My first thought is that it depends on how the 'A' joint is constructed.
Is a threaded metal pin used? If so, it will alter the balance point.
If it's a wood thread connection then the bal. pt. will not be affected.
As far as the hit, well that's subjective.
However, what could come into play is the combination of woods used for
the forearm and the wrap-handle.
Depending on the forearm wood, it could have a greater influence on the hit.
In a good way or in a bad way would depend on the wood used and what it's mating to.
Big Leaf Maple f/a into an Ebony handle may not qualify as a 'crisp' hit.
Conversely, a Rosewood f/a into a Rosewood handle may provide too much hit.
As Eric likes to say, it's a science. That and a lot of 'tap-tone' testing.
These are some of the choices a builder encounters when directing a cue to
a particular outcome.
Some builders will strive to perfect their particular hit with repeatability in
their cues so that ultimately all their cues will be known for that type of hit.
Then there are some builders, myself included, who relish the difference of hit
provided by the variety of woods that we use. It's up to the builder and in the end, his client.
If I build a Maple cue, I'd like it to hit like a Maple cue. That's my intention.
If I build a Rosewood cue, I want it to hit like Rosewood cue. They're meant to be different.
Basically, some builders want all their cues to hit the same and some builders don't.
Viva la difference. Choices are a good thing.
