Volkl PB 10 Mid: Designed For High Level or Club Players

[TennisMaverick]

I really like this racquet, but is it a magic stick? It really kicks-butt in sales, but according to Volkl, it was designed for 5.0 minimum-7.0 players. So why do so many club players insist on using a frame that they complain to be either too heavy, too small, too whippy, etc., as they refuse to believe that the racquet's qualities are just too far above their ability level to get everything out of it.

And then, further state these issues as negative comments in numerous threads, and STILL use the stick. What's up with that?

 

[TourTenor]

This is a good question ... IMO this is more about swing styles than player ratings. The players that are 5.0 and higher tend to have honed their strokes and likely, are comfortable taking big, full cuts at the ball. Those having success with the PB10 mid tend to take big, full cuts at the ball. The stick encourages more aggressive play. Does that mean they are 5.0 and above .... no. The stick also has plenty of feel both at the net and for the top-spin lob. A 5.0 is more likely to have those in the arsenal however, there are plenty of 4.0 that do, as well.

So, IMHO you do not need to be a 5.0 to take advantage of this stick but ... you better look long and hard at your swing style to see if this is the right one.

 

[HiroProtagonist]

What is with all this angst about the PB10 mid lately? Its very strange.......

 

[Fed Kennedy]

6.0 minimum to even look at this thing without safety goggles on.

 

[HiroProtagonist]

6.0 minimum to even look at this thing without safety goggles on.

LMAO...........funny but true:shock:

 

[Edberg]

Its a pos. I sold both of mine last week. Overhyped and overrated. Volkyl must be offering good comissions to advertise their products.

 

[thebuffman]

i just demo'd the stick and will be getting rid of all of my racquets shortly as i accumulate the pb10 mid. i am transitioning to a mid size racquet and feel that the 100sq" racquets have served their purpose. i took multiple highly touted mids out for a test drive and the pb10 outshined them all.

 

[TennisMD]

I really like this racquet, but is it a magic stick? It really kicks-butt in sales, but according to Volkl, it was designed for 5.0 minimum-7.0 players. So why do so many club players insist on using a frame that they complain to be either too heavy, too small, too whippy, etc., as they refuse to believe that the racquet's qualities are just too far above their ability level to get everything out of it.

And then, further state these issues as negative comments in numerous threads, and STILL use the stick. What's up with that?

I have had this rkt for most of the year and sometimes plays really great other times + - I think in the review Granville comming back from and injury (rough paraphrasing on my part) alas my game is not quite up to par also said really need your A game when playing this rkt and he is a 5.5 so comming back from injury a 5.0 I think this says alot.
What keeps people comming back to this rkt is a good but very individual question, part of it is the TW board fasination with anything small headed and if you play with such you have to be good, no question in my mind this rkt snobery exist, but also rkt comfort, this rkt is very very comfortable and when swinging well it feels great and produces a very heavy ball. These two features comfort and heavy ball always retempt me. I had a hitting session this winter and used the Head MG extreme pro, original version, and then switched to Volkl PB 10 mid, hitting the ball well that day and hitting partner said the PB more pace and heavier. However on days not as sharp I do not think I would have heard the same comment. So consistancy of play key, not sure in fact I am sure not as consistant day in and day out with the PB 10 mid

 

[TennisMaverick]

"...the TW board fasination with anything small headed and if you play with such you have to be good, no question in my mind this rkt snobery exist...."

Playing with this racquet does not make one a good player; only a good player can get the maximum out of this racquet. That is why it is recommended for NTRP 5.0 minimum and above.

Are you saying that hacks are just feeding their egos as they try to play with this stick?

 

[SirGounder]

Definitely some people are feeding their egos playing with the PB10 mid. Then again, people may enjoy the comfort or the challenge of using it. Some people may fall a bit short of being able to effectively use it but it's something they can grow into.

I also think in general there is an overall fascination with all things "retro" from cars to clothes and everything in between. I would categorize the PB10 mid as a retro stick. Small head, heavy etc.

 

[Fed Kennedy]

It's a blast to play with. I'm a 4.0, who gives a crap. It's easier to play with than a k90, then again I like that racquet too. If you're a super serious person who only cares about winning, just get a gym membership and go everyday. It will make more of a difference than any racquet.

 

[Joey]

I used the PB10 for a month or two....great stick.....until I compared it to other more user friendly racquets in competitive match situations......

Anyone can use the PB10 Mid and almost everyone would find something to like about this stick but do you want a "feel good" racquet or something to be competitive with.

How many Pros use midsize racquets these days??????

 

[000KFACTOR90000]

Wish the mid+ had an open pattern

 

[Ennismt]

I think club players could do fine with this racquet. The headsize and weight was not a noticeable change for me when I demoed the racquet. Though, I am used to Prestige MP and Wilson 6.1 that were both 95 sq in and 18x20. I am a middle aged-upper end 4.0 player feeling the slow decline of performance with age. I play a versatile game and try to do whatever it takes on the court.

I didn't choose the PB10 mid because there were at least a few better choices for me. And, I did not get the reviews that say "just stick with it", "its string sensitive", "its for only this style or that style", etc. I understand string type and tension plays a big part in frame performance so I factored that in. I ended up thinking that the racquest was not up to the hype and was not willing to deal with a "high maintenance" racquet that I had to learn to love.

Nevertheless, it's a good racquet and good players will play well with it. Like it was said before in this thread, hitting the gym, hitting balls, and doing some running will do wonders for your game. More so than the racquet choice given you are in the general ballpark of specs for your swing speed and strength. I wouldn't think less of a player with strenght and good or developing strokes using this racquet - it's a mid but only 2" smaller than a MP.

 

[max]

ennismt: what did you end up getting? I relate to your situation.

 

[JackB1]

I would say 4.5 at least for the PB10 mid. While most can use it, your game will suffer for it if you dont have the game to back it up.

 

[BobFL]

I really like this racquet, but is it a magic stick? It really kicks-butt in sales, but according to Volkl, it was designed for 5.0 minimum-7.0 players. So why do so many club players insist on using a frame that they complain to be either too heavy, too small, too whippy, etc., as they refuse to believe that the racquet's qualities are just too far above their ability level to get everything out of it.

And then, further state these issues as negative comments in numerous threads, and STILL use the stick. What's up with that?

PB10 mid is one very demanding racquet no question about that. And I do agree with Volkl - 5.0+. You will see a lot of internet heroes saying: Cr4p, I can play with Mid and I am only ___ <--- insert number in 2.0-4.0 range. And there is no such thing as an "overrated racquet". Only player can be overrated...

 

[richie65]

Had my first hit with the Mid last night..........and I do really like it. I don't know if I love it yet, though.

As usual I purchased a used version as new racquets are expensive. Actually, I like looking for good used copies. First, impression was that it feels exactly like my C10 Pro Tour. Very hefty and high swingweight. i also need to change the pallets to L3 as the L2 size always seems to make me pull my forehands wide and leads to racquet twisting on heavy shots.

I served very well with it and this kept me in the match until I sorted out my forehand. I'll do all my comments as comparisions to other Volkl mids.

Stability: > DNX Mid; = C10PT; > C7 Comp; > VE Mid
Spin:< DNX Mid; > C10PT; = C7; > VE Mid
Serve: = C10PT; > DNX Mid; > C7; = VE Mid
Serve Return: > All others (excellent!)
Maneuverablity: < DNX; = C10; < C7; , VE Mid
Volley: > All others (very solid)
Comfort: < C10; < C7; > DNX; > VE Mid

Quckly, this is a demanding stick and as a 4.5 player I need to improve to get the most out of it. Until then (and for doubles) I'll use my C10 Pro 98 and Tour 10 MP Gen 1s as my main sticks.

 

[jk816]

I question how truly demanding it is; I was shopping for a new stick (arm friendly, control oriented), and players racquets were the best match. Demo'd a number of racquets (Wilson BLX variants, a couple of Head models and the PB10Mid).

The PB10Mid was the easy winner in comfort, control, feel and overall use. I'm no 4.5 level player (when healthy may approach that level, but you can only really tell by playing matches, which I'm not doing). While I had the racquets, my wife and 15 y/o daughter also tried them all out of curiousity. They'd both be below 4.0 level no doubt, but have decent groundies.

They also loved the PB10; didn't like the others much. I couldn't get the darn thing back from my daughter! Their shots depth and spin instantly improved; when I asked both what they like most, they both agreed it seemed effortless to hit with it. I found that too; just line it up, start the racquet going and it did the rest. Even net play seemed easy.

My daughter has long strokes and too fast a swing; my wife has compact flat strokes; I tried it with both classic and Modern style strokes. Worked well in all cases. The weight did not seem to be an issue either. The girls are not real strong, but liked the extra heft. But then again they didn't play 3 hours straight with it.

So I ordered the PB10Mid; unfortunately it went from 2 weeks backordered in early Sept., to 1 month, now not until November. Nobody has these things! Must be insanely popular, and it ain't just at TW!

Maybe it takes a 5.0+ to really appreciate its full capabilities, but lower levels can be helped by it just as well. Just don't hit too far off center; stroke it well it is very comfortable; but hit too far off center and the handle translates a nasty vibration. That (and the price) are the only downsides I found.

I'm no internet hero, BTW, just another hitter looking for better than he has.

 

[JackB1]

^^^^ word of caution.....there is a big difference between just "rallying" with a racquet or hitting back and forth and playing competitive tennis against an opponent that will force you out of your comfort zone. That is the true test if the racquet is for you or not.

Also...why didn't you check out the friendlier MP and "Light" models of the PB?

 

[BobFL]

Maybe it takes a 5.0+ to really appreciate its full capabilities, but lower levels can be helped by it just as well. Just don't hit too far off center

How? Please give us a few examples?

Thanks!

 

[big bang]

PB10 for me is very close of being the perfect frame. Best control ever! and I used classics like PC600, original PP600, head graphite pro and Elite pro, PSC and many more..
PB10 is not as heavy as other posters claimed. I find it to swing very light for the specs, its so well balanced!.
I never served better and Im hitting very heavy groundies with this beast. Somehow it seems like the harder I hit - the more control I get! I very rarely hit too long, everything just drops in and when Im under pressure I never stress because I can allways get back in the rally by hitting a deep slice, passing shot or crazy topspin lob. I simply never felt such control of every aspect of my game period!. I bring my own power, but I seriously dont find it to be underpowered like some ppl do..

 

[Ennismt]

max: I went with the PK Black Ace 93, but have kept my fxp prestige MPs. I really liked how comfortable it is. I am recovering from a shoulder impingement and was looking for a more flexible and maybe lighter frame. Besides the BA93 and PB10 mid, I demoed the Wilson Pro Tour 96" and the BA98. I have also hit with some friends' racquets.

The switch from 95 to 93" was not a big deal to me. I have hit with a couple of 90" before, heck played with an 85" in HS and 90" in college, but I know I can not do that anymore.

Maybe I'm odd but I tend to think the inverse situation for myself when it comes to racquets. That is, I'd love to use a high powered racket with big sweetspot, but my strokes and movement are not up to the task. When I am set up, I love the response but put me off balance or when my form drops off, then I start spraying the ball. A control racquet does its job when I am on and controls the errors when I am off. I also like a heavier racquet for my 2HBH.

 

[PrinceMoron]

PB10 is not as heavy as other posters claimed.
I find it to swing very light for the specs, its so well balanced!..

Somehow it seems like the harder I hit - the more control I get!

I bring my own power, but I seriously dont find it to be underpowered like some ppl do..

Yes, still swings light even after leading up to 400g, not many rackets you can say that about.

Yes, this racket has a really high top gear, it is almost like going thru the sound barrier, all the buffeting suddenly disappears. This frame plays so sweet when you REALLY rip the ball, just an oasis of calm.

Yes, if you don't hit smoothly the racket can feel like it is giving you nothing. Never had that with the DNX10. I found making the racket a little more evenly balanced worked the trick for me, and power is just not an issue. Maybe if you are not used to the grip shape, you can be shaky on contact without realising.

So could not agree more really.

 

[TennisMD]

Playing with this racquet does not make one a good player; only a good player can get the maximum out of this racquet. That is why it is recommended for NTRP 5.0 minimum and above.

Are you saying that hacks are just feeding their egos as they try to play with this stick?

Actually my point exactly the rkt will not make you a 5.0 player, however the question the OP had was what makes people come back to it I gave my answer for me personally it is comfort and when hitting well the feel and results produced, but I do think some on these boards do have rkt snobbery and only good players play with small headed rkts. I do not know how long you h ave been with the TW talk but a raging war existed between MOJO and others about head size and this whole debate reenforced my opinion. I will probably stay with this rkt for its comfort and arm safety although I know I probably get better results with a Head MG extreme Pro type of rkt. Interestingly while buying gear from TW last night one of ther reps a 5.5 tournament player echoed my exact same thought. He beliecves he played some of his best tennis with the Head MG extreme pro original version but it was bad bad for his arm and now plays with the PB mid, and no I was not buying a rkt so no incentive for him to try and sell one

 

[jk816]

^^^^ word of caution.....there is a big difference between just "rallying" with a racquet or hitting back and forth and playing competitive tennis against an opponent that will force you out of your comfort zone. That is the true test if the racquet is for you or not.

Also...why didn't you check out the friendlier MP and "Light" models of the PB?

No argument there; then again you could arguably find a different racquet might be better suited to every different opponent you play. Plus I could be playtesting a long time trying to try every racquet in every situation. Finding a racquet that gives you confidence to go for your shots instead of worrying about hitting too much or too little is really all I was hoping to manage and for the racquets I tested the PB10 Mid did this the best. Depth and spin and direction came very easily.

I only demo'd one Volkl; in my search I was looking for a more arm friendly racquet than I was swinging and all pointers indicated a heavier stick was in order. I went with the one that had the better reviews and a more flexible frame.

I really didn't expect to like the Volkl; in past purchase cycles I'd always wound up with a Wilson. I really kind of expected I'd prefer the BLX 6.1 95 18x20. I was surprised I liked the Volkl as much as I did, and even more surprised my girls did. Actually the Wilsons came in last! The other only racquet I wanted to try and didn't was the Yonex RDS 200.

If I ever get the darn thing, I'll let you know if a more extended play time changes my opinion, but I hope not!

 

[jk816]

How? Please give us a few examples?

Thanks!

I really can't give a lot of examples from a limited demo period, but I apart from my own time in hitting varied balls from players and machines, I saw pretty clearly a difference in my wife & daughter using it. Neither is an advanced player and have different styles, but their shots improved immediately upon switching to the PB10Mid; both instantly had better depth (without going long) and increased topspin. To experiment we changed racquets back and forth and to other demo models, and their shots were notably better with the PB 10.
I really didn't expect this racquet would be the one to come through the demos as the winner, but all of us reached the same conclusion.

So while it may be designed for advanced players, that should not scare anyone from trying it. Reviews are useful in narrowing your list of choices, but the only way to say for sure which racquets you'll like is to try them.
Especially if you are going to drop $200 on a racquet.

 

[thebuffman]

He beliecves he played some of his best tennis with the Head MG extreme pro original version but it was bad bad for his arm and now plays with the PB mid, and no I was not buying a rkt so no incentive for him to try and sell one

egos aside and all of that nonsensical stuff that is found on the message boards i can truly say that i have played my best tennis ever with this stick hands down. i have owned the mg extreme pro for 2 years and everytime i would pull it out even for ball machine hitting practice it would go back in the bag after 3 minutes. i have hit with my radicals and prestiges forever. i've demoed k90, youtek prestige mid+ & pro, redondo, rdis100, and other great sticks but nothing compared to what i felt with the volkl pb10 mid. the only other racquet that came close FOR ME was the youtek prestige mid however it is not as polarized as the volkl.

after leading up the pb10 to 13.2oz, it was a wrap for my competition. the spin and heavy ball i produced continually pushed them back on my normal rally ball. of course though my competition is 3.0-4.0 level and i have never hit against 5.0+ level players so perhaps i am fooling myself. but for my backyard and for my calibre this stick rules.

someone else will rightly come along and have an entirely different opinion and it should be that way. if we all end up saying the same great things about this stick, at that point we have a problem. there must always be consent and dissent. it is what make us humans so unique.

 

[TennisMD]

egos aside and all of that nonsensical stuff that is found on the message boards i can truly say that i have played my best tennis ever with this stick hands down. i have owned the mg extreme pro for 2 years and everytime i would pull it out even for ball machine hitting practice it would go back in the bag after 3 minutes. i have hit with my radicals and prestiges forever. i've demoed k90, youtek prestige mid+ & pro, redondo, rdis100, and other great sticks but nothing compared to what i felt with the volkl pb10 mid. the only other racquet that came close FOR ME was the youtek prestige mid however it is not as polarized as the volkl.

after leading up the pb10 to 13.2oz, it was a wrap for my competition. the spin and heavy ball i produced continually pushed them back on my normal rally ball. of course though my competition is 3.0-4.0 level and i have never hit against 5.0+ level players so perhaps i am fooling myself. but for my backyard and for my calibre this stick rules.

someone else will rightly come along and have an entirely different opinion and it should be that way. if we all end up saying the same great things about this stick, at that point we have a problem. there must always be consent and dissent. it is what make us humans so unique.

Points well taken. I was not trying to promote a rkt such as the Head MG extreme pro, just pointing out two people at different levels of tennis 5.5 vs 4.0 young vs middle age and yet similar findings

 

[JT_2eighty]

Anyone here use the PB10 vs a PT630? The flex, weight, and balance on the PB10 look very appealing. One of these days I'll have to use something else once my PTs disintegrate, but this one is screaming for me to demo, soon. I've used the 18x20 PT for about 15 years straight, every now and then I'll demo something and not be too impressed, but on paper and per some of the reviews, the open pattern and similar flex of the PB10 intrigue me.

 

[jayserinos99]

JT, my main frame now is the PB10mid but I will always keep my PT630s. Are both flexy, yes, but I think the PB10 is maybe a tad more powerful but I think it's because my PT630s have a bit more wear and tear. The PT630, due to sheer weight, hits a more heavier ball but I feel I can do a bit more with the PB10 because of the open pattern and a slightly lower swingweight, although I'd have to concentrate more on returns with the PB10 due to the smaller head.

 

[TennisMaverick]

Broadway and 19th......

 

[TennisMaverick]

Volkl will be shipping PB 10 Mid's to all soon to be happy people who believe themselves worthy of such a refined tool.

 

[cork_screw]

Your thread has contradicting statements. First, you don't have to be 5.0 to play with this frame. You could be 4.0, even 3.5 and hit pretty well with it. That's its charm, it's such an easy frame to use and the control is amazing. I think they just throw the NTRP level range as a racquet that is of "tour" level as of any company that produces as "pro" line. Secondly, club players are usually very good in between 4.5 - 5.5. There's probably more abundance of 5.0 club players that you'll find than 4.5, so I don't see how you would lump them into two DIFFERENT categories.

Your other statement of complaints about it are just from indvidual tastes, people complain that the pro staff line is "too stiff" does that mean that there's not a market group for them? No, because that would mean that the racquet is flawless. If someone is playing with a tweener say 10.6 and they pick it up, it's obviously going to feel heavier at 12.1 oz. It's more of what they're used to and you'll get a lot of that with more random people giving it a test drive seeing as how it's been hyped up a lot. People gave the K90 a lot of hype and a lot of people who aren't a good fit for the k90 had complaints of their own.

You're thread suggests that this racquet is for everyone, which it isn't. More so, no racquet fits that description. This racquet has qualities that appeal to individual tastes and styles in which a lot of people differ, the number of people demoing this racquet who are playing with say an aeropro drive for example are the ones who might be voicing their qualms of the differences that they might not be used to.

I really like this racquet, but is it a magic stick? It really kicks-butt in sales, but according to Volkl, it was designed for 5.0 minimum-7.0 players. So why do so many club players insist on using a frame that they complain to be either too heavy, too small, too whippy, etc., as they refuse to believe that the racquet's qualities are just too far above their ability level to get everything out of it.

And then, further state these issues as negative comments in numerous threads, and STILL use the stick. What's up with that?

 

[BobFL]

Your thread has contradicting statements. First, you don't have to be 5.0 to play with this frame. You could be 4.0, even 3.5 and hit pretty well with it. That's its charm, it's such an easy frame to use and the control is amazing. I think they just throw the NTRP level range as a racquet that is of "tour" level as of any company that produces as "pro" line. Secondly, club players are usually very good in between 4.5 - 5.5. There's probably more abundance of 5.0 club players that you'll find than 4.5, so I don't see how you would lump them into two DIFFERENT categories.

Your other statement of complaints about it are just from indvidual tastes, people complain that the pro staff line is "too stiff" does that mean that there's not a market group for them? No, because that would mean that the racquet is flawless. If someone is playing with a tweener say 10.6 and they pick it up, it's obviously going to feel heavier at 12.1 oz. It's more of what they're used to and you'll get a lot of that with more random people giving it a test drive seeing as how it's been hyped up a lot. People gave the K90 a lot of hype and a lot of people who aren't a good fit for the k90 had complaints of their own.

You're thread suggests that this racquet is for everyone, which it isn't. More so, no racquet fits that description. This racquet has qualities that appeal to individual tastes and styles in which a lot of people differ, the number of people demoing this racquet who are playing with say an aeropro drive for example are the ones who might be voicing their qualms of the differences that they might not be used to.

Smirnoff or Chivas Regal?

 

[aggietex08]

I often struggle thinking I might be in need of a racquet change because while I use the PB10mid, I will be the first to admit I am no 4.5-5.0 player. I am much lower at the 3.5-4.0 player area. The complaints I hear about the PB10mid are usually weight and headsize.

I'm a fit 24 year old so I don't struggle with the weight.

I hit off center more than I would like so I thought a larger headsize would help, but when I put the PB10mid on top of my old APDC I can barely tell a difference in the head size. I did the same thing with a Graphite 100 and a 6.1Tour and could again, barely tell a difference. I do not see why everyone goes on about how big a difference headsize makes. I think the sweetspot of the racquet makes the biggest difference. The PB10 is known for having a large sweet spot.

So back to my struggle with thinking that a new racquet might help. I tend to play a more defensive type of game, though I am trying to become more aggresive. Would a change in equipment help or is this the typical case of opperator error?

 

[Hominator]

I think the PB10 mid is like a high-performance sports car. Anyone can drive it, but it probably takes some skill to truly appreciate what it can do. The casual driver might complain that a sports car's suspension is too stiff, engine is too loud, etc., but that driver is not for whom the sports car was designed. Can the casual driver take it around town to run errands? Sure, but there might be a better car that suits that kind of driver.

Personally, I appreciate the PB10 mid most when I'm hitting out, playing against better competition (college players). I don't hit nearly as well with my PB10 mid when I hit with my wife, just messing around. For that kind of hitting, I prefer a tweener-type frame.

 

[zumzool]

I often struggle thinking I might be in need of a racquet change because while I use the PB10mid, I will be the first to admit I am no 4.5-5.0 player. I am much lower at the 3.5-4.0 player area. The complaints I hear about the PB10mid are usually weight and headsize.

I'm a fit 24 year old so I don't struggle with the weight.

I hit off center more than I would like so I thought a larger headsize would help, but when I put the PB10mid on top of my old APDC I can barely tell a difference in the head size. I did the same thing with a Graphite 100 and a 6.1Tour and could again, barely tell a difference. I do not see why everyone goes on about how big a difference headsize makes. I think the sweetspot of the racquet makes the biggest difference. The PB10 is known for having a large sweet spot.

So back to my struggle with thinking that a new racquet might help. I tend to play a more defensive type of game, though I am trying to become more aggresive. Would a change in equipment help or is this the typical case of opperator error?

when I think of people with a defensive type game, I think of someone who is continually on the run trying to get the ball back in less than ideal conditions. In that case, I think a larger headsize helps because you have a larger margin of error when blocking back harder shots from your opponent and the larger headshot usually means a slightly larger sweetspot.

With a smaller racquet like a PB10, especially at a 3.5-4.0 rating, I think technique becomes more of a factor. The set up for a shot is very important and as a defensive player, I don't know if you normally have that time to prep for a shot.

If you want to try other racquets, you should demo the Becker London which might fit your game better. It's slightly larger for more margin of error, but also lighter and more maneuverable. it also has a lot of characteristics like the PB10 such as the smaller beam with and soft feel. And you can still be an aggressive player if you'd like.

 

[ramos]

PB 10 mid , the best ever !

the best RQT that I"ve in hands in 40 years.
It has control if you want it, power if you want it, and so on... Its up to you.
I string it with LUX original mains 48 and VS gut crosses 52.
Hold tension for about 14 hours of hard play.
This RQT excel just because excel, no matter what player we are, pro, teacher, club level.

 

[Austinthecity]

It also depends what your goals are. If you're not a great player, you might want to switch to a high level stick to improve your swing. With the PB10, you have to have a pretty darn good swing and swing speed to hit a great ball - and when you do, you'll know it.

However, this means that you'll lose. A lot. But what are your goals? To win right now or improve your swing and improve your game over time?

 

[BobFL]

It also depends what your goals are. If you're not a great player, you might want to switch to a high level stick to improve your swing. With the PB10, you have to have a pretty darn good swing and swing speed to hit a great ball - and when you do, you'll know it.

However, this means that you'll lose. A lot. But what are your goals? To win right now or improve your swing and improve your game over time?

I couldn't disagree more. This is just a poor logic and it leads to failure and lack of motivation. Nothing motivates like success and winning. So according to your logic, beginner basketball player should go directly to NBA and lose a lot against Lebron and Wade in order to improve? That person will just get frustrated and never make any success. There is a very good reason why we have different levels within same sports. You should change your racquet or your specs as you improve your game. Basically, you match skills and tools. Demanding racquet will not fix your swing if it is not already there and playing against Lebron James will not fix your technique and make you jump higher.

 

[zumzool]

It also depends what your goals are. If you're not a great player, you might want to switch to a high level stick to improve your swing. With the PB10, you have to have a pretty darn good swing and swing speed to hit a great ball - and when you do, you'll know it.

However, this means that you'll lose. A lot. But what are your goals? To win right now or improve your swing and improve your game over time?

I mostly agree with your assessment.

I think more demanding racquets do require better footwork and preparations for shots. This helps less skilled players like myself with my mechanics because it forces me to be a better player if I want to be successful. If I went with a less demanding racquet, the need to follow through on my swing and set up isn't there and you tend to get lazy because you can get away with it.

However, I don't think this necessarily means that you will lose more. I think you'll just be more inconsistent because off center hits aren't as forgiving.

 

[Don S]

So, just out of curiousity, is anyone using the PB 10 mid that also used or still uses the old Gen 1 Tour 10 Mid?

I love my Tour 10s and wondered how the PB 10 Mid compares to the Tour 10.

 

[TennisMaverick]

So, just out of curiousity, is anyone using the PB 10 mid that also used or still uses the old Gen 1 Tour 10 Mid?

I love my Tour 10s and wondered how the PB 10 Mid compares to the Tour 10.

The T10 Mids are more powerful, plow thru a little better, hit with less spin, have a little better directional control, and have a shorter dwell time. The PB 10 Mid swings faster through the air and is designed to be customized; the T10 Mid was deemed heavy by many, who subsequently, trimmed the CAP grommets. The PB 10 also allows you to grind the ball much better than the T10 Mid.

Personally, I found that the T10 Mids ball response to be too quick due to the 20 mm beam. I was able to do much more with the ball with the 19 mm T10 VE Mid. The PB 10, although 16 mains, really plays more like a nano carbon T10 VE Mid--it plays like an 18 main when driving the ball and a 16 main when applying spin--which is all due to the lay-up.

All BB/Volkl 10 Line Mids will be 19 mm from now on, including the possible Organix 10 Mid and BB Legend Mid, if they are made.

 

[dParis]

All BB/Volkl 10 Line Mids will be 19 mm from now on, including the possible Organix 10 Mid and BB Legend Mid, if they are made.

I was under the impression the X10mid was to be released in Q2 2012. That's the public word from Volkl anyhow.

Do you know if a Legend/Melbourne mid would be 16M or 18M?

 

[jl83]

Can anyone compared the PB10 to the PB9? I've been playing with the PB10 for over a year and I really love it. However, after reading this thread, as a 4.5 player, I'm wondering if I should be playing with a PB9 instead. Does it have similar feel and power but just more forgiving?

 

[zumzool]

Can anyone compared the PB10 to the PB9? I've been playing with the PB10 for over a year and I really love it. However, after reading this thread, as a 4.5 player, I'm wondering if I should be playing with a PB9 instead. Does it have similar feel and power but just more forgiving?

The Becker London is probably closer to the PB10 than the PB9. THe London is closer in stiffness to the PB10 than the PB9

 

[TennisMaverick]

I was under the impression the X10mid was to be released in Q2 2012. That's the public word from Volkl anyhow.

Do you know if a Legend/Melbourne mid would be 16M or 18M?

That's the plan....PB 10 Mid rules for the year.

I'm not sure where I mentioned this elsewhere, but if they make it, it will be 18 mains. The lines are diverging. And it will be substantial in weight.

 

[TennisMaverick]

Can anyone compared the PB10 to the PB9? I've been playing with the PB10 for over a year and I really love it. However, after reading this thread, as a 4.5 player, I'm wondering if I should be playing with a PB9 instead. Does it have similar feel and power but just more forgiving?

Yes...if you want more forgiving but a similar grind/dwell time, go with the London. The response off of the PB 9 is quicker/snappier--it is better compared to the PB 10 MP in ball response but lighter, stiffer, and more bite.

 

[TennisMaverick]

It's time to put the inflated egos away. Now that there is a PB 9, the London, the Melbourne, and two versions of an X10, unless you're a 5.5 player minimum, who pressures the back of the ball, you have no business playing with the PB 10 Mid.