The latest Idol (Cosmos) is a pearlized version finished at 4000 grit. Much cleaner than the Helios yet smoother than the original Idol Pearl; in part due to the coverstock finish. The ball reads the mid's very well although not as strong as you would see with the Helios. The Cosmos will be a great step down from the Helios or an initial ball if your looking for a reaction that is cleaner yet still smooth. If you're looking for more angle and a more skid snap reaction add some shine to it to open up your angles and get deeper on the lane.