The Official Angell Users Club

J

joohan

Guest
Hoho
Long journey...after departinf with my 2 TC95s i moved to a TC90...After my surgical tc90s I wanna get the tc97 now :D

Could someone plz compare the TC90 330g/12pts and TC97 330g/12pts 16x19?

Main reason is wanting a larger sweetspot. TC95 sweetspot is great but it doesn't feel right without lead at the sides for me which I don't like, and I've read that the TC97 doesn't require lead in those areas, more comfortable than the TC95. And I prefer to lead it at the top of the hoop rather than the sides since it personally feels better which is why I'd prefer the 97 > 95.
Hoho
Long journey...after departinf with my 2 TC95s i moved to a TC90...After my surgical tc90s I wanna get the tc97 now :D

Could someone plz compare the TC90 330g/12pts and TC97 330g/12pts 16x19?

Main reason is wanting a larger sweetspot. TC95 sweetspot is great but it doesn't feel right without lead at the sides for me which I don't like, and I've read that the TC97 doesn't require lead in those areas, more comfortable than the TC95. And I prefer to lead it at the top of the hoop rather than the sides since it personally feels better which is why I'd prefer the 97 > 95.

I used to have 330/305 TC90 and I have both 95 and 97 in almost identical specs. Not 330/305 but since the weight distribution in the head is identical whatever the final static weight, I think it's relevant.

I thought TC90 needs lead at 3/9 and so does 95 (personal preference, of course). TC97 (18x20 in my case) plays the best for me with no lead in the hoop.

Edit: TC97 feels the best no lead in the hoop. Performance wise I'd give a slight edge to 95 because of the inherent power (63RA).

Edit 2: TC97 18x20 with lead at 3/9 plays the best for me overall. That's how it is when a frame, with a little help of lead boost here and there, completely clicks with your game.
 
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Nick B.

New User
I put some lead in my TC90 (330/305) for a while, at 3 and 9, but then took it out. For me, the balance is perfect with no lead - easy swing, plenty of oomph through the ball, and very stable. Can't speak to any of the other models. I also don't find the TC90 sweetspot to be that small, but I do play with a multi/syngut hybrid strung pretty low (45lb). I don't think I've every been able to hit the ball harder, and keep it in the court with regularity.
 

scf

Semi-Pro
I had a local mixed tournament (fem pro/male amateur) yesterday and got ready my TC100 exactly just before. While waiting it to arrive I though I will avoid playing with it the tournaments until get some practice and adapt. But that day I couldn't resist and decided to try the Angell on warm up and continue to play if I feel comfortable and don't mishit etc. The strings I have ordered specially for TC haven't arrived yet so I've got it strung with what I had here. It was the weiss cannon explosive. The tension is 27/26kg. By the way, I have never seen a string which smells like this one. You can easily hear some chemical smell half meter away from it :D

So after the warm up I decided to go with TC. The string got to be crap for my game. Just after some hits the mains move and don't snap back. There were no notches (at least not such large you can notice visually) but the strings just stuck despite relatively high tension.

As I mentioned in the previous posts here before that day I played with PA/APD. TC100 felt kind of different which is not a surprise as in addition to being an Angell ;) it also has different the-first-you-look-at specs. It felt weightish (320g vs 300) but at the same time manoeuvrable and not pulling down with its head (probably due to being more HL - 308 vs 320). I warmed up a bit with my coach who is a tiny woman in her 40s. She got to try the TC for a couple of minutes and stated that despite being relatively heavy (she is using 270g frame) it doesn't feel so heavy to hand and swing. Everyone in the club including some coaches were looking at me with round eyes :eek: and asking "320g frame??? why??" :D The grip shape supposed to be bobolat-like but I think it differs a little bit in a good way for me. So it's more comfortable for me than babolats.

As I've read here that many play without a dampener I haven't even bothered to install it. I liked the sound from the ball hits and there was no even a hint of some jingle or irritating vibrations. Coming from APD I can't say the TC lacked the power. Maybe it's due to me improving the swing recently so I can hit strong and generate enough power myself. Nevertheless I'm satisfied with it. Will see how it feels when I string the silverstring. I will have a practice tomorrow and can't wait to use TC again, will maybe change with APD back and forth to note what changes I feel.

...And Justice Angells for All! :D
 
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J

joohan

Guest
Put lead at 3/9 countered at the bottom of the grip on my TC97 - around 16g in total. Yet to test in match play but after a drill/serve session all I have to say is WOW. Everything good remained but I gained more, way more angles on serve and groundies for some reason above everything else. Impressive.
 

ollinger

G.O.A.T.
Autism is a genetic condition. That post is just poor taste in humor.

lighten up, not really in bad taste. But interesting to note, speaking of autism and possibly tasteless humor, that a very prominent researcher into the genetics of autism is Simon Baron-Cohen, brother of Sascha Baron-Cohen.
 
J

joohan

Guest
lighten up, not really in bad taste. But interesting to note, speaking of autism and possibly tasteless humor, that a very prominent researcher into the genetics of autism is Simon Baron-Cohen, brother of Sascha Baron-Cohen.

No worries, I'm ok but if Simon Baron Cohen is not autistic himself, I don't really see your point.
 

andyN

Rookie
Hi Everyone
Im looking to get a TC-97 from Paul, and i've emailed him my questions below. While i wait for Paul's response, maybe someone can answer my questions.

A bit about my racket history. My current racket is the Babolat Pure Strike 2017 (11.4oz strung) , i like it but it’s a bit too harsh causing body ache after hitting. I do like the easy power its offer. I've hit with the Yonex Ai98 (11.5 oz strung) like it but i need some extra pop, also played with the Yonex DR 98 (11.5 oz strung), i didn’t like as much as the Ai98, still need extra pop.

Im interested in the TC-97 but I’m not sure if i could go for the 300g/325 (6pt HL) or the 310g/315 (9pt HL) version.
Im an all court player that enjoy the net so maneuverability is important.

Question: where on the racket do you add weight? is all the customization are the weights in the handle area?

Question: your handle pallet has lead/weight pins to install the weights ( i believe 4 holes in the pallet, 1 on top of the handle and 3 on the handle itself)
So if i got with the 310g version and its too heavy, can i take out the 10g weight pin in some configuration and make it the 310g version?

Can you explain where on the racket are the weights installed and how much is in the handle with the 310g version?

Anyone with experience with the 300g or the 310g version could share your experience.

Thx all
 

tribesmen

Professional
I believe every healthy man can handle a racquet 310-320g, plus Angells are thin beam and very maneuverable. My vote goes for 310g.
 

tribesmen

Professional
Lately I take little interest in leading the frames, I just buy 320-330g sticks with my preferred (approx.) balance and swingweight and play and enjoy the game. I am not a competitor.
 

ed70

Professional
Hi Everyone
Im looking to get a TC-97 from Paul, and i've emailed him my questions below. While i wait for Paul's response, maybe someone can answer my questions.

A bit about my racket history. My current racket is the Babolat Pure Strike 2017 (11.4oz strung) , i like it but it’s a bit too harsh causing body ache after hitting. I do like the easy power its offer. I've hit with the Yonex Ai98 (11.5 oz strung) like it but i need some extra pop, also played with the Yonex DR 98 (11.5 oz strung), i didn’t like as much as the Ai98, still need extra pop.

Im interested in the TC-97 but I’m not sure if i could go for the 300g/325 (6pt HL) or the 310g/315 (9pt HL) version.
Im an all court player that enjoy the net so maneuverability is important.

Question: where on the racket do you add weight? is all the customization are the weights in the handle area?

Question: your handle pallet has lead/weight pins to install the weights ( i believe 4 holes in the pallet, 1 on top of the handle and 3 on the handle itself)
So if i got with the 310g version and its too heavy, can i take out the 10g weight pin in some configuration and make it the 310g version?

Can you explain where on the racket are the weights installed and how much is in the handle with the 310g version?

Anyone with experience with the 300g or the 310g version could share your experience.

Thx all


The 300g 6hl will play and feel just as heavy as the 310g 9hl.

Ive hit with the Ai and Dr98's, nice frames.

Get the Tc97 310g 9hl 16x19 it will have a slightly higher SW to the yonex but swings faster due to the thinner beam, more power, better slice, better touch, similar control and stiffness rating too...also the angels got a nicer shaped head
 

zalive

Hall of Fame
Lately I take little interest in leading the frames, I just buy 320-330g sticks with my preferred (approx.) balance and swingweight and play and enjoy the game. I am not a competitor.

Yeah, but that's not basically different to getting sticks below your usual specs, then leading them up. In the end you end up with your preferred specs anyway.
What I like with lighter frames is control. I cannot take a 330 gram frame and change much. I don't have much control and influence on how it plays. My options are mostly limited to keep and sell, in this case.
I don't need to be a pro to want to have a bit of control and ability to change how my setup plays. I don't even have to be a very good rec player to want that.
 
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scf

Semi-Pro
Got my other package with accessories! A pack of overgrips, an absorbing lotion, and most important - some sets of silverstring and scorpion :) Will replace explosive as soon as it wears or breaks with silverstring.
 

ByakuFubuki

Semi-Pro
Yeah, but that's not basically different to getting sticks below your usual specs, then leading them up. In the end you end up with your preferred specs anyway.
What I like with lighter frames is control. I cannot take a 330 gram frame and change much. I don't have much control and influence on how it plays. My options are mostly limited to keep and sell, in this case.
I don't need to be a pro to want to have a bit of control and ability to change how my setup plays. I don't even have to be a very good rec player to want that.
Funny: personally I feel more in control with a heavier frame (from the Baseline at least), as it makes it easier for me to keep the ball deep even if I want to play it spinnier or drain all the weight off it. To each their own, I guess.

By the way I don't see what's so wrong about amateurs wanting the gear they feel is more suited to their game. Anyone wants to either win or have a good time (possibly both, of course), so it's normal we want all the possible advantages with that. The wrong way to see it, in my opinion, is thinking a different gear will improve our game making the job in our place or -even much worse- thinking "I want my favourite player's Racquet/Specs/Whatever to play like him/her".
 

Lord Anomander

Professional
Funny: personally I feel more in control with a heavier frame (from the Baseline at least), as it makes it easier for me to keep the ball deep even if I want to play it spinnier or drain all the weight off it. To each their own, I guess.

I think zalive was not talking about control on the court, but off-court, i.e. customization. He has no control over what happens with his frame if he goes to heavy from the beginning.

I'm really customization lazy though, so I try to get my preferred specs when buying the stick. :D
 

ByakuFubuki

Semi-Pro
I think zalive was not talking about control on the court, but off-court, i.e. customization. He has no control over what happens with his frame if he goes to heavy from the beginning.

I'm really customization lazy though, so I try to get my preferred specs when buying the stick. :D
... I should really learn to read Posts a third time, shouldn't I?

The second time I read it looked to me like he stopped referring to that kind of control after the first line for some reason. On that point I agree, though: even if I'd prefer getting a frame as I like it from the beginning (it feels somewhat more stable, plus it happened to me to lose lead while hitting), that is something you cannot be guaranteed just by looking at numbers, so better ten grams too light than ten grams too heavy.
 

Nick B.

New User
Following up on my string experiments for the TC90 - I last had ISO Enegertic 16 in the mains with OGSM 17 in crosses (45lb/45lb), and really liked that setup. Lots of power, I thought, and great feel. But, for some reason, being a compulsive tinkerer, I guess, I ordered up some Forten Thin Blend (18g Kevlar/17g Forten Sweet), and I tried that out yesterday, with with the kevlar at 40lb and the crosses at 45. Never played with Kevlar before, but I really thought it was excellent. Nowhere near as much easy power, but I could still hit pretty hard, and the both the spin and control were excellent - so accurate. I was getting a lot more dive on the ball with topspin shots, and much more movement with my slice/kick serves (nothing to write home about in either category, but that's just because I don't have a great slice or kick...). Slice backhands were also some of the best I've hit. In terms of comfort, I found it very nice - not harsh, just super firm. The TC90/Angell/foam core sweetness takes care of that.

Only downside is the stickiness of the kevlar on the syngut crosses - strings move and are hard to get back. So, I cut out the crosses and put in some Ashaway Monogut ZX 16 at 45lb, and will see how that plays. based on bouncing it around in the living room, I think it might have too much power! We'll see, may have to up the tension a bit for the next round.
 

Nick B.

New User
I noticed today when I was swinging my TC90 around that there appears to be something loose rattling inside the frame. If I hold it with the head up, and then turn it so the head is down (180 degrees), there's a kind of rainstick sort of sound (much less pronounced of course - like one piece of something bouncing down inside the frame) that goes on. Anyone else have something like that happen? I'm assuming it's not a big deal, just a bit surprised to hear that given the fully foam core.
 

tennistomcat

Semi-Pro
Hi Everyone
Im looking to get a TC-97 from Paul, and i've emailed him my questions below. While i wait for Paul's response, maybe someone can answer my questions.

A bit about my racket history. My current racket is the Babolat Pure Strike 2017 (11.4oz strung) , i like it but it’s a bit too harsh causing body ache after hitting. I do like the easy power its offer. I've hit with the Yonex Ai98 (11.5 oz strung) like it but i need some extra pop, also played with the Yonex DR 98 (11.5 oz strung), i didn’t like as much as the Ai98, still need extra pop.

Im interested in the TC-97 but I’m not sure if i could go for the 300g/325 (6pt HL) or the 310g/315 (9pt HL) version.
Im an all court player that enjoy the net so maneuverability is important.

Question: where on the racket do you add weight? is all the customization are the weights in the handle area?

Question: your handle pallet has lead/weight pins to install the weights ( i believe 4 holes in the pallet, 1 on top of the handle and 3 on the handle itself)
So if i got with the 310g version and its too heavy, can i take out the 10g weight pin in some configuration and make it the 310g version?

Can you explain where on the racket are the weights installed and how much is in the handle with the 310g version?

Anyone with experience with the 300g or the 310g version could share your experience.

Thx all

Are you going for the 16X19 or 18X20? if 16X19, I have some thoughts & can compare to the PS P17 (playtest version)

I think the 300 gm/ 6 pts HL will end up being closer to your usual spec range (same as mine). I had the 310 gm version & it felt underpowered for my game at those specs & I don't like it heavier than 332 gm with all the accessories.
I took out a 10 gm slug & the racket felt better but had a flexy dead spot in the upper hoop. I added 2 gm at 12 o'clock & the racket felt just right - I would still be using it today if I hadn't developed a twinge in my elbow when serving hard. I had not had any elbow issues in years & got spooked & sold the racket. I regret not working with it a little more to see if I could sort it out.

I like it better than the Pure Strike because it felt more solid & less harsh (babolats always have this harsh, hollow feel). The TC97 had greater access to spin & hit with a little more arc - the PS seemed to hit like an 18X20 due to it's dense pattern in the center. The TC97 just felt better overall & crushed the serve.

If you don't feel like ripping apart the pallet to pull out 10 gm of lead, I think it may be easier to pick up the 300 gm version & add lead strips to the pallet under the grip if you want to bump up the weight.

If you plan on adding 8+ gm of lead (too much lead may increase the grip size, it may be best to get the 310 gm in this case.
 

Lord Anomander

Professional
It's kind of off-topic, but I was wondering how durable Halo is. I'm looking for an alternative to gut/poly in humid conditions. Soon we start playing outside on clay and there are always a few days where it will be rainy the day before or even a few hours before play. So I expect gut to suffer quite a lot if I use it on these days.

Had my second hit with the TC100 yesterday and I really love it. It feels as stable as my Ai100, but I feel the ball much better, which helps a lot with volleys and dropshots, but also with groundstrokes in general. I still have to measure it's swingweight, but it swings through the air easily and didn't tire me in the two hours I played. The transition from the Yonex to the Angell wasn't a problem at all, despite their different head shapes. I still shank a couple of balls, but overall there are even less mishits now. :D
 

ed70

Professional
I noticed today when I was swinging my TC90 around that there appears to be something loose rattling inside the frame. If I hold it with the head up, and then turn it so the head is down (180 degrees), there's a kind of rainstick sort of sound (much less pronounced of course - like one piece of something bouncing down inside the frame) that goes on. Anyone else have something like that happen? I'm assuming it's not a big deal, just a bit surprised to hear that given the fully foam core.

Can't say i have, but it Would irritate the hell out of me!
 

Georgo

New User
I noticed today when I was swinging my TC90 around that there appears to be something loose rattling inside the frame. If I hold it with the head up, and then turn it so the head is down (180 degrees), there's a kind of rainstick sort of sound (much less pronounced of course - like one piece of something bouncing down inside the frame) that goes on. Anyone else have something like that happen? I'm assuming it's not a big deal, just a bit surprised to hear that given the fully foam core.
Have you contacted Paul regarding that?
 

CosmosMpower

Hall of Fame
It's kind of off-topic, but I was wondering how durable Halo is. I'm looking for an alternative to gut/poly in humid conditions. Soon we start playing outside on clay and there are always a few days where it will be rainy the day before or even a few hours before play. So I expect gut to suffer quite a lot if I use it on these days.

Had my second hit with the TC100 yesterday and I really love it. It feels as stable as my Ai100, but I feel the ball much better, which helps a lot with volleys and dropshots, but also with groundstrokes in general. I still have to measure it's swingweight, but it swings through the air easily and didn't tire me in the two hours I played. The transition from the Yonex to the Angell wasn't a problem at all, despite their different head shapes. I still shank a couple of balls, but overall there are even less mishits now. :D

I don't think it's weather sensitive like NG but it's not that durable. I broke a set in about 10 hours and I NEVER break strings. The crosses sawed through the mains and 3 main strings broke at once.
 

scf

Semi-Pro
I guess ultracable is the most durable poly, it haven't notched itself for two month of usage. Too bad it breaks the angellic grommets :(
 

realplayer

Semi-Pro
Yes, I did and it makes sense why my 95 would be a bit lower then your 100. Keep in mind, 1 gram of lead @12 changes SW by 6 points ;) so it doesn't take much to effect SW

Don't exaggerate. 1 gram at @12 changes the SW by 3 points. BTW, my tc95, 63 has a SW of 285.
 

topspn

Legend
Question on 16g poly vs 17g poly on say a 95 Head size. What is a good guide on difference that makes to SW?
 

SpinToWin

Talk Tennis Guru
5 or 6 pts if the 1g is at 12 o'clock.
I've added weight to 12 repeatedly and it hasn't added 5-6 units per gram on a standard length frame. If I use the TWU customisation tool, it also isn't 5-6 units, it's the very first time I hear that figure mentioned.
 

sma1001

Hall of Fame
I can't vouch for the accuracy of that method as ive never used it. 1g at 12 o'clock will change the value on an RDC by 5 or 6pts

That is interesting. I'd always understood it was 3 points for 1 gram. I must check that using the app i have (accepting always that is not as accurate as an RDC).
 

Lord Anomander

Professional
Yes, I did and it makes sense why my 95 would be a bit lower then your 100. Keep in mind, 1 gram of lead @12 changes SW by 6 points ;) so it doesn't take much to effect SW

Yeah, I get it that this are very small changes that result in an obviously big SW change. But, to be honest, I don't know the perfect SW for me. The most important thing is that the racquet feels maneuverable and quick through the air, without losing any stability. That's the case with my TC100 and I'm pretty sure I will order my second one soon. :s

BTW, my tc95, 63 has a SW of 285.

Wow, that is really low. What balance/weight did you choose? I think your stick would be too quick through the air for my taste :D

The two girls I usually play mixed doubles with had quite different opinions though. The one who plays with a 300g head stick said it feels really light and the other one, who probably uses a 270g Wilson (at least her shots are as heavy as if she'd use one :p) said it's heavy.
 

realplayer

Semi-Pro
Yeah, I get it that this are very small changes that result in an obviously big SW change. But, to be honest, I don't know the perfect SW for me. The most important thing is that the racquet feels maneuverable and quick through the air, without losing any stability. That's the case with my TC100 and I'm pretty sure I will order my second one soon. :s



Wow, that is really low. What balance/weight did you choose? I think your stick would be too quick through the air for my taste :D

The two girls I usually play mixed doubles with had quite different opinions though. The one who plays with a 300g head stick said it feels really light and the other one, who probably uses a 270g Wilson (at least her shots are as heavy as if she'd use one :p) said it's heavy.

The weight or balance of the racket has no influence on swingweight. I just asked for a low swingweight and that's what I got. It seems I like specs that are not easy to find so I have to be patient before there is something that suits me.
 

andyN

Rookie
can someone please post an overlay of the 97 and 100... i want to compare how big is the difference.
I've switched to the 1hander and the smaller head size tends to be better and more accurate on the 1Hander.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
That is interesting. I'd always understood it was 3 points for 1 gram. I must check that using the app i have (accepting always that is not as accurate as an RDC).

I agree with Paul. I leaded up a Yonex at 12 and assumed 3 pts per gram. Well the SW was much higher on an RDC - in line with his 6 pts per 1 gram.
 

Ft.S

Semi-Pro
It's kind of off-topic, but I was wondering how durable Halo is. I'm looking for an alternative to gut/poly in humid conditions.
I find Halo to be very durable. I use it often as a substitute (due to price difference) for my gut/poly hybrid, mainly because the feel and playability are close; Halo lacks power compared to such a hybrid, but switch between two string setups does not negatively effect my game.

Several of my customers also use full-bed Halo and some of them successfully continue to use it for nearly 3 months at 4.0 and 4.5 levels, and they keep asking for it. I tend to change quickly, so I only go for about 10-12 hours of play. My hybrid combination lasts 4-5 hours, so I'd say Halo is durable.
 
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