Ways to get very slow balls from a ball machine?

[Chas Tennis]

My worst problem in tennis is keeping my eye on the ball. Just to train some better eye habits, I'd like somewhat reproducible ball feeds, very slow, and waist high.

With my SP Lite when I turn down the pace for very slow shots the reproducibility goes down and a considerable percentage of balls don't clear the net.

I use regular balls selected so that they feel firm pressure wise. I understand that some pressureless balls might improve the reproducibility but at $100 for 48 it would be too expensive to buy ~200 balls.

Considering elevating the ball machine on a stand or even moving it to the close side of the net. ?

How do you operate your ball machine for very slow feeds?

 

[sundaypunch]

I usually move it up around the service line and adjust the height and speed as needed.

 

[jonestim]

I have a Tennis Tutor Plus. When I want slow, consistent balls I set the machine on the same side of the net as me, turn the speed down to 0, and turn up the elevation so it lobs it. The ball hits a few feet in front of the baseline. I can then dial in the spin setting to get them to bounce close to the height I am looking for. I use Penn pressureless balls which are much cheaper than you mention. I pick them up in bags of 12 for $8 locally.

 

[bugeyed]

You can put the machine on a cart. Ideal height is about 30". That should allow the machine to send a slower ball farther, since it doesn't have to launch it up to get over the net. It's actually a better setup for general use. I use a wire (Metro style) utility cart with wheels, that you can order from Walmart or find on Amazon.

Cheers,
kev