The Idol Synergy is the 4th release from Roto Grip that uses the Ikon core. This version has a coverstock called eTrax Hybrid reactive and is finished to a 1500 grit polish. The amethyst pearl and Magenta solid color combination seems to really blend the original Idol and Idol pearl colors together. The Synergy has a 2.49 rg and a differential of 0.052 in 15lbs.
I drilled the Idol Synergy with a 4.5†pin and a 4†pin buffer. Comparing the Synergy to an Idol pearl with the same layout, the Synergy reads the lane a few feet earlier and covers more boards with just as strong of a backend reaction. The Synergy is cleaner through the fronts than the original Idol, with a stronger backend move. If there was ever truly a ball that fit right in the middle of it’s solid and pearl counterparts, this is it.
The one thing to take note of with the Synergy is it can be a bit sensitive to oil either being removed from the surface between shots or left on the ball. If I use my shammy with every shot, the Synergy has a strong late midlane move and plenty of hook and roll through the backend. If I don’t wipe the oil off the ball, after a few shots, the Synergy is not as strong when encountering the backends, and rolls more controllable. This can be a good thing as you go through a longer tournament block, you can manage your surface and actually stay with the ball longer without needing to switch as soon, just by managing the oil on the cover. During the start of the block when the lanes are fresh, keep the oil wiped off. As the lanes start hooking more and it gets later in the block, leave the oil on the ball to help control the motion.
I like the Idol Synergy. The combination of late midlane read, and backend reaction gives me a unique reaction shape that the other Idols didn’t have. Stop by your local VIP pro shop and drill an Idol Synergy. Own it!!