msilhanek's Rubber Ratings/Reviews

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Here are msilhanek's ratings and reviews. These ratings are useful because msilhanek has his/her own standard and will rate and review the ping pong equipment accordingly, giving you accurate and useful ratings and reviews to aid you in your next online purchase.

Butterfly (3)

Butterfly Bryce

Review of Butterfly Bryce

It is an excellent rubber for agressive attackers. If you don't wanna play highly rotated top spins and prefer speed + power, you should try Bryce. On the other hand it's lifetime is really short what is really not good combined with the prize.

Mar 17, 2011

Butterfly Bryce Speed FX

Speed	9.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	8.0
Control	8.0
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	3.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	8.5

Review of Butterfly Bryce Speed FX

Really fast rubber generating more spin than original Bryce Speed. It has a soft sponge really but it doesn't mean it has a lack of controll. It's lifetime is significantly longer comapring to Bryce (rated "lats longer than average"). I'd say it's a good choice for universal attackers, it provides a variable game.

Apr 08, 2011

Butterfly Tenergy 05

Speed	9.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	8.0
Weight	6.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	8.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	8.0

Review of Butterfly Tenergy 05

I was using it some time ago but I'm going back to the DHS Skyline 2 TG2 Neo. I can compare these 2 rubbers very well now. These rubbers are very close when comparing speed. Tenergy's throw angle is much higher (really high for me). Both rubbers have medium hard sponge but Tenergy's higher throw makes me somehow more difficult to controll it. But it depends on your style, I think many people like that because it is easier to get the ball over the net. Spin - DHS produces more, I'd say about 10-15%. It is not a huge difference but I can feel it. Conclusion - very good rubber, good for beginners and forgives mistakes. On the other hand you can buy much cheaper rubbers with more spin and controll (for example DHS Skyline 2 TG2 Neo). 8/10 (I'd rate it 9/10 if it wasn't so expensive).

EDIT (November 2011): I have to modify my Tenergy review. I originally wrote "it is good for beginners" but it really is not. I was using it for a longer time now and i must say this rubber is fast (but not extra fast), but I can't controll it because I have troubles with it's high throw. Additionally, I can't get a ball over the net so easily like with Rakza. I don't know, this rubber probably doesn't fit to my style.

Nov 18, 2011

Double Happiness (DHS) (3)

DHS NEO Skyline 2 TG2

Speed	8.5
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.5
Control	9.0
Weight	6.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Overall	9.5

Review of DHS NEO Skyline 2 TG2

I don't agree with aj123347's review fully but we can play totally different styles so different opinions like this could occur. I'm a top spin attacker prefering more spin. This rubber is really well suitable for top spin attackers imo, it's spin and controll is great. The level of speed is optimal for this kind of play imo (I'd say it's very close to Bryce). I really don't recommend it for agressive attackers because I think if this rubbers has a weak spot, is it driving. I don't feel so much controll when trying to play a fast drive stroke, the ball usually flies straight off the table (I recommend Bryce, Bryce Speed or Almana for this game style). My overall rank is 8,5 because this is not a complex rubber. If you prefer rotation and control, you've found a perfect weapon. If you don't, look about something else.

EDIT (April 2011): After some more time playing with this I've changed my overally ratings to 9.5. It's an offensive top spin rubber, many gears, great controll. Fast drive is still the weakest stroke but you can handle it comfortably after some time playing with it. Great weapon for a less than half price comparing to Butterfly products.

EDIT2: I was comparing the price to Butterfly but it doesn't mean it is a good alternative for Butterfly rubbers. It plays different and you need to spend some time to learn how to play with it. But when you get into it it's a really awesome rubber.

EDIT3 (August 2011): I've been using it since february and now I feel it needs to be replaced. Speed is still good but spin has decreased noticeably. I'll buy the Skyline TG2 Neo again because this is the best rubber I've ever played. I keep the durability rating on "lasts longer than average" because it lasted 6 month of intensive every day practice. It doesn't last ages but 6 month is very good for me (comparing to Bryce and more other rubbers).

EDIT4 (August 2011): Copy - paste from my Tenergy 05 review.
"I was using it some time ago but I'm going back to the DHS Skyline 2 TG2 Neo. I can compare these 2 rubbers very well now. These rubbers are very close when comparing speed. Tenergy's throw angle is much higher (really high for me). Both rubbers have medium hard sponge but Tenergy's higher throw makes me somehow more difficult to controll it. But it depends on your style, I think many people like that because it is easier to get the ball over the net. Spin - DHS produces more, I'd say about 10-15%. It is not a huge difference but I can feel it. Conclusion - very good rubber, good for beginners and forgives mistakes (Tenergy). On the other hand you can buy much cheaper rubbers with more spin and controll (for example DHS Skyline 2 TG2 Neo)".

EDIT5 (September 2011): I've bought a new sheet of this rubber. It was slow for the first hours but now after a week of practice it is the Skyline TG2 Neo in it's best. Still can't be sure about consistency but these my 2 sheets are almost identical (I can't remember if it felt slow for the 1st time when I bought the old sheet but I think it was).

EDIT6 (September 2011): I've been thinking about it and I've realised that ratings aren't objective at all. If you look at the ratings of this rubber, you'll say "awesome, easy to play rubber". Spinny, fast, high throw, high controll. But... Speed - If I compare other rubbers with the rating around 9... Uncomparable, this rubber isn't slow but it is much slower than Tenergy 05 (9.3) or Rakza (8.9). Spin and control is awesome, no doubt (higher than Tenergy). But what is totally wrong is the throw angle rating. I've rated it as medium. It isn't low (for example Joola Drum, this is really low). If you look at the rating, it says it has medium-high throw. But it isn't correct at all, I'd say it is medium but it is closer to medium-low. If you consider how this rubber plays, it is kinda slow, lower throw, very flat ball curve. You have to use lot of power and aim somehow higher to get it over the net, especially when looping. It isn't an easy to play rubber, it needs skills and good technique to use all the potential inside. I use it only on my forehand because it is the dominant stroke in my game, I can't use it on the backhand because this rubber doesn't forgive mistakes. It is awesome but you need some time and skills to use this. I strongly recommend to use this rubber with an off or off+ blade to compansate it's low speed. Summary - If you have mastered your top spin technique, your footwork is good and don't lack power in your hands, go for it. If you don't, you'll struggle.

Sep 10, 2011

DHS NEO Hurricane 3 Provincial (Orange Sponge)

Speed	8.5
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	8.0
Weight	8.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	6.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	7.0
Overall	9.0

Review of DHS NEO Hurricane 3 Provincial (Orange Sponge)

This is a good rubber. I read some comments about it some time ago and someone wrote that it's an "universal rubber". And I confirm it really is. You can play whatever you want with it. Comparing to Skyline 2 TG2 Neo (my fh rubber) it disposes less speed and controll (but both is still pretty good) but the spin is awesome. It has no obvious weak spots. The only problem is maybe the weight of the rubber because I feel now like my bat weighs a tone. You need to get used to it (especially when using it on both sides).

EDIT May 28-2011: I had an accident which damaged my Skyline 2 TG2 Neo so I was forced to use this as my fh rubber and use some of my older rubbers on my backhand. After that I can say Skyline TG2 Neo generates more spin and provides top spins easier. I've reduced my spin rating for it from 9.5 to 9.0. It is a spinny rubber but Skyline 2 TG2 Neo gives it more.

May 28, 2011

DHS NEO Skyline 3 TG3

Speed	8.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	8.5
Weight	6.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	8.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	7.0
Overall	9.0

Review of DHS NEO Skyline 3 TG3

Plays very simillar to TG2 Neo. Speed and controll is imo almost the same, spin slightly lower but still great. Another awesome rubber from DHS, I recommend it.

EDIT (September 2011): After some time I have to change my ratings. It is a good rubber but I don't understand it's description from the manufacturer. I use this on my BH (black, max) and it feels slower (this rubber is decribed "speed and controll"). Skyline 2 TG2 Neo is decribed as "spin and controll" but is faster than this one. I've bought 2 sheets of each rubber and I can confirm that Skline 3 Neo is really slower. Kinda weird but I don't care, my setup containing these 2 rubbers is awesome (the best setup so far after more than 15 years in the TT world).

Sep 02, 2011

Donic (2)

Donic Baracuda

Speed	8.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	7.5
Weight	6.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	6.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	9.0

Review of Donic Baracuda

I had a test bat (carbon OFF blade) with red Donic Baracuda and black Xiom Vega Europe. Baracuda is not very fast but it is still an attack rubber. It generates more spin than Xiom, controll is pretty nice in both cases.

EDIT: I'm using Baracuda on my BH side atm. I usually choose a chinese tacky rubber on my FH and this combination works well. Good spin, speed, controll = good rubber.

Jan 24, 2013

Donic Coppa X1 Turbo Platin

Speed	9.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	7.0
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	0.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Overall	9.0

Review of Donic Coppa X1 Turbo Platin

I like this rubber. Donic says about this one it has a medium-hard sponge but I don't think it is hard really. It is medium imo (simillar to Rakza or Acuda S2). It's speed is very good, exactly what you need from an offensive rubber. Spin is very good as well. Throw angle is medium, controll isn't somehow extra high but still enough for slower controlled strokes or blocks. 9/10.

Feb 15, 2012

Friendship/729 (1)

Friendship/729 Faster 3 (Fenghun 3)

Speed	8.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.5
Control	8.0
Weight	8.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	8.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Overall	8.0

Review of Friendship/729 Faster 3 (Fenghun 3)

I've bought it for a test. My 1st impression was "hmm, it looks like a high quality product". My rubber is black 2.2mm thick sponge. When I unpacked it, I sayd "pretty heavy". And it really is. After that I noticed the sponge is kinda hard (should be 38Â°). But chinese rubbers usually are harder so I wasn't thinking about it. I didn't know if it is supposed to be used with a water based glue (I noticed there is an inscription "2008" on the lower part of the rubber rubber so I thought it is). After that I glued it on my blade with a water based glue and tryed to play. It had no speed at all, it was very, very slow for an attack rubber. Additionaly it's throw angle was very low. After that I tryed it with a classical speed glue. Now I know this is a speed glue rubber (if you don't have the speed glue, you need to use a tuner). It was very very different and much better. It had a good speed, nice spin, lower throw. Speed glue softened the sponge so it's feeling was softer and better. Pretty nice rubber after all but you have to use the old speed glue or any kind of tuning. If you like chinese style rubbers and use proper tuning, you'll like it.

EDIT: You have to use it with a chinese style blade (for example Yasaka Extra Offensive or Avalox P700. I tested both and it was excellent). It didn't work well with european style off carbons for me.

Dec 20, 2011

Globe (1)

Globe 999 National

Speed	8.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	7.0
Weight	8.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	8.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	7.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	8.0

Review of Globe 999 National

Great rubber with a speed glue. Fast and spinny. Consider using this only with a speed glue or tuner.

EDIT: More info - really heavy rubber with high throw angle (around Tenergy 05).

Mar 01, 2013

JOOLA (2)

JOOLA Drum CWX

Speed	7.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	10.0
Control	9.5
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	7.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	10.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	0.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Overall	8.5

Review of JOOLA Drum CWX

I wanted to buy the originall Drum but they accidentally sent me this one. I've decided to keep it and it was a good choice. I was playing with various offensive rubbers before this. After some time with this rubber I've discovered it suits to my style much more. It felt slow for the first time but it's spin and control is great. It's defensive abilities are great too (really superb block and chop). I'd say it's probably an all-round or defensive rubber but if you prefer spin and controll and can handle it's low throw angle, you can use it for crushing attacks very well. I'm not sure about the ratings - this is my 1st here. The values are compared to numerous rubbers I know so I hope it's generally ok.

EDIT: Ratings updated.

Mar 27, 2011

JOOLA Brave

Speed	8.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	8.0
Weight	6.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Overall	8.0

Review of JOOLA Brave

I just wanna say these ratings are not correct.
1) speed rating: it says it is fater than Tenergy 05. It's not true, Tenergy is way faster.
2) tackiness: this rubber is almost untacky.
Conclusion: You can't trust in all the ratings in the database, because there is usually too many people who rank and can't compare rubbers enough to get appropriate rankings.

Dec 22, 2012

Palio (2)

Palio Blitz

Speed	9.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	8.0
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	0.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Consistency	5.0
Overall	9.0

Review of Palio Blitz

This is the rubber I was looking for. Great speed, excellent spin, awesome controll. I was using Rakza 7 before Blitz and I was decided to settle down with that setup but just a few minutes with Blitz changed my mind. Blitz has much softer and more grippy top sheet comparing to Rakza and I can open the game much easier. Rakza's speed and power during an opened game is better but Blitz is very close. It suits my game much better because the moment when I open the game is criticall for me and Blitz brings me more confidence in this phase. I guess that pro players have no problems with strong chop balls like me so Rakza is better for them but Blitz is an excellent rubber for an amateur regional level player like me.

EDIT (08/2012): Durability is good but it isn't somehow long. It's just average. I practice 3-4 times every week for 2-3 hours and after 3 months the rubber condition is just about to throw it into trash. It plays well but there is no rubber which lasts ages if your style is agressive and play almost every day.

Aug 13, 2012

Palio Thors

Speed	8.5
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.5
Control	8.0
Weight	8.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	7.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	8.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	10.0
Overall	9.5

Review of Palio Thors

Amazing tacky rubber! My first impression was "hmm, another rock-hard chinese tacky slow rubber". It is really tacky (can grab a ball very high even after 2 weeks), what means it isn't a bouncy rubber at all. But I was so surprised when I started playing. It's speed is very good, it doesn't feel like a tacky rubber at all. It's sponge is very hard but the top sheet is very elastic/soft, what makes the whole feeling medium. It has medium throw, good controll and great spin. The amount of spin is really awesome. I love this rubber and I recommend it to everyone who plays with DHS Neo rubbers (at least for a try).

EDIT: Best in close to the table looping. Mid distance looping is slightly worse but if you put Thors on an OFF+ blade, this problem can be solved easily. It is great in the short game as well (it's tack helps). I say it again - give it a try if you use DHS Neo rubbers.

Apr 05, 2012

Stiga (2)

Stiga Almana

Speed	9.5
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	8.5
Control	6.0
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	7.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	6.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	9.0

Review of Stiga Almana

Very fast rubber for agressive attackers. I don't recommend it for beginners because of it's lower controll. As a typicall high quality representative of Stiga it has a long durability. A good buy.

Mar 16, 2011

Stiga Boost TX

Speed	9.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	8.5
Control	9.0
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	8.0

Review of Stiga Boost TX

This my backhand rubber atm. I am satisfied with it. I needed to replace Rakza on my bh because of it's higher throw. I wanted to find a fast rubber with lower throw. This rubber should be faster than Almana (from Stiga website product details), but it isn't. It is fast, but it's speed is almost identical to Rakza (additionally I don't feel any extra high catapult effect, it performs linear. You can feel much stronger catapult effect with Rakza). Throw angle is medium-low, exactly what I was looking for. So it is 50/50, I was expecting more speed. I'm keeping it anyway. It has a very good spin, nice controll (it isn't too sensitive to incoming spin comparing to Rakza). The sponge hardness is medium, something around Tenergy. On the other hand not a high speed bomb as Stiga claims. I recommend it to eveyrone for close to the table allround attack-block game. If it was faster... 8/10.

Sorry for double post, I didn't notice I wasn't logged in.

EDIT (December 2011) I'm replaced Boost by Rakza again. Boost is an awesome rubber but it it plays best close to the table. I play more from the mid distance and Rakza is better in that.

Dec 18, 2011

Xiom (1)

Xiom Vega Europe

Speed	8.6
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	8.0
Control	8.5
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	7.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	4.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	3.0
Overall	8.0

Review of Xiom Vega Europe

I was testing this rubber some time ago. It is enough fast, good ball feeling but it has a poor spin comparing to the chinese rubbers. I had big troubles to get the ball over the net from choped strokes. Chinese rubbers (DHS) are the best so far (spin, speed, controll, price. On the other hand chinese need a different technique and more power). This is not a bad rubber but definitelly not that good like some people say.

EDIT October 2011: Ratings updated. I gave one more chance to this rubber and after a few hours with that I must say it is really good rubber. The topsheet isn't tacky but has a decent grip, sponge is medium-soft. From my game experience and observation there are 2 types of rubbers - 1) tacky surface rubbers, generating spin mostly by the topsheet. These rubbers usually use hard sponges. 2) untacky or slightly tacky soft sponge rubbers. These rubbers use the sponge more for generating spin.
Xiom Vega Europe is the 2nd case. It's spin isn't somehow extra high, my rating is 8. Chinese tacky rubbers produce much more spin, no doubt. I'm wondering what would happen if there was a rubber, tacky topsheet and soft sponge. I'd say the result will be the "killer spin" but I don't know... If it worked like that, DHS and more chinese brands would use that. Back to Vega. Not a huge spin, lower speed, nice ball feeling. That window effect is really good but it works only in faster drive/top spin rallyes. If you wanna open the game from a strong chop, it is not easy at all. Ok, it depends on your technique but I still prefer to open the game using my DHS Skyline forehand. The last thing - I don't like the sound, it's strange. Conclusion - great rubber for low to medium skilled all-round players, still developing technique. I don't recommend it for pure attackers or top players.

Oct 20, 2011

Yasaka (2)

Yasaka Rakza 7

Speed	9.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	8.5
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	6.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	5.0
Consistency	10.0
Overall	9.5

Review of Yasaka Rakza 7

My backhand rubber atm. My originall backhand rubber was DHS Skyline 3 Neo and it was good. But I had an injury and wasn't able to play for 3 weeks. After that pause, my Skyline 3 was completelly different. Much slower (it was almost like a def rubber), weird sound. I tryed to reglue it but it didn't help... My forehand Skyline 2 Neo survived that pause well without any problems, really dunno what happened. After that, I started searching some alternatives. Tryed Donic Baracuda, Xiom Vega Europe and Rakza. Rakza is the best of these rubbers for me. It's sponge hardness is medium-soft (if you check the ratings, you can see that DHS Skyline 2 Neo should be softer - 5.1 comp. to Rakza's 5.8. It isn't correct at all, just try to press both rubbers between fingers and you can see Rakza is significantly softer. Another example why you shouldn't believe in the ratings here). It produces decent spin but it isn't a spin monster like Skyline or Tenergy (+- same as Baracuda, much more than Xiom Vega Euro). Speed isn't high, almost the same like Skyline 2 Neo or Baracuda. Controll is good but you can get rubbers with better ball feeling. It performs best in mid distance looping, slightly worse in fast drives and close to the table game. It is a good rubber overally but I think I'll not keep it for a long time.

EDIT (November 2011): I've changed my mind. I'm keeping Rakza, it rocks. Good speed (not extra fast, slightly under Tenergy 05), ideal throw angle, awesome controll and pretty good in looping. Ok, spin is slightly lower comparing to DHS Neo rubbers but you don't need so much effort and power to get a ball over the net from a strong chop. I have Tenergy 05 and Rakza 7 on my blade atm and Rakza dominates in everything. I'll remove Tenergy soon, 2nd sheet of Rakza is on a way to me. I recommend it to everyone who is looking for a Tenergy alternative, it can work better! I'm a proof of that.

EDIT (December 2011): I use this Rakza on my forehand side, replaced it by Stiga Boost TX on my backhand. The reason is simple - it's throw angle was too high for my backhand (lower than Tenergy's anyway). On the other hand if it's throw was higher, it could be a 10/10 rubber for my forehand. It is because I usually play mid distance forehand loops, oftenly fighting with opponent's strong chop. I can handle that but the throw angle for that could be slightly higher for perfection, something between T05 and Rakza. But nothing is perfect, Rakza is an awesome rubber.

EDIT (December 2011): I'm back with Rakza on my backhand. I was thinking about it for a long time and this is better. Rakza's attacking potential is higher and as a both winged looper I need more spin and speed from the mid distance. Boost isn't bad but it is much worse in mid distance looping. It's about a compromise.

EDIT (Feb 2012): My forehand Rakza didn't last longer than 3 months. It is an awesome rubber but it doesn't last ages if your style is agressive.

EDIT (Feb 2012): After many test I've finally stabilized my setup. Rakza is the best offensive rubber I've ever played with. Using both rubbers in max thickness atm but I'll buy the 2.0 version on my bh next time. Many people prefer Tenergy but I don't. Rakza is better in everything from my point of view.

Feb 21, 2012

Yasaka Rakza 7 Soft

Speed	8.0
Spin $<b>Spin</b> is the amount of ball rotation generated by the rubber. This is affected by the rubber\'s tackiness, sponge thickness, sponge hardness as well as the blade\'s flexibility.$	9.0
Control	9.0
Weight	4.0
Gears $<b>Gears</b> refers to a rubber\'s ability to produce a wide range of speeds. A rubber with a wide range of speeds (many gears) can produce slow speeds (on gentle strokes) and high speeds (on hard strokes). With few gears, you may always produce fairly slow balls, or always produce fairly fast balls on lighter and harder strokes.$	10.0

Tackiness $<b>Tackiness</b> refers to the level of stickiness of the rubber surface. Traditional Chinese rubbers are usually tacky enough to lift a ball off the table by pressing the rubber on top of the ball, whereas traditional European and Japanese rubbers do not.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Very tacky</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Tacky</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium tacky</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Slightly tacky</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Completely non-tacky</td></tr></table>$	2.0
Throw Angle $<b>Throw Angle</b> is the angle that the ball is projected from strokes like the loop. Assuming the loop stroke is the same, a high throw angle will lift the ball higher. Tacky rubbers often have a higher throw angle.<br><table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td></tr><tr><td>9+</td><td>Very high</td></tr><tr><td>7 - 9</td><td>High</td></tr><tr><td>5.5 - 7</td><td>Medium-high</td></tr><tr><td>3.5 - 5.5</td><td>Medium</td></tr><tr><td>1.5 - 3.5</td><td>Medium-low</td></tr><tr><td>Under 1.5</td><td>Low</td></tr></table>$	6.0
Sponge Hardness $<b>Sponge Hardness</b> refers to the density of the sponge. This is measured in degrees:<table class=\'smalldata\'><tr class=\'head\'><td>Rating</td><td>Description</td><td>Degrees</td></tr><tr><td>8+</td><td>Hard</td><td>45+ degrees</td></tr><tr><td>6 - 8</td><td>Medium Hard</td><td>43-44 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>4 - 6</td><td>Medium</td><td>41-42 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>2 - 4</td><td>Medium Soft</td><td>38-40 degrees</td></tr><tr><td>Under 2</td><td>Soft</td><td>under 37 degrees</td></tr></table>$	3.0
Overall	9.0

Review of Yasaka Rakza 7 Soft

Plays simillar to Rakza. Differences I found: less speed, higher throw angle, different sound, softer feel, more controll. Spin is the same - high. I switched from normal Rakza to the soft version because I wanted more controll on blocks. It works very well, exactly what I was expecting. Still very good in attacking but much more controll in passive strokes (block and so on). Awesome rubber, highly recommened for those who think the normal Rakza is too fast.

Feb 01, 2012

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