Hi all, I have currently been stringing for the past 4 years using my Pro's Pro XP plus machine. I have got on fine with this machine learning a lot about stringing techniques etc. Recently my workload has been increasing. I used to average maybe 1 or 2 rackets a week for players at my clubs but recently the demand is increasing to between 5/10 rackets per week. I find that the Pro's Pro XP plus isn't particularly efficient and the clamps and mounting system aren't as sleek and functional as they could be. I would like to upgrade for several reasons listed below: More efficient stringing meaning I can string rackets quicker. More accurate stringing consistency with an electronic machine. Easier to use machine making it less fiddly and more user friendly. Having looked around there are lots of options and I don't really know what machines are good and what aren't so good. I was contemplating going for the Yonex ST7000 but there were some negative posts on here about this machine. I don't want to spend a crazy amount of money with the likes of the Yonex ES5 but I also don't want to go too cheap and wish I had paid a bit more a few months down the line. Any advice on machines which will match the 3 main requirements would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Basically, I see two options. 1) You go with a high quality table top machine and add a WISE plus a stand. Some examples: https://www.tennisman.de/Weiteres/B...Besaitungsmaschine-Gamma-X-ST-electronic.html https://www.tennisman.de/Weiteres/B...SC-electronic-Suspension-Mounting-System.html https://www.tennisman.de/Weiteres/B...e-SUPERSTRINGER-S90-Badminton-electronic.html https://www.tennisman.de/Weiteres/B...-T70-electronic-BE-mit-premium-Standfuss.html 2) You go all the way and decide for a Yonex ES5 or for example an Alpha Ghost 2 (my dream machine...*drool*...): http://alphatennis.webstarts.com/machine_ghost.html If I had to do 5-10 rackets per week, I wouldn't think too much and go for the Alpha Ghost. The investment will be returned within 6-9 months at this workload and you will have a top end machine.
I don't do many rackets but enjoy good quality equipment, so have had a few different machines since I started out! I now have a Gamma 8900 ELS and have to say it's the best machine I've used. I did look at the Alpha Ghost but couldn't find a UK supplier, otherwise it would've been a possible option. Pros of the 8900: Quality - build quality, clamps, everything is solidly built and works well. Semi-auto clamps lock securely and quickly Gamma mounting system is really fast, using just 3 knobs to mount a racket - this also results in less sticky-out bits for string to get caught on Optimised for badminton, unlike some of the larger machines that are more suited to tennis (fixed towers). Good UI with multiple memory settings, with options for tension (mains and cross separate), pulling speed, pre-stretch & knot tension Electronic string measuring - pretty accurate from my testing Easy to calibrate Cons Expensive! However if you are doing those volumes you will make your money back quickly. Turntable lock knob is not optimally positioned, it's easy to get string caught on it. I honestly couldn't think of another machine I'd want to buy. Sure I'd take a Protech 8 if you gave me one, but it's certainly not 2-3 times better than the Gamma!
