Fine-tune your equipment with Head’s new 4-in-1 Diagnostic Center 

A racquet is conceived with a wide range of players in mind. Particular franchises may emphasize certain traits—enhanced spin, heightened control—yet even within those confines, it still can’t be all things to all players. What may play great in stock for many, may need a bit of tinkering to fit the needs of an individual.

Along the same lines, manufacturers do their level best to ensure their racquets are produced on spec. However, even with the best of intentions, identical models may differ when it comes to areas like balance, weight and swingweight, which can lead to differences in performance. Competitive players with multiple frames want to know that their equipment is indistinguishable.

That’s where new Head’s 4-in-1 machine can help. The diagnostic tool measures the weight, swingweight, twistweight and balance of a racquet. Those numbers can then be used to tweak the playability of a frame, or ensure that two frames have matching specs. Some strategic positioning of lead tape can bolster a racquet’s swingweight, alter its balance or confirm those attributes are equal.

The machine is designed to work for several different racquet sports, including tennis, pickleball, padel, squash and racquetball. In addition to adding torsional stability to its list of features, compared to the outgoing 3-in-1 model, everything is electric on this update. Its clamp can hold any type of frame horizontally or vertically to take the different measurements. A calibration bar is provided to ensure accurate figures. It also has a small scale that’s helpful for measuring the lead tape used for customization.

One spec that’s found in other diagnostic machines that the 4-in-1 doesn’t measure is stiffness or RA rating. The reason being, while worthwhile to know, it’s not a characteristic that can be altered. At least not without an engineering degree. So space and expense is saved for what can be realistically customized.

That said, the 4-in-1 is a big-ticket item ($2,900) for a niche audience. It’s intended for pro shops with a busy customization business, college teams, and discerning players who can afford the luxury of assuring the uniformity of their equipment. Those interested in purchasing a unit should email Head directly.