What new racket can I buy today that has the most similar feel to the classic old feel?

[M A]

Hi guys, the racket I liked most in my life was the Fischer Pro Number One 98 from 2001, I could feel exactly where the ball hit the racquet string. I tested several racquets last year and found them all very muted. I decided to buy the version released last year of the Pacific X Force Pro Number One 98 2023 and found the racket to have a completely different feel. I would like suggestions for rackets that have this exact sensation of where the ball hits the string. The only request is that it has a maximum swingweight of 325 grams. I would also like a suggestion on the best string, gauge, to give this feel, it can be poly, multi, hybrid, less natural gut which is too expensive to use all the time. The tension I typically use is 48 pounds. Thank you very much, hugs to everyone!

 

[SOY78]

Head Gravity Pro for starters

 

[Gee]

i would suggest a few:
Head Prestige Pro 18x20 Auxetic
Wilson Ultra Pro 18x20 (customized to 325 SW)
Angell TC95/97/99. You can configure your desired setup by their website.

 

[BumElbow]

Head Gravity MP. I really like the semi-dense string pattern and the flex and prefer v2 with auxetic to v1 which I find harsh.

Basically, a classic feeling racquet should have some flex and a string pattern than is on the denser side. Modern racquets have a crisper feel due to added stiffness which enhances power, stability and enlarges the sweetspot. While they play great, I have never been able to adjust to the crisp feel and my wrist and elbow don't appreciate it either.

 

[mmazzinin1]

Head Gravity Pro for starters

It might just be me, but when I tried to move from my Head Pro Tour 630 to the Gravity Pro, it was a bit of a shock. Dont get me wrong, the Gravity does all quite well and it has a fair amount of power, but the feel is significantly different- it lacks that plush, all-sorrounding-you magic feel...it is very direct, nothing like the old school ones. But im just an average club player, so take my words with grano salis.

And i imagine the MP version to be even more "modern" in the feel space...

 

[NicoMK]

Hi guys, the racket I liked most in my life was the Fischer Pro Number One 98 from 2001, I could feel exactly where the ball hit the racquet string.

Why don't you stick with it then..?

 

[Grafil Injection]

Prestiges and Dunlop CX200s

 

[McLovin]

I tested several racquets last year and found them all very muted

This is going to be your biggest issue going forward. I know many players who prefer their Dr100s & Pure Aero 2016s to the newer counterparts, mainly due to all of the vibration dampening technology.

As a previous Pro No 1 user (circa 2008…Black Granite version, so not as old as yours), I can say that there is nothing out there that replicates the “Fischer feel”. Your best bet is to choose something you like power/weight/swingweight wise, and play around with strings & tension to get a feel you can play with.

That, or constantly browse the ‘bay looking for more Pro No 1s. The good news is, the string pattern hasn’t changed in 25 years, so the Pacific grommets will fit your frame (I know, I’ve done it in the past).

 

[Gemini]

As a previous Pro No 1 user (circa 2008…Black Granite version, so not as old as yours), I can say that there is nothing out there that replicates the “Fischer feel”. Your best bet is to choose something you like power/weight/swingweight wise, and play around with strings & tension to get a feel you can play with.

I can second that. I'm a Fischer user from the late 90s (VT Pro 98 was my first stick of choice and then onto the 2001Red/Silver Pro No. 1s). I eventually moved on to and settled in with Yonex frames. The Yonex feel is/was different from the Fischer feel even back in the early 2000s but I was able to adapt to Yonex racquets more easily than any other brand outside of Fischer. Other than racquets that are designed to be more in line with that classic feel (Prestige, Pro Staff), everything is going to be very muted compared to what one experiences with the Pro No. 1.

 

[NicoMK]

I can second that. I'm a Fischer user from the late 90s (VT Pro 98 was my first stick of choice and then onto the 2001Red/Silver Pro No. 1s). I eventually moved on to and settled in with Yonex frames. The Yonex feel is/was different from the Fischer feel even back in the early 2000s but I was able to adapt to Yonex racquets more easily than any other brand outside of Fischer. Other than racquets that are designed to be more in line with that classic feel (Prestige, Pro Staff), everything is going to be very muted compared to what one experiences with the Pro No. 1.

Same here, except that so far I haven't been able to replace my Fischers, and I tried several times...

It's also why I asked the OP why he doesn't want to stick with his old but not obsolete racket...

@M A : you can find something that you may like just like @Gemini , but you won't find something similar as your Fischer.

If it's to replace it by something with similar specs that you will probably like less, why changing?

Well at least it's the conclusion to which I came for myself. For now...

 

[lefty10spro]

It's the Prince Phantom line - end of discussion.

 

[NicoMK]

It's the Prince Phantom line - end of discussion.

Nice racket indeed. Plays well, very soft. May be an option. Different feel yet, and yes, I've tried it.

 

[McLovin]

I eventually moved on to and settled in with Yonex frames.

That’s where I ended up: did two stints w/ VCORE 98s (2nd Gen, then the 2021).

I’ve now fully committed to the Dark Side (literally and figuratively), moving to the Blackout XTD 2 years ago (it’s essentially a PD clone). I looked around and saw I was the only one of my friends who wasn’t using some form of tweener, and they were all much younger than me.

Still have my Black Granites, and will pull them out on occasion just for fun, but they are too low powered for me at this stage in my life.

 

[NicoMK]

Still have my Black Granites, and will pull them out on occasion just for fun, but they are too low powered for me at this stage in my life.

I have one at home, I also have a M Pro 98. Might string them today and give them a go. I haven't hit with them for ages.

 

[Trip]

JI think it might be of help to some to get acquainted with the Fischer Pro Number One in question (I presume it's the 330g version). Since the frame is nearly 25 years old, there is no RacquetFinder profile (as least not an accurate one), so we'll link to the archived TW listing instead:

Fischer Pro Number One Racquets

2001 Fischer Pro Number One
Length: 27" (though it was really 27.3" with a "bubbled" butt cap)
Head Size: 98"
Pattern: 16x20, 8 throat mains
Mold/Beam: Hybrid-Box, constant-taper 25mm-tip to 20mm-neck
Layup: Graphite/Ceramic (though the inclusion of ceramic in this generation is debatable)
Static Weight: 330g unstrung / 346g strung
Swing Weight: ~295 unstrung / ~325 strung
Balance: 31.0cm unstrung (~10pts HL) / 32.0cm strung (~7pts HL)
RA: 65 unstrung

So, we have a 98" player's frame, classic 330g layup, direct/raw/connected feel, mildly-isometric hoop shape, 20-25mm tapered beam with good tip stability, medium-firm flex, good stock plow-through and a nice balance of precision, spin access and forgiveness (for the era, anyways).

As @McLovin said, the primary issue you're going to have is finding something with similar feel, let alone with other similar specs. There really isn't anything out there today that can replicate all of that together in one frame, so if you can source more from The Bay or elsewhere, that would be my first recommendation. If, for whatever reason, you simply must find a currently-made frame that gets as close as possible, here's what I would look at, all of which will need at least some amount of customization (save for perhaps the C10 Pro):

Mainstream:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - If you value the softer/lower-powered qualities of the Pro One, it may work. Will need handle and hoop weight. Feel is good, although a tad more muted, for sure.
- Dunlop CX 200 2024 - The mild-isometric hoop is the closest in shape of anything made, and the feel, while more muted, isn't that far away. It is way lower in spec, though, so will need extensive customization.
- Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 2024 - In several ways, it's the gem of the silo. Will need less customizing than the regular 200, but still might not be forgiving or thick-beamed enough for your liking.
- Head Radical Pro or MP - The Radical mold will flex differently, for sure, and feel won't be as plush nor direct, but still worth considering. Either the Pro with less customizing, or the MP with more.
- Prince ATS Tour 95 or 98 - A bit more muted, but thicker beamed towards the tip and pretty beefy feeling. I'd recommend a matching service on the 98, as a fair amount of them are over-spec on swing weight.
- ProKennex Black Ace Pro - Might be too soft and/or unforgiving in the same way as the Ultra Pro, and/or you may not get along with the "maracas" sounds, but a very connected feel, worth a try.
- ProKennex Black Ace 300/315 - The 315 is probably the better choice for less customizing needed. Similar to the Pro in terms of feel and general playability, just more forgiving and powerful.
- ProKennex Ki Q+ Tour Pro 315 - An actual 98 from PK, a bit more firm in flex than the Black Ace models, while not being as firm as the Q+ 5's. Definitely worth a try.
- ProKennex Kinetic Pro 5G - With a bit of tip weight, this could be the one from PK that ticks the most boxes.
- Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 - Foam-filled, so a more dampened, but otherwise direct/unfiltered. Offers 5g and 10g weighted butt caps to help with customizing. The 18x20 is also very open, so it spins/lifts more like a 16m.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - Another foam-filled-but-direct alternative. If you can get over the more rectangular grip shape, the TF40 is one of the better-feeling frames out there.
- Volkl C10 Pro - The most pickup-and-play ready in stock form, but will be noticeably more muted/muffled than your Pro One, and sweet spot is lower. Might work, though.
- Wilson Blade v9 98 16x19, maybe 100 - With handle weight (leather grip, etc), will be more muted in feel, but depending on how you have your Pro One's setup, might work.
- Wilson Pro Staff X - The 100" bigger brother of the 97; compared to the Pro One's 98 mildly-isometric shape and where you're at now, it will likely be a better match for you than the 97.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - Probably some of the best feel of any retail frame made, but will need a good amount of customization, and may still feel too anemic/unforgiving/thin-beamed compared to the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 or 97D - These are borderline, as the feel will be way more muted/muffled. The 97 will need handle + hoop weight; the D won't need anything, but the 18x20 may or may not work for you.

Boutique/Direct-to-Consumer

- Angell TC95/97, maybe 99 - At the 330g/310mm spec, maybe 27.25" length - Foam-filled, so more dampened feel, and a bit more thuddy/clubby than what you're used to with the Pro One, but great frames.
- Angell React Custom MP 99 16x19 - At same spec as the TC - Hollow-core and more aero beam, so faster than the TC's, but not quite as solid or stable in stock form. Could be fixable with light hoop lead.

Left out: Prestige (too different), non-Radical Heads (all too muted), TFights (305 way off, others too open/finicky), RF 01/Pro (too different).

As for strings, this is where you can potentially make up enough ground to make one or more of the above frames playable enough, by using the absolute most crisp, lively, responsive options, namely:
- Poly: silver/alu/grey metallic-composite co-poly's will give the most feel/crispness (examples: Luxilon Alu/Rough, Solinco Tour Bite/Soft, Head Hawk Silver, Kirschbaum Max Power/Rough, MSV Bussard)
- Multi: Tecnifibre Multifeel, Signum Pro Micronite
- Multi/Poly Fusion "Multiester": Tecnifibre Triax, Yonex Rexis Speed, Wilson NXT Control
- Syn Gut: Gosen OG Sheep Micro or AK Pro CX, Prince Syn Gut w/ Duraflex Lightning XX, Yonex Dynawire
- Gut: I know you said it's a no-go, but depending on the setup you choose, gut may last longer and cost less over time than certain synthetics in a hybrid; I find Luxilon to be the most crisp

Hope all of that helps. Any questions, feel free.

 

[vsbabolat]

Hi guys, the racket I liked most in my life was the Fischer Pro Number One 98 from 2001, I could feel exactly where the ball hit the racquet string. I tested several racquets last year and found them all very muted. I decided to buy the version released last year of the Pacific X Force Pro Number One 98 2023 and found the racket to have a completely different feel. I would like suggestions for rackets that have this exact sensation of where the ball hits the string. The only request is that it has a maximum swingweight of 325 grams. I would also like a suggestion on the best string, gauge, to give this feel, it can be poly, multi, hybrid, less natural gut which is too expensive to use all the time. The tension I typically use is 48 pounds. Thank you very much, hugs to everyone!

HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0

Head Prestige Classic 2.0 Racquet | Tennis Warehouse

www.tennis-warehouse.com

HEAD Prestige Pro 2023

Head Prestige Pro 2023 Racquet | Tennis Warehouse

www.tennis-warehouse.com

 

[NicoMK]

JI think it might be of help to some to get acquainted with the Fischer Pro Number One in question (I presume it's the 330g version). Since the frame is nearly 25 years old, there is no RacquetFinder profile (as least not an accurate one), so we'll link to the archived TW listing instead:

Fischer Pro Number One Racquets

2001 Fischer Pro Number One
Length: 27" (though it was really 27.3" with a "bubbled" butt cap)
Head Size: 98"
Pattern: 16x20, 8 throat mains
Mold/Beam: Hybrid-Box, constant-taper 25mm-tip to 20mm-neck
Layup: Graphite/Ceramic (though the inclusion of ceramic in this generation is debatable)
Static Weight: 330g unstrung / 346g strung
Swing Weight: ~295 unstrung / ~325 strung
Balance: 31.0cm unstrung (~10pts HL) / 32.0cm strung (~7pts HL)
RA: 65 unstrung

So, we have a 98" player's frame, classic 330g layup, direct/raw/connected feel, mildly-isometric hoop shape, 20-25mm tapered beam with good tip stability, medium-firm flex, good stock plow-through and a nice balance of precision, spin access and forgiveness (for the era, anyways).

As @McLovin said, the primary issue you're going to have is finding something with similar feel, let alone with other similar specs. There really isn't anything out there today that can replicate all of that together in one frame, so if you can source more from The Bay or elsewhere, that would be my first recommendation. If, for whatever reason, you simply must find a currently-made frame that gets as close as possible, here's what I would look at, all of which will need at least some amount of customization:

Mainstream:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - If you value the softer/lower-powered qualities of the Pro One, it may work. Will need handle and hoop weight. Feel is good, although a tad more muted, for sure.
- Dunlop CX 200 2024 - The mild-isometric hoop is the closest in shape of anything made, and the feel, while more muted, isn't that far away. It is way lower in spec, though, so will need extensive customization.
- Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 2024 - In several ways, it's the gem of the silo. Will need less customizing than the regular 200, but still might not be forgiving or thick-beamed enough for your liking.
- Head Radical Pro or MP - The Radical mold will flex differently, for sure, and feel won't be as plush nor direct, but still worth considering. Either the Pro with less customizing, or the MP with more.
- Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 - Foam-filled, so a more dampened, but otherwise direct/unfiltered. Offers 5g and 10g weighted butt caps to help with customizing. The 18x20 is also very open, so it spins/lifts more like a 16m.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - Another foam-filled-but-direct alternative. If you can get over the more rectangular grip shape, the TF40 is one of the better-feeling frames out there.
- Volkl C10 Pro - The most pickup-and-play ready in stock form, but will be noticeably more muted/muffled than your Pro One, and sweet spot is lower. Might work, though.
- Wilson Blade v9 98 16x19, maybe 100 - With handle weight (leather grip, etc), will be more muted in feel, but depending on how you have your Pro One's setup, might work.
- Wilson Pro Staff X - The 100" bigger brother of the 97; compared to the Pro One's 98 mildly-isometric shape and where you're at now, it will likely be a better match for you than the 97.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - Probably the best feel of any hollow-core retail frame made, but will need a good amount of customization, and may still feel too anemic/unforgiving/thin-beamed compared to the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 or 97D - These are borderline, as the feel will be way more muted/muffled. The 97 will need handle + hoop weight; the D won't need anything, but the 18x20 may or may not work for you.

Boutique/Direct-to-Consumer

- Angell TC95/97, maybe 99 - At the 330g/310mm spec, maybe 27.25" length - Foam-filled, so more dampened feel, and a bit more thuddy/clubby than what you're used to with the Pro One, but great frames.
- Angell React Custom MP 99 16x19 - At same spec as the TC - Hollow-core and more aero beam, so faster than the TC's, but not quite as solid or stable in stock form. Could be fixable with light hoop lead.

Left out: Prestige (too different), non-Radical Heads (all too muted), TFights (305 way off, others too open/finicky), RF 01/Pro (too different).

As for strings, this is where you can potentially make up enough ground to make one or more of the above frames playable enough, by using the absolute most crisp, lively, responsive options, namely:
- Poly: silver/alu/grey metallic-composite co-poly's will give the most feel/crispness (examples: Luxilon Alu/Rough, Solinco Tour Bite/Soft, Head Hawk Silver, Kirschbaum Max Power/Rough, MSV Bussard)
- Multi: Tecnifibre Multifeel, Signum Pro Micronite
- Multi/Poly Fusion "Multiester": Tecnifibre Triax, Yonex Rexis Speed, Wilson NXT Control
- Syn Gut: Gosen OG Sheep Micro or AK Pro CX, Prince Syn Gut w/ Duraflex Lightning XX, Yonex Dynawire
- Gut: I know you said it's a no-go, but depending on the setup you choose, gut may last longer and cost less over time than certain synthetics in a hybrid; I find Luxilon to be the most crisp

Hope all of that helps. Any questions, feel free.

Great post thanks.

I add to your list Pro Kennex's Ki Black Ace 300 or 315, which may be a good replacement. Haven't tested none though, I will if I have the opportunity.

 

[Trip]

I add to your list Pro Kennex's Ki Black Ace 300 or 315, which may be a good replacement. Haven't tested none though, I will if I have the opportunity.

Ahh yes! Forgot to add Prince and ProKennex to my list. Added select models from both.

 

[MasterSlice74]

Blade Pro and Ultra Pro

 

[Nole Ivanisevic]

Prestige Classic 2.0 or Tecnifibre T40

 

[Trip]

Blade Pro and Ultra Pro

Prestige Classic 2.0 or Tecnifibre T40

Blade Pro - Too high in swing weight, unless he does a matching service and samples are available at <=295sw
Ultra Pro - Worth a look.
PC 2.0 - Too small a head size and dense a pattern.
TF40 - Worth a look.

 

[Gee]

JI think it might be of help to some to get acquainted with the Fischer Pro Number One in question (I presume it's the 330g version). Since the frame is nearly 25 years old, there is no RacquetFinder profile (as least not an accurate one), so we'll link to the archived TW listing instead:

Fischer Pro Number One Racquets

2001 Fischer Pro Number One
Length: 27" (though it was really 27.3" with a "bubbled" butt cap)
Head Size: 98"
Pattern: 16x20, 8 throat mains
Mold/Beam: Hybrid-Box, constant-taper 25mm-tip to 20mm-neck
Layup: Graphite/Ceramic (though the inclusion of ceramic in this generation is debatable)
Static Weight: 330g unstrung / 346g strung
Swing Weight: ~295 unstrung / ~325 strung
Balance: 31.0cm unstrung (~10pts HL) / 32.0cm strung (~7pts HL)
RA: 65 unstrung

So, we have a 98" player's frame, classic 330g layup, direct/raw/connected feel, mildly-isometric hoop shape, 20-25mm tapered beam with good tip stability, medium-firm flex, good stock plow-through and a nice balance of precision, spin access and forgiveness (for the era, anyways).

As @McLovin said, the primary issue you're going to have is finding something with similar feel, let alone with other similar specs. There really isn't anything out there today that can replicate all of that together in one frame, so if you can source more from The Bay or elsewhere, that would be my first recommendation. If, for whatever reason, you simply must find a currently-made frame that gets as close as possible, here's what I would look at, all of which will need at least some amount of customization:

Mainstream:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - If you value the softer/lower-powered qualities of the Pro One, it may work. Will need handle and hoop weight. Feel is good, although a tad more muted, for sure.
- Dunlop CX 200 2024 - The mild-isometric hoop is the closest in shape of anything made, and the feel, while more muted, isn't that far away. It is way lower in spec, though, so will need extensive customization.
- Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 2024 - In several ways, it's the gem of the silo. Will need less customizing than the regular 200, but still might not be forgiving or thick-beamed enough for your liking.
- Head Radical Pro or MP - The Radical mold will flex differently, for sure, and feel won't be as plush nor direct, but still worth considering. Either the Pro with less customizing, or the MP with more.
- Prince ATS Tour 95 or 98 - A bit more muted, but thicker beamed towards the tip and pretty beefy feeling. I'd recommend a matching service on the 98, as a fair amount of them are over-spec on swing weight.
- ProKennex Black Ace Pro - Might be too soft and/or unforgiving in the same way as the Ultra Pro, and/or you may not get along with the "maracas" sounds, but a very connected feel, worth a try.
- ProKennex Black Ace 300/315 - The 315 is probably the better choice for less customizing needed. Similar to the Pro in terms of feel and general playability, just more forgiving and powerful.
- ProKennex Ki Q+ Tour Pro 315 - An actual 98 from PK, a bit more firm in flex than the Black Ace models, while not being as firm as the Q+ 5's. Definitely worth a try.
- ProKennex Kinetic Pro 5G - With a bit of tip weight, this could be the one from PK that ticks the most boxes.
- Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 - Foam-filled, so a more dampened, but otherwise direct/unfiltered. Offers 5g and 10g weighted butt caps to help with customizing. The 18x20 is also very open, so it spins/lifts more like a 16m.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - Another foam-filled-but-direct alternative. If you can get over the more rectangular grip shape, the TF40 is one of the better-feeling frames out there.
- Volkl C10 Pro - The most pickup-and-play ready in stock form, but will be noticeably more muted/muffled than your Pro One, and sweet spot is lower. Might work, though.
- Wilson Blade v9 98 16x19, maybe 100 - With handle weight (leather grip, etc), will be more muted in feel, but depending on how you have your Pro One's setup, might work.
- Wilson Pro Staff X - The 100" bigger brother of the 97; compared to the Pro One's 98 mildly-isometric shape and where you're at now, it will likely be a better match for you than the 97.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - Probably the best feel of any hollow-core retail frame made, but will need a good amount of customization, and may still feel too anemic/unforgiving/thin-beamed compared to the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 or 97D - These are borderline, as the feel will be way more muted/muffled. The 97 will need handle + hoop weight; the D won't need anything, but the 18x20 may or may not work for you.

Boutique/Direct-to-Consumer

- Angell TC95/97, maybe 99 - At the 330g/310mm spec, maybe 27.25" length - Foam-filled, so more dampened feel, and a bit more thuddy/clubby than what you're used to with the Pro One, but great frames.
- Angell React Custom MP 99 16x19 - At same spec as the TC - Hollow-core and more aero beam, so faster than the TC's, but not quite as solid or stable in stock form. Could be fixable with light hoop lead.

Left out: Prestige (too different), non-Radical Heads (all too muted), TFights (305 way off, others too open/finicky), RF 01/Pro (too different).

As for strings, this is where you can potentially make up enough ground to make one or more of the above frames playable enough, by using the absolute most crisp, lively, responsive options, namely:
- Poly: silver/alu/grey metallic-composite co-poly's will give the most feel/crispness (examples: Luxilon Alu/Rough, Solinco Tour Bite/Soft, Head Hawk Silver, Kirschbaum Max Power/Rough, MSV Bussard)
- Multi: Tecnifibre Multifeel, Signum Pro Micronite
- Multi/Poly Fusion "Multiester": Tecnifibre Triax, Yonex Rexis Speed, Wilson NXT Control
- Syn Gut: Gosen OG Sheep Micro or AK Pro CX, Prince Syn Gut w/ Duraflex Lightning XX, Yonex Dynawire
- Gut: I know you said it's a no-go, but depending on the setup you choose, gut may last longer and cost less over time than certain synthetics in a hybrid; I find Luxilon to be the most crisp

Hope all of that helps. Any questions, feel free.

Great list of frames, strings and useful notes.
However I would like to make only one comment that the Wilson Ultra Pro/Tour is foam filled.

 

[Trip]

Great list of frames, strings and useful notes.
However I would like to make only one comment that the Wilson Ultra Pro/Tour is foam filled.

Interesting. Was very much under the impression that the UT/UP wasn't foam filled, at least not in the hoop (with such a pedestrian stock swing weight), but with such a thin beam, probably not much foam gets up in there anyways, so very much believable I guess. Will correct my post! Thank you!

 

[jmacdaununder2]

Played with Fischer 98s for years.
Agree that vacuum moulding & Austrian manufacture are now almost impossible to replicate.
Currently playing with modified Prince Tour 95s and 2023 VCore 98s.

 

[mctennis]

JI think it might be of help to some to get acquainted with the Fischer Pro Number One in question (I presume it's the 330g version). Since the frame is nearly 25 years old, there is no RacquetFinder profile (as least not an accurate one), so we'll link to the archived TW listing instead:

Fischer Pro Number One Racquets

2001 Fischer Pro Number One
Length: 27" (though it was really 27.3" with a "bubbled" butt cap)
Head Size: 98"
Pattern: 16x20, 8 throat mains
Mold/Beam: Hybrid-Box, constant-taper 25mm-tip to 20mm-neck
Layup: Graphite/Ceramic (though the inclusion of ceramic in this generation is debatable)
Static Weight: 330g unstrung / 346g strung
Swing Weight: ~295 unstrung / ~325 strung
Balance: 31.0cm unstrung (~10pts HL) / 32.0cm strung (~7pts HL)
RA: 65 unstrung

So, we have a 98" player's frame, classic 330g layup, direct/raw/connected feel, mildly-isometric hoop shape, 20-25mm tapered beam with good tip stability, medium-firm flex, good stock plow-through and a nice balance of precision, spin access and forgiveness (for the era, anyways).

As @McLovin said, the primary issue you're going to have is finding something with similar feel, let alone with other similar specs. There really isn't anything out there today that can replicate all of that together in one frame, so if you can source more from The Bay or elsewhere, that would be my first recommendation. If, for whatever reason, you simply must find a currently-made frame that gets as close as possible, here's what I would look at, all of which will need at least some amount of customization (save for perhaps the C10 Pro):

Mainstream:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - If you value the softer/lower-powered qualities of the Pro One, it may work. Will need handle and hoop weight. Feel is good, although a tad more muted, for sure.
- Dunlop CX 200 2024 - The mild-isometric hoop is the closest in shape of anything made, and the feel, while more muted, isn't that far away. It is way lower in spec, though, so will need extensive customization.
- Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 2024 - In several ways, it's the gem of the silo. Will need less customizing than the regular 200, but still might not be forgiving or thick-beamed enough for your liking.
- Head Radical Pro or MP - The Radical mold will flex differently, for sure, and feel won't be as plush nor direct, but still worth considering. Either the Pro with less customizing, or the MP with more.
- Prince ATS Tour 95 or 98 - A bit more muted, but thicker beamed towards the tip and pretty beefy feeling. I'd recommend a matching service on the 98, as a fair amount of them are over-spec on swing weight.
- ProKennex Black Ace Pro - Might be too soft and/or unforgiving in the same way as the Ultra Pro, and/or you may not get along with the "maracas" sounds, but a very connected feel, worth a try.
- ProKennex Black Ace 300/315 - The 315 is probably the better choice for less customizing needed. Similar to the Pro in terms of feel and general playability, just more forgiving and powerful.
- ProKennex Ki Q+ Tour Pro 315 - An actual 98 from PK, a bit more firm in flex than the Black Ace models, while not being as firm as the Q+ 5's. Definitely worth a try.
- ProKennex Kinetic Pro 5G - With a bit of tip weight, this could be the one from PK that ticks the most boxes.
- Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 - Foam-filled, so a more dampened, but otherwise direct/unfiltered. Offers 5g and 10g weighted butt caps to help with customizing. The 18x20 is also very open, so it spins/lifts more like a 16m.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - Another foam-filled-but-direct alternative. If you can get over the more rectangular grip shape, the TF40 is one of the better-feeling frames out there.
- Volkl C10 Pro - The most pickup-and-play ready in stock form, but will be noticeably more muted/muffled than your Pro One, and sweet spot is lower. Might work, though.
- Wilson Blade v9 98 16x19, maybe 100 - With handle weight (leather grip, etc), will be more muted in feel, but depending on how you have your Pro One's setup, might work.
- Wilson Pro Staff X - The 100" bigger brother of the 97; compared to the Pro One's 98 mildly-isometric shape and where you're at now, it will likely be a better match for you than the 97.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - Probably some of the best feel of any retail frame made, but will need a good amount of customization, and may still feel too anemic/unforgiving/thin-beamed compared to the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 or 97D - These are borderline, as the feel will be way more muted/muffled. The 97 will need handle + hoop weight; the D won't need anything, but the 18x20 may or may not work for you.

Boutique/Direct-to-Consumer

- Angell TC95/97, maybe 99 - At the 330g/310mm spec, maybe 27.25" length - Foam-filled, so more dampened feel, and a bit more thuddy/clubby than what you're used to with the Pro One, but great frames.
- Angell React Custom MP 99 16x19 - At same spec as the TC - Hollow-core and more aero beam, so faster than the TC's, but not quite as solid or stable in stock form. Could be fixable with light hoop lead.

Left out: Prestige (too different), non-Radical Heads (all too muted), TFights (305 way off, others too open/finicky), RF 01/Pro (too different).

As for strings, this is where you can potentially make up enough ground to make one or more of the above frames playable enough, by using the absolute most crisp, lively, responsive options, namely:
- Poly: silver/alu/grey metallic-composite co-poly's will give the most feel/crispness (examples: Luxilon Alu/Rough, Solinco Tour Bite/Soft, Head Hawk Silver, Kirschbaum Max Power/Rough, MSV Bussard)
- Multi: Tecnifibre Multifeel, Signum Pro Micronite
- Multi/Poly Fusion "Multiester": Tecnifibre Triax, Yonex Rexis Speed, Wilson NXT Control
- Syn Gut: Gosen OG Sheep Micro or AK Pro CX, Prince Syn Gut w/ Duraflex Lightning XX, Yonex Dynawire
- Gut: I know you said it's a no-go, but depending on the setup you choose, gut may last longer and cost less over time than certain synthetics in a hybrid; I find Luxilon to be the most crisp

Hope all of that helps. Any questions, feel free.

Nice looking racquet. I need to find and buy one of those 2001 Fischer Pro Number One racquets. The specs look right in my wheelhouse.

 

[maksp]

i would suggest a few:
Head Prestige Pro 18x20 Auxetic
Wilson Ultra Pro 18x20 (customized to 325 SW)
Angell TC95/97/99. You can configure your desired setup by their website.

How about tc90 feel?

 

[NicoMK]

Nice looking racquet. I need to find and buy one of those 2001 Fischer Pro Number One racquets. The specs look right in my wheelhouse.

There are currently some on the auction site, NOS from 1995-1996. It's the 330 gr version but it's even more stable than the 320 gr version. Very recommendable, I'd say...!

 

[Gee]

Interesting. Was very much under the impression that the UT/UP wasn't foal filled, at least not in the hoop (with such a pedestrian stock swing weight), but with such a thin beam, probably not much foam gets up in there anyways, so very much believable I guess. Will correct my post! Thank you!

Earlier I was wondering this myself and this post confirmed that the Ultra Tour/Pro are fully foam filled like the Pro Staff 6.1.
One of the best feeling racquets I ever hit with. A few years ago I owned 3 UT 18x20s that I unfortunately sold and sometimes I have some regrets about that.

 

[Gee]

How about tc90 feel?

I never hit with the TC90 so I can't tell you my first-hand experiences but I read many good reviews about this one on this forum.

 

[Grafil Injection]

Probably going against the grain here, but I just hit with the RF Pro and it had a classic feel to me. Not early 80s classic, but mid 90s rawness and precision was there, with easy power and spin too. Perhaps it was just the leather, but it felt more solid and precise than the 01. I had a sense that loads of power was possible, had i not been hitting on very bumpy grass. Surprised that some say it is not forgiving, seemed easy to hit with a full bed of element bronze.

 

[Nole Ivanisevic]

Can anyone explain why it is impossible to replicate the (Fischer)Vacuum?

 

[M A]

Head Gravity MP. I really like the semi-dense string pattern and the flex and prefer v2 with auxetic to v1 which I find harsh.

Basically, a classic feeling racquet should have some flex and a string pattern than is on the denser side. Modern racquets have a crisper feel due to added stiffness which enhances power, stability and enlarges the sweetspot. While they play great, I have never been able to adjust to the crisp feel and my wrist and elbow don't appreciate it either.

Thank you very much for the explanation!

Why don't you stick with it then..?

Because at the time there was only one unit in the store and they were supposed to receive more but they ended up not receiving them so I couldn't make the pair and ended up selling them but I regret not having at least this one that I had to play with from time to time!

Same here, except that so far I haven't been able to replace my Fischers, and I tried several times...

It's also why I asked the OP why he doesn't want to stick with his old but not obsolete racket...

@M A : you can find something that you may like just like @Gemini , but you won't find something similar as your Fischer.

If it's to replace it by something with similar specs that you will probably like less, why changing?

Well at least it's the conclusion to which I came for myself. For now...

Because I sold the only one I had!

JI think it might be of help to some to get acquainted with the Fischer Pro Number One in question (I presume it's the 330g version). Since the frame is nearly 25 years old, there is no RacquetFinder profile (as least not an accurate one), so we'll link to the archived TW listing instead:

Fischer Pro Number One Racquets

2001 Fischer Pro Number One
Length: 27" (though it was really 27.3" with a "bubbled" butt cap)
Head Size: 98"
Pattern: 16x20, 8 throat mains
Mold/Beam: Hybrid-Box, constant-taper 25mm-tip to 20mm-neck
Layup: Graphite/Ceramic (though the inclusion of ceramic in this generation is debatable)
Static Weight: 330g unstrung / 346g strung
Swing Weight: ~295 unstrung / ~325 strung
Balance: 31.0cm unstrung (~10pts HL) / 32.0cm strung (~7pts HL)
RA: 65 unstrung

So, we have a 98" player's frame, classic 330g layup, direct/raw/connected feel, mildly-isometric hoop shape, 20-25mm tapered beam with good tip stability, medium-firm flex, good stock plow-through and a nice balance of precision, spin access and forgiveness (for the era, anyways).

As @McLovin said, the primary issue you're going to have is finding something with similar feel, let alone with other similar specs. There really isn't anything out there today that can replicate all of that together in one frame, so if you can source more from The Bay or elsewhere, that would be my first recommendation. If, for whatever reason, you simply must find a currently-made frame that gets as close as possible, here's what I would look at, all of which will need at least some amount of customization (save for perhaps the C10 Pro):

Mainstream:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - If you value the softer/lower-powered qualities of the Pro One, it may work. Will need handle and hoop weight. Feel is good, although a tad more muted, for sure.
- Dunlop CX 200 2024 - The mild-isometric hoop is the closest in shape of anything made, and the feel, while more muted, isn't that far away. It is way lower in spec, though, so will need extensive customization.
- Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 2024 - In several ways, it's the gem of the silo. Will need less customizing than the regular 200, but still might not be forgiving or thick-beamed enough for your liking.
- Head Radical Pro or MP - The Radical mold will flex differently, for sure, and feel won't be as plush nor direct, but still worth considering. Either the Pro with less customizing, or the MP with more.
- Prince ATS Tour 95 or 98 - A bit more muted, but thicker beamed towards the tip and pretty beefy feeling. I'd recommend a matching service on the 98, as a fair amount of them are over-spec on swing weight.
- ProKennex Black Ace Pro - Might be too soft and/or unforgiving in the same way as the Ultra Pro, and/or you may not get along with the "maracas" sounds, but a very connected feel, worth a try.
- ProKennex Black Ace 300/315 - The 315 is probably the better choice for less customizing needed. Similar to the Pro in terms of feel and general playability, just more forgiving and powerful.
- ProKennex Ki Q+ Tour Pro 315 - An actual 98 from PK, a bit more firm in flex than the Black Ace models, while not being as firm as the Q+ 5's. Definitely worth a try.
- ProKennex Kinetic Pro 5G - With a bit of tip weight, this could be the one from PK that ticks the most boxes.
- Solinco WhiteOut 18x20 - Foam-filled, so a more dampened, but otherwise direct/unfiltered. Offers 5g and 10g weighted butt caps to help with customizing. The 18x20 is also very open, so it spins/lifts more like a 16m.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - Another foam-filled-but-direct alternative. If you can get over the more rectangular grip shape, the TF40 is one of the better-feeling frames out there.
- Volkl C10 Pro - The most pickup-and-play ready in stock form, but will be noticeably more muted/muffled than your Pro One, and sweet spot is lower. Might work, though.
- Wilson Blade v9 98 16x19, maybe 100 - With handle weight (leather grip, etc), will be more muted in feel, but depending on how you have your Pro One's setup, might work.
- Wilson Pro Staff X - The 100" bigger brother of the 97; compared to the Pro One's 98 mildly-isometric shape and where you're at now, it will likely be a better match for you than the 97.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - Probably some of the best feel of any retail frame made, but will need a good amount of customization, and may still feel too anemic/unforgiving/thin-beamed compared to the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 or 97D - These are borderline, as the feel will be way more muted/muffled. The 97 will need handle + hoop weight; the D won't need anything, but the 18x20 may or may not work for you.

Boutique/Direct-to-Consumer

- Angell TC95/97, maybe 99 - At the 330g/310mm spec, maybe 27.25" length - Foam-filled, so more dampened feel, and a bit more thuddy/clubby than what you're used to with the Pro One, but great frames.
- Angell React Custom MP 99 16x19 - At same spec as the TC - Hollow-core and more aero beam, so faster than the TC's, but not quite as solid or stable in stock form. Could be fixable with light hoop lead.

Left out: Prestige (too different), non-Radical Heads (all too muted), TFights (305 way off, others too open/finicky), RF 01/Pro (too different).

As for strings, this is where you can potentially make up enough ground to make one or more of the above frames playable enough, by using the absolute most crisp, lively, responsive options, namely:
- Poly: silver/alu/grey metallic-composite co-poly's will give the most feel/crispness (examples: Luxilon Alu/Rough, Solinco Tour Bite/Soft, Head Hawk Silver, Kirschbaum Max Power/Rough, MSV Bussard)
- Multi: Tecnifibre Multifeel, Signum Pro Micronite
- Multi/Poly Fusion "Multiester": Tecnifibre Triax, Yonex Rexis Speed, Wilson NXT Control
- Syn Gut: Gosen OG Sheep Micro or AK Pro CX, Prince Syn Gut w/ Duraflex Lightning XX, Yonex Dynawire
- Gut: I know you said it's a no-go, but depending on the setup you choose, gut may last longer and cost less over time than certain synthetics in a hybrid; I find Luxilon to be the most crisp

Hope all of that helps. Any questions, feel free.

Thank you very much for the more than complete answer! I sent you a message! =)
For the other suggestions thank you very much!

 

[Jimb33]

That’s where I ended up: did two stints w/ VCORE 98s (2nd Gen, then the 2021).

I’ve now fully committed to the Dark Side (literally and figuratively), moving to the Blackout XTD 2 years ago (it’s essentially a PD clone). I looked around and saw I was the only one of my friends who wasn’t using some form of tweener, and they were all much younger than me.

Still have my Black Granites, and will pull them out on occasion just for fun, but they are too low powered for me at this stage in my life.

Even with a gut hybrid? I still switch between the No1 Pro and a Dr 98- not identical, but some similarities in the flexy throat.

 

[Trip]

@Nole Ivanisevic - It's not impossible to replicate the Fischer Vacuum, it's just that most OEMs today don't include the process, probably due to cost and/or the retooling/upgrading necessary. The vacuum technology is the process of molding/baking the layup in a vacuum (whereby air is continuously being sucked out of the mold chamber through strategically-placed holes in the side of the mold), which removes as many air bubbles from the layup of the graphite fibers, and helps to create the most uniform, densely-packed hairpin that is as free of voids and imperfections as possible. The benefits of vacuum-molding are numerous, but mainly that you are able to achieve tighter spec-adherence (enabling Fischer to offer their "Zero Tolerance" concept in a sustainable way), also a more solid, connected feel and a hairpin with longer-lasting structural integrity.

In chatting with @M A by private message, here are some updates that are pivotal:
- Mainly, the Pro One he has is actually the 320g model, 306mm unstrung balance (super head-light), with lighter SW and lower 60-ish RA strung
- Wants to lighten the spec to 305-310g static at the most, and no more than low-mid 320's strung SW
- Retain as much of the previous feel, control and especially dwell time, as possible
- Located in Brazil, so access to all but the most mainstream products can be challenging
- Apparently, natural gut is around $80 USD by the time he would get it (local or shipped), which rules it out of consideration

Here's the frame we're actually looking at (mid-2000's version, black lower frame, red upper frame):

That stock strung swing weight from TW seems a little low, but they may have measured it with non-poly strings and an added swing weight of only 20-25 points for strings. Regardless, I think for unstrung swing weight, we want something <=290 stock.

All of the latest above considered (softer flexing 60-ish RA, likes dwell time, wants 323 or lower strung SW, nor more than 310g stock static), here's my updated list of suggestions:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - This now becomes a front-runner. Much easier-playing than more classic 97's (plays more like a 98). The main issue will be Babolat's poor quality-control. You really need to use a matching service from your local shop, or online, to ensure you get a sample in the upper-280's to 290-ish unstrung SW. That will ensure enough stability in stock form (or close to it), while still having room for string variety and customization if needed.
- Dunlop CX 200 - Most identical hoop shape and pattern/cell sizing, but a bit on the firm side and they are coming in super under-spec, so will require extensive customization. That may or may not be your thing.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - I know it's 315g and the flex might be a tad firm, but swing weight is low(ish), which is nice because all that's needed may be just a smidgeon of lead at 12, or 10 & 2, and you'd good. If you don't mind the grip shape, definitely worth a try.
- Tecnifibre TF40 305 16x19 - This is another approach, probably involving adding handle weight, which is harder with no butt cap (Tecnifibres don't have them), so would involve lead tape under the base grip, or a heavier synthetic (like a Gamma Hi-Tech) or a leather grip. Still, potentially worth it if you like less static weight and don't mind the head-heavier balance point.
- Prince ATS Tour 98, only via a matching service for under spec samples - Add a leather grip, and this thing will be the most playable in otherwise-stock form.
- Prince ATS Tour 100P - A 100, yes, but behaves more like a 98, and noticeably quicker/easier to wield than the 98. It won't flex like what you're used to (firmer neck and lower hoop), but the 18x20, while 18 mains, will have very uniform cell sizing like the Pro One, and it lifts and spins more like a 16-main. A beautifully-balanced frame. Like a Speed Pro, but a better-designed beam and way more all-court, OHBH-capable.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - This will likely be the best feeling of anything on the list, but the least forgiving and the lowest power-per-unit-spec, and at <323 swing weight with a softer string bed, might not give you as heavy a ball as you're used to with the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 - This will likely be even slightly easier to play with than the Strike 97, but the feel will be the most muted/muffled. You'd have to use the most crisp string combo possible, and even then, it may still not offer enough feel.

If it is feel you care about most, before anything else, I would just say, go Ultra Pro or TF40. They're both foam-filled, so they won't feel quite like the Pro One, but they will offer very direct feel (albeit slightly dampened from the foam). For a non-foam-filled, hollow-core option, I would lean towards the Strike 97. All three of those will require at least light customization. For something that's much more ready to play in stock form and/or for more power, I'd go ATS Tour 98, but as I said, only via a matching service of some kind, so you can be assured you get one that's as under-spec as possible on swing weight. Otherwise, I'd avoid. And if you do have access to Prince, you might give the ATS Tour 100P a try, just to see if it's more the uniform open cells and accommodating sweet spot that you like, and less so an adherence to other specs.

As for strings, especially for the 97's, if played at only 323-ish stock swing weight, you're going to need/want a bouncier, livelier, higher-power string bed, so I would go with at least a non-poly/poly hybrid (with the non-poly in the mains) otherwise full-bed non-poly. And the most crisp combo you can come up with (example: Multifeel Black or Micronite / Co-Focus Silver, Rexis Speed / Multifeel Black).

Hope that helps again. Any questions, feel free.

 

[Grafil Injection]

Can anyone explain why it is impossible to replicate the (Fischer)Vacuum?

There's nothing technical to stop someone using vacuum moulding processes again, which typically operate at lower temperature than oven curing. However, I suspect that vacuum chambers are not very big, so you can't cure dozens at a time like you can with an oven, so the economics is probably the issue.

 

[Trip]

There's nothing technical to stop someone using vacuum moulding processes again, which typically operate at lower temperature than oven curing. However, I suspect that vacuum chambers are not very big, so you can't cure dozens at a time like you can with an oven, so the economics is probably the issue.

That's a very good point. Volume and scalability may be more the reasons why it isn't being done. It certainly can be done. But will it be... I would say, doubtful, unless someone comes up with a way to eliminate the production bottleneck, if that is, indeed, the issue.

 

[maksp]

That's a very good point. Volume and scalability may be more the reasons why it isn't being done. It certainly can be done. But will it be... I would say, doubtful, unless someone comes up with a way to eliminate the production bottleneck, if that is, indeed, the issue.

Which Fischer is best? The vacuum? I found a 90 in blue color ...says vacuum technic on it and classic pro...306+- 5mm
Also found pro number one 260 gram 100 inch

 

[mhkeuns]

Dunlop CX200 Tour 18x20 has that classic feel and control.

 

[Trip]

Dunlop CX200 Tour 18x20 has that classic feel and control.

Yes it does, but considering what the OP is looking for, it's probably a bit too firm, more dense a pattern than he needs or is used to, and would need to be brought up to a higher spec than what he wants to wield.

Still a good stick, just not sure it's the right call here.

 

[Grafil Injection]

That's a very good point. Volume and scalability may be more the reasons why it isn't being done. It certainly can be done. But will it be... I would say, doubtful, unless someone comes up with a way to eliminate the production bottleneck, if that is, indeed, the issue.

You would have to think that the current racket baking process is done on a similar scale to making digestive biscuits nowadays, in a rolling oven, rather than one chap placing a single mould at a time in a small oven, as was probably needed for vacuumed rackets.

 

[M A]

@Nole Ivanisevic - It's not impossible to replicate the Fischer Vacuum, it's just that most OEMs today don't include the process, probably due to cost and/or the retooling/upgrading necessary. The vacuum technology is the process of molding/baking the layup in a vacuum (whereby air is continuously being sucked out of the mold chamber through strategically-placed holes in the side of the mold), which removes as many air bubbles from the layup of the graphite fibers, and helps to create the most uniform, densely-packed hairpin that is as free of voids and imperfections as possible. The benefits of vacuum-molding are numerous, but mainly that you are able to achieve tighter spec-adherence (enabling Fischer to offer their "Zero Tolerance" concept in a sustainable way), also a more solid, connected feel and a hairpin with longer-lasting structural integrity.

In chatting with @M A by private message, here are some updates that are pivotal:
- Mainly, the Pro One he has is actually the 320g model, 306mm unstrung balance (super head-light), with lighter SW and lower 60-ish RA strung
- Wants to lighten the spec to 305-310g static at the most, and no more than low-mid 320's strung SW
- Retain as much of the previous feel, control and especially dwell time, as possible
- Located in Brazil, so access to all but the most mainstream products can be challenging
- Apparently, natural gut is around $80 USD by the time he would get it (local or shipped), which rules it out of consideration

Here's the frame we're actually looking at (mid-2000's version, black lower frame, red upper frame):

That stock strung swing weight from TW seems a little low, but they may have measured it with non-poly strings and an added swing weight of only 20-25 points for strings. Regardless, I think for unstrung swing weight, we want something <=290 stock.

All of the latest above considered (softer flexing 60-ish RA, likes dwell time, wants 323 or lower strung SW, nor more than 310g stock static), here's my updated list of suggestions:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - This now becomes a front-runner. Much easier-playing than more classic 97's (plays more like a 98). The main issue will be Babolat's poor quality-control. You really need to use a matching service from your local shop, or online, to ensure you get a sample in the upper-280's to 290-ish unstrung SW. That will ensure enough stability in stock form (or close to it), while still having room for string variety and customization if needed.
- Dunlop CX 200 - Most identical hoop shape and pattern/cell sizing, but a bit on the firm side and they are coming in super under-spec, so will require extensive customization. That may or may not be your thing.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - I know it's 315g and the flex might be a tad firm, but swing weight is low(ish), but that's nice because all that's needed may be just a smidgeon of lead at 12, or 10 & 2, and you'd good. If you don't mind the grip shape, definitely worth a try.
- Tecnifibre TF40 305 16x19 - This is another approach, probably involving adding handle weight, which is harder with no butt cap (Tecnifibres don't have them), so would involve lead tape under the base grip, or a heavier synthetic (like a Gamma Hi-Tech) or a leather grip. Still, potentially worth it if you like less static weight and don't mind the head-heavier balance point.
- Prince ATS Tour 98, only via a matching service for under spec samples - Add a leather grip, and this thing will be the most playable in otherwise-stock form.
- Prince ATS Tour 100P - A 100, yes, but behaves more like a 98, and noticeably quicker/easier to wield than the 98. It won't flex like what you're used to (firmer neck and lower hoop), but the 18x20, while 18 mains, will have very uniform cell sizing like the Pro One, and it lifts and spins more like a 16-main. A beautifully-balanced frame. Like a Speed Pro, but a better-designed beam and way more all-court, OHBH-capable.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - This will likely be the best feeling of anything on the list, but the least forgiving and the lowest power-per-unit-spec, and at <323 swing weight with a softer string bed, might not give you as heavy a ball as you're used to with the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 - This will likely be even slightly easier to play with than the Strike 97, but the feel will be the most muted/muffled. You'd have to use the most crisp string combo possible, and even then, it may still not even enough.

If it is feel you care about most, before anything else, I would just say, go Ultra Pro or TF40. They're both foam-filled, so they won't feel quite like the Pro One, but they will offer very direct feel (albeit slightly dampened from the foam). For a non-foam-filled, hollow-core option, I would lean towards the Strike 97. All three of those will require at least light customization. For something that's much more ready to play in stock form and/or for more power, I'd go ATS Tour 98, but as I said, only via a matching service of some kind, so you can be assured you get one that's as under-spec as possible on swing weight. Otherwise, I'd avoid. And if you do have access to Prince, you might give the ATS Tour 100P a try, just to see if it's more the uniform open cells and accommodating sweet spot that you like, and less so an adherence to other specs.

As for strings, especially for the 97's, if played at only 323-ish stock swing weight, you're going to need/want a bouncier, livelier, higher-power string bed, so I would go with at least a non-poly/poly hybrid (with the non-poly in the mains) otherwise full-bed non-poly. And the most crisp combo you can come up with (example: Multifeel Black or Micronite / Co-Focus Silver, Rexis Speed / Multifeel Black).

Hope that helps again. Any questions, feel free.

First of all, thank you again for taking the time to help! Could you describe the difference in feel between the Pure Strike 97 and the TF40? Of the rackets mentioned, I had the Percept 97, but as you said, it is really super muted. I currently have the Gravity MP, which came overspec at 299 grams without strings and I put 8 grams of lead tape on the handle. I first strung it with the Lynx Tour 1.25 at 48 pounds and now it is with the Poly Tour Strike 1.20 at 50 pounds. I preferred the Lynx Tour but I didn't like either of them very much. Do you think that for the feeling I want, non-poly/poly or full non-poly is better? Another question: what thickness would you recommend? I hit more flat and most poly strings work for me at 48 pounds. For the multi, what would be the tension that you would recommend? Thank you very much again!

 

[Trip]

@M A - Very welcome again. I haven't played the Strike 97, but was on the playtest and played some time with the previous Strike VS. For as much as I've read, it's changed very little in Strike 97 form, albeit the NF2 flax added to the layup has apparently made it a little less lively, maybe a tad less crisp, but not sure. As for the TF40, it's been a long time since I demo'd one (since the first version), but the TF40 has definitely got a more uniformly firm feel to it. Not a lot more firm, but a bit more so, and a tad more thuddy/dampened, whereas the Strike is more flexy in the neck, and a bit more reverberatory, in the way that hollow-core sticks will be versus something foam-filled. For as much as I know of the Vacuum Pro One, the flex profile and feel will probably be a bit closer to the Strike 97 than the TF40. Hope that helps.

For best feel on an Auxetic Gravity MP, considering you've been playing full-bed poly, I'd probably try a hybrid first, before going full non-poly. I'd put a crisp multi in the mains, and a crisp poly in the crosses, and and string it high enough to create similar string bed firmness. I would try something like Tecnifibre Multifeel Black 1.30 mains / Head Hawk 1.25 Silver crosses, at 52/49, and adjust from there.

 

[M A]

@M A - Very welcome again. I haven't played the Strike 97, but was on the playtest and played some time with the previous Strike VS. For as much as I've read, it's changed very little in Strike 97 form, albeit the NF2 flax added to the layup has apparently made it a little less lively, maybe a tad less crisp, but not sure. As for the TF40, it's been a long time since I demo'd one (since the first version), but the TF40 has definitely got a more uniformly firm feel to it. Not a lot more firm, but a bit more so, and a tad more thuddy/dampened, whereas the Strike is more flexy in the neck, and a bit more reverberatory, in the way that hollow-core sticks will be versus something foam-filled. For as much as I know of the Vacuum Pro One, the flex profile and feel will probably be a bit closer to the Strike 97 than the TF40. Hope that helps.

For best feel on an Auxetic Gravity MP, considering you've been playing full-bed poly, I'd probably try a hybrid first, before going full non-poly. I'd put a crisp multi in the mains, and a crisp poly in the crosses, and and string it high enough to create similar string bed firmness. I would try something like Tecnifibre Multifeel Black 1.30 mains / Head Hawk 1.25 Silver crosses, at 52/49, and adjust from there.

Helps a lot, my friend, i will try to test the Pure Strike 97! First I will test this non-poly(mains)-poly(crosses) recommendation with exactly these strings and tensions in the gravity mp! Thanks again for all your time! =)

 

[M A]

@Nole Ivanisevic - It's not impossible to replicate the Fischer Vacuum, it's just that most OEMs today don't include the process, probably due to cost and/or the retooling/upgrading necessary. The vacuum technology is the process of molding/baking the layup in a vacuum (whereby air is continuously being sucked out of the mold chamber through strategically-placed holes in the side of the mold), which removes as many air bubbles from the layup of the graphite fibers, and helps to create the most uniform, densely-packed hairpin that is as free of voids and imperfections as possible. The benefits of vacuum-molding are numerous, but mainly that you are able to achieve tighter spec-adherence (enabling Fischer to offer their "Zero Tolerance" concept in a sustainable way), also a more solid, connected feel and a hairpin with longer-lasting structural integrity.

In chatting with @M A by private message, here are some updates that are pivotal:
- Mainly, the Pro One he has is actually the 320g model, 306mm unstrung balance (super head-light), with lighter SW and lower 60-ish RA strung
- Wants to lighten the spec to 305-310g static at the most, and no more than low-mid 320's strung SW
- Retain as much of the previous feel, control and especially dwell time, as possible
- Located in Brazil, so access to all but the most mainstream products can be challenging
- Apparently, natural gut is around $80 USD by the time he would get it (local or shipped), which rules it out of consideration

Here's the frame we're actually looking at (mid-2000's version, black lower frame, red upper frame):

That stock strung swing weight from TW seems a little low, but they may have measured it with non-poly strings and an added swing weight of only 20-25 points for strings. Regardless, I think for unstrung swing weight, we want something <=290 stock.

All of the latest above considered (softer flexing 60-ish RA, likes dwell time, wants 323 or lower strung SW, nor more than 310g stock static), here's my updated list of suggestions:

- Babolat Pure Strike 97 - This now becomes a front-runner. Much easier-playing than more classic 97's (plays more like a 98). The main issue will be Babolat's poor quality-control. You really need to use a matching service from your local shop, or online, to ensure you get a sample in the upper-280's to 290-ish unstrung SW. That will ensure enough stability in stock form (or close to it), while still having room for string variety and customization if needed.
- Dunlop CX 200 - Most identical hoop shape and pattern/cell sizing, but a bit on the firm side and they are coming in super under-spec, so will require extensive customization. That may or may not be your thing.
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 - I know it's 315g and the flex might be a tad firm, but swing weight is low(ish), but that's nice because all that's needed may be just a smidgeon of lead at 12, or 10 & 2, and you'd good. If you don't mind the grip shape, definitely worth a try.
- Tecnifibre TF40 305 16x19 - This is another approach, probably involving adding handle weight, which is harder with no butt cap (Tecnifibres don't have them), so would involve lead tape under the base grip, or a heavier synthetic (like a Gamma Hi-Tech) or a leather grip. Still, potentially worth it if you like less static weight and don't mind the head-heavier balance point.
- Prince ATS Tour 98, only via a matching service for under spec samples - Add a leather grip, and this thing will be the most playable in otherwise-stock form.
- Prince ATS Tour 100P - A 100, yes, but behaves more like a 98, and noticeably quicker/easier to wield than the 98. It won't flex like what you're used to (firmer neck and lower hoop), but the 18x20, while 18 mains, will have very uniform cell sizing like the Pro One, and it lifts and spins more like a 16-main. A beautifully-balanced frame. Like a Speed Pro, but a better-designed beam and way more all-court, OHBH-capable.
- Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19 - This will likely be the best feeling of anything on the list, but the least forgiving and the lowest power-per-unit-spec, and at <323 swing weight with a softer string bed, might not give you as heavy a ball as you're used to with the Pro One.
- Yonex Percept 97 - This will likely be even slightly easier to play with than the Strike 97, but the feel will be the most muted/muffled. You'd have to use the most crisp string combo possible, and even then, it may still not even enough.

If it is feel you care about most, before anything else, I would just say, go Ultra Pro or TF40. They're both foam-filled, so they won't feel quite like the Pro One, but they will offer very direct feel (albeit slightly dampened from the foam). For a non-foam-filled, hollow-core option, I would lean towards the Strike 97. All three of those will require at least light customization. For something that's much more ready to play in stock form and/or for more power, I'd go ATS Tour 98, but as I said, only via a matching service of some kind, so you can be assured you get one that's as under-spec as possible on swing weight. Otherwise, I'd avoid. And if you do have access to Prince, you might give the ATS Tour 100P a try, just to see if it's more the uniform open cells and accommodating sweet spot that you like, and less so an adherence to other specs.

As for strings, especially for the 97's, if played at only 323-ish stock swing weight, you're going to need/want a bouncier, livelier, higher-power string bed, so I would go with at least a non-poly/poly hybrid (with the non-poly in the mains) otherwise full-bed non-poly. And the most crisp combo you can come up with (example: Multifeel Black or Micronite / Co-Focus Silver, Rexis Speed / Multifeel Black).

Hope that helps again. Any questions, feel free.

The only strings available here in Brazil are the multifeel black and the rexis speed (I believe it is in black that you suggest, right). The other gray poly strings are not available here.

 

[Trip]

Helps a lot, my friend, i will try to test the Pure Strike 97! First I will test this non-poly(mains)-poly(crosses) recommendation with exactly these strings and tensions in the gravity mp! Thanks again for all your time! =)

The only strings available here in Brazil are the multifeel black and the rexis speed (I believe it is in black that you suggest, right). The other gray poly strings are not available here.

Sounds like a plan re- the Strike 97. If you're able to restring the demo, or if you just buy your own straight away, I would start with a bit bouncier, higher-power string bed straight away, like Rexis Speed 1.25 / Multifeel Black 1.25, tensioned around 52/50, and modify from there.

As for poly cross substitute, any good slick, crisp option will suffice, such as Luxilon Alu Power / Rough, Kirschbaum Max Power / Rough, even Babolat RPM Blast Rough if need be.

 

[M A]

@M A - Very welcome again. I haven't played the Strike 97, but was on the playtest and played some time with the previous Strike VS. For as much as I've read, it's changed very little in Strike 97 form, albeit the NF2 flax added to the layup has apparently made it a little less lively, maybe a tad less crisp, but not sure. As for the TF40, it's been a long time since I demo'd one (since the first version), but the TF40 has definitely got a more uniformly firm feel to it. Not a lot more firm, but a bit more so, and a tad more thuddy/dampened, whereas the Strike is more flexy in the neck, and a bit more reverberatory, in the way that hollow-core sticks will be versus something foam-filled. For as much as I know of the Vacuum Pro One, the flex profile and feel will probably be a bit closer to the Strike 97 than the TF40. Hope that helps.

For best feel on an Auxetic Gravity MP, considering you've been playing full-bed poly, I'd probably try a hybrid first, before going full non-poly. I'd put a crisp multi in the mains, and a crisp poly in the crosses, and and string it high enough to create similar string bed firmness. I would try something like Tecnifibre Multifeel Black 1.30 mains / Head Hawk 1.25 Silver crosses, at 52/49, and adjust from there.

Hawk only in white!

 

[PistolPete23]

For that classic feel, you can't beat the Prestige Classic 2.0. I currently string it with a 19 gauge poly (Volkl Cyclone 19) at 48#. It plays like a larger head size, firm response off the string bed, but still very comfortably plush. It's pretty unique.

I'm a little surprised nobody has suggested the Volkl C10 Pro.

 

[M A]

Sounds like a plan re- the Strike 97. If you're able to restring the demo, or if you just buy your own straight away, I would start with a bit bouncier, higher-power string bed straight away, like Rexis Speed 1.25 / Multifeel Black 1.25, tensioned around 52/50, and modify from there.

As for poly cross substitute, any good slick, crisp option will suffice, such as Luxilon Alu Power / Rough, Kirschbaum Max Power / Rough, even Babolat RPM Blast Rough if need be.

Rexis Speed black 1.25 52 in the mains, multifeel black 1.25 50 in the crosses for the Pure Strike 97 and multifeel black 1.30 52 in the mains, tourna big hitter silver 7 tour 49 in the crosses for the gravity mp!

 

[Trip]

Prestige Classic 2.0

Beautiful heritage throwback, but too heavy, small-headed, dense and unforgiving for what @M A wants now.

I'm a little surprised nobody has suggested the Volkl C10 Pro.

I did, in my first reply, but the OP wants to reduce static weight to 310g, 315 at the most.

 

[Trip]

Hawk only in white!

That's ok. White is just as crisp as Silver, perhaps even a bit more so. Apologies for not including it an option earlier. So go ahead with that one for the Gravity MP!

Rexis Speed 1.25 black 52 in the mains, right?

Correct!