Q for Chris: Recommendations for a cross in a poly/multi hybrid, & gut/poly tensions?

[Hi I'm Ray]

I was wondering if you could give me any recommendations for a cross string to use in a poly/multi hybrid at around $12-$13 max.

I'm currently using Tour Bite 16L or 17 mains with Rip Control 16 or 17 crosses in most of my frames. I like this combo a lot, control, feel, spin, comfort, tension maintenance, durability are all good, and the response feels very even across the stringbed. Of course I'm also interested to see what else is out there. I'm looking for a multi that has somewhat of "slick" surface with decent durability. The kind of "gummy" multi's that prevent the poly mains from snapping back haven't really worked out for me.

I'm also looking to try a gut/poly hybrid for the first time (previously only tried gut in a full bed) and will probably go with Klip Legend 15L or Pacific Tough Gut 16 mains / 4G 1.25mm or Proline X 1.25mm crosses. What tension would you recommend if I currently use a Yonex VC 100s w/Tour Bite 17/Rip Control crosses @ 53lbs?

Any recommendations would really help. Thanks!

 

[TW Staff]

I had our resident string guru, Jonathan, help me out here since I have been hitting mostly polys and feel a tad distanced from multi performance these days.

He recommended Head FXP Tour as a good option. It should feel a tad softer than Rip Control and at 8.95 for a full set, is pretty budget friendly. It is also pretty slick on the surface and should allow the poly to move freely.

Gosen AK Control also offers a soft/slippery combo according to our lab data. It should also prove to be more durable than a multi.

I would bump up the poly gut a couple of pounds as the gut is going to be more responsive. It will also offer better comfort which will offset the bump in tension. Titan 15L in a half set is only 10.99, which is a great deal. Titan is basically Legend seconds. We are currently out of stock, but have an ETA of 10/28 for more. It is getting tougher to get since Legend production consistency has improved and there is much less Titan available due to that.

Hope that helps.

Chris, TW

 

[Hi I'm Ray]

Really appreciate the help, order placed for the stuff that was in stock. Thanks Chris!