Looking for Advice: Stringer <$1000

[AZJ1973]

I bought a Klippermate about two years ago and taught myself how to string racquets. I only string racquets for my family of four and an occasional request by a desperate player on my son's team if he breaks a string.

I find it easy to string on the Klipper but I really don't like how the clamps grab two strings at a time. I know I want a stringer that is a single clamp system.

Any recommendations? Do I buy a used Neos 1000 for $900 or look for a brand new stringer from alpha or gamma in the same price range?

 

[Arvin_C]

Hello! Refer to thread here:

https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/many-refurbished-prince-neos-1000s.648989/

Very similar to you looking at NEOS and other machines in the sub-$1000 category.

 

[AZJ1973]

Yep. I saw that thread. Just curious if going with a refurbished Neos 1000 is the way to go or if I should look at a brand new Alpha Axis Pro or another brand new model in that range.

 

[the_faceless_player]

My Axis Pro has been awesome since I bought it 3 years ago. Great customer service as well.

 

[1HBHfanatic]

the one I would go with, is the one that allows you to upgrade to the "wise tension head(electric type)", latter
that seems to be the next upgrade people do when they get the cranks!!

 

[AZJ1973]

Would the Tourna CS 300 allow that? I really like the mounting system of the CS.

 

[Arvin_C]

Would the Tourna CS 300 allow that? I really like the mounting system of the CS.

Yes...the Tourna 300-CS (the machine I have) will work just fine with the Wise. I’m converting mine with the Wise next month.

I, too, bought my Tourna because of its mounting system. Combined with the Wise, it would be a very good “pro” level machine.

Good luck!

 

[Rabbit]

IMO, you cannot go wrong with a refurb'd NEOS 1000 from TennisMachines

$899 + free shipping

 

[MAX PLY]

^^^mucho like! Good call.

 

[loosegroove]

IMO, you cannot go wrong with a refurb'd NEOS 1000 from TennisMachines

$899 + free shipping

$899 for a used NEOS 1000!? Pffft...I got a way better deal on a used 1500!

 

[Rabbit]

$899 for a used NEOS 1000!? Pffft...I got a way better deal on a used 1500!

Shhhhhhhhhhhh you're about to violate the non-disclosure!

 

[MAX PLY]

$899 for a used NEOS 1000!? Pffft...I got a way better deal on a used 1500!

There’s always a single better deal out there. But in this case it’s not just any ol’ Used Neos—it’s one refurbished by TM, making it like a “certified pre-owned” vehicle + free shipping. I have to believe that’s the best deal out there, pound for pound.

 

[emptystringer]

I picked up at Gamma X-ST several years ago for 899, but having looked back wish I would have gone NEOS 1000, mainly b/c those NEOS clamps are so good. Only problem I think (pls correct if wrong), is that stringing fan patterns on NEOS would be difficult (if not impossible?). So if you are stringing for HS players, fan patterns like Head Ti.S6 and others from big box retailers are popular. Plus you'll find that word travels quickly that there's a stinger in the neighborhood, so if you have racquetball players nearby they'll will come a-calling too with their exotic patterned racquets... making fixed swivel clamps a better option if you wanted to start up a side-hussle. But if you wanted to stick with tennis racquets, agree with above... the TM deal is superb and their customer service top notch.

 

[Rabbit]

There’s always a single better deal out there. But in this case it’s not just any ol’ Used Neos—it’s one refurbished by TM, making it like a “certified pre-owned” vehicle + free shipping. I have to believe that’s the best deal out there, pound for pound.

Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*

 

[esgee48]

emptystringer - TM would include a flying clamp with the Neos for fan patterns.
[/sarcasm] Rabbit and Loosegroove must have some sort of relationship with the Neos 1500. Your secret is safe, though it is recorded somewhere on this site because LG spilled the beans. [/end sarcasm]

 

[MAX PLY]

I must say that the Charge of the Like Brigade is certainly a fun alternative to the deletion of the "Like" button. Maybe TW should reconsider (and I suspect its original elimination was probably driven by the abominations occurring constantly in the Pro Player section--too bad legit compliments must pay the price).

 

[AZJ1973]

Thanks for the advice and the discussion. Yesterday I purchased a Neos 1000 from TM. I will give it a try as is but I am tempted to add a Wise 8026 to it.

Just have to get used to the new machine and learn how it all works as I taught myself on a klippermate.

 

[Irvin]

Just have to get used to the new machine and learn how it all works as I taught myself on a klippermate.

Unless you string fan rackets or use an ATW or Box pattern that should not take long.

 

[AZJ1973]

Nope, nothing weird. I play with Yonex DR 98, my son with Babolat Pure Aero and my wife and daughter both use the Clash 100L.

 

[Rabbit]

The NEOS is good for all. If you get the flying clamps, fan patterns are no problem. I did ATW's all the time on mine. It's not as fast as swivel clamps, but for a normal frame, it is faster. Congrats on your purchase @AZJ1973 you're going to love it.

@MAX PLY
Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*Like*

 

[Irvin]

@AZJ1973 Babolat rackets have a slight fan on the outer string but should not cause too much trouble. Just make sure the clamp does not twist off too much when tying off the mains.

 

[loosegroove]

[/sarcasm] Rabbit and Loosegroove must have some sort of relationship with the Neos 1500. Your secret is safe, though it is recorded somewhere on this site because LG spilled the beans. [/end sarcasm]

Let's just say that a certain board member, we'll call him Cottontail, impulsively purchased a fancy French electronic stringing machine. Then he made it a point to sell his old Neos machine to yours-truly before Mrs. Cottontail could question the delivery of another huge parcel to their rabbithole.

 

[Rabbit]

Let's just say that a certain board member, we'll call him Cottontail, impulsively purchased a fancy French electronic stringing machine. And he made it a point to sell his old Neos machine to yours-truly before Mrs. Cottontail could question the delivery of another huge parcel to their rabbithole.

@esgee48, I think that sums the situation up very nicely.

 

[Rabbit]

@AZJ1973 Babolat rackets have a slight fan on the outer string but should not cause too much trouble. Just make sure the clamp does not twist off too much when tying off the mains.

@AZJ1973 - they do, but it's not enough to make any difference to the NEOS.

 

[1HBHfanatic]

Let's just say that a certain board member, we'll call him Cottontail, impulsively purchased a fancy French electronic stringing machine. And he made it a point to sell his old Neos machine to yours-truly before Mrs. Cottontail could question the delivery of another huge parcel to their rabbithole.

@esgee48, I think that sums the situation up very nicely.

LIKE

 

[Rabbit]

I have to say my wife says the Mighty Sensor fits our decor better after the remodel.

 

[AZJ1973]

Who sells Wise 8026?

 

[emptystringer]

tennis head (one word) dot com

 

[AZJ1973]

My bad. They sell them right here at TW.

 

[Irvin]

Who sells Wise 8026?

No one but there are many who sell a Wise 2086.

 

[AZJ1973]

I guess I have a long time to wait for the 8026 to be released.

 

[TimeToPlaySets]

Find a used machine or buy a new one from TT
Flying clamps are so fun to use.
So is the electro pull.

I only string for myself.
And it's the best money I've ever spent

 

[AndI]

AZJ1973

Just curious: you set your initial price target at $1000. Have you been able to meet this target with the used Neos + Wise?

 

[AZJ1973]

AZJ1973

Just curious: you set your initial price target at $1000. Have you been able to meet this target with the used Neos + Wise?

Nope. It was $900 for the Neos 1000. Then $625 for the Wise.

 

[AndI]

This is how budgets go down the drain... I hope you will like your new system!

 

[DanF1961]

Nope. It was $900 for the Neos 1000. Then $625 for the Wise.

@AZJ1973 How's the Refurbished Neos 1000 working for you? I'm strongly considering one myself. Thanks.

 

[AZJ1973]

@AZJ1973 How's the Refurbished Neos 1000 working for you? I'm strongly considering one myself. Thanks.

Just used it for the first time today and strung up two racquets. I love it. I don’t know how you could tell that’s it not brand new.

 

[graycrait]

Just used it for the first time today and strung up two racquets. I love it. I don’t know how you could tell that’s it not brand new.

There are things you can do with other machines but when I am stringing Ashaway Kevlar or Ashaway Zyex I am so grateful how I can pull tension with the NEOS 1000 I got used from TM.

 

[esgee48]

Just used it for the first time today and strung up two racquets. I love it. I don’t know how you could tell that’s it not brand new.

Did you string the 2 frames with the LO or the Wise "8026"? [Pulling your leg over that typo of the 2086 ]

 

[Chingoo1255]

Just used it for the first time today and strung up two racquets. I love it. I don’t know how you could tell that’s it not brand new.

Seriously considering one. How’s the cosmetics on scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being brand new. Just want to be sure no surprises since it’s refurbished

 

[esgee48]

I don’t know how you could tell that’s it not brand new.

OP said looks brand new. TM refurbishments replaces parts and paints as needed. They are authorized Prince repair shop as well as other machine brands.

 

[Chingoo1255]

Thanks. That’s exactly what I needed to know, if the refurbishment included touching up the cosmetics or did the just happen to get a very well taken care of stringer.

 

[AndI]

So many people want it... I must admit, I saw it, never had an opportunity to use it. I am trying to understand why it is so attractive, on a relative scale. From what I gathered,

Positives:
1. Relatively reasonable price, especially if refurbished.
2. Built like a tank, great for sweatshops because it is unlikely to break even if abused.
3. Can be used while traveling without restrictions as it does not require electrical power. I saw people stringing their racquets on a parking lot. However, weight and size could be problematic with smaller cars.
4. I assume, above average stability of the clamps due to design (clamps mounted on a rod) which reduces motion when tension from the tensioner is released.

Downsides:
1. Crank - a gradually disappering technology. Tension offset compared to constant pull. For this reason, it may be hard if not impossible to use for customers unless upgraded. Some owners start with an upgrade to Wise, which largely negates the cost benefits and makes total cost close to several other options on the market.
2. Two point mount (differences to 6 point mount are arguable, but there is at least a perceived value in it)
3. Switching from mains to cross-strings requires an additional step (moving clamp rails).
4. Not too modern or sexy look due to lack of buttons and display screen.
5. Since Prince as a company went out of business long ago, and this machine is old, how long the parts will be available?

What did I miss in this list?

 

[esgee48]

Cranks are actually faster than eCP machines. I can tension with a click where I have to wait 2-3 seconds for eCP to beep. For 'sweat shops' where you have to crank out a lot of frames, LOs are fast, just not as glamorous. Ref tension would be different between machines to get the same DT. Technology is mature and stable. The 2 point mount is really a 4 point mount and it does the job. Definitely no issues with blocked holes from a side support. Parts are available from TM. They are still making LOs of this nature. Glide bars do not seem to require as much adjustments over time as swivel clamp bases.

 

[Arvin_C]

@AndI - The biggest advantage of the Lock Out design is its maturity...it’s just so fool- & bomb-proof at this point. Once you have it setup & know it’s calibrated properly, you can literally do a thousand racquets without ever thinking about the machine...especially on the battleships that the NEOS machines are.

And @esgee48 is absolutely correct: I am willing to bet that the vast majority of us who have strung at the pro/commercial level would be faster on a crank machine than any electronic CP...and this is coming from a guy that’s converting his LO with a Wise. If I was ever challenged to get a stick done in 15 mins, I’d be slipping that Wise off & sliding the LO tensioner back on!

Tension offset is not an issue as long as you know what your reference tensions are on YOUR machine and the proper techniques to achieve them. Yes, you can mitigate inconsistencies greatly with an electronic CP (for me, this is their biggest advantage), but it is possible to get the same string “job” on any quality machine, regardless of tensioning method, as long as you know what you’re doing.

Just my $0.02 worth...

 

[Irvin]

I don’t think LO / cranks are faster than eCP machines, but when most people think of a LO they think of a NEOS 1000 which is a glide bar machine. Single action glide bar clamps are faster than a double action fixed clamps. I believe if you put a Wise 2086 on a NEOS 1000 it will be even faster. True the Wise may take longer to reach full tension but full tension will be reached before you can start moving your clamp unless you’re also using the pre-stretch function.

EDIT: Why would anyone put a Wise on a LO if it is going to slow you down?

 

[Rabbit]

@AndI - I disagree about the 2-point mounting system being a negative. Anyone who has ever used a Prince two-point mount can testify as to the solidity of the mount. If there is a negative to the 1000, it's that the adjustment lock is under the table and can easily be forgotten. When that happens, one runs the very real risk of breaking a frame. But the mounting system is faster than a six-point to mount and unmount and IMO more secure. There is no frame movement and no frame distortion. To be honest, prefer the mounting system of the NEOS 1500 over any machine I've used/owned, including the Mighty Sensor's six-point mount. I think the NEOS 1500 has hands down the best mounting system made.

@Irvin - you'd replace the lock out with a Wise because an electronic (even according some of your posts) is less taxing on the user if you have a mountain of frames to string AND you get the benefit of constant pull which translates to tighter more consistent string beds.

 

[loosegroove]

@Irvin - you'd replace the lock out with a Wise because an electronic (even according some of your posts) is less taxing on the user if you have a mountain of frames to string AND you get the benefit of constant pull which translates to tighter more consistent string beds.

Don't forget the tertiary benefit of scoring with the ladies. Us stringers are generally already chick magnets, but add in fancy electronic equipment and it's almost like Beatle-mania all over again.

 

[Arvin_C]

Don't forget the tertiary benefit of scoring with the ladies. Us stringers are generally already chick magnets, but add in fancy electronic equipment and it's almost like Beatle-mania all over again.

Lights, touch pads, buttons and beeps...Stringing machine bling! LOL

 

[AndI]

@AndI - There is no frame movement and no frame distortion.

Rabbit, thank you so much for your input. This is what I've been trying to understand but had hard times finding evidence - how much value there is in a 6 point mount compared to 2-point mount, how much it actually adds by way of preserving shape of the frame under unbalanced stress.

Could you please share a link to measurement data which confirm that there is no distortion in 2-point mount, or distortion greater than that with a 6 point mount? Without data, it is nothing but speculation, and I had trouble finding such data even though I am sure such data exist. I am truly curious as this topic comes up over and over again in the forums.