bayside8869
New User
Correction...I gotta proof read my stuff.....16 M x 18 X's...sorry!
Official TW String Playtest: 361 Nation
- Thread starter TW Staff
- Start date
themitchmann
Hall of Fame
Bayside: what area of CT? I'm in the NW corner of the state.
SOY78
Professional
* Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set): 55# Hybrid with Gosen OG Sheep Micro 18 on crosses
* Your regular string set up Natural Gut mains, poly crosses 57#+/-
* String pattern of your racquet: 16x19
* Power (or lack there of) Power had to be supplied by myself, had to really whack the ball hard to see some speed out of the ball
* Feel: Tried to volley with this and didn't like the feel at net
* Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): So far the tension maintenance has been really good.
* Overall comments and feedback: Not sure how this string is in full but I might consider this as a cross with NG mains because of the lack of power and great tension maintenance
* Your regular string set up Natural Gut mains, poly crosses 57#+/-
* String pattern of your racquet: 16x19
* Power (or lack there of) Power had to be supplied by myself, had to really whack the ball hard to see some speed out of the ball
* Feel: Tried to volley with this and didn't like the feel at net
* Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): So far the tension maintenance has been really good.
* Overall comments and feedback: Not sure how this string is in full but I might consider this as a cross with NG mains because of the lack of power and great tension maintenance
Eightmarky
Rookie
361Nation Playtest 17g
Tension it is strung:
Full bed 17g - 52 Main 50 Cross
Your regular string set up:
I've been switching between full poly and hybrid with poly mains all strung between 50-60 lbs
String pattern of your racquet:
APDGT+ 16x19
Power:
These strings had adequate power and after playing them, I would recommend stringing toward the higher end of your range. I personally would strings these up again around 55-56.
Feel:
Not as soft as Pro Poly Plasma and didn't seem to have the same spin potential as Black Code or MSV. Couldn't dial in a comfort level at net.
Tension maintenance:
Ok so far - about 5 hours of play
Overall comments and feedback:
I both hit around with this string casually and played it in a competitive 4.0doubles match against some big hitters. Serves were great with lots of pop and my first serve percentage was right on if not a tad higher. Returns were ok, but I didn't feel as able to get the ball below the opponents waist like I can with Black Code or MSV. Groundstokes were good but didn't feel as comfortable with the topspin generation I was producing compared to the MSV I have in my other racquet. Had a number of balls fly long in practice trying to return powerfully hit groundstrokes and this is not a problem for me usually as my game revolves around being a good counter-puncher. In the match, I had to shorten strokes or take some power off the ball to keep it in and this led to some easy balls for the opponents. Feel was where I thought this string lacked the most. I never felt comfortable at net, and dumped a number of balls into the net. I also like to think I can hit a decent topspin lob and all the lobs I hit were either way short or long. For my game, I would not buy this string over Black Code or MSV due to a perceived decrease in feel from those two strings.
Thanks TW for the opportunity to participate in this playtest.
Tension it is strung:
Full bed 17g - 52 Main 50 Cross
Your regular string set up:
I've been switching between full poly and hybrid with poly mains all strung between 50-60 lbs
String pattern of your racquet:
APDGT+ 16x19
Power:
These strings had adequate power and after playing them, I would recommend stringing toward the higher end of your range. I personally would strings these up again around 55-56.
Feel:
Not as soft as Pro Poly Plasma and didn't seem to have the same spin potential as Black Code or MSV. Couldn't dial in a comfort level at net.
Tension maintenance:
Ok so far - about 5 hours of play
Overall comments and feedback:
I both hit around with this string casually and played it in a competitive 4.0doubles match against some big hitters. Serves were great with lots of pop and my first serve percentage was right on if not a tad higher. Returns were ok, but I didn't feel as able to get the ball below the opponents waist like I can with Black Code or MSV. Groundstokes were good but didn't feel as comfortable with the topspin generation I was producing compared to the MSV I have in my other racquet. Had a number of balls fly long in practice trying to return powerfully hit groundstrokes and this is not a problem for me usually as my game revolves around being a good counter-puncher. In the match, I had to shorten strokes or take some power off the ball to keep it in and this led to some easy balls for the opponents. Feel was where I thought this string lacked the most. I never felt comfortable at net, and dumped a number of balls into the net. I also like to think I can hit a decent topspin lob and all the lobs I hit were either way short or long. For my game, I would not buy this string over Black Code or MSV due to a perceived decrease in feel from those two strings.
Thanks TW for the opportunity to participate in this playtest.
Six.One.Tour.90FAN
Professional
Anyone in UK who got the set?
I still haven't got mine :/
90
I still haven't got mine :/
90
asiank90
Rookie
No, haven't got mine yet. Don't think anyone in UK has :/
StanW
Rookie
So I received my 361 Nation string today in the mail, I was so hoping to play with it today, however Mother Nature decided to let it pour and soak the tennis courts.
Hopefully I'll be able to play tomorrow when it dries up and becomes a little bit warmer. I'll be sure to post an update on how this string is, later this weak.
Hopefully I'll be able to play tomorrow when it dries up and becomes a little bit warmer. I'll be sure to post an update on how this string is, later this weak.
Kenny022593
Professional
I will start by saying that I am not a poly user and my normal set up is Forten Nylon 16g at 49 lbs strung as a two piece. So, going into the playtest I was a bit weary of how stiff the string would be and how I would have no feel at all. This playtest was conducted over a week with 7 hours of hitting put on the string. The first hit was done about 12 hours after the string was strung.
Stringing
I strung the string as a two piece, full job, in my Yonex RDiS 100 mid, 16x20 string pattern, at my normal tension. I pre-stretched it by hand and went off the the races with my Klippermate. The string was suprisingly easy to string. It was 100x easier than stringing Adrenaline which is a pain for me. I normally have to clean the machine half way through stringing the mains for that string. With 361 Nation, I was able to clean it once before stringing and that was all that was needed.
There was little coil memory for a Poly and no slipping either in the string gripper. Weaving was also pretty easy. It seemed to me like it was exactly like my Forten, except for the last 3 crosses. Overall, stringing was fairly easy for a full poly set up.
Power
There was decent power. It was obviously less than my Forten set up, but I think that was a good thing. It let me swing through the ball more which added spin on my shots.
The two things that I felt it lacked power on though were serve and Volley's. They just felt like they were not popping off with a nice recoil effect. It could've just been me though.
Spin
The spin was very nice. I was able to get my shots to drop a lot more than I am used to and it felt very nice. I could swing out as compared to the Forten where I would sometimes be scared that I would hit it long. I hit a lot of shots that would either go into the back curtain or a foot long in the court with room to spare.
Feel and Comfort
For a poly the feel was amazing to me! I was surprised to beable to feel the ball and pull off touch shots like with my softer set up! I hit a few crazy drop volleys and they went exactly where I wanted them to go. IT WAS AMAZING! It wasn't as stiff as I initially thought it would be, but I guess it was a co poly?
The comfort was a different story though. After the first 3 hours my elbow felt a little twingey, but that may just be because I don't normally use Poly. Over the next 4 hours the string felt decently comfortable and now I feel no twinge hitting with it. So, it is nice.
Tension Maintenance and string life
The tension maintenance seemed fine to me. After the about 7 hours that I have hit with it so far, it seems to have held tension nicely. With string life, I felt that it lost pop at around the 6 hour mark, but it is still pretty good for me.
Overview
Overall, I thought that this string was great. It matched my playing style nicely and the pros definitely outweigh the cons for me. If it was on the market, I would switch to it. Now, I just need to find a string that can match it until it comes out
Stringing
I strung the string as a two piece, full job, in my Yonex RDiS 100 mid, 16x20 string pattern, at my normal tension. I pre-stretched it by hand and went off the the races with my Klippermate. The string was suprisingly easy to string. It was 100x easier than stringing Adrenaline which is a pain for me. I normally have to clean the machine half way through stringing the mains for that string. With 361 Nation, I was able to clean it once before stringing and that was all that was needed.
There was little coil memory for a Poly and no slipping either in the string gripper. Weaving was also pretty easy. It seemed to me like it was exactly like my Forten, except for the last 3 crosses. Overall, stringing was fairly easy for a full poly set up.
Power
There was decent power. It was obviously less than my Forten set up, but I think that was a good thing. It let me swing through the ball more which added spin on my shots.
The two things that I felt it lacked power on though were serve and Volley's. They just felt like they were not popping off with a nice recoil effect. It could've just been me though.
Spin
The spin was very nice. I was able to get my shots to drop a lot more than I am used to and it felt very nice. I could swing out as compared to the Forten where I would sometimes be scared that I would hit it long. I hit a lot of shots that would either go into the back curtain or a foot long in the court with room to spare.
Feel and Comfort
For a poly the feel was amazing to me! I was surprised to beable to feel the ball and pull off touch shots like with my softer set up! I hit a few crazy drop volleys and they went exactly where I wanted them to go. IT WAS AMAZING! It wasn't as stiff as I initially thought it would be, but I guess it was a co poly?
The comfort was a different story though. After the first 3 hours my elbow felt a little twingey, but that may just be because I don't normally use Poly. Over the next 4 hours the string felt decently comfortable and now I feel no twinge hitting with it. So, it is nice.
Tension Maintenance and string life
The tension maintenance seemed fine to me. After the about 7 hours that I have hit with it so far, it seems to have held tension nicely. With string life, I felt that it lost pop at around the 6 hour mark, but it is still pretty good for me.
Overview
Overall, I thought that this string was great. It matched my playing style nicely and the pros definitely outweigh the cons for me. If it was on the market, I would switch to it. Now, I just need to find a string that can match it until it comes out
Last edited:
Kenny022593
Professional
They just sent one to me, but I guess they only pick certain people?
bayside8869
New User
Mitchmann,
I live in a small town that you probably have never heard of......Higganum. We are close to the Goodspeed along the CT River. Where in NW CT are you located?
nalvarado
Semi-Pro
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
* Tension: 60 full bed
* Lightning XX 17 62 full bed
* Aeropro Drive Cortex (16x19)
* Low to average power
* Little to no feel (mainly due to tension)
* Held solid in the 2 hours I played today
* Overall an average poly like other have stated. At the right price it could create a small user base but unlikely due to current market. Hitting partner noticed a slight increase in spin production from my normal setup and did not hurt my arm whatsoever.
* Tension: 60 full bed
* Lightning XX 17 62 full bed
* Aeropro Drive Cortex (16x19)
* Low to average power
* Little to no feel (mainly due to tension)
* Held solid in the 2 hours I played today
* Overall an average poly like other have stated. At the right price it could create a small user base but unlikely due to current market. Hitting partner noticed a slight increase in spin production from my normal setup and did not hurt my arm whatsoever.
serve stopper
Rookie
361 nation review by serve stopper
As i review this string i must find it funny that today was the last day that the lights would go on outside now lets get on the review.
string tension 59 GROUNDSTROKES/RETURN
power-when it came to ground strokes this had a lot of power, although it was so stiff it started to hurt my arm
feel- the ball would not bite the string it would just bounce off like a wall too stiff
control- This string had no control what so ever when i wanted to hit it cross court forehand it would not allow it my shot making was so off it was not funny
Volleys
power-when it came to power on my volleys they were great i couldn't help but want to go up to the net (i hate the net)
control- I could place most of my volleys were i wanted but not all of them mostly it was good control
feel -the feel was just way to stiff on my part
serve
power- When serving i found that the power was the upside in it.when i got my first serve in i was almost unreturnable
control- I could not really choose where to place my serve when using these strings
feel-once again the feel was really stiff and i can't help repeating myself when i say its STIFF
the power deserves a 6/10 maybe because it can give a a lot power but we still need to control the power
the control deserves a 7/10 if it were just groundstrokes and serve it would fail but the volleying from this string improved me a little
the feel deserves a 4/10 for lack of it
hopefully this review will prove that i really do want to review more things from you guys. I was honored to review this string, but i want to review more please. i want to review racquets and other strings. THANK YOU SO MUCH
As i review this string i must find it funny that today was the last day that the lights would go on outside now lets get on the review.
string tension 59 GROUNDSTROKES/RETURN
power-when it came to ground strokes this had a lot of power, although it was so stiff it started to hurt my arm
feel- the ball would not bite the string it would just bounce off like a wall too stiff
control- This string had no control what so ever when i wanted to hit it cross court forehand it would not allow it my shot making was so off it was not funny
Volleys
power-when it came to power on my volleys they were great i couldn't help but want to go up to the net (i hate the net)
control- I could place most of my volleys were i wanted but not all of them mostly it was good control
feel -the feel was just way to stiff on my part
serve
power- When serving i found that the power was the upside in it.when i got my first serve in i was almost unreturnable
control- I could not really choose where to place my serve when using these strings
feel-once again the feel was really stiff and i can't help repeating myself when i say its STIFF
the power deserves a 6/10 maybe because it can give a a lot power but we still need to control the power
the control deserves a 7/10 if it were just groundstrokes and serve it would fail but the volleying from this string improved me a little
the feel deserves a 4/10 for lack of it
hopefully this review will prove that i really do want to review more things from you guys. I was honored to review this string, but i want to review more please. i want to review racquets and other strings. THANK YOU SO MUCH
ryushen21
Legend
Final review
This is quite possibly the first time that I have played with a string that seems to get better as you play with it. I don't mean in the sense that it requires a break in period like some other polys that I have played with. I mean that the more it is played with the better it is playing.
Power: Power has remained constantly low, which I like because it lets me take a nice big heavy swing at the ball. This is definitely a control oriented string and I like that.
Groundies: What can I say...they just get better and better. I would classify this as a flat hitter's string. It is very control oriented and seemed to respond best for me when taking a big flat swing. Spin production is still very, very good for a non-profiled/textured poly but not as good as I would like (re: my previous comments on the backhand slice).
Serves: Probably my favorite aspect of the game with this string. First serves were definitely better and faster due to the stiffness of the string. Second serves required more effort than usual but the results were pretty good.
Volleys: Loved the volleys with this string...crisp, precise, excellent.
This was a very good string. Definitely better than the offerings I have tested for other companies. If they make a profiled or textured version of this same string, I could very much see myself switching to it.
This is quite possibly the first time that I have played with a string that seems to get better as you play with it. I don't mean in the sense that it requires a break in period like some other polys that I have played with. I mean that the more it is played with the better it is playing.
Power: Power has remained constantly low, which I like because it lets me take a nice big heavy swing at the ball. This is definitely a control oriented string and I like that.
Groundies: What can I say...they just get better and better. I would classify this as a flat hitter's string. It is very control oriented and seemed to respond best for me when taking a big flat swing. Spin production is still very, very good for a non-profiled/textured poly but not as good as I would like (re: my previous comments on the backhand slice).
Serves: Probably my favorite aspect of the game with this string. First serves were definitely better and faster due to the stiffness of the string. Second serves required more effort than usual but the results were pretty good.
Volleys: Loved the volleys with this string...crisp, precise, excellent.
This was a very good string. Definitely better than the offerings I have tested for other companies. If they make a profiled or textured version of this same string, I could very much see myself switching to it.
yolowhi
New User
Tension: 58 lbs as a full set
Regular Set Up: Black Code (17) full set up at 58 lbs.
String Pattern: 16 by 18
Power: The strings offered solid power, on all shots
Feel: The strings did not feel very good (stiff)
Tension Maintenance: Was still good after many hitting sessions
Overall: I liked these strings but it took a few minutes to get used
to the feeling. Once I got comfortable with the strings they played
much better. I would consider buying the strings if the price was right,
but I still prefer a shaped polyester.
Regular Set Up: Black Code (17) full set up at 58 lbs.
String Pattern: 16 by 18
Power: The strings offered solid power, on all shots
Feel: The strings did not feel very good (stiff)
Tension Maintenance: Was still good after many hitting sessions
Overall: I liked these strings but it took a few minutes to get used
to the feeling. Once I got comfortable with the strings they played
much better. I would consider buying the strings if the price was right,
but I still prefer a shaped polyester.
hyperwarrior
Professional
Can we string in hybrid?
Review
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
Full set strung at 53 pounds
Your regular string set up
I usually string with Polystar Energy, strung at 50-55 pounds depending on the weather
String pattern of your racquet
I use a K Pro Staff 88, 16 x 19
Power (or lack there of)
The string was a little lower in power compared to the Polystar Energy. I noticed that the string was stiff after stringing. I did not get the usual pop that I'm used to, my ball flight was similar to the PS but the ball did not explode or "kick" after the bounce.
Feel
Feel of the string is not bad, although it strung up tighter it was not uncomfortable.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
I used the string for a few hours and the tension is ok, I do feel the string drop tension like all strings.
Overall comments and feedback
This string isn't going to be one of my "go to" strings, it is a decent string but if it is cheap. If they try to sell it at Luxillon prices, then you will be wasting your money and you are better off buying Luxillon.
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
Full set strung at 53 pounds
Your regular string set up
I usually string with Polystar Energy, strung at 50-55 pounds depending on the weather
String pattern of your racquet
I use a K Pro Staff 88, 16 x 19
Power (or lack there of)
The string was a little lower in power compared to the Polystar Energy. I noticed that the string was stiff after stringing. I did not get the usual pop that I'm used to, my ball flight was similar to the PS but the ball did not explode or "kick" after the bounce.
Feel
Feel of the string is not bad, although it strung up tighter it was not uncomfortable.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
I used the string for a few hours and the tension is ok, I do feel the string drop tension like all strings.
Overall comments and feedback
This string isn't going to be one of my "go to" strings, it is a decent string but if it is cheap. If they try to sell it at Luxillon prices, then you will be wasting your money and you are better off buying Luxillon.
djNEiGht
Legend
tennisfreak565
Rookie
Ok here are my thoughts
How it was used: 361 Nation 16 at 55(mains) Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 16 at 58(crosses)
Racquet(Vortex ES 100)
String Pattern: Tight
Satisfied: :|
Regular String: Any Poly but probably RPM Blast
Playing Style: Aggresive Baseliner/advanced junior
Tension Maitnence: Very Good
First off i read all the other reviews before i strung this and it seemed like everyone thought it was very low powered. Well not at all to me i found too much power, inconsistent control, no feel, barely any spin(can't live without), and the real reason i cut this string out after 2 days is it's the first string to ever give me a lot of arm pain. Not even Luxilon could compare to this! But i must say when i got to set up and take a clean shot i was hitting very good but at my level i don't have the time to set up for every ball. I think i may want to experiment with this string again so if TW gets it i probably will to. Thanks for letting me playtest TW!
How it was used: 361 Nation 16 at 55(mains) Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 16 at 58(crosses)
Racquet(Vortex ES 100)
String Pattern: Tight
Satisfied: :|
Regular String: Any Poly but probably RPM Blast
Playing Style: Aggresive Baseliner/advanced junior
Tension Maitnence: Very Good
First off i read all the other reviews before i strung this and it seemed like everyone thought it was very low powered. Well not at all to me i found too much power, inconsistent control, no feel, barely any spin(can't live without), and the real reason i cut this string out after 2 days is it's the first string to ever give me a lot of arm pain. Not even Luxilon could compare to this! But i must say when i got to set up and take a clean shot i was hitting very good but at my level i don't have the time to set up for every ball. I think i may want to experiment with this string again so if TW gets it i probably will to. Thanks for letting me playtest TW!
A
AlexDK09
Guest
Got them today, will review them in December after I played a tournament with it, or does there is a deadline for the review?
ryangoring
Professional
Got mine(s), and will string up later........
WitheringDemise
Rookie
Received mine today...will string it up in 2~3 days since I just restrung my racket 4 days ago.
Wes_Loves_Dunlop
Professional
Guidelines for your review:
•Tension it is strung
- Strung in a full bed in a Dunlop 4D 200. Strung at 50 lbs.
•Your regular string set up
- Reg string set up is hybrid of babolat vs team/ lux ace 18g
•String pattern of your racquet
- 18x20
•Power (or lack there of)
- I felt that the string was underpowered mainly because it is a 16g poly in an 18x20 string pattern. Didnt feel too lively but didnt expect it to.
•Feel
- The feel was decent. Nothing compared to my usual strings, but for a full 16g poly, not too bad. Better than full lux.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
- The tension maintence after 12 hours is a little better than an avg poly. Playability started to decrease after 8 hours
•Overall comments and feedback
- Overall playability wasnt too bad. Spin was about average but nothing extraordinary. Seems like a all around decent poly, kind of like pro supex big ace.
I personally wouldnt use it again, but someone looking for a poly that does everythin decently, would want to check this out
•Tension it is strung
- Strung in a full bed in a Dunlop 4D 200. Strung at 50 lbs.
•Your regular string set up
- Reg string set up is hybrid of babolat vs team/ lux ace 18g
•String pattern of your racquet
- 18x20
•Power (or lack there of)
- I felt that the string was underpowered mainly because it is a 16g poly in an 18x20 string pattern. Didnt feel too lively but didnt expect it to.
•Feel
- The feel was decent. Nothing compared to my usual strings, but for a full 16g poly, not too bad. Better than full lux.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
- The tension maintence after 12 hours is a little better than an avg poly. Playability started to decrease after 8 hours
•Overall comments and feedback
- Overall playability wasnt too bad. Spin was about average but nothing extraordinary. Seems like a all around decent poly, kind of like pro supex big ace.
I personally wouldnt use it again, but someone looking for a poly that does everythin decently, would want to check this out
vmosrafa08
Semi-Pro
I just strung my racquet with the string at 58 tension- I can't wait to test it out! I will post my results soon.
Seth
Legend
-Strung at 55, full bed, in a BLX 6.1 95 18x20. My set was 16g.
-Usual set-up is Lux ALU mains at 57, NXT crosses at 57
-18x20 pattern
-Fairly underpowered, but then again my string bed is 18x20 and shouldn't be too strong
-I preferred it to full Lux, but not to full Pro Hurricane if that tells you anything.
-Not too much experience with full poly beds, but I felt this held up pretty well. Over 4 doubles matches, it still felt crisp.
-I would like to try this as a hybrid with my usual NXT. Should have done that in the first place. Overall an enjoyable playtest. I liked the pace I got off my serve, and the crispness of volleys. The underpowered aspect of the string was mainly present with groundstrokes.
-Usual set-up is Lux ALU mains at 57, NXT crosses at 57
-18x20 pattern
-Fairly underpowered, but then again my string bed is 18x20 and shouldn't be too strong
-I preferred it to full Lux, but not to full Pro Hurricane if that tells you anything.
-Not too much experience with full poly beds, but I felt this held up pretty well. Over 4 doubles matches, it still felt crisp.
-I would like to try this as a hybrid with my usual NXT. Should have done that in the first place. Overall an enjoyable playtest. I liked the pace I got off my serve, and the crispness of volleys. The underpowered aspect of the string was mainly present with groundstrokes.
hescobal
Rookie
I think i've reached a point where there was enough tension loss for me to cut out the strings. I estimate 10 hours hitting and playing sets
Received the string last Saturday and strung it immediately. Loose a couple lbs 24 hrs after stringing.
Tension it is strung: 17G, 50 lbs. Full bed. Youtek Prestige MP 18x20
Your regular string set up: Genesis Black Magic 17G, 53 lbs. Full bed.
String pattern of your racquet: 18x20
Power (or lack there of): On the low side. I'm able to take a full swing and managed to keep it in play most of the time. I hit with a lot of top spin. I would say the spin potiential is about the same as Black Magic.
Feel: Initially I thought this string will be very stiff based on the previous reviews and during stringing, but after the first 2.5 hrs of play, my arm did not sore. Maybe because I strung it at 50 lbs. Did a lot of volley in drill clinic. Love the feel.
Control: Nice control. I love the control and feel for volleys. Did several drop shots winner in mixed doubles.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): Strung @ 50, 48 after 24 hrs rest, 46 after 2.5 hrs hit Sunday, 44 hrs today after 1.5 hrs double play last night. I'm using Racquettune to measure the tension.
Overall comments and feedback
I would rate this string similar to black magic with a tad better in feel and control. Like most reviewer, If the price range is similar to Black Magic, I would consider to use this string.
some picture I took:
Thanks to TW for including me for this playtest. Would love to do playtest in the future.
Tension it is strung: 17G, 50 lbs. Full bed. Youtek Prestige MP 18x20
Your regular string set up: Genesis Black Magic 17G, 53 lbs. Full bed.
String pattern of your racquet: 18x20
Power (or lack there of): On the low side. I'm able to take a full swing and managed to keep it in play most of the time. I hit with a lot of top spin. I would say the spin potiential is about the same as Black Magic.
Feel: Initially I thought this string will be very stiff based on the previous reviews and during stringing, but after the first 2.5 hrs of play, my arm did not sore. Maybe because I strung it at 50 lbs. Did a lot of volley in drill clinic. Love the feel.
Control: Nice control. I love the control and feel for volleys. Did several drop shots winner in mixed doubles.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension): Strung @ 50, 48 after 24 hrs rest, 46 after 2.5 hrs hit Sunday, 44 hrs today after 1.5 hrs double play last night. I'm using Racquettune to measure the tension.
Overall comments and feedback
I would rate this string similar to black magic with a tad better in feel and control. Like most reviewer, If the price range is similar to Black Magic, I would consider to use this string.
some picture I took:
Thanks to TW for including me for this playtest. Would love to do playtest in the future.
goran_ace
Hall of Fame
Just wanted to bump this question...
...because I have not yet had a chance to give it a thorough playtest. I plan on stringing it in a hybrid with PSGD or Gosen OG crosses (I am not comfortable playing a full poly bed) on Friday and playing with it for two weeks or until it breaks. I just didn't want the TW admins to think I'm not grateful for the sample and/or was not going to review it.
...because I have not yet had a chance to give it a thorough playtest. I plan on stringing it in a hybrid with PSGD or Gosen OG crosses (I am not comfortable playing a full poly bed) on Friday and playing with it for two weeks or until it breaks. I just didn't want the TW admins to think I'm not grateful for the sample and/or was not going to review it.
Bhagi Katbamna
Legend
First, let me say thanks to TW and 361Nation for sending me the string to try.
here is my review:
•Tension it is strung
- Strung in a full bed in a Boris Becker Delta Core legend at 52 lb
•Your regular string set up
Generic poly and Wilson NXT multi filament hybrid(multi on crosses) at 54lb
•String pattern of your racquet
- 18x20
•Power (or lack there of)
Adequate. I needed more full swings for the same results as with the hybrid. Control was still good even with the bigger swings though.
•Feel
- The feel was decent. I have had better feel with gut(of course) and also Kirschbaum PL II. Better than Wilson Enduro Mono which I have tried before also.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
It was OK. I felt it drop off after about 4 to 6 hours.
•Overall comments and feedback
- Overall playability wasnt too bad. Spin OK. Better spin than synth gut and hybrid set up. Never have used a textured poly befor so cannot compare it to something like that. Seems like a all around decent poly, kind of like pacific poly soft.
I would use it again but would probably put it in a hybrid with synth gut or multi filament gut. But it is a good poly for those that use full poly.
here is my review:
•Tension it is strung
- Strung in a full bed in a Boris Becker Delta Core legend at 52 lb
•Your regular string set up
Generic poly and Wilson NXT multi filament hybrid(multi on crosses) at 54lb
•String pattern of your racquet
- 18x20
•Power (or lack there of)
Adequate. I needed more full swings for the same results as with the hybrid. Control was still good even with the bigger swings though.
•Feel
- The feel was decent. I have had better feel with gut(of course) and also Kirschbaum PL II. Better than Wilson Enduro Mono which I have tried before also.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
It was OK. I felt it drop off after about 4 to 6 hours.
•Overall comments and feedback
- Overall playability wasnt too bad. Spin OK. Better spin than synth gut and hybrid set up. Never have used a textured poly befor so cannot compare it to something like that. Seems like a all around decent poly, kind of like pacific poly soft.
I would use it again but would probably put it in a hybrid with synth gut or multi filament gut. But it is a good poly for those that use full poly.
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Received mine on 10/28, thanks TW. Strung and played 2x 1hr sessions. Here is my brief review:
• Tension it is strung - 60lbs full set 16g
• Your regular string set up - Prince synthetic gut @ 60lbs
• String pattern of your racquet - 18x19
• Power - low but decent power, good for flat groundies, I can swing as hard as I want without worry it going long.
• Feel - not much feel, a little stiff
• Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension) after 2 hours and it has not lost much tension.
• Overall comments and feedback = Overall, I think this is a decent string for flat hitter and I like the color. The low side is it is not quite spin friendly and I dont like the hitting sound.
• Tension it is strung - 60lbs full set 16g
• Your regular string set up - Prince synthetic gut @ 60lbs
• String pattern of your racquet - 18x19
• Power - low but decent power, good for flat groundies, I can swing as hard as I want without worry it going long.
• Feel - not much feel, a little stiff
• Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension) after 2 hours and it has not lost much tension.
• Overall comments and feedback = Overall, I think this is a decent string for flat hitter and I like the color. The low side is it is not quite spin friendly and I dont like the hitting sound.
Jim A
Professional
Thanks to TW for sending out a sample
Tension it is strung: 60, its cold here in Denver...62 in the spring/summer
Your regular string set up: Pro Hurricane @ 60/62
String pattern of your racquet: 16*19 (Prince Speedport Tour w/hole inserts)
Power: Average for a poly, didn't feel much different to me than PH
Feel: Decent ball pocketing and touch around the net. I don't venture in too often to the net but volleys were crisp as was access to touch
Tension maintenance - I have about 5 hours of play on it now, played 3 sets of singles today in some cooler (45) weather..and definitely lost some more tension..still doable but I think my PH/PHT holds it a touch better so far...if this is as much as it loses we'll be ok...
Overall comments and feedback: I liked this a bit more than anticipated. Picked it up, did some drill, hit a few serves and used it in a match this afternoon. Everything felt right from the start, could hit my shots without having to change anything (Deuce court serve down the T, inside in forehand and slice backhand).
The slice had a bit more bite than I would have anticipated and was a nice surprise. I'd be interested in a textured version of this string even more now that I've played it a bit
Also was easy on the shoulder, I'm thinking its between PH and PHT in stiffness..
Tension it is strung: 60, its cold here in Denver...62 in the spring/summer
Your regular string set up: Pro Hurricane @ 60/62
String pattern of your racquet: 16*19 (Prince Speedport Tour w/hole inserts)
Power: Average for a poly, didn't feel much different to me than PH
Feel: Decent ball pocketing and touch around the net. I don't venture in too often to the net but volleys were crisp as was access to touch
Tension maintenance - I have about 5 hours of play on it now, played 3 sets of singles today in some cooler (45) weather..and definitely lost some more tension..still doable but I think my PH/PHT holds it a touch better so far...if this is as much as it loses we'll be ok...
Overall comments and feedback: I liked this a bit more than anticipated. Picked it up, did some drill, hit a few serves and used it in a match this afternoon. Everything felt right from the start, could hit my shots without having to change anything (Deuce court serve down the T, inside in forehand and slice backhand).
The slice had a bit more bite than I would have anticipated and was a nice surprise. I'd be interested in a textured version of this string even more now that I've played it a bit
Also was easy on the shoulder, I'm thinking its between PH and PHT in stiffness..
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Tension it is strung: I tested two different setups:
Regular string set up: Topspin Cyberflash 17g @ 50 lbs main with Forten Nylon 16g @ 52 lbs cross
String pattern of your racquet: 16 x 19 Head Speed MP
Power: Quite a lot actually. I recommend letting it sit over night after stringing it just to get a more predictable power curve due to tension loss however.
Feel: When I first started hitting with it, my initial impression was that this stuff felt like I was hitting with a board. After about 50-100 or so shots it loosened up quite nicely and gave some really nice feel. Very crisp and great topspin on groundstrokes with very crisp and precise volleys. I had a lot of fun aiming for the lines with this string.
Tension maintenance: Very noticeable at first (first 100-150 shots), then more of a linear dropoff. I never got to the point of it feeling way too trampoliney or dead before it or the cross broke though. I especially liked it when paired with RIP Control.
Overall comments and feedback: GREAT string! I like this stuff a lot. The main factor that would make me change to it however, would be the price point honestly. Price is a huge factor for me currently and this string just isn't that massive of a change from my current setup to move away from it if it costs more (and given the marketing and rumor that it's Prince, it probably will). Overall, I think it's a very solid string; I had lots of fun with it and I'm sure it will do well, especially for people who like green.
Thanks for the playtest!
361 17g @ 50 lbs main with Head RIP Control @ 52 lbs cross
361 17g @ 50 lbs main with Forten Nylon 16g @ 52 lbs cross
Regular string set up: Topspin Cyberflash 17g @ 50 lbs main with Forten Nylon 16g @ 52 lbs cross
String pattern of your racquet: 16 x 19 Head Speed MP
Power: Quite a lot actually. I recommend letting it sit over night after stringing it just to get a more predictable power curve due to tension loss however.
Feel: When I first started hitting with it, my initial impression was that this stuff felt like I was hitting with a board. After about 50-100 or so shots it loosened up quite nicely and gave some really nice feel. Very crisp and great topspin on groundstrokes with very crisp and precise volleys. I had a lot of fun aiming for the lines with this string.
Tension maintenance: Very noticeable at first (first 100-150 shots), then more of a linear dropoff. I never got to the point of it feeling way too trampoliney or dead before it or the cross broke though. I especially liked it when paired with RIP Control.
Overall comments and feedback: GREAT string! I like this stuff a lot. The main factor that would make me change to it however, would be the price point honestly. Price is a huge factor for me currently and this string just isn't that massive of a change from my current setup to move away from it if it costs more (and given the marketing and rumor that it's Prince, it probably will
). Overall, I think it's a very solid string; I had lots of fun with it and I'm sure it will do well, especially for people who like green.Thanks for the playtest!
XFactorer
Hall of Fame
Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
55 pounds
Your regular string set up
Full bed of Poly Star Energy 16/17 at 60 lbs
String pattern of your racquet
16x19
Power (or lack there of)
Somewhere in the middle
Feel
Thin gauge adds to the feel, but it gives me standard touch.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Tension seems to be holding up just fine. Nothing feels like it's changed in a week which is good.
Overall comments and feedback
When you try some new things in life, you have the "LOVE IT!" or "HATE IT!" reaction. For me, this was a "Oh, it hits just fine" reaction. I neither loved it nor wanted to cut it out after a hitting session. For me, it's a standard, run of the mill poly with a little extra touch and a whole lot of color. It seems the string gets more attention for its color and packaging than it does for its performance. If it comes to market as a cheaper string, I'd get it to hybrid with Topspin Cyber Blue for an awesome color pattern.
55 pounds
Your regular string set up
Full bed of Poly Star Energy 16/17 at 60 lbs
String pattern of your racquet
16x19
Power (or lack there of)
Somewhere in the middle
Feel
Thin gauge adds to the feel, but it gives me standard touch.
Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Tension seems to be holding up just fine. Nothing feels like it's changed in a week which is good.
Overall comments and feedback
When you try some new things in life, you have the "LOVE IT!" or "HATE IT!" reaction. For me, this was a "Oh, it hits just fine" reaction. I neither loved it nor wanted to cut it out after a hitting session. For me, it's a standard, run of the mill poly with a little extra touch and a whole lot of color. It seems the string gets more attention for its color and packaging than it does for its performance. If it comes to market as a cheaper string, I'd get it to hybrid with Topspin Cyber Blue for an awesome color pattern.
ODYSSEY Mk.4
Professional
My Racquet:Aero Storm
• Tension it is strung: 55lbs
• Your regular string set up: Big Ace @48
• String pattern of your racquet: 16x20
• Power : Low for me.
• Tension maintenance: overall thought it held on pretty damn well, not better than Big Ace.
• Overall comments and feedback: I loved the color, Stringing it wasn't bad at all. where i really struggled with this string was the feel. I felt it dropped my volley skills by having to out more on them. On ground strokes result were nice but it had this board like feel that just irked me. Cut it at 8 hours of singles play.
• Tension it is strung: 55lbs
• Your regular string set up: Big Ace @48
• String pattern of your racquet: 16x20
• Power : Low for me.
• Tension maintenance: overall thought it held on pretty damn well, not better than Big Ace.
• Overall comments and feedback: I loved the color, Stringing it wasn't bad at all. where i really struggled with this string was the feel. I felt it dropped my volley skills by having to out more on them. On ground strokes result were nice but it had this board like feel that just irked me. Cut it at 8 hours of singles play.
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•Tension it is strung
- Strung in a full bed in a Youtek Speed MP @ 57 lbs.
•Your regular string set up
- SPPP 1.23
•String pattern of your racquet
- 16x19
•Power
- Very lowpowered, which I like for my groundstrokes, didn't have to use much spin to control the ball. I served quite OK with it. Volleying was harder tho, but that's normal with these kind of strings.
•Feel
- Felt definately stiffer than SPPP I normally use, but I actually like a boardy feel. No arm problems during and after play tho.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
- cannot say yet, have to play more with the string to judge better about that. After the 3 hours I played with it this week it is still good.
•Overall comments and feedback
- Liked it, can see myself playing with the string in future if I find tension maintaincence to be reasonable and the price is fair. Liked the control of the string which made me able to hit flatter. Wouldn't pay more than 50-55 euros per reel tho (same as SPPP).
Thanks TW for sending me the string!
- Strung in a full bed in a Youtek Speed MP @ 57 lbs.
•Your regular string set up
- SPPP 1.23
•String pattern of your racquet
- 16x19
•Power
- Very lowpowered, which I like for my groundstrokes, didn't have to use much spin to control the ball. I served quite OK with it. Volleying was harder tho, but that's normal with these kind of strings.
•Feel
- Felt definately stiffer than SPPP I normally use, but I actually like a boardy feel. No arm problems during and after play tho.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
- cannot say yet, have to play more with the string to judge better about that. After the 3 hours I played with it this week it is still good.
•Overall comments and feedback
- Liked it, can see myself playing with the string in future if I find tension maintaincence to be reasonable and the price is fair. Liked the control of the string which made me able to hit flatter. Wouldn't pay more than 50-55 euros per reel tho (same as SPPP).
Thanks TW for sending me the string!
LanEvo
Hall of Fame
I got the Green Poly that the other Testers got.
* Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
Strung a full set @ 56lbs. on Babolat PDR.
* Your regular string set up
Usually Big Ace 16g Red/Prince XX Lightning 17g @ 56/58.
* String pattern of your racquet
16x19 for PDR.
* Power (or lack there of)
Low to Mid power for a poly. I liked the feel of serves, good spin, very nice control to swing as hard as you;d like and keep the ball in.. Volleys were nice bc of the low power. Had to adjust my power and strokes bc of full poly set-up. Groundstrokes were good after the tension dropped a bit. This poly is waiting for the user to supply the power.
* Feel
Good spin potential, felt boardy on mishits. Compared to full Big Ace, it is a bit stiffer. Initially, it was very stiff and boardy, but hitting for about 30 mins, and "breaking it in", its a very nice feel for all-around. Volleys were the best, nice pop feel and placement bc of the low power.
* Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Tension dropped a few pounds after hitting for an hours, I expected this. But after the "break in" period, the tension held for the rest of the time. No string movement even when tension dropped.
* Overall comments and feedback
I enjoyed this string, if I had known earlier I would have made a hybrid. For a full job of this string, I would recommend a thinner gauge. For a hybrid, it would be perfect combo of spin and power. Full job at this gauge, gave control and lots of spin. I think if it was a bit thinner, there would be more spin and power for shots. I have more control over generating power on shots, so I would prefer the thinner gauge. I have played about 6 hours on it now, and it still feels good. Also, the color is awesome, I will definitely purchase this string, again to try some hybrids.
* Tension it is strung (please note if strung as hybrid or full set)
Strung a full set @ 56lbs. on Babolat PDR.
* Your regular string set up
Usually Big Ace 16g Red/Prince XX Lightning 17g @ 56/58.
* String pattern of your racquet
16x19 for PDR.
* Power (or lack there of)
Low to Mid power for a poly. I liked the feel of serves, good spin, very nice control to swing as hard as you;d like and keep the ball in.. Volleys were nice bc of the low power. Had to adjust my power and strokes bc of full poly set-up. Groundstrokes were good after the tension dropped a bit. This poly is waiting for the user to supply the power.
* Feel
Good spin potential, felt boardy on mishits. Compared to full Big Ace, it is a bit stiffer. Initially, it was very stiff and boardy, but hitting for about 30 mins, and "breaking it in", its a very nice feel for all-around. Volleys were the best, nice pop feel and placement bc of the low power.
* Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Tension dropped a few pounds after hitting for an hours, I expected this. But after the "break in" period, the tension held for the rest of the time. No string movement even when tension dropped.
* Overall comments and feedback
I enjoyed this string, if I had known earlier I would have made a hybrid. For a full job of this string, I would recommend a thinner gauge. For a hybrid, it would be perfect combo of spin and power. Full job at this gauge, gave control and lots of spin. I think if it was a bit thinner, there would be more spin and power for shots. I have more control over generating power on shots, so I would prefer the thinner gauge. I have played about 6 hours on it now, and it still feels good. Also, the color is awesome, I will definitely purchase this string, again to try some hybrids.
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My normal string is Prince Topspin 15L at 56 lbs
Tension: I strung it in a full bed at 56 lbs with no prestretch
String pattern: 16x19
Power: Power was a little low compared to the other polys I have used. A little more effort to get it deep, spin was good. Control was fantastic until after the tension loss. Once tension loss kicked in it was hard to control the ball and balls went long more often.
Feel: Feels just like any other poly I have used, a little deader than synthetic or natural gut. After about a week or two of play it felt REALLY dead, so it is pretty much like any other poly.
Tension maintenance: I find that this string loses a lot of tension really fast. This is my problem with polys and which is why my normal string is a synthetic. It acts just like most polys, the tension is fine until after a few hours (in my case 8ish hours). After that I felt like the ball just couldn't be controlled well off my strings.
Overall: I think this string is just like any other poly string. Tension loss is my biggest concern with this string as it loses a lot more tension than my original string. Initially spin and power were satisfactory for me. Compared to other polys power is a little lower but that isnt really a problem, it prevents you from overhitting so that is good. I like the color, overall I liked it but won't be rushing to order any of it when it comes out.
More info from a friend:
I lent my racquet with the string on it to a friend for an hour and he thought it was great. He normally uses Luxilon Big Banger. He said it had more spin more power more control. I was playing against him and I could feel him get more of his shots in (probably because it was lower powered) he was getting the ball deeper which was good, but I didn't see a difference in his spin production even though he said it improved.
Tension: I strung it in a full bed at 56 lbs with no prestretch
String pattern: 16x19
Power: Power was a little low compared to the other polys I have used. A little more effort to get it deep, spin was good. Control was fantastic until after the tension loss. Once tension loss kicked in it was hard to control the ball and balls went long more often.
Feel: Feels just like any other poly I have used, a little deader than synthetic or natural gut. After about a week or two of play it felt REALLY dead, so it is pretty much like any other poly.
Tension maintenance: I find that this string loses a lot of tension really fast. This is my problem with polys and which is why my normal string is a synthetic. It acts just like most polys, the tension is fine until after a few hours (in my case 8ish hours). After that I felt like the ball just couldn't be controlled well off my strings.
Overall: I think this string is just like any other poly string. Tension loss is my biggest concern with this string as it loses a lot more tension than my original string. Initially spin and power were satisfactory for me. Compared to other polys power is a little lower but that isnt really a problem, it prevents you from overhitting so that is good. I like the color, overall I liked it but won't be rushing to order any of it when it comes out.
More info from a friend:
I lent my racquet with the string on it to a friend for an hour and he thought it was great. He normally uses Luxilon Big Banger. He said it had more spin more power more control. I was playing against him and I could feel him get more of his shots in (probably because it was lower powered) he was getting the ball deeper which was good, but I didn't see a difference in his spin production even though he said it improved.
Ambivalent
Hall of Fame
Strung up at 57 lbs in the mains with hollow core pro crosses. Going to try and take it for a spin tomorrow.
ReopeningWed
Professional
I play with a K-Blade 98 strung with a full bed of MSV Hex 1.23g at 50/45 lbs.
•Tension it is strung
50/45 lbs to match my usual tension
•String pattern of your racquet
18x20
•Power (or lack there of)
Fairly low powered; I love taking rips at the balls and still having them drop in the court. The power of this 361 nation in 17g is in a very nice range for me.
•Feel
The string's feel was surprisingly pleasant. It wasn't soft and spongy like a multi or gut, but was very refreshing, for lack of a better word. Whenever I hit the ball in the sweet spot, it was like I was experiencing "new car smell" only in my arm and my hands.
The string pocketed very well too, but in a different way from MSV Hex. Absolutely a different feel from the poly's that I've tried so far.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Personally, I don't believe in tension drop affecting play, so I can't speak for maintenance. I can say though, that the strings felt great until they broke.
•Overall comments and feedback
The playability of the string was very nice; the strings played well until they broke (they lasted 12 hours). If I were to describe my preferred feel, it would be: soft, muted (opposite of springy), with a lot of ball pocketing.
The spin was strange in a good way; these strings didn't have that biting, grippy feel, but the string bed wasn't slippery at all. Spin seemed to come naturally as if it was available at my fingertips.
These strings fit the bill, and I would definitely switch to them if they were offered at a price similar to or better than MSV Hex.
•Tension it is strung
50/45 lbs to match my usual tension
•String pattern of your racquet
18x20
•Power (or lack there of)
Fairly low powered; I love taking rips at the balls and still having them drop in the court. The power of this 361 nation in 17g is in a very nice range for me.
•Feel
The string's feel was surprisingly pleasant. It wasn't soft and spongy like a multi or gut, but was very refreshing, for lack of a better word. Whenever I hit the ball in the sweet spot, it was like I was experiencing "new car smell" only in my arm and my hands.
The string pocketed very well too, but in a different way from MSV Hex. Absolutely a different feel from the poly's that I've tried so far.
•Tension maintenance (how long it holds its tension)
Personally, I don't believe in tension drop affecting play, so I can't speak for maintenance. I can say though, that the strings felt great until they broke.
•Overall comments and feedback
The playability of the string was very nice; the strings played well until they broke (they lasted 12 hours). If I were to describe my preferred feel, it would be: soft, muted (opposite of springy), with a lot of ball pocketing.
The spin was strange in a good way; these strings didn't have that biting, grippy feel, but the string bed wasn't slippery at all. Spin seemed to come naturally as if it was available at my fingertips.
These strings fit the bill, and I would definitely switch to them if they were offered at a price similar to or better than MSV Hex.
361 Nation review
Tension it is strung: Full set @53 lbs. in Dunlop Aerogel 4D 200
Your regular string set up: Solinco Tour Bite 16 @ 52 lbs
String pattern of your racquet: 18/20
Power: A little lower than average for co-poly.
Feel: About average.
Tension maintenance: Thus far, better than average for poly.
Overall comments and feedback: Ease of stringing about average for poly. String seems generally comparable with Technifibre Red Code. It's an o.k. string that is largely unremarkable. Neither excessively harsh nor soft; not powerful but not board-like. Nothing wrong with it, but lacks the sophisticated characteristics of co-polys like Solinco Barbed Wire, Babolat Pro Hurricane Feel, Technifibre Black Code, etc.
Tension it is strung: Full set @53 lbs. in Dunlop Aerogel 4D 200
Your regular string set up: Solinco Tour Bite 16 @ 52 lbs
String pattern of your racquet: 18/20
Power: A little lower than average for co-poly.
Feel: About average.
Tension maintenance: Thus far, better than average for poly.
Overall comments and feedback: Ease of stringing about average for poly. String seems generally comparable with Technifibre Red Code. It's an o.k. string that is largely unremarkable. Neither excessively harsh nor soft; not powerful but not board-like. Nothing wrong with it, but lacks the sophisticated characteristics of co-polys like Solinco Barbed Wire, Babolat Pro Hurricane Feel, Technifibre Black Code, etc.
