This is fascinating, the notion that the racquet is alive is interesting. 1st off, just that the title Franken POG might not be quite accurate is funny...its undead
2nd i think i see what you mean but its positive for me. Taking the racket out of the equation is one less variable that i have to worry about and things are more consistent. The psychological effects for me are huge and it feels like i am just better with that racket, and can focus on the strings.
Also i am coming from extreme tensions where there would be a solid pop like the pros. With lower tensions i miss that and having the racquet damped helps give me more of that feeling.
Sweetspot? What is that? Actually i am betting with all the weight at the handle the sweet spot is so low that I probably rarely hit it. It IS subjective. I dont need a spot on the racquet that has extra power! Control is what I need the most. Power is way down on the list. So in a weird way, a small sweetspot is good for shroud. The racquet is alive in that it is powerful due to the weight. That is something i think you are not benefitting from. That racket with the right balance and weight is plenty alive in terms of power...its a caged beast really
Its a 98, but you might want to try the Prince White racket. Big sweet spot and very lively.