help me overthink my future hdx/velocity hybrid tensions

[ByeByePoly]

I like fb Head Velocity 16g natural (you think ), and fb tecnifibre hdx tour 16g natural (based on 6 hours of play). In a couple of weeks, I am going to find out if these two great tastes taste great together. I don't have that much experience with hybrids ... so tapping the tt hybrid string scientists for input here.

My intention is hdx mains, and velocity crosses. HDX is less muted than Velocity, and probably a bit more durable (haven't proved that yet), and holds tension slightly better (both great) ... so everything points me to using hdx in the mains. If I don't love the hdx/v hybrid, might follow with a v/hdx test. Also, V is slicker than hdx ... so that makes me suspect it will be the better cross than hdx (probably marginally ... both good for a multi I assume).

the data ... @Traffic and @esgee48 will require the data:

Note: all 16g natural

- HDX @55 LO, @53 RT off stringer settled @50.5ish
- V @55 LO, @51 RT off stringer settled @47
- V @52 LO, settled @45

- V strung @52 fb is perfect for me, and HDX @55 turned out to be pretty close after breaking in after a hit or two.

- with fb multi, I get it strung 1 piece same tension. I am more interested in consistent string bed play than any additional snapback/spin. Interested in both, but err towards consistent.

- the only hybrid I have tried recently is v/cream ... once at 52/48 (too powerful) ... and v/cream 55/50 ... about right.

My thinking with hdx/v is either:
1) have both settle to around same tension ... or
2) have the V settle a couple of lbs less than hdx settled tension... maybe a little add in spin, maybe main durability ??

I assume since hdx 55 is about right, and v 52 is perfect, that hdx/v 55/52 would be about right. But since V will settle a little more, and I'm looking to keep any settled difference within a couple of lbs of each other, I'm leaning toward stringing both hdx and v at the same tension. The v will settle a little lower (in theory) and end up at the couple of lbs difference.

Based on "the data" :

hdx/v 52/52 should be too powerful
hdx/v 55/55 should be too little power

I guess that leaves 53/53 ... or 54/54... and I lean towards 53/53 to err towards arm friendly.

I guess that is the other bit of info/data. My post TE elbow is always happy with fb V ... but notices the poly part of HDX. After hdx breakin, it got comfortable and actually felt great. So I am really seeking max V arm friendly ... plus HDX feel (muting the mute). This may, in the end, lead to v/hdx ... but hope not, would rather get lucky with this first test.

So in this over-thinking exercise, I come up with 53/53 ... even thinking about 52/52 and hoping the V lower power turns 52/52 in to a very comfortable control setup.

Oh ... throw in one other thing @esgee48 has stuck in my brain with a comment in another thread. He mentioned that a cross tensioned higher than main could support the main and keep it from losing it's normal tension loss. That actually makes sense to me. It also makes sense if you cross with a string that holds tension well, it would also prevent main tension loss. For example, Cream is good at holding tension, and many polys are not (like losing 50%). If you strung Cream as a cross (maybe with higher tension) with a main that would normally lose a lot of tension, does it help retain more of the main tension over the life of the stringbed? To me, this would matter more with a v/hdx setup. I find fb v @52 about perfect, but that is based on the fact it will settle 45ish (at least with my RT string factor ??). I would think v/hdx 52/52 would be too much power because of the added hdx power @52, but hdx loses very little tension. As a cross to V mains, would that keep V from going to 45ish ... maybe it settles a couple of pounds higher.

I told you there would be some overthinking going on.... but tt is slow (not talking server) ... and the string scientists need a project.

Turn this thread into a good discussion about hybrids, pairing strings, and tensions ... and then the overthinking will have been useful.

 

[LocNetMonster]

HDX in the mains at 62# and Velocity in the crosses at 50#.

 

[Aitkers]

HDX in the mains at 62# and Velocity in the crosses at 50#.

To the point

 

[scotus]

HDX Tour holds tension far better than Cream.

 

[scotus]

Let HDX Tour sit for a few days after stringing to get the poly stiffness out. You might even want to loan the racquet to your partner for 20 minutes.

Then it's a comfortable ride for you all the way.

 

[ByeByePoly]

HDX in the mains at 62# and Velocity in the crosses at 50#.

Oops ... forgot part of my "data". I lost 8 months of tennis (playing matches) due to TE from too many years with poly (RPM Blast). Hence the multis ... and my rule that I won't string any string above mid-tension (55 on my V1 Pros). That said ... over 40+ years of tennis never liked tensions near 60. I was mid-tension or lower during syn gut and wilson sensation years.

 

[ByeByePoly]

Let HDX Tour sit for a few days after stringing to get the poly stiffness out. You might even want to loan the racquet to your partner for 20 minutes.

Then it's a comfortable ride for you all the way.

By chance, did not hit for 5 days after stringing. It still took a hit or two to break in ... then it got really GOOD.

 

[ByeByePoly]

HDX Tour holds tension far better than Cream.

I only have 6 hours, but good might be an understatement. It didn't drop any in last 4.5 hours. V does that also, but takes a few more hours to settle ... and a little more.

I only tested fb Cream once, and cut it out after 6 hours. At 6 hours, it was exactly what it was off the stringer. My thought at the time was ... wow.

 

[scotus]

I only have 6 hours, but good might be an understatement. It didn't drop any in last 4.5 hours. V does that also, but takes a few more hours to settle ... and a little more.

I only tested fb Cream once, and cut it out after 6 hours. At 6 hours, it was exactly what it was off the stringer. My thought at the time was ... wow.

Well, HDX Tour holds tension better than even some natural gut.

 

[esgee48]

You really are overthinking this. HDX/V could be easily done at 55/52 or 55/53 or 55/51. You will get most of your feel from the mains and let that be your priority. The mains have to settle, so you do not want the crosses to be tighter than the mains. At the same time, as the strings settle, you want to maintain some differential between mains and crosses. Any of the 3 combos could work, but I would choose 55/53. You know HDX will have less tension loss [I think] so you need to keep the V up there at a higher tension to start to help the HDX hold its tension. V will settle eventually to what ever HDX will let it get to. 3 cents.

If your priority was more spin, then I probably would suggest 55/51 and not worry about where V ends up. I don't recall the numbers re stiffness and tension loss, but would Spiral Tech 16 be a decent cross for you? Another good cross would be ZX 16 if you are looking for spin.

 

[ByeByePoly]

Let HDX Tour sit for a few days after stringing to get the poly stiffness out. You might even want to loan the racquet to your partner for 20 minutes.

Then it's a comfortable ride for you all the way.

Velocity didn't require a break in for me, was good to go off the stringer. My guess is crossing hdx with v will reduce/eliminate most of break in. Once I get to ball machine weather, I would just go hit 2hbhs for 30+ minutes.

 

[ByeByePoly]

You really are overthinking this. HDX/V could be easily done at 55/52 or 55/53 or 55/51. You will get most of your feel from the mains and let that be your priority. The mains have to settle, so you do not want the crosses to be tighter than the mains. At the same time, as the strings settle, you want to maintain some differential between mains and crosses. Any of the 3 combos could work, but I would choose 55/53. You know HDX will have less tension loss [I think] so you need to keep the V up there at a higher tension to start to help the HDX hold its tension. V will settle eventually to what ever HDX will let it get to. 3 cents.

If your priority was more spin, then I probably would suggest 55/51 and not worry about where V ends up. I don't recall the numbers re stiffness and tension loss, but would Spiral Tech 16 be a decent cross for you? Another good cross would be ZX 16 if you are looking for spin.

Yeah ... the thread title was accurate.

I have 5 sets of hdx, and 3.5 v ... some combo of the two will be it for a while.

"You know HDX will have less tension loss [I think] so you need to keep the V up there at a higher tension to start to help the HDX hold its tension. V will settle eventually to what ever HDX will let it get to."

With hdx/v ... since v drops faster, I assumed hdx is on it's own. No wonder some avoid hybrids ... it's UNKNOWABLE.

 

[ByeByePoly]

@esgee48 ...

More hybrid pondering:

Tension loss numbers are a fb measurement, not how they perform in a hybrid.

So assume:
- fb hdx strung @55 settles @50
- fb v strung @55 settles @47

Now assume hdx/v 55/55:
- I would expect the hdx main to settle less than 50, because a v cross has more tension loss than the hdx cross in fb hdx
- I would expect the V would settle higher than the 47, because it now working hdx mains

Maybe a 10% loss main and a 15% loss cross tends to split the difference, both 12-13% loss.

Using a bigger difference, say a poly main 50ish loss, hybrided (is that a word?) with a 10ish loss cross ... both meet at 30ish loss.

hehehe ...

 

[esgee48]

Not sure what you are musing about. They will both eventually settle to the same tension; how fast they get there is related to their stiffness and tension holding capability. It may take a while, but they need to since the strings are in contact. First the HDX will stretch more initially since it is in the mains, then the V will stretch more as the HDX drops below the V, and back and forth until they stretch somewhat equally for each ball impact. [Not really true, but close enough.] If one string is better at holding tension, then it will take longer to get to the same tension as the one that is not so good at holding tension. But the 'better' string will do more of the 'work' until the strings start to react equally.

You're thinking 'What about NG/poly?' Same principles apply, but it takes a long time for the NG to drop tension unless you are a hard hitter. If you are a really hard hitter, the poly is going to lose tension from the 1st initial hits and will not recover that tension as well as NG. So the NG does more and more of the work as the bed ages. That's not good because you end up with an uneven performing string bed. 'Uneven performance' could be the name of a band or our motto. [Also why I prefer NG/SG hybrids.]

 

[Hmgraphite1]

Sorry in advance if this has already been covered (great if someone can send me to a link)
So I string my mains at 55 then when I weave through the crosses the mains get tighter by forcing to cover a longer distance, the crosses are set at the tension being set. This is more noticeable with stiffer strings because they stretch less per pound. ?? Am I missing something here?

 

[LocNetMonster]

That said ... over 40+ years of tennis never liked tensions near 60. I was mid-tension or lower during syn gut and wilson sensation years.

What's the static weight on your stick and what size head? Actually, I should have asked that first.

 

[ByeByePoly]

Not sure what you are musing about. They will both eventually settle to the same tension; how fast they get there is related to their stiffness and tension holding capability. It may take a while, but they need to since the strings are in contact. First the HDX will stretch more initially since it is in the mains, then the V will stretch more as the HDX drops below the V, and back and forth until they stretch somewhat equally for each ball impact. [Not really true, but close enough.] If one string is better at holding tension, then it will take longer to get to the same tension as the one that is not so good at holding tension. But the 'better' string will do more of the 'work' until the strings start to react equally.

You're thinking 'What about NG/poly?' Same principles apply, but it takes a long time for the NG to drop tension unless you are a hard hitter. If you are a really hard hitter, the poly is going to lose tension from the 1st initial hits and will not recover that tension as well as NG. So the NG does more and more of the work as the bed ages. That's not good because you end up with an uneven performing string bed. 'Uneven performance' could be the name of a band or our motto. [Also why I prefer NG/SG hybrids.]

I am musing because I don't want to have to waste string trying a lot of different tensions. Also ... I feel the poly in hdx "some" ... and like the idea of going as low as I can with hdx and adding the control in with the v. That's why 53/53 sounds better to me then 55/51... but I'm guessing.

 

[ByeByePoly]

What's the static weight on your stick and what size head? Actually, I should have asked that first.

My two v1 pros ... 11.4 to 11.6, ra 68, 99.5, 3-5ish hl.

To me, the best basis to guess my first hdx/v tension is what I like fb:
- fb v @52 ... played with this all 2017
- fb hdx @55 ... about right, same power as v @52

So I know hdx is more powerful than v, and I know what tensions I like both strings in fb.

52-55 ... is likely my hdx/v range.

 

[esgee48]

Sorry in advance if this has already been covered (great if someone can send me to a link)
So I string my mains at 55 then when I weave through the crosses the mains get tighter by forcing to cover a longer distance, the crosses are set at the tension being set. This is more noticeable with stiffer strings because they stretch less per pound. ?? Am I missing something here?

After you clamp off on your mains they start to relax and lose tension. Happens all the time. When you install the crosses, the mains start to increase their tension again, but only up to what tension is in the crosses, probably less because the crosses almost never get to ref tension across the string due to inter string friction. You need to pull longer and move the crosses several times to remove the friction component.

If you string mains much tighter than crosses, their relaxed tension could still be higher then the ref tension in your crosses. Then you will see the cross go up and down instead of what you propose. This is a hidden secret as to why you need larger differentials between mains and crosses for normal string types if you want to maintain the differential.

 

[esgee48]

BBP: Your personal stringer uses a LO, right? If he had an CP, I would say go with your settled tensions + 2#. The main issue I always have with LO vs CP is the string friction between mains and crosses. With CP, I can really minimize it since I pull for long periods at ref. Hard to do with LO. Since this will be your 1st attempt, you should go slightly tighter and do a Traffic Step if the strings are too tight.

 

[Hmgraphite1]

When you install the crosses, the mains start to increase their tension again, but only up to what tension is in the crosses.

Why is the increase limited by the cross tension. Seems the mains increase should be directly related to the string characteristics elongation per lb and displacements for each cross weave.?

 

[Shroud]

I like fb Head Velocity 16g natural (you think ), and fb tecnifibre hdx tour 16g natural (based on 6 hours of play). In a couple of weeks, I am going to find out if these two great tastes taste great together. I don't have that much experience with hybrids ... so tapping the tt hybrid string scientists for input here.

My intention is hdx mains, and velocity crosses. HDX is less muted than Velocity, and probably a bit more durable (haven't proved that yet), and holds tension slightly better (both great) ... so everything points me to using hdx in the mains. If I don't love the hdx/v hybrid, might follow with a v/hdx test. Also, V is slicker than hdx ... so that makes me suspect it will be the better cross than hdx (probably marginally ... both good for a multi I assume).

the data ... @Traffic and @esgee48 will require the data:

Note: all 16g natural

- HDX @55 LO, @53 RT off stringer settled @50.5ish
- V @55 LO, @51 RT off stringer settled @47
- V @52 LO, settled @45

- V strung @52 fb is perfect for me, and HDX @55 turned out to be pretty close after breaking in after a hit or two.

- with fb multi, I get it strung 1 piece same tension. I am more interested in consistent string bed play than any additional snapback/spin. Interested in both, but err towards consistent.

- the only hybrid I have tried recently is v/cream ... once at 52/48 (too powerful) ... and v/cream 55/50 ... about right.

My thinking with hdx/v is either:
1) have both settle to around same tension ... or
2) have the V settle a couple of lbs less than hdx settled tension... maybe a little add in spin, maybe main durability ??

I assume since hdx 55 is about right, and v 52 is perfect, that hdx/v 55/52 would be about right. But since V will settle a little more, and I'm looking to keep any settled difference within a couple of lbs of each other, I'm leaning toward stringing both hdx and v at the same tension. The v will settle a little lower (in theory) and end up at the couple of lbs difference.

Based on "the data" :

hdx/v 52/52 should be too powerful
hdx/v 55/55 should be too little power

I guess that leaves 53/53 ... or 54/54... and I lean towards 53/53 to err towards arm friendly.

I guess that is the other bit of info/data. My post TE elbow is always happy with fb V ... but notices the poly part of HDX. After hdx breakin, it got comfortable and actually felt great. So I am really seeking max V arm friendly ... plus HDX feel (muting the mute). This may, in the end, lead to v/hdx ... but hope not, would rather get lucky with this first test.

So in this over-thinking exercise, I come up with 53/53 ... even thinking about 52/52 and hoping the V lower power turns 52/52 in to a very comfortable control setup.

Oh ... throw in one other thing @esgee48 has stuck in my brain with a comment in another thread. He mentioned that a cross tensioned higher than main could support the main and keep it from losing it's normal tension loss. That actually makes sense to me. It also makes sense if you cross with a string that holds tension well, it would also prevent main tension loss. For example, Cream is good at holding tension, and many polys are not (like losing 50%). If you strung Cream as a cross (maybe with higher tension) with a main that would normally lose a lot of tension, does it help retain more of the main tension over the life of the stringbed? To me, this would matter more with a v/hdx setup. I find fb v @52 about perfect, but that is based on the fact it will settle 45ish (at least with my RT string factor ??). I would think v/hdx 52/52 would be too much power because of the added hdx power @52, but hdx loses very little tension. As a cross to V mains, would that keep V from going to 45ish ... maybe it settles a couple of pounds higher.

I told you there would be some overthinking going on.... but tt is slow (not talking server) ... and the string scientists need a project.

Turn this thread into a good discussion about hybrids, pairing strings, and tensions ... and then the overthinking will have been useful.

Dude i already gave you the answer months ago....

 

[esgee48]

Why is the increase limited by the cross tension. Seems the mains increase should be directly related to the string characteristics elongation per lb and displacements for each cross weave.?

You cannot put more tension on any string than what is pulled on the cross. The 1st few crosses have no problem moving the mains up and down. As you go down the frame, it gets harder and harder to displace those mains if they are above or near the tension of the cross. If they are below the cross tension, then the cross will move the mains. If the mains are above the tension of the cross because they have not relaxed or are slightly above the crosses, the cross will not move the mains. You cannot push mains strung at 55# to 59# when doing crosses at 55#.

 

[Hmgraphite1]

You cannot put more tension on any string than what is pulled on the cross.. You cannot push mains strung at 55# to 59# when doing crosses at 55#.

But when I look at the weave the mains aren't straight they go up and down around the crosses. So they are being tensioned beyound where they were set, no?

 

[LocNetMonster]

My two v1 pros ... 11.4 to 11.6, ra 68, 99.5, 3-5ish hl.

To me, the best basis to guess my first hdx/v tension is what I like fb:
- fb v @52 ... played with this all 2017
- fb hdx @55 ... about right, same power as v @52

Thanks. My revised recommendation is 58 on the mains and 50 on the crosses. You have two sticks so you can try them side by side. Do one at 53/53, which you wrote earlier sounds better to you and play it side by side with the 55/51 suggested above. I'm almost sure you'll like second one better, especially if you have a decent first serve. If you like 55/51 and works for you, try my suggested numbers. You will have to swing out a little more, but you'll generate more top spin. When you opponent tells you that your balls seem to have a little more kick to them, you know you are zeroing in on your magic numbers.

 

[ByeByePoly]

Dude i already gave you the answer months ago....

Hard to trust the judgement of the vision impaired.

Tell you what ... IF:
- there is another life
- there is tennis in that other life
- both of us are in that other life, and I run into you with a fresh elbow

I will try Kevlar for you.

Edit: and if there is a 3rd life with cheap racquets, I will try 20lbs+ difference between mains and crosses.

 

[Shroud]

Hard to trust the judgement of the vision impaired.

Tell you what ... IF:
- there is another life
- there is tennis in that other life
- both of us are in that other life, and I run into you with a fresh elbow

I will try Kevlar for you.

Edit: and if there is a 3rd life with cheap racquets, I will try 20lbs+ difference between mains and crosses.

If i had anykind of normal racquet around here I would send you one strung. They are all short, heavy or stiff. Yikes my racquets are just like me. They racquets are just like me

 

[ByeByePoly]

If i had anykind of normal racquet around here I would send you one strung. They are all short, heavy or stiff. Yikes my racquets are just like me. They racquets are just like me

We think alike ... in the previous post I almost suggested sending you Zenni glasses, and you sending me a kevlar/zx stick. I posted to your "eye doc killing you" thread with some zenni glasses pics.

My racquets are like me also ... short, stiff and can't run.

 

[Shroud]

We think alike ... in the previous post I almost suggested sending you Zenni glasses, and you sending me a kevlar/zx stick. I posted to your "eye doc killing you" thread with some zenni glasses pics.

My racquets are like me also ... short, stiff and can't run.

Still working on the glasses. Let you know. May find a stick for you yet.

 

[Muppet]

Yeah ... the thread title was accurate.

I have 5 sets of hdx, and 3.5 v ... some combo of the two will be it for a while.

"You know HDX will have less tension loss [I think] so you need to keep the V up there at a higher tension to start to help the HDX hold its tension. V will settle eventually to what ever HDX will let it get to."

With hdx/v ... since v drops faster, I assumed hdx is on it's own. No wonder some avoid hybrids ... it's UNKNOWABLE.

You're focusing too much on tension loss in this post. Velocity and HDX Tour are decidedly both great for tension maintenance. Compare to the happy player who crosses ALU with an sg. Tension loss is really not a factor between your two strings.

The things you should be considering closely are power, comfort, and string bed consistency. I think you're going to need a tension differential if you want to nail the playability you want. But since these two strings are so similar, I would only vary the tension by one pound to start, with Velocity lower. Say 54/53 HDX/V. That would even sit you right between V full and HDX full. For slightly more comfort and power, 53/52.

 

[ByeByePoly]

You're focusing too much on tension loss in this post. Velocity and HDX Tour are decidedly both great for tension maintenance. Compare to the happy player who crosses ALU with an sg. Tension loss is really not a factor between your two strings.

The things you should be considering closely are power, comfort, and string bed consistency. I think you're going to need a tension differential if you want to nail the playability you want. But since these two strings are so similar, I would only vary the tension by one pound to start, with Velocity lower. Say 54/53 HDX/V. That would even sit you right between V full and HDX full. For slightly more comfort and power, 53/52.

"You're focusing too much on tension loss in this post."

The reason I posted this ... besides being bored, and actually going to string this combo in the near future, was a possible hybrid education (of me). To me, I suspect there are a lot of dynamics going on with two separate strings ... and no doubt we don't understand all of them. The reason I brought up the difference in tension between these two strings was more for the general discussion. I agree with you ... if you have a string that loses 10%, and another 15% ... not much of an issue. That said ... even with a 5% tension drop difference, you might factor it in to where you want the strings to settle.

Here are a couple of examples ... using the hdx and velocity.

Let's say your #1 concern is the string bed consistency you (and I) mentioned. I would make the case equal tension in mains and crosses would be the most consistent (not talking spin), but consistent power. This may not be actually true, but assume it for my example. If you string hdx and v at equal tensions, I suspect v settles lower than hdx because holds tension 5% better. So you would string the v in hdx/v slightly higher at stringing, planning on v to drop a little more and end up even with hdx. So say hdx/v 52/54 or something to settle even.

It would be the same thing (I mentioned in orig post I think), if your intention was for v crosses to end up ... say 5% less than hdx mains. Since they will lose 5% more, you string at equal tensions, say 53/53 ... and the strings settle with v being 5% less than the hdx mains.

Now, if @esgee48 is right ... and the higher tension string will tend to lose tension to match the lower tension string, we could all just concentrate on where we wanted the lower tension string to settle (and forget about all these different tensions between mains and crosses). So I know v will settle to about 45ish when strung at 52 on a LO. If that is what I want to happen ... and hdx will try and match that settled 45, then adding more tension to hdx will just be that much tighter for a short time until it reaches v. So hdx/v 52/52 ... or 55/52 ... or 60/52 doesn't matter ... other for a short time, because the hdx is going to lose enough tension to match the v @52. ???

So I think your point about it doesn't matter as much with two strings that don't lose much tension must be correct. But I might extend that to "you are much more likely to get a consistent string bed with hybrids where both strings are great at tension maintenance ... than any combination where one or both lose a ton of tension". How could any string that loses a ton of tension be consistent? Says the guy who played rpm blast 16g for 2-3 months and didn't have a problem with consistency. I just thought the first match or two was magic ... and then it was just consistent.

 

[Muppet]

"You're focusing too much on tension loss in this post."

The reason I posted this ... besides being bored, and actually going to string this combo in the near future, was a possible hybrid education (of me). To me, I suspect there are a lot of dynamics going on with two separate strings ... and no doubt we don't understand all of them. The reason I brought up the difference in tension between these two strings was more for the general discussion. I agree with you ... if you have a string that loses 10%, and another 15% ... not much of an issue. That said ... even with a 5% tension drop difference, you might factor it in to where you want the strings to settle.

Here are a couple of examples ... using the hdx and velocity.

Let's say your #1 concern is the string bed consistency you (and I) mentioned. I would make the case equal tension in mains and crosses would be the most consistent (not talking spin), but consistent power. This may not be actually true, but assume it for my example. If you string hdx and v at equal tensions, I suspect v settles lower than hdx because holds tension 5% better. So you would string the v in hdx/v slightly higher at stringing, planning on v to drop a little more and end up even with hdx. So say hdx/v 52/54 or something to settle even.

It would be the same thing (I mentioned in orig post I think), if your intention was for v crosses to end up ... say 5% less than hdx mains. Since they will lose 5% more, you string at equal tensions, say 53/53 ... and the strings settle with v being 5% less than the hdx mains.

Now, if @esgee48 is right ... and the higher tension string will tend to lose tension to match the lower tension string, we could all just concentrate on where we wanted the lower tension string to settle (and forget about all these different tensions between mains and crosses). So I know v will settle to about 45ish when strung at 52 on a LO. If that is what I want to happen ... and hdx will try and match that settled 45, then adding more tension to hdx will just be that much tighter for a short time until it reaches v. So hdx/v 52/52 ... or 55/52 ... or 60/52 doesn't matter ... other for a short time, because the hdx is going to lose enough tension to match the v @52. ???

So I think your point about it doesn't matter as much with two strings that don't lose much tension must be correct. But I might extend that to "you are much more likely to get a consistent string bed with hybrids where both strings are great at tension maintenance ... than any combination where one or both lose a ton of tension". How could any string that loses a ton of tension be consistent? Says the guy who played rpm blast 16g for 2-3 months and didn't have a problem with consistency. I just thought the first match or two was magic ... and then it was just consistent.

First of all, thanks for replying to my post. But my point was, you have two strings with great tension maintenance. You don't need to compensate for this or even consider it further. The longevity you're going for in a hybrid seems like it must be exponential.

As for the 1 lb. decrease in Velocity below that of HDX, that is simply because V is a little stiffer of a string than HDX (by TWU numbers). But you probably wouldn't notice much difference. It might play slightly crisper with the 1 lb. differential.

 

[ByeByePoly]

First of all, thanks for replying to my post. But my point was, you have two strings with great tension maintenance. You don't need to compensate for this or even consider it further. The longevity you're going for in a hybrid seems like it must be exponential.

As for the 1 lb. decrease in Velocity below that of HDX, that is simply because V is a little stiffer of a string than HDX (by TWU numbers). But you probably wouldn't noice much difference. It might play slightly crisper with the 1 lb. differential.

I agreed with your point.

"I agree with you ... if you have a string that loses 10%, and another 15% ... not much of an issue. That said ... even with a 5% tension drop difference, you might factor it in to where you want the strings to settle."

Everything after was for hybrid discussion purposes.

 

[RayPS97]

I like fb Head Velocity 16g natural ...
.
.
. I don't have that much experience with hybrids ... so tapping the tt hybrid string scientists for input here.
.
.
.

This forum has been a great resource for narrowing down candidate strings for someone who bought their first new racquet in almost two decades. My Wilson PS97 played beautifully for a week(three weeks after it was strung 50m/52x and settled down) before the dead poly(YPTP) demons surfaced and limited me to 2nd serve power levels (shoulder soreness). I've been lurking "big time" on Velocity threads and now HDX and well aware of @ByeByePoly and his RPM Blast experience over the medium term. Intrigued by his latest hybrid experiment, I thought it be interesting to see who was the first to mention these two strings in the same post. So a shout out is in order to @SJSA who playtested Velocity for TW in August 2015 and mentioned HDX as his reference string: The HDX Tour string coming in on his radar, even earlier, on August 2014.

So I look forward to this spring to restringing one of my two new matched Yonex SV Core Team (poor man's SV 95?) racquets with a full bed of Velocity with the second racquet used as a comparative reference for string experiments as per @Traffic and @ByeByePoly. Thanks to this community for sharing.

 

[ByeByePoly]

This forum has been a great resource for narrowing down candidate strings for someone who bought their first new racquet in almost two decades. My Wilson PS97 played beautifully for a week(three weeks after it was strung 50m/52x and settled down) before the dead poly(YPTP) demons surfaced and limited me to 2nd serve power levels (shoulder soreness). I've been lurking "big time" on Velocity threads and now HDX and well aware of @ByeByePoly and his RPM Blast experience over the medium term. Intrigued by his latest hybrid experiment, I thought it be interesting to see who was the first to mention these two strings in the same post. So a shout out is in order to @SJSA who playtested Velocity for TW in August 2015 and mentioned HDX as his reference string: The HDX Tour string coming in on his radar, even earlier, on August 2014.

So I look forward to this spring to restringing one of my two new matched Yonex SV Core Team (poor man's SV 95?) racquets with a full bed of Velocity with the second racquet used as a comparative reference for string experiments as per @Traffic and @ByeByePoly. Thanks to this community for sharing.

Welcome ... you have lurked long enough.

HDX over for me ... 1/3 poly was 1/3 too much for my sissy elbow.

https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/head-velocity.586942/page-26#post-12110814

 

[Shroud]

Welcome ... you have lurked long enough.

HDX over for me ... 1/3 poly was 1/3 too much for my sissy elbow.

https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/head-velocity.586942/page-26#post-12110814

Whats going on man. You still have elbow issues? Quit playing with those light sticks man. What grip size are you using??

 

[ByeByePoly]

Whats going on man. You still have elbow issues? Quit playing with those light sticks man. What grip size are you using??

11.4 oz is heavy for this weak tennis player who played with 10 oz sticks for 40 years.

I think elbow will be ok ... I just held the giant Tupperware container full of chocolate at full arm extension ... supinated and pronated ... no problem ... plus I ate some chocolates.

My grip size is none of your business. Oh ... you meant racquet ... 3/8th post overgrip.

 

[ByeByePoly]

Whats going on man. You still have elbow issues? Quit playing with those light sticks man. What grip size are you using??

I thought of you the other day. My stringer was asking where I come up with the strings I bring him. I told him "internet friends". I told him I had avoided bringing him "internet ZX" because it was known to break on the stringer. He claimed he used to string Ashaway Zyex all the time when he worked for someone else, and never broke it. That would have been 20+ years ago, I assume he must be thinking of something else other than monogut ZX. ???

 

[Shroud]

I thought of you the other day. My stringer was asking where I come up with the strings I bring him. I told him "internet friends". I told him I had avoided bringing him "internet ZX" because it was known to break on the stringer. He claimed he used to string Ashaway Zyex all the time when he worked for someone else, and never broke it. That would have been 20+ years ago, I assume he must be thinking of something else other than monogut ZX. ???

Yea. Its the monogut that is differrnt. Other zyex string is a multi construction and doesnt break

Imho the best multi out there is the ashaway dynamite series. If you can do 18g you would like the blue color.

 

[Shroud]

11.4 oz is heavy for this weak tennis player who played with 10 oz sticks for 40 years.

I think elbow will be ok ... I just held the giant Tupperware container full of chocolate at full arm extension ... supinated and pronated ... no problem ... plus I ate some chocolates.

My grip size is none of your business. Oh ... you meant racquet ... 3/8th post overgrip.

What stroke is heavy and stop eating chocolates

 

[ByeByePoly]

What stroke is heavy and stop eating chocolates

Maybe the issue is more my weight and not the racquet weight... frickin daily chocolates.

 

[Muppet]

Maybe the issue is more my weight and not the racquet weight... frickin daily chocolates.

More shoulder rotation makes it easier for me to use 12.2 ounce racquets. Less strain on the arm and shoulder, but earlier racquet prep.

 

[ByeByePoly]

More shoulder rotation makes it easier for me to use 12.2 ounce racquets. Less strain on the arm and shoulder, but earlier racquet prep.

I hit with my buddies 12+ oz racquet several years ago. I absolutely hated it for serving, it felt like lifting lumber. I'm ok at 11.5ish ... but will never go heavier than that. I would have said if I end up relegated to doubles only, I would go back to a 10.8ish racquet. The 2hbh complicated that ... my old Yonex RDIS 200 lite (11ish) feels almost too light now with 2hbh. Ironically, one of the guys I hit with now hits the hardest ball I've ever been on the court with using a sub 10 oz racquet (I think syn gut strings). His flat 2hbh is as hard as any shot I have been on the court with... and he just recently moved up to 4.0.

 

[esgee48]

[1] Do not say 'Internet Friends' - he may think you're perverted - you could threaten someone
[2] Say 'From Harvey, my invisible 6 foot tall rabbit; Say hello to Harvey' - he'll just think you're a harmless crazy old man
[3] Just go back to Velocity 16 Natural
[4] If you must retry Velocity 17, string it up 5# lighter

 

[ByeByePoly]

[1] Do not say 'Internet Friends' - he may think you're perverted - you could threaten someone
[2] Say 'From Harvey, my invisible 6 foot tall rabbit; Say hello to Harvey' - he'll just think you're a harmless crazy old man
[3] Just go back to Velocity 16 Natural
[4] If you must retry Velocity 17, string it up 5# lighter

4 sets HDX 16 magically transforming to 7 sets velocity 16.

 

[Shroud]

[1] Do not say 'Internet Friends' - he may think you're perverted - you could threaten someone
[2] Say 'From Harvey, my invisible 6 foot tall rabbit; Say hello to Harvey' - he'll just think you're a harmless crazy old man
[3] Just go back to Velocity 16 Natural
[4] If you must retry Velocity 17, string it up 5# lighter

I know you were talking about what his stringer would think, but I already changed my status on social media when I read bye bye’s poast. But sadly changed it back after I read his rant about 12oz being too heavy. Even Shroud must have SOME standards in internet friends.

 

[Shroud]

I hit with my buddies 12+ oz racquet several years ago. I absolutely hated it for serving, it felt like lifting lumber. I'm ok at 11.5ish ... but will never go heavier than that. I would have said if I end up relegated to doubles only, I would go back to a 10.8ish racquet. The 2hbh complicated that ... my old Yonex RDIS 200 lite (11ish) feels almost too light now with 2hbh. Ironically, one of the guys I hit with now hits the hardest ball I've ever been on the court with using a sub 10 oz racquet (I think syn gut strings). His flat 2hbh is as hard as any shot I have been on the court with... and he just recently moved up to 4.0.

I find serving with 12oz racquets tough too. But thats because they are either too light or too head heavy. I was always hitting them in the net because I was coming around too fast.

 

[ByeByePoly]

I find serving with 12oz racquets tough too. But thats because they are either too light or too head heavy. I was always hitting them in the net because I was coming around too fast.

I have to work with what I have.

 

[Dartagnan64]

Two words: Prince Phantom

Three words: Origin/Velocity Hybrid

Arm has never felt better and i'm playing awesome tennis these days. Well as awesome as a lowly 3.5 player can. It's nice not to feel like the weak link when I'm playing with my 4.0 crowd these days.

 

[esgee48]

@ByeByePoly needs to buy another V1 before embarking on his Racket Trek. Or maybe he can sell his 2 to @Traffic. They're Volkls, so their pallets can be swapped out.