just wait a few weeks and it will feel perfect, hence why it’s good to have 7-10 racquets for demoing different strings/tension.
The true racquetholic in search of the holy grail.
Ultimate string of choice !
- Thread starter galapagos
- Start date
The true racquetholic in search of the holy grail.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Ok so Sinner lost and this makes Head Hawk Touch stay in my maybe list for a bit longer
how would you compare this string to some others from my list ?
liftordie
Hall of Fame
Your profile pic is very strange....Ok so Sinner lost and this makes Head Hawk Touch stay in my maybe list for a bit longer
how would you compare this string to some others from my list ?
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Ok time for the legendary LUXILON Alu Power !!!
This string is totally worth the hype. You know sometimes the final success is based on great marketing, sometimes on great product. With this string its both. I can see why so many pros stick to it. And its not only about the money they get for representing the brand. Luxilon Alu Power provides numbers !
So what is the secret behind this string ? Responsiveness !
This is probably most important trait for the string. How to create responsive round string without being mushy and/or too launchy (trampoline effect) with that high spin potential and still enough control ? Many have tried , all failed.
Responsiveness gives you spin potential ! Alu Power has the spin potential on par with most shaped strings. But Hey ! Do you remember why I respect round strings so much ? Because they are in general much more honest and consistent during a rally. You can learn the string, it's secrets and then you can unlock it whenever you want to (if you provide the technique and footwork). Shaped strings usually have their moods. Sometimes they can overgrab the ball and sometimes they are just too lazy to work with the ball (big generalization of course!)
But this string is IMO for developed players. I remember when I first tried this string as a junior. Back then I didn't really appreciate it. But also I didn't know what I want from the string or from my racquet. I didnt have the idea behind my gamestyle and equipment. Of course I was very competitive but very ignorant about what and why (equipment). Also if your technique and footwork are kinda random then I guess you will have better results with shaped strings as they are maybe slightly less consistent but if your technique/footwork is not consistent either then you better take that free spin potential at least.
Out of the box it's one of the best strings out there. Another reason why pros use it. They don't really care about the durability or string tension maintenance. They have to restring the racquet no matter what. In theory - if you are a very serious pro player you should change as little in your "match" equipment as possible vs "practice equipment" . So if you are playing each tournament game with fresh strings then you should practice with fresh strings as well. I have no idea how often pro players change their strings but I am pretty sure that some of them change their strings everyday. Some want it as fresh as possible, some maybe want some time before the restringing and their first match. No matter the player's habbit before the match - it should be also a habbit before each practice.... in a perfect world at least
and this is where alu power becomes very tricky...
1. Its one of the most expensive strings out there.
2. Its still not a "magic" string. It's just one of the best.
3. After a few training sessions I experience more power (too much for me) and then after another few sessions it slowly looses the power but also that responsiveness (power is back to where its ok for me but the spin is worse) and then after many more sessions it seems that I gain more spin but the feel is much worse. So as you can see there are many "zones" within just one string. For me - the best alu is the one that is fresh.
Additional observation - I really like the Ice Blue color version. It's a bit more comfortable I think. Slightly more power maybe.... Or maybe my brain is just playing games with me
1.25 version is pretty much what you expect from switching gauges. Nothing really different there. Slightly more power, slightly higher launch, bigger sweet spot, better bite, less tension stability and worse string durability. Of course i prefer 1.30 in my open 16x19 racquet and actually it increases the value of alu power imo.
I can have this string for a pretty good price but I have to rate it based on market value.
I should add that there is no place on court where this string will dissapoint. All mistakes on you ! I really like it on my 2nd serves too !
Tested this string in Angell TC95 16x19 and Angell TC100 16x19
launch angle as expected with 1.30 gauge. Very controllable - especially when fresh
comfort is good for me although after the tournament I had some minor elbow issues. (I won that tournament)
I give this string a... 7.2 rating - it's great out of the box and offers suprisingly big spin potential (competitive with shaped strings) while retaining the attributes of round profiles string. The price and string tension maintenance and playability duration make it slightly worse. My "golden window" where I play best with this string is quite short. Of course it's still great but for competitive matches I already found slightly better solutions Highly recommended ! 1.30 version in 16x19 patterns is really great and offers even better value !
go to strings list (click)
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
This string is totally worth the hype. You know sometimes the final success is based on great marketing, sometimes on great product. With this string its both. I can see why so many pros stick to it. And its not only about the money they get for representing the brand. Luxilon Alu Power provides numbers !
So what is the secret behind this string ? Responsiveness !
This is probably most important trait for the string. How to create responsive round string without being mushy and/or too launchy (trampoline effect) with that high spin potential and still enough control ? Many have tried , all failed.
Responsiveness gives you spin potential ! Alu Power has the spin potential on par with most shaped strings. But Hey ! Do you remember why I respect round strings so much ? Because they are in general much more honest and consistent during a rally. You can learn the string, it's secrets and then you can unlock it whenever you want to (if you provide the technique and footwork). Shaped strings usually have their moods. Sometimes they can overgrab the ball and sometimes they are just too lazy to work with the ball
(big generalization of course!)But this string is IMO for developed players. I remember when I first tried this string as a junior. Back then I didn't really appreciate it. But also I didn't know what I want from the string or from my racquet. I didnt have the idea behind my gamestyle and equipment. Of course I was very competitive but very ignorant about what and why (equipment). Also if your technique and footwork are kinda random then I guess you will have better results with shaped strings as they are maybe slightly less consistent but if your technique/footwork is not consistent either then you better take that free spin potential at least.
Out of the box it's one of the best strings out there. Another reason why pros use it. They don't really care about the durability or string tension maintenance. They have to restring the racquet no matter what. In theory - if you are a very serious pro player you should change as little in your "match" equipment as possible vs "practice equipment" . So if you are playing each tournament game with fresh strings then you should practice with fresh strings as well. I have no idea how often pro players change their strings but I am pretty sure that some of them change their strings everyday. Some want it as fresh as possible, some maybe want some time before the restringing and their first match. No matter the player's habbit before the match - it should be also a habbit before each practice.... in a perfect world at least
and this is where alu power becomes very tricky...
1. Its one of the most expensive strings out there.
2. Its still not a "magic" string. It's just one of the best.
3. After a few training sessions I experience more power (too much for me) and then after another few sessions it slowly looses the power but also that responsiveness (power is back to where its ok for me but the spin is worse) and then after many more sessions it seems that I gain more spin but the feel is much worse. So as you can see there are many "zones" within just one string. For me - the best alu is the one that is fresh.
Additional observation - I really like the Ice Blue color version. It's a bit more comfortable I think. Slightly more power maybe.... Or maybe my brain is just playing games with me
1.25 version is pretty much what you expect from switching gauges. Nothing really different there. Slightly more power, slightly higher launch, bigger sweet spot, better bite, less tension stability and worse string durability. Of course i prefer 1.30 in my open 16x19 racquet and actually it increases the value of alu power imo.
I can have this string for a pretty good price but I have to rate it based on market value.
I should add that there is no place on court where this string will dissapoint. All mistakes on you ! I really like it on my 2nd serves too !
Tested this string in Angell TC95 16x19 and Angell TC100 16x19
launch angle as expected with 1.30 gauge. Very controllable - especially when fresh
comfort is good for me although after the tournament I had some minor elbow issues. (I won that tournament)
I give this string a... 7.2 rating - it's great out of the box and offers suprisingly big spin potential (competitive with shaped strings) while retaining the attributes of round profiles string. The price and string tension maintenance and playability duration make it slightly worse. My "golden window" where I play best with this string is quite short. Of course it's still great but for competitive matches I already found slightly better solutions
Highly recommended ! 1.30 version in 16x19 patterns is really great and offers even better value !go to strings list (click)
say hello on IG !
@dandan.tennis
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
You can see my review. I completely agree with you. I wonder how Alu Power Rough compares
it's there waiting for me to be reviewed Ice blue color is nice too ! Suits my Tourna OG 
the tennis oracle
Rookie
You can see my review. I completely agree with you. I wonder how Alu Power Rough compares
Good review. I've never tried the colored versions but I have tried the rough and shaped Alu's and prefer the round. If you're considering the 1.28 Alu Power RG in red clay color Lux and TW are running a buy two, get one free sale.
Luxilon | Official Website
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FlamingCheeto
Hall of Fame
you know what the best hidden gem GOAT string is : Firestroke by Weiss Cannon, super spin and great control in a radical orange shaped poly
galapagos
Hall of Fame
1.20 gauge is only usable in tight 18x20 patterns for me. Not a fan of bright orange color either. Looks cheap. Reminds me of Pro's pro Hexaspin orange (it was actually a very fun string but definitely not "ultimate")
gebruikershaes
Rookie
Did you try Head Lynx Tour? I’m really enjoying this string in champagne color.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
yap. I update all my reviewed strings at my first post here. Click on the string name (or any string that has "click" next to it) to open the review. I like it a lot too. A bit heavier than other strings... I wonder if silver color is perhaps a bit lighter ? I was testing champagne color too. Good choice for the color
gebruikershaes
Rookie
Don’t know if it’s lighter but many say it’s livelier. Not as much as the orange but livelier than champagne. And yes it’s heavier than other strings. At first I thought I was going crazy because my racquet felt heavy until I measured the weight. Had to remove 2g of lead from the hoop.
For me this is the ultimate string. It’s just so solid, consistent and predictable. Even after 15h of play. It does exactly what you expect it to do. If you hit with more spin you get more spin. Want to hit deeper? Try it and the ball goes deeper. Lobs, dropshots everything lands exactly where you expect it to land. The amount of effort you put in to the shot is exactly the response what you get from the string bed. It’s crazy predictable. Not a spin monster or a power beast. Just solid and above average on all aspects. Oh and the feel is good too.
I see you tried the 1.30 version. I play with 1.25. Maybe worth a try?
For me this is the ultimate string. It’s just so solid, consistent and predictable. Even after 15h of play. It does exactly what you expect it to do. If you hit with more spin you get more spin. Want to hit deeper? Try it and the ball goes deeper. Lobs, dropshots everything lands exactly where you expect it to land. The amount of effort you put in to the shot is exactly the response what you get from the string bed. It’s crazy predictable. Not a spin monster or a power beast. Just solid and above average on all aspects. Oh and the feel is good too.
I see you tried the 1.30 version. I play with 1.25. Maybe worth a try?
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
You still havent read the review ;p i tried both gauges. 1.30 suits my frame better but I would try 1.25 in racquets like blade , prestige , yonex frames , radical... in general tighter patterns even if its 16x19... in gravity pro i think i would still prefer 1.30 lynx tour.
I have my racquets matched without the lead so I would have to adapt here...
What surprised me the most besides the weight is very low launch angle which is nice because you can brush up without the fear of overhitting and from 16x19 i still get the spin and bite. In fact the launch was Maybe too low for me (i still focus on driving through the ball more than brushing up but depends on situation on court)
comfort could be a bit better there but its Ok.
The closest string from my list to lynx tour is luxilon original. Similar but definitely different. I like them both a lot and Maybe will be in my top 4 after i finish testing rest of the strings.
Head is doing amazing work lately
gebruikershaes
Rookie
Whoops, no I hadn’t read it . I have now and I agree with most of your findings. I have it in my UT 18x20 which is tighter than most 18x20 @ 22kg. I also have one strung up in a hybrid with NG in the mains and Lynx Tour in the crosses. Which I obviously prefer because of the softer response. The launch angle sure is low. But that might be contributing to the precision and control?
. I have now and I agree with most of your findings. I have it in my UT 18x20 which is tighter than most 18x20 @ 22kg. I also have one strung up in a hybrid with NG in the mains and Lynx Tour in the crosses. Which I obviously prefer because of the softer response. The launch angle sure is low. But that might be contributing to the precision and control?
galapagos
Hall of Fame
I am thinking of stringing next time with even lower tension on crosses. First demo was with 24/23 kg and now thinking about 24/22 kg to open the sweet spot and increase launch a bit.Whoops, no I hadn’t read it
or.. Just lower the tension to 23/22.... not sure yet.
ichaseballs
Professional
waiting on yonex ptp score
ptf is also really
ptf is also really
Happi
Hall of Fame
Easier to string TC95 18x20 vs the 16x19 version
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Very similar but even better (more spin and comfort) - volkl cycloneGreat string at great price : MSV Focus Hex
MSV focus hex seems to have better tension stability
perhaps better during summerBoth are really good I admit so thats why they are on my list of ultimates
liftordie
Hall of Fame
For me, Focus Hex is better than Cyclone.Very similar but even better (more spin and comfort) - volkl cyclone
MSV focus hex seems to have better tension stability
Both are really good I admit so thats why they are on my list of ultimates
liftordie
Hall of Fame
I liked Hex Ultra but I found it "metallic" compare to original Hex.
Wheelz
Hall of Fame
Ultra was my first go at MsV but given their price I should test normal hex. Or even their round version on a gut hybrid !
galapagos
Hall of Fame
the best way to answer would be to listen the interview with the Head representative
a lot of cool info there :- Head acknowledges Solinco position on the market and wanted to make something similar in playability (shaped string)
- it was designed to compete directly with Solinco Hyper G, Solinco Tour Bite and Volkl Cyclone
- they wanted to bridge the gap between their control oriented family (Hawk) and their performance oriented family (Lynx)
- feedback they were receiving on regular Lynx was : too soft, not enough spin potential, not enough control
- goal - mid-priced string with great playability and the potential to make a mark on tour
I think they did a great job ! At the same time they developed something that actually doesnt remind me of hyper g which is a good thing too. I think you cant fully control the process of developing a new product. Just like in music where you kinda have the idea behind the song and you can control some of the aspects but at the same time you need that small % of magic and lucky moment (because music is very subjective and so are the strings)
link to the interview:
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superjon027
Rookie
Hey, I was thinking of trying this exact setup. Can you tell me what tension and racquet you use? Also, have you tried BK fullbed or Firewire Boost hybrid and how do they compare?
Sorry for all the questions. Trying to beat the clock on this promotion they are offering. Thanks!
megamind
Legend
Haven’t tried those yet, 49 on mains, 47 on crosses, 17 gauge on an 18x20 head gravity
heard that firewire boost is more powerful, spinny, but stiffer and less control than black knight x ghost wire
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Ok, now time for another big string. Or should I say Big Banger ? Yes ! Let's review the Luxilon Big Banger Original 1.30
Interesting quote from Luxilon - " Its strong durability characteristics make this a popular choice for players who developed their games on clay courts." / "
Is it a good idea to advertise the string like that ? I think not. Usually we read things like "best" , "dominate everywhere" blablabla... But if they decided to suggest this string for clay then something must be there.
So... the list of pro players using this string is really exciting ! Nadal used to play with it, Verdasco is using it, Nalbandian, Ferrer, Gasquet, Safin, Almagro, Humbert and many more that I don't know...
So what makes that string so special ? Control, control, control , and quite nice spin potential on top of thatoh and its very durable which makes the value actually quite good ! Its still slightly expensive for a reel but it's "okish" if the string provides some numbers
So when the string is fresh I don't like it that much. (strung it at 25/23kg) I was getting nice control but very little spin. HOWEVER when it opened up....oh boy...totally different string. Give Original some time to settle in your racquet. You might be surprised just like I was. All mistakes are on you ! Control is that good.
It is less responsive than Luxilon Alu Power so you have more control, less power, slightly stiffer feel and less spin. My 2nd serve is much better with Alu Power but overall Original gives me more confidence. + I like the color
My biggest concern with this string is comfort. It's really stiff. Feels slightly stiffer than Lynx Tour but is a bit lighter and my backhand is better with Original than Lynx Tour. I will have to experiment with tensions.
Original after some heavy hitting sessions turns almost to something like fresh Alu Power but with slightly less power (explosiveness) and that "zone" lasts for a very very long time.
If you like Alu Power but want a string with better playability duration, more control, slightly less spin AND your body can take slightly stiffer feel then Original is maybe your best chance. Hey! It's also cheaper than Alu
I give this string a... 7.3 rating ! Top 4 contender. I will have to try it for a longer period of time and watch closely at my match results. Original was also my string of choice for a while when swtiched from Cyclone 1.30... I already have some big wins with it Highly recommended for competitive and developed players (4.0+) (not only on clay haha)
go to list of strings (click)
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
Yes ! Let's review the Luxilon Big Banger Original 1.30 Interesting quote from Luxilon - " Its strong durability characteristics make this a popular choice for players who developed their games on clay courts." / "
- Widely used by players who developed their games on clay courts
Is it a good idea to advertise the string like that ? I think not. Usually we read things like "best" , "dominate everywhere" blablabla... But if they decided to suggest this string for clay then something must be there.
So... the list of pro players using this string is really exciting ! Nadal used to play with it, Verdasco is using it, Nalbandian, Ferrer, Gasquet, Safin, Almagro, Humbert and many more that I don't know...
So what makes that string so special ? Control, control, control , and quite nice spin potential on top of that
oh and its very durable which makes the value actually quite good ! Its still slightly expensive for a reel but it's "okish" if the string provides some numbers So when the string is fresh I don't like it that much. (strung it at 25/23kg) I was getting nice control but very little spin. HOWEVER when it opened up....oh boy...totally different string. Give Original some time to settle in your racquet. You might be surprised just like I was. All mistakes are on you ! Control is that good.
It is less responsive than Luxilon Alu Power so you have more control, less power, slightly stiffer feel and less spin. My 2nd serve is much better with Alu Power but overall Original gives me more confidence. + I like the color
My biggest concern with this string is comfort. It's really stiff. Feels slightly stiffer than Lynx Tour but is a bit lighter and my backhand is better with Original than Lynx Tour. I will have to experiment with tensions.
Original after some heavy hitting sessions turns almost to something like fresh Alu Power but with slightly less power (explosiveness) and that "zone" lasts for a very very long time.
If you like Alu Power but want a string with better playability duration, more control, slightly less spin AND your body can take slightly stiffer feel then Original is maybe your best chance. Hey! It's also cheaper than Alu
I give this string a... 7.3 rating ! Top 4 contender. I will have to try it for a longer period of time and watch closely at my match results. Original was also my string of choice for a while when swtiched from Cyclone 1.30... I already have some big wins with it
Highly recommended for competitive and developed players (4.0+) (not only on clay haha)
go to list of strings (click)
say hello on IG !
@dandan.tennis
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Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
I am hearing so many good things about this new Yonex Polytour Rev string. you guys try it yet ??
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
yea i saw that. Several people have said that they were disappointed with SPIN potential, even though it is shaped string. Is this true ? Compared to Confidential or alu power rough, how does the spin potential compare ?
Injured Again
Hall of Fame
PT Rev does not have the spin capability that Confidential does. I've never used Alu Rough. Yonex says it is a shaped string but I took an extreme closeup of the sample set I got and it basically looks round, which is also how it plays like. See this post:
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Like @Injured Again said - the spin potential isn't getting best reviews with this string from people who really have experience with many brands . Tennisnerd also didn't like this string. Tennis Spin channel I think never really say anything negative about any product... + Yonex representative visited them with new racquets just before the review so.... Fishy
Not enough positive reviews to even make it to my maybe list. I am not a fan of the color too...i believe BBO would probably be a bit too stiff for my tastes (i like my racquet/stringbed setup to feel like a pillow). I’d need to string BBO low 30s and itd be a coinflip between amazing or atrocious.Not many luxilon original fans here or not many tried it ?
interested in comparison between luxilon original and luxilon original rough (not available in my country and Europe I think in general)
galapagos
Hall of Fame
yap, BBO is definitely stiff. Not for everyone. Less comfortable than Alu Power. But worth a try...at the same time I think that many will prefer Lynx Tour that feels pretty similar to be honest when it comes to comfort but offers easier access to spin. However I found launch angle to be more neutral with Original and it's slightly lighter so if you are already playing with a heavy setup then Original might be a better choice.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
for everyone interested in Rublev’s string of choice:
@Jouke , @Mirko , @leonwcsuen , @rafa_prestige89 and possible many more as Rublev is on fire
Miami 2021 just before the official Head contract announcement
BTW I am familiar with Lynx Tour, just finished testing Mayami Hit Pro (review to come) and now will be demoing Luxilon Adrenaline alongside Luxilon Alu Power Rough
i guess i can offer some comparisons soon
@Jouke , @Mirko , @leonwcsuen , @rafa_prestige89 and possible many more as Rublev is on fire
Miami 2021 just before the official Head contract announcement
BTW I am familiar with Lynx Tour, just finished testing Mayami Hit Pro (review to come) and now will be demoing Luxilon Adrenaline alongside Luxilon Alu Power Rough
i guess i can offer some comparisons soon
galapagos
Hall of Fame
Time for the Mayami Hit Pro
This string can shake a bit the Luxilon dominance in round strings. I've been testing this string next to Luxilon Alu Power, Luxilon Original and Tourna Silver 7 Tour and I can say that it's up there fighting with the big guys
1. I like the color. Kinda milky yellow creamy. delicious. I also really like Original color (a bit more towards gold) Of course it shouldnt matter but I guess after 30+ strings you kinda start being more fussy
2. this string is all about the feel. Mayami even advertises it that way. I played my best touch shots with it. I think only Luxilon Original offered me that connection so far.
3. Performance is somewhere in between Luxilon Alu Power and Original. It's definitely not as responsive as Alu Power (less "dynamic spin potential") and it's slightly more responsive than Luxilon Original which is kinda dead and even boardy when fresh. I think that if you are a die-hard fan of Alu Power characteristics then Hit Pro might not be for you. But if you want a bit more control and move a bit towards string region of Luxilon Original then it's a must try.
4. It's around 70 usd cheaper than the already discounted Luxilon Original. $$$$$
5. Spin potential - Alu Power offered me more and so far the biggest spin rates from all the round strings tested so far. That's why its the golden standard on tour. I wish Hit Pro could offer better spin potential. It's closer to Original. I might play with string tensions and see if it can be improved. I think thats the only thing I would like to see improved with Hit Pro (tensions used 24kg/23kg). It's not that the spin is bad but it's worse than with shaped strings while Alu Power somehow cheats the physics and the spin potential is same as I have with shaped strings. If we were discussing spin potential only within the group of round profiles then it's very good (more than Adrenaline, Poly Tour Pro or Ice Code for example). It depends how much spin you expect from a round string ??? I could still execute my kick serve which is my ultimate test
6. It's more comfortable than any Luxilon I tried. No elbow issues (my usual problem with Luxilon)
7. I love serving with this string. It's on par with Alu Power.
8. When the string's biggest trait is feel its obvious that volleys are top lvl.
9. It plays great when fresh and has very good playability duration. Alu power plays great when fresh and looses the magic rather fast. Original plays very bad when fresh but GAINS magic after few training sessions. Hit Pro is magic right away with playability duration longer than Alu Power and similar to Original (Hit Pro eventually becomes more powerful than Original)
Also interesting fact is that I had some top practices with ITF 35+ top 10 players and I was switching between Tourna Silver 7 Tour (think control and spin) and Hit Pro (think feel, forgiveness and touch) and finished training with Hit Pro as my choice. Why ? I find Tourna SIlver 7 Tour a bit less forgiving. It's a stiff string (still comfortable enough) and therefore the sweet spot is smaller and when the ball is flying really fast then it's harder to unlock the string while with Hit Pro I could still control the rally. Conclusion - Hit Pro better for counter-punchers ? Silver 7 Tour better if you are the one dictating the pace ? Maybe... I will probably have to try them more as clearly they are my top 4 contenders strings.
Side note - I prefer 1.30 gauge. 1.25 had too high launch angle in my open pattern 16x19 racquet. I am very sensitive to string gauges (launch angle) it seems ^^ Rest of the characteristics were very similar so I can see this gauge playing great in tighter patterns like Prestige, Blade, Radical... I am a 1.30 die-hard fan now
I give Hit Pro a.... 7.3 rating. Many things were suggesting to give a higher rating but spin potential of course it's a big part of the game. I am a flat hitter anyway so maybe at the end it will not matter much. For now if I really like the string my max rating will be 7.3 I guess and let's see how it goes after my top 4 or top 6 strings are picked for another round of testing. Tourna offers also a lot of value and Original is crazy good as well but more expensive.... interesting lineup !
rest of the strings(click)
say hello on IG ! @dandan.tennis
This string can shake a bit the Luxilon dominance in round strings. I've been testing this string next to Luxilon Alu Power, Luxilon Original and Tourna Silver 7 Tour and I can say that it's up there fighting with the big guys
1. I like the color. Kinda milky yellow
creamy. delicious. I also really like Original color (a bit more towards gold) Of course it shouldnt matter but I guess after 30+ strings you kinda start being more fussy2. this string is all about the feel. Mayami even advertises it that way. I played my best touch shots with it. I think only Luxilon Original offered me that connection so far.
3. Performance is somewhere in between Luxilon Alu Power and Original. It's definitely not as responsive as Alu Power (less "dynamic spin potential") and it's slightly more responsive than Luxilon Original which is kinda dead and even boardy when fresh. I think that if you are a die-hard fan of Alu Power characteristics then Hit Pro might not be for you. But if you want a bit more control and move a bit towards string region of Luxilon Original then it's a must try.
4. It's around 70 usd cheaper than the already discounted Luxilon Original. $$$$$
5. Spin potential - Alu Power offered me more and so far the biggest spin rates from all the round strings tested so far. That's why its the golden standard on tour. I wish Hit Pro could offer better spin potential. It's closer to Original. I might play with string tensions and see if it can be improved. I think thats the only thing I would like to see improved with Hit Pro (tensions used 24kg/23kg). It's not that the spin is bad but it's worse than with shaped strings while Alu Power somehow cheats the physics and the spin potential is same as I have with shaped strings. If we were discussing spin potential only within the group of round profiles then it's very good (more than Adrenaline, Poly Tour Pro or Ice Code for example). It depends how much spin you expect from a round string ??? I could still execute my kick serve which is my ultimate test
6. It's more comfortable than any Luxilon I tried. No elbow issues (my usual problem with Luxilon)
7. I love serving with this string. It's on par with Alu Power.
8. When the string's biggest trait is feel its obvious that volleys are top lvl.
9. It plays great when fresh and has very good playability duration. Alu power plays great when fresh and looses the magic rather fast. Original plays very bad when fresh but GAINS magic after few training sessions. Hit Pro is magic right away with playability duration longer than Alu Power and similar to Original (Hit Pro eventually becomes more powerful than Original)
Also interesting fact is that I had some top practices with ITF 35+ top 10 players and I was switching between Tourna Silver 7 Tour (think control and spin) and Hit Pro (think feel, forgiveness and touch) and finished training with Hit Pro as my choice. Why ? I find Tourna SIlver 7 Tour a bit less forgiving. It's a stiff string (still comfortable enough) and therefore the sweet spot is smaller and when the ball is flying really fast then it's harder to unlock the string while with Hit Pro I could still control the rally. Conclusion - Hit Pro better for counter-punchers ? Silver 7 Tour better if you are the one dictating the pace ? Maybe... I will probably have to try them more as clearly they are my top 4 contenders strings.
Side note - I prefer 1.30 gauge. 1.25 had too high launch angle in my open pattern 16x19 racquet. I am very sensitive to string gauges (launch angle) it seems ^^ Rest of the characteristics were very similar so I can see this gauge playing great in tighter patterns like Prestige, Blade, Radical... I am a 1.30 die-hard fan now
I give Hit Pro a.... 7.3 rating. Many things were suggesting to give a higher rating but spin potential of course it's a big part of the game. I am a flat hitter anyway so maybe at the end it will not matter much. For now if I really like the string my max rating will be 7.3 I guess and let's see how it goes after my top 4 or top 6 strings are picked for another round of testing. Tourna offers also a lot of value and Original is crazy good as well but more expensive.... interesting lineup !
rest of the strings(click)
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@dandan.tennis
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galapagos
Hall of Fame
Definitely a no brainer for somebody coming from Solinco Tour Bite. Comfort is very personal. This is still a very stiff string but stiff also can mean control. My body accepts Tourna Silver 7 Tour. I had only one alerting moment and then never again.
Great review as always. Tks for putting this together.Time for the Mayami Hit Pro
This string can shake a bit the Luxilon dominance in round strings. I've been testing this string next to Luxilon Alu Power, Luxilon Original and Tourna Silver 7 Tour and I can say that it's up there fighting with the big guys
1. I like the color. Kinda milky yellow
2. this string is all about the feel. Mayami even advertises it that way. I played my best touch shots with it. I think only Luxilon Original offered me that connection so far.
3. Performance is somewhere in between Luxilon Alu Power and Original. It's definitely not as responsive as Alu Power (less "dynamic spin potential") and it's slightly more responsive than Luxilon Original which is kinda dead and even boardy when fresh. I think that if you are a die-hard fan of Alu Power characteristics then Hit Pro might not be for you. But if you want a bit more control and move a bit towards string region of Luxilon Original then it's a must try.
4. It's around 70 usd cheaper than the already discounted Luxilon Original. $$$$$
5. Spin potential - Alu Power offered me more and so far the biggest spin rates from all the round strings tested so far. That's why its the golden standard on tour. I wish Hit Pro could offer better spin potential. It's closer to Original. I might play with string tensions and see if it can be improved. I think thats the only thing I would like to see improved with Hit Pro (tensions used 24kg/23kg). It's not that the spin is bad but it's worse than with shaped strings while Alu Power somehow cheats the physics and the spin potential is same as I have with shaped strings. If we were discussing spin potential only within the group of round profiles then it's very good. It depends how much spin you expect from a round string ??? I could still execute my kick serve which is my ultimate test
6. It's more comfortable than any Luxilon I tried. No elbow issues (my usual problem with Luxilon)
7. I love serving with this string. It's on par with Alu Power.
8. When the string's biggest trait is feel its obvious that volleys are top lvl.
9. It plays great when fresh and has very good playability duration. Alu power plays great when fresh and looses the magic rather fast. Original plays very bad when fresh but GAINS magic after few training sessions. Hit Pro is magic right away with playability duration longer than Alu Power and similar to Original (Hit Pro eventually becomes more powerful than Original)
Also interesting fact is that I had some top practices with ITF 35+ top 10 players and I was switching between Tourna Silver 7 Tour (think control and spin) and Hit Pro (think feel, forgiveness and touch) and finished training with Hit Pro as my choice. Why ? I find Tourna SIlver 7 Tour a bit less forgiving. It's a stiff string (still comfortable enough) and therefore the sweet spot is smaller and when the ball is flying really fast then it's harder to unlock the string while with Hit Pro I could still control the rally. Conclusion - Hit Pro better for counter-punchers ? Silver 7 Tour better if you are the one dictating the pace ? Maybe... I will probably have to try them more as clearly they are my top 4 contenders strings.
Side note - I prefer 1.30 gauge. 1.25 had too high launch angle in my open pattern 16x19 racquet. I am very sensitive to string gauges (launch angle) it seems ^^ Rest of the characteristics were very similar so I can see this gauge playing great in tighter patterns like Prestige, Blade, Radical... I am a 1.30 die-hard fan now
I give Hit Pro a.... 7.3 rating. Many things were suggesting to give a higher rating but spin potential of course it's a big part of the game. I am a flat hitter anyway so maybe at the end it will not matter much. For now if I really like the string my max rating will be 7.3 I guess and let's see how it goes after my top 4 or top 6 strings are picked for another round of testing. Tourna offers also a lot of value and Original is crazy good as well but more expensive.... interesting lineup !
rest of the strings(click)
I was testing Magic Twist and Hit Pro in parallel in my TC97 (18x20). I ended up playing with Magic Twist most of the time. As you said Hit Pro lacks a bit of spin. I also found that Magic Twist was more predictable and more consistent. Though Hit Pro is more powerful and has a bigger sweetspot.
The only time I played well with the Hit Pro was against an ex ITF 30. He played relatively flat and Hit Pro did well against his shots.
the tennis oracle
Rookie
Ok, now time for another big string. Or should I say Big Banger ?
Interesting quote from Luxilon - " Its strong durability characteristics make this a popular choice for players who developed their games on clay courts." / "
I can say right away that I was developed on clay so this really caught my eye.
- Widely used by players who developed their games on clay courts
Is it a good idea to advertise the string like that ? I think not. Usually we read things like "best" , "dominate everywhere" blablabla... But if they decided to suggest this string for clay then something must be there.
So... the list of pro players using this string is really exciting ! Nadal used to play with it, Verdasco is using it, Nalbandian, Ferrer, Gasquet, Safin, Almagro, Humbert and many more that I don't know...
So what makes that string so special ? Control, control, control , and quite nice spin potential on top of that
So when the string is fresh I don't like it that much. (strung it at 25/23kg) I was getting nice control but very little spin. HOWEVER when it opened up....oh boy...totally different string. Give Original some time to settle in your racquet. You might be surprised just like I was. All mistakes are on you ! Control is that good.
It is less responsive than Luxilon Alu Power so you have more control, less power, slightly stiffer feel and less spin. My 2nd serve is much better with Alu Power but overall Original gives me more confidence. + I like the color
My biggest concern with this string is comfort. It's really stiff. Feels slightly stiffer than Lynx Tour but is a bit lighter and my backhand is better with Original than Lynx Tour. I will have to experiment with tensions.
Original after some heavy hitting sessions turns almost to something like fresh Alu Power but with slightly less power (explosiveness) and that "zone" lasts for a very very long time.
If you like Alu Power but want a string with better playability duration, more control, slightly less spin AND your body can take slightly stiffer feel then Original is maybe your best chance. Hey! It's also cheaper than Alu
I give this string a... 7.3 rating ! Top 4 contender. I will have to try it for a longer period of time and watch closely at my match results. Original was also my string of choice for a while when swtiched from Cyclone 1.30... I already have some big wins with it
go to list of strings (click)
I'm surprised you like BBO so much. I thought it was stiff as a board and with very little feel. I could warm up to it if it came in 1.25 and I strung it 5 lbs lower, but even then I suspect it would be inferior to Alu. 4G feels like BBO's successor in terms of a stiffer feel and better longevity.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
I strung Original 25kg/23kg . 2 kg difference on crosses! At first it was boardy and stiff like you described. Totally not my preference but after a few hitting sessions the tension dropped and it played really well.. Next time I will try it 24/23kg or 24/22 kg.
I wish it was more comfortable so actually if 4g is stiffer then its already too much ! xd
the tennis oracle
Rookie
There should be a warning on the package: "2-4 hr break-in period required." Haha
BBO is stiffer than 4G.
galapagos
Hall of Fame
There should be a warning on the package: "2-4 hr break-in period required." Haha
BBO is stiffer than 4G.
Haha yes indeed
Maybe I should string it lower to see if the magic appears faster or hopefuly right away...I am slightly afraid you are comparing 1.25 4g to 1.30 BBO . Do you have experience with 1.30 4g as well ? TW database also seems to show it as a stiffer string. Obviously there is also the factor of power return % that can give the slightly softer experience...
I think Bautista Agut switched from Original to 4g 1.30 but not 100% sure on that.
@galapagos you should try hybrid of alu power mains with element cross, recommended by @FIRETennis
also, solinco tour bite/hyperG are 5 sided strings FYI, @Injured Again proved this
also, solinco tour bite/hyperG are 5 sided strings FYI, @Injured Again proved this
the tennis oracle
Rookie
Haha yes indeed
And how long it lasts and report back on your findings!
I tried the different gauges of 4G and the rough and they all felt pretty stiff and somewhat lacking in feel compared to Alu. I should have strung em 4 lbs lower (my regular tension is 55 lbs, 2015/16 PD Tour+).
FIRETennis
Professional
This is actually Monfils' setup, that's where I got the idea as well as on Luxilon's sponsored players page quite a few are softening up the ALU mains with Element crosses. I think 4G Soft would also work as a cross. I get double the playability with ALU/Element compared to full bed ALU, at around ~23kg/~50lbs in the RF97 and ~22kg/48lbs. Blade 98 v7 16x19.
