Phantoms don't wear out, they wear in.
Right out of the box they can be horribly stiff, and often less efficient.
Put a couple of cases of paint through it, and you'll notice a difference.
I'll probably get flak over that statement, so folks may disagree but it's been my experience that it takes time to wear down the tight spots and let the springs settle before it really "feels" right.
i agree about the feel, i actually sold my bnib phantom and bought a used one cuz i didnt want to wait for the break in period for the pump stroke.
i didnt think about the other half "often less efficient" makes sense, its like gettin a set of break pads/rotors and settin em by holding the break while you drive.
just keep pumpin away instead of somethin else...
