I recently got a used k90 from the bay. About six months ago I also got a used ncode 90. But for the last year and a half, I'd been playing and practicing on a (new preserved) kps 88. I still stick with the kps88 as I'm used to it now, and need to modify the k90 to a smaller grip if I'm going to consider using it as a "part-time" alternative. My n90 is more headlight than my kps88, but the k90 is lighter overall than both.
imo, the k90 has that sublime material feel that others mentioned, as it swings. I feel the kps88 is Sampras' version of a "heavier" k90 with more weight at the pws and the hoop, also filling out the "web" edges of the top of the throat. Interestingly the n90 for me, is the clunkier version and also its string pattern is 5 holes on the pws and not 4 as it is on the k90, kps88, and the (prostock) pst90hc. Where others have stated that it's because the 4 holes pws versions are, or closer to the prostock forms that Fed used and the retail ncode90 deviated the most from the (prostock) pst90hc, k90, and imo, the kps88. Here's a post with pics comparing the kps88 to the (retail) ncode90. (
post link)
There also seems to be the same issue similar to the retail n90 , on observing pics, of the retail pst90 hc ( a bunch of those retail hps 90's on the bay, some of them going for over $500), vs. Fed's presumably prostock version. Comparing a pic of a current bay offer of the retail hps90 vs. Fed's racquet in wimbledon 2003 : (
original getty image pic here)
Comparing a retail ncode 90 in new condition on offer on the bay currently for $1500(!), and Fed's stock ncode 90 in 2006. (
original getty image here)
Same 4 grommets on his stock vs. the 5 grommets on the retail n90 version.
Fed's versions of the hps90 & n90 also has the shorter handle grip section. So the more Fed-stock similar retail sold versions of the k90 and kps88 (and maybe the later 90s, blx, etc.) with the 4 grommets on PWS and shorter grip handle sections are, or are closer presumably, to the Fed stock versions of his 90's. So, probably a good idea to keep the differences in mind on the bay, as a bunch of those retail versions are selling for high, but there also seems to be a few prostock hps90's (with the 4 grommets on pws instead of 5) on offer there too at the moment.
