Out of Ideas on what to try next

[CosmosMpower]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

 

[Steve Huff]

You could move on to vintage rackets like the Snauwaert Ellipse Touch--93 sq in, low, low power, no vibration

 

[mhkeuns]

G360+ Prestige MP is pretty awesome, imo. Don’t let the “G” word deter you from demoing it. It is a nice (*real nice) stick.

 

[fundrazer]

Might not get quite the balance you want, but not just throw a leather grip on the Blade?

I'm also going to agree with poster above me, the 97hd should not feel sluggish. I know Karue who everybody here seems to be obsessed with now had mentioned it felt head heavy, but I don't recall anyone in the thread here or from the TW review feeling that way.

 

[Crashbaby]

As long you’re keen to play at a min 345 to 350 gram total weight after handle mods to reach the head light balance your chasing, then yes, both are worth getting. The Ezone will be an easier package to use with its lower sw.
However, unlike with the Ezone, the BP playtest will be an actual event! Finally satisfying the endlessly addictive curiosity of the true Holic that resides within!

 

[CosmosMpower]

Disconcerting that you find the 97hd "sluggish" b/c it isn't slow swinging at all.

Your choice of racquets is obviously self deluded narcissism as its quite clear your play would be optimized by a frame like the ezone 100.

Tried it, got tired of hitting the back fence. Even tried a blade 104 before years ago. Obviously you know my game inside and out since you’ve never played me. Trust me if I could abuse more power and still control it I would.

Also funny that a former d1 college/tour player and utr 15 had the same thoughts about me on the VCP HD in his review.

 

[CosmosMpower]

As long you’re keen to play at a min 345 to 350 gram total weight after handle mods to reach the head light balance your chasing, then yes, both are worth getting. The Ezone will be an easier package to use with its lower sw.
However, unlike with the Ezone, the BP playtest will be an actual event! Finally satisfying the endlessly addictive curiosity of the true Holic that resides within!

Does the EZT require handle mods to get a good balance? I thought it was already fairly head light and Yonex advertised specs are usually spot on unlike Wilson. If my V7 blade 18x20 was an actual 7 pts HL instead of 4 in reality I may have kept it.

 

[2nd Serve Ace]

Tried it, got tired of hitting the back fence. Even tried a blade 104 before years ago. Obviously you know my game inside and out since you’ve never played me. Trust me if I could abuse more power and still control it I would.

Also funny that a former d1 college/tour player and utr 15 had the same thoughts about me on the VCP HD in his review.

So you actually already had the ezone tour and now you want to be talked into trying it again!?

I have understandings for racquetholism, but seriously, you're going to have to accept some flak at times for this degree of pickiness.

 

[Crashbaby]

Does the EZT require handle mods to get a good balance? I thought it was already fairly head light and Yonex advertised specs are usually spot on unlike Wilson. If my V7 blade 18x20 was an actual 7 pts HL instead of 4 in reality I may have kept it.

Mine needed a leather grip to get to 32.1cm balance.
Going by your above racquet choices, and I also have the Vcore 95 2018 as well. I don’t believe you will like the EZT in stock form. It has a much higher swingweight than your 95’s and that gets amplified by the balance. It results in a much head heavier feel than what you are currently enjoying.

 

[CosmosMpower]

So you actually already had the ezone tour and now you want to be talked into trying it again!?

I have understandings for racquetholism, but seriously, you're going to have to accept some flak at times for this degree of pickiness.

No idea where you got the idea that I already tried the EZT before, I was replying about the Ezone 100 you previously mentioned. At this point you’re clearly adding zero value and no one in this thread cares about your opinion. Good thing this forum has an ignore button!

 

[Ryebread]

Please try the Speed 360+ MP. Ignore the balance stats. Just hit with it!

It is lighter. Stable but comfy.

 

[Nanhith]

Please try the Speed 360+ MP. Ignore the balance stats. Just hit with it!

It is lighter. Stable but comfy.

I prefer racquets similar to the OP. I tried the speed 360+ MP, but couldn't make it work with my one handed backhand. I figured the low static weight, high swing weight wasn't for me. Or the 100 in2 head. Felt hard to maneuver. Willing to give it another chance in the spring though.

 

[VaMoose98]

Try the diadem elevate tour. 98 with a 16x20 pattern

 

[CosmosMpower]

Please try the Speed 360+ MP. Ignore the balance stats. Just hit with it!

It is lighter. Stable but comfy.

Looked at the specs, interesting and not typically something I would try but maneuverable, stable and comfortable are all things I like so I'll check it out. Thanks!

I prefer racquets similar to the OP. I tried the speed 360+ MP, but couldn't make it work with my one handed backhand. I figured the low static weight, high swing weight wasn't for me. Or the 100 in2 head. Felt hard to maneuver. Willing to give it another chance in the spring though.

Did you try the Pro by chance? Specs look really similar to what I typically like.

 

[Power Player]

Does the EZT require handle mods to get a good balance? I thought it was already fairly head light and Yonex advertised specs are usually spot on unlike Wilson. If my V7 blade 18x20 was an actual 7 pts HL instead of 4 in reality I may have kept it.

you will hate the BP if the v7 is sluggish for you

 

[CosmosMpower]

you will hate the BP if the v7 is sluggish for you

Keep in mind Wilson QC is bad and I think I got an extremely out of spec frame. It's supposed to be 7 pts HL per spec and mine was 4 unstrung, and then it became 2 pts HL once strung. Wilson told me this was "normal". Mine was also a little over spec on static weight as well. I didn't feel like gambling again hoping to get one more head light.

I haven't read much on the BP but thought it was more of a H22 pro stock platform frame that you can weight up to your specs, is that not the case?

 

[CosmosMpower]

Mine needed a leather grip to get to 32.1cm balance.
Going by your above racquet choices, and I also have the Vcore 95 2018 as well. I don’t believe you will like the EZT in stock form. It has a much higher swingweight than your 95’s and that gets amplified by the balance. It results in a much head heavier feel than what you are currently enjoying.

Thanks for the feedback. I don't mind higher static and swing weight but I don't like it paired with close to even balance. For instance my TC95 63 RA 18x20's are around 345 grams and in the mid 340's SW strung and feels great for singles at 9 pts HL strung. I think 4 pts HL on the EZT might not be head light enough as you mentioned, although 332 SW isn't horrible. I'm guessing that was strung with a 17 or 16 gauge poly per TW spec so it might even be less since I use a 1.15 thin poly.

 

[mad dog1]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

If you didn’t like the blade v7 18/20 head heavier balance, you will experience the same with the blade pro.

 

[socallefty]

Pure Strike - either the Tour or the 18x20. I like similar specs to you and play with the PST.
Prestige and Gravity - see which specs you like before picking one of their models to demo
Dunlop - CX200 Tour or SX300 Tour

 

[Power Player]

Keep in mind Wilson QC is bad and I think I got an extremely out of spec frame. It's supposed to be 7 pts HL per spec and mine was 4 unstrung, and then it became 2 pts HL once strung. Wilson told me this was "normal". Mine was also a little over spec on static weight as well. I didn't feel like gambling again hoping to get one more head light.

I haven't read much on the BP but thought it was more of a H22 pro stock platform frame that you can weight up to your specs, is that not the case?

its is but they come really headheavy. So if you want it with 5 pts hl you may have a 345- 350 sw frame at 5pts hl balance and a 335 or so gram frame.So not easy to swing unless you like that kind of spec.

 

[kblades]

I’ve tried many of the same racquets you mentioned and share similar feedback. One racquet that intrigues me on paper but haven’t tried yet is the Pure Aero VS. It has a 16x20 pattern like the Vcore 95 but in a 98.

 

[Ryebread]

I’ve tried many of the same racquets you mentioned and share similar feedback. One racquet that intrigues me on paper but haven’t tried yet is the Pure Aero VS. It has a 16x20 pattern like the Vcore 95 but in a 98.

I played this stick for months. It’s hollow feel led me astray.

 

[Ryebread]

Looked at the specs, interesting and not typically something I would try but maneuverable, stable and comfortable are all things I like so I'll check it out. Thanks!


Did you try the Pro by chance? Specs look really similar to what I typically like.

demo both of them for sure.
the weight in combination with it’s performance of the MP may surprise you.
I’m hitting with a 5.0 and the MP is not getting pushed around. I’m a 4.0.

 

[kblades]

I played this stick for months. It’s hollow feel led me astray.

Thanks for the feedback...I used to visit this forum on a daily basis, but ever since it stopped being functional on Tapatalk, I haven’t been on here. So I missed out on most of the feedback from the racquets that were released last year such as the PA VS.

 

[PT280 Fan]

Based on the sticks in your bag, I would recommend the Donnay Xenecore Pro One 97 (16/19)- presently my numero uno. It just does everything well. I was coming from the vaunted Head PT280 and this frame was apparently modeled after the PT57a. However, this racket has a stiffer upper hoop than my PT280, with a slightly thicker beam so even though it has a similar RA and a slightly lower static weight to the PT280, it has a bigger sweet spot and hits a bigger ball and the more open string pattern also provides easy spin.

Also, like you, I seem to enjoy testing new rackets (not demoing them but living with them). In any event, I just recently purchased a couple of Volkl Super G 10 mid 330s (96") 16/19. Just played three sets on it today with the previous owner's strings and color me impressed. Even though it's strung with multi 5lbs higher than I like my rackets, it has so many positives it looks like a punch up is in the works between this and my Donnays. Now it comes in at 12.3 strung which is a deal breaker for some, but what easy power particularly on serve. And the comfort for a 65 RA strung tight was incredible. I'm inclined to believe based on my experience and a friend's that Volkl may have the best comfort technology in play right now. Also, the Super G 10 no longer seems to be available as a stock item but you might consider a VSense or C10 model.

 

[Papa Mango]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

I was so excited about the new Vcore 95, but man it's meh. If they had just added a little bit of pop to the older Vcores I would have been very happy.
But this hoop enlarging business seems to have made the racket tinny compared to the original and it feels like it's going to need a lot more additional weight.
Back to your question:
1. The Orange Creamsicle - Radical Pro 2021, I was pleasantly surprised with this stick and of all my recent demos this is on the top of my list. Excellent blend of power and control on this one.
3. Wilson Pro Staff non RF.
4. If you haven't tried these yet, The Prince Phantom's 100 X or P. Looking at your list, the P might be more up your alley. (yes 100 square inches but the P plays smaller than that).

 

[Anton]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

Well that's easy - Pro Tour 2.0 is your ticket to ride.

 

[ryushen21]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

Some interesting observations you have had here. I never found the Yonex 97HD to be sluggish but it is low powered so you have to swing full every time. But you also mentioned that you were hitting the back fence with it so maybe some of that comes down to technique.

Just a suggestion to you as I see that, like I used to be, you are dedicated to the denser string patterns...try not to focus as much on the count (18x20 vs 16x19) and instead look at the density of the actual pattern. You may be surprised to discover that some 16x19 frames have a denser central section and more space towards the edges. This gives you all the benefits of a 16x19 frame with a good amount of control. Just a thought though.

But what I notice lacking from you list...have you not tried the Wilson Ultra Tour 2.0? It's GOAT level.

 

[CosmosMpower]

Some interesting observations you have had here. I never found the Yonex 97HD to be sluggish but it is low powered so you have to swing full every time. But you also mentioned that you were hitting the back fence with it so maybe some of that comes down to technique.

Just a suggestion to you as I see that, like I used to be, you are dedicated to the denser string patterns...try not to focus as much on the count (18x20 vs 16x19) and instead look at the density of the actual pattern. You may be surprised to discover that some 16x19 frames have a denser central section and more space towards the edges. This gives you all the benefits of a 16x19 frame with a good amount of control. Just a thought though.

But what I notice lacking from you list...have you not tried the Wilson Ultra Tour 2.0? It's GOAT level.

My comment about hitting the back fence was in regards to using tweener frames like Ezone 100, Pure drive etc. I found that the 97HD was pretty low powered, perhaps leading

I forgot that I did try Wilson Ultra Tour 2.0 (Monfils) a few years ago. It was obviously too light in stock form and I customized it. I added a leather grip and some lead at 3 and 9 to counter weight but couldn't get it to feel just right.

I also tried the original Prince Phantom 100 (o ports). Really loved the racquet but couldn't get used to the o port springy feel. I need to check out the new gen of Phantoms for sure, probably with normal grommets.

I also tried the 2nd gen Pure Strike 18x20, liked it but too stiff to use full time.

 

[ryushen21]

My comment about hitting the back fence was in regards to using tweener frames like Ezone 100, Pure drive etc.

I forgot that I did try Wilson Ultra Tour 2.0 (Monfils) a few years ago. It was obviously too light in stock form and I customized it. I added a leather grip and some lead at 3 and 9 to counter weight but couldn't get it to feel just right.

I also tried the original Prince Phantom 100 (o ports). Really loved the racquet but couldn't get used to the o port springy feel. I need to check out the new gen of Phantoms for sure, probably with normal grommets.

The EZone 100 is my current frame. You definitely have to use topspin to manage your shots more but for a 100, it like to drive a flat ball too.

Have you considered checking out the Blade Pro 18x20? It's getting rave reviews and if you're willing to play the Wilson QC lottery you could get a real winner.

 

[CosmosMpower]

The EZone 100 is my current frame. You definitely have to use topspin to manage your shots more but for a 100, it like to drive a flat ball too.

Have you considered checking out the Blade Pro 18x20? It's getting rave reviews and if you're willing to play the Wilson QC lottery you could get a real winner.

Definitely considered BP but some users just mentioned that it's pretty head heavy similar to retail blade V7 and by the time you weight it up to make it head light then it could get pretty chunky.

 

[ryushen21]

Definitely considered BP but some users just mentioned that it's pretty head heavy similar to retail blade V7 and by the time you weight it up to make it head light then it could get pretty chunky.

Definitely considered BP but some users just mentioned that it's pretty head heavy similar to retail blade V7 and by the time you weight it up to make it head light then it could get pretty chunky.

I'd honestly suggest you take another crack at the UT. It's too good a frame not too. For mine, I added a leather grip and 2g of lead at 3/9/12 and that created a perfect balance and swing for my tastes.

 

[CosmosMpower]

I'd honestly suggest you take another crack at the UT. It's too good a frame not too. For mine, I added a leather grip and 2g of lead at 3/9/12 and that created a perfect balance and swing for my tastes.

That is similar to what I did except I may have done more lead maybe 3.5 each at 9 and 12. It gave it a lot more power and stability but lost some of that magic maneuverability of the stock form.

 

[CosmosMpower]

Try the diadem elevate tour. 98 with a 16x20 pattern

That thing looks super interesting. Kind of reminds me of the K7 lime with a stiffer flex and a slightly more open pattern. I need to see if Diadem has a demo program. I bought some of their balls and love them, had not considered their racquets.

 

[ryushen21]

That is similar to what I did except I may have done more lead maybe 3.5 each at 9 and 12. It gave it a lot more power and stability but lost some of that magic maneuverability of the stock form.

Yeah, I overdid my first setup and turned it into a real log.

 

[silentkman]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

I'm jealous, I wish i had the gumption to try new racquets. The time, money etc is prohibitive. Keep us posted.

 

[CosmosMpower]

I'm jealous, I wish i had the gumption to try new racquets. The time, money etc is prohibitive. Keep us posted.

Time yes, money not too bad. I try and buy gently used racquets at a fair price and sell at the same, maybe lose 20-40 bucks to try for a while. I'm also very gentle on racquets, don't ever hit the ground and I string myself so that's not really a big $ factor.

 

[aaron_h27]

Disconcerting that you find the 97hd "sluggish" b/c it isn't slow swinging at all.

Your choice of racquets is obviously self deluded narcissism as its quite clear your play would be optimized by a frame like the ezone 100.

The 97hd is more sluggish than the vcore 95 due to the higher twistweight. It's also more sluggish than Pro Staff 97.

Most 97's on the market normally have a twistweight around 13.6, the 97 HD has a twistweight of 14.1 which is similar to that of 98-100 head sizes.

 

[2nd Serve Ace]

The 97hd is more sluggish than the vcore 95 due to the higher twistweight. It's also more sluggish than Pro Staff 97.

Most 97's on the market normally have a twistweight around 13.6, the 97 HD has a twistweight of 14.1 which is similar to that of 98-100 head sizes.

That's true, just find the thin beam makes it plenty manueverable. FYI, the ezone tour is 14.7 in TW so something to be aware of.

 

[aaron_h27]

That's true, just find the thin beam makes it plenty manueverable. FYI, the ezone tour is 14.7 in TW so something to be aware of.

Yep, not sure why they decided to do that, but I won't be trying the Ezone Tour for that reason.

I like to buy rackets with lower twistweights (in the 12-13 range) and just add lead if needed, that way im not playing with any dead weight.

 

[beltsman]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

Prestige MID. It's not a true 93 and not a wet noodle.

 

[PMF]

I've come to realize I like testing new racquets almost as much as playing tennis. I know what I typically like and out of ideas on what to try next. I think the 2021 Vcore 95 is going to be my new permanent match racquet for USTA (mostly doubles) but looking for ideas on what to try next. I typically like 95-98 sq inch racquets with thin, flexible beams, 7+ strung HL balance and tight string patterns. A little free power would be nice but I typically string mid to high 40's with a 18G hyper G.

I'll list the stuff that I've used recently and still keep in the bag and looking for some ideas of racquets I may not have thought of to try next. I haven't really looked at Head since the original Graphene line was a bust or other smaller companies like Technifibre.

Still in the bag:

Angell TC95 63 RA 18x20 - Great singles stick, lots of power, very head light, kind of heavy for doubles.
Angell TC97 18x20 - Similar to TC95, bit less power than TC95, bit stiffer
Angell K7 Lime - Good all around stick, less power than TC frames, more forgiving head size, good feel and flexy
Yonex Vcore 95 2021 - Just did the TW playtest (thanks again TW!) Loved it just like I liked my 2018 Vcore 95's which are going to a friend's bag

Tried recently but gone:

Blade V7 18x20 - Liked the power and feel but too sluggish for me, not head light enough wish they had a 7+ pts HL strung version, mine was 2 pts HL strung.
Vcore 95 2018 - Liked these but replaced by 2021 version
Vcore Pro 97 HD - Was hoping I'd love this since it's 18x20 but felt a bit sluggish similar to the Blade
Ezone 98 2018 (green) - Good all around, bit light, 16x19 string pattern wasn't the best for me, tended to hit with too much top spin and not drive the ball with my natural flatter swing.

I'm thinking about trying the Ezone Tour (wish it was 18x20), can the Blade Pro lab be setup with a more head light balance like a pro stock or are they also head heavy? Any other idea on racquets I might like?

Have you tried the Yonex Vcore Pro (310)? Paired with a lively string it’s a pretty good choice IMO. I had one for a few months last summer and really enjoyed it.

 

[CosmosMpower]

Have you tried the Yonex Vcore Pro (310)? Paired with a lively string it’s a pretty good choice IMO. I had one for a few months last summer and really enjoyed it.

I tried the previous gen navy blue and orange for a while. It felt pretty good overall but ended up not loving the 16x19 pattern. It might just be mental but my grip tends to creep from eastern to semi western when I use more open string patterns and I start brushing the ball too much which doesn't work well for my game.

 

[Vicious49]

Time yes, money not too bad. I try and buy gently used racquets at a fair price and sell at the same, maybe lose 20-40 bucks to try for a while. I'm also very gentle on racquets, don't ever hit the ground and I string myself so that's not really a big $ factor.

im pretty much the same way. Mainly try to pick up racquets at a discount or used so I don’t lose much money if I end up not liking them. i just got my own stringing machine so I dont lose much money on the stringing. I basically see my ownership of some of these frames as an extended demo.

 

[c0ppo]

- Prince 93P
- Prince Textreme 95
- Diadem Elevate Tour
- Head Prestige
- Head Gravity

We seem to like the same rackets. I've bolded out Diadem because I'm testing it out atm. It's really a great frame, foam filled, excellent feel, nice plow.

 

[CosmosMpower]

- Prince 93P
- Prince Textreme 95
- Diadem Elevate Tour
- Head Prestige
- Head Gravity

We seem to like the same rackets. I've bolded out Diadem because I'm testing it out atm. It's really a great frame, foam filled, excellent feel, nice plow.

Did not know that the Diadems are foam filled, I like the sound of that. I'm getting in touch with the local Diadem rep to see if I can get a demo of the Elevate tour.

I've briefly hit the 93P, it's too demanding for regular play. I've owned the 2015 Textreme Tour 95, liked that stick wish they made it in 18x20. Haven't tried any of the new Prestiges but did play with the Prestige Pro IG years ago.

 

[Icedorb217]

I'd say the new Radical Pro and the Prestige Pro are worth a demo. If you want more power I'd say check out the Radical MP. Going to go against popular opinion on here but skip the prestige mp. It has the feel but its got no juice to go with it.

 

[PMF]

I tried the previous gen navy blue and orange for a while. It felt pretty good overall but ended up not loving the 16x19 pattern. It might just be mental but my grip tends to creep from eastern to semi western when I use more open string patterns and I start brushing the ball too much which doesn't work well for my game.

Yeah, I use an eastern forehand grip as well, with OHBH, so I understand. Ironically, I find the Blade v7 18x20 works very well for my flat game, but mine is significantly under spec at (318g strung), so I don’t mind the ~4 pts.HL balance. Also, I thought the Ezone Tour (when under spec) was a really good fit too.

 

[CosmosMpower]

Quick update:

Tried Diadem Elevate and Tour - not bad but did not like the balance and felt crisper than I thought it would for the RA and being a foam filled racquet. Also tried the Diadem Novas for fun, pretty light and decent power for a tweener frame. Also tried a VCP 97 HD again, still meh for me.

Got my Ezone Tour with leather grip in, only got to hit a few mins but it has promise. Definitely a hefty stick at 342g strung, but still about 6.5 pts HL.

I'm stringing an Angell K7 red for a friend, curious to see how it plays compared to my K7 Limes and TC95/97 Customs

Any feedback on Dunlop CX200 Tour 18x20?

Side note: Diadem Solstice Power main string and Diadem Evolution cross string (polyamide monofilament) hybrid is awesome!

 

[JOSHL]

Head Extreme tour. And the new Radical pro if the Extreme tour doesn’t have enough juice for you.