Hi there! I've been using my Cab20 for EVER, i mean 10+ years Now i admit that I have not consistantly played in those 10 years I think my skill level is intermediate, (just have to get back into shape ) Anywho, I have a friend in HK right now, and I'm contemplating between the Armortech 800 (OF) or the Nanospeed 8000. I've tried hte AT800(OF) and liked it a lot more than my Cab 20. Lighter, seems to be more powerful during smashing (could be my aging strings on my Cab20 ..) I did not have a chance to try out the (DE) or the NS8000 yet, but I've tried the AT500, but prefer the AT800(OF). Now i'm pretty new to all these technical stuff merits, but it seems that the NS8000 is a tecnical generation ahead of the AT800? The price diff is only $40Cdn, and luckily I can afford that difference. So .. have anyone used both AT800(OF) and NS8000? can someone give me the diff between them? I do like the lighter/more control aspect of NS8000 (from reading the forums), but guess I've always been using a head heavy racket (Cab20). Is NS8000 actually considered Head-Light? or "Balanced"? Thank you in advance for all your help! -Kor
NS7k or 8k are actually head light, I would not suggest you to get NS as its super light, you stated you use Cab20 for more than 10 years. Cab20 is belong to heavy head type. AT head balance should suit you better in this case. Yes NS is more newer than AT
You live in the GTA so, perhaps you should make the effort to see if anyone at the local clubs (which are many!) have the NS8000 and see if you can try it out for 5-10minutes. It's better basing your decision on physical feel rather than.. internet reading. Personally, if you like offense, I'd recommend the NS 8000. According to the Yonex Selection Chart: http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=8579&stc=1 Where: Left = Durability Right = Bounce Top = Offense/Smashing Bottom = Control/Net Play The NS 8000 is at the top of the charts in terms of offense.
Right on the point, the string. My suggestion is to re-string the cab20, and u might be very much amazed how much the upgrade can do wonder for u. Also, there's always cab30ms coming up.
To be honest, I'm a big fan of the NS8k coz it's super. But for your liking, for a person that would loves Cab 20 (Heavy category). I suggest the AT-800 (OF). But if you want a control, stable and controled power kinda racket, I would just suggest the NS8k. Only reason why I wouldn't suggest the NS8k is coz u've lived with the Cab 20 and the closer comparison is the AT-800 (OF). <-------------------> <-------> Nanospeed 8000---------------------Cab 20--------AT-800 (OF) Seems like it's leaning more towards the AT side from the way you describe your undivided love for the Cab 20. But NS8k is one racket you'll instantly fall in love with. Alot of ppl can confirm that. Just take a look at the reviews. And I'm one of them that fell in love with it on my first 'singles high serve' I made with it. The feel is magnificent! Cheers