Hi guys, I'm on the verge of buying my 1st stringing machine just for fun as inspired by this box. Although the Klipper M140 is very attractive in price, its 2 pt mounting is a no-go for me since all my rackets' tension is at least 28 lb. Normally, I need restringing every 2-3 weeks and occasionally, I replace string for testing and trial. I've read through most topics concerning stringing machines, from drop weight to crank, 2-point vs 6-point mounting, etc and narrowed down to 3 machines: Challenger 1, ST-250 and Alpha Shuttle Express. I'm leaning towards more the drop weight one, i.e. Challenger 1 but the other 2 do not seem to be a bad choice either (one adapted by Yonex and one greatly reviewed by Kwun). Your opinions are much appreciated.
Yeah, my bad. Or should I say "adapted from YY" . Anyway, my friend recommended me to look at Gamma as well. Any good machines? At least they are made in USA, right?
Actually, Eagnas are all made in Taiwan. I know for fact that both Alpha and Gamma tension head is also made in Taiwan. If money is an issue, get Alpha pioneer DC plus or Gamma X6 or Gamma Progression II 602. Why? I prefer drop weight for the constant pull. In addition, all 3 machine can be converted with Wise tension head in the future. I like the gamma machine better because the do not have fix clamps so they have more room for fly clamps and hand to work on.
Many thanks, silentheart. I was thinking about the Wise tension head upgradability too. I guess I'll just go for the Progression II 602, can be even bought used off ebay. Great!
I have GAMMA X-6FC machine which is now modified with Wise Head, Gamma badminton head and throat supports and Michal's side supports. Advantage of buying them directly (from ATS Sports for example) is that they can swap default tennis fixed clamps for badminton clamps and save you $150. I like this setup a lot and I can't understand how did I string without fixed clamps before using Eagnas ST-250. So happy I have upgraded!
picture please ... especially with the Michal side-support and Wise2086. do you still have the 360 degree rotation when using Wise2086 ? I lost the 360 degree rotation when I modified my AEF Flyer-IV with Wise2086. thanks.
no I don't have 360 degrees and I don't particularly miss it. I string at my leisure mostly for myself, so I can live with less than optimal features
I thought the wise tension head mod could only be applied to crank style machines since they have that long bar thingy for you to attach it on?
o wow thanks for sharing! also, is your suggestion of Alpha pioneer DC plus/Gamma X6/Gamma Progression II 602 still the same? i take it there won't be 360 degrees right :/?
1) Yes, imho, Alpha pioneer DC plus>Gamma X6>Gamma Progression II 602. 2) I am almost 90% sure that there will be no 360 degree for all 3 machine. But I can be wrong since I am gauging base on the picture
The general rule of thumb is stay away from Eagnas. Then, as long as the machine suits your needs, you should be fine. The Alpha Pionneer SC Plus, Gamma X6 and Progression II 602 all have 360 degrees rotation, but you will lose it if you use the wise tension head.
Hi Yan, All 3 of the machines are drop weight machine. I have still yet to see a drop weight machine can do 360.
Their specs mention 360 degrees rotations Although Eagnas mentionned that for their ST-250 and it wasn't the case hehe. I have a Progression ST II, and assuming the 602 is just the same with drop weight and the gripper at the same height, it should be 360 degrees.
You could always buy from W&D. Shipping will be expensive, but bearable. http://www.watdon.co.uk/wd-strings/acatalog/Manual_Stringing_Machines.html Shipping cost to Canada is GBP 52, so it should be the same for USA. Have them mark your package as low value gift, or lower value good, and if they agree you should pay about 20$ for custom fees. Total of ~$343.97 USD, which is more than acceptable I think. This is all for the Pro's Pro Shuttle Express (almost the same as Alpha's). They may be out of stock of the Shuttle Express however, and if it's the case, they should receive more only in May. Shipping for Drop Weight machines is GBP 75.00, and the Pilot is GBP 110.00.
Yeah, obviously you need to have the weight down. This probably offsets the time saved from having 360 degrees rotation though lol.