Tennis Warehouse: red co-poly playtest (Tourna Prototype)

[TW Staff]

Attention Talk Tennis Members:

This thread is for the red Tourna co-poly.

Your review is due by Wednesday October 20.

Include the following in your review:

Color of string received
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)

We do not have any technical data on the strings and cannot provide tension recommendations.

 

[cknobman]

Updating my post with the review.
I strung this myself on a Klippermate drop weight machine. I found it to have the typical poly coil memory but it was relatively easy to string with. I did not notice any excessive stretching of the string.

Color of string received: red

Tension used for playtest: 50lbs

Regular string set up: Just switched to a new racquet so my regular string setup is still under transition. Right now I have been trying various different polyester strings all strung as full beds @50lbs. RPM blast is my current favorite.

Racquet used for test: Babloat Pure Aero

Power of test string: 7/10 This string offered average power falling right in the middle of the range for most polyester strings I have played with. I did not feel like I had to modify my swing or effort to hit decently paced shots but I also did not feel like I was knocking the cover off the ball.

Feel: Muted This string just did not offer a lot of feel and feedback for me. Initially upon first hit I felt like it might have been a tad stiff but after the first hit the string seemed to just go mute for me.

Spin: 7/10 Average spin for me. This definitely does not offer the level of spin RPM blast does or any shaped polyester string I have tried. I did need to adjust my spin expectations and launch angle to keep balls in play as I felt like the ball just did not dip or dive on my forehands as sharply.

Comfort: 7/10 Average comfort as well. After my first hitting session with this string I thought I felt a slight tingle in my shoulder. Upon subsequent sessions the feeling went away and I had no pain. The string just felt dead to me. While this provided no discomfort I never felt entirely comfortable with it either. It was just "there".

Durability: 10/10 Outstanding. I have played over 3 full matches with this string and 2 practice sessions and have experienced no notching or significant signs of wear. This is definitely a string that will be cut out vs breaking.
UPDATE 10/6/15 After raving about the durability these strings broke last night in my 4th match with them. Not bad really, I just found the limit of their durability. 4 matches inside of 2 weeks is how long these lasted.

Playability Duration: 8/10 Good, but not great. First session offered the most feedback, power, and spin but it also offered the most discomfort. After that session the string just felt like it went dead. It no longer had any discomfort but I also felt like I lost some spin, power, and feel. On a positive note once that happened the string stayed consistent throughout the remainder of the test and once I adjusted to it, I was able to play pretty decent with it. So in my opinion this string has 2 different personalities, one 3 hour personality and after 3 hours is up you gets its second personality which will remain long term.

Control: 8.5/10 Very good. Control is very predictable and dependable with this string. You need to go through an adjustment period after the first 3 hours or cut it out. In the first 3 hours it is pinpoint accuracy with less depth so going for lines is easier but after that when the string loses a little life you get a little more depth at the cost of accuracy.

Compare to the string you use most often: RPM Blast Compared to that string I feel like you get more spin, power, and comfort from RPM Blast. This string just gets muted and dead after a few hours and while it does not loose playabilty it does not offer the same amount of spin or power RPM blast does. This string definitely is more durable and will need to be cut out as I can break RPM Blast inside of week and this string is still going strong with no signs of notching.

Tension recommendations: I don't see any reason to try lower of a tension as the string would probably not move back into position. It may be tempting to try 55lbs but with the slight discomfort I had at 50lbs on my first session I would be afraid it would be even worse at a higher tension. Only reason I would try is to see if the higher tension would keep some of the feel around longer than the first 3 hours.

List any additional thoughts: overall I give this string a 7.5/10. It is by no means a terrible string (I prefer this over something like Kirsch Pro Line II or X), but I do not feel it is in the upper tier of the high end polyester strings. It lost too much feel after the first hitting session and just seemed to be flat. If you are a string breaker or someone who does not want to restring every week than I feel like this string is a great option. Once you make it past that first hit the strings feel and playability will remain consistent until you decide to cut it out, and I feel like you will have to cut it out based on how little it wears.

 

[PGlock]

Receiving a set of the Tourna prototype string which will be fun, I am sure. But I am a little sad because I may have to cut the Luxilon Bronze out before it dies.

 

[ReopeningWed]

Is it too late to sign up?

 

[cknobman]

Receiving a set of the Tourna prototype string which will be fun, I am sure. But I am a little sad because I may have to cut the Luxilon Bronze out before it dies.

If you are talking about the prototype luxilon it was a really great string. Very comfy and great feel.

I broke in last night It made it less than 3 full matches.

 

[PGlock]

Is it too late to sign up?

Unfortunately, you just missed it by a few days.

 

[PGlock]

If you are talking about the prototype luxilon it was a really great string. Very comfy and great feel.

I broke in last night It made it less than 3 full matches.

Yes, that's the one I'm referring to. I really like that string and think it would be a good option for a gut poly hybrid too.

 

[SteveI]

I am very happy I got into this test and I got the Tourna String!! I really enjoy their polys and looking forward to testing the heck out of this one.
Has anyone seen this out there? I was wondering if we would be getting a 17G or a 16G? Smooth? Shaped? Twisted?

I like to get some kind of idea about the string for a tension. You go too high or low.. then the results do not seem to be too valid for the test.

 

[jim e]

I like to get some kind of idea about the string for a tension. You go too high or low.. then the results do not seem to be too valid for the test.

I would assume it would be best to string it at the tension you would normally would string your poly strings at , as that way you could compare it to your typical poly set up keeping that variable the same.

 

[TW Staff]

Attention Playtesters: your samples shipped on Thursday 9/17. Please email discuss admin if you don't receive your sample by Friday 9/25. Subject: Playtest string not received.

We won't be able to send a replacement, but we will need to know for our records.

Thanks,
TW Staff

 

[SteveI]

I would assume it would be best to string it at the tension you would normally would string your poly strings at , as that way you could compare it to your typical poly set up keeping that variable the same.

That is great advice.. but I like to have the string set up as close to optimal for my game and frame.. since I would not play it at too high or too low a tension. It might cause me to give the string a bad review when indeed it might be a great string if I installed it at the right tension..

 

[SteveI]

Just got my sample. Great looking red color. Seems to be a round poly. Maybe this is Big Hitter Red.... or maybe Red Zone??

 

[PGlock]

Just got my sample. Great looking red color. Seems to be a round poly. Maybe this is Hitter Red.... or maybe Red Zone??

Can you tell what gauge it is?

 

[PGlock]

I just received my set and it is unmarked so there's nothing to indicate the gauge of the string. It looks and feels like 17 gauge string to me and also seems to be stiffer and more wiry.

 

[Doc Hollidae]

Received mine yesterday will be stringing it up tonight. The red will look sweet in my Volkl SG 10 Mid 320. I normally play with Big Hitter Blue 17, so pretty excited to try this string. It looks to be 17 gauge, but I haven't had a chance to put it next to BHB. Seemed to be decently soft in hand, with the current trend in polys, I'd expect this to be softer than BHB. Will probably string it at 52/50.

 

[thebigz]

Anyone already strung it up?

 

[therecanbeonlyone]

I strung mine up last night. Like others have said, it feels like a thinner gauge (maybe 17). It is round and feels pretty smooth/slick. Not to the point of slipping in the clamps, but i am betting they are going for snap-back benefits with whatever coating is on this string. I'll play it tonight in a doubles match.

 

[Blade0324]

Got a set of the red sent to me. Thank you TW!! Feels like a 17g to me, like others have said, it's smooth and round. Strung it up last night, playing with it this afternoon so I hope to have some initial thoughts soon.

 

[TW Staff]

1.25mm

 

[mad dog1]

strung it up and hit with it today for about 2.5 hours. initial impressions are all VERY positive! me likey alot!

 

[eelhc]

strung it up and hit with it today for about 2.5 hours. initial impressions are all VERY positive! me likey alot!

What frame + tension are you using and which part of the country are you in (weather/temp)?

Got my set yesterday, very red and feels stiff. I'm in the Northeast and this time of the year I drop tension several pounds for the cooler temps. I generally use poly at low tensions to begin with...

 

[mad dog1]

What frame + tension are you using and which part of the country are you in (weather/temp)?

Got my set yesterday, very red and feels stiff. I'm in the Northeast and this time of the year I drop tension several pounds for the cooler temps. I generally use poly at low tensions to begin with...

i strung it up in the pure storm gt at 52/49 on babolat sensor. i'm in so cal where it's still quite warm (80-90 degrees).

while it feels stiff in your hand, once it's strung up in the racquet, it is a soft feeling poly. it's not elastic and stretchy feeling like BHBR or BHB7. this red string while soft is more of a control type string. hope this helps!

 

[cknobman]

I received mine on Monday, strung it up Tuesday, and played with it for the first time last night.

Stringing went smooth as the string is not overly stiff or soft, kinda falls right in the middle.
String it @50lbs in my Babloat Pure Aero.

Initial impressions from last night are not all that great for me.

String just felt dead/flat. It did not feel very comfortable and I felt like I had to swing out of the park to get any pace on the ball. Spin generation seemed to be on the lower side for a polyester type string but still more than using a multi/syn gut.

I am going to play my league doubles match with it Saturday and probably write my review after that.

 

[thebigz]

strung up at 38 lbs in my 2013 APD+. Super comfortable and muted feel. Very Nice ball pocketing with plenty power and spin. I can feel the string snap out and back

 

[mad dog1]

strung up at 38 lbs in my 2013 APD+. Super comfortable and muted feel. Very Nice ball pocketing with plenty power and spin. I can feel the string snap out and back

yes, mirrors my experience as well. good to see that performance is similar at different tensions, too.

 

[brettatk]

Strung mine up tonight. The red looks good in my 6.1 95S. Looking forward to playing with them.

 

[Doc Hollidae]

Played three sets of doubles last night. Initial review is this strings got a lot of pop. LOTS. Strung my Volkl SG 10 Mid 320 at 52/50. Definitely think I could have strung it a few lbs. higher. Good feel. Drop shots and angled volleys were excellent, especially since touch is not a strength for me. Found myself overhitting my backhand slice quite often, which rarely happens to me with any other string. Spin was about the same as Big Hitter Blue 17. I didn't notice any extra spin though. It's crisper than Big Hitter Blue, but not by much. The string is comfortable and pretty soft, but stiffer than Big Hitter Blue. If I had another set, I think I would string it at 54/52 the second time around. Based on first impressions, I wouldn't consider this much different from Big Hitter Blue. They have pretty similar performance IMO. Tension maintenance seemed pretty good, I'll report back with more after I hit again this coming Sunday.

 

[PGlock]

I strung this in one of my racquets earlier today at 51lbs and will play with it tomorrow morning. Looks really good in a RF97 too.

 

[Chace]

Just got mine today, thanks TW. Will most likely string it up tomorrow.

 

[mad dog1]

Played three sets of doubles last night. Initial review is this strings got a lot of pop. LOTS. Strung my Volkl SG 10 Mid 320 at 52/50. Definitely think I could have strung it a few lbs. higher. Good feel. Drop shots and angled volleys were excellent, especially since touch is not a strength for me. Found myself overhitting my backhand slice quite often, which rarely happens to me with any other string. Spin was about the same as Big Hitter Blue 17. I didn't notice any extra spin though. It's crisper than Big Hitter Blue, but not by much. The string is comfortable and pretty soft, but stiffer than Big Hitter Blue. If I had another set, I think I would string it at 54/52 the second time around. Based on first impressions, I wouldn't consider this much different from Big Hitter Blue. They have pretty similar performance IMO. Tension maintenance seemed pretty good, I'll report back with more after I hit again this coming Sunday.

i noticed this as well after spending some more time with the string

 

[Triskadekaphilia]

Red Tourna co-poly playtest

This string was straightforward to string up. It does seem somewhat gummy and malleable in hand, in that it bends easily without kinking. This does make some of the weaving a little slower, but no big deal. I have been inching down on full poly stringbeds so I strung up mains and crosses (two-piece on a dropweight) at 43. Light prestretch, just enough to take out coil memory. Racquet tune read 42.9 an hour or so after unloading the frame.

I have played 10 hours so far. I really liked the first singles hit with the string. Basically no adjustment needed, I was getting the spin and depth I wanted right away. It has played well from then on, with the expected manageable drop in performance on subsequent sessions (no poly plays better than its first freshly-strung session).

Color of string received: Red. No gauge listed, but 1.25 per TW (see above post)

Tension(s) used for playtest: 43

Regular string set up: Gut 56 Main / Poly 48 Cross (usually pacific classic or klip with MSV cofocus)

Racquet brand and model used for test: Prokennex Redondo Type C Mid plus

Power of test string: It has a nice pocket and the power is there when needed.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): This string has a lot of ball feel, very good for a poly. No problems with slow balls or drop shots. No problem with slices, judging depth or height.

Spin: Pretty good, prob about average for a round poly. One of the best things is that the power and spin are about equal, so I can dial up the pace and topspin and the depth stays pretty even.

Comfort: Quite comfortable for a poly. No issues so far.

Durability: I tend to use polys about 10-20 hours until they die and cut out. Durability per se will not be an issue.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): This string seems a lot like kirschbaum pro line II. I bet it will last about 15-20 hours before it becomes harsh and notchy and will likely gain power as it dies. After 10 hours it has developed some notchiness but still feels fine with stable play characteristics. It will last another 5-10 hours, I expect, before it becomes harsh and unpleasant for my play.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Good control as stated above. It has the right amount of spin and power.

Compare to the string you use most often: Like many polys, this tourna offering feels great when fresh and it all comes down to how it ages and how long it goes before it dies. I have yet to find a poly I can tolerate longer than 20 hours of play. With gut poly it takes a long time to notice the poly cross dying (the gut never dies), it keeps going dozens of hours after the full-poly stingbeds have gone to the grave. When fresh this tourna string has a lot of feel and a great pocket. Its a lot of fun to play with since it seems to have a little more spin than the gut poly (and even a little more feel, which may be due to the lower tension).

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): I like this tension a lot right off the bat.

List any additional thoughts (optional): This string has a lot of flexibility, which is definitely not true of many polys. It can hit hard topspin but also slow balls and touch shots very well. Good power, enough spin, and great feel for a poly.

 

[eelhc]

It would be helpful if folks added the type of stringing machine (and if an electronic whether prestretch option was used) and the weather/temperature the playtest was conducted in (even altitude if high up enough). For those of us in the cooler climates, playing indoors in the evenings mean temps in the lower 60s (and for me ~2-300ft above sea level depending on where locally I play). I normally drop tension several pounds for the fall-spring indoor season.

 

[mad dog1]

Color of string received: Red
Tension(s) used for playtest: 52/49# strung on a Babolat Sensor; i'm in so cal where temperatures continue to remain in the upper 80 to upper 90 degrees
Regular string set up: Volkl Cyclone 17, Volkl V-Pro, Tecnifibre Pro Red Code 17
Racquet brand and model used for test: Babolat Pure Storm GT (tail weighted)
Power of test string: Medium powered; more powerful than any of the other 3 strings listed above, but it's controllable power.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): muted and soft yet not mushy or plasticky like BHBR.
Spin: on par with other round copolys
Comfort: comfort is excellent; i experienced no shoulder pain at all.
Durability: quite good for a soft, comfortable playing string. i've put 9 hours on the string bed so far over the course of 4 sessions and the mains are just starting to show some moderate notching. approximately 1/4 notched. the crosses are getting ground down some and the mains are still snapping back.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): so far playability is excellent and unchanged through 8 hours of play. by hour 9, i noticed that playability started to drop. shots that were landing in previously were now starting to land a bit long. tension maintenance was very good. the string bed remained very consistent over the 9 hours.
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Directional control is excellent. I had no issues moving the ball from side to side and getting it to go where i intended. Depth was easy to control as well as long as i was hitting topspin. try as i might after 5 hours of hitting, but my slices were still sailing a foot or two long. haven't been able to dial this in. topspin drives required no adjustments at all. volleys and serves are fine as well. when reacting to a hard hit groundie at net, my reaction volleys did pop up more than usual. on my 4 th session, i finally got the slice dialed in. i had to adjust my contact a little later than with the other strings, before the ball stayed low and landed in.
Compare to the string you use most often: cyclone, v-pro and pro red code are all a bit more predictable when it comes to slice. the tourna test string is on par with the other 3 strings when it comes to overall control. it does have more power than the others. comfort is on par w/ v-pro and perhaps a bit more comfy than pro red code and cyclone which are both pretty crisp feeling.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): i thought the tension was spot on, but given the inability to get the slice dialed in so far, i would try increasing the cross tension 2#s.
List any additional thoughts (optional): my fave tourna string by far. seems very durable and playability seems pretty stable and good through 8 hours of play. comfort was excellent. very easy to string. very enjoyable playtest. given it's tourna, i imagine this will be a very affordable string if offered. as such, i liked the overall performance of the string enough to consider buying a few sets to play with.

thanks so very much, TeeDub and Tourna for the opportunity to participate in this very enjoyable playtest!

 

[darklore009]

Color of string received: red

Tension(s) used for playtest: 55ibs

Regular string set up: Pro's Pro Vendetta @ 55ibs

Racquet brand and model used: Wilson Prostaff 90 BLX

Power of test string: The power is on the higher side. This also include more pop to my shots than my standard string setup. It did took me awhile to get used to before settling in this string.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): The feel of the string is middle of the road for me. It isnt too soft that its mushy, but not stiff enough to hurt my arm. More on the muted side, but with a popping sound.

Spin Its average for me. I didnt notice any difference in spin between this string and my regular setup.

Comfort: Didnt notice any arm discomfort. As mentioned in the Feel section, pretty soft for a co poly.

Durability: I didnt notice any notching. Even @ mid tension, it yet to move around. Although I would suspect that it will happen starting this week.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): It was lively when it came out from the machine. After a few sessions, it did start to settle in and started to play nicely. Even when i'm writing this review, the string yet to change it's playability.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): This is my favorite aspect of this string. I want polys to control for my hard hitting flat stroke and this string delivers it. Its easy to put very deep angle shots in the dime with this string. Slices are lands very deep and have no trouble controlling my serves with this string.

Compare to the string you use most often: I can compare this string to Pro Line II, since they have the same feeling and its red color appearance. This string almost played the same as my regular set up once it settle in. Another comparison i can make it Tecnifibre Red Code.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): I would go a bit higher in tension because of that initial lively feel when it comes out of the machine. If i raise it, then it would have solved the issue and would have transition very easily.

List any additional thoughts (optional): This string caught my attention. This string delivers what i need from a tennis string. It's control- orientated and its last long as I want it. Its very hard to find other strings that meet my criteria and this string does it. Although im curious who much this would go for retail price, but if it works for my game, I wont mind buying a reel of this stuff.

 

[SteveI]

I am guessing this is Big Hitter Red... I would expect it to be about the same as Blue, or Silver price wise. The most expensive poly they sell is BHB7 and it is only $99.00 a reel. The Blue and Silver (round versions) are great price/ performers

 

[Chace]

Color of string received- Red
Tension(s) used for playtest- 51 pounds, strung on an eagnas manual crank machine. I live in Florida and the temperature is still in the upper 80s to low 90s. Very easy to string up.
Regular string set up- black magic 17g or tour bite soft at 51 pounds
Racquet brand and model used for test- head youtek IG prestige pro
Power of test string- for a poly it is about average as far as power. Comparable to black magic in terms of power.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?)- the feel was muted
Spin- about average for a round poly
Comfort- very nice comfort for a poly. It seems a little softer than the black magic.
Durability- I had about 6 hours on it before I broke it on an overhead miss hit. I think I would of gotten 7-8 hours out of it before it breaks if it weren't for the shanked overhead. I usually get 7-8 hours out of tour bite soft and black magic before they break.
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?) playability was great. The string bed seemed to play consistent throughout the playtest. I didn't notice much of a tension loss. Very honest string bed on a shots. No problems with touch on drop shots or volleys.
Compare to the string you use most often- to me it was an good string all around just like black magic. It doesn't excell in any specific areas, it is just a solid good all around poly, which I like. Spin and power about the same as black magic. Tour bite soft produces more spin than both black magic and the tourna.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?)I would stay with 51 pounds.
List any additional thoughts (optional)- depending on the price I could see myself switching to this string. I would assume if it is priced like other tourna strings then it will be very affordable and reasonably priced like other tourna strings.

Thanks TW and Tourna.

 

[mad dog1]

finally got my slice dialed in w/ the string. but unfortunately by around 8-9 hours, playability has started to drop and control is getting sloppier. it seems quite durable and fairly resistant to notching for a soft string.

 

[eelhc]

10/03 Played 2 sets of singles indoors. Around 60*F
10/04 Played 2 sets of doubles indoors. A little above 60*F
10/12 Played 3 sets of doubles indoors. Mid 60*Fs

Stringing
Color of string received: The Red Tourna Co-Poly
Tension(s) used for playtest: 40# two-piece on a crank lockout, no pre-stretch
Regular string set up: Head Hawk @53# one piece (on this frame)
Racquet brand and model used for test: Tecnifibre TFight 315 ATP LTD 16M (16x19)

I am in the Northeast at 2~300 feet above sea level. So the altitude is not significant but temperature is. It is now dropping into the 50s and 40s in the evenings around my parts and the indoor season is ramping up. It's usually going to be ~60*F or lower on the courts when I play so I dropped the tension to 40# for this playtest.
I cut 8-1/2 racquet lengths (~19'2") for the mains and had 1' of tail left on each side after tying off. I cut the same 8-1/2 racquet lengths and with ~8" tail on the head to start, I had a full racquet length (27") tail lefter tying off at the throat. So fo a reel, 8-1/2 racquet lengths for mains and 8 racquet lengths for crosses will be plenty (just over 37 feet).
String has a good amount of coil memory but was easy to handle once I got going strnging. Took ~35min stringing casually.

Playtest
Power of test string: Average power for a poly. Although I find little power difference between one poly to the next at lower tensions. No change in power. Noticed a tad more power in slightly warmer conditions.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Stiff to start but after a few games and the initial tension loss the string bed softened up a bit and felt crisp/muted. String bed is a tad softer still. I really like the sound these strings make when I hit the ball hard on the sweetspot. It's a nice, sharp higher pitched (but not tinny) twack. Nice positive feedback. Stringbed is still crisp but I can feel it loosening up a bit.
Spin: I got excellent topspin on forehands. I would say better than average for a poly. Someone mentioned that backhand slices tended to float up a bit. This was my experience as well which would indicate more spin. Ball was really dipping. Had a couple of shots where my opponents let the ball go at the net only to have it dip into the court. Maybe it's my tension (went low for the fall temps) but I am really noticing the spin.
Comfort: At 40# tension on a soft frame, there aren't too many strings that are uncomfortable. But this is definitely NOT a soft/plush string. Felt crisp still but the setup is comfortable. Still very comfortable.
Durability: I'm not a string breaker so Durability = Playability duration for me.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): Played a total of 18 games. Both my opponent today and I try to end points early and do not get into extended rallys. Several games went to multiple Deuce points though. The string bed settled in after the first few games and I did not notice any significant changes in playing characteristics after that. No appreciable tension loss after ~3Hrs. I did notice a slightly looser stringbed but it was warmer today.
Compare to the string you use most often: On this frame I played Head Hawk @ 53# during the summer when it was much warmer so really not an apples to apples comparison - The Hawk is softer and doesn't provide as much spin.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): I think the string does well at low tensions. Still feels crisp with good control. I dropped tension to 40# for the cool weather and I think it was the right decision. At 60*F, the ball is definitely not bouncing as high or flying as far as it was during the summer. I would still keep it at 40#.
List any additional thoughts (optional): Tourna polys are are generally priced well. I have played BHBR and Cyber Blue (very similar if not the same string as BHB) previously. I think I prefer the softer feel of those other strings over the Red Co-Poly.

Thanks TW and Tourna for the playtest.

 

[PGlock]

String received: Tourna Red Prototype
Tension(s) used for playtest: 51lbs on Babolat Sensor. It is officially Fall in Ohio and temps during the day are in the 60’s with some evenings in the mid 40’s. I am playing indoor and outdoor at this point so my comments are a hybrid for both environments.
Racquet used for playtest: Wilson Pro Staff RF97
Regular string set up: Babolat VS 16 at 55lbs and Wilson Revolve 17 at 49lbs
Power: This string had more power than many of the polys that I have tried. So more than Head Hawk, Kirschbaum Max Power, Lux Element, and Volkl Cyclone. I think it is also a little more powerful in comparison to Wilson Revolve which I use most often at this time.
Feel: This is not at all what I would call a firm or crisp string. I felt like the string was softer with more ball pocketing and muted. You can feel the ball being pulled into the string as you make contact, especially on harder hit shots. I would say it plays softer than Wilson Revolve which is not a stiff string.
Spin: I did not notice huge spin being generated by this string and would rate it in the middle of the poly pack. Wilson Revolve generates a lot more spin in my experience.
Comfort: Tourna Red is a very arm friendly string in the poly line and I experienced no arm problems or discomfort.
Durability: I had no problems with the durability of Tourna Red but I generally do not break poly strings unless they are really thin or in really open string pattern racquets.
Playability Duration: Playability duration began to change after about 5 hours. At that point it felt like there was a drop in tension and I could see some notching starting in the stringbed. The change in tension since then has been gradual and noticeable but not huge. If anything, the string bed has become softer and more comfortable.
Control: Control from this string was actually quite good for the first 5 hours but I would say that it has been decreasing gradually since then. More balls are landing a little longer and I am not as comfortable taking a big swing.
Compare to the string you use most often: I am really using Revolve in a hybrid and have only played with a full bed when I did the TW playtest using a different racquet. But I do think that Tourna Red has a little more power and is more comfortable. Revolve is better in my opinion in all other categories: more spin, more control, firmer feel, much greater playability duration.
Tension recommendations: I would recommend increasing tension by 2 or 3 pounds after playing with this string to increase control and maybe the playability duration.
Additional thoughts: Tourna Red is a good softer feeling string with a good power level that will be easy on the arm and probably your wallet.

Thanks to Tourna and TW for the playtest!

 

[corneliuscobb]

Comfort: At 40# tension on a soft frame, there aren't too many strings that are uncomfortable. But this is definitely NOT a soft/plush string.

You strung at 40lbs and you think this string is stiff? Are you a senior citizen ie aged 60+?

 

[eelhc]

You strung at 40lbs and you think this string is stiff? Are you a senior citizen ie aged 60+?

Nope... Just a sensitive arm/elbow.

I've been stringing poly at low tensions for some time now. What I have noticed is that a crisp/muted string will not become any softer/plush at lower tensions. Hard to explain... The strung bed may feel softer but will not have that plush and deep ball pocketing feel. Like I said at this low tension no string is uncomfortable but some string just feel crisper.

 

[corneliuscobb]

Nope... Just a sensitive arm/elbow.

I've been stringing poly at low tensions for some time now. What I have noticed is that a crisp/muted string will not become any softer/plush at lower tensions. Hard to explain... The strung bed may feel softer but will not have that plush and deep ball pocketing feel. Like I said

At this low tension no string is uncomfortable but some string just feel crisper.

If you have tennis elbow / delicate elbows, you're pretty silly to be using a poly. What USTA rating are you? It would be worth getting a coach to having a look at your technique and to what extent you're 'arming' the ball and other bad technique as that's often the cause of tennis elbow.

 

[eelhc]

If you have tennis elbow / delicate elbows, you're pretty silly to be using a poly. What USTA rating are you? It would be worth getting a coach to having a look at your technique and to what extent you're 'arming' the ball and other bad technique as that's often the cause of tennis elbow.

Had tennis elbow when I played a stiff frame with soft strings at high tensions to control the power.

I no longer have TE but my elbow can feel vibration, shock, tension difference. A sensitive but not an injured elbow. I came back to the game from a 25 year hiatus a couple of years back and take lessons/clinic 1~2x a week. The pros and I have surmized the main cause of my TE to be bad footwork. I had been getting too close to the ball, getting jammed and alligator arming the ball. We've since addressed this and other issues but bad habits have a nasty habit of returning once in a while.

Poly being bad for the elbow is a generalization. Modern polys and co-poly (like the test string) are as comfortable as the synthetics/nylons.

The Chris Edwards (TW) thread on low, low tensions changed my thinking to string types, tensions, etc. For me, poly at low tensions on a soft frame is the best setup with a combination of comfort, control and a crisp feel. It's like putting low profile tires on a car with a soft suspension but it works for me (and many others on TT).

I know many folks who got TE playing with pure drives and natural gut at high tensions (seems to be one of the most popular setups) to control the power. Some with good and some with bad technique.

Getting back on topic to the test string. It was boardy to start but once settled in with initial tension loss, felt crisp/muted. I felt no harsh vibration or other ill effects on the TFight 315 @ 40#.

 

[Doc Hollidae]

Color of string received: Red
Tension(s) used for playtest: 52/50 on a Gamma X-2 Dropweight
Regular string set up: Big Hitter Blue 17 at 54/52 on a Gamma X-2 Dropweight
Racquet brand and model used for test: Volkl SG 10 Mid 320
NTRP rating: 4.5
Location: Norcal 80-90 degree weather

Power of test string: This was the characteristic that stood out the most. This string had a lot of pop. I found myself hitting backhand slices which is pretty rare for me. The ball tended to carry further than expected. I was able to get good depth on groundstrokes and the power helped with reaction volleys and putaways. Loved hitting flat serves with this string.

Feel: Soft. For a poly this is definitely on the softer side. The ball pocketed well and did not have a plastic-like feel.

Spin: On par with most rounded polys. I noticed the strings had good snap back. No trouble producing topspin and kick serves were bouncing a good 5-6 feet.

Comfort: Very comfortable. I've been playing with polys for a while and this was definitely one of the most comfortable. To me it didn't feel much stiffer than a Gosen OG Sheep.

Durability: Durabilty has been great. Seems to hold tension pretty well after several hitting sessions. Notching is minimal.

Playability Duration: Hold tension well. String bed has not gotten mushy after several hitting sessions and matches. I'd estimate this string could probably play well 3-4 weeks before needing to be restrung. At least for me.

Control: Control was good. I had not trouble with control outside of my backhand slice. I was able to hit touch and angled volleys I normally don't make. There was good bite and I was able to hit my spots on my serve.

Compare to the string you use most often: Compared to Big Hitter Blue 17, its a tad stiffer, but not by much. There's a bit more power and better spin due to being slightly stiffer. The tension maintenance is better, BHB 17 tends to get mushy after 3-4 session. The feel is not much different and comfort is about the same. Outside of the backhand slice, control was on par if not better.

Tension recommendations: I'd go back to my normal 54/52. I had dropped down to 52/50 with Big Hitter Blue, but the extra power was surprising with this red string.

List any additional thoughts: There's a good chance I'd switch to this string once it comes out. I assume it will be Big Hitter Red. Outside of the backhand slice, I really enjoyed the string. It was soft and powerful and kept its tension longer than Big Hitter Blue. Tourna makes some great strings. Thanks for the playtest TW.

 

[porsche2]

Color of string received: Red, 1.25 gauge according to TW
Tension(s) used for playtest: 48lb in a dropweight machine
Regular string set up: Tourna Big Hitter Black 7 17G @ 46lb
Racquet brand and model used for test: Dunlop 4D200T weighted to 12.8oz and 8pts HL
Power of test string: It is pretty powerful but pretty similar in power to other Tourna BHBR and BHB7. Both of which I would rate higher up on the power scale. The power isn’t unwieldy though and is actually really nice at times, especially on first serves.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): This is where this string differs from other Tourna poly offerings, except for maybe BHSR, this string has very nice feel. The ball pockets well and feels crisp on the string. Volleying with this string feels very nice and gives me more confidence up there when compared to my regular BHB7.
Spin: As others have mentioned, this string is not spectacular when it comes to spin. It is pretty middle of the line for a co-poly, similar to Tourna Black Zone in this category.
Comfort: I have not had any problem with comfort. It definitely felt stiffer when stringing and I was worried that it would be a little tough but the string has been fine.
Durability: I am not a string breaker so playability duration is durability for me.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): Tension maintenance seems pretty good 8 hours in. The string is playing fairly well for the entire time but it seems to be getting a little more powerful however the spin has stayed pretty consistent. UPDATE: 2 hours later and this string is unplayable. Enjoyed the first 8 hours, but like BHB7 it goes from playing well to playing like garbage within an hour.
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): The control of this string is fairly decent. I would have liked a little less power but I can get the ball where I want it to go. One problem I’ve had is that slices tend to float a little longer than usual affecting my depth but topspin shots are dead on. As I stated earlier, volleying with this string is very nice especially when compared to my regular BHB7. Serving also feels nice but is nothing spectacular in terms of control
Compare to the string you use most often: I’ve somewhat done this throughout the review but compared to BHB7 this string is a little stiffer, has less spin, but equivalent power. Where I feel this string was exceptional is the tension management/playability because the string feels just as good 8 hours later. At around this point BHB7 tends to start getting mushy and uncontrollable.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): I really liked the 48lb but I’m interested in how well this string would work in a lower tension because it might add some spin and the feel will still be there.
List any additional thoughts (optional): This string is very similar to Black Zone except I’d say this is more comfortable and has better feel. Thank you to Tennis Warehouse and Tourna for a chance to test out this string!

 

[XFactorer]

Color of string received: Red
Tension(s) used for playtest: 50 lbs
Regular string set up: Yonex PolyTour Pro @ 50 lbs
Racquet brand and model used for test: Yonex EZONE Ai98
Power of test string: 9/10
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Crisp, powerful
Spin: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10
Durability: 9/10
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): All of these 9s that I'm giving are initial scores right after stringing the racquet. Within an hour, the strings 'baselined.'
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): 8/10
Compare to the string you use most often - Compared to the Yonex PolyTour Pro or Volkl Cyclone, this string has power and spin, but sadly, that doesn't last very long.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): Go lower tension, I feel that will help the string keep its playability after the brief honeymoon phase (within 1 hour of stringing).
List any additional thoughts (optional): This string has pop, spin, all sorts of feel for the first hour of my hit. And then it was over. I absolutely loved the string for the first hour. Now that I've had it in the racquet for days, it's "OK." Feels like a deadened ALU Power. I feel the tension maintenance is where it should be, but I lost all of the pop. That's not to say after the break-in this string is bad. It's just that I wished it could hold its initial feel. I won't be switching to this string just because I off that rollercoaster high/low effect. I don't think it will get back to the high again.

Final Power of test string: 6/10
Final Spin: 6/10
Final Comfort: 7/10
Final Durability: 9/10

 

[Blackkitty]

Color of string received: Red
Tension(s) used for playtest: 53 lbs on lock-out machine.

Regular string set up: RPM blast 17g at 53 lbs.

Racquet brand and model used for test: Dunlop Biomimetic 300 Tour

Power of test string: This string had a lot of power. Pretty much on par with RPM blast as well as Volkl Cyclone Tour (another string I had used in the past). I found easy power especially when redirecting shots or hitting returns.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Definitely on the soft/muted side. It started out decently lively but settled in within the first hour to its slightly muted feel that lasted throughout the playtest. I wouldn't say that it was muted in a bad way, but it also
didn't feel like it was a "soft" branded string. Kinda felt like a stiff string that almost immediately relaxed itself after a couple hits.

Spin: Decent spin. Nothing compared to RPM or Cyclone Tour, but alright. I have a feeling it may have to do something with the launch angle off the bed that this string gives.

Comfort: Very comfortable throughout the entire playtest. I would definitely recommend this string to someone working their way through an arm injury.

Durability: Low. I broke this string at about 5-6 hours of hitting. Although I didn't start hitting with it until a week after it was strung. I don't know if this had anything to do with it.

Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): The playability between the first hour and the 2+ hours was very different. I felt like it played like an average stiff poly to start then loosened up considerably and played like a great soft poly for the rest of its lifespan. So, from the second hour and onward, it consistently very good.

Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Control was a little lost for me on this string. Flatter strokes were easy to control (maybe because of this strings power), but slices and topspin was a bit lost on me. Often, I felt like I couldn't bring the ball down on my forehand.

Compare to the string you use most often: Still doesn't live up to the remarkable qualities of RPM Blast. It would be a decent alternative as a wallet saver if it was priced under $10. Also the durability was below average for me, because I play with RPM until it breaks which is around the 10 hour mark.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): Maybe go a little higher. Not much though. I really liked the easy access to power I was getting. I don't know if raising the tension would help with the access to spin I felt I wasn't getting.

List any additional thoughts (optional): The red color matched awesomely with my Bio 300T and I think it will fit great in Tourna's string line up.

Finally, thanks to Tennis Warehouse for the opportunity to test out this string. I look forward to more playtests in the future!

 

[tennis007]

Color of string received: Red
Tension used for playtest: 40 lbs.
Regular string setup: Mains: Signum Pro Firestorm 17g x crosses: Polyfibre Viper1.25 - @42 lbs.
Racquet brand and model used for test: Head Graphene Prestige MidPlus (18x20)
Power of test string: I was able to generate good amount of power with the string and even when I hit hard thru the ball, control was excellent.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): muted and comfortable.
Spin: Average
Comfort: Very comfortable
Durability: String is holding up very well, including the tension.
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): Durability so far is excellent. I've played about 8 so far and the string maintains it's feel very well.
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Excellent. I felt comfortable hitting thru the ball and maintain control on majority of my shots.
Compare to the string you use most often: This string provided me with better control and comfort than number of strings I have been playing with in the past.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): Tension at 40 lbs provided me with excellent feel, comfort, and spin.

I feel that this is an excellent string and really enjoyed playing with it. I will certainly order this string once it becomes available.

 

[SteveI]

Color of string received: Tourna Red (1.25 mm)
Tension(s) used for playtest: 50 / 48 lbs
Regular string set up: Tourna Big Hitter Silver 17G / Syn Gut Crosses (50/48)
Racquet brand and model used for test: Dunlop Bio 400 Tour
Power of test string: Average
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?): Began crisp, then settled in to feel very plush but not mushy
Spin: Good, not great compared to multi-sided or gear shaped polys. About the same as Big Hitter Blue and Silver 17G.. not as good as BHB7
Comfort: Very good, no arm discomfort or pain. These are very nice feeling strings
Durability: I could get at least 12-15 hours out of these since I am not a big hitter like say a college player. Stringing at 50 /48 helps
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time): Very linear response. Better than BH Blue, Silver, and BHB7. Tourna has made an
upgrade here. More like the Black Zone.
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) : Nice connection to the string bed, no hot spots. Again, think an upgrade in the Big Hitter Line. Tourna might be using a different process in making these. I have used all the Big Hitter Polys... these are the best!
Compare to the string you use most often: See above... already addressed
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?): In a 16 x 19 100 head... tension seemed perfect.. If I was using 18 x20 in lower for sure.
List any additional thoughts (optional): Another great price/performer from Tourna. If they price this with the other string in their line.. I have a new string!!!
Thanks TW and Tourna. Loved the string!!! Tourna now has all the colors covered!!!

 

[jim e]

Color of string received: Red
Tension(s) used for playtest: 47 Lbs.
Regular string set up: Wilson Nat. Gut 64lbs.
Racquet brand and model used for test: Head Radical
Power of test string: Was able to generate plenty of power, similar to many polys 4/5
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp?) :Little more feel than muted, not crisp, but somewhere in between 3.5/5
Spin: although I am relatively flat style hitter, I was able to get spin as needed 4/5
Comfort: Was comfortable through out the test, a very comfortable string 4/5
Durability:7 hours of singles hitting and strings have minimal notching so far so good. 4/5
Playability Duration (share thoughts on if/how the playability changed over time) : As said I have 7 hours hitting, and once strings settled in, playability has been steady and has still good playability.4/5
Control (predictable trajectory? Easy to control depth? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Very decent control especially for big baseline shots, as the string has good control for hard hitting flat hits as that's my style of hitting. 4/5
Compare to the string you use most often: nat. gut has more power and comfort along with feel, but compared to many other polys, this is a good control string especially for a more flat style hitter like me.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension? Why?) : Since the control was there at 47 lbs. I would not change that. Seemed to be just right for my style of hitting.