Shaped / Textured vs Rounded Strings

[erbs101]

Hello,
Is it correct to assume that Shaped or Textured Strings will generate more spin over Smooth round strings ? If yes, what will happen to shaped / textured strings when they loose there edge or texture. Would the spin potential of the textured string drop below the smooth round string ?

If my guess is right that textured strings will have less spin potential when they loose there texture which is typically fast maybe after 1-2 weeks in my experience playing 4 times a week (9-15hrs total) doubles, singles and training.

Which round poly string would have the best spin potential ? Just guessing here, that the following round strings will have the most spin potential

> head hawk 16g
> head lynx 16g
> babolat rpm blast 17g
> yonex poly pro 17g

Any recommendation is greatly appreciated assuming round is better over textured string to generate more spin once the edge gets dull.

Right now im left with 2 packs of volkl cyclone tour 17g, and sadly looking for one is hard in our country or too expensive bec. of the shipping cost. I like the string and have no complains maybe expect for being too soft maybe its bec of my rebel 98 which has a low stiffness rating aswel 56.

Thank you in advance.

 

[SpinToWin]

Round strings have a better playability duration and play more consistently. My favourite shaped poly is Head Sonic Pro Edge as it does not seem to lose its edges at all (since they are not sharp to begin with).

Which round poly you hit the heaviest spin with depends on you more than anything else. If you hit very big with a lot of racquet head speed, a more low powered poly like Head Hawk or Solinco Outlast will allow you to maximize spin. If you have a more controlled stroke and you need some power from the string to get depth, a more high powered poly like Tourna Black Zone is your best bet.

 

[Roddickulous]

Round strings have a better playability duration and play more consistently. My favourite shaped poly is Head Sonic Pro Edge as it does not seem to lose its edges at all (since they are not sharp to begin with).

Which round poly you hit the heaviest spin with depends on you more than anything else. If you hit very big with a lot of racquet head speed, a more low powered poly like Head Hawk or Solinco Outlast will allow you to maximize spin. If you have a more controlled stroke and you need some power from the string to get depth, a more high powered poly like Tourna Black Zone is your best bet.

Totally agreed. If you don't have a very fast 5.0+ swingspeed, then you're limited to the ball bite of a shaped poly. If you have a very fast swingspeed then you are strong enough to bend the poly and reap the "snapback effect" of the string. If shaped strings got more spin than rounded strings you'd see top pros using Solinco Barb Wire, Dunlop Juice, Volkl Cyclone Tour, and other rinky-dink spin producing offerings from companies who like to think they know a thing or two about strings.

 

[erbs101]

Round strings have a better playability duration and play more consistently. My favourite shaped poly is Head Sonic Pro Edge as it does not seem to lose its edges at all (since they are not sharp to begin with).

Which round poly you hit the heaviest spin with depends on you more than anything else. If you hit very big with a lot of racquet head speed, a more low powered poly like Head Hawk or Solinco Outlast will allow you to maximize spin. If you have a more controlled stroke and you need some power from the string to get depth, a more high powered poly like Tourna Black Zone is your best bet.

Hello,
Is head sonic pro edge similar to tecnifibre black code or dunlop black widow ? if so, i had the experienced in using both and after several weeks its pentagonal shape becomes rounded thus im guessing the spin potential drops significantly.

Black widow is one of the sharpest strings pentagonal strings i've ever tried and if your stringer isn't experienced enough he could cut himself while handling the string. Too bad after several weeks it looses its shape and becomes rounded.

Did i read it correctly that round string would be better in the long run over textured / shaped strings as it plays consistently ?

Is RPM blast in between a shaped poly and a round one ? bec its shape is somewhat like a flower and it becomes rounded so quickly almost after several hours of hitting. But based on reviews RPM blast generates lots of spin.

Thanks

 

[erbs101]

Round strings have a better playability duration and play more consistently. My favourite shaped poly is Head Sonic Pro Edge as it does not seem to lose its edges at all (since they are not sharp to begin with).

Which round poly you hit the heaviest spin with depends on you more than anything else. If you hit very big with a lot of racquet head speed, a more low powered poly like Head Hawk or Solinco Outlast will allow you to maximize spin. If you have a more controlled stroke and you need some power from the string to get depth, a more high powered poly like Tourna Black Zone is your best bet.

As for my stroke i can say i have a moderate to slightly fast swing. What other round shaped strings have you played that gives lots of spin and nice overall.

I hope there are strings in the following as these are the ones which i have easy access.
> babolat
> head
> tecnifibre
> dunlop
> wilson
> yonex
> luxilon = i find it too expensive

Would a hybrid offer more spin or just the same ?

Thanks

 

[SpinToWin]

Hello,
Is head sonic pro edge similar to tecnifibre black code or dunlop black widow ? if so, i had the experienced in using both and after several weeks its pentagonal shape becomes rounded thus im guessing the spin potential drops significantly.

Black widow is one of the sharpest strings pentagonal strings i've ever tried and if your stringer isn't experienced enough he could cut himself while handling the string. Too bad after several weeks it looses its shape and becomes rounded.

Did i read it correctly that round string would be better in the long run over textured / shaped strings as it plays consistently ?

Is RPM blast in between a shaped poly and a round one ? bec its shape is somewhat like a flower and it becomes rounded so quickly almost after several hours of hitting. But based on reviews RPM blast generates lots of spin.

Thanks

I would consider Head Sonic Pro Edge to be a go-between of the two strings you mentioned. It has less power and spin than Black Widow, however it has much more control. It also is much more predictable and durable and it is great for touch shots. It really is one of the most under-appreciated polys I know of, definitely worth a try.

Round strings generally play more consistently as their shape does not wear off and they often notch slower.

RPM Blast is not a string I recommend. It is extremely overpriced and not durable at all. It loses its playability in a matter of a few hours and after that it is no more than a mediocre poly. Spin, power and touch initially is good, but unless you feel like restringing an expensive poly every 2-4 hours, look elsewhere.

As for my stroke i can say i have a moderate to slightly fast swing. What other round shaped strings have you played that gives lots of spin and nice overall.

I hope there are strings in the following as these are the ones which i have easy access.
> babolat
> head
> tecnifibre
> dunlop
> wilson
> yonex
> luxilon = i find it too expensive

Would a hybrid offer more spin or just the same ?

Thanks

I'm guessing you are asking for both round and shaped strings, so here are my recommendations from the brands you mentioned:

Round strings:
Head Hawk
Tecnifibre Razor Code
Wilson Ripspin
Yonex Poly Tour Pro

Shaped Strings:
Head Sonic Pro Edge
Yonex Poly Tour Spin


I must ask though, do you not have access to volkl, tourna, kirschbaum or solinco strings?

Hybrids' main purpose is not to maximize spin, but to get "the best of both worlds" of the strings you hybrid, which usually means maximizing playability (duration) and comfort. The king of all hybrids are natural gut/poly hybrids, but they are veeeeery expensive so likely not for you. From what you have said, a full bed of poly seems to suit you and there is no need to overcomplicate your search for a fitting string by taking hybrids into consideration as well at this point.

 

[RetroSpin]

Blast is not round. http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Reviews/BRPMB17/BRPMB17Review.html

Almost every Bab pro uses Blast.

Blast is an awesome string that retains playability for a long, long time. It loses some of the magic, yes, but it is playable.

The best round string I have used is WC Scorpion. Nice string but it doesn't offer the spin of Blast or Tour Bite.

 

[meltedsteam]

I have been experimenting around with poly/poly hybrids.
Take a nice rough/textured string in a standard gauge and slap it in the mains, then take a slick and smooth thinner gagued string and cross it up. Best of both worlds? If those two worlds are snap-back and bite, then maybe.

 

[erbs101]

I would consider Head Sonic Pro Edge to be a go-between of the two strings you mentioned. It has less power and spin than Black Widow, however it has much more control. It also is much more predictable and durable and it is great for touch shots. It really is one of the most under-appreciated polys I know of, definitely worth a try.

Based on TW reviews it seemed to be a nice string, but again its pentagonal shaped. How long will its shape last ? Im guessing it will not last just like black code or black widow after 1-2weeks of hitting it will become rounded.

Once it has lost its shape would it still play the same or not ?

Because, black widow plays so much different after it has lost its pentagonal shape.

 

[erbs101]

Round strings:[/U]
Head Hawk
Tecnifibre Razor Code
Wilson Ripspin
Yonex Poly Tour Pro

Shaped Strings:
Head Sonic Pro Edge
Yonex Poly Tour Spin


I must ask though, do you not have access to volkl, tourna, kirschbaum or solinco strings?

Hybrids' main purpose is not to maximize spin, but to get "the best of both worlds" of the strings you hybrid, which usually means maximizing playability (duration) and comfort. The king of all hybrids are natural gut/poly hybrids, but they are veeeeery expensive so likely not for you. From what you have said, a full bed of poly seems to suit you and there is no need to overcomplicate your search for a fitting string by taking hybrids into consideration as well at this point.

Thanks for the suggestions.

The only strings i've tried the list you gave me are Head Hawk and Yonex Poly Tour Spin, I don't know if a fully bed of hawk is good as i hybrid it with cyclone tour just as you suggested.

Our country don't carry (volkl, tourna, kirschbaum or solinco), thus i have to order it online and the shipping cost is somewhat high, but.. if its worth it i'll disregard the cost for the performance.

Im happy with volkl cyclone tour 17g or 18g, but i feel its somewhat lacking.. im not sure which part is lacking. but don't get me wrong volkl cyclone tour is one of the best strings ive ever tried but i just feel its lacking somewhat to what im searching for.

Do you have any suggestion in mind ?


I don't know if theres a shaped or textured string out there that doesn't quickly loose its shaped after several hours or weeks of hitting, thats why im leaning towards round strings that could generate the best spin possible bec i don't like the temporary feeling of wow nice spin string but after the string becomes rounded the feeling of wow nice spin just vanishes.

 

[erbs101]

Blast is not round. http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Reviews/BRPMB17/BRPMB17Review.html

Almost every Bab pro uses Blast.

Blast is an awesome string that retains playability for a long, long time. It loses some of the magic, yes, but it is playable.

The best round string I have used is WC Scorpion. Nice string but it doesn't offer the spin of Blast or Tour Bite.

Hello,
I will agree with you that WC Scorpion is a great string, i have tried it and my friend uses it. Its soft on the arm, good power, nice touch and TONS of control, but yeah spin is lacking.

I've tried RPM blast twice i think, and i don't know if its any good or not, it has above average spin initially but after several hours its flower shaped pattern becomes round and its spin potential somewhat drops significantly. maybe thats just the comments im hearing from my friends but i haven't tested it fully, but im guessing it will perform similarly to any shaped strings.

 

[erbs101]

I would consider Head Sonic Pro Edge to be a go-between of the two strings you mentioned. It has less power and spin than Black Widow, however it has much more control. It also is much more predictable and durable and it is great for touch shots. It really is one of the most under-appreciated polys I know of, definitely worth a try.

I'll copy paste a player with his comment on head sonic pro edge, which i feel will be the same for all shaped strings, thats why im beginning to stay away from such type of strings.

Played on clay court with Babolat Roland Garros balls.
The string enabled an explosive and controlled game during the first 6 hours. Then the playing characteristics dropped. The profile was completely gone in the sweetspot after 8 hours of hitting. Control was still on a high level but spin potential decreased significantly.
Overall a very good string that gives you a lot of confidence on your strokes through its excellent spin and control.

Being 16 gauge it will definitely produce less spin once it becomes rounded.

So might aswell go for a 17-18-19 gauge round string don't you think ? or even on its rounded form it will still provide better spin compared to other round strings ?

Thanks

 

[SpinToWin]

Based on TW reviews it seemed to be a nice string, but again its pentagonal shaped. How long will its shape last ? Im guessing it will not last just like black code or black widow after 1-2weeks of hitting it will become rounded.

Once it has lost its shape would it still play the same or not ?

Because, black widow plays so much different after it has lost its pentagonal shape.

That's the thing about Sonic Pro Edge, the edges are not sharp, but rather smoothed over and they do not wear off much IME. I tested Sonic Pro Edge side-by-side with Black Widow. The edges on Black Widow were gone after a few hours, but Head Sonic Pro Edge still went very strong for a while after that.

 

[SpinToWin]

I'll copy paste a player with his comment on head sonic pro edge, which i feel will be the same for all shaped strings, thats why im beginning to stay away from such type of strings.



Being 16 gauge it will definitely produce less spin once it becomes rounded.

So might aswell go for a 17-18-19 gauge round string don't you think ? or even on its rounded form it will still provide better spin compared to other round strings ?

Thanks

Different strokes for different folks I guess... I loved the string and had no problems with it. Give it a test and see for yourself, what can I say.

What is the string pattern of your racquet? If you take a very thin gauge in an open string pattern that will not last long either.

 

[mikeler]

That's the thing about Sonic Pro Edge, the edges are not sharp, but rather smoothed over and they do not wear off much IME. I tested Sonic Pro Edge side-by-side with Black Widow. The edges on Black Widow were gone after a few hours, but Head Sonic Pro Edge still went very strong for a while after that.

B5E is like Sonic Pro Edge then. It has a dull profile that does not wear down.

 

[anubis]

Hello,
Is it correct to assume that Shaped or Textured Strings will generate more spin over Smooth round strings ? If yes, what will happen to shaped / textured strings when they loose there edge or texture. Would the spin potential of the textured string drop below the smooth round string ?

If my guess is right that textured strings will have less spin potential when they loose there texture which is typically fast maybe after 1-2 weeks in my experience playing 4 times a week (9-15hrs total) doubles, singles and training.

Which round poly string would have the best spin potential ? Just guessing here, that the following round strings will have the most spin potential

> head hawk 16g
> head lynx 16g
> babolat rpm blast 17g
> yonex poly pro 17g

Any recommendation is greatly appreciated assuming round is better over textured string to generate more spin once the edge gets dull.

Right now im left with 2 packs of volkl cyclone tour 17g, and sadly looking for one is hard in our country or too expensive bec. of the shipping cost. I like the string and have no complains maybe expect for being too soft maybe its bec of my rebel 98 which has a low stiffness rating aswel 56.

Thank you in advance.

There are two different ways the strings produce spin:

1. Ball to string friction: Textured strings will bite the ball and apply more force to the ball, producing more spin. Smooth strings do apply spin, but they have less ball to string friction. The rougher the string (or more sharp angled), the more friction = more spin.

2. Having a low string to string coefficient of friction: When the strings are really smooth and slide over each other well, then you get increased string "snap back" which applies force to the ball to induce spin. If the strings are very rough (such as Tecnifibre X-1 Biphase), then they will be "locked together" and not slide over each other. You will not gain any additional spin since there is no string snap-back.

And lastly, there's the obvious #3: Technique. Swing path, tip speed, racquet face, acceleration on contact, etc. Those produce spin as well.

The best way to maximize topspin is to have a little of all three things. You want good ball to string friction, low inter-string coefficient of friction, and good technique.

 

[LeeD]

Snap back, or resilientcy, might be a third way to produce spin. In some sports, it's called reflex speed, the speed the material rebounds back to original shape after loading, in this case, loading with a tennis ball.

 

[erbs101]

That's the thing about Sonic Pro Edge, the edges are not sharp, but rather smoothed over and they do not wear off much IME. I tested Sonic Pro Edge side-by-side with Black Widow. The edges on Black Widow were gone after a few hours, but Head Sonic Pro Edge still went very strong for a while after that.

hi,
how long before heads sonic pro edge's profile became totally round when you tested them out ?

Different strokes for different folks I guess... I loved the string and had no problems with it. Give it a test and see for yourself, what can I say.

What is the string pattern of your racquet? If you take a very thin gauge in an open string pattern that will not last long either.

im currently using prince rebel 98 which has a 16x20 string pattern

 

[erbs101]

There are two different ways the strings produce spin:

1. Ball to string friction: Textured strings will bite the ball and apply more force to the ball, producing more spin. Smooth strings do apply spin, but they have less ball to string friction. The rougher the string (or more sharp angled), the more friction = more spin.

2. Having a low string to string coefficient of friction: When the strings are really smooth and slide over each other well, then you get increased string "snap back" which applies force to the ball to induce spin. If the strings are very rough (such as Tecnifibre X-1 Biphase), then they will be "locked together" and not slide over each other. You will not gain any additional spin since there is no string snap-back.

And lastly, there's the obvious #3: Technique. Swing path, tip speed, racquet face, acceleration on contact, etc. Those produce spin as well.

The best way to maximize topspin is to have a little of all three things. You want good ball to string friction, low inter-string coefficient of friction, and good technique.

thank you very much for the info

 

[LeeD]

Edges on my 80+ hour used STBite16 are still as sharp as the control racket's, at 3 hours, or less.
The strings are super easy to slide, and always slide back into place without any prompting.

 

[Muppet]

There are two different ways the strings produce spin:

1. Ball to string friction: Textured strings will bite the ball and apply more force to the ball, producing more spin. Smooth strings do apply spin, but they have less ball to string friction. The rougher the string (or more sharp angled), the more friction = more spin.

2. Having a low string to string coefficient of friction: When the strings are really smooth and slide over each other well, then you get increased string "snap back" which applies force to the ball to induce spin. If the strings are very rough (such as Tecnifibre X-1 Biphase), then they will be "locked together" and not slide over each other. You will not gain any additional spin since there is no string snap-back.

And lastly, there's the obvious #3: Technique. Swing path, tip speed, racquet face, acceleration on contact, etc. Those produce spin as well.

The best way to maximize topspin is to have a little of all three things. You want good ball to string friction, low inter-string coefficient of friction, and good technique.

Would you say that a round poly gives more spin for a stroke that drives through the ball? And a shaped poly would impart more spin for a more low to high brushing stroke? Also, would a low COF string benefit more from a driving stroke, where the more forcing impact would displace the strings more? Or is that just as helpful with a shaped poly?

 

[erbs101]

Edges on my 80+ hour used STBite16 are still as sharp as the control racket's, at 3 hours, or less.
The strings are super easy to slide, and always slide back into place without any prompting.

hi,
would say that solinco tour bite's square profile lasts long ? what other shaped strings have you tested ?

what tension did you used ? i've been reading that solinco tour bite isn't arm friendly any truth to that in your experience ?

thanks

 

[LeeD]

I"d say, soft touch shots favor shaped polys.
Hard flatter shots favor smooth polys.
Whichever string slides easier favors the heavy topspin players.

 

[bluegrass_stringer]

Round strings have a better playability duration and play more consistently. My favourite shaped poly is Head Sonic Pro Edge as it does not seem to lose its edges at all (since they are not sharp to begin with).

Which round poly you hit the heaviest spin with depends on you more than anything else. If you hit very big with a lot of racquet head speed, a more low powered poly like Head Hawk or Solinco Outlast will allow you to maximize spin. If you have a more controlled stroke and you need some power from the string to get depth, a more high powered poly like Tourna Black Zone is your best bet.

I've seen some geometric strings like sonic pro edge flatten out and break prematurely. Haven't seen this as much with round strings. But sonic pro edge is an AWESOME string until this happens.

 

[Crisp]

I have found Tourna Black Zone to be great for spin and Power. A top string from an under the radar manafacturer.

 

[SpinToWin]

Would you say that a round poly gives more spin for a stroke that drives through the ball? And a shaped poly would impart more spin for a more low to high brushing stroke? Also, would a low COF string benefit more from a driving stroke, where the more forcing impact would displace the strings more? Or is that just as helpful with a shaped poly?

Shaped strings IME give easier spin on slower strokes. However, very slick strings give the most spin on very fast strokes (pretty much independent of string shape IMO).

 

[SpinToWin]

hi,
how long before heads sonic pro edge's profile became totally round when you tested them out ?

I believe it lasted me around 15 hours... Know that Head Sonic Pro Edge also has one of the best values for string to string friction, so it slides back into place pretty much every time (and has good strings snapback for spin).

 

[erbs101]

I believe it lasted me around 15 hours... Know that Head Sonic Pro Edge also has one of the best values for string to string friction, so it slides back into place pretty much every time (and has good strings snapback for spin).

WOW ! not bad for a shaped string.. how did it play after its profile becomes rounded ?

looks like i need to test head sonic pro edge...

If they tested good looks like i wouldn't be needing my genesis spinX and genesis thunderblast, which will be arriving 2-3 weeks from now..

Any experience on genesis spin X and thunderblast ? I plan to hybrid the thunderblast placed in the cross with head hawk or rpm blast

 

[SpinToWin]

WOW ! not bad for a shaped string.. how did it play after its profile becomes rounded ?

looks like i need to test head sonic pro edge...

If they tested good looks like i wouldn't be needing my genesis spinX and genesis thunderblast, which will be arriving 2-3 weeks from now..

Any experience on genesis spin X and thunderblast ? I plan to hybrid the thunderblast placed in the cross with head hawk or rpm blast

never tested the two strings you mentioned…

Head Sonic Pro Edge isn't just good thanks to its profile, it is a genuinely very good string. It has good power along with nice control, which allows you to play very aggressively, but its best quality is its comfort/touch for such a thick polyester string. If I only had to buy a string for myself I would probably get this string (however, I also string for many people in my club, so I need a large variety of strings, which is why I currently stock up Pro's Pro strings whose cost is not such a large factor). To answer your question, there is minimally less spin when the profile wears off, but the string is still very playable. As with all poly strings, if it does not break, there comes a point where you should cut it out, though the string definitely lasts longer than most.

 

[anubis]

Edges on my 80+ hour used STBite16 are still as sharp as the control racket's, at 3 hours, or less.
The strings are super easy to slide, and always slide back into place without any prompting.

I have to say that I am INCREDIBLY impressed with Tour Bite. I'm using the regular old 16 as well and am really loving the performance. You get really nice power and insane spin.

 

[hoodjem]

I've seen some geometric strings like sonic pro edge flatten out and break prematurely. Haven't seen this as much with round strings. But sonic pro edge is an AWESOME string until this happens.

Does Head make a smaller gauge of Sonic Pro Edge than 16?

 

[SpinToWin]

Does Head make a smaller gauge of Sonic Pro Edge than 16?

unfortunately no

 

[anubis]

Would you say that a round poly gives more spin for a stroke that drives through the ball? And a shaped poly would impart more spin for a more low to high brushing stroke?

No. No shot in tennis truly "drives" through the ball without any lateral or up or down movement. Even if you think that you're swing path is truly horizontal or linear, you still have to take into consideration the fact that the strings themselves are moving laterally against the ball.

Unless you've got a crazy Agassi Radical frame that's a 20x22 string pattern strung with Kevlar at 75 lbs, then sure, I guess those strings aren't moving much.

But if you're using poly, then you're going to get lateral shearing against the ball with or without a linear swing path.

So, because of that, no matter what you'll get more spin with a shaped poly with a very low coefficient of friction value (really smooth).

Don't get me wrong: I get really good spin with Solinco Outlast (smooth). But I get more spin with tour bite.

 

[Muppet]

Would you say that a round poly gives more spin for a stroke that drives through the ball? And a shaped poly would impart more spin for a more low to high brushing stroke? Also, would a low COF string benefit more from a driving stroke, where the more forcing impact would displace the strings more? Or is that just as helpful with a shaped poly?

No. No shot in tennis truly "drives" through the ball without any lateral or up or down movement. Even if you think that you're swing path is truly horizontal or linear, you still have to take into consideration the fact that the strings themselves are moving laterally against the ball.

Unless you've got a crazy Agassi Radical frame that's a 20x22 string pattern strung with Kevlar at 75 lbs, then sure, I guess those strings aren't moving much.

But if you're using poly, then you're going to get lateral shearing against the ball with or without a linear swing path.

So, because of that, no matter what you'll get more spin with a shaped poly with a very low coefficient of friction value (really smooth).

Don't get me wrong: I get really good spin with Solinco Outlast (smooth). But I get more spin with tour bite.

When I say, "a stroke that drives through the ball," and I'm talking about spin, I mean driving through the ball more so than brushing.

My thinking was that shape doesn't contribute as much to spin in a flatter spin shot than in an extreme low to high brushing shot. Also, shape makes a flat shot more unpredictable. So I was wondering if a round, slick string is preferable for a spin stroke more through the ball and a textured string with a higher COF would be preferable for an extreme, low to high, brushing stroke. But I'm hearing that low COF string is best for all spin strokes.

 

[RetroSpin]

I have to say that I am INCREDIBLY impressed with Tour Bite. I'm using the regular old 16 as well and am really loving the performance. You get really nice power and insane spin.

Me too. I use 17. I feel like I can really go after the ball with my PDR+ and keep control.

I think it stays playable for a long time as well, although you can tell there is some loss of control after 12-15 hours of heavy hitting.

 

[LeeD]

RetroSpin....
Is it loss of control due to tension loss? Tension loss in normal in all strings, as they do get tired and the grommet's get squished.
Lots of players confuse "dead" strings with a loss of tension.
Since I embrace the idea of low tensions, starting at 47, now down to maybe 42 or so, it's still full of control and pop.
It's certainly world's livelier than KirshbaumSpikeyShark16 at 38, which is dead dead dead.

 

[SpinToWin]

RetroSpin....
Is it loss of control due to tension loss? Tension loss in normal in all strings, as they do get tired and the grommet's get squished.
Lots of players confuse "dead" strings with a loss of tension.
Since I embrace the idea of low tensions, starting at 47, now down to maybe 42 or so, it's still full of control and pop.
It's certainly world's livelier than KirshbaumSpikeyShark16 at 38, which is dead dead dead.

If you'd asked I'd have told you to string it up at 20 pounds from the get go knowing how dead Spiky Shark and Black Shark are :lol:

 

[LeeD]

Thanks.
I"m more of a learn by experience guy. Had I strung it at 20, I'd probably wonder how it would work string at 27.
Yes, it's very weak hitting. I"m not too sure if it plays any worse for me than my much more powerful rackets, as placement and depth seems to trump pure poiwer and spin in my game.

 

[erbs101]

never tested the two strings you mentioned…

Head Sonic Pro Edge isn't just good thanks to its profile, it is a genuinely very good string. It has good power along with nice control, which allows you to play very aggressively, but its best quality is its comfort/touch for such a thick polyester string. If I only had to buy a string for myself I would probably get this string (however, I also string for many people in my club, so I need a large variety of strings, which is why I currently stock up Pro's Pro strings whose cost is not such a large factor). To answer your question, there is minimally less spin when the profile wears off, but the string is still very playable. As with all poly strings, if it does not break, there comes a point where you should cut it out, though the string definitely lasts longer than most.

Hello,
I just ordered 2 packs of head sonic pro edge from our local distributor, can't wait to test it out... now i have a bunch of strings on my hand hahaha (genesis spinx, genesis thunderblast, head lynx, yonex poly pro 120 and wilson ripspin 16)

thanks for the help and suggestion..

what's your recommended tension for the sonic pro edge for prince rebel 98 (16x20) normally my tension is 52/50

thanks

 

[mawashi]

hi,
would say that solinco tour bite's square profile lasts long ? what other shaped strings have you tested ?

what tension did you used ? i've been reading that solinco tour bite isn't arm friendly any truth to that in your experience ?

thanks

It is stiff and comfort is low but as a performance string, it's up there with the very best. As the edges are very pronounced, they don't really last very long for me especially when using a full bed.

There are two different ways the strings produce spin:

1. Ball to string friction: Textured strings will bite the ball and apply more force to the ball, producing more spin. Smooth strings do apply spin, but they have less ball to string friction. The rougher the string (or more sharp angled), the more friction = more spin.

2. Having a low string to string coefficient of friction: When the strings are really smooth and slide over each other well, then you get increased string "snap back" which applies force to the ball to induce spin. If the strings are very rough (such as Tecnifibre X-1 Biphase), then they will be "locked together" and not slide over each other. You will not gain any additional spin since there is no string snap-back.

And lastly, there's the obvious #3: Technique. Swing path, tip speed, racquet face, acceleration on contact, etc. Those produce spin as well.

The best way to maximize topspin is to have a little of all three things. You want good ball to string friction, low inter-string coefficient of friction, and good technique.

Agree and good technique is the most obvious lol!

I have to say that I am INCREDIBLY impressed with Tour Bite. I'm using the regular old 16 as well and am really loving the performance. You get really nice power and insane spin.

It plays great but doesn't have the best feel imo, I'm still loving how black magic feels and now I'm going to go check out Tourna Black Zone.

 

[bluegrass_stringer]

Hello,
I just ordered 2 packs of head sonic pro edge from our local distributor, can't wait to test it out... now i have a bunch of strings on my hand hahaha (genesis spinx, genesis thunderblast, head lynx, yonex poly pro 120 and wilson ripspin 16)

thanks for the help and suggestion..

what's your recommended tension for the sonic pro edge for prince rebel 98 (16x20) normally my tension is 52/50

thanks

Good call on the SPE string. Another awesome geometric poly is Ytex Quadro Twist. Ranked #1 in terms of spin via RSi mag playtest and 2nd string overall just behind natural gut. It is a great string. Everyone I know who has tried this string, be it full bed or hybrid, is still using it and love it. One of the best strings in terms of value/performance. That being said, the Sonic Pro Edge will do you fine, but in the future if you want to try something new out, give it a shot.

 

[SpinToWin]

Hello,
I just ordered 2 packs of head sonic pro edge from our local distributor, can't wait to test it out... now i have a bunch of strings on my hand hahaha (genesis spinx, genesis thunderblast, head lynx, yonex poly pro 120 and wilson ripspin 16)

thanks for the help and suggestion..

what's your recommended tension for the sonic pro edge for prince rebel 98 (16x20) normally my tension is 52/50

thanks

Cool, I hope you like the string

Which string did you use at that tension? If it helps, SPE is soft and relatively higher powered for a poly string. I personally used SPE in my Head Youtek IG Prestige Pro at 25.5(±0.5)kg (depending on weather/conditions) with great success.

 

[erbs101]

Cool, I hope you like the string

Which string did you use at that tension? If it helps, SPE is soft and relatively higher powered for a poly string. I personally used SPE in my Head Youtek IG Prestige Pro at 25.5(±0.5)kg (depending on weather/conditions) with great success.

Any string, thats my normal starting tension. Right now i have full bed of cyclone tour 17 on my rebel 98 16x20 frame at 52/50. Another one cyclone tour 17 in the main and head hawk 16 cross at 52/50 aswell.

I liked the cyclone tour + head hawk setup though , next time i would run that setup ill bump it up to 55/53.

say, have you playtested head lynx ? if yes how was it ? i'll be getting it aswell same time as head sonic pro edge.

thanks

 

[erbs101]

Good call on the SPE string. Another awesome geometric poly is Ytex Quadro Twist. Ranked #1 in terms of spin via RSi mag playtest and 2nd string overall just behind natural gut. It is a great string. Everyone I know who has tried this string, be it full bed or hybrid, is still using it and love it. One of the best strings in terms of value/performance. That being said, the Sonic Pro Edge will do you fine, but in the future if you want to try something new out, give it a shot.

Thanks for the tip ! I'll keep that in mind, but can't wait to hit with head sonic pro edge.

i'll also have head lynx to test aswell hahaha

 

[SpinToWin]

Any string, thats my normal starting tension. Right now i have full bed of cyclone tour 17 on my rebel 98 16x20 frame at 52/50. Another one cyclone tour 17 in the main and head hawk 16 cross at 52/50 aswell.

I liked the cyclone tour + head hawk setup though , next time i would run that setup ill bump it up to 55/53.

say, have you playtested head lynx ? if yes how was it ? i'll be getting it aswell same time as head sonic pro edge.

thanks

Head Lynx is one of those strings I still have to get/try

I'd string up SPE at your normal tension. Considering that you liked Volkl Cyclone Tour 17 at that tension, you should be fine.

 

[erbs101]

Head Lynx is one of those strings I still have to get/try

I'd string up SPE at your normal tension. Considering that you liked Volkl Cyclone Tour 17 at that tension, you should be fine.

Thanks for your tips and help !

I'll post my feedback on head sonic pro edge once my order arrives.

 

[erbs101]

Head Lynx is one of those strings I still have to get/try

I'd string up SPE at your normal tension. Considering that you liked Volkl Cyclone Tour 17 at that tension, you should be fine.

Hello,
I finally play tested head sonic pro edge, strung it on my prince rebel 98, at (54/52) on a dead weight machine.

Like what you've mentioned it was a great string, control, power, touch, although spin was average, volkl cyclone tour has still alot more spin.

Though during my play test i felt abit of small pain on my elbow and shoulder, but right after the playtest or the day after there was on pain.

played around 6 hours of doubles.

oh.., you mentioned that you prefer having multi in the mains over at crosses, but with that setup your going to break your strings alot faster right ? besides having more spin potential what other benefits do you get in having multi mains ?

comparing my 2 setup right now full bed head sonic pro edge vs rpm blast main tecnifibre xone cross having both the same tension, the hybrid felt more comfortable but i favored the full bed of head sonic pro due to i could control the ball more and have the confidence to just swing away, the hybrid felt "too springy" maybe bec of the low tension ? 54/52 ? is that normal on a hybrid setup ?

thanks

 

[Chotobaka]

Good call on the SPE string. Another awesome geometric poly is Ytex Quadro Twist. Ranked #1 in terms of spin via RSi mag playtest and 2nd string overall just behind natural gut. It is a great string. Everyone I know who has tried this string, be it full bed or hybrid, is still using it and love it. One of the best strings in terms of value/performance. That being said, the Sonic Pro Edge will do you fine, but in the future if you want to try something new out, give it a shot.

Have you tried Square-X yet? Another good YTEX offering.

 

[EasternRocks]

Bluegrass and or erbs, if you guys still frequent the boards and see this message can you give me your thoughts on Sonic Pro Edge vs. Quadro Twist? SPE is my favorite poly right now but I want to know if I should give QT a second try and what I should expect.

 

[men8ifr]

Hello,

Black widow is one of the sharpest strings pentagonal strings i've ever tried and if your stringer isn't experienced enough he could cut himself while handling the string. Too bad after several weeks it looses its shape and becomes rounded.


Thanks

Yonex poly tour spin I find very good for spin and has not lost it's edges - or snap back ability over quite a lot of hours now.

Just string it at low tension for the best effect spin/touch/feel.