Prince Phantom

richardc-s

Semi-Pro
So I used mine again today, strung up with my preferred combo of gut mains and poly (Wilson Revolve) crosses.

I must be honest I am not feeling it.... it's extremely comfortable which I like, however I cannot seem to hit a decent forehand to save my life. My launch angle is silly high and I struggle to flatten out my shots. I also feel I have no penetration in the shot, it's all spin and doesn't seem to go anywhere.

Is there anything I can do (add weight or change string setup) to help reduce the launch angle and help hit through the ball more? I know I will eventually adjust to the racket but I would rather have the racket adjust to the way I play.

Or does anybody want to buy the racket off me?! I'm based in England.

I don't know if I just need to use a racket with a more dense string pattern so I have a lower launch angle.
 

Tommy Haas

Hall of Fame
So I used mine again today, strung up with my preferred combo of gut mains and poly (Wilson Revolve) crosses.

I must be honest I am not feeling it.... it's extremely comfortable which I like, however I cannot seem to hit a decent forehand to save my life. My launch angle is silly high and I struggle to flatten out my shots. I also feel I have no penetration in the shot, it's all spin and doesn't seem to go anywhere.

Is there anything I can do (add weight or change string setup) to help reduce the launch angle and help hit through the ball more? I know I will eventually adjust to the racket but I would rather have the racket adjust to the way I play.

Or does anybody want to buy the racket off me?! I'm based in England.

I don't know if I just need to use a racket with a more dense string pattern so I have a lower launch angle.

Yes, to lower the launch angle, string your Phantom with 15 gauge synthetic gut at the upper tension range. It'll feel like a board, lack feel, and not have any pop, but the launch angle shouldn't be as high. It definitely sounds like the racquet isn't for you.

I'm not a big spin hitter and like flattening out shots for power and put always and am patiently waiting for the Phantom Pro 100 in the US. However, the only different between the Phantom with Pro version are the EXO3 ports. The hoop size and string pattern are the same and I'm now wondering if the launch angle will be too high for me.
 
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smalahove

Hall of Fame
[...] the Phantom Pro 100 in the US. However, the only different between the Phantom with Pro version are the EXO3 ports. The hoop size and string pattern are the same and I'm now wondering if the launch angle will be too high for me.

If with Phantom Pro 100 you are referring to the Japanese manufactured Phantom Pro 100 XR, it has a completely different mold than the Phantom 100, as the beam measures 20-22-20 mm, which is the same beam taper as the Textreme Tour 100P and 100T. Since I've owned both the Exo3 Tour 100 16x18 and 18x20, as well as the Textreme Tour 100T and 100P (and I've played the second gen Tour 100, and owned the Textreme Tour 95), my educated guess is that the Phantom Pro 100 XR is nothing alike the Phantom 100, but probably plays like a 16x18 version of the TT100P.
 

BillKid

Hall of Fame
If with Phantom Pro 100 you are referring to the Japanese manufactured Phantom Pro 100 XR, it has a completely different mold than the Phantom 100, as the beam measures 20-22-20 mm, which is the same beam taper as the Textreme Tour 100P and 100T. Since I've owned both the Exo3 Tour 100 16x18 and 18x20, as well as the Textreme Tour 100T and 100P (and I've played the second gen Tour 100, and owned the Textreme Tour 95), my educated guess is that the Phantom Pro 100 XR is nothing alike the Phantom 100, but probably plays like a 16x18 version of the TT100P.
You may be right but in Japan the Phantom pro 100 and the Textreme Tour Pro 100 (16x19) are both available
.http://princeracket.jp/rackets/phantom-pro-100-xr/
http://princeracket.jp/rackets/7tj016/
Besides the string pattern 16x18 vs 16x19 I do not know the differences between these two racquets
 
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smalahove

Hall of Fame
You may be right but in Japan the Phantom pro 100 and the Textreme Tour Pro 100 (16x19) are both available
.http://princeracket.jp/rackets/phantom-pro-100-xr/
http://princeracket.jp/rackets/7tj016/
Besides the string pattern 16x18 vs 16x19 I do not know the differences between these two racquets

The Tour Pro 100 XR and the Tour Pro 100T XR, have the same beam taper as the Textreme Tour 100P and 100T: 22-23-20mm (and not the same as the Phantom Pro 100 XR as I thought).

The Phantom Pro 100 XR has a 20-22-20 mm beam taper, which is identical with the Tour Pro 100 and Tour Pro 100 ESP (according to Prince own measurements). I owned the latter, and despite the (way too) open pattern, it was a great feeling frame, so I'm def getting a Prince Phantom Pro 100 XR if it's going to be available for sales in the EU :)
 

DANMAN

Professional
Got mine in this afternoon. It feels heftier than I would have thought. The 16mm beam at the throat is quite thin. It's sharp looking and feels good in hand. The grip feels a bit larger than the same grip in Wilson or Babolat oddly to me. Looking forward to stringing it up and getting a first hit in.
 

time_fly

Hall of Fame
Mine was supposed to be delivered today but never made it past Nebraska since Saturday morning according to UPS. :-( Hopefully tomorrow ...
 

jbdbackfan

Semi-Pro
Got second hit in a small doubles match. The racquet has power. Strung babolat gut mains at 56 and 17g smooth poly cross at 54. I was struggling to make a full cut as I was afraid of over hitting. I think part of this is due to the feel being so soft. Most comfortable and plush racquet I've ever used. I'll know more Wednesday.
 

Tommy Haas

Hall of Fame
Got second hit in a small doubles match. The racquet has power. Strung babolat gut mains at 56 and 17g smooth poly cross at 54. I was struggling to make a full cut as I was afraid of over hitting. I think part of this is due to the feel being so soft. Most comfortable and plush racquet I've ever used. I'll know more Wednesday.

Due to the design and layup, is there anyone who thinks the new Phantom 100 with 56RA actually feels more soft or comfortable than the original EXO3 Tour 100 with 52RA?
 

B Cubed

Semi-Pro
Yes, to lower the launch angle, string your Phantom with 15 gauge synthetic gut at the upper tension range. It'll feel like a board, lack feel, and not have any pop, but the launch angle shouldn't be as high. It definitely sounds like the racquet isn't for you.

I'm not a big spin hitter and like flattening out shots for power and put always and am patiently waiting for the Phantom Pro 100 in the US. However, the only different between the Phantom with Pro version are the EXO3 ports. The hoop size and string pattern are the same and I'm now wondering if the launch angle will be too high for me.

I want to second this. I've done similar with my PCG; I also prefer a flatter ball. Good 15s for pop and control I've found to work well are Gamma TNT 2 and Prince Premier Control. Love Premier Control - pop, tension maintenance, and decent spin. Don't feel I'm sacrificing anything with a thicker gauge.
 

jbdbackfan

Semi-Pro
I want to second this. I've done similar with my PCG; I also prefer a flatter ball. Good 15s for pop and control I've found to work well are Gamma TNT 2 and Prince Premier Control. Love Premier Control - pop, tension maintenance, and decent spin. Don't feel I'm sacrificing anything with a thicker gauge.
Premier control is the best multi on the market. Really hope Prince continues to make this. What tension you use?
 

B Cubed

Semi-Pro
Premier control is the best multi on the market. Really hope Prince continues to make this. What tension you use?
I go around 53 on my PCG. It's a tension fickle racket, and I feel that's where the sweet spot is the biggest. I've used 17 gauge on my Tour 100 18x20 and have gone more around mid range - 54/55. It just really has it all, and still great access to spin.
 

alter mann

New User
The difference between the Phantom and Tour 16x18 is noticeable in head shapes and beam. They are playing very similar.
Big surprise is how a thin poly string on high dynamic tension fits to this frames!
 
D

dblsplayer

Guest
Got mine in this afternoon. It feels heftier than I would have thought. The 16mm beam at the throat is quite thin. It's sharp looking and feels good in hand. The grip feels a bit larger than the same grip in Wilson or Babolat oddly to me. Looking forward to stringing it up and getting a first hit in.
Second this. Feels a bit larger than my 100P's; more like Babolat sizing. Playing with it this evening for the first time.

Makes a cool swish sound when swinging. So there's that.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
Just received my Phantom today from TW. It's static weight and h/l balance are spot on per published specs by TW.
So far so good. I normally take a 4 3/8 grip size but have chosen to go with the 4 1/4 as I'm prepared to put on two over grips if necessary. However, the 4 1/4 size I have seems like it will only require one over grip....it might be a tiny bit on the large size?
Just shadow swinging the racquet and it does make a nice swoosh to it. I had it strung with NXT Power 17g 53#. This has been my go to string mainly because it's very arm friendly and will add some pop to this racquet that most have stated is low on power.
 

time_fly

Hall of Fame
Got mine today ... measured 11.8oz strung with small dampener and Wilson Pro OG. Surprising 9.5pt HL ... very light swing compared to what I'm used to.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
Was able to get in a quick one hour session with the Phantom today. By the time I added a worm dampener, some Babolat string savers and V-dry over grip the static weight was 341g or 12.03 ounces and a head light balance of 7.5. I beat my opponent today 6-1 but I’m not boasting much as he is no longer the tournament 4.5 proven player that he used to be. He was the only guy I could arrange a hit with today on short notice.

Maneuverability: Magnificent! I don’t think I’ve ever been able to swing a 12 ounce racquet so fast.

Groundstrokes: If you like to hit heavy topspin then this racquet can hit with more than adequate amount of pace. Not only did my opponent say I hit a heavier ball but he was surprised at the scarcity of balls I hit long. Once I was able to dial in my strokes most of the topspin shots were within a few inches from the back line. I did have some problems in flattening out on the ball as I found them lacking adequate power but towards then end of the session I was able to hit more pace. Therefore, I need more time to provide proper feedback. I did not have any problem with flat shots going long. I attribute that to the way I flatten out on my shots along with the racquet being able to produce a little topspin on flatter shots which prevented them from sailing long. Under spin shots were a pleasure to hit with this racquet as the swing weight just sliced through the ball like a sharp knife thru butter.

Stability: The guy I hit with does not hit with much pace but is a human backboard, therefore I was not able to see how well the racquet does with incoming pace. That being said, I had no problems with stability in hitting my groundstrokes or volleys. In fact, overall I’d say the racquet was very stable.

Return of serve: Once in a while my partner would hit a flat serve which the Phantom had no problem handling it. However, he does not possess a booming serve so I won’t be able to find out how well the racquet really does until this Thursday when I play my next opponent who does possess a booming serve.

Comfort: I’ve never hit with a more comfortable racquet in my life. That being said, it does take sometime to get used to playing with such an unfamiliar feel. Keep in mind, I’m coming from a RF Autograph which I love dearly but my arthritic shoulder can no longer handle it’s harsh feeling. While you might find it odd that a fan of the RF racquet would even attempt using the Phantom all I can tell you is that if you ever have chronic arthritis in your arm or shoulder and still want to play the game, you will have no choice. The point I’m making is that it’s still possible to play a high level of tennis and use an arm friendly racquet. The Phantom does possess a decent amount of heft as I believe the SW is around 328.

Volleys: This is where I was pleasantly surprised at not only how maneuverable the Phantom was but how stable the racquet was. Also, I used to get a high degree of vibration from most racquets when hitting a higher volley. No such problem with the Phantom.

Overall, the Phantom is a very unique racquet that could be very beneficial for those who have arm issues, possess a topspin oriented game and like to wear down their opponents from the baseline. Yet it can also be productive in hitting approach shots that set up the volley for the finishing kill.

This would also be an outstanding racquet for doubles as it is very adept at hitting sharp angles.

I've rated this racquet over the Volkl C10 Pro I just purchased which I'll be selling soon on the TW FS forum. The C10 Pro is not nearly as maneuverable or comfortable but still a good racquet overall.

Lastly, I believe those who have found the racquet to be lacking in power probably don't take full long strokes like Del Potro. This racquet won't generate much power with those who take short strokes.


All just my opinion of course.
 
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time_fly

Hall of Fame
Played a doubles clinic alternating the DR98+ and Phantom this morning. Talk about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The Phantom really reminds me of the Volkl Super G10. Very whippy and spinny, muted. Easy to keep the ball in but sometimes I would "spin out" and the ball would go nowhere. The easy topspin kept my balls safely inside the line at all times and kept them dipping in front of the net players. It's not a racquet you would ever want to simply block the ball with; even on defense you would want to chip, slice, or push instead of block or the ball will just die. I think it's a great stick for grinders and counter-punchers. The DR98+ is more substantial feeling and fun. When I get on the gas with the Yonex the ball takes off like a rocket. However it has a lower trajectory and my hitting partners did point out that when I hit to to them, the ball had some decent pace and sat right in the strike zone, just how they wanted it. Of course it also lacks the Phantom's maneuverability. We didn't do a lot of game play so I only served with the Phantom. I can confirm that it's tough to get real velocity but easy to spin the ball in.
 

richardc-s

Semi-Pro
Played a doubles clinic alternating the DR98+ and Phantom this morning. Talk about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The Phantom really reminds me of the Volkl Super G10. Very whippy and spinny, muted. Easy to keep the ball in but sometimes I would "spin out" and the ball would go nowhere. The easy topspin kept my balls safely inside the line at all times and kept them dipping in front of the net players. It's not a racquet you would ever want to simply block the ball with; even on defense you would want to chip, slice, or push instead of block or the ball will just die. I think it's a great stick for grinders and counter-punchers. The DR98+ is more substantial feeling and fun. When I get on the gas with the Yonex the ball takes off like a rocket. However it has a lower trajectory and my hitting partners did point out that when I hit to to them, the ball had some decent pace and sat right in the strike zone, just how they wanted it. Of course it also lacks the Phantom's maneuverability. We didn't do a lot of game play so I only served with the Phantom. I can confirm that it's tough to get real velocity but easy to spin the ball in.

I fully agree on the spin part, I can hit some wicked topspin but struggle to hit through the ball and make my shots penetrate through the court. Because of the extra topspin my shots were dropping short and sitting up, making them a delight for my hitting partner to lay into!
 

DANMAN

Professional
Can I ask what the NTRP ratings are for people struggling to hit through the court? I'm curious if this is a relative feel compared to other rackets at all levels related to the racket or if this is related to different skill levels. I suspect it is lower powered than most users other frames so suspect this will be across skill levels
 

time_fly

Hall of Fame
I'm a borderline 3.5-4.0. My observation is relative to the 2016 Pure Strike 98 (my racquet of choice until I started getting tennis elbow) and some of the other sticks I've been testing lately like the DR98+, Burn 95, and Volkl Super G10 325. In the past I've played the regular DR98, Pro Staff 97, and Textreme Tour 100P. I found the 100P to be almost too powerful in comparison.
 

richardc-s

Semi-Pro
Can I ask what the NTRP ratings are for people struggling to hit through the court? I'm curious if this is a relative feel compared to other rackets at all levels related to the racket or if this is related to different skill levels. I suspect it is lower powered than most users other frames so suspect this will be across skill levels

I'm in the UK but I would say I play at around the 4.0 level. My normal racket is a Wilson PS85, so I am used to (and prefer) low powered rackets.

I think I am struggling because the Phantom is low powered AND very spin friendly, all the spin it generates seems to be sapping the power from my shots. I'm sure it is something I will adjust to, I just need to (in theory) hit through the ball more and less up the back of the ball. I don't know if I want to adjust though... I might just bite the bullet and move on to a more 'normal' control frame with a regular string pattern.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
I'm a 4.5 who used to be a 5.0 when I had a healthy shoulder. The racquet won't perform well if you don't take long strokes. I have yet to try it against a booming serve or overhead smash (tomorrow I've arranged a session with a stronger server). It's also noteworthy that I'm using a powerful multi in it (NXT Power 17g) along with some strategically placed Babolat string savers. I don't think this racquet will do well with a lower powered poly string unless it is strung loosely. Also, while I do like the current set up I have, I might try adding 2 grams of lead at 12 o'clock since this racquet swings so much easier than it's 12.0 static weight but this will depend upon how it performs against incoming pace. If you are having difficulty with the power level of this racquet then I suggest going with a multi at low #50 tension. According to the video link below, if you add string savers to the sweetspot, placing a string saver on every other main you'll get even more control and topspin. The string savers will not only prevent wear and tear but firm up the racquet in some key areas to enhance spin. This set up is working well for me on my ground game.
Around 1:50 of this video this guy gives the benefits of using string savers. I've just tried this for one session and am not sure if the string savers are helping but it seems to be.

 

Sappruski

Rookie
Was able to get in a quick one hour session with the Phantom today. By the time I added a worm dampener, some Babolat string savers and V-dry over grip the static weight was 341g or 12.03 ounces and a head light balance of 7.5. I beat my opponent today 6-1 but I’m not boasting much as he is no longer the tournament 4.5 proven player that he used to be. He was the only guy I could arrange a hit with today on short notice.

Maneuverability: Magnificent! I don’t think I’ve ever been able to swing a 12 ounce racquet so fast.

Groundstrokes: If you like to hit heavy topspin then this racquet can hit with more than adequate amount of pace. Not only did my opponent say I hit a heavier ball but he was surprised at the scarcity of balls I hit long. Once I was able to dial in my strokes most of the topspin shots were within a few inches from the back line. I did have some problems in flattening out on the ball as I found them lacking adequate power but towards then end of the session I was able to hit more pace. Therefore, I need more time to provide proper feedback. I did not have any problem with flat shots going long. I attribute that to the way I flatten out on my shots along with the racquet being able to produce a little topspin on flatter shots which prevented them from sailing long. Under spin shots were a pleasure to hit with this racquet as the swing weight just sliced through the ball like a sharp knife thru butter.

Stability: The guy I hit with does not hit with much pace but is a human backboard, therefore I was not able to see how well the racquet does with incoming pace. That being said, I had no problems with stability in hitting my groundstrokes or volleys. In fact, overall I’d say the racquet was very stable.

Return of serve: Once in a while my partner would hit a flat serve which the Phantom had no problem handling it. However, he does not possess a booming serve so I won’t be able to find out how well the racquet really does until this Thursday when I play my next opponent who does possess a booming serve.

Comfort: I’ve never hit with a more comfortable racquet in my life. That being said, it does take sometime to get used to playing with such an unfamiliar feel. Keep in mind, I’m coming from a RF Autograph which I love dearly but my arthritic shoulder can no longer handle it’s harsh feeling. While you might find it odd that a fan of the RF racquet would even attempt using the Phantom all I can tell you is that if you ever have chronic arthritis in your arm or shoulder and still want to play the game, you will have no choice. The point I’m making is that it’s still possible to play a high level of tennis and use an arm friendly racquet. The Phantom does possess a decent amount of heft as I believe the SW is around 328.

Volleys: This is where I was pleasantly surprised at not only how maneuverable the Phantom was but how stable the racquet was. Also, I used to get a high degree of vibration from most racquets when hitting a higher volley. No such problem with the Phantom.

Overall, the Phantom is a very unique racquet that could be very beneficial for those who have arm issues, possess a topspin oriented game and like to wear down their opponents from the baseline. Yet it can also be productive in hitting approach shots that set up the volley for the finishing kill.

This would also be an outstanding racquet for doubles as it is very adept at hitting sharp angles.

I've rated this racquet over the Volkl C10 Pro I just purchased which I'll be selling soon on the TW FS forum. The C10 Pro is not nearly as maneuverable or comfortable but still a good racquet overall.

Lastly, I believe those who have found the racquet to be lacking in power probably don't take full long strokes like Del Potro. This racquet won't generate much power with those who take short strokes.


All just my opinion of course.


Thanks for the Review.
I play with the C10 and wonder how the Phantom compares to the C10 on the serves. 1st & 2nd
 

Tommy Haas

Hall of Fame
What kind of string savers is that guy using? Aren't Wilson string savers discontinued and P1 bought up the world's remaining inventory for Federer.
 

skydog

Professional
Can I ask what the NTRP ratings are for people struggling to hit through the court? I'm curious if this is a relative feel compared to other rackets at all levels related to the racket or if this is related to different skill levels. I suspect it is lower powered than most users other frames so suspect this will be across skill levels
I am not rated, but my pro recommend that I self rate somewhere between a 3.5 to 4.0. I normally participate in 3.5 to 4.0 drills.

My time with the Phantom was limited and I was not able to keep it so I only strung it up once with the same string setup and tension as my current playing racquet at that time, a Blade 104 (2015). While I would not say I struggled to hit through the court, there was a noticible power fall off compared to my normal experience with a more powerful frame and different string spacing. It was also my first experience with a more open pattern and Prince ports so there was an adjustment to that as well.

That being said, I believe if I had the time to try different tension combinations I could have regained some of the lost power. Adding weight to the Phantom definitely improved its power level and stability and lowering the tension would probably regain even more. I enjoyed the Phantom enough that I started looking for similar racquets as the Phantom was not going to be readily available for several months. I eventually stumbled upon the Prince Tour 98 ESP on closeout pricing and transitioned into it after a month or or so of tweaking.

If the Phantom was readily available at the time I got to demo it, I probably would bought a few of them and transitioned into it. That being said, I am not leaving the Tour 98 ESP anytime soon as I have that platform dialed in and have stockpiled enough frames and grommets to keep me happy for a long time.
 

time_fly

Hall of Fame
I should mention mine is strung with TF Razor Code @ 53. That's my go-to poly for an unknown racquet. I did up the tension a bit because of the open string pattern and 100". In retrospect I think a multi or hybrid with a little more pop would be a better option since the frame design is already so spin and control oriented. Do I want to deal with cutting out fresh poly and stringing with ports so soon? Hmm.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
That just looks like Babolat Elastocross.
Yeah, I'm pretty sure it's Babolat Elastocross. That is what I put into my Phantom. Not sure the guy is right about creating more topspin, but it makes sense to me.
String savers prevent snap back which is actually bad for topspin if you are using poly strings as they are made to snap back. But if you are using a fragile multi like NXT it could definitely make the string job last longer and also create more topspin by allowing it to grab the ball. Multis aren't noted to snap back so the next best thing is to make that location a little more tightened up and boardy.

Here's Mr Fed's set up.

 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
Thanks for the Review.
I play with the C10 and wonder how the Phantom compares to the C10 on the serves. 1st & 2nd
I've been nursing a very sore shoulder so I have been staying away from serving. Most of the posters who have had some experience serving with the Phantoms claim it's a little low a power if trying to hit flatter serves but excels with topspin serves. I imagine it would also be especially good hitting slice serves to the deuce court.
 

Tommy Haas

Hall of Fame
Yeah, I'm pretty sure it's Babolat Elastocross. That is what I put into my Phantom. Not sure the guy is right about creating more topspin, but it makes sense to me.
String savers prevent snap back which is actually bad for topspin if you are using poly strings as they are made to snap back. But if you are using a fragile multi like NXT it could definitely make the string job last longer and also create more topspin by allowing it to grab the ball. Multis aren't noted to snap back so the next best thing is to make that location a little more tightened up and boardy.

When you said snap back reduces spin, are you referring to string sliding? I've read that it's string sliding that helps with spin. So there's the mains sliding agasinst the crosses and there's the stringbed in general stretching and trying to pocket the ball. I thought Fed uses the string savers to better help grip the ball. The plastic edges of the string savers would dig into the ball's felt and provide extra spin. Much like textured spin strings, except string savers not only aided with extra spin, but extended string life while textured spin strings have a notoriously short lifespan.
 

langdon0555

Semi-Pro
Word is Fed still uses string savers and also leather power pads out of habit.

There is really no need for either with his current racquet and set up.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
When you said snap back reduces spin, are you referring to string sliding? I've read that it's string sliding that helps with spin. So there's the mains sliding agasinst the crosses and there's the stringbed in general stretching and trying to pocket the ball. I thought Fed uses the string savers to better help grip the ball. The plastic edges of the string savers would dig into the ball's felt and provide extra spin. Much like textured spin strings, except string savers not only aided with extra spin, but extended string life while textured spin strings have a notoriously short lifespan.
Sorry, evidently I was not clear enough. I meant that the string savers prevent the strings from sliding as much which greatly minimizes snap back. Snap back is good for spin and string savers minimize snap back. Also, I think you are correct in that the strings savers might help grab the ball. So yes, we agree on both points.
 

jbdbackfan

Semi-Pro
Maybe it's just me but I am finding with phantom if you are off on your swing angle the balls sore. I'm not experiencing the lack of power. I strung natural gut mains at 56 and a smooth 17 gauge poly as a cross at 54.
 

dgoran

Hall of Fame
Maybe it's just me but I am finding with phantom if you are off on your swing angle the balls sore. I'm not experiencing the lack of power. I strung natural gut mains at 56 and a smooth 17 gauge poly as a cross at 54.
Imhe gut mains only amplifies higher launch angle so you might be amplifying your issue with that choice of strings
 

Tommy Haas

Hall of Fame
Maybe it's just me but I am finding with phantom if you are off on your swing angle the balls sore. I'm not experiencing the lack of power. I strung natural gut mains at 56 and a smooth 17 gauge poly as a cross at 54.

Not surprising given it has an open 16x18 string pattern on a 100" head sized hoop. High launch angle coupled with a twitch in the wrong direction and balls will soar.
 

DJ-

Hall of Fame
Can't wait to test this beauty on the weekend, playing some big hitters in doubles action.. should be good. Arrived very quick downunder from the states.. and there is a whistle when swung, kinda cool though...
 

tata

Hall of Fame
Can't wait to test this beauty on the weekend, playing some big hitters in doubles action.. should be good. Arrived very quick downunder from the states.. and there is a whistle when swung, kinda cool though...

I thought years ago they put a shipping restriction of certain brands that couldn't be shipped outside America? Is it lifted now?
 

DJ-

Hall of Fame
I thought years ago they put a shipping restriction of certain brands that couldn't be shipped outside America? Is it lifted now?

Some brands still apply and depends where you purchase them from. I guess TW has a euro shop and also Aus shop.. maybe that's the reason? Either way a win for us consumers
 

Anton

Legend
16x18 seems ill suited for this racket type. 18x20 EXO3 TOUR 100 (that I played for a year or two) felt much better than 16x18 version.

Anyone lead this thing up yet?
 
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seekay

Semi-Pro
Brief review: I ordered a Phantom after I tweaked my elbow bowling. I strung it up with full natural gut at 50lb, and no surprise, it's extremely comfortable. I played 4.0-level recreational doubles with it for two hours each of the past two nights.

What surprised me is how stable the racquet feels. With the high flex and thin beam, I'd expected a bit of a wobbly feel, especially on off-center hits. The Phantom is consistent; I can't blame the racquet for my misses. Touch and feel are great (as expected). I found it easy to volley hard-hit balls and direct them at my target.

The other remarkable trait was the spin, as others have mentioned. 16x18 in an 100 square inch frame is very open, and spin was easy to find. It's not as good as my normal setup (Six.One 95 S with ALU Power), but that's hardly a fair comparison.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
I've had no problem adjusting to the launch angle; my racquet is strung with full bed of NXT Power #53 with those magical Babolat string savers
16x18 seems ill suited for this racket type. 18x20 EXO3 TOUR 100 (that I played for a year or two) felt much better than 16x18 version.

Anyone lead this thing up yet?
Today I put 2 grams on each side from 11 to 1 o'clock and it definitely gave the racquet more power especially when flattening out on the ball. It brought the h/l balance down from 7.5 to 7. Keep in mind I have some string savers and a large dampener on the frame which adds some weight. The total weight of the racquet with extra lead is now 345g or 12.17 ounces. Also, today I was pleased to report that the Phantom was very stable in returning booming serves. It displayed no stability issues at all; in fact it was very solid. Normally I like a head light balance of at least 8.5 to 9.5 pts so I will do a little more experimenting by adding some lead to the handle. I made some glaring errors on some put away shots as I was not used to due to the change in balance. However, oddly enough I did not feel like I lacked racquet speed on normal incoming ground strokes. Perhaps this is just something I can adjust to. Also, I am still adjusting to hitting with a larger head frame versus the 97 that I had been using. I really don't want to go too much higher in static weight although this racquet swings through the air so easily that it can handle the weight.
So far so good and getting even better.
 

Tordne

Semi-Pro
16x18 seems ill suited for this racket type. 18x20 EXO3 TOUR 100 (that I played for a year or two) felt much better than 16x18 version.

Anyone lead this thing up yet?

The highest spec I modified the Phantom to so far was 350 grams, 311 mm balance and 340 SW. That was very nice. Took approx 6 grams at 12 and 15 grams of Blu Tak in the handle.
 

tata

Hall of Fame
Can those who have trouble flattening out the ball elaborate? Is there not enough pace? Lack of weight in the shot? I played the exo tour in 18x20 and while I didn't have the authority in ending points for outright winners I didn't miss much and didn't mind playing the extra ball.
 

Mirdad

Semi-Pro
Can those who have trouble flattening out the ball elaborate? Is there not enough pace? Lack of weight in the shot? I played the exo tour in 18x20 and while I didn't have the authority in ending points for outright winners I didn't miss much and didn't mind playing the extra ball.
I felt a lack of weight in the shot. This was resolved by adding just 2 grams on each side of the frame from 11 to 1 o'clock. Today I am going to experiment by adding some weight to the bottom of the handle to bring the racquet back to about 8.5 to 9 pts head light balance. This is a very fun racquet to hit with. Just be sure to take a full swing. However, you can get away from taking a very short swing when returning heavy pace especially on serves, but any incoming pace that ranges on the slow to medium sized definitely requires a full swing. Just swing the racquet like Del Potro and you'll be fine:)
P.S. I am a guy with shoulder issues and after hitting the ball for 90 minutes yesterday had no issues at all with my shoulder. For that reason alone, I"m sold on this racquet. Need to hit just a little more before buying a second one though.
 

time_fly

Hall of Fame
Can those who have trouble flattening out the ball elaborate? Is there not enough pace? Lack of weight in the shot? I played the exo tour in 18x20 and while I didn't have the authority in ending points for outright winners I didn't miss much and didn't mind playing the extra ball.

I agree with Mirdad above; it mostly just needs a bit more weight in the head to help plow through the ball. It's pretty similar to the EXO3 Tour 18x20. I think the Phantom is a bit more stable and even more spin-oriented with the open pattern.

Putting it another way, of course you CAN hit a flat ball with the Phantom but it feels less natural. When I flatten out with the DR98+, which is the other racquet I'm testing right now, it plows easily through the ball and it comes off probably 5+ mph faster with what feels like the same swing to me.
 
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Mirdad

Semi-Pro
What exactly is a "launch angle" and why does natural gut amplify it?
Launch angle is the height of the flight of the ball when it travels over the net. An open string pattern racquet such as the Phantom and elastic strings including strings that have a lower tension will cause the ball to have a trampoline effect and "launch" higher over the net when hitting topspin. If you can hit topspin with proper mechanics a higher launch has the advantage of having less errors of hitting into the net and brings the ball back down quickly, oftentimes near the back of the court which causes a heavy ball that is tougher to handle. A perfect example is the the forehand of Rafa Nadal. Natural gut has a tendency to be more elastic so that is why it can create a slightly higher launch. However, all you have to do is string the natural gut a little more tighter to bring down the launch angle. In my opinion, natural gut won't drastically increase the launch angle as much as an open level racquet patter or lower tension strings. The negative aspect of having a higher launch angle set up is some people have a difficult time controlling the ball, usually hitting it long when they try to hit flatter shots. Again, proper mechanics can adjust for this but it depends upon what kind of a game or style you prefer.
 

jbdbackfan

Semi-Pro
Launch angle is the height of the flight of the ball when it travels over the net. An open string pattern racquet such as the Phantom and elastic strings including strings that have a lower tension will cause the ball to have a trampoline effect and "launch" higher over the net when hitting topspin. If you can hit topspin with proper mechanics a higher launch has the advantage of having less errors of hitting into the net and brings the ball back down quickly, oftentimes near the back of the court which causes a heavy ball that is tougher to handle. A perfect example is the the forehand of Rafa Nadal. Natural gut has a tendency to be more elastic so that is why it can create a slightly higher launch. However, all you have to do is string the natural gut a little more tighter to bring down the launch angle. In my opinion, natural gut won't drastically increase the launch angle as much as an open level racquet patter or lower tension strings. The negative aspect of having a higher launch angle set up is some people have a difficult time controlling the ball, usually hitting it long when they try to hit flatter shots. Again, proper mechanics can adjust for this but it depends upon what kind of a game or style you prefer.
Thanks!
 
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