Tennis Warehouse Playtest: Ytex Square X 16L Playtest

[TW Staff]

Attention Talk Tennis Members:

This thread is for the Ytex Square X 16L playtest

The sign-up period for this playtest is over.

** Post a full review by Friday October 10 to remain in good standing for all the upcoming playtests**

Hybrids permitted

Include the following in your review:

If hybrid, list the string & gauge paired with Square X along with which string was in mains/crosses.
Tension(s) used for playtest
Regular string set up
Racquet brand and model used for test
Power of test string
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)
Spin
Comfort
Durability
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time)
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
Compare to the string you use most often
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?)
List any additional thoughts (optional)

 

[Ennismt]

Got selected for this playtest and am very excited about it. I've been looking/hoping for a string that plays softer than Tour Bite but gives similar spin. I hoped that TB Soft would be the one but it was too soft. Tried different gauges but didn't find what I was looking for. Tried different brands of textured strings and never got the feel I was looking for.

Currently use Lux ALU Rough but I am hoping for some extra spin along with the good pop and hopefully not get the plastic feel i get from a lot of mid priced spin strings.

Yep, you guessed it...I am looking for the perfect string. Ytex square X?

 

[Chotobaka]

I've been playing Square X for a couple of months now and strongly recommend you use it in a full bed. No need to hybrid this string to have comfort and good ball pocketing. Lots of spin and also ample feel for a poly. I have found tension maintenance to very good, as well.

 

[mikeler]

I've been playing Square X for a couple of months now and strongly recommend you use it in a full bed. No need to hybrid this string to have comfort and good ball pocketing. Lots of spin and also ample feel for a poly. I have found tension maintenance to very good, as well.

Sounds promising.

 

[Ennismt]

I've been playing Square X for a couple of months now and strongly recommend you use it in a full bed. No need to hybrid this string to have comfort and good ball pocketing. Lots of spin and also ample feel for a poly. I have found tension maintenance to very good, as well.

I usually string at 51 lbs. What would you suggest for square x? The review for quadro twist (seems very similar to square x) suggested going 2-3 lbs higher than mid powered polys.

 

[Chotobaka]

I usually string at 51 lbs. What would you suggest for square x? The review for quadro twist (seems very similar to square x) suggested going 2-3 lbs higher than mid powered polys.

I've been stringing it at normal tensions. There is nothing about this string that makes me want to adjust tension either higher or lower.

This string has a very square profile that is especially noticeable when cutting it out after use.

 

[rob97ag]

Would be interesting to hear on how this compares to the Quadro Twist if any of the play testers have also tried this on.

 

[Ennismt]

Would be interesting to hear on how this compares to the Quadro Twist if any of the play testers have also tried this on.

I agree. I have not tried Quadro Twist though. Ytex also has a triangular poly with the same composition as Square X and Quadro twist...interesting.

I have a subjective bias against twisted strings. I think the twisting increases the likelihood that a two flat surfaces don't meet each other and that the friction increases pretty rapidly with play. You still get the string to ball friction but lose the snapback. An untested hyposthesis as far as I know.

I think, but wonder if I am right, that with square and maybe triangular strings that you get the ball to string friction and keep the string to string friction low, longer.

Since a lot of this may be mental, I hope no one has proven or will prove my hypothesis wrong or I'll never hit spin well again with shaped, non-twisted strings...

Anyways, I hit great spin with Tour Bite but did not like the stiffness. I hope this square string gives me the spin and the comfort. We'll see.

 

[mikeler]

Would be interesting to hear on how this compares to the Quadro Twist if any of the play testers have also tried this on.

I played with Quadro Twist recently and will make a comparison in my review.

 

[purple-n-gold]

Square string arrived today and just finished the install @ 45lbs full job. No problem to string, much softer than the Lux Alu I strung recently. Definitely appears "higher end" compared to the Cyclone and Tour status I've used this summer. Has a nice glossy sheen to it, will let it settle and hopefully give it a hit this weekend.

 

[mikeler]

Received mine yesterday as well. Plan to string it up today or tomorrow. Looks a lot like their Pro Tour string in the package.

 

[Ennismt]

I will get mine today. Apparently there was insufficient postage so I have to go to the post office and pick it up. Hope to string it up today or tomorrow.

 

[dicktracey]

Tension(s) used for playtest
15 pounds

Regular string set up
Head MicroGEL Radical Oversize + Pro’s Pro’s Blackout 1.28 @ 15 pounds
APD + RPM Blast 16g @ 15 pounds

Racquet brand and model used for test
Head MicroGEL Radical Oversize

Power of test string
Good. Faster and more gears compared to Blackout.
I feel some people will think that this string is slow. But it has so much control and gears, which allows you to hit harder. Not “dead control” but “potential/gears control.” Kevlar and Spiky Shark = dead control/no gears

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)
Very crispy and stable, imagine a 15g version of RPM Blast with handling like a 16g or 17g. NOT dead or muted at all. Lots of feedback and response.

Spin
About the same as Blackout, but Square X has more spin control (you feel more confident when spinning).

Comfort (off-center shock?)
GREAT!!!

Durability
Good. Day 1, some slight creases after playing 4 long sets. About the same as RPM blast 16g. Blackout notches deep the first day. Day 2, played one full set and a half, slight notches covering the whole racket. (see picture below) This is normal, about the same as RPM blast 16g. Square X is way more durable than RPM 17g and Blackout 16g.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time)
Didn’t notice a change in play over the 4 long sets I played. As I was stringing, Square X felt like a powerful tank, very stiff but full of energy at the same time(lots of flick backs and whip lashing while stringing). It appears to be a powerful tank on the court as well. Day 2, nothing changed. Good playability duration.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
GREAT!!! The string feels massive and dense, so it’s EASY to counter heavy shots with another heavy shot. You can take big swings, without worrying about stability.

Compare to the string you use most often
Comparing Blackout to Square. Square X feels better and is more stable. Looks like a premium string and plays like a premium string. Blackout looks and feels like cheap plastic, but plays good for the price.
There is a big difference when stringing. Stringing Blackout, is like stringing butter, very soft, melts in your hands. RPM Blast, you get some whip lashing. Square X, you get massive whip lashing, like stringing a volatile substance, full of energy.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?)
It’s a stiff string, that plays soft and lively. Therefore, I think this string would work at all tensions. However, it plays excellent at low tension. The stiffness/tankness will give you stability and control at low tension, and it’s very lively and responsive.

List any additional thoughts
Day 1: Played for almost 3 hours against a 4.5, took 3 full sets and lost 1. Never played so well against him before. Don’t want to give Square X all the credit, but it definitely didn’t hinder my performance.
DAY 2: Played the same 4.5 that normally beats me. A full set with Square, and another full set with Blackout. I won both sets. Then I played half a set with each, and lost that set. My thoughts have not changed, Square X is overall a better string compared to Blackout, more power, stability, and control. My opponent tried both, and preferred Square X as well. With Square X, you can take a huge crack at the ball, and know it's going in. With Blackout, you're not sure what's going to happen.

This string suits my “spin everything game,” very well. The dwell, response, and feeling are superb. The mass and control is also beautiful, therefore flat hitters may like this string too(just string higher). Imagine if there was a premium 15g version of RPM Blast, and you have Square X.

Day 2 photos:

 

[maxhunter]

How in the world do you hit with a string at 15lbs

 

[idono1301]

Just got my string set today! Will be stringing it up today and testing throughout the week!

How in the world do you hit with a string at 15lbs

There's actually a thread somewhere here about super low tensions. Can't say I've tried it myself. It did get me to go down to my new usual of 44lbs down from 58lbs before.

 

[tlm]

I have been using the quadrotwist for a few days now and it seems pretty good. Nice feel very good spin and good control,waiting for the square x to come in. I am anxious to compare it to the quadrotwist, will give a comparison once the square x comes in.

 

[mikeler]

I cut my sets of Square X. It definitely feels softer than the Pro Tour that it looks like in the packaging.

It's interesting that it says the strings are made in England. LTec anyone?

 

[arche3]

The string looks like a black ltec 4s.

 

[Ennismt]

I cut my sets of Square X. It definitely feels softer than the Pro Tour that it looks like in the packaging.

It's interesting that it says the strings are made in England. LTec anyone?

How did the texture compare between Square X to Quadro Twist? I strung up Square X a couple days ago and played the first time with it yesterday. I thought the texture was less than Tour Bite, and pretty subtle.

 

[dicktracey]

Update, Day 3: Nothing changed, my thoughts are still the same. However, I would like to add something. Blackout is slower, less dense, has less gears/tops out, because of this, it's easier to hit the lines, hit holes and openings on the court. Square X, has the mass, power, and stability that makes it easier to overpower the opponent, blast them off the court. Put it simply, Blackout is a composite bow, and Square X is a shotgun. Depending on the situation, control changes. Dealing with heavy balls, Square X has the control. If you want to hit a small hole, Blackout has the control.

 

[mikeler]

How did the texture compare between Square X to Quadro Twist? I strung up Square X a couple days ago and played the first time with it yesterday. I thought the texture was less than Tour Bite, and pretty subtle.

I strung it up last night and it does seem like the texture is subtle.

 

[idono1301]

Tension(s) used for playtest
44 pounds

Regular string set up
Babolat Pure Storm Tour x2: Pro’s Pro Nano Vendetta 44lbs
2014 Wilson Pro Staff 90: Pro’s Pro Nano Vendetta 44lbs

Racquet brand and model used for test
2014 Wilson Pro Staff 90

Power of test string
Decent power. I would rank it a little more than Nano Vendetta. It was much easier to get the shots deeper. It was definitely better when put into a defensive position and blocking.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)
The string felt very crisp. This and the spin potential were my two favorite characteristics of this string. It felt like the strings gave a nice snap to the ball, while still being controlled.

Spin
I felt that this string was great in the spin department! It was a magnitude higher than nano vendetta. I, and my hitting partner, could see a substantial change in my shot shape on groundstrokes. It was definitely a parabola with a higher curvature. However, it wasn’t luxilon levels of spin.

Comfort (off-center shock?)
This string had very good comfort. It was more stiff than my usual string, but I appreciated the feel that provided. My feelings on comfort should be taken with a grain of salt, as I think that Alu feels comfortable even after 20 hours or so (initially strung at 58lbs).

Durability
This string seemed to be fairly durable, as most polys are. As of the end of this playtest, I got 10 hours out of it. However, it has become a bit too loose for my taste. In summary, it will last longer than the playability period.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time)
During the first day, I didn’t notice a large drop in playability. However, it would have been hard to notice since I was also getting used to the string. After stringing, rackettune showed 47.5lbs. After the first day, 45.1lbs, a 5% loss. second day: 43.8lbs. It is much more durable than pro's pro strings.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
This string provided a good amount of control. I could get enough spin on the ball to keep it in the court. I did have a few problems on the first day, in that occasionally a shot would just dive into the net. With my usual setup, I’m not afraid to go for a winner, but with this, I initially had a slight doubt in the back of my mind.

However, for a rally ball, it was a great string and I felt tuned in to keep the rally going.

Compare to the string you use most often
As I describe in the additional thoughts section, this string was a pain in the butt to string. I would rank it just above Luxilon Alu Power in terms of stringing difficulty.

Otherwise, the string plays very well. I enjoyed rallying with the string, but needed a lot of time to get used to what the ball would do when I aimed for a flat winner.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?)

If I get to try this string again, I may increase the tension a bit to hopefully help with the predictability, as mentioned above. I will say that the string got more predictable through the hours of play.

List any additional thoughts
Stringing thoughts:
This string was an absolute pain to install. It had a crazy amount of coil memory and was very stiff, which made it difficult to weave. Be sure to watch the string while pulling it through; as a stiff string it is likely to kink if one isn’t careful.

I’d also like to note that the “square” profile is not very pronounced at all. In a string such as Tourna Big Hitter Black 7, the ridges are very sharp and defined. Not so in this case. However, performance was good as seen above.

All in all, it is a good string, but I’m not so sure that it is worth it at the current price point. I think if it was around the $10 mark, then it would be an amazing value. At above $12, there are other alternatives to consider such as the Tourna strings, Yonex Poly Tour Pro, and Solinco Tour Bite. In this strings defense, it definitely fits into it’s own niche and is worth a try for the 4.0+ player!

Thank you to Tennis Warehouse and Ytex for the opportunity to try this string and provide feedback!

Admin: please let me know if I need to elaborate on anything and I'll be happy to do so. I hope this review was a good enough quality

Edit: Added data for day 2

 

[mikeler]

I played 2 sets of singles tonight with it. It has a nice "thwack" sensation when you hit the sweet spot. I hit more winners tonight than I have in awhile. All in all, a great first outing with it.

 

[McLovin]

It has a nice "thwack" sensation when you hit the sweet spot.

Yes, I noticed that as well, however, I'm finding it to not have as much power as others have stated, at least compared to my normal setup of MSV Focus Hex Soft.

I'm hitting again this afternoon & will give it another try. Maybe I strung it too tight, but I intentionally did it the same as normal clay setup (Focus Hex mains, Pacific PolyForce crosses, both @ 48lbs).

Will take final tension readings after today & writeup over the weekend.

 

[mikeler]

Yes, I noticed that as well, however, I'm finding it to not have as much power as others have stated, at least compared to my normal setup of MSV Focus Hex Soft.

I'm hitting again this afternoon & will give it another try. Maybe I strung it too tight, but I intentionally did it the same as normal clay setup (Focus Hex mains, Pacific PolyForce crosses, both @ 48lbs).

Will take final tension readings after today & writeup over the weekend.

I've never used MSV polys so I can't compare. I got in 4 games last night before the summer thunderstorms rolled in. I'm really digging this string.

 

[jrxl]

Ytex Square X 16L

Tension(s) used for playtest 50lbs
Regular string set up Pro's Pro Hexaspin Twist 1.30mm @ 50lbs
Racquet brand and model used for test Prince 100T ESP
Power of test string A little higher than I am used to. It is possible that this was due to the thinner string gauge.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?) Pingy?
Spin Average for a poly. (This will be a theme)
Comfort Average for a poly.
Durability I got 4 hours out of this one before breaking it right in the sweetspot. I typically get 8-10 hours out of my usual setup. The thin gauge certainly had something do with it, but I can't help but think I should have got another hour or so out of a 16L.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time) Fairly consistent, but again I only got 4 hours out of it.
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) Average/slightly above average for a poly. Power was a tad high, but it was easy to adjust to. Touch shots were decent, no complaints.
Compare to the string you use most often Less spin, less durability.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?) Nope, tension seemed fine to me.
List any additional thoughts (optional) The squarish profile is really slight... I was expecting/hoping for a square profile with harder edges for a little bite. Otherwise, I felt the string was a perfectly average poly. I would give a larger gauge a shot... but I highly doubt it would replace my current string. I have no idea what the retail price would be, but this seemed like a budget string to me.

 

[Micalzon]

Hit with this a little last night and was pleasantly surprised. I have a match this afternoon and a few more sessions over the weekend. So far so good, though.

 

[mikeler]

Ytex Square X 16L Playtest

Tension(s) used for playtest
60 pounds on a lockout

Regular string set up
Genesis Typhoon 16L full bed

Racquet brand and model used for test
Prince Tour 100T ESP (16x16)

Power of test string
I thought the power level was good. It seemed like I was getting a few more aces than normal on serve. When I wanted to crank up my ground strokes, I felt there was ample power.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)
I guess crisp but this has a very unique feel which I really liked. It seemed to have more ball pocketing than I can remember from any other poly. Touch shots were pretty nice with this string.

Spin
About average for a poly. The string gives you confidence to go for your shots, so I was hitting the ball flatter than with some other strings.

Comfort
I thought this was one of the more comfortable polys I've tried.

Durability
This is the Achilles Heel of the string for me. I only got about 3.5 sets of singles and 3 sets of doubles before it snapped.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time)
It stayed about the same through the playtest.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
It had a very predicable trajectory. Depth control was a breeze unless I was out of position or got tentative. This is a very nice offering that I think would excel for all swing speeds.

Compare to the string you use most often
I liked this string perhaps a little better than my current favorite but the durability is not good enough for me.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?)
Tension was just right. RacquetTune had the initial reading as 61 pounds. I only got 1 other reading after my first 2 sets of singles and it had dropped to 50 pounds (18.1% tension loss).

List any additional thoughts (optional)
If they come out with a thicker gauge of this string, I'll definitely test it out. Thanks to TW and Ytex for letting me participate in the playtest.

 

[Ennismt]

YTEX SQUARE-X playtest

Tension(s) used for playtest: 54 lbs on a lockout.

Regular string set up: Luxilon BB ALU Power Rough

Racquet brand and model used for test: Babolat Pure Strike 16x19 98”

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Crisp yet comfortable with good ball grab/pocketing

Spin: Above average for a poly.

Comfort: Comfortable in the sweet spot. Nice ball pocketing and grab. Noticeably less comfortable outside of the sweetspot.

Durability: I don’t break poly strings before I cut them out, so I am not a good judge.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time):
The string kept its spin qualities throughout the playtest of about 10 hours and two weeks. Control was lacking when Racquet tune readings were at 42 lbs (total of 16% tension loss). I had to focus on using spin to control my shots. Fortunately, there was plenty of spin left in the string, but this did make my game pretty one-dimensional. It is interesting how long this string stayed at 42 lbs. This is very good tension maintenance; however it was at a tension that was too low for me and for about half the total play time.

Racquet tune readings were as follows:
13 Sep – off the stringer: 50 lbs
14 Sep – before play: 48 lbs
14 Sep – after 1.5 hrs moderate hitting: 46 lbs
16 Sep – after 2 hrs hard hitting: 45 lbs
18 Sep – before play: 43 lbs
18 Sep – after 1.5 hrs hard hitting: 42 lbs
20 Sep – before play: 42 lbs
20 Sep – after 1.5 hrs light hitting: 42 lbs
21 Sep – after 3 hrs hard hitting: 42 lbs
23 Sep – before play: 42 lbs
23 Sep – after 1 hr light hitting: 42 lbs


Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Trajectory and depth were predictable. After tension dropped to 42-43 lbs, it became pretty predictable that a lot of my shots were going consistently long without accentuating topspin on ground strokes and the serve. The 42-43 lbs tension may suit another player just fine, but for me it was too loose.

Slice was above average. Topspin on groundstrokes was very good. Flat shots became difficult as tension dropped. Volleys were crisp and had good punch. Very good spin on kick and slice serves. There was also a lack of touch compared to what I am used to, but it was still good for a poly. My dropshots and short angle slices were harder to execute because the string did not respond as well as I am used to at slower swing speeds.

Compare to the string you use most often: A little less spin, slightly less power, longer playability duration, less touch and control.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): If I could get the tension to stabilize at about 45+ lbs instead of 42 lbs then this playtest might be a lot more positive. So, I’d experiment with stringing it at 57 lbs and letting it stabilize for about a week before hitting. Hopefully the first hit would be in the low 50’s.

List any additional thoughts (optional): This string held its spin characteristics for the whole time. I was thinking the subtle shape would produce only average spin. I was wrong. This string had spin qualities of a shaped string, albeit not like a Tour Bite. Personally, I like the amount spin it produced, I would not want more. Adjusting tension would likely address the control issue and its tension maintenance would allow for this string to be used for a longer period than most other polys.

I would have trouble using this string in a full bed because of the lack of touch compared to what I am used to. Maybe using a more powerful string in the crosses would up the responsiveness at lower swing speeds and make it more forgiving outside the sweet spot. I would suggest others try this in a full bed first since it is a poly with many above average characteristics compared to other polys. It may be just what you are looking for.

 

[tennis007]

Ytex Square X 16L Playtest

Tension used for playtest: Strung at 42 lbs. with Gamma 6004/Wise 2086 constant pull.
Regular string setup: Mains: Signum Pro Firestorm 17g x crosses: Yonex Poly Tour Pro 17 120 Yellow.
Racquet brand and model used for test: Head Youtek IG Prestige MidPlus Ltd Ed.- 98
Power of test string: Low to medium power allowing me to swing thru the ball freely.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Crisp but still comfortable.
Spin: Spin generation excellent. I was able to generate more spin with Ytex than with my regular string setup.
Comfort: Comfort was decent.
Durability: Average. String is holding up well including tension.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): Durability was good. I got to play about 4-6 hours, but ended up cutting it out, since I was not getting sufficient amount power compare to my regular setup.
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Control was excellent, allowing me to direct the ball in targeted direction.
Compare to the string you use most often: Ytex string provides excellent control and decent comfort. I do feel that my string setup provides better comfort and slightly more power. This is necessary for me, since I use a racquet with dense string pattern and is low power.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): I would recommend dropping tension to 40 lbs. to allow for more power.

Overall I felt that this is a very good string. I will purchase a couple of more sets to try to mix with Signum Pro Firestorm.

 

[joshthefisher]

I've never used MSV polys so I can't compare. I got in 4 games last night before the summer thunderstorms rolled in. I'm really digging this string.

What about compareing to b5e? I was a long time msv fh 17L until I tried your recommendation of b5e 17 which seems to be a bit better to me. Actually I'm using your full bed recommendation with genesis tb.
Thanks.

 

[mikeler]

What about compareing to b5e? I was a long time msv fh 17L until I tried your recommendation of b5e 17 which seems to be a bit better to me. Actually I'm using your full bed recommendation with genesis tb.
Thanks.

More powerful than B5E and a little less spin.

 

[maxhunter]

Tension(s) used for playtest- 54 lbs
Regular string set up- don't really have one, usually any shaped string somewhere between 50 and 55 lbs, other racket was strung with big hitter blue rough however.
Racquet brand and model used for test- Wilson blade 98 16x19
Power of test string- medium to low power
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)- crisp yet slightly muted and comfortable
Spin-good spin, more than most round strings but no quite as much as BHBR
Comfort- very comfortable, had no problems, could string it several lbs tighter and still be very comfortable
Durability- tension loss seemed minimal but i dont have a anything to measure the tension with. little to no notching.
Playability Duration- its been about a week and I've seen almost no differences to the first time hitting it.
Control- very good control, i knew where my shots were going every time. very predictable and consistent. not as much as volkl cyclone though.
Compare to the string you use most often- Compared to BHBR it had slightly less spin and felt a little muted after just hitting with BHBR. also had a little more control than BHBR.
Tension recommendations- after hitting it i think i would string it at around 55-56 lbs.

 

[tlm]

I think I like the quadro twist better than the square x, but will give the square x another try. I have tried both at 70 lbs. and they both play good.

I know some will think that 70 is crazy high but I use all poly string at a minimum of 65 lbs, just my preference and they play fine at high tensions.

As far as the square x goes it like the quadro twist has great comfort for a poly string. Spin is good, with good power and control is okay but to me it was a little to powerful. But that is coming from my regular set up of kevlar mains with poly x's.

I will try it again but thought the quadro has better control than the square x does.

 

[idono1301]

I think I like the quadro twist better than the square x, but will give the square x another try. I have tried both at 70 lbs. and they both play good.

I know some will think that 70 is crazy high but I use all poly string at a minimum of 65 lbs, just my preference and they play fine at high tensions.

As far as the square x goes it like the quadro twist has great comfort for a poly string. Spin is good, with good power and control is okay but to me it was a little to powerful. But that is coming from my regular set up of kevlar mains with poly x's.

I will try it again but thought the quadro has better control than the square x does.

Yikes, that does sound really high. However, I'm glad it works for you and hope you don't have any issues because of that in the future.

Edit: I guess from a materials standpoint, I don't see poly retaining much of the characteristics that makes it "poly" after being stretched out that much.

 

[tlm]

Yikes, that does sound really high. However, I'm glad it works for you and hope you don't have any issues because of that in the future.

Edit: I guess from a materials standpoint, I don't see poly retaining much of the characteristics that makes it "poly" after being stretched out that much.

Poly does not stretch that much regardless of tension, but I did notice that the Ytex strings stretch more than a lot of the other poly strings I have used.

Poly retains all of its playing characteristics at high tension, I have found just the opposite. Poly does not change that much at high tensions, like a syn. gut or multi does. Those strings will board out at a certain point were many polys seem like they will never board out no matter how tight.

 

[StormHarder]

Playtest Results from StormHarder (Ytex Square X 16L)

Tension(s) used for play test
52
Regular string set up
Gamma Zo Twist 1.25 or Solinco Tour Bite Soft 1.30
Racquet brand and model used for test
Wilson Steam 99S
Power of test string
Love the power all my shots were landing right within baseline
and in doubles good power to pass poaching net player with ease.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)
Very soft feel, felt like it pocketed the ball well, with that said I also
still had good control placing ball were ever I wanted with full swing
Spin
Spin was better than average but not as much as my normal string I use - gamma zo twist or solinco tour bite soft
Comfort
I real liked the comfort, very soft feel. I am a hard hitter on every shot and zero arm issues.
Durability
Well I think on a 18x20 or 16x19 racket the durability might be better, but on my open pattern racket it won't last that long due to thickness of 1.25. It is the same for the gamma zo twist at 1.25. I played day 1 against a top spin player with very little power ( 2 sets ), then day 2 against a hard hitter like myself and broke string during second set. The break was not a miss hit, string broke two left of middle main. The open pattern racket needs 1.30 to perform without breaking during play.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time)
Due to breaking during 4th set - the string really didn't change much
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
The trajectory was a little lower then my normal string, but landed a little deeper in the court. I felt I could control depth with this string, the ball pretty much landed very close to were I was aiming. The string really grabbed the ball on my slices and they didn't sail deep.
Compare to the string you use most often
Compared to gamma zo twist - very very very similar ( only difference is the gamma has last longer for me about 6 to 8 sets ( but depend on type of player on other side of court ) Compared to Solinco Tour Bite Soft - soft like the Solinco, not the same spin but a good amount, little more control with the 1.30 Solinco - could be due to me being comfortable due to using so much.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?)
I love tensions 52 or below the lower the better, so for my game those would be what I would recommend
List any additional thoughts (optional)
Due to 1.25 thickness good for 3.5 play or low 4.0 play, but 4.0/4.5 hard hitters, hard servers - probably won't last long, but if they made a 1.30 thickness would be a good string to use.

 

[mikeler]

Poly does not stretch that much regardless of tension, but I did notice that the Ytex strings stretch more than a lot of the other poly strings I have used.

Poly retains all of its playing characteristics at high tension, I have found just the opposite. Poly does not change that much at high tensions, like a syn. gut or multi does. Those strings will board out at a certain point were many polys seem like they will never board out no matter how tight.

I noticed that Quadro Twist and Square-X stretched more than most polys.

 

[Chotobaka]

I noticed that Quadro Twist and Square-X stretched more than most polys.

I am guessing this is attributable to the inclusion of polyolefin in these strings. This is the same material that gives Isospeed Classic and RIP Control their unique and comfortable feel.

 

[mikeler]

I am guessing this is attributable to the inclusion of polyolefin in these strings. This is the same material that gives Isospeed Classic and RIP Control their unique and comfortable feel.

That would be my guess as well.

 

[tlm]

I noticed that Quadro Twist and Square-X stretched more than most polys.

Yes they do stretch more than most poly strings I have tried.

 

[seekay]

Tension(s) used for playtest 48lb

Regular string set up Luxilon ALU Power Spin mains, ALU Rough crosses @ 45lb

Racquet brand and model used for test Wilson Six.One 95 S

Power of test string Low to moderate. Appropriate for big swings that stay under control.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?) Initially, it was remarkably plush for a full poly string bed.

Spin Better than average -- plenty to keep the ball diving into the court -- but not near the top of the list.

Comfort Surprisingly comfortable, at least when it was fresh.

Durability I'm not sure how to rate it. The string hasn't broken yet, but the playability has dropped to a point where I don't really care to leave it in the racquet.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time) This is the string's main weakness. After about 6 hours of court time, the slick, shiny coating wore off of the sweet spot and the mains stopped snapping back into alignment. After that, performance decreased across the board: the string felt stiffer, spin dropped off, and it just wasn't as pleasant to use.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) Very consistent power and spin, so I found it easy to control my shots.

Compare to the string you use most often Square X has less spin and less power than ALU Power Spin, but it's more comfortable. Both lose their playability disappointingly quickly.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?) I like it at 48 pounds. I'd probably string it up just the same again.

List any additional thoughts (optional) When it's fresh, Square X has an exceptional balance of comfort, spin, and appropriate power that makes it easy to hit heavy balls. I just wish it could maintain that great feeling longer.

Thanks for the playtest, Ytex and T-W!

 

[McLovin]

String: Y-Tex 16L mains / Pacific Poly Force 1.25mm crosses

Tension used for playtest: 48lbs (pre-stretch for both)

Regular string set up: MSV Focus Hex Soft 1.25mm mains / Pacific Poly Force 1.25mm crosses

Racquet brand and model used for test: Pacific BX2 X Force Pro.

Power of test string: Medium to low.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Felt it played crisp, but not uncomfortably. Definitely stiffer than my normal setup.

Spin:: Decent spin. Judging from the profile, I expected a bit more spin out of this. But I think I might have strung it a bit too tight. More on this later...

Comfort: Ok. I didn't feel any discomfort, but I also didn't feel it was extremely soft either.

Durability: N/A. I don't break strings, unless it is gut on a South Florida clay court...

Playability Duration: Initially I hated the string. But as time wore on & it loosened up, I started to like it more. Again, more on this later...

Control: Given the lack of power I got, I would have thought I'd have more control, but I didn't. A few balls flew on me, but that might have been me swinging harder than usual.

Compare to the string you use most often: My 'normal' string setup is Natural Gut mains, smooth poly crosses, but this year I went to a full poly setup for the clay season. I settled on MSV Focus Hex Soft crosses / Pacific Poly Force 1.25mm crosses. The Y-Tex wasn't bad, but I felt more power & spin was generated from the MSV mains. Again, more on that later...

Tension recommendations: I strung this the same as I did my Focus Hex setup so I could compare apple to apples. I honestly believe dropping the tension a few lbs would be better suited to this string. Since I did a hybrid, I have the luxury of doing it again, and I will be trying 45lbs in the next week. The following 3 images show the RacquetTune readings (1) fresh off the machine, (2) after my 1st hit, and (3) my last hit, which was tonight.

Fresh:

After 1st Hit:

After Final Hit:

List any additional thoughts: As I said earlier, I didn't like this string at all initially. I would play a few games, not like it, and go back to my Focus Hex setup. I felt more connected with that setup that with the Y-Tex. I continued to try it for a few games over the next few hits, but just couldn't get accustomed to it. Balls fell short, then flew on me. It was frustrating.

Finally I hit tonight, and it started to feel nice. I was able to generate enough power without feeling like I was sacrificing form/control. Spin was there as well, but still not as much as my Focus Hex setup.

As I said earlier, I'm going to string the 2nd half up at 45lbs and see how it plays. Hopefully I'll get enough time in with it to update the review before the thread is closed.


Thanks to TW for allowing me to do another playtest.

 

[tlm]

Just tried another set of the square x string and was very impressed on how good they played. I was playing indoors which is always easier but still these strings played about as good as it gets.

Great feel, super control and excellent spin with good power. I will string up a set of the quadro twist at the same tension and try those indoors and see if they play as well as the square x does. I thought I liked the quadro better but after today I dont know the square x may be my next string.

I know that the comfort of either of these Ytex strings is unmatched for a poly. I am going to pick one of them and order a spool and be set.

 

[tennisnj]

Tension(s) used for playtest: 45

Regular string set up: Don't have one as I try something new every string job, but I much prefer low tensions & thin gauge polys.

Racquet brand and model used for test: Different from my normal set up of Becker V1 OS---this time was Volkl Organix 10 295.
Power of test string: Low, almost a little too low for me even for a thinner poly.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Comfortable, but a little muted though, & I'm sure I'll be on the minority list for that.

Spin: Actually gave me a little more spin than I usually get, & I generally hit very flat. When I really over-chopped at the ball my friends commented they noticed a little more junk on it.

Comfort: I don't ever have issues with string & comfort, & a tired arm & shoulder after using them most recently was more likely the result of not having hit for a few days & especially using a slightly heavier & stiffer racquet than I normally do.

Durability: Played approximately 8 hours with it until I was able to write this review & noticed no durability issues.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): No noticeable change in tension loss. And very little if any string movement even at a low tension. I was rarely moving strings back to their original positions.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Control is my forte so it had no change in my trajectory, even with a low tension. I could control depth easily, I just wish it had more depth on my groundstrokes, but then again I was using a lower powered racquet than I normally do. My serve absolutely picked up a few MPH & some spin, which was a major plus for me, as that's the shot which I struggle with the most.

Compare to the string set-up you use most often: I change strings so often, it's hard to compare with anything specifically I've used. Out of the 5-7 racquets I'm currently rotating through, the one string which stands out as being much better is Prince Twisted 16L, but I'm not trying to compare them @ all, just simply saying I like them more.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): I always go low at least 5 lbs lower than the recommended low end tension on a racquet, but for some reason I wonder if this string would play better a little tighter.

List any additional thoughts (optional): I'd like to try it in another color other than the white I was given, & see if it plays any differently like many strings do in various colors. I would also like to try it in my regular racquet set up. I wouldn't want to try it any thicker gauge.

 

[mokcl]

Current racquet/string: Dunlop biomimetic 300 tour / BHBR
Tension used for playtest: 48 lbs
Regular string set up: Full poly – isospeed baseline, or hybrid BHBR/Gosen
Racquet brand and model used for test: Dunlop biomimetic 300 tour
Power of test string: medium power. I’m able to plowthrough the balls using hard flat forehand.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): This string is medium, leaning toward muted side.
Spin: spin was average. I need to swing a little upward to clear the net if I hitting it flat. I was expecting little more bite/spin from a shaped poly (apparently square shaped doesn’t bite as hard).
Comfort: very comfortable and I don’t feel much pain even I hit it hard flat forehands.
Durability: I played 3 matches – 2 singles, 1 double match total about 5-6 hours. Strings show minor notching at crosses, main still fine. It should last another 10 hours for me (I’m not a string breaker).
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time). It plays consistently throughout my 3 matches.
Control: Control is great and it help me serve a few wide slice aces on my serve, love it.
Compare to the string you use most often Compared to my usual setup, this string has lower power and spin but offer better control especially great for my serve.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?) I would keep it same as 48 lbs, just right for me.
List any additional thoughts (optional) I agreed with mikeler that it give a nice “thwack” when you hit the spot.

Thanks TW and Ytex for this play test.

 

[footon]

Ytex Square X 16L White

Tension(s) used for playtest: 52 lbs
Regular string set up: Genesis Typhoon 16L or Solinco Tour Bite 17
Racquet brand and model used for test: Babolat Aero Pro Drive 2013
Power of test string: Felt more in the mid to low powered range.
Feel: The feel was not too stiff and soft. Very easy on my arm as compared to Solinco Tour Bite or Typhoon that I normally use.
Spin: spin was decent but not as good as typhoon or tour bite.
Comfort: comfort was very good b/c didn't cause any arm issue.
Durability: so far the durability was pretty good after about 8hrs of court time and tension was at 47lbs after that time period so the tension maintenance was pretty solid.
Playability: Playability was decent b/c the string had pretty good control but was soft as compared to what I usually use.
Control: pretty good control with these strings.
Compare to the string you use most often: not too bad for a soft string but not as lively or as much spin as I would normally get as I would with the Genesis Typhoon or Tour Bite.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?) thought 52 lbs was good for the Aero Pro but you could possibly go to 54/55 lbs since it was a softer strings as compared to my normal string.
List any additional thoughts (optional) String as very easy to string up. Square X felt more round than square upon touch, not so sharp edge as I would have thought as compared to Tour Bite square share. Also didn't care for the white color so much. But overall, it was a very good string to play with.


Much Thanks to TW and Ytex for allowing me to playtest!

 

[tlm]

Just to update my string testing I am going with the square x after testing both thoroughly. The square x has better control which is my first priority.

Both are very good strings and could play with either but prefer the lower power of the square x. The quadro twist feels softer and has a little more power which I think many will like, but for me it is the square x. I ordered a spool today and have finally found a great poly string to use and get away from the arm straining kevlar poly hybrid I was using.

 

[133bp004]

Ytex Square X 16L

Tension for Playtest: 52 lbs

Regular string: Volkl Cyclone 17

Racquet: Head MG Radical MP

Power: I felt this string was on the lower to medium side for power.

Feel/Touch: I liked the feel of this string it was crisp, with a solid feel on impact. Initially a bit stiff at this tension, but feel soon improved.

Spin: I felt the spin was only average. Being marketed as a profiled string I was a bit disappointed with spin/bite potential. The edges of the square profile are very rounded, not sharp.

Comfort: Good comfort for a polyester string, no issues with comfort.

Durability: Looks to be very good so far, no negative durability issues.

Playability Duration: Very slight noticeable tension loss after initial stringing. Overall, tension seemed fairly stable.

Control: Control was good, very consistent. A highlight of this string.

Compare to the string you use most often: I felt the Ytex string had a crisper feel than my usual string with less power and less spin.

Tension recommendations: With the tighter string pattern in the racket, I would go 3-4 pounds lighter next time.

Summary: I thought the Ytex Square X 16L was a good all around poly with decent feel and control. I would have preferred a sharper profile to give better bite and spin potential.

 

[purple-n-gold]

Ytex Square X 16L Black

Tension: Full job at 45 lbs mains and cross, 2 piece.

Regular string set up: I don't really have one at present. Lately I've been using either a Lux 4gR or ALu main with a MonoGut ZX cross. Also trying out various black poly's(full bed) so this was a welcome playtest.

Racquet brand: YY Vcore 95D 16x20

Power of test string: Medium at first then lowered some.

Feel: Firm and comfortable with some elasticity, smooth feel but not too slick for a shiny coated string. Definitely a plus+ for Square X with this play-tester.

Spin: Good, but not as good as compared to TourBite or AluRough. I tend to get the best spin out of stiffer textured strings.

Comfort: Very good for a copoly, please see my coments on the feel

Durability: Holding strong with about 5 hrs playtime on them. Square X's flat profile seems to resist the typical notching I see at the 3-5 hr mark with most polyesters.

Playability Duration: Initially the playability was as good as some of my favorite poly strings. Square X stood out in the feel and pop off the stringbed. Slightly inconsistent results when I did not nail the center but still not harsh nor unpleasant. The shiny sheen of the Square string diminished at around the 3 hr mark, after 2 pro sets worth of doubles on har-tru. Currently with 5 hrs play the mains are still moving back,cross's are not. My only knock on the Square X would be it's finer play longevity, but it's typical for most copolys that are very good out of the gate.

Control: Very good initially, but as mentioned stiffer strings give me the best in this dept.Depth of shot fell off as the the Square X aged.

Compare to the string you use most often: More comfort and power than 4g, but lacks 4g's control and longevity.

Tension recommendations: Satisfied with 45lbs in this raq and string.

List any additional thoughts: Very good overall, would have liked Square-X's initial characteristics to have lasted just a little longer. At $12 a good deal but at $9 would compete well with some of my favorites in that range.

Thank you TW and Ytex for this playtest!
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