Popular Post GolfSpy_APH Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Hello all, 2024 season is wrapping up and going to finish off strong with plenty of fun and exciting opportunities. Which leads us to what some may find a harder conversation, which is 2025. The truth is this season we pushed the limits of what this community was capable of. We pushed the limits of what the staff were capable of as well. We have had a record year with member testing which has been fun, but as with all things they must adapt and change for the better. For 2025 we will only be hosting 30 member tests. There are a few more things we are contemplating, such as even releasing the schedule when we have it built. So why the big change? A few things, one is HQ and what they want to see. With so much focus on member testing it was important that our forum not just been seen as that and that we have an identity outside of member testing. The other is we have seen a drop off in the quality of some of the reviews. If I break down the grades we had too many reviews that received lower grades and participation. We want these to be truly special and if it means lower the number to make them more earned then so be it. We will have had 350 plus members take part this season which is great, next year that number will be in the 160 range. I am sure there will be more questions and as I have always been I will be open and honest with the community about the approach and what we can expect to see. After all it is us as a community that will make this forum thrive. The last week or so the staff have been hard at work thinking of new ways to bring content and excitement to the community and to hopefully keep up the pace with the participation we had this year. You can look to see more of your content on our social platforms and more basic forum inspired content. We will have more Live Q&A and more of our fun and engaging community calls. We are hard at work for a new community map with course reviews integrated. I already know plenty of the reaction will be why and not a full understanding, many of you have been here long enough to know that we have in a sense been down this road before. For many of those who are newer, between 2017-2021 the norm for our community was about 28, 2022 we only had 12 and 2023 we boosted that number to 44. This year once again we pushed that limit. There are a lot of great new members who we will look to get involved, but with limited numbers we will have even higher expectations. While this change could mean some slowing of the growth we have seen it will also show the community who is here for what we offer as a community vs those who just want to sign up for free stuff. As Forum staff we look forward to this new challenge that is being presented to us and look forward to making the most out of each and every opportunity that is brought to the Forum! cnosil, Chux13, TSauer and 36 others 17 4 1 12 5 Quote as of Oct 5, 2024 (Past WITB) Driver: GT2 with Graphite Design AD CQ - check out the Driver Shootout! Wood: GT2 with Graphite Design AD CQ shaft (still love my Cobra F7's) Irons: T Series - T200 5 Iron T150 6-9 Iron Wedge: Toura Golf - A Spec 53,57 or SM10 45,49,53,57 degree wedges Putter: LINK! Full putter shootout incoming Balls: Vice Pro Plus Drip (Blue/Orange) Golf Bag: Ghost Anyday 5.0 Golf bag - Maverick colorway with MGS Logo Other: Vortex Anarch Rangefinder, searching for electric cart, Red Rooster The Root Glove and more Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post GolfSpy_APH Posted September 15 Author Popular Post Share Posted September 15 For whatever reason didn't see this pop up in RC so make sure it gets there with this post. William P, TJ Hall, frazzman80 and 7 others 10 Quote as of Oct 5, 2024 (Past WITB) Driver: GT2 with Graphite Design AD CQ - check out the Driver Shootout! Wood: GT2 with Graphite Design AD CQ shaft (still love my Cobra F7's) Irons: T Series - T200 5 Iron T150 6-9 Iron Wedge: Toura Golf - A Spec 53,57 or SM10 45,49,53,57 degree wedges Putter: LINK! Full putter shootout incoming Balls: Vice Pro Plus Drip (Blue/Orange) Golf Bag: Ghost Anyday 5.0 Golf bag - Maverick colorway with MGS Logo Other: Vortex Anarch Rangefinder, searching for electric cart, Red Rooster The Root Glove and more Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post sirchunksalot Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 I appreciate all the hard work you and the others members of the forum staff have put in this year by bringing in an insane number of member tests. I can only imagine how much work y'all have put in both in getting these opportunities and guiding us through them. I'm appreciative of the transparency and honesty both in this post and the community call about where both the forum and testing are going next year. I have a feeling no other forum has the transparency we do and that is something I love about our community. jbern, GolfSpy_SHARK, Indy_Oz and 17 others 13 2 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Josh Parker Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Stronger reviews and content can outweigh quantity any day. Sure this place is about opportunities to test new products but it's also about community and I would challenge anyone to find a better one out there! Rob Person, Vegan_Golfer_PNW, BKervin and 21 others 14 1 3 6 Quote Titleist GT3 11* Tensei 1k blue Titleist TSR2 4w 16* Titleist TSR2 5w 18.75* MKII ZX 5's (4-6) w/ KBS Tour V MKII ZX 7's (7-PW) w/ KBS Tour V Vokey SM9 Wedges 50* 54* 58* DF2.1 Putter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Coulter Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Thank you for the update on next year! I know I’m new here but I really enjoy the community and insight provided here not just the opportunities to receive some awesome products. Hopefully less testing opportunities doesn’t result in too much of a drop off in participation in the forum as a whole. ejgaudette, Golfspy_CG2, GolfSpy_APH and 14 others 17 Quote I have a cobra rad speed driver, cobra fly z 3 and 5 wood, PXG 0311 P Gen 7 irons (4-GW), 54&58 degree Sub70 246 wedges, Tommy Armour #2 wide blade putter. When I’m playing to keep score I typically play the Maxfli Tour X. When just getting a round in with friends or scrambling I play whatever I might find on the course or might find at the bottom of my bag. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Medfloat Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Oooof, if….when, WHEN…I get selected to test a product, I am going to keep a copy of the roadmap for reviews on the fridge and the bathroom door (we know which one I’m talking about), the tool box, the dash of the truck, the work locker…too much? Heck No! Gotta try to exceed the set standards I will agree to WHEN yall pick me to test something! BKervin, sirchunksalot, Lefty11 and 12 others 10 4 1 Quote Driver - G410+ LA golf 65S 3wood - G400 Aldia green 75S 5 wood - G410 Aldia 75S 4-pw Iron - M3 steel fiber i110 Wedges - Glide 3.0 50, 54, 58 Nippon 115 Putter - O-Works 2-ball Ball - ProV1x Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post TJ Hall Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 This year has been incredible for testing, but some are almost too hard to follow (ie, multiple tests going on at the same time). I appreciate everything that goes on behind the scenes to make these tests (and the forum as a whole) operate. @GolfSpy_APH and all of the other mods have done great things with MGS. Testing is just a small piece of the forum, the people here are the key! Rob Person, The TXBexar, Josh Parker and 21 others 21 1 1 1 Quote TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Driver TaylorMade Sim Ti 3 wood Titleist U505 Hybrid (3H) TaylorMade Tour Preferred CB Irons (4-PW) Vokey SM8 Wedges (52/56/60) Odyssey Ai-ONE 7S Putter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post bens197 Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 1 hour ago, TJ Hall said: This year has been incredible for testing, but some are almost too hard to follow (ie, multiple tests going on at the same time). I appreciate everything that goes on behind the scenes to make these tests (and the forum as a whole) operate. @GolfSpy_APH and all of the other mods have done great things with MGS. Testing is just a small piece of the forum, the people here are the key! I share the same sentiment and cannot imagine how much back end work is involved. 160 opportunities is still phenomenal. My sincere gratitude to the entire staff as well as the members who really brought it this year with some excellent reviews. GolfSpy_APH, KC Golf, Rob Person and 17 others 19 1 Quote PING G400 LST Mitsubishi Tensei White 60X TaylorMade SIM2 3 wood Fujilkura Ventus Blue 7-X Titleist U505 2 Tensei 1K Black 85 X Titleist T100 4-P Nippon Modus 3 120X PING S159 50-S 55-H 59-T DG X100 L.A.B. MEZZ Max Broom Accra 47" 79.5* Srixon Z-Star XV Currently testing the 2024 PING S159 wedges… https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/63483-testers-announced-ping-s159-wedges/ Was testing, still loving the 2023 Titleist T100 Irons 4-P https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/60456-titleist-t-series-irons-2023-forum-review/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Shrek74 Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 I don't recall how many tests will be completed by year's end, but I know it'll be a LOT. It's an incredible testament to the forum staff to keep things running smoothly throughout this year's chaos. I don't have all the background from year's past as I really only re-engaged early summer last year. But I can understand HQ's concern about the forum becoming known purely for testing opportunities. With the number we will have done this year, it's an understandable conclusion. With the cut in opportunities next year, your concern about the drop off in participation is inevitable. There are plenty of people only here for those opportunities for "free stuff" as you said. Those folks will likely disappear. Luckily, from what I've witnessed over the past 1.5 years there is an incredible foundation of members who won't let the number of tests deter them from being here daily and consistently being involved in other posts and topics. As long as HQ is aware that a drop-off is inevitable, we should be fine. Regardless of what comes next year, I'll be here enjoying it all - testing or non-testing threads. My thought around the releasing of the testing schedule - I wouldn't make it public. What I think will happen is that the "part-timers" will only be involved around the time a test is coming that they want to try and get picked for, then disappear otherwise. Keep it to you mods, and let us enjoy the surprise of the tests getting announced. Just my $0.02. Chux13, Vegan_Golfer_PNW, The TXBexar and 19 others 20 2 Quote Driver: AI Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver, 11.5* @ 10.5* D, Stiff HZRDUS Smoke Blue RDX, 70g, 43.75" 4 Wood: Stealth Plus 5w, 19* @ 17*, Stiff HZRDUS Smoke Blue RDX, 70g 7 Wood: Stealth2 21*, Stiff Ventus Red TR 6-S Non-Velocore Hybrid: Fli-Hi 23* Hybrid / Iron Replacement, UST Mamiya Recoil 95 F4 Irons: JPX923 Hot Metal Pro, 5-GW, UST Mamiya Recoil 95 F4 Wedges: S23, 54* & 60*, UST Mamiya Recoil 95 F4 Putter: Moment X Tour @ 35" & 71*, Super Stroke Pistol GT 2.0, White/Red Ball: Tour CG Technology: Anarch Rangefinder, V5 w/ Tags Shot Tracking. https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/65161-vortex-optics-rangefinders-2024-member-test/?do=findComment&comment=1089247 https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/66852-unofficial-review-tpi-virtual-assessment https://forum.mygolfspy.com/classifieds/ - DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE CLASSIFIEDS!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Josh Parker Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 14 minutes ago, Shrek74 said: My thought around the releasing of the testing schedule - I wouldn't make it public. What I think will happen is that the "part-timers" will only be involved around the time a test is coming that they want to try and get picked for, then disappear otherwise. Keep it to you mods, and let us enjoy the surprise of the tests getting announced. Just my $0.02 I 100% agree with this Lefty11, poprocksncoke, Medfloat and 13 others 16 Quote Titleist GT3 11* Tensei 1k blue Titleist TSR2 4w 16* Titleist TSR2 5w 18.75* MKII ZX 5's (4-6) w/ KBS Tour V MKII ZX 7's (7-PW) w/ KBS Tour V Vokey SM9 Wedges 50* 54* 58* DF2.1 Putter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post KC Golf Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 I have said this a few times already this year, but the Mods have just knocked it out of the park this year. Innovative tests, OEM synched launch day tests, lots of one off tests with new brands and products. i can see that too many tests particularly in the same weeks is a problem for many reasons. The Forum is under great leadership, so I know the direction and focus of the Forum will continue to only get better for members, HQ and the OEMs. Looking forward to seeing what happens in 2025! Vegan_Golfer_PNW, EasyPutter, Shrek74 and 17 others 20 Quote TSR 3 9.0 Autoflex 405x - Official Tester 2024 TSi 3 15.0 GD Tour AD - DI 6S Stiff Utility 2 Iron 18.0 - Nippon NS Pro 650GH Stiff / TS3 21 Hybrid Tensei AV Blue 65 HY Stiff 4 - 9 101T Irons - KBS Tour Lite Stiff - Official Tester 2023 Vokey SM9 46 F - 10 BV105 Stiff Vokey SM9 52 F - 12 Nippon NS Pro 950 Stiff Vokey Forged (Japan) 56 M - 10 DG S200 MG3 60 - 12 - Nippon NS Modus3 Tour 105 Stiff Champions Choice Newport 2+ Button Back - 35” / Pistolini Plus Z-Star Diamond Players 4 bag Official Tester - 2021 & Current Club Sensor User Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post IndyBonzo Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Thanks to all the Mods for all the hard work you do. The testing opportunities have been truly wonderful. And you provide excellent support to the testers in the background. i for one fully support initiatives to ensure review quality. Medfloat, TSauer, GolfSpy_APH and 14 others 17 Quote Working at getting better ... and very slowly getting there. Paradym Max 8* ( Shogun Blue M0 Otto-Phlex) Brnr Mini driver 13.5* ( FX 3.0 140 M1 Otto-Phlex) Paradym X 4 and 5 Hybrids Maltby TS1 (shafts: Tour 120S) RTX6 Zipcore 53*, and 58* mid wedges ( wedge shafts 6.5) Frontline Elite 1.0 Gloves My Official 2024 TaylorMade Qi10 Review: https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/62804-taylormade-qi10-drivers-2024-forum-member-review/?do=findComment&comment=1014200 My Official 2023 Red Rooster Sussex Glove Review: https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/58614-2023-mgs-forum-member-test-red-rooster-sussex-golf-glove/#comment-911042 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Berg Ryman Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Jaime, what guys do is actually nothing short of miraculous in the opportunities we receive, but an approach to quality over quantity is a calibration I think for the better of both the community involvement in the tests and the tester pool at large. As far as a release of the calendar, that's an interesting choice. I'd say maybe like a teaser announcement, and I have an idea with it, kind of like a team wide Apple presser style announcement. Could be fun William P, TSauer, GolfSpy_APH and 16 others 17 2 Quote In a Hoofer Lite bag AI Smoke Max, 12*, set -1/D, Project X RDX Smoke Red 50, 6.0 Flex Stealth, 15 degrees, VA Composites Nemesys 70-S E722, 19 degrees, Oban Devotion 80-S JPX 921 Hot Metal Pro 4-P, Nippon 950GH Stiff Flex CBX Zipcore 50* (bent to *49) and RTX Zipcore Tour Rack 54* (bent to *55), DG 115 Spinner, Tour Issue Staff Model TG 60*, Dynamic Gold 120 S300 SIK Golf Flo-C Prov V1X Left Dash... for now Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post RichL85 Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 As always, I for one appreciate the transparency Jamie. The sheer number of tests this year has been incredible. Having said that, personally, I've had a tough time keeping up with all of the ones of interest to me as some of them progressed very quickly and coincided with other tests. It was a challenge to keep up with some of them. As far as the testing calendar, I like the surprise approach. I feel like some people will hone in on a specific few tests they want and really focus at that time of the year in an attempt to be selected. Of course I trust the mod team to see these kinds of things and make solid selections as you have done, but by having a schedule out, I feel like you could risk some early year participation with people waiting for a specific test later in the year. The quality of the tests should be important as they contribute a piece of the community, but this place is so much more than just testing. The overall community will remain, and honestly anyone that is around purely for the testing is missing out on the best part of the forums. Golf2Much, Medfloat, jbern and 13 others 14 2 Quote Driver: Titleist GT3 w/ GD Tour AD VF 6S (Testing in progress) 3 & 5 Woods: Titleist GT3 w/ GD Tour AD VF 7S (Testing in progress) Hybrids: 19 and 22 degree PXG 0317XF Gen 4 w/ Project X Evenflow Riptide 80g Irons: 5-PW PXG 0311P Gen 4 w/ KBS Tour 120 Wedges: Indi 50 FLX, 54 FLX, 58 ATK w/ KBS Wedge 610 (Official Review) Putter: PXG Battle Ready Blackjack, 36.5”, Double Bend neck Titleist GT Long Game Testing Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Shankster Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 Great update. I will echo that it is hard to keep up with this many things going on at once, but those opportunities I am sure were welcomed with open arms. I don’t think you needed to say “Only 30” though, because Any test opportunity is better than 0. I have been MIA for the “busy” years, but the forum is in great shape, you and the staff are doing a fantastic job Good Sir. Keep up the outstanding work Fellas. ejgaudette, TJ Hall, mpatrickriley and 17 others 18 2 Quote Driver: Callway Rogue St Triple Diamond 9* 2 HY: Mizuno STZ 230 16* (set to 13.75) 2 Iron: Taylormade UDI 17* Irons: 2019 Titleist T100S 3-PW Wedges: Vokey SM6 54* and SM9 48* / Taylormade MG3 TW 56* Putter: PING Anser Ball: Pro V1 Bag: Jones Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Tom the Golf Nut Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 I have been around for over six years. I've been through the tough times and our current crazy busy times. Reducing the number of tests from this season is a smart thing to do. Quality over quantity is always a good thing. But I'm afraid the Forum unleashed a beast. Now we have companies reaching out to be part of testing on top of our staff reaching out for opportunities. It will be hard turning some things away without causing some ill feelings. For the schedule, I would still not disclose up front. You don't want everybody holding out for a bigger opportunities. However things pan out just know the Forum Staff has done an amazing job. The forum is the forum and testing was just a bonus. ejgaudette, yungkory, Josh Parker and 21 others 17 2 5 Quote Driver, TSi 1 S Flex 3 wood, Aerojet Max UST Helium Nanocore R Flex 5 wood, Aerojet Max UST Helium Nanocore R Flex 7 Wood, Aerojet Max UST Helium Nanocore R Flex 5 Hybrid King Tec MMT R Flex Irons, Vice VGI01 Mitsubishi Wiz 60-gram regular flex (6 - PW) VGW01, 50 Degree. Mitsubishi Wiz 60-gram regular flex, Wedges, Snakebite KBS Hi- Rev2.0 54* & 60* Putter, Sacks Parente Drac Center Shafted 35" Ultralight 14-way Cart Bag Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post LeakyValve Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 As someone who has tested in the past at a quicker than some might feel rate, and who's getting ready to do another test, I think for me I'd like to know how I did personally. What did I do well? What did I miss? Too much in my "official review post?" Too little. Pictures, videos etc. I kinda relate it back to this game that's brought us here. If a buddy is always doing the same thing thinking it's fine and we never tell him "hey man you need to fill your divot, or fix your ball mark on the green," he will never know. I understand that could make things a bit tricky telling someone "hey. This review didn't cut it this time," since they would never know if they would get the chance to do better. I also can see this being a bit trick in terms of man power too. Having to go through everyone's reviews with all their content etc and grading it can take lot of the staffs time. Just a thought is all. (Thank you again for the opportunity to test) ejgaudette, TJ Hall, Siamese Moose and 16 others 16 1 2 Quote "We're weekend golfers. Of course we just buy gear off the racks and wonder why it doesn't work" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post LeakyValve Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 10 minutes ago, Tom the Golf Nut said: For the schedule, I would still not disclose up front. You don't want everybody holding out for a bigger opportunities. Gotta agree with Tom here. I pretty much apply for everything that I feel I could actually see myself using for years or a piece of tech that could help me. Lots of times things are restricted to location which I totally get. But if it's NA or a world wide thing I'm there. TJ Hall, poprocksncoke, BKervin and 8 others 11 Quote "We're weekend golfers. Of course we just buy gear off the racks and wonder why it doesn't work" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post EasyPutter Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 (edited) I'm thinking about the numbers of new testers and perhaps employing a coaching element would be helpful. Where experienced testers who have "made the grade" act as subject matter experts (SMEs) not for the products but for how to approach the testing, the preparation involved, the mechanics of unboxing, designing the test in an intentional approach, the capturing the experience however it happens, the documenting the experience and testing with results, the packaging the reviews for publication ready results, so that the final product is top level and ready for public consumption. Apart from the previous run-on sentence, I embrace the opportunity to test as it is an odyssey and adventure from which I am truly spent and glad to have it finished once the call is made to have the reviews posted by the date identified by the directing Moderator of the product test. I would like to know every other tester has done his/her utmost to achieve the same "stick a fork in me 'cause I'm done" result. I would be willing as an adult learning professional educator to throw my hat into the ring of a SME pool for such mentoring through the process for anyone who is new to the testing world of the MGS Forum. As one of my education professors once said, "which would you rather be, the sage on the stage or the guide on the side?" I always prefer the guide on the side because I would much rather "teach others how to fish" than "provide others a prepared meal." Edited September 16 by EasyPutter readability The TXBexar, KC Golf, Josh Parker and 20 others 18 3 1 1 Quote Derek Verified Hack, ~25 handicap Golf for exercise and peace of mind. WITB ( That's Linked as is everything underlined ) |> Big Dogs: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D (10.5), Tommy Armour TA1 3h (19), O'Donnell Triumph Maraging (15) (27), Ginty Trouble Club (29) |> Blades: First StrikeTM DeliveranceTM 4(23) 5(26) 6(29) 7(33) 8(37) 9(41) P(45) |> Wedges: Worx (55) Lovett (59) |> Flatstick: L.A.B. Golf DF2.1 C130 Supercharged 3.5+ Q6 Slope Premium MGS Logo Ball mark IGBRC International Golf Ball Rescue Commission / Founder Member Graduate/Mentor "The World's Greatest Golf Club Without The Course" Member #334 Tester It's all lies I tell you, everywhere the golf ball comes to rest! If it wasn't for inconsistency, I would have no consistency in my game! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Siamese Moose Posted September 15 Share Posted September 15 I rather like the idea of publishing the full list in advance, however, I'd tell people that they can only apply for a limited number of tests. This should get applicants to prioritize only to what they're really interested in, and I think that should lead to better reviews. EasyPutter, Lefty11, Golfspy_CG2 and 3 others 4 2 Quote Moose, my cat, is Siamese Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lefty11 Posted September 15 Share Posted September 15 (edited) I appreciate the extensive testing opportunities available at MGS. This year, I was fortunate to test the Vice Pro Air golf ball, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I believe my past experience will be valuable for future testing opportunities. Moving forward, I plan to apply only for the tests that interest me most. I fully support MGS in reducing the number of tests. I can only imagine the challenge of managing the amount they had this past year. Edited September 15 by Lefty11 Medfloat, Rob Person, EasyPutter and 5 others 8 Quote PXG 0211 15* Taylormade Sim 2 max 18* hybrid (Taylormade) 22* hybrid (Adams) 25* hybrid (Tour edge) irons - Callaway Big Bertha 2002 (It's a long story!) Putter - Odyssey AI one 2 ball DB 35¨ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Golfspy_CG2 Posted September 15 Popular Post Share Posted September 15 3 hours ago, Shankster said: Great update. I will echo that it is hard to keep up with this many things going on at once, but those opportunities I am sure were welcomed with open arms. I don’t think you needed to say “Only 30” though, because Any test opportunity is better than 0. I have been MIA for the “busy” years, but the forum is in great shape, you and the staff are doing a fantastic job Good Sir. Keep up the outstanding work Fellas. Yeah 30 is still a big number. If you simply look at as 1 a week, thats over 7 months of testing or April to November. There are already some nice ones lined up for 2025! William P, Lefty11, TJ Hall and 13 others 8 5 3 Quote G430 Max 10K TSiR1 15.0 Aldlia Ascent 60g TSR2 18.0 PX Aldila Ascent 6og TSi1 20 Aldila Ascent Shafts R T350 5-GW SteelFiber I80 SM10 48F/54M and58K S159 48S/52S/56W/60B Select 5.5 Flowback 35" ProV1 Play number 12 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bens197 Posted September 16 Share Posted September 16 8 hours ago, Shrek74 said: I don't recall how many tests will be completed by year's end, but I know it'll be a LOT. It's an incredible testament to the forum staff to keep things running smoothly throughout this year's chaos. I don't have all the background from year's past as I really only re-engaged early summer last year. But I can understand HQ's concern about the forum becoming known purely for testing opportunities. With the number we will have done this year, it's an understandable conclusion. With the cut in opportunities next year, your concern about the drop off in participation is inevitable. There are plenty of people only here for those opportunities for "free stuff" as you said. Those folks will likely disappear. Luckily, from what I've witnessed over the past 1.5 years there is an incredible foundation of members who won't let the number of tests deter them from being here daily and consistently being involved in other posts and topics. As long as HQ is aware that a drop-off is inevitable, we should be fine. Regardless of what comes next year, I'll be here enjoying it all - testing or non-testing threads. My thought around the releasing of the testing schedule - I wouldn't make it public. What I think will happen is that the "part-timers" will only be involved around the time a test is coming that they want to try and get picked for, then disappear otherwise. Keep it to you mods, and let us enjoy the surprise of the tests getting announced. Just my $0.02. Purely speculative on my part. I do wonder how many testers chose to test then bail following their review window. This could be a contributing factor to the 2025 plan. But it’s not based on anything but a guess. EasyPutter, Rob Person, The TXBexar and 9 others 7 5 Quote PING G400 LST Mitsubishi Tensei White 60X TaylorMade SIM2 3 wood Fujilkura Ventus Blue 7-X Titleist U505 2 Tensei 1K Black 85 X Titleist T100 4-P Nippon Modus 3 120X PING S159 50-S 55-H 59-T DG X100 L.A.B. MEZZ Max Broom Accra 47" 79.5* Srixon Z-Star XV Currently testing the 2024 PING S159 wedges… https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/63483-testers-announced-ping-s159-wedges/ Was testing, still loving the 2023 Titleist T100 Irons 4-P https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/60456-titleist-t-series-irons-2023-forum-review/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shrek74 Posted September 16 Share Posted September 16 2 hours ago, Tom the Golf Nut said: But I'm afraid the Forum unleashed a beast. Now we have companies reaching out to be part of testing on top of our staff reaching out for opportunities. It will be hard turning some things away without causing some ill feelings. I've been thinking a lot about this today. It'll be an extremely fine line to walk with the OEMs when you turn them down when they come with opportunities. Turn them down once, they may not come back. Go to them in the future after turning them away, they may tell you to go pound sand. I'm not saying you can't turn anyone down in fear of losing them for any future ops. It'll just be a very fine line to walk. Just something to think about and figure out the best way to deal with the OEMs. EasyPutter, jbern, TJ Hall and 9 others 9 3 Quote Driver: AI Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver, 11.5* @ 10.5* D, Stiff HZRDUS Smoke Blue RDX, 70g, 43.75" 4 Wood: Stealth Plus 5w, 19* @ 17*, Stiff HZRDUS Smoke Blue RDX, 70g 7 Wood: Stealth2 21*, Stiff Ventus Red TR 6-S Non-Velocore Hybrid: Fli-Hi 23* Hybrid / Iron Replacement, UST Mamiya Recoil 95 F4 Irons: JPX923 Hot Metal Pro, 5-GW, UST Mamiya Recoil 95 F4 Wedges: S23, 54* & 60*, UST Mamiya Recoil 95 F4 Putter: Moment X Tour @ 35" & 71*, Super Stroke Pistol GT 2.0, White/Red Ball: Tour CG Technology: Anarch Rangefinder, V5 w/ Tags Shot Tracking. https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/65161-vortex-optics-rangefinders-2024-member-test/?do=findComment&comment=1089247 https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/66852-unofficial-review-tpi-virtual-assessment https://forum.mygolfspy.com/classifieds/ - DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE CLASSIFIEDS!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post bens197 Posted September 16 Popular Post Share Posted September 16 Just now, Shrek74 said: I've been thinking a lot about this today. It'll be an extremely fine line to walk with the OEMs when you turn them down when they come with opportunities. Turn them down once, they may not come back. Go to them in the future after turning them away, they may tell you to go pound sand. I'm not saying you can't turn anyone down in fear of losing them for any future ops. It'll just be a very fine line to walk. Just something to think about and figure out the best way to deal with the OEMs. Frame it in this manner instead. This forum has earned a lot of credibility. In the same regard as a well esteemed restaurant, everyone does not get a seat at the table. It becomes more exclusive and elevates rather than dilutes the product, being the forum and its reviews. Chux13, William P, Medfloat and 13 others 13 1 2 Quote PING G400 LST Mitsubishi Tensei White 60X TaylorMade SIM2 3 wood Fujilkura Ventus Blue 7-X Titleist U505 2 Tensei 1K Black 85 X Titleist T100 4-P Nippon Modus 3 120X PING S159 50-S 55-H 59-T DG X100 L.A.B. MEZZ Max Broom Accra 47" 79.5* Srixon Z-Star XV Currently testing the 2024 PING S159 wedges… https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/63483-testers-announced-ping-s159-wedges/ Was testing, still loving the 2023 Titleist T100 Irons 4-P https://forum.mygolfspy.com/topic/60456-titleist-t-series-irons-2023-forum-review/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post TJ Hall Posted September 16 Popular Post Share Posted September 16 2 hours ago, EasyPutter said: I'm thinking about the numbers of new testers and perhaps employing a coaching element would be helpful. Where experienced testers who have "made the grade" act as subject matter experts (SMEs) not for the products but for how to approach the testing, the preparation involved, the mechanics of unboxing, designing the test in an intentional approach, the capturing the experience however it happens, the documenting the experience and testing with results, the packaging the reviews for publication ready results, so that the final product is top level and ready for public consumption. Apart from the previous run-on sentence, I embrace the opportunity to test as it is an Odyssey and adventure from which I am truly spent and glad to have it finished once the call is made to have the reviews posted by the date identified by the directing Moderator of the product test. I would like to know every other tester has done his/her utmost to achieve the same "stick a fork in me 'cause I'm done" result. I would be willing as an adult learning professional educator to throw my hat into the ring of a SME pool for such mentoring through the process for anyone who is new to the testing world of the MGS Forum. As one of my education professors once said, "which would you rather be, the sage on the stage or the guide on the side?" I always prefer the guide on the side because I would much rather "teach others how to fish" than "provide others a prepared meal." This is a great idea…it is a bit of a learning experience going through a test. The moderators have been great providing feedback and answering any questions, but having an additional group to help might be beneficial. frazzman80, William P, Rob Person and 7 others 9 1 Quote TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Driver TaylorMade Sim Ti 3 wood Titleist U505 Hybrid (3H) TaylorMade Tour Preferred CB Irons (4-PW) Vokey SM8 Wedges (52/56/60) Odyssey Ai-ONE 7S Putter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post WaffleHouseTour Posted September 16 Popular Post Share Posted September 16 14 hours ago, GolfSpy_APH said: We are hard at work for a new community map with course reviews integrated. This! If there is one thing missing from the forum its course reviews. Granted, there are other (cough, cough) places on the internet that specialize in that. But for all the things discussed here, the equipment, technique, skill, etc., the one area that doesn’t get discussed much are the courses. Or maybe it’s just me and I keep missing them, and if so, ignore the above. William P, jbern, sirchunksalot and 9 others 11 1 Quote Walking ahead of my BagBoy QuadXL w Alphard eWheels Driver: Callaway Mavrik SubZero 9* Neutral w stock Evenflow Riptide R flex shaft 3W Titelist TS2 15* Draw w Tensei Blue R flex 3H, 4H Cobra One Length F9 Speedback hybrids (1”short) w Fujikura Atmos R flex shaft 5I-GW Cobra Forged TEC Black One Length (1”short, 2* flat) KBS 90 R flex shafts 56, 60 Cobra King MIM One Length Black (1” short) KBS HiRev2.0 125 S flex shafts ER7 or Scotty Futura X - 35” OnCore Elixr (lemon or lime) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Indy_Oz Posted September 16 Popular Post Share Posted September 16 16 hours ago, GolfSpy_APH said: For 2025 we will only be hosting 30 member tests. There are a few more things we are contemplating, such as even releasing the schedule when we have it built. ... We will have had 350 plus members take part this season which is great, next year that number will be in the 160 range. ... We will have more Live Q&A and more of our fun and engaging community calls. We are hard at work for a new community map with course reviews integrated. Thanks for the transparent approach to future planning! I'd vote for quality over quantity any day. We all want to see thorough testing and I'm very appreciative of the testing opportunities I've been presented and I'm very cognizant of the responsibility and need to meet all requirements as best I can. I look forward to seeing the makeup of 2025 testing. After the current test I'm in, I plan on trying to contribute more outside official testing- like unofficial product reviews/ tests. Hone the testing art a little on my own time, as it were. I love being part of this community and it's a really nice distraction from mainstream social media! I enjoy the live Thursday community calls and try to listen in to as many as I can- hearing those discussions adds to the feeling of transparency from you staff and helps foster a sense of belonging to a real community rather than just a bunch of bulletin boards.lol I like the idea of the community map and course reviews being integrated. If there's a way for multiple spies to add their own reviews and photos to a single course entry- like yelp and other search and review apps- that might be a valuable resource for the community. Thanks for all the work you and the other staff/ mods do to keep growing and evolving the MGS community. TJ Hall, Rob Person, frazzman80 and 7 others 10 Quote 2024 WITB: Driver: Ai Smoke Max 9* (@8*) w. Fujikura Ventus TR Blue 6X //or// stock Denali 60g 6.5 FW woods: TSR2+ 13* '2W' w. Mitsubishi Tensei White 75X & TSR2 21* 7W w. Mitsubishi Tensei White 75X Hybrid: Stealth+ 3H (@18*) w. Project X Hzrdus Smoke RDX Red 80/6.5 Irons: 5i-PW: '17 P790 w. KBS Tour C-Taper Lite 115X (Currently Testing: 4i-PW: 2024 P770 w. Project X T Rifle 6.0 (+1/4")) Wedges: 50/09 MG4; 56/12 MG4TW Raw; SM9 60/04L Putter: Phantom X7 w. GolfPride Reverse Taper Pistol Med grip Ball: TP5x // Maxfli Tour X // Callaway Chrome Tour Other: . Gogogo Sport V-Pro rangefinder; Woode Hybrid Stand Bag; Nitron push cart. 2024 Tests: Callaway Whitebox Test- Chrome Tour & Tour X Balls 2024 Sqairz Velo Shoe 2024 Taylormade P770 Irons (ongoing) "...pray that there's intelligent life somewhere up in space, 'cause there's bugger all down here on Earth!"- Eric Idle Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Rob Person Posted September 16 Popular Post Share Posted September 16 First off, transparency- it's not only unique to have here, it's refreshing. I know a number of members float between multiple sites, and have read many a reply about the negative side of those sites. I have rarely heard anything negative about MGS, and most of the negativity floats around from someone not being selected. Secondly, whether it's 160 or 600 test opportunities, it's the quality of those reviews that are the driving force behind OEMs coming back every year, and new ones jumping on board. Third- The List release. A whole year release may be a bit much, but perhaps a forum only, monthly or quarterly release list, would be a bit more practical. I think this would set real expectations for members to consider what they really may want to be a part of. I also remember it being discussed in the CC that while the major tests would be reduced, that there possibly would be less critical opportunities bought forth in between. These could remain as they are,as " pop up " opportunities, to fill some gaps and give new members some opportunities to showcase their review abilities. (ie- balls, training aids, gloves, etc etc) Fourth- I can't imagine the personal demand this much effort places on you as mods and staff. You aren't just managing the forums, you are actually working! I can only speak of my personal gratitude for what you do. So THANK YOU ALL. Lastly- The members here, and the quality of that membership, is second to none. The knowledge, the guidance, the generosity, the comradery, and the overall composure that everyone carries is insurmountable! For me, this is what MyGolfSpy is all about! LeakyValve, Fongle, rkj427 and 12 others 13 2 Quote WITB- Driver -Titleist 910D, 3w- Titleist 910F, 5hy/7hy- Titleist 910H, 6-PW - Stix , 52⁰, 56⁰, 60⁰ - Stix , Putter- AI-ONE DB / Lombardi Tour 34 custom Just an old newbie golfer, trying to learn and improve 1 club at a time. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post William P Posted September 16 Popular Post Share Posted September 16 As a newer member who was fortunate enough to be selected for testing in early 2024, I'd like to thank the Forum Staff for all the effort to pull off a record year of testing. The amount of their personal time spent managing this volume of testing is nothing short of commendable. It is unfortunate that expectations for testing and review have not been met in all cases as quality of review, and participation level are driving factors to the success of this benefit provided us from participating OEM's. I completely understand and agree with "quality vs quantity" being a strong consideration in the number of testing opportunities made available on an annual basis. While testing opportunities may be a key driver in membership growth, this community is much more than a "product testing" Forum as evidenced by the numerous threads and outside interactions shared due to relationships started within these confines. This group of gracious, giving, and caring individuals is the DNA that makes this Forum special. As for publishing an annual schedule I would prefer it remain as is, which provides for some added excitement and enthusiasm when announced. Besides, if fully published, @GolfSpy_APH wouldn't get to "stir the pot" before announcement of new opportunities. jbern, Shrek74, bens197 and 13 others 16 Quote GT4,10 *, Ventus Black TR 6 S Velacore TSR1, 15*, TPT Power Range Fairway 17 Lo TSR2, Hybrid, 18*, TPT Power Range Hybrid 17 Lo T-200, (2023), 5-PW, SteelFiber, i95cw, S Vokey Design - 50 & 54, SteelFiber i95cw S, and Vokey S10 - 46 & 58, SteelFiber i95cw S Odyssey JAILBIRD 380 Limited Edition ELIXR (2022), MaxFli Tour S (2024) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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