[quarian]

Regarding mp88 and mp99, they are both good but different players different preferences. If tight budget, you can buy a clone of mp99 or mp99 from Apacs brand. About $65 or less, including grip and strings usually. MP99 clone is the PC998, it's a bit less head heavy than the MP99 I hear, full graphite of course. There are many clones here not available in US or Europe or NZ. Another very popular clone is Proace, both brands are very cheap in Malaysia, quite cheap in Singapore as long as you know how to buy.

The clones can take up to 27 or more lbs usually. My clone of nanospeed 7000 is strung at 26lbs, too high tension for me but it was already strung with a good string, BG85, included free, so decided to try it out.

MP99 is also head heavier than the MP88, not sure about stiffness. Both originals are selling for S$199 here with freebies, not sure if the promo is still on. Head heavy racquets not suitable for me so I won't bother buying unless it is very cheap.