Dunlop has begun rolling out a jam packed lineup of new “tweener” frames after forging a partnership with Srixon. The new Dunlop Srixon Revo CV 3.0 F represents the mid weight, elliptical beam option with the CV series of frames. It boasts a full slate of technology additions. Synchro Charge carbon is utilized in the hoop to provide enhanced stability and vibration absorption. Also present in key areas of the hoop is a blend of silicone and urethane known as Sonic Core. This provides more energy return on impact as well as additional dampening properties. It also uses Booster Grooves, a series of thin frames across the hitting zone that creates more frame deformation and a larger sweet spot. One thing I’ve learned about all of the new Dunlop Srixon frames is that they don’t skimp on technology. I hit the court to see how the Revo CV 3.0 F would put all of that innovation to work.

Groundstrokes
Groundstrokes with the CV 3.0F were a solid blend of multiple attributes. The 11.1oz strung weight and 23/26/23mm beam ensured there was a solid level of power readily available. I also found a good size sweet spot with the 100 inch head. This model had a lower swingweight than both the 3.0 and 3.0 F Tour models so I found it to have a bit less power and weight of shot compared to those versions. I still found plenty of depth and pace from both sides, I simply had to work a little bit harder for it with this frame. As with the other CV series frames, I was impressed by the level of control this racquet had, given the “tweener” style build. It was easy to keep the ball from sailing long and I had enough directional accuracy to attack the lines and play aggressive, attacking tennis. While not capable of mind bending spin, the racquet’s 16x19 pattern made it a straightforward task to add air under the ball and use spin from both wings to push opponents further back or create angles to open the court up. While not as stable as the F Tour, this model still held its own absorbing pace and I felt it was one of the stronger performers in this style of racquet when it came to overall stability.

Volleys & Serves
The trend of surprisingly strong volley skills in the CV series continued with the CV 3.0 F. Its fast feel made it easy to position and not get caught behind the ball in quick volley exchanges. The power of the frame was easy to tap into any time I wanted to finish off a volley and drive it through the court. The racquet exhibited solid control on volleys as well. I easily moved the ball around the court and found it easy to dictate play from the net with the level of controlled power this racquet had. With a slightly more rigid build than the CV 3.0, it was not as capable at executing delicate volleys and touch shots. I wanted a bit more ball pocketing in order to add those shots into the mix consistently at net.

On serve the Revo CV 3.0 F showed its colors as a bit of a jack of all trades. The fast acceleration and solid mass combined to put some quality heat behind my first serve. While not as penetrating as the Tour designated F model, it still had plenty of ball speed to win free points. The impressive level of control was also a crucial element to serving with this racquet. While not as scalpel like as the CX series, I still felt confident I could hit aggressive spots and continuously vary the location of my serve. The spin friendly nature also gave me advantages on my second serve. Whether kicking the ball high or slicing it low and wide, I had enough variety on my second serve that I didn’t feel like I was ever starting a point out defensively on serve.

Feel/Comfort
Like its siblings, the feel of the Revo CV 3.0 F was above average for the style of racquet it matches up with. It offered a pleasant blend of firm yet clean response on contact. I only noticed increased jarring at the very top and outer edges of the frame, which to me wasn’t unexpected if making contact out there. I didn’t find quite as much ball pocketing as I did on the CV 3.0 but I still felt well connected to the ball overall. The string bed had a pretty uniform response with no major hot or dead spots. Given its firm design, this racquet wasn’t built for maximum, plush comfort levels. That said, I found it to be more forgiving than similar racquets on the market and I didn’t encounter any comfort problems during my play test. Sensitive players who are careful with their string type and tension should be able to use the racquet with little concern.

Overall
Dunlop Srixon has put forth some impressive first results from their partnership. This racquet represents a strong option for players who want a baseline centered frame that can handle quick transitions into all court play. It blends solid power and spin with above average levels of control and feel. The Dunlop Srixon Revo CV 3.0 F is a good match for any player looking for a more controlled take on a racquet for modern, power oriented tennis.

About the Reviewer: Matt Locke currently serves as the Junior Programs & Development Coordinator for USTA-Idaho and is an active USTA League and Tournament player.