String Inventory Suggestions

[ceeecil]

Our local stringer retired last year and I'm thinking about doing more stringing this season. The previous stringer only offered low priced syn gut. I would like to carry a decent selection of string while not tieing up a bunch of $$ in inventory. I'm thinking of stocking sets (less than $10) first, see what is most popular, then maybe buy reels. I expect 75% of customers would be seniors and the rest 3.5 to 4.5 league players.
I would appreciate your thoughts/suggestions on the following:

PSGD 16g
Gosen OG Sheep Micro 16 & 17g
Alpha Viper 17g (step up from basic syn??)
Alpha Gut 2000 16g
Wilson Sensation 16g (From my research, this seems to be popular)
Technifibre Multifeel 16g ???
Gosen Polylon 16g
Topspin Cyberflash 17g

Finally, a local favorite string is Gamma Durablast 15L which I have not been able to find. Does anyone know of a similar string?

Thanks

 

[K. Wilson Moose]

I am a big fan of Alpha Viper MXT. It is definitely a step up from basic syn gut, and better than Gamma TNT, in my opinion. Alpha Gut 2000 is a solid multi at a low price, absolutely one to consider.

 

[Dunlopkid]

Not sure what the prices on these are but maybe: Gamma Live Wire, Bab Conquest, Lux Big Banger ALU Rough

 

[Valjean]

From a performance standpoint, POSG is the happy marriage of PSGD and the Gosen you have listed. Gosen's OG Sheep Micro Super JC is the next step up here.

I wouldn't take the Alpha strings you list; too fragile, like many lower-priced, off-brand products.

Wilson Sensation has been overtaken by later string technology. Babolat's Fibertour, an older string too but with better tension maintenance, is closest in price. Prince's Premier with Softflex is a best buy in the multifilament line. Multifeel is somewhat duplicative overall, but has very good tension maintenance and could double as a hybrid cross string. A firmer multi could be Babolat's Syntronic Brio; the string set is also 44' long, for the larger racquets seniors often prefer. Wilson's NXT is widely reputed and available; you might be pressed to offer it, and it's expensive, too. Of the four versions available, think NXT Max.

You're missing a solid spin string like Babolat's Razor Spin or Prince's Topspin Plus and Topspin 15L with Duraflex.

 

[jj300]

Valjean,
I don't agree with your Alpha strings assessment. The gut 2000 is a great string especially at its price point. The viper mxt is even better. I used it several times and have it strung in my redondos now. It holds up great, has great pop and bite and just to make it that much nicer, it has a solid sound at impact. It's also quite durable, and at its price I don't see many competitors. No matter what tension the string feels super solid and thats what I like. I would consider both of them a good pick

 

[ssjkyle31]

You can't go wrong with chosing PSGD 16 & 17 A couple one or two polys like Gama Durablast and a multifiber like NXT. Just keep your stock simple and just special order the rest. I think your players will know what you keep in stock and know what to order from places like TW (and you charge labor). The average player don't care and they look at price. It only the TW board members who care about the brand, type and gauge of string.

 

[LoveThisGame]

ceeecil,

You mentioned Gamma DuraBlast 15L. That string is no longer offered. Among polys, it had the greatest coil memory and felt like wire. It had to be durable! Not a joyable memory!

Tell me if you want me to burrow in the closet to see if I still have a few sets.

 

[Valjean]

Valjean,
I don't agree with your Alpha strings assessment. The gut 2000 is a great string especially at its price point. The viper mxt is even better. I used it several times and have it strung in my redondos now. It holds up great, has great pop and bite and just to make it that much nicer, it has a solid sound at impact. It's also quite durable, and at its price I don't see many competitors. No matter what tension the string feels super solid and thats what I like. I would consider both of them a good pick

Well, here is the 1997 Viper review, then: http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Reviews/AVMXT16/AVMXT16Review.html

The conclusion contains the following: "Viper MXT 16 provides a predictable, comfortable response and adequate power, but does not perform with any discernable 'wow' factor to separate it from other synthetic gut strings. A good workhorse but no stallion...."

While numerous strings could fit this description, I wouldn't want any of them, too.

In addition, according to USRSA lab tests both Viper and Alpha Gut 2000 evidence a higher rate of tension loss than many other strings in the same category, a value that, for nylon strings anyhow, says something about how long they can last. Indeed, this higher-rate-of-tension-loss finding is true for most of Alpha's strings. Viper and Gut 2000 were both introduced 10+ years back, which can explain a lot.

 

[ceeecil]

LoveThisGame

Thank you
Even though I'm sure I'll regret it, if you have any "wire string" to spare I'm sure I can use it. ceeecil59@yahoo.com

Valjean
I'm from the mountains of NC, if you are ever in the area look me up.


Thanks to all for the info. Very helpful

 

[K. Wilson Moose]

Well, here is the 1997 Viper review, then: http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Reviews/AVMXT16/AVMXT16Review.html

The conclusion contains the following: "Viper MXT 16 provides a predictable, comfortable response and adequate power, but does not perform with any discernable 'wow' factor to separate it from other synthetic gut strings. A good workhorse but no stallion...."

While numerous strings could fit this description, I wouldn't want any of them, too.

In addition, according to USRSA lab tests both Viper and Alpha Gut 2000 evidence a higher rate of tension loss than many other strings in the same category, a value that, for nylon strings anyhow, says something about how long they can last. Indeed, this higher-rate-of-tension-loss finding is true for most of Alpha's strings. Viper and Gut 2000 were both introduced 10+ years back, which can explain a lot.

Valjean, we know what the review states. However, we have both based our suggestions on personal reviews. Have you played with either of these strings? Almost everyone that I have switched to Viper MXT loves it, and it is hard to beat Alpha Gut 2000 for the price.

 

[Valjean]

The implication in this is too rude to deserve comment; just who do you think you ARE here?

 

[K. Wilson Moose]

The implication in this is too rude to deserve comment; just who do you think you ARE here?

The question was not meant to be rude. All I am saying is that 2 out of 3 who have commented on Alpha strings in this thread like them. Also, I have no idea if you have ever hit with them. That is not rude. As for who I am, I am a user of Alpha strings. Now, asking just who do you think you ARE here is very rude.

 

[Valjean]

You don't have to have an "idea" if I hit with anything. And it's very much off the point of the discussion. When you have an issue with the USRSA's test procedure or results, tell THEM. And you don't. There are people in here with a reputation for fighting; aren't you one? We could certainly list them for taking the very same approach you have, when it's convenient to. Climbing on someone else's back? I doubt you've ever hit with those Alpha strings yourself.

Another feature of your approach is the intent to hijack the discussion, turn it around; see what the OP says, it's his thread, too. Or isn't that the test you desire to have?

TW performs a service when it lists, and chooses to, USRSA string playtests. They're there, and you don't have much to say about them. I'd say they're known of to about the same extent as the Learning Center is, and it's been frequently linked to as well.

 

[Nuke]

ceeecil, I'd suggest you see what strings the local big box stores in your area are selling, then offer mostly those same brands. Finding the best strings to offer may not be best for business if your customers aren't familiar with them. If your expected clientele will be mostly seniors, they will want the familiar brands they've used for years, whether or not you can get them something better.

 

[K. Wilson Moose]

You don't have to have an "idea" if I hit with anything. And it's very much off the point of the discussion. When you have an issue with the USRSA's test procedure or results, tell THEM. And you don't. There are people in here with a reputation for fighting; aren't you one? We could certainly list them for taking the very same approach you have, when it's convenient to. Climbing on someone else's back? I doubt you've ever hit with those Alpha strings yourself.

Another feature of your approach is the intent to hijack the discussion, turn it around; see what the OP says, it's his thread, too. Or isn't that the test you desire to have?

TW performs a service when it lists, and chooses to, USRSA string playtests. They're there, and you don't have much to say about them. I'd say they're known of to about the same extent as the Learning Center is, and it's been frequently linked to as well.

Turning the thread around, fighting, what are you talking about? I do play with Alpha strings and like them, and I am well aware of the service that TW provides. Don't aim your pissy attitude at me!

 

[John C]

ceeecil,
I'm doing the same thing at my club and the player profile is exactly the same. You're not from So. CA are you? Maybe were doing the same thing at the same place.

Anyway, I've bought a reel of Gosen OG Micro (TW) for the cost conscious, several sets of PSGD for the image conscious and have some sets of Multi Feel, NRG (my personal fav.)and NXT plus some freebies from the USRSA.

It's hard finding a good multi for $10 so I'm sticking with what I know right now. I'm finding most of my seniors and 3.5 - 4.5 players aren't *string* people. They probably prefer a name they recognize like Wilson, Prince, Babolat but defer to what I have on hand or what I think which can be good or bad. Their current strings vary all over at the lower end of the scale from Wilson Extreme (one guys and died in the wool fan) to Prodigy or Big Banger. Hard to find a one string fits all senario here.

I'm on the search for a good multi right now but will probably stick with some variation of NXT till I find something better. NXT is a little to firm for me, but (probably a good allarounder) so I use the NRG family (NRG2/18g or BiPhase).

Anyway, let me know how it goes, maybe we can learn something from each other.

 

[Masamusou]

Well, here is the 1997 Viper review, then: http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Reviews/AVMXT16/AVMXT16Review.html

The conclusion contains the following: "Viper MXT 16 provides a predictable, comfortable response and adequate power, but does not perform with any discernable 'wow' factor to separate it from other synthetic gut strings. A good workhorse but no stallion...."

You can read all the reviews you want and in truth, it doesn't amount to anything particularly useful. Babolat VS Gut is still considered the gold standard of gut as far as I am aware of and is still considered the best, but I prefer BDE. I've read all the reviews and find that they are useful for nothing more than reading material. Different people like different strings. I personally like Viper, Sphere, and Gut 2000 (and yes, I do actually use them). Doesn't mean they are right for everybody, but they work for me. Tension loss is a non-issue for me and I snap all 3 of these before any noticeable drop in playability.

Also, I don't agree with your use of the USRSA tension loss data. That's in a lab setting of one single length of stretch under certain conditions. You should know as well as anyone that has read that particular article that it does not accurately mimic the kind of situations that a string would go through in a normal stringjob. Not saying you can't use the data, just keep it in perspective and don't act like it's the answer to any and all questions concerning strings. If you actually look at some of that data, I believe it has strings like Stamina as softer than something like NRG2. Just remember that it is a lab situation and don't pretend it says anything more than it actually does.

 

[K. Wilson Moose]

I personally like Viper, Sphere, and Gut 2000 (and yes, I do actually use them). Doesn't mean they are right for everybody, but they work for me. Tension loss is a non-issue for me and I snap all 3 of these before any noticeable drop in playability.

Yeah, the Alpha Sphere is a really nice multi. Currently have a set in an Estusa Power Beam, and it plays exceptionally well. Recently had a price drop which makes it even more appealing.

 

[NoBadMojo]

Our local stringer retired last year and I'm thinking about doing more stringing this season. The previous stringer only offered low priced syn gut. I would like to carry a decent selection of string while not tieing up a bunch of $$ in inventory. I'm thinking of stocking sets (less than $10) first, see what is most popular, then maybe buy reels. I expect 75% of customers would be seniors and the rest 3.5 to 4.5 league players.
I would appreciate your thoughts/suggestions on the following:

PSGD 16g
Gosen OG Sheep Micro 16 & 17g
Alpha Viper 17g (step up from basic syn??)
Alpha Gut 2000 16g
Wilson Sensation 16g (From my research, this seems to be popular)
Technifibre Multifeel 16g ???
Gosen Polylon 16g
Topspin Cyberflash 17g

Finally, a local favorite string is Gamma Durablast 15L which I have not been able to find. Does anyone know of a similar string?

Thanks

I think you are on the right track here as it is good to keep your selection short. One thing I would do is stock the inexpensive syn gut the other stringer carried as you dont want to totally reinvent the wheel and you will surely get customers happy with what they had and not wanting to change. Good idea to not bother w. reels at first. also, string choices seem to be pretty regionalized or localized...if you can have someone pick the brain of a volume stringer in your area on your behalf, maybe you can find out what they are selling. I assume you will also offer to string for those providing their own string
-PSD Duraflex is always a good choice as that seems to be popular everywhere and is a good performer for the money
-The Gosen is a good complement for someone wanting something cheap and softer and more springy than the Duraflex and you can hybrid it with poly
-I too would avoid the Alpha Gut2000, as that string just doesnt play well for very long for most.
-Sensation seems to be a good choice..a little more playability and not expensive
-You may wish to consider a couple sets of one higher end multi
-Poly i cant help you with

so i would limit it to 5 strings...
-whatever the guy was selling before
-psg duraflex
-gosen (unless it is close to what the guy was selling before)
-one poly (please make it one of the more comfortable ones)
-a couple sets of a good quality multi

 

[Valjean]

You can read all the reviews you want and in truth, it doesn't amount to anything particularly useful. Babolat VS Gut is still considered the gold standard of gut as far as I am aware of and is still considered the best, but I prefer BDE. I've read all the reviews and find that they are useful for nothing more than reading material. Different people like different strings. I personally like Viper, Sphere, and Gut 2000 (and yes, I do actually use them). Doesn't mean they are right for everybody, but they work for me. Tension loss is a non-issue for me and I snap all 3 of these before any noticeable drop in playability.

Also, I don't agree with your use of the USRSA tension loss data. That's in a lab setting of one single length of stretch under certain conditions. You should know as well as anyone that has read that particular article that it does not accurately mimic the kind of situations that a string would go through in a normal stringjob. Not saying you can't use the data, just keep it in perspective and don't act like it's the answer to any and all questions concerning strings. If you actually look at some of that data, I believe it has strings like Stamina as softer than something like NRG2. Just remember that it is a lab situation and don't pretend it says anything more than it actually does.

Possibly, just possibly, you'd like to read through what you've responded to, and before you do, too. Nothing, absolutely nothing, you've said either touches or responds in any way to mine, which is not an argument for suppressing anyone else's previous, and evidently frequently quite precious, opinion. The issue here, clearly, is whether I or anyone else can bring the USRSA data or string playtest reviews in here in support of an opinion I've arrived at and not be subject to some kind of cheap shot because they're cited. I do not take kindly to what you've just said, it's a deliberate attempt to smear me and anyone who takes you on.

Stay off-topic, why don't you both..