tec’s QC isn’t as good as Diadem’s and they’re harder to mod bc no buttcaps.

Ebden uses a TGT269.1 (YouTek Instinct MP). It’s a 100” pleener; right up your alley.

Haha, Gee and I have a history of using the same racquets, so I'm not surprised. I like what I'm seeing/hearing, so I'll look into the standard Elevate 98, seriously. Btw, is there any difference at all (besides the obvious $60) between the previous and FS?

The Ebden frame comment was mostly a joke, but I do like how the ball sounds coming off his frame.

 

[BallBasher247]

Haha, Gee and I have a history of using the same racquets, so I'm not surprised. I like what I'm seeing/hearing, so I'll look into the standard Elevate 98, seriously. Btw, is there any difference at all (besides the obvious $60) between the previous and FS?

The Ebden frame comment was mostly a joke, but I do like how the ball sounds coming off his frame.

Guess the trend’s bound to continue lol

FS feels more stable so doesn’t need as much hoop wt as the OG. but the feel is almost the same…maybe FS is a little more dampened since the foam is denser. If you find an FS for cheap, get it, otherwise get the OG.

Just watched the highlights and wow that sounds good…i want one too lol

 

[Vicious49]

I did try the 360+ Prestige Pro last summer. I actually liked pretty much everything about that frame. Even some nice power to it but very controllable. Thanks for the feedback on the CX200 Tour. Useful since you're also very familiar with the UP16 and VC95.

Im familiar with all 3 as well. Actually I still currently own all 3 - although I havent played with the UP in a while. Keep in mind all of mine have various amounts of lead added to them. VC95 is the easiest to swing and comes through very fast but it lacks the feel and plow through of the other 2. The Dunlop has a very soft, almost too muted feel to it. Still, there are days I like that soft feel and the dwell time of the ball just sitting on that string bed. It also has better control than the VC95.

 

[topspn]

Haha, Gee and I have a history of using the same racquets, so I'm not surprised. I like what I'm seeing/hearing, so I'll look into the standard Elevate 98, seriously. Btw, is there any difference at all (besides the obvious $60) between the previous and FS?

The Ebden frame comment was mostly a joke, but I do like how the ball sounds coming off his frame.

Shhhh keep this a secret order the demo and if you like it and it looks in nice shape (it usually is from diadem). Reach out to them and ask if you can keep the demo and how much. They’ll give you a nice deal

 

[n8dawg6]

my 999th run with the PD may be over (again). shoulder pain. surprise!

Actually, I've changed my mind. Watching the men's AO doubles final taped, and I want Ebden's racquet. Probably an older radical. So yeah, one of those too.

i was thinking the exact same thing about that racquet. a blue radical, nirvana achieved

 

[Pneumated1]

Shhhh keep this a secret order the demo and if you like it and it looks in nice shape (it usually is from diadem). Reach out to them and ask if you can keep the demo and how much. They’ll give you a nice deal

I'll keep it just between us. Thank you!