Boubi
Professional
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Ultimate string of choice !
- Thread starter galapagos
- Start date
galapagos
Hall of Fame
yap, its a bit more control oriented than red code which i also like a lot. I would string RS305 with 1.25 gauge at 23kg MAX. Medvedev is stringing 22 kg for example.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25 and 1.30 review !
One of the best round strings on the market. I tested the white colored version and it's the most control oriented Tecnifibre string.
Take Tecnifibre Ice Code and add more control, take away some power and you end up with more spin potential due to added confidence. Take Signum Pro Firestorm and add firmer, more connected feel.All together you are getting Tecnifibre Razor Code.
It's right there sitting on the same shelf with Luxilon Alu Power and Luxilon Original. It plays like a stiffer string but you don't feel any harshness. When I tested 1.25 gauge in Tecnifibre RS305 racquet it felt like butter. I was astonished because despite the comfort the response was rather dead and very low powered (no trampoline effect). Of course foam filled racquet played its part but big wow.
1.30 gauge felt much stiffer as expected from a thicker gauge but nothing alerting.
It's the string that I can easily pick for both hard courts and clay matches. Signum Pro Firestorm is amazing on hard but can be a bit too springy on clay during summer. Razor Code is much more consistent. It has less initial power than Mayami Hit Pro. So I think it is a bit closer to Luxilon Original in terms of feel and response. Closer than Hit Pro which has some added omph similar to Alu Power and this can be good or bad depending on your expectations.
You already know I love Tecnifibre Red Code. Razor Code suits me better (better combination with heavier sticks while Red Code suits lighter sticks unless you want absolute control)
Still - spin potential is not the standout feature and its completely normal for a round profile. But lower powered response and control gives me everything I expect from such string. Flat hitters and tacticians and all-around players will love this.
Durabiltity and playability duration outstanding. I keep playing and playing and playing and I only like it more. I now know why Medvedev isn't so picky with his tensions (he prefers to play with one racquet during the whole match) because you can easily adapt to performance with tension loss. He is stringing his RS305 at 22kg and I think its a great starting point for 18x19 pattern or 18x20. 16x19 not sure as I haven't tried it yet but I think Iga Swiatek is stringing at similar tensions.
My tension was 24kg/23kg 1.30 in angell tc95 16x19 (foam filled) and 23kg/23kg 1.25 in Tecnifibre RS305 (foam filled as well!) . I could string both a bit lower maybe...
Conclusion - no trampoline effect even at lower tensions, amazing control and consistent response, playability duration and feel on top lvl. Next time I will string even lower as my backhand is adjusting to the string. Felt a bit too dead on that wing. My confidence is back with razor code and I am taking it for the tournament this weekend ! As expected, 1.30 gauge in 16x19 pattern was my favourite
Overall rating: 7.3 / 10
rest of the strings (click)
also if you are interested in my racquet reviews feel free to visit: http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/inde...ice-tournament-players-and-or-coaches.705277/
it seems I have too much time hah
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
One of the best round strings on the market. I tested the white colored version and it's the most control oriented Tecnifibre string.
Take Tecnifibre Ice Code and add more control, take away some power and you end up with more spin potential due to added confidence. Take Signum Pro Firestorm and add firmer, more connected feel.All together you are getting Tecnifibre Razor Code.
It's right there sitting on the same shelf with Luxilon Alu Power and Luxilon Original. It plays like a stiffer string but you don't feel any harshness. When I tested 1.25 gauge in Tecnifibre RS305 racquet it felt like butter. I was astonished because despite the comfort the response was rather dead and very low powered (no trampoline effect). Of course foam filled racquet played its part but big wow.
1.30 gauge felt much stiffer as expected from a thicker gauge but nothing alerting.
It's the string that I can easily pick for both hard courts and clay matches. Signum Pro Firestorm is amazing on hard but can be a bit too springy on clay during summer. Razor Code is much more consistent. It has less initial power than Mayami Hit Pro. So I think it is a bit closer to Luxilon Original in terms of feel and response. Closer than Hit Pro which has some added omph similar to Alu Power and this can be good or bad depending on your expectations.
You already know I love Tecnifibre Red Code. Razor Code suits me better (better combination with heavier sticks while Red Code suits lighter sticks unless you want absolute control)
Still - spin potential is not the standout feature and its completely normal for a round profile. But lower powered response and control gives me everything I expect from such string. Flat hitters and tacticians and all-around players will love this.
Durabiltity and playability duration outstanding. I keep playing and playing and playing and I only like it more. I now know why Medvedev isn't so picky with his tensions (he prefers to play with one racquet during the whole match) because you can easily adapt to performance with tension loss. He is stringing his RS305 at 22kg and I think its a great starting point for 18x19 pattern or 18x20. 16x19 not sure as I haven't tried it yet but I think Iga Swiatek is stringing at similar tensions.
My tension was 24kg/23kg 1.30 in angell tc95 16x19 (foam filled) and 23kg/23kg 1.25 in Tecnifibre RS305 (foam filled as well!) . I could string both a bit lower maybe...
Conclusion - no trampoline effect even at lower tensions, amazing control and consistent response, playability duration and feel on top lvl. Next time I will string even lower as my backhand is adjusting to the string. Felt a bit too dead on that wing. My confidence is back with razor code and I am taking it for the tournament this weekend ! As expected, 1.30 gauge in 16x19 pattern was my favourite
Overall rating: 7.3 / 10
rest of the strings (click)
also if you are interested in my racquet reviews feel free to visit: http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/inde...ice-tournament-players-and-or-coaches.705277/
it seems I have too much time hah
say hello on IG !
@dandan.tennis
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Wheelz
Hall of Fame
What would you suggest in Pure aero 2019?
I’ve been enjoying reading your thread. Even strung firestorm for a client and he really likes it.
Looking for good spin, control and feel. Confidential and Lynx tour might still be my best bets. I used tourna silver tour last year and I remember liking it. That could be another contender.
I’ve been enjoying reading your thread. Even strung firestorm for a client and he really likes it.
Looking for good spin, control and feel. Confidential and Lynx tour might still be my best bets. I used tourna silver tour last year and I remember liking it. That could be another contender.
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
Thank you,
Mayami tour hex 1.28 maybe, tourna silver 7 tour great too but very control oriented (much more control than confidential but stiffer and less forgiving).
many are liking hyper g in their pure aero but i personaly dont like the feel of it. But its very performance oriented so can be a good start.
oh!! I know! Luxilon Alu power 1.30 blue colored (more comfortable) and luxilon original 1.30. Great for control and i found amazing spin potential with those and they are round so this is also Cool for feel.
Wheelz
Hall of Fame
I’m definitely looking for a budget reel since I’ll restring often with the pure aero so Solinco stuff is the highest I will go. I will debate for another go at Silver tour ! I’ve got a pack of hyper G waiting to test as well. Need to find an easy to get Mayami tour hex 1.28 to Canada
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
Ok, finished the tournament (reached finals and lost in supertiebreak 11/9 and had 2 match balls.....very painful experience especially when the opponent saved one match point after hitting the net...so very unlucky there but this is tennis !
I was swapping between Tecnifibre Razor Code, Tier 1 Black Knight, Signum Pro Firestorm and Luxilon Original (it's finally back in my rotation!)
Out of those I liked Tier 1 Black Knight the least. Let me tell you why.
TIER ONE BLACK KNIGHT REVIEW !
first it felt a bit refreshing to review a black string. It's been a while since I last had that color. Overall I got a bit bored of black but I must say I was feeling positive vibes with that one.
But the performance didn't wow me. I strung it at 24kg/23kg and I would say its more powerful than Volkl Cyclone and MSV Focus Hex and Dyrex Hexablast. In general it's the most powerful string in group C (6-sided strings). With power there comes not enough spin (at least with my technique) so I wasnt getting much confidence. Some say it plays a bit more like a round string and I would agree. But at the same time there are some round strings that offered me more spin (probably due to stiffer,slower response).
SO the ball was a bit launching on me before I managed to import spin. of course this is also technical issue from me not the string itself. All strings in the lineup are stiffer (besides firestorm) so obviously there are some differences in control and feel.
Ok so lets take another shaped string that plays similar to round profiles. Solinco Confidential - this string offered much more spin potential and control (within those first 6 hours).
So for who is this string ? I would say its great if you want something cheap and comfortable. At the same time I feel like there are better options with more spin potential and STILL similar comfort. From black strings my favourite are still Volkl Cyclone and Dyreex Hexablast and I think the price is quite similar ?
Not impressed but maybe the performance would change a lot if I strung it 24/24. BUT HEY ! I try all the strings with same tension to catch the reference !
Overall rating: 6.1 - comfortable but not enough spin and control for my game. Kinda cool on defense and the sweet spot is nice. Just not my style and doesnt have any standout feature to be competitive among some other of my ultimates. Maybe works totally different in other frames. Angell TC95 is a very tricky racket to find a good string.
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
link to all ultimate strings (click)
I was swapping between Tecnifibre Razor Code, Tier 1 Black Knight, Signum Pro Firestorm and Luxilon Original (it's finally back in my rotation!)
Out of those I liked Tier 1 Black Knight the least. Let me tell you why.
TIER ONE BLACK KNIGHT REVIEW !
first it felt a bit refreshing to review a black string. It's been a while since I last had that color. Overall I got a bit bored of black but I must say I was feeling positive vibes with that one.
But the performance didn't wow me. I strung it at 24kg/23kg and I would say its more powerful than Volkl Cyclone and MSV Focus Hex and Dyrex Hexablast. In general it's the most powerful string in group C (6-sided strings). With power there comes not enough spin (at least with my technique) so I wasnt getting much confidence. Some say it plays a bit more like a round string and I would agree. But at the same time there are some round strings that offered me more spin (probably due to stiffer,slower response).
SO the ball was a bit launching on me before I managed to import spin. of course this is also technical issue from me not the string itself. All strings in the lineup are stiffer (besides firestorm) so obviously there are some differences in control and feel.
Ok so lets take another shaped string that plays similar to round profiles. Solinco Confidential - this string offered much more spin potential and control (within those first 6 hours).
So for who is this string ? I would say its great if you want something cheap and comfortable. At the same time I feel like there are better options with more spin potential and STILL similar comfort. From black strings my favourite are still Volkl Cyclone and Dyreex Hexablast and I think the price is quite similar ?
Not impressed but maybe the performance would change a lot if I strung it 24/24. BUT HEY ! I try all the strings with same tension to catch the reference !
Overall rating: 6.1 - comfortable but not enough spin and control for my game. Kinda cool on defense and the sweet spot is nice. Just not my style and doesnt have any standout feature to be competitive among some other of my ultimates. Maybe works totally different in other frames. Angell TC95 is a very tricky racket to find a good string.
say hello on IG !
@dandan.tennislink to all ultimate strings (click)
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Injured Again
Hall of Fame
Hey, @galapagos I don't remember ever seeing any video of you hitting. Seeing video really helps me understand if your string impressions might be applicable to my game. Have you ever posted any?
galapagos
Hall of Fame
I have not but i might one day ! Its hard not to like some of the strings even if we can have different lvl or style. Racquet is always a tip also + a reference ratings of other strings we like together.
Injured Again
Hall of Fame
You've tried more strings recently than I have and while we have similar impressions about some strings, on others we differ fairly significantly. Just trying to figure out why. It sems like more than differences in racquets because where we seem to differ is in things like launch angle and spin capability, but in other stei gs we don't. That leads me to think it's a stroke production difference.
I've been stringing for a few decades and always seem to be able to make accurate recommendations once I've seem the player in action, even if they play quite differently than I do. That's why I asked if you had any video posted.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Yeah, of course everything matters. I am normaly 18x20 that is playing with 16x19 for 2 years now. With 18x20 I was stringing much lower (like 21kg) and with 16x19 i am stringing 23 or 24 kg. With tighter mains you can brush up more, with widers you must make sure to lead the arm kinda more linear and then import spin from the finish and your base. I have slightly different experience on clay and hard courts because the reference contact point is changed and this has HUGE impact on performance. Thats why Medvedev is almost a king on hard but terrible on clay (and i remember an interesting interview with him saying how he is applying some technical solutions to play a bit better on clay so its crazy how everything is connected to each other).
for the reference i know i rated hyper g a bit lower than probably most here would but for example this string was my string of choice in blade for a while and in angells its simple not working right and messing up with the feel. if you asked angell users about hyper g then i am pretty sure most would Agree with my review.
So racquet, surface, even balls matters and where we live (attitude and average temperature) . on top of that there is a player with specific preferences.
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Injured Again
Hall of Fame
I guess we will have to agree to disagree in some respects. In my opinion, the playing surface has no impact on how a string performs. If you isolate the few moments before contact, the racquet and strings have no idea what surface the ball came off of. The ball will have a certain spin, velocity, and direction of travel such that if you got that same ball on a different surface and swung in the same way, the ball would go in the exact same direction whether you were on grass, hard courts, or clay.
Sure, you might try to hit the ball differently depending on the surface you play on, but that gets to my point that seeing video is valuable. You may even have different string and/or tension preferences on different surfaces, but again that is where I believe seeing video is valuable.
Looking forward to if you post some video. I know it would make the information you post a lot more meaningful than it already is.
Sure, you might try to hit the ball differently depending on the surface you play on, but that gets to my point that seeing video is valuable. You may even have different string and/or tension preferences on different surfaces, but again that is where I believe seeing video is valuable.
Looking forward to if you post some video. I know it would make the information you post a lot more meaningful than it already is.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Of course strings and racquet dont know on what surface you are playing. I am just saying that contact point changes a bit here and there. Or at least its harder to hit the ball on clay at the same height with the same feel you are hitting on hards and contact point determines performance. Also the force of impact changes on hard its more linear and on clay its a bit more upwards hence its harder to „time” the ball at the same height and thats why Nadal is a king of clay. Its not only that he is hitting fast, its (ball bounce) also making it harder for others to hit the quality shot - he is messing with players timing and striking zone (destroying their rhythm)
And also thats why Nadal pre hard court season is also working on his swing to make it a bit lower than on clay. Because different things are working there better. Of course its hard to change the „DNA” of your tennis but you can for sure make some small adjustments.
Happi
Hall of Fame
Strings are such a personal preference, and to me it makes no sense posting video of how a player is hitting, I often get very disappointed when watching fellow TT members playing as I imagine they would play much much better (yes, I know from watching myself that video can be misleading if you don't know how to video your self).
@galapagos while we can agree on racquets, I also like the feel of Angell TC95 both 16x19 and 18x20, we differ in the string department. I am much more into soft polys and even FB multis strung low. I have found that it is hard to follow most advice given here, I have purchased so many strings here after reading raving reviews just to be totally disappointed and have the opposite opinion. Hell everyone here is raving about gut / poly hybrid, and I personally don't like the combination of a soft and stiff string, I like much better a soft poly strung low or a FB multi like X-One. So while I enjoy your findings of strings, I know that I will most likely not agree as I like a different feel of my string bed.
You seem to go Angell TC95 16x19 stiffer 1.30 polys and string medium tension (23-24kg) to get the control you like, I on the other hand use TC95 18x20 soft 1.20 or 1.15 poly strung low (17-18kg) and that seem to be my sweet spot in getting the feel and control that I like. So 2 very different setup. However on clay I sometimes prefer TC95 16x19 to get a higher launch angle.
I appreciate, enjoy and understand your string quest, I am also currently testing strings and getting close to my top 5 that currently is: Alupower 1.15, VCT 1.18, CyberFlash 1.20, GW 1.10 and with multi I like X-one 1.25 and a hybrid of Rip Control / Velocity.
Firestorm 1.20 is next on my poly list, and Gosen AK pro CX on my multi list.
Great thread BTW,
Cheers, H
galapagos
Hall of Fame
thank you, i really appreciate kind words ! Lower tensions seem to improve spin potential from my experience but always tricky if the added spin potential is giving enough control to kinda tame the bigger "power potential". I think you should like firestorm so can't wait to hear your opinion on that. Firestorm to me is the most comfortable string on the list YET gives enough control and spin potential. One of the best. And I love the color
and ye i usually pick stiffer strings but this one I can really tolerate. I love it on hard courts as well and it offers amazing second serve. My sparing partner now switched to it after recommendation and he was using solinco tour bite soft and luxilon 4f soft before that.boulderchips
Rookie
I tried Firestorm and Razor Code 125 this week, based in part on reading this thread. Basically agree with everything written about both, although I never quite got dialed in with Firestorm. A bit too springy for me? Also, @blai212 is right, durability is poor.
Hit with Razor Code tonight and loved it. Great control, decent spin, not as uncomfortable as I expected. Crisp and connected, but not harsh. Really fun.
Also fully agree on Poly Tour Pro — I've disliked it everywhere I've tried it except in the Ezone 98, where it is oddly excellent. @galapagos, many thanks for all the work you put in here.
Hit with Razor Code tonight and loved it. Great control, decent spin, not as uncomfortable as I expected. Crisp and connected, but not harsh. Really fun.
Also fully agree on Poly Tour Pro — I've disliked it everywhere I've tried it except in the Ezone 98, where it is oddly excellent. @galapagos, many thanks for all the work you put in here.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
thank you sir ! Yes, firestorm has the biggest amount of power. I am not sure I would call it springy but I totally understand why you feel it that way because it's comfortable and soft and the ball is kinda sinking in the strings. To me springy is when the ball shots off too fast from the string before I manage to import spin or direction. Babolat frames are usually "fast and springy" BUT of course its not good or bad. I would say players with fast, wristy strokes will prefer faster response - "springy". I am more traditional and I focus on follow through more than on "fast snappy finish"
and yes, Razor Code is very similar to Firestorm without the power factor. Slightly stiffer and if we compare response times then ok, firestorm compared to razor code can be called springy haha ;p Have you tried white or blue colored version ?
galapagos
Hall of Fame
confidential is great in that respect. Probably a reference string for a shaped poly with a round nature yet higher spin potential. I would say also Solinco Tour Bite Soft and all strings from group C (6 sided strings) with Mayami Tour Hex being my favourite. Tier One Black Knight has very similar response to round profiles but so much that I don't feel any spin potential advantage over the round profiles.
I really liked Tourna Silver 7 Tour. I wouldnt say it plays like round string but at the same time it's very consistent in spin production. Its sometimes a bit springy despite very low powered nature.
@boulderchips you can try silver 7 tour to kinda see what i mean by saying springy. Even with low powered string (almost dead and boardy to be honest) but there are some shots where the ball just takes off with added power and it was not your intention to do so. Fortunately it's not so big and overall I love the string but ye, this one thing could be improved.
Firestorm has very consistent response although I agree it's above average in power compared to other control oriented strings.
Good test is to try some lobs with the string. If you can adjust to the response and feel of the ball then it's ok. If you hit one ball too short and another too long with pretty much the same motion then maybe the response is too springy.
Gala ,
Have you tried Tour Hex 1.28? I think ll get my friend to test Confidential 16 - Tour Hex 16 and Razor Code white 16 with Extreme Mp 2021. Which one you think will make the racquet work?
galapagos
Hall of Fame
i have not but soon... tough choice ! I think I would start with Tour Hex 1.28, then Razor Code and then Confidential. Confidential last because it drops tension fast and in racquet like Extreme MP it can become too powerful.
boulderchips
Rookie
You're right, maybe springy isn't the best word. It felt a little...vague? I had less confidence at big moments. Usually I like a soft string, but for some reason I didn't get along with Firestorm. That might be racquet-dependent, and I can see why you rated it highly. The comfort and pop are really nice.
I have Razor Code white, and I'm seriously considering switching to it. But before I do, up next I'm trying Hit Pro, Magic Twist, and Tour Hex
‘ball pocketing’ is the term for when the ball sinks into string bed…I love strings with good pocketing. One of my current favorite setups is black knight/cream
galapagos
Hall of Fame
in theory the same, in reality hard to say.. i didnt have opportunity to try the blue one.
great review @galapagosTecnifibre Razor Code 1.25 and 1.30 review !
One of the best round strings on the market. I tested the white colored version and it's the most control oriented Tecnifibre string.
Take Tecnifibre Ice Code and add more control, take away some power and you end up with more spin potential due to added confidence. Take Signum Pro Firestorm and add firmer, more connected feel.All together you are getting Tecnifibre Razor Code.
It's right there sitting on the same shelf with Luxilon Alu Power and Luxilon Original. It plays like a stiffer string but you don't feel any harshness. When I tested 1.25 gauge in Tecnifibre RS305 racquet it felt like butter. I was astonished because despite the comfort the response was rather dead and very low powered (no trampoline effect). Of course foam filled racquet played its part but big wow.
1.30 gauge felt much stiffer as expected from a thicker gauge but nothing alerting.
It's the string that I can easily pick for both hard courts and clay matches. Signum Pro Firestorm is amazing on hard but can be a bit too springy on clay during summer. Razor Code is much more consistent. It has less initial power than Mayami Hit Pro. So I think it is a bit closer to Luxilon Original in terms of feel and response. Closer than Hit Pro which has some added omph similar to Alu Power and this can be good or bad depending on your expectations.
You already know I love Tecnifibre Red Code. Razor Code suits me better (better combination with heavier sticks while Red Code suits lighter sticks unless you want absolute control)
Still - spin potential is not the standout feature and its completely normal for a round profile. But lower powered response and control gives me everything I expect from such string. Flat hitters and tacticians and all-around players will love this.
Durabiltity and playability duration outstanding. I keep playing and playing and playing and I only like it more. I now know why Medvedev isn't so picky with his tensions (he prefers to play with one racquet during the whole match) because you can easily adapt to performance with tension loss. He is stringing his RS305 at 22kg and I think its a great starting point for 18x19 pattern or 18x20. 16x19 not sure as I haven't tried it yet but I think Iga Swiatek is stringing at similar tensions.
My tension was 24kg/23kg 1.30 in angell tc95 16x19 (foam filled) and 23kg/23kg 1.25 in Tecnifibre RS305 (foam filled as well!) . I could string both a bit lower maybe...
Conclusion - no trampoline effect even at lower tensions, amazing control and consistent response, playability duration and feel on top lvl. Next time I will string even lower as my backhand is adjusting to the string. Felt a bit too dead on that wing. My confidence is back with razor code and I am taking it for the tournament this weekend ! As expected, 1.30 gauge in 16x19 pattern was my favourite
Overall rating: 7.3 / 10
rest of the strings (click)
also if you are interested in my racquet reviews feel free to visit: http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/inde...ice-tournament-players-and-or-coaches.705277/
it seems I have too much time hah
I use a tf40 305 (slightly modified to make it more HL static 313g) and have been on the quest to find my perfect round poly - I wanted 1.2 gauge or less (opens up the dense pattern), lots of predictable control and crisp feel (not mushy like ptp for example). I've been testing for a bit now (nothing like your project) and so far my favourites are Head Hawk 1.2, Razor Code 1.2, and Kirshbaum Evolution 1.2. https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/ind...table-1-2-gauge-or-less.707023/#post-15715045
Talking of Razor Code, I found the carbon version to be more control oriented and crisper than the white version. The TW review of the white (2019) actually says that it plays similar to the blue. The previous TW (2013) review of Razor Code both Chris and Andy found the carbon to be more control oriented than the blue. Personally, I found Razor code 1.2 white to be pretty similar to Ice code 1.2 - a bit more control bit less power but otherwise very very similar in terms of feel. The carbon Razor code is just crisper and has more control.
Having read your entire thread (which is fantastic!) my feeling is that you will prefer Razor code in carbon.
PS: Test Head Hawk imo - feels so predictable and the sound when connecting with a forehand is something else... Karatsev like.
I tested Head Hawk 1.2 in the silver/grey colour - has anyone tried the white version? if so, does it play different to the grey? Thanks!Come on guys,great review @galapagos
I use a tf40 305 (slightly modified to make it more HL static 313g) and have been on the quest to find my perfect round poly - I wanted 1.2 gauge or less (opens up the dense pattern), lots of predictable control and crisp feel (not mushy like ptp for example). I've been testing for a bit now (nothing like your project) and so far my favourites are Head Hawk 1.2, Razor Code 1.2, and Kirshbaum Evolution 1.2. https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/ind...table-1-2-gauge-or-less.707023/#post-15715045
Talking of Razor Code, I found the carbon version to be more control oriented and crisper than the white version. The TW review of the white (2019) actually says that it plays similar to the blue. The previous TW (2013) review of Razor Code both Chris and Andy found the carbon to be more control oriented than the blue. Personally, I found Razor code 1.2 white to be pretty similar to Ice code 1.2 - a bit more control bit less power but otherwise very very similar in terms of feel. The carbon Razor code is just crisper and has more control.
Having read your entire thread (which is fantastic!) my feeling is that you will prefer Razor code in carbon.
PS: Test Head Hawk imo - feels so predictable and the sound when connecting with a forehand is something else... Karatsev like.
Everybody's game here is so perfect that they will understand the difference between colors of the same string...White is similar to carbon which is similar to blue. It's the same string and the differences between colors are so minimal that no one in TT can understand , maybe a pro but here...come on. It just happens that you may played better the given day that you tried carbon hence you attribute better consistency and control to the color...
I'm not that good but I could do a blind test between the Razor Code white and the carbon, just feelwise the carbon is more crisp. I'm not even talking about outcomes. Andy and Chirs from TW aren't pros and they both felt a clear difference between blue and carbon.
X one biphase is another string (multi) where the colours make a pretty big difference to feel. Anyway, my two cents.
I am no pro but I currently play with Lynx Tour in champagne and orange and yes I can spot the difference between the two.
Pros are on another planet; they can feel a the difference between paint jobs on their racquets...
galapagos
Hall of Fame
@axech91 asked me to compare Tourna S7T, razor code & lynx tour so here we go
Tourna silver 7 tour offer biggest spin potential and has the lowest power of them all
Lynx Tour is similarly stiff but ready to go from the start. Silver 7 has at least for me a breakin period.
HOWEVER lynx tour is a bit heavier string (2grams+/-) . so my already heavy sticks became even heavier and makes no sense to me to switch because there is mayami tour hex that offers me even more performance but similar DNA yet in a lighter package (average weight)
Razor Code is stiff similar to Lynx Tour I think but offers more feel with less spin potential. Round strings are great for going back to fundamentals of tennis. Shaped are kinda like fast food. You love it but later you have a belly xd jokes aside there are some great shaped strings that hold playability duration and dont exaggerate spin.
Overall I think Tourna Silver 7 Tour,Lynx Tour and Tour Hex are great examples of increased spin potential but with great feel and touch of the "round profile family"
For me Tourna Silver 7 Tour >= Razor Code (depending on my needs or racquet) > Lynx Tour
I also tried 1.25 silver 7 tour and didnt like it as much as 1.30 gauge. 1.25 is kinda dead with slightly higher launch. I didn't understand it as much as 1.30 gauge or Razor Code in both versions.
Tourna silver 7 tour offer biggest spin potential and has the lowest power of them all
Lynx Tour is similarly stiff but ready to go from the start. Silver 7 has at least for me a breakin period.
HOWEVER lynx tour is a bit heavier string (2grams+/-) . so my already heavy sticks became even heavier and makes no sense to me to switch because there is mayami tour hex that offers me even more performance but similar DNA yet in a lighter package (average weight)
Razor Code is stiff similar to Lynx Tour I think but offers more feel with less spin potential. Round strings are great for going back to fundamentals of tennis. Shaped are kinda like fast food. You love it but later you have a belly xd jokes aside there are some great shaped strings that hold playability duration and dont exaggerate spin.
Overall I think Tourna Silver 7 Tour,Lynx Tour and Tour Hex are great examples of increased spin potential but with great feel and touch of the "round profile family"
For me Tourna Silver 7 Tour >= Razor Code (depending on my needs or racquet) > Lynx Tour
I also tried 1.25 silver 7 tour and didnt like it as much as 1.30 gauge. 1.25 is kinda dead with slightly higher launch. I didn't understand it as much as 1.30 gauge or Razor Code in both versions.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
another session with Razor Code, this time instead of 24kg/23kg i will try 24kg/22kg. Its a tecnifibre celebration week with Medvedev string of choice lol.
As a backup I have Luxilon Original in another racquet.
Razor replaced Signum Pro Firestorm as it became too lively now.
I am getting closer to my final verdicts !
So far I can say this:
clay changes the experience a lot I need versatile string for both surfaces. On hard courts I am actually less fussy
As a backup I have Luxilon Original in another racquet.
Razor replaced Signum Pro Firestorm as it became too lively now.
I am getting closer to my final verdicts !
So far I can say this:
clay changes the experience a lot
I need versatile string for both surfaces. On hard courts I am actually less fussy
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Ok so Just finished my match and i can say DO NOT string razor code with 2kg difference on crosses. Its bad. I had to take out the stick with original. Razor code you can string it low but with even tension. 22kg/22kg or 23 or 24. Eventually 24/23.another session with Razor Code, this time instead of 24kg/23kg i will try 24kg/22kg. Its a tecnifibre celebration week with Medvedev string of choice lol.
As a backup I have Luxilon Original in another racquet.
Razor replaced Signum Pro Firestorm as it became too lively now.
I am getting closer to my final verdicts !
So far I can say this:
clay changes the experience a lot
bonus conclusion:
I found out that its connected with energy return of the string. If its above 85% then dont string crosses looser than 1kg.Otherwise the ball will be too jumpy with crazy high launch angle.
Original was strung 24/23 and in the past i had it 25/23.
@axech91 asked me to compare Tourna S7T, razor code & lynx tour so here we go
Tourna silver 7 tour offer biggest spin potential and has the lowest power of them all
Lynx Tour is similarly stiff but ready to go from the start. Silver 7 has at least for me a breakin period.
HOWEVER lynx tour is a bit heavier string (2grams+/-) . so my already heavy sticks became even heavier and makes no sense to me to switch because there is mayami tour hex that offers me even more performance but similar DNA yet in a lighter package (average weight)
Razor Code is stiff similar to Lynx Tour I think but offers more feel with less spin potential. Round strings are great for going back to fundamentals of tennis. Shaped are kinda like fast food. You love it but later you have a belly xd jokes aside there are some great shaped strings that hold playability duration and dont exaggerate spin.
Overall I think Tourna Silver 7 Tour,Lynx Tour and Tour Hex are great examples of increased spin potential but with great feel and touch of the "round profile family"
For me Tourna Silver 7 Tour >= Razor Code (depending on my needs or racquet) > Lynx Tour
I also tried 1.25 silver 7 tour and didnt like it as much as 1.30 gauge. 1.25 is kinda dead with slightly higher launch. I didn't understand it as much as 1.30 gauge or Razor Code in both versions.
Hey,
how did you find tension maintenance with Lynx Tour and Razor Code (both 1.30). Confidential 1.30 doesn't seem to lose tension that much , but I ll wait and see after the 6 hours mark in which Confidential 1.25 gets too much power.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
yap, for me Confidential was completely different after those 6 hours. Not even close to how it plays fresh. So much more power, more forgiveness I can see how people can like it in Yonex frames that are very light and tend to be unstable at that weight. Confidential should open up the yonex a bit in a positive way.
Lynx Tour and Razor Code are much more stiffer so you kinda don't notice the drop so much. I would say playability duration is the longest with Lynx Tour. Razor Code is becoming a bit springy. Launch angle increases over time for me maybe not so much the power lvl if that makes sense. So it kinda looses launch angle control but the power lvl is still on a lower side.
Lynx Tour has a very long playability duration. I hate the fact that it is heavier than average string so overall it will not be my pick.
Lynx Tour and Razor Code play very similar on my backhand. They are both kinda dead. Confidential is more "ready" from the start.
Spin Diesel
Hall of Fame
Lynx Tour is one of my favourite strings!
What I noticed though about it’s great playability duration: At some point, when it still plays very good, it can be quite a bit more tough on the arm!
What I noticed though about it’s great playability duration: At some point, when it still plays very good, it can be quite a bit more tough on the arm!
One more on Lynx Tour ,
did you find Lynx Tour 1.30 to be thicker than the actual 1.30s? I mean , is it like 1.32??
galapagos
Hall of Fame
maybe because the launch angle was slightly lower than with other 1.30 i tried. but on clay i didnt experience that.
so i would say - i dont know ;p
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Time for the Mayami Hepta Power 1.24 review !
I tested this string in Tecnifibre T-Rebound 298 Iga Swiatek signature racquet and I am very happy with the results so far.
First - it's very comfortable. It's as comfortable as strings like Signum Pro Firestorm or Tier One Black Knight. At least in this foam filled beauty.
It's a bit like Big Spin but the launch is more linear and the control on volleys is much better. It's not a spin monster like Big Spin but instead your touch shots should be better.
Before my review I asked few people about their opinion and many claimed similar experience. Very comfortable, slightly powerful but at the same time with great control (because its more linear)- that was coming from the gravity pro user and I think it's a perfect combination for this stick.
From all Mayami strings I tried, it offered biggest amount of power with biggest comfort as well. I strung the racquet at 24kg for a reference. It's a bit like Solinco Confidential after the breakin period. Very soft and linear spin potential. So I think people with Gravity, Prestige, all Yonex frames and all frames below 305 grams will like Hepta Power. Frames should feel much better.
I also met opinions that it's similar to RPM Blast. Well I have only tried RPM Blast Rough 1.30 gauge so not completely true comparison BUT I think RPM Blast is much much much more stiffer, boardy response and lower powered.
It's closer to Volkl Cyclone but again with softer feel, better touch and more power. Tier One kinda felt similar with the comfort but Hepta power had bigger sweet spot and better spin potential.
So maybe the perfect comparison would be Tecnifibre Black Code which I heard is on a softer, more comfortable side? Unfortunately I haven't tested it but sounds like a good competition for the Black Code especially if we compare the prices. They even have same gauges.
It's the softest string in my Group D (7+sided strings). Maybe Volkl Cyclone Tour would be the perfect comparison ? I dont know. It's not completely my type as I usually use stiff strings and low powered. I appreciate comfort especially when I'm coaching. That's how my love to Signum Pro Firestorm developed....
Conclusion : very comfortable string with linear launch and great spin potential. Despite bigger power I could still control it and I appreciated bigger sweet spot.
Good if you want to "wake up" the racquet a bit and make the frame overall easier to perform.
Not for you if you seek ultimate control or expect a loopy spin up and down like Nadal.
I use totally different frame and my needs are different. I wish there was a thicker gauge version available but even then I am not sure about the power lvl. Angell already is a bit powerful and its 16x19 but who knows as I enjoy Firestorm... Prestige, Blade, Gravity, Vcore users should try it. I give it a 7.0 rating for comfort, sweet spot and linear response with nice spin potential. It's not the best for powerful frames or with high launch angle so hope to see a thicker gauge in the future.
All Mayami strings compared:
1. Hit Pro - ultimate feel, great pocketing, very similar to Luxilon Original but slightly more power. I would like more spin potential but it's as expected from a round string overall.
----Biggest competition - Tecnifibre Razor Code, Luxilon Original
2. Big Spin - soft and low powered with crazy big spin potential. On groundstrokes its one of the best but not the best on volleys or 1st serve. Your mindset must be spin oriented and I am a flat hitter (but 1.30 big spin was working quite nice even for me and added confidence from this spin machine is appreciated)
----Biggest competition - maybe Solinco Hyper G
3. Tour Hex - biggest control, linear response,great touch. It's a bit like Hit Pro with slightly better spin. It's like a round poly with a shaped spin potential. I still need to try 1.28 gauge.
----Biggest competition - Tourna Silver 7 Tour, Solinco Confidential
4. Magic Twist - close to Tour Hex but slightly stiffer. You need more RHS to make this string work. The spin potential is maybe a bit bigger but the launch is also slightly less linear.
----Biggest competition - Babolat RPM Blast Rough, Signum Pro Tornado, MSV Focus Hex
5. Hepta Power - biggest comfort, biggest power but linear response closer to Tour Hex with spin potential closer to Magic Twist.
----Biggest competition - Volkl Cyclone (or maybe Volkl Cyclone Tour), Tecnifibre Black Code, Tier One Black Knight
rest of the strings (click)
cheers !
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
I tested this string in Tecnifibre T-Rebound 298 Iga Swiatek signature racquet and I am very happy with the results so far.
First - it's very comfortable. It's as comfortable as strings like Signum Pro Firestorm or Tier One Black Knight. At least in this foam filled beauty.
It's a bit like Big Spin but the launch is more linear and the control on volleys is much better. It's not a spin monster like Big Spin but instead your touch shots should be better.
Before my review I asked few people about their opinion and many claimed similar experience. Very comfortable, slightly powerful but at the same time with great control (because its more linear)- that was coming from the gravity pro user and I think it's a perfect combination for this stick.
From all Mayami strings I tried, it offered biggest amount of power with biggest comfort as well. I strung the racquet at 24kg for a reference. It's a bit like Solinco Confidential after the breakin period. Very soft and linear spin potential. So I think people with Gravity, Prestige, all Yonex frames and all frames below 305 grams will like Hepta Power. Frames should feel much better.
I also met opinions that it's similar to RPM Blast. Well I have only tried RPM Blast Rough 1.30 gauge so not completely true comparison BUT I think RPM Blast is much much much more stiffer, boardy response and lower powered.
It's closer to Volkl Cyclone but again with softer feel, better touch and more power. Tier One kinda felt similar with the comfort but Hepta power had bigger sweet spot and better spin potential.
So maybe the perfect comparison would be Tecnifibre Black Code which I heard is on a softer, more comfortable side? Unfortunately I haven't tested it but sounds like a good competition for the Black Code especially if we compare the prices. They even have same gauges.
It's the softest string in my Group D (7+sided strings). Maybe Volkl Cyclone Tour would be the perfect comparison ? I dont know. It's not completely my type as I usually use stiff strings and low powered. I appreciate comfort especially when I'm coaching. That's how my love to Signum Pro Firestorm developed....
Conclusion : very comfortable string with linear launch and great spin potential. Despite bigger power I could still control it and I appreciated bigger sweet spot.
Good if you want to "wake up" the racquet a bit and make the frame overall easier to perform.
Not for you if you seek ultimate control or expect a loopy spin up and down like Nadal.
I use totally different frame and my needs are different. I wish there was a thicker gauge version available but even then I am not sure about the power lvl. Angell already is a bit powerful and its 16x19 but who knows as I enjoy Firestorm... Prestige, Blade, Gravity, Vcore users should try it. I give it a 7.0 rating for comfort, sweet spot and linear response with nice spin potential. It's not the best for powerful frames or with high launch angle so hope to see a thicker gauge in the future.
All Mayami strings compared:
1. Hit Pro - ultimate feel, great pocketing, very similar to Luxilon Original but slightly more power. I would like more spin potential but it's as expected from a round string overall.
----Biggest competition - Tecnifibre Razor Code, Luxilon Original
2. Big Spin - soft and low powered with crazy big spin potential. On groundstrokes its one of the best but not the best on volleys or 1st serve. Your mindset must be spin oriented and I am a flat hitter (but 1.30 big spin was working quite nice even for me and added confidence from this spin machine is appreciated)
----Biggest competition - maybe Solinco Hyper G
3. Tour Hex - biggest control, linear response,great touch. It's a bit like Hit Pro with slightly better spin. It's like a round poly with a shaped spin potential. I still need to try 1.28 gauge.
----Biggest competition - Tourna Silver 7 Tour, Solinco Confidential
4. Magic Twist - close to Tour Hex but slightly stiffer. You need more RHS to make this string work. The spin potential is maybe a bit bigger but the launch is also slightly less linear.
----Biggest competition - Babolat RPM Blast Rough, Signum Pro Tornado, MSV Focus Hex
5. Hepta Power - biggest comfort, biggest power but linear response closer to Tour Hex with spin potential closer to Magic Twist.
----Biggest competition - Volkl Cyclone (or maybe Volkl Cyclone Tour), Tecnifibre Black Code, Tier One Black Knight
rest of the strings (click)
cheers !
say hello on IG !
@dandan.tennis
Last edited:
Bought a half reel of Firestorm 1.25 on Amazon for as cheap as 30eur. Was intrigued to test this string after reading the review from @galapagos . And for this price it was the perfect occasion. I usually prefer 1.25 over 1.3. It gives me a better feel and I can let the stringbed work for me in some occasion.
I strung one my Angell TC95 16x19 at 23kg/22kg which is my reference tension.
I had one session yesterday evening with a friend of mine and one this morning with a coach. One word, wow. This string works very well with the TC95. The first thing I noticed is its comfort. It's a very comfortable string. It's relatively soft as per TWU string db, 198 lb/in and one can feel it immediately. I guess this is also the reason why the sweetspot seems a bit bigger and the racquet more forgiving. Off center shots are not as harsh as the same racquet strung with Lynx Tour for example. The second thing I noticed is the dwelling time. The string cups the ball and for a fraction of seconds, it gives you the feeling that you can do whatever you like with the ball, either hit it flat and let the string works for you and give some spin.
Talking about spin, it's round string so of course it doesn't bit the ball like a shaped string but still can produce decent rpm.
Power level is I guess a bit higher than Lynx Tour. Looking at Swingvision stats (to be taken with a big pinch of salt), average shot speed was 4% higher, average serve speed on ad side 5% higher and on deuce side 11% higher. Can be the string, can be anything else but it's noticeable and if it's the string I take it.
Control is there, but on this aspect, Lynx Tour is slightly better as expected. But again, I felt in control of my shots had the impression I can swing full speed.
Last point is the loss of tension, I don't know yet, I just have 2.5 hours with the string. So can't really say. But hey at 30eur for half a reel, it's not a big problem.
Bottom line, I think @galapagos review was spot on, this string doesn't get the love it deserves. It offers solid performance on a budget.
I strung one my Angell TC95 16x19 at 23kg/22kg which is my reference tension.
I had one session yesterday evening with a friend of mine and one this morning with a coach. One word, wow. This string works very well with the TC95. The first thing I noticed is its comfort. It's a very comfortable string. It's relatively soft as per TWU string db, 198 lb/in and one can feel it immediately. I guess this is also the reason why the sweetspot seems a bit bigger and the racquet more forgiving. Off center shots are not as harsh as the same racquet strung with Lynx Tour for example. The second thing I noticed is the dwelling time. The string cups the ball and for a fraction of seconds, it gives you the feeling that you can do whatever you like with the ball, either hit it flat and let the string works for you and give some spin.
Talking about spin, it's round string so of course it doesn't bit the ball like a shaped string but still can produce decent rpm.
Power level is I guess a bit higher than Lynx Tour. Looking at Swingvision stats (to be taken with a big pinch of salt), average shot speed was 4% higher, average serve speed on ad side 5% higher and on deuce side 11% higher. Can be the string, can be anything else but it's noticeable and if it's the string I take it.
Control is there, but on this aspect, Lynx Tour is slightly better as expected. But again, I felt in control of my shots had the impression I can swing full speed.
Last point is the loss of tension, I don't know yet, I just have 2.5 hours with the string. So can't really say. But hey at 30eur for half a reel, it's not a big problem.
Bottom line, I think @galapagos review was spot on, this string doesn't get the love it deserves. It offers solid performance on a budget.
sheenzhaox
New User
Tried Firestorm 130 recently, on Extreme Tour at 22/21kg. Same tension as used for Lynx Tour 125. Compared with LT, firestorm is obviously more powerful, but less spin and control. At the moment, Firestorm 130 is not my favourite.
Will try hybrid Firestorm 120 with Lynx Tour to see how it goes. It's a bit similar to Hawk Touch/Lynx Tour on paper, which plays really sweet.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
very happy to hear that !
galapagos
Hall of Fame
indeed hybrid sounds interesting. I get it why some people can prefer Lynx Tour over Firestorm. They are completely different. I prefer Firestorm. Maybe it suits more classic frame ? I sometimes describe strings as "performance booster". Easier to play straight away with more forgiveness. Firestorm is great ! Berrettini likes it.
Only waiting for mayami tour hex 1.28. Probably last string this year.
I will soon be able to tell everyone "It's a wrap !"
boulderchips
Rookie
I haven't tried BBO, but I'm going on the record that Razor Code is my favorite of the other top round strings. Tried Mayami Hit Pro tonight. The feel is addictive, but I got more spin and control with Razor Code. I do think I strung Hit Pro slightly too low — I did 49 lb, and I think it would be better in the 52-54 range. If forgiveness and comfort are priorities, Hit Pro is real nice.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
ye, razor code is lower powered and this enables to hit faster with more confidence and this creates spin potential. Hit Pro feel is much better while Razor Code a bit on a boardy side. Hard to say which one I like more. I think in 1.30 gauge I prefer Hit Pro but in 1.25 I prefer Razor Code.
