PT57/Austria/Prestige haters thread
- Thread starter Lucas2015
- Start date
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
You don't have to worry I have a couple PT57A with Graphene Prestige paint and it plays just like the original Pro Tour 630 made in Austria
Fed Kennedy
Legend
The cult of flexpoint
dak95_00
Hall of Fame
I've owned a handful of Prestiges, PT57As, and some Radicals.
The first PT57A I came across was lighter than the other two I had a very good experience with it. I paid a whopping $40 for it and had no idea it was "special." As soon as I found out, I sold it for its true value
The other two were just okay and I sold them also. I don't enjoy playing with ridiculously expensive items. I paid $30 for each of them.
I then started liking the 18x20 pattern and found some i.Prestige MP XL which I liked. It wasn't awesome but I still own it and bought a second. They just sit collecting dust. I consider them by backups to my backups.
I've had a number of other Prestiges. The newest were not good for me.
I've hit many Radicals too; Chinese, Czech, and Austria. I couldn't distinguish between them. Oddly, I'm currently using the Graphene MP and it's okay. I don't know if I like them better than the IG version but I certainly like them better than the i.Radicals, the Bumblebees, Liquidmetals, etc.
Are they special? Not really. Are any racquets special? I don't think so. It's definitely the player and not the racquet.
If you want to play classics, go for it. I just think if you're playing and like solid racquets; 6.1s, Prestige/Radicals, POGs, etc., then you can't go wrong. Find a string and pattern you like and have fun. I wouldn't break the bank for any of them.
The first PT57A I came across was lighter than the other two I had a very good experience with it. I paid a whopping $40 for it and had no idea it was "special." As soon as I found out, I sold it for its true value
The other two were just okay and I sold them also. I don't enjoy playing with ridiculously expensive items. I paid $30 for each of them.
I then started liking the 18x20 pattern and found some i.Prestige MP XL which I liked. It wasn't awesome but I still own it and bought a second. They just sit collecting dust. I consider them by backups to my backups.
I've had a number of other Prestiges. The newest were not good for me.
I've hit many Radicals too; Chinese, Czech, and Austria. I couldn't distinguish between them. Oddly, I'm currently using the Graphene MP and it's okay. I don't know if I like them better than the IG version but I certainly like them better than the i.Radicals, the Bumblebees, Liquidmetals, etc.
Are they special? Not really. Are any racquets special? I don't think so. It's definitely the player and not the racquet.
If you want to play classics, go for it. I just think if you're playing and like solid racquets; 6.1s, Prestige/Radicals, POGs, etc., then you can't go wrong. Find a string and pattern you like and have fun. I wouldn't break the bank for any of them.
Tommy Haas
Hall of Fame
@dak95_00 I should take a trip to where you live. Must be some pros donating their frames to Goodwill or Salvation Army. Was that a long time ago? Bargains like that aren't possible where I am. Many people in the know here, pro and college.
Have you ever played with a PT57A2? Murray uses it and his PT630 is lighter with a 16x19 string pattern. That must be the rarest pro stock of them all and he's the only pro I know who plays with it and I've never heard of him donating his old frames.
Have you ever played with a PT57A2? Murray uses it and his PT630 is lighter with a 16x19 string pattern. That must be the rarest pro stock of them all and he's the only pro I know who plays with it and I've never heard of him donating his old frames.
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vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
What Radicals could you not distinguish any differences?I've owned a handful of Prestiges, PT57As, and some Radicals.
The first PT57A I came across was lighter than the other two I had a very good experience with it. I paid a whopping $40 for it and had no idea it was "special." As soon as I found out, I sold it for its true value
The other two were just okay and I sold them also. I don't enjoy playing with ridiculously expensive items. I paid $30 for each of them.
I then started liking the 18x20 pattern and found some i.Prestige MP XL which I liked. It wasn't awesome but I still own it and bought a second. They just sit collecting dust. I consider them by backups to my backups.
I've had a number of other Prestiges. The newest were not good for me.
I've hit many Radicals too; Chinese, Czech, and Austria. I couldn't distinguish between them. Oddly, I'm currently using the Graphene MP and it's okay. I don't know if I like them better than the IG version but I certainly like them better than the i.Radicals, the Bumblebees, Liquidmetals, etc.
Are they special? Not really. Are any racquets special? I don't think so. It's definitely the player and not the racquet.
If you want to play classics, go for it. I just think if you're playing and like solid racquets; 6.1s, Prestige/Radicals, POGs, etc., then you can't go wrong. Find a string and pattern you like and have fun. I wouldn't break the bank for any of them.
Racquet choice comes down to personal preference. For me the thick plush muted feel of the Pro Tour 630 is far superior to Graphene Prestige MP. I can feel a huge difference between the two racquets. Its night and day. Feeling comfortable with a racquet gives me confidence. Having confidence makes me play better.
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Tommy Haas
Hall of Fame
Many pro stocks were once retail frames like the PT630s. Sometimes manufacturers make something so good that it becomes the choice of professionals and turn into pro stocks when they're discontinued. It's sad that Head hasn't made anything good enough to replace the PT57A in over 20 years.
floydcouncil
Professional
I've owned a handful of Prestiges, PT57As, and some Radicals.
The first PT57A I came across was lighter than the other two I had a very good experience with it. I paid a whopping $40 for it and had no idea it was "special." As soon as I found out, I sold it for its true value
The other two were just okay and I sold them also. I don't enjoy playing with ridiculously expensive items. I paid $30 for each of them.
I then started liking the 18x20 pattern and found some i.Prestige MP XL which I liked. It wasn't awesome but I still own it and bought a second. They just sit collecting dust. I consider them by backups to my backups.
I've had a number of other Prestiges. The newest were not good for me.
I've hit many Radicals too; Chinese, Czech, and Austria. I couldn't distinguish between them. Oddly, I'm currently using the Graphene MP and it's okay. I don't know if I like them better than the IG version but I certainly like them better than the i.Radicals, the Bumblebees, Liquidmetals, etc.
Are they special? Not really. Are any racquets special? I don't think so. It's definitely the player and not the racquet.
If you want to play classics, go for it. I just think if you're playing and like solid racquets; 6.1s, Prestige/Radicals, POGs, etc., then you can't go wrong. Find a string and pattern you like and have fun. I wouldn't break the bank for any of them.
Bravo... too many hackers think that just because a racket has "Made in Austria" and Twarooni in the mix, it has to be a magical stick which will immediately increase his/her NTRP by a 1/2 step.
I say play with what feels good to you and go with that.
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
Where has anybody said that? Please show me a quote of someone saying: "it has to be a magical stick which will immediately increase his/her NTRP by a 1/2 step"
Tour_G
Semi-Pro
Wait... Isn't that true!? [emoji33]
macattack
Professional
While there is a bit of an obsession around the PT57s and PT10s, I think for most people it's about having loved the Pro Tour 630 and Prestige Classic so much. But, ya know...your story is more interesting, so...
dak95_00
Hall of Fame
VS,
I respect your knowledge on all things about Head racquets. While no one might've said it, they most certainly believe it when they'll pay through the roof for one. "They" in this instance are the players who believe these sticks are magical.
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In response to others who like the muted feel, the newer Radicals and Prestiges have a muted feel. The IG Radicals do and so do the Graphene Prestiges and Radicals. I've played them. The thing for me about these Graphene racquets, either XT or not, is they are extremely string sensitive for tension to get any power; you better go low. I'm considered a basher of the ball too.
The Radicals now have a different string pattern being 16x19 instead of the traditional 18x20. For the Murray fans looking for the PT57A that's a 16x19, why???? The newer Radicals will be just as good for you unless you believe in MAGIC. Pack in your bluetac, lead, and leather and viola!!! You are Andy Murray! Don't shave! Put down those calories to get skinny. And finally, scream for no apparent reason while playing! If you really want to go all out, buy some Tourna Wrist Towels and draw an X on them too.
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I was a long time POG 90 user. I couldn't tell the difference between the 1stripe and 4stripe. The tension made a slight difference but the string didn't. People who go on and on about minute spec differences aren't very good! Period! I've not played with any of the newer versions enough to form an opinion but the few hits I had felt very familiar.
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Agassi had the commercial where he said, "Image is everything." Of course, that was back when he sucked at tennis and was sucking down burgers, cocaine, and who knows what else.
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Manufacturers suck! I think Wilson has been experimenting with us, the consumer, with the RF racquets. They are selling a pro stick at a premium price. They then changed the paint and sold it again. Think about it. Nothing else changed; the mold, materials, etc. Did people buy more? Will Head follow? They obviously have the molds and materials. Why not just mass produce the pros' racquets? They'd not have to do any extra R & D. Will the consumer actually purchase the racquets? I guess we'll see how Wilson does as they put out the RF85 and maybe a different color RF97 in the near future. Someone has suggested that Wilson is putting out a Monfils pro racquet later this year. It should be interesting.
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There's no magic. Buy used racquets at $50 each and spend the money saved on lessons, balls, and court time. Those things will help you go up 1/2 NTRP point.
Tommy Haas
Hall of Fame
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
I have had a totally different experience playing with the Graphene Radical and Graphene Prestige. There's nothing muted about them, there's nothing plush about them, and there's nothing thick about them. While the IG Radical is muted it's not as plush as the Pro Tour 630. Its a very crisp racquet in comparison.
Who thinks Pro Stock racquets are magical? Please point to a quote where someone thinks it will raise there level by playing with one.
stronzzi70
Professional
I have 2 Trysis 300 tour Mid ,,, they are one of the best Mid racquets ,, 1000000 better than supposedly other nice Mid : IG Prestige Mid ...
dak95_00
Hall of Fame
Didn't you state they gave you confidence and therefore played better?
Also read the comments that surround your latest comment. They clearly state they play better with their PT racquets. I'm certain Judge Judy would be on my side with this evidence too.
Why argue? Let's just agree to disagree. I'm not going to validate anyone's hobby of spending over $100 for a racquet and I'm certainly not going be buying from Jens' website or the big auction site.
macattack
Professional
Yeah, but don't you play better with the racquet that you're most comfortable with? I could probably play pretty well with any racquet, but I know there are a handful out there that I just like more for various reasons. So when I have those in my hands I'm more confident about my play. Now I don't feel a half NTRP rating better, but I do feel like I'm more dialed in. I don't see what is so wrong with that. I don't go around criticizing people for what racquets they choose, whether they're $50 or $500. I like what I like and other people should play what they like.
Also, I'm not super keen on threads that start as a negative. Why post about a racquet you want to hate on? Why not instead post about a racquet that you really love? Then maybe I'll go out and try one. That comment isn't necessarily pointed at you, dak.
Tommy Haas
Hall of Fame
The PK Redondo 98 MP seems to have identical specs to the PT57A. Only differences I can see are that it's 100% graphite compared to the PT57A's graphite and Twaron (Kevlar) composition.
This could be another current frame that's a decent PT57A replacement along with the Head Microgel Radical MP. I myself am just going to wait for the Wilson Ultra Tour racket. The H19 is close enough for me.
This could be another current frame that's a decent PT57A replacement along with the Head Microgel Radical MP. I myself am just going to wait for the Wilson Ultra Tour racket. The H19 is close enough for me.
FearlessAnimal
Rookie
every racquets are equal but some racquets are more equal than others
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
Youre twisting my words to fit your narative. Because I enjoy the FEEL of one racquet over another and I am enjoying playing with that racquet makes me feel confident is magic? I see, I should play with a racquet I don't like playing with? For your education I have been playing with the Prestige Classic since they were new to the market and sold at retail. I have found what I like and what works for me. I suggest you find a racquet that works for you and you enjoy using. You sound like a racquetholic who is constantly changing racquets looking for that magic racquet that will lift your game to the next level.
The only thing that I have found that truly improves one's tennis is hard work, working on good technique, and most of all working on good footwork and getting low!!
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vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
Using the word "cult" was a joke and playful use of words. The thread was to cover a discussion over all the racquets that have used the PT57 mold or series of racquets. Get over yourself.
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mhkeuns
Hall of Fame
I love the classic frames like the Prestige Classic, POG Mid & St. Vincent/Chicago Pro Staff Mid. To me, they are special frames because I grew up honing my skills using those frames. Those were the top of the line frames among many, many frames. There is a big following for the above frames because they are that great.
That said, some of the modern frames are just as great as the classics. I love the powerful baseline game using the Pure Strike Tour. I love the feel of the new Blade CV, Textreme Tour 95 and the Pro Staff 97S. The Prestige MP's are as awesome as ever.
I do not agree that there is nothing special about the Pro Stick or best of the classic frames. They are special frames. I also do not agree that most of the new frames are garbage. I don't think a word "hate" belongs in describing a racket; any rackets for that matter. Just find the frames that suit your needs and enjoy the game.
That said, some of the modern frames are just as great as the classics. I love the powerful baseline game using the Pure Strike Tour. I love the feel of the new Blade CV, Textreme Tour 95 and the Pro Staff 97S. The Prestige MP's are as awesome as ever.
I do not agree that there is nothing special about the Pro Stick or best of the classic frames. They are special frames. I also do not agree that most of the new frames are garbage. I don't think a word "hate" belongs in describing a racket; any rackets for that matter. Just find the frames that suit your needs and enjoy the game.
floydcouncil
Professional
Folks, posts like this is a rarity here on this bull board. Bravo!!!
sbaniak
Rookie
I am with macatack. Posts that start with / from a negative position are at their essence, idiotic. I am all for giving your opinion when asked... But if I started a new post to document everything that disappointed me, I'd never get anything else done. Total reverse über-Troll move.
macattack
Professional
I'm always interested in hearing why people don't like racquets that I happen to like. I'm also interested in hearing why people like racquets that I personally don't like. The variety of opinion is a wonderful thing. I'm just not a fan of threads started for the sole purpose of crapping on a racquet that some people on here really like.
macattack
Professional
Actually, posts like that telling people what they should do are pretty common here on this board...
they arent ready to hear that someone doesnt find the Austrian magic .
But when other guy says that Graphene is 11 stars, then it is ok to mock
Tommy Haas
Hall of Fame
The Head haters (users who can't get a PT57A) and Head lovers (users who play with a PT57A) can rejoice when the Wilson Ultra Tour, an H19 if the rumors are true, is finally released.
It's a smart move by Wilson to meet a very obvious consumer demand. Whether the PT57A/H19 is really all that good in the hands of amateurs isn't the point. There's a demand that Wilson chose to meet while Head chooses to ignore it.
It's a smart move by Wilson to meet a very obvious consumer demand. Whether the PT57A/H19 is really all that good in the hands of amateurs isn't the point. There's a demand that Wilson chose to meet while Head chooses to ignore it.
macattack
Professional
Except that's the exact opposite of what I said. So make up what you will.
zalive
Hall of Fame
I wonder how's possible to have the same layup, yet a lighter platform? Is the difference solely in the handle?
Speaking of this, Ti.Rad MIA and iRad L6 MICZR feel a lot different to me. I really like how Czech iRad plays, it has more power, more spin and is even more accurate, but it's on a stiff side and I can feel it in my arm.
But otherwise, d*mn me if playing with the best suited racquet can't make 0.25 NTRP difference, compared to playing with not well suited racquet.
THIS!!!! Very wise, man.
I love the PT57A and my i.Prestige MP, but i think there are some good new racquets out here.
And i love the GrapeneXT Prestige MP. If someone wants to bash me, be my guest. I don't care. Bring it on!!
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slicendice
New User
I've never played with an Austrian made Head so I wouldn't know anything about how they feel. Now, I can say that my Chinese made PT280 feels a thousand times better to me than the Graphene XT Prestige Pro I demoed last week. I'd stop playing tennis if I had to play with that hollow feeling racquet. The only thing I like about that racquet is the paintjob. Different strokes.
treblings
Hall of Fame
n8dawg6
Legend
but is there really any other consideration? we could solve all the perplexities of gear selection if we just bought what looks cool.
FearlessAnimal
Rookie
It's why I stick to IG mid instead of buying it as PT292.1 with other pjobs -- in full sunlight it's so sparky and glimmering... nothing better for duel at high noon
slicendice
New User
I never liked the paintjob on the PT280, but I still play with it.
Guess I'm doing this tennis thing all wrong!
TennisHound
Legend
Is this an anti-PT57, or an anti-VS thread?
n8dawg6
Legend
totally wrong, dude!I never liked the paintjob on the PT280, but I still play with it.
roger presley
Hall of Fame
We'll see about that H19 thing,when it comes out.
Nothing against VS. He is a great tt member who gives useful info when you ask.
Its against the pt57 myth
