After researching the Stringing forum, it seems the best combination to start is a WISE 2086 Head [$570] and a Pro's Pro XP Plus Machine [$425] (I like that some models are specifically made for badminton). However, the only place I can find to buy Pro's Pro is Racquet Depot UK - shipping alone is over 200 dollars! Are there other sites you guys can recommend to buy stringing equipment? Unfortunately I am in the north-east coast and not California but hoping to still find a good deal. If there is a model that would function as well as a Pro's Pro, please mention that as well. Thanks in advance!
W&D strings will probably be cheaper than Racquet Depot, but they're still in the UK so shipping will still be steep.
Checked out W&D: Pro's Pro Plus - £299.00 = $480 2086 Electronic Head - £355.00 = $570 So their prices are comparable and they don't calculate shipping beforehand...I'll shoot them an e-mail but definitely still hoping for a US-based site!
You need to contact Arfain, they are Pro's Pro. Only their website is being renewed so can't check the price but for sure it will be cheaper than any UK store. Also why don't you get the WISE from the US where they come from ... it's $495 there & shipping is for free [http://tennishead.com/sales-2/]. edit: website is working already . XP Plus pre-tax is 250 euro so about $325USD excl. shipping.
Thanks demolidor for your response. Will order a WISE from Tennishead as soon as I get home. As for the Pro's Pro, are you referring to http://www.arfaian.com? At first I was worried as it was all in Deutsch (German?) but saw there is an English version. Looking forward to starting the stringing journey!
Knew something was off when I posted it but didn't see what exactly . Now I see I forgot an "a": arfaian indeed .
Also, would the Eagnas Easy-3 work with the Wise Head? I don't necessarily need to get a full machine with stand (could be unnecessarily bulky / heavy when shipping). Any other recommended models that would work well with the Wise? Tabletop models are fine.