Tour 10 VEmp vs Cat 8 VE

[saf]

Can anyone briefly compare the two racquets that have played with both. Just curious if the Cat 8 VE is more powerful, and how they might differ. By the specs I would guess the Cat 8 VE is more powerful, however, I've heard many say that it is a relatively soft, complete and controlable frame.

I realize play style comes into factor. To give you an idea of my perspective, I feel that the Tour 10 VeMP has plenty of power for me and probably would not like anymore.

Thanks...

 

[El Diablo]

Comparing racquets weighing 10.8 and 12 ounces respectively is daunting, as they have so little in common other than the manufacturer (which one assumes is the reason for your interest in both.) One could list the virtues and liabilities of each, but you can find those lists elsewhere on this website. Better that you should decide what weight class suits you. These racquets feel so different (I used the VEMP for a time and played 3 times with the Cat) that you'd need to try them to know what suits you best.

 

[louis netman]

Straight off the rack, the VE has more oomph....I thought the Cat was too light in stock form, but worked really well at everything with leather and added weight at the butt & hoop. I couldn't get used to the catapult, big grommet, sweet-spot suspension (Prince lingo) type feel. The thick beam was a bit funky for me too, along with the old L.A. Rams paint job. However, if I was blind and deaf, I'd be using it as I had good results. Unfortunately (and fortunately) tennis is as much psychological as it is physical...

The VE MP was nice and provided a solid response on all shots, but didn't have the feel and customization margin as my regular custom C9s. In fact, I feel that all the Sensor Tour handle Volkls seem to be less "feely" than prior models because they have a layer of dense, vibration-absorbing foam under the pallet whereas prior models simply had the actual graphite handle underneath.

 

[NoBadMojo]

saf I though the Cat8VE had less inherent power than the T10MPVE unless someone is a flatter ball hitter. It just doesnt have the mass the T10has and is a very soft hit. They have entirely different feels to them. The Cat8VE is kinda spongy...<Rabbit dont kill me for saying that, at least I didnt say it feels 'noodley' like your old C10's >;O
I found the Cat8VE to be a very modern frame which plays more like a flexy control oriented frame..it's got an older school feel and power level, but is far easier to move and to flush hit. To me, it is kinda like the old Cat10 but without the drawbacks. I like my hit to be a little more crisp and precise feeling than that, but that's just me.

 

[saf]

Thanks guys!

I'm kind of looking forward to the DNX 9. I've been playing with various 10's all fall and winter. This is what I found. I love them when I have time. I really think I need to be using something around 12oz, but not much if any over that. Up to this past year I've been in the 12.4-12.6 range.

Right now my racquet of choice is the 10 VE MP. I am going to experiment with trimming the head guard on my 10 VEMP's. There is no doubt in my mind when I am playing well, moving well, and in the right situation the weight is a good thing. However, over Christmas break I played a former student/HS player of mine that is currently playing Big Ten D1 tennis now, I found when I am rushed a little, or a little late, I struggle keeping the ball in. This is not a specific racquets fault as I have the same problem with various 12+oz frames. To be honest, I probably have not been playing enough, and lack of confidence might be the main reason. I know that when I'm not confident and am not swinging freely, I will tend to miss (as most people).

Also, sometimes that little doubter critic jumps into my head and says you cannot swing this stick anymore. Your getting old. I just had my 30th b-day =-). In this transition part of my life, referring to switching racquets and not age =-), I wonder if I need to go lighter or just play more (difficult when a husband, parent, full time teacher & coach). Strength's not an issue as I'm a big, tall, long armed guy that hits the weights frequently. Probably more footwork and timing.

Time will tell as I experiment more. Right now I really like the 10 VeMP's, just want to be open to various options. I've learned a lot about myself and racquets this last year since cruising this message board. I know if I gave the Cat 8 VE a test drive, it would need lead. That might make it a rocket launcher though???

Anyways, thanks for your time and thoughts...