Tennis Magazine

FIRST TAKE:
Instead of drilling grommet holes through a frame that�s made with a single mold, Prince has built this intermediate-to advanced- player�s racquet by fusing two pieces of graphite with matching sets of large semicircular string holes. The result: huge holes that are designed to expand the frame�s sweet spot.

COMPARE TO:
Prince Triple Threat Stealth MP

HOW IT TESTED:
The grommet-free design allows the strings significantly greater movement on impact, creating a forgiving string bed with a large sweet spot. And the friction from the strings rubbing against the frame, along with polymer dampeners at the bottom of the head, snuffs out all vibration. If you like a damp feel, the O3 Red�s muted feedback will serve you well. Testers were impressed with the racquet�s maneuverability and punch on volleys but said the lack of stability on off-center hits discouraged them from charging forward. At the baseline, where there was more time to set up for shots, stability was less of an issue. But there was a point of contention between genders: Women said the racquet didn�t give them enough power, while men thought the power and control were just right.

BOTTOM LINE:
If you have a fairly powerful swing and like a damp feel, this racquet is for you.