The Official Angell Users Club

[haqq777]

Try Max Power by Kirschbaum! Loved it even more than RSLyon. And yes the grommets are the angells weak spot imo.

Yeah so far RsLyon has been the clear favorite but I plan to try max power some time... thing is I havent dropped a set in over a month!!! ...and that keeps me from wanting to change anything

That said my main hitting partner (understandably sick of my winning streak) is trying out RSLyon with forten sweet as a cross. After about 12 hours the full bed of RSlyon was done for him in his tc100 and he wasnt getting pop on his serves. He was missing that and is trying a hybrid. I think a cross of scorpion might be interesting and Yonex Poly tour pro should be good too.

Yeah I wouldn't want to change anything if I was on a winning streak too. What level do you play at? I'm a 5.0 and must admit, with the kind and level of people I hit with, winning streaks (and that too for a month) are a rarity and very hard to come by. Some of the younger guys I have hit with have played Futures and train all over and are even ranked. Some are very promising juniors. I beat a former Blue Chip not too long ago in a tough 3 setter and I think he's going to win big at college. Monster serve and he used a sub 300g strung Babolat Aeropro Lite bone stock (I know!)

Coming back to topic, for RS Lyon the playability of twelve hours is actually more than I get. I get about 10 hours after which I can tell the string is done. RS Lyon was no different in that regard and pretty standard as polys do not last me longer than that. I did try YPTP and while it wad good, not nearly as comfortable as full bed RS Lyon.

Thanks for the idea for Kirschbaum Maxpower and WC Scorpion. That sounds very intriguing. I'll try them both full bed next. I was a big fan of B5E from WC for a long time. I wonder how that would play too. Guess there is a ton of experimenting to do.

Cheers.

 

[Deleted member 742196]

Hey! Ho! Yay!

I've made the conversion to the TC95. I did it. Ye-haw! The journey took it's usual detour.

• December PS85
• January PS90
• February ~ March flirting with the TC97, but hadn't quite let go of the PS90.
• April hard choice took my beloved PS90 for the annual sojourn to Slovenia.
• June picked up a PS95 6.1 25th anniversary edition and moved to it full time. Instant love.
• July popped by Taiwan to grab the TC95 that's been sitting at the office for 7-8 months.
• July end Toronto: fully immersed in the TC95. The guys on this forum are correct, it's a great all around stick.
• July 30th I'm wondering if I ought to add a bit of weight to the thing. Where? and more importantly, why?

I'm here now. Over my lust for the classic mids. In my heart I knew I didn't love the PS90 quite as much as the 85, but stubbornly held the course to transition to a larger frame.

Thankfully the PS95 6.1 25th anniversary happened to come along. If I hadn't been hitting with that wonderful frame for a few months I doubt I'd have found my way to the TC95.

 

[joohan]

Hello friends,

So I have been playing around with strings in all of my Custom TC100s lately. So far I have found the firmer copolys to really complement my 70 RA TC100 a lot. Have been ripping the fuzz off balls using Volkl Cyclone and RPM Blast with lovely spin and control. Have had atleast half a dozen string jobs between both my firmer TC100s and loving the combo.

I have also found that both my softer TC100s are more string sensitive and type+tension really changes the way those sticks plays. More than their firmer counterparts actually.

Finally, after using a bunch of strings, best copoly so far has been RS Lyon, hands down. Have used varied tensions and 48-50lbs mark takes the cake. I have used Tourbite, Silverstring, Hyper-G, Cyclone, Red Code and a few others. Also playtested the new Laserfibre Native Tour 17 in it and it was meh. Did you have any similar experience gentlemen? Thoughts? @topspn @Backhanded Compliment @joohan

Also, is it just me or do the usual grommets start deshaping just after 3-4 string jobs? Much softer than most other brands in my limited experience so far.

Cheers!

I'd add Yonex Poly Tour Spin to the mix, at least for the 63RA option. I've not yet experimented with strings in my TC100. I will be getting another one soon, though, and I'll do proper string testing.

 

[topspn]

Hello friends,

So I have been playing around with strings in all of my Custom TC100s lately. So far I have found the firmer copolys to really complement my 70 RA TC100 a lot. Have been ripping the fuzz off balls using Volkl Cyclone and RPM Blast with lovely spin and control. Have had atleast half a dozen string jobs between both my firmer TC100s and loving the combo.

I have also found that both my softer TC100s are more string sensitive and type+tension really changes the way those sticks plays. More than their firmer counterparts actually.

Finally, after using a bunch of strings, best copoly so far has been RS Lyon, hands down. Have used varied tensions and 48-50lbs mark takes the cake. I have used Tourbite, Silverstring, Hyper-G, Cyclone, Red Code and a few others. Also playtested the new Laserfibre Native Tour 17 in it and it was meh. Did you have any similar experience gentlemen? Thoughts? @topspn @Backhanded Compliment @joohan

Also, is it just me or do the usual grommets start deshaping just after 3-4 string jobs? Much softer than most other brands in my limited experience so far.

Cheers!

Yeah, that is pretty spot on. My favorite strings in 70 RA were in fact crisp a bit firmer. RPM does top my list and you can rip the ball comfortably and produce monster serves with some wonderful kick. I put RPM in the 63RA and wanted to cut it out in the first 20 minutes. It was totally brittle in the 63RA. Once again, I agree especially in the TC100 63RA that RS Lyon compliments the feel as well as temper some power, its good combination. I also tried Halo 2 and T1 firewire. The T1 string is a no go, comfortable feel but so out of control. Halo2 liked more and spin potential was very good. It broke in the first 2 hours though and did have a bit more power then i wanted. Interestingly, Halo 2 was pretty good in TC95 63RA @45lbs. What else works well in TC100 63ra? Yonex PTF 1.25 @48lbs, head hawk and YTEX square-x. I liked MP rough on my first hit then it turned mushy and I really dislike mushy feel. I have never tried with round MP and people say they play different.

 

[haqq777]

Yeah, that is pretty spot on. My favorite strings in 70 RA were in fact crisp a bit firmer. RPM does top my list and you can rip the ball comfortably and produce monster serves with some wonderful kick. I put RPM in the 63RA and wanted to cut it out in the first 20 minutes. It was totally brittle in the 63RA. Once again, I agree especially in the TC100 63RA that RS Lyon compliments the feel as well as temper some power, its good combination. I also tried Halo 2 and T1 firewire. The T1 string is a no go, comfortable feel but so out of control. Halo2 liked more and spin potential was very good. It broke in the first 2 hours though and did have a bit more power then i wanted. Interestingly, Halo 2 was pretty good in TC95 63RA @45lbs. What else works well in TC100 63ra? Yonex PTF 1.25 @48lbs, head hawk and YTEX square-x. I liked MP rough on my first hit then it turned mushy and I really dislike mushy feel. I have never tried with round MP and people say they play different.

Excellent, thanks for the feedback. I am intrigued with both Halo 2 and Max Power. Have never used Halo line before so not sure what are the characteristics it entails. Have played with MP and MP rough both but not in these frames so will be interesting. Next on my list whenever I find time. Will definitely share experience here.

 

[topspn]

Excellent, thanks for the feedback. I am intrigued with both Halo 2 and Max Power. Have never used Halo line before so not sure what are the characteristics it entails. Have played with MP and MP rough both but not in these frames so will be interesting. Next on my list whenever I find time. Will definitely share experience here.

Only played Halo2 in the line. One string job in TC100 63RA and another in TC95 63RA. Crisp string with excellent comfort so no plasticky or mushy feel. Grabs the ball well and spin potential is high. Love it on serves with banana spins and kick serves are huge. A bit too much power on the TC100 ground strokes but I will be trying it again and taking it down to 48lbs instead of the 52lbs. I know this may not make sense but I am finding that playability of these frames and how well polys perform is best on lower tensions so even control gets a bit better.

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

Yeah I wouldn't want to change anything if I was on a winning streak too. What level do you play at? I'm a 5.0 and must admit, with the kind and level of people I hit with, winning streaks (and that too for a month) are a rarity and very hard to come by. Some of the younger guys I have hit with have played Futures and train all over and are even ranked. Some are very promising juniors. I beat a former Blue Chip not too long ago in a tough 3 setter and I think he's going to win big at college. Monster serve and he used a sub 300g strung Babolat Aeropro Lite bone stock (I know!)

Coming back to topic, for RS Lyon the playability of twelve hours is actually more than I get. I get about 10 hours after which I can tell the string is done. RS Lyon was no different in that regard and pretty standard as polys do not last me longer than that. I did try YPTP and while it wad good, not nearly as comfortable as full bed RS Lyon.

Thanks for the idea for Kirschbaum Maxpower and WC Scorpion. That sounds very intriguing. I'll try them both full bed next. I was a big fan of B5E from WC for a long time. I wonder how that would play too. Guess there is a ton of experimenting to do.

Cheers.

Consider yonex poly tour pro as well as max power and scorpion (as a cross... I find it too powerful in an Angell but in a prestige MP I loved it).

tough to assign my level, I train and play quality players but tennis is not about winning anymore, Ive hit with very strong players a lot. Myself Im former college player, got injured... quit for 16 years. Came back after hitting with a futures player and retooled my game for poly strings (switched from eastern FH to semiwestern and changed my serves). I hit a lot with a former teaching pro and WTA hitting partner from SF who played for Andover too (who is younger than me)and am currently destroying his game... others I hit with are nationally ranked 50+ players (im late 40s)... just not losing to any of em and I play twice a week. Im a streaky player with an artistic flare.... Guga meets Stan but grew up with Edberg and Lendl but would rather lose playing the way I want to than win ugly. Likely playing the best tennis of my life if I average all the matches this month... I havent truly zoned out in over a year so I can play "better" but a 7 match winning steak is very rare for me too... much less without dropping a set. My biggest enemy is my own brain (over thinking) or not getting enough sleep, I often am staying up late as a writer. Basically, Im a fun player to watch or play... I dont do boring... I can hit those Edberg running topspin backhands for dtl and crosscourt winners... I swear my hitting partners sometimes try to take me out wide just to see those. That's my attitude... I love playing with players better than me like futures or former 6.0 #1 DI women because they give me clean balls and no junk.

 

[haqq777]

Consider yonex poly tour pro as well as max power and scorpion (as a cross... I find it too powerful in an Angell but in a prestige MP I loved it).

tough to assign my level, I train and play quality players but tennis is not about winning anymore, Ive hit with very strong players a lot. Myself Im former college player, got injured... quit for 16 years. Came back after hitting with a futures player and retooled my game for poly strings (switched from eastern FH to semiwestern and changed my serves). I hit a lot with a former teaching pro and WTA hitting partner from SF who played for Andover too (who is younger than me)and am currently destroying his game... others I hit with are nationally ranked 50+ players (im late 40s)... just not losing to any of em and I play twice a week. Im a streaky player with an artistic flare.... Guga meets Stan but grew up with Edberg and Lendl but would rather lose playing the way I want to than win ugly. Likely playing the best tennis of my life if I average all the matches this month... I havent truly zoned out in over a year so I can play "better" but a 7 match winning steak is very rare for me too... much less without dropping a set. My biggest enemy is my own brain (over thinking) or not getting enough sleep, I often am staying up late as a writer. Basically, Im a fun player to watch or play... I dont do boring... I can hit those Edberg running topspin backhands for dtl and crosscourt winners... I swear my hitting partners sometimes try to take me out wide just to see those. That's my attitude... I love playing with players better than me like futures or former 6.0 #1 DI women because they give me clean balls and no junk.

Wonderful! And very intrigued, really. Would like to see a video of you hitting if possible? Our coach always made us play with his contacts who had played at high level tournaments and atleast had ITF ranking points just because some of the positives start to reflect in your own game in one way or the other. I'm a former college player as well, 34 yo, played 3 years of Div college on full ride and graduated (got my undergrad in 05). I still remember Isner was making waves at that time, was named All American and the SEC freshman of the year.

Anyway, I digress. Completely see your point about playing with clean, consistent hitters. Boosts my own game as well.

Good luck with your writing endeavors too. Beautiful feeling when you get published. I do a little bit of writing myself. Started as side hobby for my HS newsletter and stuck with me till date. Really helped later on with my dissertation when my peers were learning APA and I was already killing it.

Hope to continue seeing your contributions here in the future!

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

Wonderful! And very intrigued, really. Would like to see a video of you hitting if possible? Our coach always made us play with his contacts who had played at high level tournaments and atleast had ITF ranking points just because some of the positives start to reflect in your own game in one way or the other. I'm a former college player as well, 34 yo, played 3 years of Div college on full ride and graduated (got my undergrad in 05). I still remember Isner was making waves at that time, was named All American and the SEC freshman of the year.

Anyway, I digress. Completely see your point about playing with clean, consistent hitters. Boosts my own game as well.

Good luck with your writing endeavors too. Beautiful feeling when you get published. I do a little bit of writing myself. Started as side hobby for my HS newsletter and stuck with me till date. Really helped later on with my dissertation when my peers were learning APA and I was already killing it.

Hope to continue seeing your contributions here in the future!

Oh thanks... I only played div3 (in the 90's) but poly strings in many ways weaponized parts of my game in interesting ways (backhand and returns especially). Its been a while sice Ive done video... last time was a few years ago and it was interesting though Im unlikely to share anything publicly... Im a professional writer but thats just part of what I do and since im very much in the public eye where I live I try to keep my fun time (tennis anonymous). Still I am curious about video... my hitting partners have mentioned how well Im moving and it would be interesting to see the difference (Im certainly jumping rope better). Also my last video was when I was hitting with the Pacific X Feel pro 95 (about the most demanding 95 there is) and Im curious how Ive changed since switching to the Angell TC95. Certainly I play a more relaxed game and Im not at the net quite as much.... Ive been with the TC95 for a year and a half now and I enjoy the higher # of free points on serve... part of getting older is the efficiency on service games becomes more important.

All that said my winning streak is perhaps more because 2 out of my 3 main hitting partners are having a slump... Im playing tomorrow Ill see how it goes... Im still not feeling super competitive about it... I just want some interesting, memorable points ... lately there have been some that use almost every inch of the court. In an era of mostly pure baseline tennis that interests me.

Mostly my change to the TC95 asked me to learn how to use that super heavy rally ball the Tc95 hits... it just kind of explodes off the court even when Im only hitting at 75% power... especially the backhand.

Hey! Ho! Yay!

I've made the conversion to the TC95. I did it. Ye-haw! The journey took it's usual detour.

• December PS85
• January PS90
• February ~ March flirting with the TC97, but hadn't quite let go of the PS90.
• April hard choice took my beloved PS90 for the annual sojourn to Slovenia.
• June picked up a PS95 6.1 25th anniversary edition and moved to it full time. Instant love.
• July popped by Taiwan to grab the TC95 that's been sitting at the office for 7-8 months.
• July end Toronto: fully immersed in the TC95. The guys on this forum are correct, it's a great all around stick.
• July 30th I'm wondering if I ought to add a bit of weight to the thing. Where? and more importantly, why?

I'm here now. Over my lust for the classic mids. In my heart I knew I didn't love the PS90 quite as much as the 85, but stubbornly held the course to transition to a larger frame.

Thankfully the PS95 6.1 25th anniversary happened to come along. If I hadn't been hitting with that wonderful frame for a few months I doubt I'd have found my way to the TC95.

Yee haw... yeah the TC95 is a beast. It doesnt play like a mid but it has its own thing "Heaviness" dang if it doesnt hit like a ton of bricks for groundstrokes, returns and serves. just, just... fun. It plays like its made of testosterone... no low T tennis with that thing.

 

[beltsman]

Sigh, lost a tough 3 hour match today 3-6 6-4 6-4 with my TC100. I was using my full Hyper-G setup and played well for the first half of the match, but really faltered towards the end. The last few games I was spraying my FH wildly, usually my most consistent weapon. The strings started spongy and felt completely loose by the end. I'll have to check the tension. I know they started spongy but wow I had zero control by the end of the match. My own stringing job, so my own fault.

Looking forward to trying this out with natural gut mains and round poly crosses. Two consistent factors with my full Hyper-G setup: not enough power, and inconsistent ball response. I'm hoping to solve both.

Edit: Thinking about this match, so frustrating. In the first game of the second set I had a break point. Bossed the point and approached on a well-hit CC FH that took him deep off the court. He his a desperation lob that I thought landed out, in fact I'm 85% sure of it, but it was close so I called it good. He went on to save a few BP more that game and hold.

Later, I got the break I wanted to put me up 3*-2 after about 5 BP attempts (finally got it on a beautiful running FH lob), but I promptly donated the break back to put us on serve 3-3*. I then imploded for a few games and got broken again to make it 3-5*, with him serving for the set. I pulled out another break, barely, after saving a few set points to get back on serve 4*-5. Then of course I promptly got broken again to lose the set on a FH DTL a foot wide.

Third set, we were neck and neck. I managed to get maybe 4 BP chances but missed all of them. Then, towards the end, my FH began to spray and there was nothing I could do but watch it slip away.

Fun fact: I didn't miss a single topspin BH the entire match. I should have hit it more, but I sliced way too much and ran around to hit FHs - which is fine, until my FH turned into hot garbage.

 

[Tordne]

I currently have a TC97 18x20 320g/315mm in my collection but have been playing a bunch of other frames lately. I'm having a little arm sensitivity and the Angell has come back on my radar. Being a tight pattern I'm just struggling a little with the lower launch angel. So, I'm considering getting a TC100 to audition for the bag.

I'm hoping people here might be able to answer a few questions/considerations I have:
1) Comparison of the power level of the TC100 63RA (ideally 320g/310mm spec) to the Babolat Pure Strike (ProjectOne7)?
2) Thoughts on power, comfort etc. of the TC100 63RA vs. 70RA?
3) I've read a ton of comments about the TC95 63RA being a "serve monster". So I'm kinda thinking, seeing as 5sqin is pretty minimal, that might be a better option. So how do people think pace of serve compares between the TC100 63RA and the TC95 63RA?

Thanks heaps for your input.

 

[topspn]

I currently have a TC97 18x20 320g/315mm in my collection but have been playing a bunch of other frames lately. I'm having a little arm sensitivity and the Angell has come back on my radar. Being a tight pattern I'm just struggling a little with the lower launch angel. So, I'm considering getting a TC100 to audition for the bag.

I'm hoping people here might be able to answer a few questions/considerations I have:
1) Comparison of the power level of the TC100 63RA (ideally 320g/310mm spec) to the Babolat Pure Strike (ProjectOne7)?
2) Thoughts on power, comfort etc. of the TC100 63RA vs. 70RA?
3) I've read a ton of comments about the TC95 63RA being a "serve monster". So I'm kinda thinking, seeing as 5sqin is pretty minimal, that might be a better option. So how do people think pace of serve compares between the TC100 63RA and the TC95 63RA?

Thanks heaps for your input.

Have you tried playing at a much lower tension with your current TC97? Perhaps it is worth trying before you spend money so just a suggestion.

1. Project one7 is very easy to swing and generate power. TC100 will ask you to use technique but also tons of power. The one7 is easier to generate power but both have plenty of power. TC100 will generate a much heavier ball.
2. TC100 63RA power is more. They are both extremely comfortable. The 63 RA has better touch, a better volley stick and bigger serves and not because the 70RA is a slouch by any means
3. TC95 is a serve monster and TC100 is an even bigger monster. And they both produce addictive kick, twist, etc.

 

[Hoosh]

Sigh, lost a tough 3 hour match today 3-6 6-4 6-4 with my TC100. I was using my full Hyper-G setup and played well for the first half of the match, but really faltered towards the end. The last few games I was spraying my FH wildly, usually my most consistent weapon. The strings started spongy and felt completely loose by the end. I'll have to check the tension. I know they started spongy but wow I had zero control by the end of the match. My own stringing job, so my own fault.

Looking forward to trying this out with natural gut mains and round poly crosses. Two consistent factors with my full Hyper-G setup: not enough power, and inconsistent ball response. I'm hoping to solve both.

Edit: Thinking about this match, so frustrating. In the first game of the second set I had a break point. Bossed the point and approached on a well-hit CC FH that took him deep off the court. He his a desperation lob that I thought landed out, in fact I'm 85% sure of it, but it was close so I called it good. He went on to save a few BP more that game and hold.

Later, I got the break I wanted to put me up 3*-2 after about 5 BP attempts (finally got it on a beautiful running FH lob), but I promptly donated the break back to put us on serve 3-3*. I then imploded for a few games and got broken again to make it 3-5*, with him serving for the set. I pulled out another break, barely, after saving a few set points to get back on serve 4*-5. Then of course I promptly got broken again to lose the set on a FH DTL a foot wide.

Third set, we were neck and neck. I managed to get maybe 4 BP chances but missed all of them. Then, towards the end, my FH began to spray and there was nothing I could do but watch it slip away.

Fun fact: I didn't miss a single topspin BH the entire match. I should have hit it more, but I sliced way too much and ran around to hit FHs - which is fine, until my FH turned into hot garbage.

That stinks, sounds like a hard fought loss

FWIW, I play a heavy topspin game and since the acquisition of tennis elbow, I've had great success with Babolot Tonic +ball feel mains and Monogut ZX crosses. I am still experimenting with tension on my TC95, but in a DR98 and a prince 100p, 52m x 54 crosses played nice. Gamma glide made a nice cross too, but I liked the feel of the Ashaway Monogut ZX better.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Tordne]

Have you tried playing at a much lower tension with your current TC97? Perhaps it is worth trying before you spend money so just a suggestion.

1. Project one7 is very easy to swing and generate power. TC100 will ask you to use technique but also tons of power. The one7 is easier to generate power but both have plenty of power. TC100 will generate a much heavier ball.
2. TC100 63RA power is more. They are both extremely comfortable. The 63 RA has better touch, a better volley stick and bigger serves and not because the 70RA is a slouch by any means
3. TC95 is a serve monster and TC100 is an even bigger monster. And they both produce addictive kick, twist, etc.

Thanks very much for your feedback!

If the TC100 63RA is even close to the power of the Strike then it's totally an option. I can generate my own pace no problem, just a racket like the Strike gives me the ability to be more creative under pressure. Sounds like the TC100 63RA will be the same.

Any other contributors?

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

Thanks very much for your feedback!

If the TC100 63RA is even close to the power of the Strike then it's totally an option. I can generate my own pace no problem, just a racket like the Strike gives me the ability to be more creative under pressure. Sounds like the TC100 63RA will be the same.

Any other contributors?

it definitely is abd the thin beam is really nice and I can confirm it hits a very heavy ball... it's an all-time great serving stick

My streak is over... played my 8th match this month today... couldn't extend my winning streak to eight though. I just came out flat today. Perhaps it's also a sign that I've come to terms with my grief as well... it did give me unusual amounts of focus, like a wall, today i was more like a picket fence... lol. Also it was very hot and I suspect we had we played more than just tge one set I would have come out on top. That one set was determined by four forehands that I put into the net or long... usually between matches I do some serve practice and hit against the wall with dead balls. Didn't do that this time and I think it made a difference on my forehands with no pace and no man's land... the dead ball practice really helps.

that said I think my partner's combination of RS Lyon string crossed with Forten sweet for my worked out really well... he was able to bleed off pace and hit no man's Landers to my forehands in those crucial points and it returned a lot better for him as well. He added more weight as well I think he's at 12.8 now I'm playing at 12.7oz. That hybrid combo really helps his flatter hitting and lobs in particular... he doesn't hit a lot of topspin on his lobs they're mostly flat and he has fantastic hands so yes the tc100 does really work for a player with much more classic strokes. overall I don't think he likes full poly jobs he just has really classic strokes

 

[Tordne]

it definitely is abd the thin beam is really nice and I can confirm it hits a very heavy ball... it's an all-time great serving stick

My streak is over... played my 8th match this month today... couldn't extend my winning streak to eight though. I just came out flat today. Perhaps it's also a sign that I've come to terms with my grief as well... it did give me unusual amounts of focus, like a wall, today i was more like a picket fence... lol. Also it was very hot and I suspect we had we played more than just tge one set I would have come out on top. That one set was determined by four forehands that I put into the net or long... usually between matches I do some serve practice and hit against the wall with dead balls. Didn't do that this time and I think it made a difference on my forehands with no pace and no man's land... the dead ball practice really helps.

that said I think my partner's combination of RS Lyon string crossed with Forten sweet for my worked out really well... he was able to bleed off pace and hit no man's Landers to my forehands in those crucial points and it returned a lot better for him as well. He added more weight as well I think he's at 12.8 now I'm playing at 12.7oz. That hybrid combo really helps his flatter hitting and lobs in particular... he doesn't hit a lot of topspin on his lobs they're mostly flat and he has fantastic hands so yes the tc100 does really work for a player with much more classic strokes. overall I don't think he likes full poly jobs he just has really classic strokes

I've been playing a lot as well lately. 6 of 7 days last week, and generally at least 4 times a week LOL. I play with a decent amount of topspin, no Nadal, but (according to my opponents anyway) enough to cause problems. The lower flex sounds like a good idea for long term arm health. I've been playing with a weighted up Prince Phantom the last couple of weeks and that seems to be helping. But that stick is just a little low powered - added 20 grams to get the mass up to where it's giving me what I need.

String wise I'm using Babolat Xcel French Open right now. I think that's a high quality multi and delivers more spin that Technifibre NRG2 (as a direct comparison). For summer I have 11 sets of Babolat VS Touch for the deserving racket

How would you compare the Angell synthetic grip quality, to something like the Babolat Syntec Pro, or Head HydroSorb Pro? I got the leather on my TC97 and it is no where near as nice as the Head or Prince Calfskins. So thinking of going synthetic this time around.

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

I've been playing a lot as well lately. 6 of 7 days last week, and generally at least 4 times a week LOL. I play with a decent amount of topspin, no Nadal, but (according to my opponents anyway) enough to cause problems. The lower flex sounds like a good idea for long term arm health. I've been playing with a weighted up Prince Phantom the last couple of weeks and that seems to be helping. But that stick is just a little low powered - added 20 grams to get the mass up to where it's giving me what I need.

String wise I'm using Babolat Xcel French Open right now. I think that's a high quality multi and delivers more spin that Technifibre NRG2 (as a direct comparison). For summer I have 11 sets of Babolat VS Touch for the deserving racket

How would you compare the Angell synthetic grip quality, to something like the Babolat Syntec Pro, or Head HydroSorb Pro? I got the leather on my TC97 and it is no where near as nice as the Head or Prince Calfskins. So thinking of going synthetic this time around.

I like the leather grip on my angel TC 95's But I definitely also use an overgrip so not the same sort of situation I suggest you just use whatever grip you like the best on your sticks players are so particular about that sort of thing for example I pretty much always use gamma Supreme over grips. the 63ra frames are more like 58 strung and very kind to the arm... big spin fron tc95 and tc100. ... noticed my hitting partners groundstrokes particularly his forehands have a great deal more heaviness since he's switch to the tc100, no question.

 

[joohan]

Thanks very much for your feedback!

If the TC100 63RA is even close to the power of the Strike then it's totally an option. I can generate my own pace no problem, just a racket like the Strike gives me the ability to be more creative under pressure. Sounds like the TC100 63RA will be the same.

Any other contributors?

TC100 63RA is a very complete, balanced frame. Defense, offense and, most importantly, switching between the two with one stroke is very easy. TC95 is great weapon if you're on the gas in the rallies and in defense it's ok (or better than most shotmaking frames), TC97 18x20 is entirely different species (measured, even tempered, best touch of the three - personal opinion) and it does not bail you out either, you have to work hard to dig yourself up.

Plus TC100 63RA hits great both flat and heavy topspin(I mean nasty topspin) too. Truly unique frame with all its attributes blended in so well.

 

[Tordne]

I like the leather grip on my angel TC 95's But I definitely also use an overgrip so not the same sort of situation I suggest you just use whatever grip you like the best on your sticks players are so particular about that sort of thing for example I pretty much always use gamma Supreme over grips. the 63ra frames are more like 58 strung and very kind to the arm... big spin fron tc95 and tc100. ... noticed my hitting partners groundstrokes particularly his forehands have a great deal more heaviness since he's switch to the tc100, no question.

I always use an overgrip as well, Yonex Supergrap for me. Yeah, I've seen that the RA comes down by about 5-6 points when pallets are added and strung. There is no stiffness issue at all with the TC97 18x20. The only thing I'm finding with that is that the launch angel is a bit low. I know I could get that marginally better with lower cross tensions etc. But I'm used to more open patterns lately and it's just an easier transition An extra 6 inches of net clearance is a massive deal.

A friend and I went to an event where they (attempted to) measure serve speed. When I served with the TC97 I immediately and consistently was hitting 12 kmh faster than with other frames, Strike included.

 

[Tordne]

TC100 63RA is a very complete, balanced frame. Defense, offense and, most importantly, switching between the two with one stroke is very easy. TC95 is great weapon if you're on the gas in the rallies and in defense it's ok (or better than most shotmaking frames), TC97 18x20 is entirely different species (measured, even tempered, best touch of the three - personal opinion) and it does not bail you out either, you have to work hard to dig yourself up.

Plus TC100 63RA hits great both flat and heavy topspin(I mean nasty topspin) too. Truly unique frame with all its attributes blended in so well.

I knew there was some inevitability about getting one. But oyu guys are costing me real money here LOL.

Now I think I just need to think about the grip shape. Been a long time Head player so the A shape (which I have on the TC97) makes immediate sense. But having played with the Strike for a while I quite like the B (standard) shape as well. Then to make it more confusing playing with the Prince Phantom (played Prince before switching to Head) recently and that C shape is seeming very familiar as well. So basically I could choose any of them LOL.

 

[joohan]

I knew there was some inevitability about getting one. But oyu guys are costing me real money here LOL.

Now I think I just need to think about the grip shape. Been a long time Head player so the A shape (which I have on the TC97) makes immediate sense. But having played with the Strike for a while I quite like the B (standard) shape as well. Then to make it more confusing playing with the Prince Phantom (played Prince before switching to Head) recently and that C shape is seeming very familiar as well. So basically I could choose any of them LOL.

I hear you. I've got another TC100 already on the way.)

Forgot to add that TC100 is a serving machine. I practice on this multi-purpose court that has a sort of rubber hockey barrier (we call it mantinel) for winter ice rink use. It is around waistline high. With TC95 63RA 18x20 320g/305mm unstrung with Silverstring 1.25 at around 52 I was regularly hitting inside the service line and into the middle of the rubber. With 11.7oz/7HL TC100 I'm regularly hitting above the rubber into the net and that's barely half of the story as far as serving is concerned. 16x19 pattern, bigger headsize and increased confidence,I guess, lets me hit spots I could not regularly access before.

Hm...sounds like I'm overselling a bit. I think it's fair to say that my game and TC100 is a good match, that's why I'm so enthusiastic about it.

 

[zalive]

Info for peeps...just ordered today TC100 63 RA I didn't communicate with Paul at all, took the lightest option (I'll put weight on the handle side myself).

 

[dgoran]

Info for peeps...just ordered today TC100 63 RA I didn't communicate with Paul at all, took the lightest option (I'll put weight on the handle side myself).

It's been a long time coming

 

[joohan]

It's been a long time coming

Borderline overdue.)

 

[zalive]

Yeah but there were reasons and also I wouldn't go for the TC100 if it was sooner...

 

[Jouke]

I am actually coming away from the TC100 more and more. Yes it hits a mean spin, yes it serves good. But i don't find the frame that great for flatter harder hitters. I am back to the TC97 18x20 right now. That thing somehow gives me incredible confidence on the forehand. Balls dont come with as much spin as with the TC100 but they come with a lot more pace! The racket just allows me to go full out on the forehand. I played my best Tennis with it tonight, lost 6-1 6-2 against a much much higher ranked player, but it was very close in every game. I did give him a run for his money! I really liked how I played tonight, very aggressive. Liked RSLyon in the frame a lot more than YPTP.

Nonetheless I also ordered the Prince Phantom 100. Just to see. Since it is a 16x18 pattern I dont really think it suits my game. But I am just too curious!

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

I knew there was some inevitability about getting one. But oyu guys are costing me real money here LOL.

Now I think I just need to think about the grip shape. Been a long time Head player so the A shape (which I have on the TC97) makes immediate sense. But having played with the Strike for a while I quite like the B (standard) shape as well. Then to make it more confusing playing with the Prince Phantom (played Prince before switching to Head) recently and that C shape is seeming very familiar as well. So basically I could choose any of them LOL.

I really like the A grip shape, for me it makes a slight but noticeable difference

 

[Jouke]

I like the A shape more on the serve, but like the B type more on my forehand. Struggles..

 

[joohan]

I am actually coming away from the TC100 more and more. Yes it hits a mean spin, yes it serves good. But i don't find the frame that great for flatter harder hitters. I am back to the TC97 18x20 right now. That thing somehow gives me incredible confidence on the forehand. Balls dont come with as much spin as with the TC100 but they come with a lot more pace! The racket just allows me to go full out on the forehand. I played my best Tennis with it tonight, lost 6-1 6-2 against a much much higher ranked player, but it was very close in every game. I did give him a run for his money! I really liked how I played tonight, very aggressive. Liked RSLyon in the frame a lot more than YPTP.

Nonetheless I also ordered the Prince Phantom 100. Just to see. Since it is a 16x18 pattern I dont really think it suits my game. But I am just too curious!

Depends on where you play as well. If I played only on hard courts I highly doubt I'd even contemplate TC100, 18x20 TC97 does everything well for that environment and type of play. On red clay it's a different story altogether.

 

[Jouke]

Depends on where you play as well. If I played only on hard courts I highly doubt I'd even contemplate TC100, 18x20 TC97 does everything well for that environment and type of play. On red clay it's a different story altogether.

Good point! Forget to mention that I play on clay during the outdoor season. Playing on carpet during winter. But still I seem to prefer the TC97 18x20 on clay. Simply because it is such a constant factor. I feel like I know what ball is going to come, and where as soon as I hit it. With the TC100 sometimes there seems be an irradical launch angle if I dont hit a 100% clean shot, launching my ball in the fence. Might try and string the crosses at the same tension or higher than mains to tame it a bit. With what string , what tension and what method (1 or 2 piece) do you guys string the TC100?

 

[joohan]

I feel like I know what ball is going to come, and where as soon as I hit it.

I feel it like that, too. Call it the "Murray factor". Constant and predictable response.

 

[dgoran]

Good point! Forget to mention that I play on clay during the outdoor season. Playing on carpet during winter. But still I seem to prefer the TC97 18x20 on clay. Simply because it is such a constant factor. I feel like I know what ball is going to come, and where as soon as I hit it. With the TC100 sometimes there seems be an irradical launch angle if I dont hit a 100% clean shot, launching my ball in the fence. Might try and string the crosses at the same tension or higher than mains to tame it a bit. With what string , what tension and what method (1 or 2 piece) do you guys string the TC100?

This is exactly how I feel about 16x19 pattern or some open 18x20 like 100p.
It just feels like my forehand needs 18x20 to feel confident to hit 100% power and not fear of launching it too high or out of the court lol

 

[dgoran]

I also got phantom just to compare to tc95 bc soft racquets also tend to tame my stroke but this one is 16x18 so I fear that it's too open. Let's see...I never played with low Ra AND OPEN pattern racquet before. All my sub 58 ra frames were 18x20 and open patterns were at least 64ra

 

[beltsman]

I also got phantom just to compare to tc95 bc soft racquets also tend to tame my stroke but this one is 16x18 so I fear that it's too open. Let's see...I never played with low Ra AND OPEN pattern racquet before. All my sub 58 ra frames were 18x20 and open patterns were at least 64ra

I am pretty hyped for the Phantom, although I don't like O ports.

Some 16x18 can be tight (See: Volkl 8 series). I like the 16x18 pattern of the PCG100. So I'm curious to see how tight/open the Phantom is.

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

I also got phantom just to compare to tc95 bc soft racquets also tend to tame my stroke but this one is 16x18 so I fear that it's too open. Let's see...I never played with low Ra AND OPEN pattern racquet before. All my sub 58 ra frames were 18x20 and open patterns were at least 64ra

I find that softer sticks actually improve my serving and return game... I hit harder and with more accuracy with them and the 16x19 pattern makes sense now that I use a lot more topspin. I actually don like stiffer frames with an open pattern... the youtek Prestige Pro was a really nice stick but too stiff... just didnt feel right and I only used it on windy days (it was super whippy). TC95 has everything it wanted to have but I can use it in any weather.

 

[Tordne]

Order placed! TC100 63RA, 320g/310mm balance and target unstrung SW of 305. And some spare grommets and grips for good measure. And now I sit and watch the mail box

 

[beltsman]

Order placed! TC100 63RA, 320g/310mm balance and target unstrung SW of 305. And some spare grommets and grips for good measure. And now I sit and watch the mail box

How did you arrive at those specs?

 

[Tordne]

The weight and balance are how I like it. And confirmed with Paul that that SW was attainable. Strung am expecting SW to be between 335 and 340. I have an AccuSwing 2 so I can measure it all

 

[zalive]

This is exactly how I feel about 16x19 pattern or some open 18x20 like 100p.
It just feels like my forehand needs 18x20 to feel confident to hit 100% power and not fear of launching it too high or out of the court lol

This was about the reason why I decided for a TC100 63 RA in the end...I gave myself some experience with 18x20, and though I can play a decent match with them I feel like something's missing. And specifically, I miss angled shots (IDK how to do them with 18x20's), balls that drop deep in front of the netman...18x20 makes you earn your spin and I did some effort to earn more, but it's still not the same. I just don't have 18x20 strokes, so I miss part of fun. From the other position, I wanted a 95'' 18x20 because of net play as it can make things easier. So, TC95 16x19 was another option if I go for the open pattern, but I didn't have enough courage, and since I've read here some splendid things about TC100 63 RA (and since I remembered how hitting with Pacific "252" XFL was fun with its flex), and considering my level, that prevailed. I'd still prefer something like a 98'' (TC98 63 RA), but in between possibilities...however a TC95 still remains the option in the future...

 

[Gee]

I am actually coming away from the TC100 more and more. Yes it hits a mean spin, yes it serves good. But i don't find the frame that great for flatter harder hitters. I am back to the TC97 18x20 right now. That thing somehow gives me incredible confidence on the forehand. Balls dont come with as much spin as with the TC100 but they come with a lot more pace! The racket just allows me to go full out on the forehand. I played my best Tennis with it tonight, lost 6-1 6-2 against a much much higher ranked player, but it was very close in every game. I did give him a run for his money! I really liked how I played tonight, very aggressive. Liked RSLyon in the frame a lot more than YPTP.

Nonetheless I also ordered the Prince Phantom 100. Just to see. Since it is a 16x18 pattern I dont really think it suits my game. But I am just too curious!

Exactly my experiences too.

What kind of grip do you use with your forehand? I guess you better hit with a western or extreme western grip with the TC100.
With a continental or eastern forehand grip (like I used to) you tend to hit more flatter strokes that suits the TC97 18x20 much better.

 

[Tordne]

My last order, last year, was 4 days from order to shipment. Dor people ordering recently what’s the current order completion time looking like?

 

[topspn]

Hmm...interesting perspectives on the 16x19 vs 18x20 pattern. I play indoor (winter), hardcourt and American clay (har tru)courts so not the red clay. TC95 and TC100 16x19 play great and I play an eastern grip and shuffle with semi-western when I wan to go heavier spin. I really like to switch between flat and heavy spin to keep an opponent from getting into a rhythm with my strokes. No trouble going flat, i actually find them extremely versatile in that regard.

 

[Georgo]

2. TC100 63RA power is more. They are both extremely comfortable. The 63 RA has better touch, a better volley stick and bigger serves and not because the 70RA is a slouch by any means.

In what areas is the 70RA better? Why would someone pick it vs the 63RA?

 

[topspn]

In what areas is the 70RA better? Why would someone pick it vs the 63RA?

The 70RA TC100 is a terrific racquet in its own right. I have 4 TC100s so 2 in each RA and TC95s in 63RA, I love them all. The 70RA is a little more controlled and the feel is more firm. So it is really subjective based on what someone is used to on feel.

 

[zalive]

In what areas is the 70RA better? Why would someone pick it vs the 63RA?

If you put hitting comfort issues aside, stiffer racquets are good competitors. Stiffer racquets are more pin-point precise because they don't change their geometry as much on impact (which includes torsional stiffness as well). Which is especially important on flat shots, as on flat shots precision means a lot. You have to have it to keep the ball in the court, and the ability to pin point aim for the depth is what gives flat shots its worth. Stiff racquets usually excel there. Also, racquets which are stiff in other directions of the handle direction also excel at spin generation as this kind of stiffness aids the spin - manufacturers know that and that's about the reason why spin racquets are often being made pretty stiff. As for flexier racquets, IMO their playability advantage is shaping of the ball trajectory, where you can actually use the flex to control the trajectory. The other obvious advantage is control, ability to tame balls a bit - prior to poly era this was important to help control what's coming out of the string bed; poly string beds can do that themselves, but the trouble is shock to the arm.

In simple words, if comfort is not an issue, it's really for discussion whether stiff racquets play even better than the flexier ones.

 

[TheRasha]

Does anybody of you tried TC97 in Tour version? As I see it is 63RA not 66 as in Custom mode

 

[topspn]

Does anybody of you tried TC97 in Tour version? As I see it is 63RA not 66 as in Custom mode

It's the exact same RA. Custom is simply quoted before handle, grip goes on. And Tour after handle/grip is on

 

[kabrac]

I'm also looking at these rackets. Is there a way to demo these as this is a UK company? Also was looking at custom building a racket and they had different weights and balances, is that strung balance and weight or unstrung balance and weight? Specifically looking at the 90, the 95 in an 18 x 20, the 97 and an 18 x 20, and the 105

 

[topspn]

I'm also looking at these rackets. Is there a way to demo these as this is a UK company? Also was looking at custom building a racket and they had different weights and balances, is that strung balance and weight or unstrung balance and weight? Specifically looking at the 90, the 95 in an 18 x 20, the 97 and an 18 x 20, and the 105

All the custom built specs are unstrung. The RA is quoted before the handle/grip is on

 

[CosmosMpower]

In what areas is the 70RA better? Why would someone pick it vs the 63RA?

Can't speak for the TC100 but I like my TC95 18x20 70RA more than my TC95 18x20 63 RA. The 70 feels more maneuverable, and has more pop. It feels less sluggish despite both being 310/9 pts head light.