question on vantage

[mawashi]

Try Sven Goth at:
sven@vantagetennis.com
Vantage Sport Int'l
561-893-9511 Fax

I understand that Sven doesn't get the mails directly from the UK site so you may try his mail instead.

mawashi

 

[Ronny]

hey just wondering, if a frame is 9pts headlight unstrung...how much hl would it be strung?

 

[mawashi]

I haven't been able to measure mine accurately but according to Sven it'll be about 10mm difference so a 9 may be a 7.

Cheers,

mawashi

 

[larry10s]

pjn if you like wilson grips get the w(3) in the grip size you want. according to sven the strings add about 15 grams which changes the balance about 8mm(close to 10mm ) which is 2-3 points. however if you use a dampener and over grip that and for example i have a ruuber loop that holds the overgrip imstead of the tape so all of that adds 5 - 10 grams more weight so the final balance point changes by about 2 points. the about is a guide because there. will be a slight range. pjn the specs you chise i love great plowthrough and maneuverabilty. pick your flex and you are ready to go. email sven the usa rep for vantage. once you connect he is very knowledgeable and will be able to help you decide. you may have to email a few times based on comments by many on these boards although for me it has not been a problem., you have my email if there is anything you want to ask directly.

 

[larry10s]

pjn if you look at the grip choices underneath the numbers you will h,d,w,p, these stand for similar shape grips to head ,dunlop, wilson, prince respectively

 

[PJN]

I think I will go for 70 RA. But now I am considering a 18 x 20 pattern. Because with more powerful frames I like the extra control it gives (for example, a wilson n-code 6.1 I only like with 18 x 20; however this frame is too powerful for me anyway).

Does anyone have experience with 16 x 90 or 18 x 20 in a 95 RA 70 frame? Will it not become too stiff feeling?

It remains a bit difficult chosing on paper without trying.

By the way thanks for all the very valuable feedback I get before making my order; much appreciated! And I did mail the company so I might get feedback next week.

 

[mawashi]

I've tried the N95 and felt that it was more powerful than the Vantage maybe cus the 16/18 patten gave it more spin and the frame was like 8 pts hl.

I would rather stick with 16x19 on the vantage as I found that even with that patten I don't get spin as easily as with some other frames.

mawashi

 

[origmarm]

I've tried the N95 and felt that it was more powerful than the Vantage maybe cus the 16/18 patten gave it more spin and the frame was like 8 pts hl.

I would rather stick with 16x19 on the vantage as I found that even with that patten I don't get spin as easily as with some other frames.

mawashi

Second this, definitely preferred the 16*19. Not the spinniest frame in the world even in that setup. The pattern is relatively closed in the centre compared to the edges also. Having played with a 16*18 Wilson and an 18*20 Head I would say the stringbed is somewhere in between in terms of response. It definitely felt more "closed" than a 16*18 Wilson (old PSC 6.1)

 

[0d1n]

Oh well ... I guess it depends where you're coming from.
Coming from Volkl 98 16x19's I can tell you that even the 95 Vantage has a more open string pattern than any of the 98 volkl's I've played (6 mains in the throat for the vantage, 8 mains in the throat for the Volkl's).
Same thing when compared with Fischer's with 16 mains (Pro no 1 series).
I guess if you want a comparison in string pattern, the RDS/RDX 98's and or Dunlop Mfil/AG 300/Maxply McEnroe Graphite would be similar but not identical.
Maybe a yonex RD-7 as well, even though as far as I remember the pattern on the RD-7 was a bit more "even" across the racket face, and the pattern on the Vantage is a bit more "progressive" (distance between strings varies a bit more). The center (sweet area) strings though are very close IMO.
I find the frames very spinny, in fact the 63 flex 100 sq inch head Vantage might just be the easiest frame to generate huge topspin with I've ever tried.
The 95 is not far behind...and provides slightly better control (less deflection from the string bed).

The 95 18x20 has a string pattern which is VERY similar to the prestige MP series (i.e a bit more closed than the Wilson 6.1 18x20 series).

 

[mawashi]

Oh well ... I guess it depends where you're coming from.
Coming from Volkl 98 16x19's I can tell you that even the 95 Vantage has a more open string pattern than any of the 98 volkl's I've played (6 mains in the throat for the vantage, 8 mains in the throat for the Volkl's).
Same thing when compared with Fischer's with 16 mains (Pro no 1 series).
I guess if you want a comparison in string pattern, the RDS/RDX 98's and or Dunlop Mfil/AG 300/Maxply McEnroe Graphite would be similar but not identical.
Maybe a yonex RD-7 as well, even though as far as I remember the pattern on the RD-7 was a bit more "even" across the racket face, and the pattern on the Vantage is a bit more "progressive" (distance between strings varies a bit more). The center (sweet area) strings though are very close IMO.
I find the frames very spinny, in fact the 63 flex 100 sq inch head Vantage might just be the easiest frame to generate huge topspin with I've ever tried.
The 95 is not far behind...and provides slightly better control (less deflection from the string bed).

The 95 18x20 has a string pattern which is VERY similar to the prestige MP series (i.e a bit more closed than the Wilson 6.1 18x20 series).

I have a couple of 100 63RA frames and having used frames like the APDC, Pure control team, RDS003 I find that the Vantage 100 does generate generous spin shots but most importantly I get spin n pace.

It doesn't have the huge spin on the APDC but what I get is good spin but better pace. I found that a lot of my energy was wasted when I used the APDC because I play on hard courts I don't get the depth and worst my shots don't bounce high enough to cause serious problems to my opponent.

I'm currently very confortable using the Yonex RDS 003, RDS 002 Tour and the Vantage 100. I'm leaving my Vantage 90s n K90 till when I get to a level that I can realy maximize these frames.

mawashi

 

[larry10s]

pjn an 18x20 string pattern will defintely be more control oriented compared to the 16x19. for me i needed the little extra depth fro the 16x19 when i tried the 2 patterns side by side.

 

[PJN]

Try Sven Goth at:
smgoth@gmail.com
Vantage Sport Int'l
561-893-9511 Fax

I understand that Sven doesn't get the mails directly from the UK site so you may try his mail instead.

I did fill in the form on the website twice now (3 and 2 weeks ago) and mailed directly to Sven Goth a week ago but I did not get a reply until now..

I asked a few additional questions, but after the valuable input of all I am quit sure what I will order (95, 330 g, 10 points head light, gripsize 3, leather grip, black color, 18 x 20, and flex 70). However I am still curious if I can test or change if it doesn't fit, because it remains difficult ' on paper'

I also asked if there will be a 50% off sale in February, like some of you suggest, because that would be worth waiting for..

 

[PJN]

I meant grip shape 3 (wilson like)

 

[Frankauc]

the fact that they arent answering emails is really annoying and unprofessionnal

 

[Deleted member 25923]

For grip shapes, does H=Head, D=Dunlop, etc?

Also, what happened to the cool customizing page that looked like nike id? It like went back to their old customization page...

 

[GPB]

For grip shapes, does H=Head, D=Dunlop, etc?

Exactly

 

[GPB]

nevermind...

 

[PJN]

the fact that they arent answering emails is really annoying and unprofessionnal

They just answered me!

 

[Racketdesign]

the fact that they arent answering emails is really annoying and unprofessionnal

I can imagine. Sometimes on web contact forms.. people make a spelling mistake when they enter thier email address...that might explain some replies not getting back.

What question have you had unanswered?

 

[GPB]

I also asked if there will be a 50% off sale in February, like some of you suggest, because that would be worth waiting for..

AND....... ?

Oh, and Hi, Paul! Can you update us on the "Team Vantage" status? Right now, the website says "2008 applications will be accepted shortly." I've been talking to Sven about matching my frame, but can't pull the $221+ trigger.

 

[PJN]

AND....... ?

No answer on the sale question, but very good technical info..

 

[mawashi]

I did fill in the form on the website twice now (3 and 2 weeks ago) and mailed directly to Sven Goth a week ago but I did not get a reply until now..

I asked a few additional questions, but after the valuable input of all I am quit sure what I will order (95, 330 g, 10 points head light, gripsize 3, leather grip, black color, 18 x 20, and flex 70). However I am still curious if I can test or change if it doesn't fit, because it remains difficult ' on paper'

I also asked if there will be a 50% off sale in February, like some of you suggest, because that would be worth waiting for..

Good to hear that you have decided on the specs however, 10 pts hl on a 330g frame and it might be a bit hard to swing. From what Sven told me, some of the most popular frames from pp who have used them is a 12 hl for such a heavy frame.

Anyway, I doubt very much that there will be any more 50% sales anymore as those were made to advertise and spread the word bout Vantage.

Sven n Paul might come up with a sale soon but don't keep you hopes up that it'll be that cheap anymore.

mawashi

 

[Frankauc]

I can imagine. Sometimes on web contact forms.. people make a spelling mistake when they enter thier email address...that might explain some replies not getting back.

What question have you had unanswered?

no error. But i just had my email answered. Thanks. I was asking something regarding the colors of the frames. It look like the junior frames are more shiny than the normal frames witch are "mat" . Am i right?

 

[PJN]

10 pts hl on a 330g frame and it might be a bit hard to swing. From what Sven told me, some of the most popular frames from pp who have used them is a 12 hl for such a heavy frame.

From earlier posts I understood that these specs would result in a swingweight around 330. That would be fine, I do not want to have it much higher though. What do you think? I have a k blade tour, for example, and that is just a tad too light and instable for me. I like heavy frames but I also like head light frames..

 

[mawashi]

From earlier posts I understood that these specs would result in a swingweight around 330. That would be fine, I do not want to have it much higher though. What do you think? I have a k blade tour, for example, and that is just a tad too light and instable for me. I like heavy frames but I also like head light frames..

I had the KBT too and I did not find it as unstable as some would say however, I would say it does not have the feel I like in a frame.

Stability isn't just about the weight but where the weight is located. I found that some light frames have pretty good stability due to the way it is constructed like the APDC.

I'm still trying some things here and I'm kidda new to this stuff anyway but my first 2 vantages were 9 pts hl balance 320g yet even through they are more head heavy that my latest vantages (325g & 9 pts hl strung) the heavier n more hl frames seem more solid and stable.

I found this out too when I placed 8g of lead at the handle of my Yonex rds003.

With more weight at the throat and handle, the frame feels better balanced and more stable than when I just placed some tape @ the 3 & 9 o'clock position??

Another adv of a frame being more hl is that there's room to further customize it easier than if it was more head heavy.

Just my 2 cents.

mawashi

 

[1012007]

I can imagine. Sometimes on web contact forms.. people make a spelling mistake when they enter thier email address...that might explain some replies not getting back.

What question have you had unanswered?

Hello Paul, its James.
When are you next available to talk?

 

[buckie9]

OK, great thread guys. I just discovered Vantage today and have been reading all threads about it. I (like a lot of people here) am in a search for new frames.

I am a solid 4.0 serve and volleyer (maybe this year a 4.5..???) and counterpuncher , 40 yrs old and currently play with nblade (not in production, hence the search). I am considering a
95inc (98 for the nb),
310gr (304 nb),
16/19 (18/20 the nblade),
10pts HL (6pts HL the nb),
63 flex (58 for the nb).

Concerning the slight changes i think i can use i littke more weight, but not too much. The kbt i demoed gets me tired and my back aches from the serving. Maybe 315 would be perfect. As for the string pattern i think that a bit more spin would also be nice....but will control be lost??? Finally, i think that a bit more HL will help my volleying. Is that right??

In terms of power, feel, stability etc. what do these specs tell you.

Oh, i string my sticks with BB Timo 17 @ 26...just to give you an idea.

For any feedback...thx in advance!!!!!!!!!

 

[mawashi]

OK, great thread guys. I just discovered Vantage today and have been reading all threads about it. I (like a lot of people here) am in a search for new frames.

I am a solid 4.0 serve and volleyer (maybe this year a 4.5..???) and counterpuncher , 40 yrs old and currently play with nblade (not in production, hence the search). I am considering a
95inc (98 for the nb),
310gr (304 nb),
16/19 (18/20 the nblade),
10pts HL (6pts HL the nb),
63 flex (58 for the nb).

Concerning the slight changes i think i can use i littke more weight, but not too much. The kbt i demoed gets me tired and my back aches from the serving. Maybe 315 would be perfect. As for the string pattern i think that a bit more spin would also be nice....but will control be lost??? Finally, i think that a bit more HL will help my volleying. Is that right??

In terms of power, feel, stability etc. what do these specs tell you.

Oh, i string my sticks with BB Timo 17 @ 26...just to give you an idea.

For any feedback...thx in advance!!!!!!!!!

I can only comment on my frames and I found that my 95sq in, 70ra, 9pts hl & 320g was slightly less stable than my current 95sq in, 63ra, 11hl & 325g.

I can't comment about the stability of a frame that's just 310g as I feel you should play with as heavy a frame as you can handle.

As with a lot of posters, I would really recommend that you speak to Sven at Vantage with his contact provided as he can really help you decide on what is best for you.

I found that with a 16x19 string patten on the Vantage I was even more accurate than with a K90 or the KBT, in fact I have never felt more confident with accuracy than when I'm using my Vantages.

Cheers,

mawashi

 

[activentures]

I too am looking to make the Vantage switch and so this thread has been great reading for me. I am looking at 95sqin 27" 320g 10HL.

My big question mark is over the flexibility and I am currently thinking of going for the 70. I grew up using the PS 6.1 Classic and then PS 85, and more recently used the Ncode 95. I also had a Bab Storm for a while which I got free for coaching. All of these frames are pretty stiff and therefore, although I keep hearing how flexy frames have more feel and are "buttery", having grown up using sticks at the stiffer end of the scale they just seem more natural to me. I was worried that 70 may be a bit high (Don't want it as stiff as the Bab)and so was glad to see posts suggesting they play nearer 67 when strung. I was given a Dunlop Mfil 200 and I love the feel of it in my hand but it just has too much flex for me.

I guess I want something that plays similar to a Wilson six-one but without the the Wilson grip and with slightly less weight (I can play about with lead if neccessary). Is it fair to say that the 70RA plays "flexier" than Babolats and more like the Wilson and that the 63RA would be closer to the Mfil?

 

[mawashi]

I too am looking to make the Vantage switch and so this thread has been great reading for me. I am looking at 95sqin 27" 320g 10HL.

My big question mark is over the flexibility and I am currently thinking of going for the 70. I grew up using the PS 6.1 Classic and then PS 85, and more recently used the Ncode 95. I also had a Bab Storm for a while which I got free for coaching. All of these frames are pretty stiff and therefore, although I keep hearing how flexy frames have more feel and are "buttery", having grown up using sticks at the stiffer end of the scale they just seem more natural to me. I was worried that 70 may be a bit high (Don't want it as stiff as the Bab)and so was glad to see posts suggesting they play nearer 67 when strung. I was given a Dunlop Mfil 200 and I love the feel of it in my hand but it just has too much flex for me.

I guess I want something that plays similar to a Wilson six-one but without the the Wilson grip and with slightly less weight (I can play about with lead if neccessary). Is it fair to say that the 70RA plays "flexier" than Babolats and more like the Wilson and that the 63RA would be closer to the Mfil?

Yup the Vantage 70RA does seem to play softer than a babo n is more comfortable than a wilson n95. The 63RA will play softer than the Dunlop
cus the 63RA Vantage is measured before strung, after it's strung it'll be 60RA or thereabouts.

The specs (95sqin 27" 320g 10HL) you mentioned sound very nice n will feel very comfortable.

I remembered Sven saying to me that his most popular frames are the 90sq in, 27" 330g 12HL. I'm thinking that you should ask Sven if that combination will work better for you in a 95 sq in frame.

mawashi

 

[larry10s]

when you say wilson 6.1 i assume you mean 6.1 95. yes? a 330gm eacquet unstrung will weigh 345 grams strung approximately. which = 12.1 oz . lighter than the 2 wilsons but not with alot of tweaking room. when you add dampener and overgrip you will probably be at around 12.4 oz. after stringing your 12 pt hl racquet will probably be 9-10 pts. hope this helps

 

[Seacoast Stringer]

I guess I want something that plays similar to a Wilson six-one but without the the Wilson grip and with slightly less weight (I can play about with lead if neccessary). Is it fair to say that the 70RA plays "flexier" than Babolats and more like the Wilson and that the 63RA would be closer to the Mfil?

Yes, In my experience the 70 flex Vantage plays flexier than the Babs (my Vantage 70 frames feel like about 66-67 flex at most...and are quite comfortable. The 63 flex Vantage is VERY comfortable and as the other poster(s) have mentioned is more like a 60 or so. I came from a Wilson 6.1 and, even though I eventually increased my head size to 100"...the Vantage with a similar spec to the 6.1 will feel more comfortable - with maybe slightly less power. Good luck!

 

[mozzer]

I too am looking to make the Vantage switch and so this thread has been great reading for me. I am looking at 95sqin 27" 320g 10HL.

My big question mark is over the flexibility and I am currently thinking of going for the 70. I grew up using the PS 6.1 Classic and then PS 85, and more recently used the Ncode 95. I also had a Bab Storm for a while which I got free for coaching. All of these frames are pretty stiff and therefore, although I keep hearing how flexy frames have more feel and are "buttery", having grown up using sticks at the stiffer end of the scale they just seem more natural to me. I was worried that 70 may be a bit high (Don't want it as stiff as the Bab)and so was glad to see posts suggesting they play nearer 67 when strung. I was given a Dunlop Mfil 200 and I love the feel of it in my hand but it just has too much flex for me.

I guess I want something that plays similar to a Wilson six-one but without the the Wilson grip and with slightly less weight (I can play about with lead if neccessary). Is it fair to say that the 70RA plays "flexier" than Babolats and more like the Wilson and that the 63RA would be closer to the Mfil?

Great specs, 70 ra is great, not too stiff at all.

 

[Frankauc]

that's EXACTLY what ill get activentures. Still waiting the sale

 

[PJN]

I am also waiting for a possible sale, and might even order two rackets at once then. I have decided on the specs after all the very good feedback, except for one:
95 SI
70 RA
330 grams
16 x 19
leather grip
black

I was almost sure to have it 10 points head light.
Will it swing comparable with PS n-6.1 95? Earlier, the SW of a vantage with these specs was estimated at 330 which would be perfect for me. Is that correct, or will it swing heavier being a bit less head light than N95?

 

[origmarm]

I'm not sure there will be a sale this year. I've got a feeling that they probably feel they have generated the necessary level of awareness at this point and that they are just canibalising their regular sales with people waiting for the discounts at this point. We shall see....

 

[buckie9]

Somebody wrote earlier in this thread that it takes 2 weeks for them to reply to e-mails,,,,is this true???
I am talking for the european site and i have written them 2 days ago what my thoughts and my style of play and still no reply.

 

[origmarm]

Somebody wrote earlier in this thread that it takes 2 weeks for them to reply to e-mails,,,,is this true???
I am talking for the european site and i have written them 2 days ago what my thoughts and my style of play and still no reply.

As I believe it's just Paul replying to emails it tends to vary depending on whether he is in the office or not and what the mail is i.e. if it's a 2 sentence reply I believe it's quicker. I think that's what he told me when I called a while back (May?)

He's always been pretty good in the past when I've mailed him but sometimes the response time is variable.

 

[mawashi]

I am also waiting for a possible sale, and might even order two rackets at once then. I have decided on the specs after all the very good feedback, except for one:
95 SI
70 RA
330 grams
16 x 19
leather grip
black

I was almost sure to have it 10 points head light.
Will it swing comparable with PS n-6.1 95? Earlier, the SW of a vantage with these specs was estimated at 330 which would be perfect for me. Is that correct, or will it swing heavier being a bit less head light than N95?

I will swing heavier than 330g cus the N95 is 10 hl strung while your specs are 10 hl unstrung and should be 8 hl strung or thereabouts with a dampener.

If you want to match the specs of a N95 you might want to consider 11 to 12 pts hl but also take note that the thickness of the Vantage beam is 20mm while the N95 is 22mm so the Vantage will swing ever so slightly faster n lighter cus of the aerodynamics of the frame.

You might also want to contact Sven about the sale as I'm almost certain there won't be a 50% sale anymore.

On another note, it have also experience problems getting in touch with Paul that's why I recommend that you contact Sven instead.

mawashi

 

[buckie9]

Ok, vantage guys after reading all your comments and other great stuff i am very close to a desicion and order. Its a 95inc, 63flex, 16*19, 320gr. My only concern is still between the 9 or the 10 pt hl. Will it really matter you think? Which will be better for SnV? Does the 10HL lose a lot of feel on the head? I would reeeealy hate to further costumize.
The 10 will swing faster, and the 9 will be more solid on returns?

 

[Seacoast Stringer]

Ok, vantage guys after reading all your comments and other great stuff i am very close to a desicion and order. Its a 95inc, 63flex, 16*19, 320gr. My only concern is still between the 9 or the 10 pt hl. Will it really matter you think? Which will be better for SnV? Does the 10HL lose a lot of feel on the head? I would reeeealy hate to further costumize.
The 10 will swing faster, and the 9 will be more solid on returns?

Good choice! Frankly, to me one point of balance isn't a big deal..especially at 9 vs 10hl. If it is a toss up, why not go with 10ptHL. You can always stick on a very small strip of lead if you want to drop it a point. Good luck.

 

[mawashi]

Good choice! Frankly, to me one point of balance isn't a big deal..especially at 9 vs 10hl. If it is a toss up, why not go with 10ptHL. You can always stick on a very small strip of lead if you want to drop it a point. Good luck.

Agree 10hl n I can tell you it's going to feel like a more comfortable KBT with better accuracy n better spin.

The actual difference between 9, 10 n 12 is just 5mm each but yes, I do second 10pts n it should be something like 7 pts hl when it's strung with a dampener.

If you want to make it more hl then just put some lead in the butt cap.

mawashi

 

[skierpaul]

Vantage 90 vs Dunlop AG100

Anyone know if the Dunlop AG100 is much more powerful than the 70RA Vantage 90?

Also, how does the 63RA version of the 90 compare to the 70RA? I would assume that the flexier racket would be less powerful.

Any help would be much appreciated. I just need a little more juice on my shots and high powered strings arn't giving me the results that I would like.

 

[mawashi]

Anyone know if the Dunlop AG100 is much more powerful than the 70RA Vantage 90?

Also, how does the 63RA version of the 90 compare to the 70RA? I would assume that the flexier racket would be less powerful.

Any help would be much appreciated. I just need a little more juice on my shots and high powered strings arn't giving me the results that I would like.

Can't comment on the power levels of the AG100 vs a Vantage cus I've never used an AG100 or a V90.

As for the 63 vs the 70, the 63 is less powerful but gives quite a bit more spin to the shot.

What's your current frame that is so underpower?

mawashi

 

[skierpaul]

I have the 70RA right now. I love the feel of it, I'm just having problems generating depth unless I swing for the moon, and then my technique and timing goes to pot. I was thinking about temporarily switching to the AG100 until I got a little better and could confidentally strike the ball deeper without penalty. I'm getting hammered in matches due to my appetizing short balls.

 

[sandflea]

Vantage

skierpaul, what is your rackets weight and balance? Have you tried adding some lead to the head yet? That may help with the depth on your strokes or lowering the tension a bit.

I have the 70RA right now. I love the feel of it, I'm just having problems generating depth unless I swing for the moon, and then my technique and timing goes to pot. I was thinking about temporarily switching to the AG100 until I got a little better and could confidentally strike the ball deeper without penalty. I'm getting hammered in matches due to my appetizing short balls.

 

[mawashi]

I have the 70RA right now. I love the feel of it, I'm just having problems generating depth unless I swing for the moon, and then my technique and timing goes to pot. I was thinking about temporarily switching to the AG100 until I got a little better and could confidentally strike the ball deeper without penalty. I'm getting hammered in matches due to my appetizing short balls.

70 ra what?

What's the specs?

 

[ClubHoUno]

Usually in February Vantage custom racquets are being sold at half price - one week in February.

I bought two custom Vantage last year at half price and really liked them, just didn't get them in the proper specifications for my game.

This time around I'm a wiser guy and know much more about what specifications will suit me - so I'm ready to oder 2 or more of these great 75% customized racquets, but I'm waiting on the discount special offer week.

Does anybody know when the Vantage 50% sale will start

I started this thread about the topic:

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=243861

 

[buckie9]

Any opinions on the vantage strings? Which is the poly and the multi?

 

[origmarm]

Any opinions on the vantage strings? Which is the poly and the multi?

The multi for me was an average multi, no stand out characteristics, not too crisp, not too mushy, decent durability. The poly I haven't tried.