HYPERLITE TRIBUTE/AUDIO. Noob needs some assistance please :)
 

Hey guys.
Long time stalker but first post.

Intro on me...
Originally a snowboarder but wakeboarded several times over about 5years. Now looking to get really into it. Am able to jump wake to wake both sides, 180's, surface 360's. My weight regularly ranges from 172lbs to 187lbs (weight training in sports seasons), height 5' 9''

So I have the chance to buy a complete setup on eBay of a hyperlite tribute 2011 and 2011 hyperlite audio bindings. The bindings are perfect size and the board is a 142. Package being offered for $250 which seems reasonable.
Link: http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/vie...w=261260478346

So just a few questions:
- Is this the correct length for me or too long?
- Should I go for this setup as my first board?
- I have some concerns about the small fins on the tribute. There also don't appear to be channels on the base as my friends boards do. I plan on taking out the centre fins. Good idea? Will the 4 moulded fins be enough?
- I kind of fancy the bindings as they are so similar to snowboard ones, I could easily get the setup and swap the bindings onto a different board?

Thanks for your help and sorry for being a pain (essay!).
Oh and sneaky bonus question, what should be my next trick progression?

That would be a good setup for you. I've had two tributes and audio boots. I didn't like the boots simply because they didn't fit my foot shape good. The board is great though. I still have one that I keep in the boat for a back up. Being a snowboarder you will like running without the center fin. It's nice and loose when neutral but still holds a great edge when charging. It's also a very forgiving and consistent board. The only thing I would warn is to make sure not to hit the ends of the board on stuff when transporting or storing because the bottom channels come out to a small tip and are easy to chip.

Thanks. That helps as I was more worried about the board. I'll go for it then. After all, debating between 140 and 142 is pointless as presumably it's hard to see any difference. Did the audio boots fit true to size, just wrong shape?

Oo and should I set the board up like my freestyle a snowboard. E.g completely centred (2screws out from each end)

Appreciate your help!

Yeah the sizing was fine, just too wide for my foot. And yeah most people completely center their boots.

Thanks. Will probably just set up the same as my snowboard in that case.
Appreciate the input! Anyone else with any experience of these boards I'd appreciate you opinion too.
Cheers

So the board arrived today. Looks class however am still concerned it may be too big/heavy at my current weight (175lbs). Will ride this week hopefully.
Also, with the boa bindings I can really get my foot ratcheted in there like my snowboard, feels like it'd provide good responsiveness but it is dangerous as I won't eject on bails? Thanks