Power Player
Bionic Poster
I had to. I hurt my wrist biking so it was due.
Diary of a Racketaholic
- Thread starter Ross K
- Start date
I had to. I hurt my wrist biking so it was due.
D
Deleted member 25923
Guest
Oh I see. Nothing wrong with it, I just found it strange. Is the wrist healing up?
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yeah, I had to go to a lighter stick and swingweight, but it is feeling good again. Thankfully. Thought I was done for a while until I went lighter.
So there's an issue...
Woke up this morning with a feeling of nagging doubt and self-recrimination not experienced since my early twenties... you know, like, when your girlfriend would go away for the weekend with her folks?... ahem...
Er, right, "my issue" with the PSTGT+... balance and weighting - it doesn't seem to quite swing so smoothly or get to the ball with the kind of fluidity - and shift into that extra gear (as PED would say), and that, for me, is very important... frames such as, say, the C10 Pro, N95, MG Pres mid, and - latterly (though it has taken me a while) - the APD, all seem to to have this quality, in my book anyhow. I thought it was the added length of the + size that was the cause, but then I was alerted to (thx H) and remembered something else of no little importance: a few years back this was one of my main gripes the the Carbon-Extreme PST :roll: ... you know what it reminds me of boys?... it's kind of like getting it together with the sister of your ex, only to be reminded of your ex by some glaring personality fault like her habitual lieing, or terrible trash TV shows that she to watch all the bloody time, or that crystal meths habit, right? ... but I digress.
("Clears throat.")
So... I keenly await arrival of my APD next week with it's Solinco Tour Bite @ 52 lbs string-job... oh yes, and I also have 3 or 4 other frames coming in and I'll need to look at; I have about 10 I need to sell; and I have to decide if I really want to chase a TF Vo2 325; oh... and do I really want to restring and revisit my first great love - the PD+?
:lol:
R.
Woke up this morning with a feeling of nagging doubt and self-recrimination not experienced since my early twenties... you know, like, when your girlfriend would go away for the weekend with her folks?... ahem...
Er, right, "my issue" with the PSTGT+... balance and weighting - it doesn't seem to quite swing so smoothly or get to the ball with the kind of fluidity - and shift into that extra gear (as PED would say), and that, for me, is very important... frames such as, say, the C10 Pro, N95, MG Pres mid, and - latterly (though it has taken me a while) - the APD, all seem to to have this quality, in my book anyhow. I thought it was the added length of the + size that was the cause, but then I was alerted to (thx H) and remembered something else of no little importance: a few years back this was one of my main gripes the the Carbon-Extreme PST :roll: ... you know what it reminds me of boys?... it's kind of like getting it together with the sister of your ex, only to be reminded of your ex by some glaring personality fault like her habitual lieing, or terrible trash TV shows that she to watch all the bloody time, or that crystal meths habit, right? ... but I digress.
("Clears throat.")
So... I keenly await arrival of my APD next week with it's Solinco Tour Bite @ 52 lbs string-job... oh yes, and I also have 3 or 4 other frames coming in and I'll need to look at; I have about 10 I need to sell; and I have to decide if I really want to chase a TF Vo2 325; oh... and do I really want to restring and revisit my first great love - the PD+?
:lol:
R.
shaysrebelII
Professional
Nice thread. I still have a lot of it left to read, but I'm loving it so far!
For me, this was the summer of racquet acquisition. It all started with two HPS 6.1 95's that I scored off of TW's retired demos program. I figured that for $150, it wasn't a bad deal. My agenda, however, was to finally, mercifully, find something that plays like my n95. The K6.1 wasn't close, the BLX6.1 was better, but still not up to snuff, so I figured going back in time might be what I needed.
So, I set about playing with the HPS 6.1's. I was off to a good start when, lo and behold, a used n95 shows up on TW's used racquets page. Eureka! I jump on the opportunity, and find myself with a backup to the racquet that I love so dearly. Wilson's awful QC is bypassed; they got it right for once, and both n95's feel the same.
Ah but alas! The racquet bug has bitten me...what to do? Fast forward to Labor Day. Those of you who don't live close to TW probably aren't familiar with the amazing sales their retail store has during this time of year. San Luis Obispo is only about 200 miles away from me, however, so off I went. Here, the virus that the racquet bug left me with morphed into a superstrain of You-Only-Live-Once-It's-Only-Money-itis, and I got a sweet deal on an APDC. My stalwart opposition to tweener racquets broken and my pockets virtually empty, I went to courts slightly dejected, but the weight of shot I achieved with the APDC quickly put a smile on my face. In addition - I'm left handed, I strung the beast with RPM Blast, and I hit every forehand crosscourt to my opponent's backhand. Needless to say, I was about four "Vamos!"es away from transforming into Rafa himself.
As good as this felt, I had decisions to make. During the school year I live in a pretty small apartment, and my roommates would not be cool with racquet clutter all over the place. Some frames would have to stay behind. The lucky ones that got to come with me are: the newly acquired APDC and my two trusty KBT's, both of whom confront my numerous affairs with other racquets with an endearing nonchalant-ness.
Now all I have left to do is actually play some tennis! I can't wait to see what this school year has to offer. Provided I'm not too swamped by the increasing demands of classes, I'll make sure to keep all of you informed on the juicy details of every swing.
For me, this was the summer of racquet acquisition. It all started with two HPS 6.1 95's that I scored off of TW's retired demos program. I figured that for $150, it wasn't a bad deal. My agenda, however, was to finally, mercifully, find something that plays like my n95. The K6.1 wasn't close, the BLX6.1 was better, but still not up to snuff, so I figured going back in time might be what I needed.
So, I set about playing with the HPS 6.1's. I was off to a good start when, lo and behold, a used n95 shows up on TW's used racquets page. Eureka! I jump on the opportunity, and find myself with a backup to the racquet that I love so dearly. Wilson's awful QC is bypassed; they got it right for once, and both n95's feel the same.
Ah but alas! The racquet bug has bitten me...what to do? Fast forward to Labor Day. Those of you who don't live close to TW probably aren't familiar with the amazing sales their retail store has during this time of year. San Luis Obispo is only about 200 miles away from me, however, so off I went. Here, the virus that the racquet bug left me with morphed into a superstrain of You-Only-Live-Once-It's-Only-Money-itis, and I got a sweet deal on an APDC. My stalwart opposition to tweener racquets broken and my pockets virtually empty, I went to courts slightly dejected, but the weight of shot I achieved with the APDC quickly put a smile on my face. In addition - I'm left handed, I strung the beast with RPM Blast, and I hit every forehand crosscourt to my opponent's backhand. Needless to say, I was about four "Vamos!"es away from transforming into Rafa himself.
As good as this felt, I had decisions to make. During the school year I live in a pretty small apartment, and my roommates would not be cool with racquet clutter all over the place. Some frames would have to stay behind. The lucky ones that got to come with me are: the newly acquired APDC and my two trusty KBT's, both of whom confront my numerous affairs with other racquets with an endearing nonchalant-ness.
Now all I have left to do is actually play some tennis! I can't wait to see what this school year has to offer. Provided I'm not too swamped by the increasing demands of classes, I'll make sure to keep all of you informed on the juicy details of every swing.
bee,
I salute your good taste Sir!... PT630 is in many ways my fave ever racket (to say it is 'good off the ground' is a bit like saying 'Shakespeare wasn't bad at writing!' Or Miles Davis could 'play a few notes!' Or Michael Jordan 'could play a bit of basketball!' ) LOL... I tried for years to get it to suit me but it was always a bit beyond my capabilities and not wholly suitable to my game. And by uncanny co-incidence: I actually checked out the Vantages too, and for the reason I thought I could find one that was similarish to a Pro Tour (you know, but like with an open pattern and a bit less demanding)... great crisp, control racket with wonderful quality build and all court excellence... just not quite what I'm looking for now, bit a lovely racket there amigo.
Shay,
Interesting and funny... I, too, keep getting these rackets just thrust upon me and through no good fault of my own!... keep the gossip coming on those numerous affairs!
R.
I salute your good taste Sir!... PT630 is in many ways my fave ever racket (to say it is 'good off the ground' is a bit like saying 'Shakespeare wasn't bad at writing!' Or Miles Davis could 'play a few notes!' Or Michael Jordan 'could play a bit of basketball!' ) LOL... I tried for years to get it to suit me but it was always a bit beyond my capabilities and not wholly suitable to my game. And by uncanny co-incidence: I actually checked out the Vantages too, and for the reason I thought I could find one that was similarish to a Pro Tour (you know, but like with an open pattern and a bit less demanding)... great crisp, control racket with wonderful quality build and all court excellence... just not quite what I'm looking for now, bit a lovely racket there amigo.
Shay,
Interesting and funny... I, too, keep getting these rackets just thrust upon me and through no good fault of my own!... keep the gossip coming on those numerous affairs!
R.
shaysrebelII
Professional
Ross,
I certainly will. Thanks for the kind words!
I certainly will. Thanks for the kind words!
HitItHarder
Semi-Pro
Well I got to take out my new (to me anyway) YT Extreme Pro yesterday for a test drive with some general practice and then two practice sets. At this point, I just don't quite know what I think. This stick reminds me of the YT Rad Pro in so many ways that I am having a hard time distinguishing between the two at this point. I need some more time with the racquet to see the differences.
The YTEP definately has a stiffer feel than the Radical Pro, but performance wise both racquets are very close. Big topspin off both wings, good stability, whippy polarized feel. Solid at the net for volleys and overheads. It also seems to have more power. I had to back off some of my strokes and I am not sure that is a good thing. All this racquet switching is causing some hitches to develop in my groundstrokes as I adjust for power and SW.
I think I need to stick to one racquet for a couple weeks to iron some of those things out. I think I am going to hit exclusively with the EP for a while and see how it goes. I should get in some good quality drilling on Tuesday, so I will report back after that. Right now, no big "wow" revelation switching between the YT Rad Pro, the APDGT and this new YT Extreme Pro.
The YTEP definately has a stiffer feel than the Radical Pro, but performance wise both racquets are very close. Big topspin off both wings, good stability, whippy polarized feel. Solid at the net for volleys and overheads. It also seems to have more power. I had to back off some of my strokes and I am not sure that is a good thing. All this racquet switching is causing some hitches to develop in my groundstrokes as I adjust for power and SW.
I think I need to stick to one racquet for a couple weeks to iron some of those things out. I think I am going to hit exclusively with the EP for a while and see how it goes. I should get in some good quality drilling on Tuesday, so I will report back after that. Right now, no big "wow" revelation switching between the YT Rad Pro, the APDGT and this new YT Extreme Pro.
ryushen21
Legend
Oh Ross..I always knew a day like this would come for you. Admittedly, I think that you may be destined to forever be a racquet journeyman never really settling down with one.
I thought, when I saw that you had gone with the MGP mid, that you were finally going to have a bit of happiness and stability in your game. I know that I have found the joy of tennis with my YTP mids.
I don't think that the previous nod for you to try out the ASTGT would be a good frame. It requires more work for less results. I found the PST much more gratifying and easier to hit with.
Nonetheless, I am thoroughly enthralled with your racquet quest. I think that if you could get your hands on a few TGK 237.1 (IIRC, that the Prestige Mid but with a 16x19 pattern) you would be quite pleased and it would be the certain end to your racquet quest. Yes, I recall your gripes about the PM being too demanding but once you dedicate youself to it and find the groove, the shots you can produce are truly amazing.
BTW, should you decide to part with any of your lovely, flexy head frames (PT630, Rad TT, etc) or even that RD7 let me know. I may be interested.
I thought, when I saw that you had gone with the MGP mid, that you were finally going to have a bit of happiness and stability in your game. I know that I have found the joy of tennis with my YTP mids.
I don't think that the previous nod for you to try out the ASTGT would be a good frame. It requires more work for less results. I found the PST much more gratifying and easier to hit with.
Nonetheless, I am thoroughly enthralled with your racquet quest. I think that if you could get your hands on a few TGK 237.1 (IIRC, that the Prestige Mid but with a 16x19 pattern) you would be quite pleased and it would be the certain end to your racquet quest. Yes, I recall your gripes about the PM being too demanding but once you dedicate youself to it and find the groove, the shots you can produce are truly amazing.
BTW, should you decide to part with any of your lovely, flexy head frames (PT630, Rad TT, etc) or even that RD7 let me know. I may be interested.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I LOLd a few times reading that one. good stuff.
Good to hear from you, my old Babolat Alliance comrade and brother in arms... greetings and salutations!... hast thou fed the horses and whipped the Wilsonian slaves this morning?!... does thy still sup thy mead tankard with a Lindsey Lohan-type enthusiasm?... hast thy wife buffed your PD+?!
Er, ok, I'll quit it there ry I think... fun to go back into all that Babolat Alliance chatter though (still probably my fave ever thread I've done on TT btw)... anyhow...The MG Pres mid is a sumptiously beautiful, sweet-swinging, perfectly balanced, nicely solid, feel-saturated, sacred frame of nirvanic wonderment!
... unfortunately it doesn't quite match my game and is generally probably to demanding for this particular aging hacker! I wish you well with it though ry... amazing racket in my estimation.For myself, all I can say is, the evidence and my instincts are all pointing me in the direction of easier to use, open pattern, more powerful, overtly b-line racks - and I'm beginning to think now, racks that are specifically whippy, more polarized, and get to the ball bloody fast!
Hit,
Keep the posts coming. I had a very minor, brief 15 minutes the other day with the MGEP... wasn't bowled over tbh... big head was a distraction, it did seem stiff and it didn't have quite so much body or whatever behind it as the APD... lovely curling topspin however and I'd imagine it serves huge... reminded me a bit of the Rad Pro also... too early by far to say anything definitive though... I'll look at it again and post my thoughts... am looking forward to getting my freshly strung APD back in hand, and weighing up whether or not to take a look at my old PD+... my PSTGT+ experiences has given me renewed appreciation of the bnefits of plus-size racks, and especially on 2hbh and serve.
PP,
Cheers, mate!
ATB,
R.
As good as this felt, I had decisions to make. During the school year I live in a pretty small apartment, and my roommates would not be cool with racquet clutter all over the place. Some frames would have to stay behind. The lucky ones that got to come with me are: the newly acquired APDC and my two trusty KBT's, both of whom confront my numerous affairs with other racquets with an endearing nonchalant-ness.
Now all I have left to do is actually play some tennis! I can't wait to see what this school year has to offer. Provided I'm not too swamped by the increasing demands of classes, I'll make sure to keep all of you informed on the juicy details of every swing.
How do you find the APDC in comparison to the KBT? Im a KBT user as well, albeit a heavily modded one (replaced leather with synthetic grip+2 og's, 6 grams 7" up handle and 9 grams at 10 and 2). The racket hits a far heavier ball than the stock version, is much more stable on the defensive and is still very manueverable. The thing i love most about the KBT is that it really feels like a 'scalpel' when im playing, which i dont get from other frames. However, lately im getting out on court less and am curious as to whether id get any benefit from a more forgiving frame. Any insight you could give me into your experience of the two frames would really help. Thanks, Josh.
parasailing
Legend
I have both of these racquets and yes I am starting to become an racketaholic
. The KBT is a lot more stable whereas the APDC is more manueverable. Slices are much easier with the APDC mainly due to a bigger head size and it is way too powerful for me as I have problems keeping the ball in the court. I am a flat ball hitter so perhaps the KBT is more suited for that.
Of course starting to become a racketaholic, these are not even my main frames I play with as I currently using several KPS 88s.
But now I am keeping my eye out for the Dunlop 4D 200 Tour and the Babolat Pure Storm Ltd GT.
I'll be stringing the APDC's higher if i do get some as i know theyre a lot more powerful. I get the feeling sometimes that im easily 'maxing out' the KBT if you know what i mean. You can take massive cuts at high balls with it that dont really have much penetration at all whereas with my k90 theyd be crushed. I think the larger head might be a bit more beneficial to me at the moment as well seeing as im not on court as much as id like so my consistancy isnt what it could be.
shaysrebelII
Professional
Howdy Josh,
I play my KBT's stock. I haven't tried any lead setups, although I have wondered about them. When I tried lead on my AG100, it totally threw me off and I haven't been able to get into a groove with that frame with or without lead since (although I admit, I haven't tried too hard.)
I've found the biggest differences between the KBT and the APDC have to do with balance and string choice. Based on your setup, it sounds like your KBT is more head-heavy than mine are, so you may not experience the balance issue. One thing I love about the KBT tho is its versatility. I've played loads of different string setups and have been able to play more or less how I want to regardless of what string I'm employing. The APDC isn't the same. This racquet is a byproduct of the modern power era. Calling it one-dimensional is too strong, and doesn't do the racquet justice. It certainly has an emphasis, however. I would advise against it if you're not a baseliner. Also, it's meant for poly. If you're into customization, this might change, but playing the APDC stock is quite a bit different from playing the KBT stock.
shaysrebelII
Professional
I have both of these racquets and yes I am starting to become an racketaholic
The KBT is a lot more stable whereas the APDC is more manueverable. Slices are much easier with the APDC mainly due to a bigger head size and it is way too powerful for me as I have problems keeping the ball in the court. I am a flat ball hitter so perhaps the KBT is more suited for that.
Of course starting to become a racketaholic, these are not even my main frames I play with as I currently using several KPS 88s.
But now I am keeping my eye out for the Dunlop 4D 200 Tour and the Babolat Pure Storm Ltd GT.
I agree that the KBT is more suited to flat hitters, but I also think its slice is better than the APDC. Maybe that's just because it's so precise. For me at least, the thickness of the APDC's beam gets in the way of slicing effectively. I've never hit with the KPS 88, but the K90 is awfully similar, and I hit amazing backhand slices with that racquet. I just assumed it was because of the way that the thin, boxed beam cuts through the air. To each their own though; if you can hit good slices with the APDC, more power to ya!
Both the Dunlop 4D 200 Tour and the PSLGT are good choices for flat hitters. In addition, I'd recommend the BLX Pro Tour. I had a fun playtest with that frame. The strings are so dense at the sweet spot that if you make clean contact you can really whale away at the ball and still have control and keep the ball in the court. It's also headlight and maneuverable enough so swinging for the fences won't tear your arm up.
Happy hitting!
Morning all!
As I'm not really able to play this week I fear , thought I'd ask just some qsns about the YTPP... APD... Extreme Pro...
In ppls opinions:
1) Which swings the easiest, smoothest, quickest, whippiest?...
2) Which serves the best (best 1st serve oomph and best action)?...
3) Which do ppl prefer for 2hbh (especially in terms of depth and heaviness)?
4)Which has the best touch?
5) Which has the best feel?
6) Which produces biggest spin?
7) Which is the least stiff?
8) Which is the most stable and solid?
9) And finally... which do ppl like the best and why?...
Cheers,
R.
As I'm not really able to play this week I fear
, thought I'd ask just some qsns about the YTPP... APD... Extreme Pro...In ppls opinions:
1) Which swings the easiest, smoothest, quickest, whippiest?...
2) Which serves the best (best 1st serve oomph and best action)?...
3) Which do ppl prefer for 2hbh (especially in terms of depth and heaviness)?
4)Which has the best touch?
5) Which has the best feel?
6) Which produces biggest spin?
7) Which is the least stiff?
8) Which is the most stable and solid?
9) And finally... which do ppl like the best and why?...
Cheers,
R.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
If you want flex and feel the Extreme Pro is not the ideal racquet.
1. ) APD
2.) Extreme - easiest for power
3 .) Extreme pro is awesome for 2hbh, but so is apd - try an open stance 2hbh when pushed wide if you need more depth on this shot. You should be able to get good depth with any stick you want, but these 2 will make it easier.
4.) ytpp
5.) ytpp
6.) APD
7.) ytpp
8.) ytpp
9.) apd - it's a classic tweener. anyone can use it. Pros use the retail (older but still)models because they are great. If I needed a fully loaded tweener, I would buy this or a PD in 2 seconds. The sweet spot is heaven. The YTPP is a very advanced and tiring racquet if you play a more modern game with heavy spin and 70- 80% baseline play. If you are more of a placement type, then the ytpp would be possible, but you should still try a lesser demanding stick.
1. ) APD
2.) Extreme - easiest for power
3 .) Extreme pro is awesome for 2hbh, but so is apd - try an open stance 2hbh when pushed wide if you need more depth on this shot. You should be able to get good depth with any stick you want, but these 2 will make it easier.
4.) ytpp
5.) ytpp
6.) APD
7.) ytpp
8.) ytpp
9.) apd - it's a classic tweener. anyone can use it. Pros use the retail (older but still)models because they are great. If I needed a fully loaded tweener, I would buy this or a PD in 2 seconds. The sweet spot is heaven. The YTPP is a very advanced and tiring racquet if you play a more modern game with heavy spin and 70- 80% baseline play. If you are more of a placement type, then the ytpp would be possible, but you should still try a lesser demanding stick.
PED
Legend
PP, not to argue but I think you would love the YTPP. It's totally different to the YTMP and it's open pattern is very spin friendly. It has the overall feel and touch of the YTRP we all used to use but it swings lighter and is MUCH more accurate.
The YTPP plays a very modern game and is easy to swing and not at all tiring. I used it and the mgpp for 18 months or so and it's a great stick. In stock form especially, it hits a much bigger ball than the apd. You really should check it out.
How are the T fibre's treating you: the specs look awesome.
The YTPP plays a very modern game and is easy to swing and not at all tiring. I used it and the mgpp for 18 months or so and it's a great stick. In stock form especially, it hits a much bigger ball than the apd. You really should check it out.
How are the T fibre's treating you: the specs look awesome.
shaysrebelII
Professional
Ross,
PP's list is a good one. I've never hit with the YTPP, and I have a one-handed backhand, so I'm not sure how much help I can be. I will say that volleys were a happy surprise with my APDC; when I looked at the specs, I figured I'd just be taking care of business from the baseline, but once it was in my hand, I didn't hesitate to come to the net. The "touch" factor you speak of leaves a little to be desired (in the way of chips, drop shots, drop volleys, etc.) but my volleys are consistently deep with the APDC.
PP's list is a good one. I've never hit with the YTPP, and I have a one-handed backhand, so I'm not sure how much help I can be. I will say that volleys were a happy surprise with my APDC; when I looked at the specs, I figured I'd just be taking care of business from the baseline, but once it was in my hand, I didn't hesitate to come to the net. The "touch" factor you speak of leaves a little to be desired (in the way of chips, drop shots, drop volleys, etc.) but my volleys are consistently deep with the APDC.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
PP, not to argue but I think you would love the YTPP. It's totally different to the YTMP and it's open pattern is very spin friendly. It has the overall feel and touch of the YTRP we all used to use but it swings lighter and is MUCH more accurate.
The YTPP plays a very modern game and is easy to swing and not at all tiring. I used it and the mgpp for 18 months or so and it's a great stick. In stock form especially, it hits a much bigger ball than the apd. You really should check it out.
How are the T fibre's treating you: the specs look awesome.
I agree the YTPP is really nice, but I am extremely suited to the Tfibre. I loved it when I bought it a year ago and should never have sold it. I was still in demo mode and thought I should try heavier sticks. It worked out for me since the 4d200 was really nice, but coming back to the 320 is like an old friend. It is just one of the best racquets I have ever played with..plain and simple. I said that in the Tfight club when I posted back in 09, and I should have just listened to myself more!! haha.
I am between western and semi, open stance, heavy forehand and my 2 hander can win me some points, but mainly sets up my forehand. So for me, the 320 is perfection. It also is my favorite racquet to serve with of any that I have ever used. The spin is an 11/10, and the grip shape has helped me get to conti real easy, which means a better net game.
I have said in other threads, the specs on this thing are perfect. Even switching to the stiffer and slightly heavier 325 gave me a different feel that I did not like as much. Now that I have my own stringing machine, the 320 is a far less expensive option then last year. I do notice more comfort with an open pattern after a year of closed.
PP,
Have to say, I do recall thinking the TF V02 320 was very nice re serve and 2hbh... PP, would you say it was quite a 'whippy' frame for fh?
PED,
Well, this frame came for me today, and as someone for whom such rackets as the PT630, MG Pres mid, Rad Tours, etc, are a kind of unsurpassable benchmark for quality build, feel and general performance, I can't deny I'm a bit excited. I just wonder though if my present desire to go the route of racks with similarish performance to the Aeropros etc, might mean I've kind of missed the boat with the PP... we'll see anyhow... btw, I like what you say (quotes and in bold!)
R.
Have to say, I do recall thinking the TF V02 320 was very nice re serve and 2hbh... PP, would you say it was quite a 'whippy' frame for fh?
PED,
Well, this frame came for me today, and as someone for whom such rackets as the PT630, MG Pres mid, Rad Tours, etc, are a kind of unsurpassable benchmark for quality build, feel and general performance, I can't deny I'm a bit excited. I just wonder though if my present desire to go the route of racks with similarish performance to the Aeropros etc, might mean I've kind of missed the boat with the PP... we'll see anyhow... btw, I like what you say (quotes and in bold!)
R.
Meaghan
Hall of Fame
Ross
just extended the Tec 325 back to its original 27.5 inches, I think either it was just short or had previously been reduced in size to standard if not a little shorter.
Ive also added about 6g @12 to up the SW. Do you know the provenence of this racket, TBH it should be about 8/9pts HL after the mods but its close to 4/5 ??
I have had several rackets that have had extreme balance deficiencies compared to stock, most somewhere close to even.
I really like this stick, in fact the balance doesnt feel problematic, it looks rather similat to berdychs racket in another TW thread I came across the other day http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=347040 and it reminds me of the older prestiges, there's something very classy about it.
Just strung it up with full Alu @ 58lbs as I have just done with one of the original Revelation Tour's, Its a beast of a racket, the original iSIS handle that looks like one of John Cauthens lead weight round the handle models, thin beamed throat, thick beamed hoop, very low flex, Im thinking its gonna have some wallop
fotos to follow tmoro.....
just extended the Tec 325 back to its original 27.5 inches, I think either it was just short or had previously been reduced in size to standard if not a little shorter.
Ive also added about 6g @12 to up the SW. Do you know the provenence of this racket, TBH it should be about 8/9pts HL after the mods but its close to 4/5 ??
I have had several rackets that have had extreme balance deficiencies compared to stock, most somewhere close to even.
I really like this stick, in fact the balance doesnt feel problematic, it looks rather similat to berdychs racket in another TW thread I came across the other day http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=347040 and it reminds me of the older prestiges, there's something very classy about it.
Just strung it up with full Alu @ 58lbs as I have just done with one of the original Revelation Tour's, Its a beast of a racket, the original iSIS handle that looks like one of John Cauthens lead weight round the handle models, thin beamed throat, thick beamed hoop, very low flex, Im thinking its gonna have some wallop
fotos to follow tmoro.....
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Ross..it can be whippy. I hit some reverse forehands tonight and also some incredibly hard flat ones. I feel like I hit some of the hardest forehands in a long time with this thing tonight. It excels when you get kicked out wide if you hit with an open stance on the wings. I hit backhand winners just going corner to corner when I was pushed wide. The reason is the extra power of the racquet just gives you a little more behind those type of shots...but you must have your shoulder rotation down and be loading off your outside leg of course.
ryushen21
Legend
PP, very interesting that you found the YTPP to be demanding and tiring. Out of the three prestiges, I found it to be the easiest to play with albeit too powerful and spin dependent for my game.
I can relate to your feelings about your frame. The YTPM allows me to hit with incredible accuracy and power but also has easy access to any shot that I could potentially want to hit. And the 2hbh dtl winners are nice too.
Ross, is that YTPMP that just came for you? I have to tell you that I really liked that frame. Just that beautiful, sweet swinging, great feeling frame. I almost went with it over the Mid but it was just that little bit of added heft and oomph that set the Mid apart.
I can relate to your feelings about your frame. The YTPM allows me to hit with incredible accuracy and power but also has easy access to any shot that I could potentially want to hit. And the 2hbh dtl winners are nice too.
Ross, is that YTPMP that just came for you? I have to tell you that I really liked that frame. Just that beautiful, sweet swinging, great feeling frame. I almost went with it over the Mid but it was just that little bit of added heft and oomph that set the Mid apart.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Ryushen, I just put a lot of spin on the ball. I just hit with a teaching pro who said that it was very heavy an he loved it. Didn't really want to change anything except have me hit more open.
Thats all well and good for me, but it takes some serious energy, so the easier the stick for my style, the better. It took me a while to learn that lesson, but I have much respect for the feel and control of the Prestige line.
Thats all well and good for me, but it takes some serious energy, so the easier the stick for my style, the better. It took me a while to learn that lesson, but I have much respect for the feel and control of the Prestige line.
parasailing
Legend
I agree that the KBT is more suited to flat hitters, but I also think its slice is better than the APDC. Maybe that's just because it's so precise. For me at least, the thickness of the APDC's beam gets in the way of slicing effectively. I've never hit with the KPS 88, but the K90 is awfully similar, and I hit amazing backhand slices with that racquet. I just assumed it was because of the way that the thin, boxed beam cuts through the air. To each their own though; if you can hit good slices with the APDC, more power to ya!
Both the Dunlop 4D 200 Tour and the PSLGT are good choices for flat hitters. In addition, I'd recommend the BLX Pro Tour. I had a fun playtest with that frame. The strings are so dense at the sweet spot that if you make clean contact you can really whale away at the ball and still have control and keep the ball in the court. It's also headlight and maneuverable enough so swinging for the fences won't tear your arm up.
Happy hitting!
Thanks for your suggestion. I can hit slices better with the APDC mainly due to the increase head size whereas my slices coming off the KPS 88 sometimes misses probably because I need to work on making better contact on a smaller racquet.
I didn't mention that I actually do have BLX Pro Tour
but I wasn't able to generate as much pace or depth with it than the KPS 88. Your suggestion on the Dunlop 4D 200 Tour and Babolat PSLGT are getting me excited about getting these two racquets:twisted:.
HitItHarder
Semi-Pro
The hitting with the YT Extreme Pro continues. I put in three solid sets of singles with this frame the other night and got some good feedback. After getting pounded in the first set, I resisted the urge to pull out the YT Rad Pro or APDGT and stuck with the EP. I was able to force a third set, but still lost the match in the end. Some observations.
I think this racquet is a legit comparable frame to the APDGT, with a little more solid feel -- at least playing both frames stock. It produces a ton of spin and is solid at the net. The extra weight seems to give it a little better plow and stability as well. However, I noticed that I was relying on that weight a little too much to create power and that I had backed off my swing to keep the ball under control. That wasn't a good thing. Later in the match, I really started swinging out on the ball more and relied on spin more to keep the ball in. The results were much better, but my margin of error in setting up and timing my shots shrunk a good bit.
The stiffness of the racquet really let me know when I was a little off and swinging out on the ball. If I took a ball too close to my body and got jammed, it did not feel good. If I really went after a first serve and got a little too much of the top of the string bed, that didn't feel good either. I was playing a pretty hard hitter with flat fast ground strokes, and it was challenging to continuously hit clean shots on the run. For the first time in quite a while, my elbow and shoulder was feeling it after the match. That is a little bit of a concern for long term use of this racquet.
The other thing is that this racquet is something of a string eater as well. While it is not on the same level as the YT Rad Pro, it isn't far behind. Because of that, I don't think I can soften up the string bed by using a multi setup. The poly mains I am using are Turbotwist, which I think is a pretty soft poly (but we are talking polys so soft is a relative term here). So the stiffness may be a deal breaker with this racquet. Only more time will tell. What I do know is there isn't enough wow factor with this racquet over the others I am hitting with to justify me risking a long term elbow or shoulder injury.
PP - I am still on the look out for a Tflight 320 VO2, but I haven't found one to hit with yet. These frames seem a little hard to come by, so I may have to break down and do a TW demo. I just hate not being able to play with strings or demo for more than a time or two before sending the frame back, but I may not have another choice if I am going to try this stick out.
ryushen21
Legend
Just curious, how did you find the softness compared between the YTPP and your Tfibre? I demoed a Tfibre a long time ago and don't really recall the feel that well except that it was a touch stiff for my liking. I have a friend who is interested in demoing a few frames and likes the specs on a couple of the Tfibres but he is definitely more into softer frames.
^^^ Hit,
Illuminating stuff H (as usual)... just my minor hit with the MG EP told me the frame was a tad stiff/harsh (albeit strung with long since dead NRG2)... I wonder if it's just 1 of those frames that might not agree with me (the HPS 6.1 leaps to mind here)... anyhow, I must resist any judgmental urges as I haven't had any real time with this racket (though I sagely noted your 'wow factor' - or lack of it - comment with a wry murmur of recognition and wistfulness that wouldn't have been lost on King Lear himself :roll: )... and a qsn for you: how did you find it on groundstroke depth and heaviness of ball?... I was surprised by the short ball I was hitting with this frame, especially on my 2hbh (though obviously aware a new string job, powerful tension, etc, will make for massive difference.)
Everyone,
('Sings the song from Annie'.)..."Tomorrow!... tomorrow!..." Er, yes, provided I can get to the courts for a couple of hours in the late morning, I plan on taking my freshly string APD and my new YT Prestige Pro... I would take my PSTGT+, however, I've become a bit frustrated by how it swings a tad lethargically (tempted actually to remove the extension... remember folks, it was originally a standard pstgt which has been, er, 'operated' on )... I've also become unfeasibly and quite unaccountably besotted with the idea of whippy, slightly polarized, topspinny, ultra-slick b-liner performance; and it's not that the PSTGT+ doesn't have some of that, rather , I just want to look for more overtly whippy, polarized, spinny frames, and the PSTGT+ is more like... as Meaghan would say, I think, more of a 'tank'... so tomorrow, barring rainstorms, or wholly unreasonable demands and encroachments upon my time (like I'm expected to be working... the very cheek of it! :evil: )... it's going to be something special, I tell you boys... the huge power and whippy spin and b-liner frame personified - the original APD, versus, the beautifully balanced and weighted, slightly pockety feeling, stunning looking and with a lineage to die for (kin racket to the great Prestiges and Head classics through the ages ) - YT PP...
Which one you putting your money on lads?
R.
Illuminating stuff H (as usual)... just my minor hit with the MG EP told me the frame was a tad stiff/harsh (albeit strung with long since dead NRG2)... I wonder if it's just 1 of those frames that might not agree with me (the HPS 6.1 leaps to mind here)... anyhow, I must resist any judgmental urges as I haven't had any real time with this racket (though I sagely noted your 'wow factor' - or lack of it - comment with a wry murmur of recognition and wistfulness that wouldn't have been lost on King Lear himself :roll: )... and a qsn for you: how did you find it on groundstroke depth and heaviness of ball?... I was surprised by the short ball I was hitting with this frame, especially on my 2hbh (though obviously aware a new string job, powerful tension, etc, will make for massive difference.)
Everyone,
('Sings the song from Annie'.)..."Tomorrow!... tomorrow!..." Er, yes, provided I can get to the courts for a couple of hours in the late morning, I plan on taking my freshly string APD and my new YT Prestige Pro... I would take my PSTGT+, however, I've become a bit frustrated by how it swings a tad lethargically (tempted actually to remove the extension... remember folks, it was originally a standard pstgt which has been, er, 'operated' on
)... I've also become unfeasibly and quite unaccountably besotted with the idea of whippy, slightly polarized, topspinny, ultra-slick b-liner performance; and it's not that the PSTGT+ doesn't have some of that, rather , I just want to look for more overtly whippy, polarized, spinny frames, and the PSTGT+ is more like... as Meaghan would say, I think, more of a 'tank'... so tomorrow, barring rainstorms, or wholly unreasonable demands and encroachments upon my time (like I'm expected to be working... the very cheek of it! :evil: )... it's going to be something special, I tell you boys... the huge power and whippy spin and b-liner frame personified - the original APD, versus, the beautifully balanced and weighted, slightly pockety feeling, stunning looking and with a lineage to die for (kin racket to the great Prestiges and Head classics through the ages ) - YT PP...Which one you putting your money on lads?
R.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
The 320 is stiffer, but not bad. It felt a lot stiffer last year when my form was not as dialed in and I was arming the ball too much. Now it feels real comfortable. I hit it with a hybrid and did not like it the first day, but after that it started to feel real plush and nice, so that is always an option for a sore arm.
I Heart Thomas Muster
Semi-Pro
The 320 is a fantastic frame. The word I would use to describe it is "lively". Has very good pop, spins the ball easily and is quite stable. It's a touch stiff for my tastes (grew up on the Pro Tour 280 and Radicals) but I could easily go to the 320 with little trouble.
My friend who I also string for has the YT Prestige Pro and 320 (three of each) and is going back and forth trying to decide which one to stick with. We've settled on RPM Blast on the 320 at 54 lbs and 51 lbs on the YT PP. He hits better with the 320 but really wants to like the Prestige as he thinks it's a true player's frame and ego can get in the way sometimes.
Not that I'm judging him as my ego can cause problems from time to time as well with my tennis game.
Oh and one more point but between my four Tecnifibre 315 02 they all weighed 12.0 oz with leather and an over grip and his three 320's two weighed 12.2 and one was 12.1 so the tolerances seemed really tight. Our Head racquets not so much.
My friend who I also string for has the YT Prestige Pro and 320 (three of each) and is going back and forth trying to decide which one to stick with. We've settled on RPM Blast on the 320 at 54 lbs and 51 lbs on the YT PP. He hits better with the 320 but really wants to like the Prestige as he thinks it's a true player's frame and ego can get in the way sometimes.
Not that I'm judging him as my ego can cause problems from time to time as well with my tennis game.
Oh and one more point but between my four Tecnifibre 315 02 they all weighed 12.0 oz with leather and an over grip and his three 320's two weighed 12.2 and one was 12.1 so the tolerances seemed really tight. Our Head racquets not so much.
Fed Kennedy
Legend
My moneys on the prestige. If you are switching frequently between racquets 100si babolat is always going to feel like hollow *hit compared to a solid players stick.
The woofer is just wierd. You gotta give it time, feel out its springy wooferness, learn to trust it, give yourself over to its inherent screen door creakiness. You need to forget about the plush thump of players racquets and understand that you are exploring the nihilistic yet bloody effective domain of the tweener. Only then will it feel right and good.
You need to be two weeks in, tied 3-3 in the third, 30-40 stretched out wide and sucking wind hitting a counterpunch fh winner from a bad position to appreciate what the apd is all about.
The quest continues Ross. Good luck!
The woofer is just wierd. You gotta give it time, feel out its springy wooferness, learn to trust it, give yourself over to its inherent screen door creakiness. You need to forget about the plush thump of players racquets and understand that you are exploring the nihilistic yet bloody effective domain of the tweener. Only then will it feel right and good.
You need to be two weeks in, tied 3-3 in the third, 30-40 stretched out wide and sucking wind hitting a counterpunch fh winner from a bad position to appreciate what the apd is all about.
The quest continues Ross. Good luck!
PED
Legend
You should copyright that: you nailed it spot on. I think that's why I've always preferred the heavier pdr's over the lighter pd's and apds: can't beat the added weight.
ryushen21
Legend
Thanks for the input. I will pass that on to my friend. I ardently tried to get him to demo the YT Mid but he wouldn't have any of it. He's looking at the YTPMP and I think will end up demoing the Tfibre 305 or 325 and Rebel 95. He plays full poly in the low 50's so I don't think the stiffness will be too much of an issue for him going on what you said.
Ross,
My money is on the prestige. Like Fed said, you will never experience the feel and response of a frame the Prestige with any Babolat (or any other tweener IMHO).
HitItHarder
Semi-Pro
Interesting story from last night. Alright, it's interesting to me -- no one else may care. But I never claimed to be Dickens or Twain spinning tales of self discovery on our little tennis forum here.
I got a call late yesterday afternoon asking me to play in a USTA league Combo match last night because one of the guys scheduled to play had a family emergency. My shoulder and arm are still a little tender from the beating they took in three sets of singles Tuesday night swinging away with the YT Extreme Pro against a hard flat hitter. So I faced the dilemma of what racquet to use. I really didn't want to use the APDGT or the YT Extreme Pro because they both are on the stiff side and I didn't want to aggravate my shoulder or elbow any more. I picked up the YT Rad Pro and hitting in warm up I realized the big swing weight wasn't giving me that warm fuzzy feeling either as my shoulder seemed to balk a little bit.
So I pulled one of my trusty old (and long neglected) MG Radical OS racquets out of my bag and decided to give it a go. With 4g of lead tape under the bumper stretching from 11 to 1, they have a SW right around 330. With the overgrip and 5gs of lead inside the buttcap they come in with a static weight at 330g as well. The balance is right at 3 pts HL and most importantly, it is the softest most flexible frame I own. Strung up with a full bed of Turbotwist 1.18 this racquet has always been a counterpunching machine.
The light weight slightly polarized setup has always allowed me to do everything well. It doesn't hit the big heavy ball of the Rad Pro. It doesn't serve as big or volley as well as the Extreme Pro. It doesn't spin as big as the APDGT. But it is solid at everything and it gives me that big sweetspot and counterpunching power of an OS frame.
Much to the chagrin (ok maybe I am trying to be Dickens) of my opponents, I played one of the best matches I have in a while. The ball off my racquet was considerably flatter switching to the denser 18x19 pattern of the Rad OS. It was fast through the court because of the easy power of the OS head. Spin was good thanks to the full poly and the comfort to swing out on my shots. My serve was solid and, while not blowing anyone off the court with aces, it was very consistent with tons of spin and kick. With volleys, which I think is the weakest part of the racquet's game, the racquet gave me enough control that I could rely on placement over power.
Most importantly, the soft flex of the frame didn't bother my elbow at all and the light weight didn't bother my shoulder or leave me with the dead arm feel late in the match.
At the end of the match, I was sitting there thinking to myself "why in the world have I been trying all these other racquets when I have always played solid tennis with this one?" I am always trying to find that "Holy Grail" of a racquet, while I have a very solid all around stick sitting in my bag the whole time.
As I have switched from racquet to racquet, my overall game has probably taken a step backwards. Each racquet I tried would improve one part of my game to the deteriment of others. I would have to adjust my swing to compensate for all these different swing weights and static weights. The power of these different racquets would require me to adjust shot angles and timing. My serve has gotten very streaky based on what raquet I was using at the time. While a couple of my regular hitting partners have improved while staying with the same racquets by just working on their game.
Is this an epiphany? Are my days as a racquetaholic number? Probably not without professional help. But it does make me think a little more that I need to settle on one racquet and get back to working on my game.
By the way, does anyone have a Tflight 320 VO2 max I can borrow?
I got a call late yesterday afternoon asking me to play in a USTA league Combo match last night because one of the guys scheduled to play had a family emergency. My shoulder and arm are still a little tender from the beating they took in three sets of singles Tuesday night swinging away with the YT Extreme Pro against a hard flat hitter. So I faced the dilemma of what racquet to use. I really didn't want to use the APDGT or the YT Extreme Pro because they both are on the stiff side and I didn't want to aggravate my shoulder or elbow any more. I picked up the YT Rad Pro and hitting in warm up I realized the big swing weight wasn't giving me that warm fuzzy feeling either as my shoulder seemed to balk a little bit.
So I pulled one of my trusty old (and long neglected) MG Radical OS racquets out of my bag and decided to give it a go. With 4g of lead tape under the bumper stretching from 11 to 1, they have a SW right around 330. With the overgrip and 5gs of lead inside the buttcap they come in with a static weight at 330g as well. The balance is right at 3 pts HL and most importantly, it is the softest most flexible frame I own. Strung up with a full bed of Turbotwist 1.18 this racquet has always been a counterpunching machine.
The light weight slightly polarized setup has always allowed me to do everything well. It doesn't hit the big heavy ball of the Rad Pro. It doesn't serve as big or volley as well as the Extreme Pro. It doesn't spin as big as the APDGT. But it is solid at everything and it gives me that big sweetspot and counterpunching power of an OS frame.
Much to the chagrin (ok maybe I am trying to be Dickens) of my opponents, I played one of the best matches I have in a while. The ball off my racquet was considerably flatter switching to the denser 18x19 pattern of the Rad OS. It was fast through the court because of the easy power of the OS head. Spin was good thanks to the full poly and the comfort to swing out on my shots. My serve was solid and, while not blowing anyone off the court with aces, it was very consistent with tons of spin and kick. With volleys, which I think is the weakest part of the racquet's game, the racquet gave me enough control that I could rely on placement over power.
Most importantly, the soft flex of the frame didn't bother my elbow at all and the light weight didn't bother my shoulder or leave me with the dead arm feel late in the match.
At the end of the match, I was sitting there thinking to myself "why in the world have I been trying all these other racquets when I have always played solid tennis with this one?" I am always trying to find that "Holy Grail" of a racquet, while I have a very solid all around stick sitting in my bag the whole time.
As I have switched from racquet to racquet, my overall game has probably taken a step backwards. Each racquet I tried would improve one part of my game to the deteriment of others. I would have to adjust my swing to compensate for all these different swing weights and static weights. The power of these different racquets would require me to adjust shot angles and timing. My serve has gotten very streaky based on what raquet I was using at the time. While a couple of my regular hitting partners have improved while staying with the same racquets by just working on their game.
Is this an epiphany? Are my days as a racquetaholic number? Probably not without professional help. But it does make me think a little more that I need to settle on one racquet and get back to working on my game.
By the way, does anyone have a Tflight 320 VO2 max I can borrow?
shaysrebelII
Professional
Interesting story from last night. Alright, it's interesting to me -- no one else may care. But I never claimed to be Dickens or Twain spinning tales of self discovery on our little tennis forum here.
I got a call late yesterday afternoon asking me to play in a USTA league Combo match last night because one of the guys scheduled to play had a family emergency. My shoulder and arm are still a little tender from the beating they took in three sets of singles Tuesday night swinging away with the YT Extreme Pro against a hard flat hitter. So I faced the dilemma of what racquet to use. I really didn't want to use the APDGT or the YT Extreme Pro because they both are on the stiff side and I didn't want to aggravate my shoulder or elbow any more. I picked up the YT Rad Pro and hitting in warm up I realized the big swing weight wasn't giving me that warm fuzzy feeling either as my shoulder seemed to balk a little bit.
So I pulled one of my trusty old (and long neglected) MG Radical OS racquets out of my bag and decided to give it a go. With 4g of lead tape under the bumper stretching from 11 to 1, they have a SW right around 330. With the overgrip and 5gs of lead inside the buttcap they come in with a static weight at 330g as well. The balance is right at 3 pts HL and most importantly, it is the softest most flexible frame I own. Strung up with a full bed of Turbotwist 1.18 this racquet has always been a counterpunching machine.
The light weight slightly polarized setup has always allowed me to do everything well. It doesn't hit the big heavy ball of the Rad Pro. It doesn't serve as big or volley as well as the Extreme Pro. It doesn't spin as big as the APDGT. But it is solid at everything and it gives me that big sweetspot and counterpunching power of an OS frame.
Much to the chagrin (ok maybe I am trying to be Dickens) of my opponents, I played one of the best matches I have in a while. The ball off my racquet was considerably flatter switching to the denser 18x19 pattern of the Rad OS. It was fast through the court because of the easy power of the OS head. Spin was good thanks to the full poly and the comfort to swing out on my shots. My serve was solid and, while not blowing anyone off the court with aces, it was very consistent with tons of spin and kick. With volleys, which I think is the weakest part of the racquet's game, the racquet gave me enough control that I could rely on placement over power.
Most importantly, the soft flex of the frame didn't bother my elbow at all and the light weight didn't bother my shoulder or leave me with the dead arm feel late in the match.
At the end of the match, I was sitting there thinking to myself "why in the world have I been trying all these other racquets when I have always played solid tennis with this one?" I am always trying to find that "Holy Grail" of a racquet, while I have a very solid all around stick sitting in my bag the whole time.
As I have switched from racquet to racquet, my overall game has probably taken a step backwards. Each racquet I tried would improve one part of my game to the deteriment of others. I would have to adjust my swing to compensate for all these different swing weights and static weights. The power of these different racquets would require me to adjust shot angles and timing. My serve has gotten very streaky based on what raquet I was using at the time. While a couple of my regular hitting partners have improved while staying with the same racquets by just working on their game.
Is this an epiphany? Are my days as a racquetaholic number? Probably not without professional help. But it does make me think a little more that I need to settle on one racquet and get back to working on my game.
By the way, does anyone have a Tflight 320 VO2 max I can borrow?
The bolded part pretty much summarizes this entire thread haha.
Interesting story. I must confess, I do like your attempt at Dickens.
Interesting story from last night. Alright, it's interesting to me -- no one else may care. But I never claimed to be Dickens or Twain spinning tales of self discovery on our little tennis forum here.
I got a call late yesterday afternoon asking me to play in a USTA league Combo match last night because one of the guys scheduled to play had a family emergency. My shoulder and arm are still a little tender from the beating they took in three sets of singles Tuesday night swinging away with the YT Extreme Pro against a hard flat hitter. So I faced the dilemma of what racquet to use. I really didn't want to use the APDGT or the YT Extreme Pro because they both are on the stiff side and I didn't want to aggravate my shoulder or elbow any more. I picked up the YT Rad Pro and hitting in warm up I realized the big swing weight wasn't giving me that warm fuzzy feeling either as my shoulder seemed to balk a little bit.
So I pulled one of my trusty old (and long neglected) MG Radical OS racquets out of my bag and decided to give it a go. With 4g of lead tape under the bumper stretching from 11 to 1, they have a SW right around 330. With the overgrip and 5gs of lead inside the buttcap they come in with a static weight at 330g as well. The balance is right at 3 pts HL and most importantly, it is the softest most flexible frame I own. Strung up with a full bed of Turbotwist 1.18 this racquet has always been a counterpunching machine.
The light weight slightly polarized setup has always allowed me to do everything well. It doesn't hit the big heavy ball of the Rad Pro. It doesn't serve as big or volley as well as the Extreme Pro. It doesn't spin as big as the APDGT. But it is solid at everything and it gives me that big sweetspot and counterpunching power of an OS frame.
Much to the chagrin (ok maybe I am trying to be Dickens) of my opponents, I played one of the best matches I have in a while. The ball off my racquet was considerably flatter switching to the denser 18x19 pattern of the Rad OS. It was fast through the court because of the easy power of the OS head. Spin was good thanks to the full poly and the comfort to swing out on my shots. My serve was solid and, while not blowing anyone off the court with aces, it was very consistent with tons of spin and kick. With volleys, which I think is the weakest part of the racquet's game, the racquet gave me enough control that I could rely on placement over power.
Most importantly, the soft flex of the frame didn't bother my elbow at all and the light weight didn't bother my shoulder or leave me with the dead arm feel late in the match.
At the end of the match, I was sitting there thinking to myself "why in the world have I been trying all these other racquets when I have always played solid tennis with this one?" I am always trying to find that "Holy Grail" of a racquet, while I have a very solid all around stick sitting in my bag the whole time.
As I have switched from racquet to racquet, my overall game has probably taken a step backwards. Each racquet I tried would improve one part of my game to the deteriment of others. I would have to adjust my swing to compensate for all these different swing weights and static weights. The power of these different racquets would require me to adjust shot angles and timing. My serve has gotten very streaky based on what raquet I was using at the time. While a couple of my regular hitting partners have improved while staying with the same racquets by just working on their game.
Is this an epiphany? Are my days as a racquetaholic number? Probably not without professional help. But it does make me think a little more that I need to settle on one racquet and get back to working on my game.
By the way, does anyone have a Tflight 320 VO2 max I can borrow?
Ha ha - LOL!... too funny Hit!:lol:
Hey Ross, looks like you have similar test racquets to me right now - BLX 95 16x19 and YTPP - and similar history from our old Bab PST discussions.
I've tried the PSTGT but it just doesn't feel right, it seems to have become a little slugish with the GT version. The BLX hits a heavy feeling ball, but I've found some arm pain after a few long sets, and interestingly two different hitting partners indicated the ball from the YTPP was harder and more spin laden than BLX. BLX seemed to serve with a little more pace though, but for every other shot the YTPP is lovely thing to use, and I'm hoping the serve pace will come (signs already).
So I'm guessing you're going to like the PP, and much as I enjoy trying different racquets, i think I've found my new acquisition...
I've tried the PSTGT but it just doesn't feel right, it seems to have become a little slugish with the GT version. The BLX hits a heavy feeling ball, but I've found some arm pain after a few long sets, and interestingly two different hitting partners indicated the ball from the YTPP was harder and more spin laden than BLX. BLX seemed to serve with a little more pace though, but for every other shot the YTPP is lovely thing to use, and I'm hoping the serve pace will come (signs already).
So I'm guessing you're going to like the PP, and much as I enjoy trying different racquets, i think I've found my new acquisition...
Fed Kennedy
Legend
To the growing legion of us who wish to split the difference between hollow tweenerism and outright player stick masochism...what is the verdict on the Prince graphite exo 100? The spec is very intriguing. I dont like ports but there is a tight grommet kit. Flex is low, sweetspot and headsize is good. Can it compete?
dgoran
Hall of Fame
Hi Ross
Just checking in as per your request
I keep coming back to PT 630 no matter what racket I try. I came to the conclusion that as long as my ideal balance is there for One Hander IMHO is 31.5cm I can play with nearly any racket. I have leaded my PD team Swirly to 335gr but had identical balance as my pt630 I can nearly switch between them w/o too much of a difference. After a long long experiment I am seriously about to conclude that balance is what matters not racket.
I do however prefer plush comfy feel pf pt630 so if someone put a gun to my head asking me to choose one stick for the rest of my life It would be PT630. But guess what no one is putting guns to my head so I will continue to enjoy different rackets. I am not playing for money after all
Just checking in as per your request
I keep coming back to PT 630 no matter what racket I try. I came to the conclusion that as long as my ideal balance is there for One Hander IMHO is 31.5cm I can play with nearly any racket. I have leaded my PD team Swirly to 335gr but had identical balance as my pt630 I can nearly switch between them w/o too much of a difference. After a long long experiment I am seriously about to conclude that balance is what matters not racket.
I do however prefer plush comfy feel pf pt630 so if someone put a gun to my head asking me to choose one stick for the rest of my life It would be PT630. But guess what no one is putting guns to my head so I will continue to enjoy different rackets. I am not playing for money after all
Fed,
Re Exo 100 Graphite - yet another racket that has slightly interested me, although not enough to go and check it out... huge topspin apparently... I'd imagine a bit in the Rad Pro kind of ball-park but I could be wrong... others please chime in and help out our, er, racketaholic colleague (lol!)...
dgoran,
Very interesting re having an ideal balance... I don't know what mine is exactly... but, yes, perhaps I should? Re the PT630, I've written fairly extensively about this over the years, but for money, re off the ground performance and quality build, it's the numero uno... (btw dg, please see bottom paragraph re YT PP.)
Ross C,
Re the BLX 95... well, I was big fan (and intermittent user) of the N95, so presume I'd probably like it. However, my tastes have changed lately and this kind of 'tank'-like frame is not to my present taste so much. And, having hit with it now for a while, I sort of feel the same re the PSTGT+ (though it has a multitude of very appealing qualities)... it has taken me a few weeks to work it out, but it is indeed a tad sluggish for me, and more a tank, when what I want is whippy, more polarized, easier to use.
Everyone,
I sit here writing this with my YT Prestige Pro propped up by the window close by, beckoning me, with its ridiculously gorgeous gleaming claret pj... "But of course!... What did you expect?"... "Come on, surely you must have known?"... it's as if the thing can speak, I swear to God...
(To be continued.) :wink:
R.
Re Exo 100 Graphite - yet another racket that has slightly interested me, although not enough to go and check it out... huge topspin apparently... I'd imagine a bit in the Rad Pro kind of ball-park but I could be wrong... others please chime in and help out our, er, racketaholic colleague (lol!)...
dgoran,
Very interesting re having an ideal balance... I don't know what mine is exactly... but, yes, perhaps I should? Re the PT630, I've written fairly extensively about this over the years, but for money, re off the ground performance and quality build, it's the numero uno... (btw dg, please see bottom paragraph re YT PP.)
Ross C,
Re the BLX 95... well, I was big fan (and intermittent user) of the N95, so presume I'd probably like it. However, my tastes have changed lately and this kind of 'tank'-like frame is not to my present taste so much. And, having hit with it now for a while, I sort of feel the same re the PSTGT+ (though it has a multitude of very appealing qualities)... it has taken me a few weeks to work it out, but it is indeed a tad sluggish for me, and more a tank, when what I want is whippy, more polarized, easier to use.
Everyone,
I sit here writing this with my YT Prestige Pro propped up by the window close by, beckoning me, with its ridiculously gorgeous gleaming claret pj... "But of course!... What did you expect?"... "Come on, surely you must have known?"... it's as if the thing can speak, I swear to God...
(To be continued.) :wink:
R.
Yeah,I know it makes no difference to how it plays but the overall finnish and style of the YTPP is very nice....and when you play with it
Re the Exo 100 - tried one a year or so ago (and recently the Exo 3 Black) and remember it being generally 'nice' but not better all round than my PST at the time. Good spin but some muted feel from the ports.
Re the Exo 100 - tried one a year or so ago (and recently the Exo 3 Black) and remember it being generally 'nice' but not better all round than my PST at the time. Good spin but some muted feel from the ports.
For real dg?:shock:... next thing you'll be telling me the PT630 served with more oomph? :wink:
R.
Meaghan
Hall of Fame
Hey Ross the YTK PP spec seems similar to the older Tec 325 you sent me but with the open string pattern you wanted.
I had a little hit wth the Tec today and found it very HEAD like but had that softer older feel with the 59ra flex.
How do you find the so called whippier frames when like the ytkpp has a flex of 66 ??
For me low flex helps as with my superlongs. Id be interested in seeing how you feel about the old Revelations, in fact if I cut off an inch off mine I think you'd fall in love mate.
I had a little hit wth the Tec today and found it very HEAD like but had that softer older feel with the 59ra flex.
How do you find the so called whippier frames when like the ytkpp has a flex of 66 ??
For me low flex helps as with my superlongs. Id be interested in seeing how you feel about the old Revelations, in fact if I cut off an inch off mine I think you'd fall in love mate.
