QC also plays part in it. Worst thing its hard to decide which frame to choose by reading people reviews, because same frame with different QC plays different.
Ultimate racquet of choice - tournament players and/or coaches
- Thread starter galapagos
- Start date
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- Tags
- best racquet holy grail
Good point to make. Also different racquets feel/play differently with certain strings and tensions. It is all about finding that " sweet combination" with racquet and strings. Once you find that combination that works for you then you enjoy playing a lot, lot more.
So I am currently using both the Elevate FS 98 and TF40 305 16x19 as my primary racquets, playing on hardcourts in pretty hot conditions. The two racquets are very similar and are both strung with Black Code 4S 1.20 at the same tension (49/47). They are within 2 grams of each other and have similar balance points, which is around 7 points HL since I have leather grips on them. Both racquets also have 2g at 12 o'clock. The SW should be within 5g of each other since the 305 has quite a bit more mass in the head and takes tail weighting very well (much better than the RS305 IMO).
Everything in this section below are extremely slight differences, so one may even consider them equal. The Spin may be because I am getting more RHS with the TF40.
Power - TF40 16x19 >/= EFS (this is really really close, not sure it makes a difference)
Control - TF40 = EFS
Spin - TF40 > EFS
Comfort - EFS > TF40
Feel - TF40 > EFS
The two major differences are below, and they are not huge by any means, but you can tell easily.
Stability - EFS >> TF40
Maneuverability - TF40 >> EFS
Looks - TF40 >>> EFS, the new TF40 really is the best looking racquet I have ever seen, and I am not a Francophile.
Both are very whippy racquets, but TF40 with its very boxy beam construction is faster. On contact, you can tell both are foam filled but the EFS has more foam, thus providing more comfort.
Groundstrokes - on my OHBH and FHs with time, I prefer the EFS ever so slightly due to the stability.
Slices - actually prefer the TF40, perhaps due to the RHS. The mains are quite close together in the center so gives a nasty slice even at 16x19.
Serves, short balls, volleys, and defensive balls - I prefer the TF40 due to it feeling lighter/whippier when it is actually 2gs heavier, so I can get the racquet face right. It is stable enough for volleying for sure.
Serve returns - both are stable, the EFS feels more stable and I prefer it.
And no, I cannot decide which one is better for me, but both are amazing racquets that play similarly. EFS is the most solid feeling 305 (or there abouts) that I have tried, and I have tried basically everything (ET, PAVS, VC98, TF40, RS300, RadPro21, SX300Tour, Phantom 100X, PS, VCP310, RS305 - okay this is just as solid but the SW is next level)
Everything in this section below are extremely slight differences, so one may even consider them equal. The Spin may be because I am getting more RHS with the TF40.
Power - TF40 16x19 >/= EFS (this is really really close, not sure it makes a difference)
Control - TF40 = EFS
Spin - TF40 > EFS
Comfort - EFS > TF40
Feel - TF40 > EFS
The two major differences are below, and they are not huge by any means, but you can tell easily.
Stability - EFS >> TF40
Maneuverability - TF40 >> EFS
Looks - TF40 >>> EFS, the new TF40 really is the best looking racquet I have ever seen, and I am not a Francophile.
Both are very whippy racquets, but TF40 with its very boxy beam construction is faster. On contact, you can tell both are foam filled but the EFS has more foam, thus providing more comfort.
Groundstrokes - on my OHBH and FHs with time, I prefer the EFS ever so slightly due to the stability.
Slices - actually prefer the TF40, perhaps due to the RHS. The mains are quite close together in the center so gives a nasty slice even at 16x19.
Serves, short balls, volleys, and defensive balls - I prefer the TF40 due to it feeling lighter/whippier when it is actually 2gs heavier, so I can get the racquet face right. It is stable enough for volleying for sure.
Serve returns - both are stable, the EFS feels more stable and I prefer it.
And no, I cannot decide which one is better for me, but both are amazing racquets that play similarly. EFS is the most solid feeling 305 (or there abouts) that I have tried, and I have tried basically everything (ET, PAVS, VC98, TF40, RS300, RadPro21, SX300Tour, Phantom 100X, PS, VCP310, RS305 - okay this is just as solid but the SW is next level)
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
great review and I agree with you. Those frames are very very similar. Almost interchangeable. I said it as well.
stock to stock I think most will feel better with Elevate. I had honeymoon with that one while with TF40 I knew right away that I need some more weight (but I had 315g version with low SW and balance point actually slightly lower than 31cm so it was too fast on my backhand).
But the real difference for me was the spin potential. With TF40 it was a bit better.
@dandan.tennis
Biiru
Rookie
How much tail weight did you add to the tf40 305 to get 7pt HL? Just changing to leather grip? Mine with original grip and an OG is almost 2pt hl now, haven't got used to it yet, but trying to play with a less HL racket to see If I can hit the ball better.
leather + 2 OGs. They don’t have a lot of L4s here so I had to go up from a L3
Biiru
Rookie
Do you know the swingweight of the modified racket?
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
time for the Head Graphene 360+ Speed MP (compared to Xt version, touch version and 360 version lol)
(wide base executed too seriously) Coco Gauff
Sinner - tennis prodigy - his stability is amazing probably on par with Djokovic. If he improves controling speed of the exchange and gain more flexibility he might be the next BIG thing.
Ok. So to be honest. Despite such a strong lineup I didn't like this racquet too much. It's kinda nice but nothing special about it. First of all one of the coaches in the academy owns the newest 360+ MP and the previous 360 speed mp and in my opinion there is almost no difference !
So I would say Head focused more on tweaking Speed Pro line where I can see a HUGE improvement. I don't like the overall balance of the Speed MP. It tires my wrist a bit yet the weight makes it low powered and slightly unstable. I just don't see it great in stock form. Sinner adds weight to his Speed MP making it closer to Nadal's specs. Also I am more of a traditionalist when it comes to sticks so obviously speed mp should feel a bit strange in my hands. It's thick.
And regarding balance it's not only about head heaviness. For example I used to play with Liquidmetal Radical MP and that was very sweet frame !
My other friend is still rocking his xt speed mp and doesnt care about latest updates...my other friend is rocking his touch speed mp and also seems to be not so excited with other updates. If I had to choose the best speed mp it would probably be the touch version. But I am not super crazy about it. Oh... maybe it's a combination of balance, SW and 100" headsize that bothers my wrist.
It's a more control oriented, comfortable babolat pure drive but with this kinda feel I would probably still pick pure drive to at least try to dominate more. It's like - if you dont have the king of control sticks then at least try to get the best stick for crushing your opponents. Its somewhere in the middle making it a weird choice.
It's a good all around but lacking in all departments overall compared to other "top frames". It's perhaps a good transition racquet but at the same time I would faster give Radical MP to a talented junior rather than speed mp.
Slightly disappointed but again - Speed Pro is standing there, saving the little brother
5.5 rating - there are better options even for intermediate players. Tournament players will probably not like this and coaches will probably prefer easier racquets OR more control oriented racquet OR more powerful spin oriented racquets.
other frames on my list(click)
say hello on IG !@dandan.tennis
Hey @galapagos the holics started to talk a lot about the IG Speed MP 300, have you tried it?
TW specs for those interested:
| Head Size: 100 sq. in. / 645 sq. cm. |
| Length: 27 inches |
| Weight: 11.1oz |
| Balance: 3pts HL |
| Swingweight: 308 |
| Stiffness: 60 |
| Beam Width: 20mm / 20mm / 20mm / |
| Composition: d30 / Innegra / Graphite |
| Power Level: Low-Medium |
| Stroke Style: Full |
| Swing Speed: Fast |
| Racquet Colors: White / Black |
| Grip Type: Hydrosorb |
| String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses Mains skip: 7T, 9T, 7H, 9H Two Piece No Shared Holes |
| String Tension: 52-62 pounds |
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Im not sure if he used IG version. I thought its touch ?
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
The holics talk about IG, saying that it's like a 16x19 Gravity Pro, but faster:
Diary of a Racketaholic
I have an account with UTR but doesn't look like much activity here in Atlanta yet.
tt.tennis-warehouse.com
snoflewis said:
i've been thinking about this the past month or so. i read it's basically the same mold with a slightly different layup. even with a 328 sw, the gpro was still too clunky for me, so trying this with a 16x19 is appealing. they can be found for relatively cheap, but still hesitant to pull the trigger on it.
As long as you're prepared to do a solid modification... they are awesome. I think the SW was 308 and the balance was 3 pts HL. Mine after mods is in the low to mid 340g range (from memory - unstrung)... but I did a Wawrinka/ Djokovic Tungsten Tape job on the head and added weight to the handle. I don't remember the balance strung... but if I had to guesstimate from how it feels when holding and hitting... I'd say 5-6 pts HL (strung). You can also still find spare grommets in places and for a regular price. I just got me 3 or 4 spares.
There is a Canadian retailer that is selling them brand new for $129.95 and they have L2, L3, and L4... just in case you want to get some.
I don’t have a machine but I’d venture to guess it’s around 330SW due to the 2g at 12, leather, and 2 ogs. The racquet was 303g unstrung with original grip and 338g strung with leather, ogs, strings. I don’t use dampeners.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
I dont know… Zverev was using IG MP speed which was 18x20 thin beam before switching to gravity pro. It was very unstable and IMO gravity pro is much better.The holics talk about IG, saying that it's like a 16x19 Gravity Pro, but faster:
Diary of a Racketaholic
I have an account with UTR but doesn't look like much activity here in Atlanta yet.
snoflewis said:
i've been thinking about this the past month or so. i read it's basically the same mold with a slightly different layup. even with a 328 sw, the gpro was still too clunky for me, so trying this with a 16x19 is appealing. they can be found for relatively cheap, but still hesitant to pull the trigger on it.
As long as you're prepared to do a solid modification... they are awesome. I think the SW was 308 and the balance was 3 pts HL. Mine after mods is in the low to mid 340g range (from memory - unstrung)... but I did a Wawrinka/ Djokovic Tungsten Tape job on the head and added weight to the handle. I don't remember the balance strung... but if I had to guesstimate from how it feels when holding and hitting... I'd say 5-6 pts HL (strung). You can also still find spare grommets in places and for a regular price. I just got me 3 or 4 spares.
There is a Canadian retailer that is selling them brand new for $129.95 and they have L2, L3, and L4... just in case you want to get some.
I’ve read that Sinner was/is using touch speed MP frame. I know a person using it. Might borrow it for a hit but i am not a speed mp guy. Tried few of them and something was off every time.
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Fintft
G.O.A.T.
Thanks Dandan!
For you and everyone else: TF40 315 18M is $150 at TW!
Personally I am looking for the 16M, based on your review.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
WILSON BLADE 98 16x19 and 18x20 REVIEW:
I have experience with Blade since 2015 (v5) version (18x20 user for 1 year). It was an amazing frame and many will probably recall it as one of the best versions ever.
I know there are some claims that 16x19 is not as stable as 18x20 version but for me they are quite similar with 18x20 obviousy being a bit more hefty, stable but due to bump in SW. On the other hand 16x19 is a bit more forgiving and faster.
I know many great players that switched from 18x20 blade to 16x19 version just because it was a tiny bit easier to play with and for that slighty better spin potential. I predict that the trend will now shift from 18x20 fanbase to 16x19 fanbase (especially with amazing 360+ Radical MP success)
Which versions of Blades I tried?
V5 18x20 2015:
Like I said, that one is the golden standard and a reference for all future Blades. I think this one also made the whole line popular at least at the forum. Balance here was 32.5 so even more demanding for my wrist. It hurt just looking at it.
V6 (countervail) 16x19 and 18x20
IMO it's the worst generation. Less feel, more power, similar spin, kinda stiff... mleh...I know many who got injured with CV. But I also know some who kept playing with it (more actually with 18x20 versions here)
V7 Blades 16x19 and 18x20:
that one is great! It has everything. It's a complete frame in my opinion but the balance/weight distribution definitely is not for everybody. My wrist felt the mass and it was noticable on volleys. But oh boy I think Blade's are perfect for my double-backhand. No matter if it's 16x19 or 18x20. Both are great. In my opinion V7 16x19 is slightly better than 18x20 because it's a tiny bit easier to use. I think the power potential is still there (higher than with TF40 for example and definitely higher than Prestige line), comfort is there, feel is there. V7 Blade is maybe the closest frame I could switch to from Angell TC95 but my wrist is not a fan for some reason and I did try some other similar frames as well (RS305, Radical MP, Diadem Elevate).
V7 16x19 and 18x20 are definitely getting from me a 7.5 rating. My personal preference would lean a bit towards 16x19 version. Blades were not mine so I couldnt add weight to the handle to check if my wrist can play with it. In stock form it was a bit off BUT I respect that the performance was still there and the balance was a bit easier to use than from V5. It's always hard to modify specs without loosing the playability and the fanbase. Amazing frame!
V8 Blades 18x20:
This time 18x20 was the better one for me and 16x19 was too far from the Blade DNA.
I have no idea why Wilson decided to drop the SW so much on 16x19 version? On the other hand, maybe it's quality control again.... Less plow, less stability. At that point I would faster choose Radical MP 360+ and I believe many will do this. In Europe I see a growing trend of replacing Blades with new Radicals. Obviously in France you will probably see TF40 more often and of course in USA you will probably see Blades
The performance is pretty much the same every generation with slight tweaks in the layap, stiffness, dwell time, comfort. This one of course can change the performance a lot but nothing crazy.
Amazing slices, great control, touch, great plow through (don't look at the V8 16x19), great stability, nice spin potential for a frame with such huge control. It's an advanced frame for sure and I can't imagine players with one-handed backhand using 18x20 Blade (and in many cases 16x19 as well). Well maybe the drop in SW on V8 might change that....
BTW V8 Blade 18x20 felt as heavy/demanding as my TC95 320g/310mm and SW 328 with different feel of the swing (more headlight frames were easier for me to "navigate")
What I don't respect:
of course the quality control could be better... I had also some pro staffs in my life and oh boy..it was a mess
I really like the paintjob of V8 Blades but I don't respect that it was kinda copied from Angell Octane. Of course we are living in a free world but I feel like Angell had to drop their Octane line to protect their "originality" status. Even If I know who was the first the crushing numbers of Wilson fanbase would change the truth into lie
Anyway V8 is amazing, V5 is amazing, V7 paintjob is horrible, V6 PJ is horrible.... Changing from one generation to another is IMO "close enough".
favourite overall would be from 16x19 - V7 and from 18x20-V8
as I try to give ratings for current lines and not the overall picture I would say V8 18x20 is 7.5 and V8 16x19 is 6.7 (I would faster choose TF40, Radical, Extreme Tour and Vcore 95 at this point)
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
I have experience with Blade since 2015 (v5) version (18x20 user for 1 year). It was an amazing frame and many will probably recall it as one of the best versions ever.
I know there are some claims that 16x19 is not as stable as 18x20 version but for me they are quite similar with 18x20 obviousy being a bit more hefty, stable but due to bump in SW. On the other hand 16x19 is a bit more forgiving and faster.
I know many great players that switched from 18x20 blade to 16x19 version just because it was a tiny bit easier to play with and for that slighty better spin potential. I predict that the trend will now shift from 18x20 fanbase to 16x19 fanbase (especially with amazing 360+ Radical MP success)
Which versions of Blades I tried?
V5 18x20 2015:
Like I said, that one is the golden standard and a reference for all future Blades. I think this one also made the whole line popular at least at the forum. Balance here was 32.5 so even more demanding for my wrist. It hurt just looking at it.
V6 (countervail) 16x19 and 18x20
IMO it's the worst generation. Less feel, more power, similar spin, kinda stiff... mleh...I know many who got injured with CV. But I also know some who kept playing with it (more actually with 18x20 versions here)
V7 Blades 16x19 and 18x20:
that one is great! It has everything. It's a complete frame in my opinion but the balance/weight distribution definitely is not for everybody. My wrist felt the mass and it was noticable on volleys. But oh boy I think Blade's are perfect for my double-backhand. No matter if it's 16x19 or 18x20. Both are great. In my opinion V7 16x19 is slightly better than 18x20 because it's a tiny bit easier to use. I think the power potential is still there (higher than with TF40 for example and definitely higher than Prestige line), comfort is there, feel is there. V7 Blade is maybe the closest frame I could switch to from Angell TC95 but my wrist is not a fan for some reason and I did try some other similar frames as well (RS305, Radical MP, Diadem Elevate).
V7 16x19 and 18x20 are definitely getting from me a 7.5 rating. My personal preference would lean a bit towards 16x19 version. Blades were not mine so I couldnt add weight to the handle to check if my wrist can play with it. In stock form it was a bit off BUT I respect that the performance was still there and the balance was a bit easier to use than from V5. It's always hard to modify specs without loosing the playability and the fanbase. Amazing frame!
V8 Blades 18x20:
This time 18x20 was the better one for me and 16x19 was too far from the Blade DNA.
I have no idea why Wilson decided to drop the SW so much on 16x19 version? On the other hand, maybe it's quality control again.... Less plow, less stability. At that point I would faster choose Radical MP 360+ and I believe many will do this. In Europe I see a growing trend of replacing Blades with new Radicals. Obviously in France you will probably see TF40 more often and of course in USA you will probably see Blades
The performance is pretty much the same every generation with slight tweaks in the layap, stiffness, dwell time, comfort. This one of course can change the performance a lot but nothing crazy.
Amazing slices, great control, touch, great plow through (don't look at the V8 16x19), great stability, nice spin potential for a frame with such huge control. It's an advanced frame for sure and I can't imagine players with one-handed backhand using 18x20 Blade (and in many cases 16x19 as well). Well maybe the drop in SW on V8 might change that....
BTW V8 Blade 18x20 felt as heavy/demanding as my TC95 320g/310mm and SW 328 with different feel of the swing (more headlight frames were easier for me to "navigate")
What I don't respect:
of course the quality control could be better... I had also some pro staffs in my life and oh boy..it was a mess
I really like the paintjob of V8 Blades but I don't respect that it was kinda copied from Angell Octane. Of course we are living in a free world but I feel like Angell had to drop their Octane line to protect their "originality" status. Even If I know who was the first the crushing numbers of Wilson fanbase would change the truth into lie
Anyway V8 is amazing, V5 is amazing, V7 paintjob is horrible, V6 PJ is horrible.... Changing from one generation to another is IMO "close enough".
favourite overall would be from 16x19 - V7 and from 18x20-V8
as I try to give ratings for current lines and not the overall picture I would say V8 18x20 is 7.5 and V8 16x19 is 6.7 (I would faster choose TF40, Radical, Extreme Tour and Vcore 95 at this point)
say hello on IG !
@dandan.tennis
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@galapagos what strings and tension have you tried with blades?
ClaudTT
Semi-Pro
HaaaaaHaaaHaa
What a dilema !!!!!
I even added more to the pot by doing a full test with different set ups on the Bab PS VS 2022 !!! and am in big trouble .... but this 2 above are serious top frames.
mozzer
Hall of Fame
Got a vcore 95 and it is lovely to be honest, don't feel like it needs and mods. Really solid and the wider isometric head feels great!Yap.
Like @veelium already answered. It really depends if you are using 16x19 or 18x20 Vantage.
I think it's closer to find 18x20 alternative rather than 16x19 (which is super unique)
For 18x20 there are many cool options:
- Head Prestige Pro 18x20
- Dunlop CX200 Tour 18x20 (maybe not the most forgiving but the feel is very "ultimate")
- Head Gravity Pro - quite different feel but it has the control of a 95" frame locked in 100" headsize. Very interesting design. The sweet spot is not maybe as big as I would expect from 100" frame. Closer to 98" which is making it feel a bit weird. Kinda big and small at the same time? Kinda heavy and fast at the same time. String it low. Overall it's very addictive frame
- Head Speed Pro 18x20 - that one actually reminded me a lot of Angell feel-wise. It's 100", plush but direct at the same time. It's more forgiving than Gravity Pro but is also more responsive. Great frame. Easier to pick and play than Gravity which takes some time getting used to. BUT it's 23mm - much thicker beam and 100" is making you feel like a dinosaur oldie looking for help switching from Vantage.
- Wilson Blade 18x20 - this was my frame just before switching to Angell TC95 and many Angell users had similar path
- Tecnifibre TF40 18x20 - very solid with world-class slices. I actually maybe liked that one more than Angell TC95 18x20....
then you have something in between 18x20 and 16x19:
- Tecnifibre RS305 18x19 - a bit more comfort and a bit more spin potential compared to other 18x20 frames (unless it's a speed pro or gravity pro). It's 98" so you feel more "comfortable" with the design coming from Angell which is 95". + it's also foam filled !
- Diadem Elevate which is 16x20 and also foam filled. Again, more comfort, more spin potential compared to other 18x20 frames.
Elevate needs to be customized. RS305 I prefer to add mass to the handle (I like HL setups)
if you are using 16x19 Vantage then it's almost impossible to find alternative I think.
I would put some money on Yonex Vcore 95 (needs to be customized to get that solid feel) and Head Extreme Tour (needs crazy amount of lead but the potential is there)
then you have V7 Blade 16x19 which is kinda there as well.
I am now also using Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 customized to my specs and it offers much lower launch angle than Angell/Vantage 16x19, less power but similar spin potential. kinda more similar to Prestige line with 16x19 pattern. Needs more mass for higher SW. TF40 I guess is somewhere between Prestige and Blade.
say hello on IG !
Also ordered an Artengo TR960 Control which will arrive end of May, looking forward to trying that. But the yonex seems like an easy choice.
janelgreo
Professional
looking forward to hearing about the Artengo, especially compared to the VC95. The VC95 is my current stick and I love it but I did have to mod it quite a bit to get it to my liking.
I ordered a Pure Strike VS last night and it’ll be arriving Saturday, I can’t wait to try it out and see how I like it compared to the VC95.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
i know its pure amateur but the strings and tension varied.
in Blade V5 I tried Signum Pro Tornado 1.29 and Solinco Hyper G 1.20. I was stringing at 21kg from what I remember.
in Blades V6 I tried Signum Pro Tornado 1.29 21kg
in Blades V7 I tried Signum Pro Tornado thickness unknown, tension unknown and another was a demo racquet so don't know the string or tension (but probably low)
Blades V8 were with Solinco Confidential at unknown tension and gauge (borrowed from friends around the academy)
yap. I had Signum Pro Tornado "phase" as it's very popular around me. Now most moved to MSV actually.
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Mkiske
Semi-Pro
Prince Phantom 100PAfter my adventure with ultimate string of choice thread (click here) it is time for the racquets !
What are you guys using?
My current top 3:
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 (main)
- Angell TC95 16x19 (ex)
- Wilson Blade V7 16x19 / Tecnifibre RS305
still amazing trio:
- Head Gravity Pro
- Head Speed Pro
- Diadem Elevate 98 / Head Radical MP / Blade V8 18x20
say hello on IG !
TECNIFIBRE:
1. TFight 305 RS (click) - 7.5/10- comfort, solidness, easiness. It's somewhere between Speed Pro and Prestige MP. 18x19 pattern !!! Would like to see 315-325g version with 305mm-315mm balance.
2. TF40 315 18x20 2020 (click) - 7.1/10 - "prestige on steroids" but also feels slightly heavier
3. TRebound 298 IGA - 7.0/10 - how Head Graphene 360+ Speed MP should play like.
4. Tfight 300 RS - review to come
5. Tfight 315 RS(click) - 7.0/10 - Head Extreme Tour alternative, ready to play in stock form. Stiffness could be lower but comfort was good. I just prefer slower response
6. TF40 315 16x19 2022 (click) - 7.5/10 - very good platform racquet. It's what I wanted to get from Prestige MP - more bite with similar control. Verdasco should try it
WILSON:
1. Blade V8 18x20 (2015, CV and V7 comparison) (click) - 7.5/10- great frame but I now prefer 16x19 or 18x19 patterns. Still kinda demanding for my wrist
2. Blade V8 16x19 (V7 and V6) (click) - 6.7/10 - V7 was a better version (very switchable), I don't know why they lowered SW so much.
YONEX:
1. Ezone 98 16x19 2022 ( Dr comparison) - review to come
2. Vcore 95 16x20 2021 (click) - 6.8/10- too demanding for beginners, not enough mass for advanced players. Design and the potential is great.
3. Vcore Pro 97 (Duel G, 2019 comparison)- review to come
4. Vcore Pro 97 HD 18x20 2021 (2019 comparison) (click)- 7.0/10 - produces heavy ball but a bit launchy response. Great feel, a bit too cumbersome on my backhand.
HEAD:
1. Gravity Pro (click) - 7.0/10 - perfect modern racquet but the head shape is stealing some of the performance and you are forced to add more weight while it's already a demanding frame
2. Graphene 360+ Speed Pro (click) (Graphene Speed Pro and IG Speed MP (18x20) comparison) - 7.5/10 - 360+ is the best speed pro ever made packed with performance
3. raphene 360+ Speed MP (click) ( XT , Touch, 360 comparison) - 5.5/10 - all speed mp are very similar and there is nothing special about them. this line is standing in one place
4. Graphene 360+ Radical MP (click) - 7.1/10 - Radical we all wanted for many years (since 18x20 versions) but it's more of a transition racquet. Perfect for competitive pro-juniors
5. Graphene 360+ Prestige MP (click) - 7.2/10 (+previous models) - best Prestige I ever tested. Could have slightly more plow and spin potential. String it low. 22kg max
6. Graphene 360+ Extreme Tour (click) - 6.9/10 - too light but amazing design, SW should be slightly higher. feels a bit like a toy
7. Gravity Tour (click) - 7.2/10 - easiest to play control oriented frame but could be slightly more stable
ANGELL:
1. TC95 18x20 - 7.4/10 - crazy good, crazy demanding. Teaches how to be better but only for advanced players.
2. K7 Lime (click) - 7.0/10 - perfect replacement for IG prestige MP. I would prefer higher static weight and lower SW for even better touch. Maybe thinner beam.
3. TC95 16x19 (click) - 7.5/10 - best angell frame but still quite demanding. 1.30 string gauge recommended
4. TC100 16x19 (click) - 7.1 / 10 - a bit more power, a bit less feel. Not enough more forgiving to make me wanna drop tc95.
5. K7 Red(click) - 4.0/10 - worst Angell frame, maybe worst "premium racquet" I have ever tested
6. TC97 18x20 (click)- 7.0/10 - a bit hotter, more stable version of tc95 but also stiffer in feel.
7. TC97 16x19 (click)- 6.7/10 -a bit hotter, more stable version of tc95 but also stiffer in feel (too much trampoline effect for me)
DUNLOP:
1. CX 200 Tour 18x20 (2019 and 2017 comparison) - review to come
Diadem:
1. Elevate FS 98 (click) - 7.5 / 10 - perfect platform racquet that you can use in stock form or customized. Either way you will be very happy. Similar to Elevate Tour but better feel. Amazing weight distribution.
2. Elevate FS Tour 98 (click) - 7.0 / 10 - somewhere between Prestige and Blade. Head Radical Liquidmetal reincarnation but with 16x20 pattern. I would prefer lower RA.
Babolat:
1.Pure drive (???? any users here?)
2.Pure Aero (???? any users here?)
3.Pure Aero VS (???? any users here?)
Pacific:
1. X Force Pro No. 1 (click) - 7.0 / 10 - "Yonex Ezone" with a tighter launch angle. Aggresive baseliners will like it. 1.25 gauge or thinner recommended for more spin potential.
2. X Force Pro 320 (click) - 6.5 / 10 - solid Yonex Ezone alternative or Babolat Pure Aero with more traditional weight distribution, more comfort and control. I was getting similar for less from NO.1
Prince:
?
Mkiske
Semi-Pro
I didn't feel this when I played with the first version (Phantom Pro 100P). Racket that I had this feeling was with the K7 Red (1st version).
When I play with the new Phantom 100P I will be able to know better how the second version behaves.
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
Do you prefer TF40 16X19 or 18X20?for me it is better than Vcore Pro 97 and Prestiges (but I had to customize my TF40). Sweet spot is maybe a bit smaller but seems to be very responsive/grabby but at the same time the frame is very low powered so you actually crave that extra response. It's what I wanted to get from Angell TC97 basicly. Faster response but in a very control oriented/low powered way which overall give you the sensation of longer dwell time anyway. It's like whenever I try to hit faster it will translate into spin. Great frame, could have slightly bigger sweet spot but that's the thing with frames like this.
I can't imagine playing with 1.30 gauge in TF40 16x19 (unles a very soft one like firestorm). Better chances with 1.25, maybe even 1.20 and string max 22 kg
However I admit that strings I tried so far were on a control oriented side anyway - black code and tour hex. Now I wonder how would Razor Code perform in it.
Merci!
Sintherius
Semi-Pro
According to his updated initial post, he prefers the 16x19 as now his main frame is the TF40 315 16x19.
What I want to know is… why’d you abandon the Angell?!
@galapagos
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
He did explain and, without searching TF40 is more forgiving.According to his updated initial post, he prefers the 16x19 as now his main frame is the TF40 315 16x19.
What I want to know is… why’d you abandon the Angell?!
GermanBeast
New User
@galapagos
I read your very nice review on the TC 95 16x19 and I am very interested in this stick.
At the moment, I am playing with a 360+ Prestige Pro (95").
Could you please, compare the TC95 16x19 and the Prestige Pro?
I read your very nice review on the TC 95 16x19 and I am very interested in this stick.
At the moment, I am playing with a 360+ Prestige Pro (95").
Could you please, compare the TC95 16x19 and the Prestige Pro?
Sintherius
Semi-Pro
I thank you! Makes sense!
galapagos
Hall of Fame
I prefer 16x19 for easier spin and its a bit more forgiving . 18x20 is a king of slices though….
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Sorry i dont know 360+ prestige pro. I would expect higher launch angle with angell which gives a more „explosive” feel. Angell thinner beam and softer so probably better comfort.
tc95 is a very interesting design. Its a combo of a very classic frame with a very modern explosive response. Not for everyone. It might take some time especially if you are using thinner gauge string and if you are used to 18x20 string patterns.
GermanBeast
New User
That sounds good. I only use 16x19 string patterns, so I think, I could deal with a higher launch angle. Also, because I would like to have a little more lift on the ball than I get with the PP.
Maybe, you could give me an advice for the grip shape.
I don't like the very rectangular grip shapes of older Head and Tecnifibre (TK82). The grip shape of new Head's (TK82's), I like so much better.
Which grip shape should I choose, if I would buy an Angell?
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
Could the 305 be the opposite of the 315? Or do the strings make so much of a difference?
B/c someone else after a brief demo felt like this:
Speaking of which I am thinking of getting the 305 and not the 315 just to have a bit more SW than my Doppio and if I'll add a 18g leather grip, an overgrip, dampener and head tape quard it would go over 330g, without the need of adding lead (I'll buy some just in case).
The 305 is 3 pts HL, while both the 315 and the Doppio are 7 pts HL.
Also @JGads thinks that the 18x20 has a larger sweet spot than the 16X19 etc.
I have moved down from the heavy RF97A (365g) and don't need so much weight, nor sw as you (and no pro shop to customize it either), what do you think?
The Doppio, ProKennex Q+5 Pro (310):
| Technical Specifications | ||
|---|---|---|
| Length | 27 in | 69 cm |
| Head Size | 100 sq in | 645 sq cm |
| Weight | 11.5 oz | 326 gm |
| Balance Point | 12.59 in 32 cm | 7pts Head Light |
| Construction | 21.5mm Straight Beam | |
| Composition | High Modulus Graphite/SpiralTech Carbon | |
| String Pattern | 16 Mains / 20 Crosses |
| Babolat RDC Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Score | Grade | |
| Flex Rating | 67 | Range: 0-100 |
| Swing Weight | 320 | Range: 200-400 |
| Name | Tecnifibre TF40 315 (16x19) | Tecnifibre TF40 305 | Tecnifibre TF40 315 | Tecnifibre TF40 305 16x19 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clear All | Remove Racquet Order | Remove Racquet Order | Remove Racquet Order | Remove Racquet Order |
| Name | ||||
| Head Size | 98 sq. in / 632.26 sq. cm | 98 sq. in / 632.26 sq. cm | 98 sq. in / 632.26 sq. cm | 98 sq. in / 632.26 sq. cm |
| Length | 27.00 inches / 68.58 cm | 27.00 inches / 68.58 cm | 27.00 inches / 68.58 cm | 27.00 inches / 68.58 cm |
| Weight | 11.70 oz / 331.7 g | 11.30 oz / 320.36 g | 11.80 oz / 334.53 g | 11.30 oz / 320.36 g |
| Balance | 12.51 inches | 13.12 inches | 12.59 inches | 13.07 inches |
| Swing Weight | 313 | 326 | 323 | 321 |
| Beam Width | 22.0mm | 22.0mm | 22.0mm | 22.0mm |
| Tip/Shaft | 22.0mm / 22.0mm | 22.0mm / 22.0mm | 22.0mm / 22.0mm | 22.0mm / 22.0mm |
| Composition | Dynacore XTC/Graphite | Dynacore XTC/Graphite | Dynacore XTC/Graphite | Dynacore XTC/Graphite |
| Power Level | Low | Low | Low | Low |
| Stiffness | 64 | 64 | 64 | 64 |
| String Pattern | 16 Mains / 19 Crosses | 18 Mains / 20 Crosses | 18 Mains / 20 Crosses | 16 Mains / 19 Crosses |
| Main Skips | 8T,8H | 8T,10T,8H,10H | 8T,10T,8H,10H | 8T,8H |
| String Tension | 49-55 | 49-55 | 49-55 | 49-55 |
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Fintft
G.O.A.T.
Sorry, my missunderstanding reading about "an unusually low launch angle for a 16/19. A touch more hot-spotty ".
Thanks again!
I'll get the 18x20 also b/c is about $140 new.
@galapagos as well and other owners of TF40s:
I'm still don't know which one(if any) between 305 and 315 would be easier to customize it(leather grip and led) to have a bit more sw and weight than the Doppio.
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TennisManiac
Hall of Fame
The 305 will have more room for customization.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
grip B is like Wilson/Babolat (maybe slightly smaller but keep the same size IMO). Avoid grip A - For me it is even more "traditional" rectangular grip shape than Tecnifibre. I had to put 2 overgrips to feel more at home. Grip C is nice too, supposed to be like Prince but can't confirm it. I had it in my hands. Felt nice as well.
@dandan.tennis
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
if you plan to add leather then 305 is a clear winner for me. I am not a huge leather fan so I choose the specs as close as possible to my final destination. Even though my ex coach is putting leather on his 320g/310mm prestige frames
I might give it a try on my TF40 315. Can be interesting.@dandan.tennis
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RF_PRO_STAFF
Professional
Agree, it is slightly smaller but not enough to go up in grip size.
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
I seem to remember not liking leather either, but it's an easy mod and I use overgrips as well, so, it may not matter.if you plan to add leather then 305 is a clear winner for me. I am not a huge leather fan so I choose the specs as close as possible to my final destination. Even though my ex coach is putting leather on his 320g/310mm prestige frames
@dandan.tennis
For now I am getting tungsten tape to try to add some 3g at 12 o'clock on my Doppios as per @JGads and Tennisnerd.
I'm postoping buying the TF40s, not only b/c of the almost $400, but also b/c I know that I'll also order more stuff..
galapagos
Hall of Fame
tournament time!
taking with me 2x TF40 (Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @20/20kg and Mayami prototype string 1.30 @20/20kg), 2x TC95 (Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg and Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @24/23kg ) and Tecnifibre Iga Tempo (Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg).
Something will have to work right?
@dandan.tennis
taking with me 2x TF40 (Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @20/20kg and Mayami prototype string 1.30 @20/20kg), 2x TC95 (Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg and Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @24/23kg ) and Tecnifibre Iga Tempo (Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg).
Something will have to work right?
@dandan.tennis
Happi
Hall of Fame
How come that you string 4kg higher in TC95 compared to TF40 ?tournament time!
taking with me 2x TF40 (Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @20/20kg and Mayami prototype string 1.30 @20/20kg), 2x TC95 (Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg and Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @24/23kg ) and Tecnifibre Iga Tempo (Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg).
Something will have to work right?
@dandan.tennis
galapagos
Hall of Fame
TF40 is much more control oriented, tighter string pattern, less power, lower launch angle. I tried Silver 7 Tour 1.30 at 22/21 in TF40 and it was too tight. In general I think TF40 likes 1.25 gauges more. But I like it that way with lower tension as well.
I could string it 21/20 maybe as I am a bit worried about the tension drop
galapagos
Hall of Fame
ya. I agree. but also depends on tension. In Angell I could feel a small "boost" from time to time. Overall huge control but it can hit mean from time to time
I respect it mainly for the control it provides. One of the best next to Luxilon Original 1.30 and probably Solinco Tour Bite (haven't tried 1.30 gauge from tour bite)Good luck! Why no RS?tournament time!
taking with me 2x TF40 (Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @20/20kg and Mayami prototype string 1.30 @20/20kg), 2x TC95 (Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg and Silver 7 Tour 1.30 @24/23kg ) and Tecnifibre Iga Tempo (Razor Code 1.25 @24/24kg).
Something will have to work right?
@dandan.tennis
galapagos
Hall of Fame
I decided to switch from RS to TF40 as it's faster and gives me more spin for almost the same control. It's also easier to customize TF40 to my specs.
edit: I still have Angells but might sell them all depending how my results will look like after a while. I have no expectations for now. (already sold one TC95 and still have 3 of them left)
Boubi
Professional
Beware of the speed pro 2022 (i would rate it 7.6 would it volley better - maybe a string issue though) and possibly the new prince tour !
Wheelz
Hall of Fame
Is that a positive beware ? 7.6 sounds excellent on the @galapagos scale!
Wheelz
Hall of Fame
Ive been playing for a while with speed pro. I like how I can construct my point and open up the court. I’m consistent and confident. Then I try the blade v7 16x19 and feel like a bully. Heavy ball but not as trusty to open the court as the speed pro. Blade so far is nice on serve. I wonder if the v7 18x20 would be a nice spot for me but it averages at 334sw which is ok but QC could be more. I like 330-332sw.
also have UT at my specs with Tourna 1.25 at 42. It’s very nice but I think it might be more of a faster court stick than a slow court long rally stick.
I don’t know why I’m trying when the speed pro seems perfect but the Blade does feel nice. All well reviewed by le Galapagos
They pretty much all have the same spec. 336g, 32.4 and 330-332sw.
also have UT at my specs with Tourna 1.25 at 42. It’s very nice but I think it might be more of a faster court stick than a slow court long rally stick.
I don’t know why I’m trying when the speed pro seems perfect but the Blade does feel nice. All well reviewed by le Galapagos
They pretty much all have the same spec. 336g, 32.4 and 330-332sw.
