Next on my MSV playtest is MSV Hepta Twist; this string has been around for several years and is used by many MSV’s MSV-sponsored players.
MSV Hepta Twist features a unique twisting pattern that aids in generating spin on the ball, giving players better control over their shots and enabling them to execute precise spins and slices.
It differs from most spin-focused shaped polys as it’s twisted in a hot thermo process for added spin. Its design promotes consistent performance, allowing players to maintain their preferred playing style over extended periods.
The string’s characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of players, from higher recreational to competitive, seeking a reliable and versatile string option.
This playtest and review examines my experiences, observations, and in-depth analysis of MSV Hepta Twist. Let’s go.
MSV Hepta Twist Specification
String Used For This Review
Composition: Monofilament, based on co-polyester.
Gauge: I used 1.25mm. It is also available in 115, 120 and 130mm
Shape: Heptagonal, Twisted.
Colour: Anthracite. It is also available in Red and White.
Description: Maximum Spin + Power
Tension: Depending on the player’s preferences and playing style, it can be strung at a wide range of tensions. The recommended tension range for MSV Hepta Twist is between 20 and 24 kg.
Racket Setup For Testing
Strung at 22 kg with four knots.
Frame: VCORE SV 100 (2017), 300g unstrung, 318 full kit, string pattern 16×19, length 687 mm, balance 320 mm.
Grip Size #2
Head size 100 inches.
Previous string on the frame: Babolat RPM Blast strung at 22kg.
MSV Focus Hex Ultra Playtest and Review
First Impressions
Just like a good book, the first impression of a tennis string can often reveal much about how it will play and MSV Hepta Twist made a solid introduction.
In my opinion, the colour of the string is extremely attractive since its dark and elegant anthracite colour is gently broken by the light reflecting on its rough coating.
Its unusual heptagonal twisted structure immediately piqued my interest and made me wonder about the string’s ability to generate great spin.
Once I’d taken a closer look at the string and felt it, it was strung in my VCORE SV 100 at 22kg and onto the courts.
Groundstrokes
One of the areas where the Hepta Twist truly outshines other MSV Strings is its spin and control.
With the innovative heptagonal twisted design, this string practically bites into the ball, resulting in impressive topspin.
The string communicated a strong sense of reliability reflected in my slice.
I felt very confident when I tried to attack a ball with my backhand slice, knowing that the string would have gripped it just enough to keep it from flying out of the court and bouncing above my opponent’s knee height.
While I can positively confirm MSV Hepta Twist’s spin potential, I was expecting to be able to generate more raw speed since the string claims to be power-oriented.
I noticed that, especially on slow balls, my attempt to swing fast through the ball would result in the string wrapping the ball excessively and consequently cause my shot to land not so far past the half-court.
Control is equally important; here, the Hepta Twist didn’t disappoint. I felt the ball almost adhering to the strings before being launched to the exact spot I had in mind.
It gave me a confidence boost, an assurance that the string held a steady grip on tension and response.
Touch Shots and Serves
In terms of feeling and control, the Hepta Twist did not disappoint. I felt the ball almost adhering to the strings before being launched to the exact spot I had in mind.
It gave me a confidence boost, an assurance that the string held a steady grip on tension and response.
MSV Hepta Twist offers a feel on the firmer side of the spectrum. This might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for me, it provided a satisfactory connection to the ball.
Drop shots, volleys, and touch shots all had an excellent feel, allowing me to decipher the court’s geometry accurately.
Nonetheless, I felt a slight lack of power when I tried to put away fast overheads.
The serving department was another area where the Hepta Twist made a significant difference. Especially on kick serve, I noticed the string’s ability to bite the ball just as much as I wanted to cause the ball to bounce far above my opponent’s shoulders.
Conversely to my experience with my groundstrokes, even the flat serves seemed to be hit with an extra bit of pop, coupled with accuracy, making my opponent’s return game all the more challenging.
Comfort
One thing some players might find off-putting about the Hepta Twist is its firm response, which contrasts sharply with racquets that offer a more forgiving and softer feel.
MSV Hepta Twist is noticeably stiffer, and while this property certainly provides a sense of predictability and precision, it could be a bit disconcerting for those with a penchant for a more plush, cushioned sensation on ball impact.
Durability
As an advanced player, I need to be able to trust my string to remain reliable, at least for the duration of a whole match.
There’s nothing more frustrating than a string that loses its playability halfway through the game, leaving you to question if you made a mistake on a shot or if it was the string’s fault.
So, I was pleasantly surprised by the Hepta Twist’s duration throughout the practice session, including practice points. After about 4 hours of intense play, I found no signs of wear and tear. The tension felt solid, and the string remained comfortable, even as it adopted a slightly firmer profile.
MSV Hepta Twist vs RPM Blast
Given the spin-prone shape of MSV Hepta Twist, drawing a comparison with the popular Babolat RPM Blast felt like an inevitable discussion.
While the RPM Blast might take the crown regarding raw power delivery, the Hepta Twist appeared just as performing in control and spin generation.
On the durability front, both strings put up a good fight.
However, the Hepta Twist retains its playability a tad longer, making it a friendlier choice for players needing more court time with a single string.
The Hepta Twist also takes the cake regarding value for money, offering a performance comparable to the RPM Blast but at a more budget-friendly price point.
Thus, the MSV Hepta Twist is a worthy contender against the Babolat RPM Blast.
Who is MSV Hepta Twist For?
The MSV Hepta Twist gauge 1.25 is the string for players who know their game and what they want from their strings.
This string is suitable for intermediate to advanced players who can appreciate the beauty of controlled shots and value spin as an integral part of their game.
These players understand the role of spin as a nifty trick to show off and a lethal weapon in their arsenal.
This string’s hexagonal shape is explicitly engineered to increase its spin potential, making it a perfect choice for expert players who enjoy commanding the game with consistent shots, accurate slices, and unpredictable serve.
However, as is often the case with any new experience, my initial playtest with the MSV Hepta Twist presented unique challenges and minor glitches that slightly marred the otherwise smooth experience.
One of the main sticking points during this detailed practice session was the nagging sense of wanting more power from the racquet.
There were instances when I noticed that the MSV Hepta Twist did not quite measure up to my expectations in this area.
The power on the groundstrokes felt a little wanting, especially when I was trying to land deep, penetrating shots from the baseline.
This was especially noticeable when trying to dispatch my opponents with decisive winners or while attempting to wrestle control of the point with aggressive and flat hits.
It occasionally felt like I had to go beyond my typical exertion levels, employing more physical effort than I was used to extracting the depth and strength I desired from my shots. This could cause arm injuries with an otherwise reasonably comfortable string.
These are initial observations, and these minor shortcomings may be mitigated over time with further use and adjustment.
Pros
Excellent spin potential
Good tension maintenance
Cons
Power – 7
Control – 9
Comfort – 8
Touch / Feedback – 8.5
Spin – 9.5
Snapback – 9
Durability – 8.5
Tension Maintenance – 8
8.4
SOLID
A very playable seven sided twisted string ideal for players who value spin as an integral part of their game.