Butterfly Peter Korbel Japan Version

Review Text:

Butterfly Timo Boll ALC Blade:

• Best blade I have played with so far.
• Excellent control, with good spin and speed.
• Paired with Yasaka Mark V 2.0, it creates a top-notch combination.
• Provides great feel and touch, allowing for exceptional topspins and effective blocking capabilities.
• The Japanese model exhibits superior craftsmanship and is compatible with a wide range of rubbers, particularly soft to medium rubbers.
• A classic all-wood rubber, it has been a favorite of mine for many years.
• After using the Butterfly A. Grubba, I upgraded to the Peter Korbel but believe this blade surpasses both in terms of feel and spin generation.

Review:
Simply stunning. The Made in Japan version of Butterfly 5-ply all-wood Korbel is a must-buy, unlike the European version. Its speed is exceptional and controllable, but it’s the sublime feeling that sets this blade apart. You accurately sense your shots, playing them with the desired speed and spin. I use Big Dipper on my forehand and Moon 12 Blue on my backhand. For UK residents, Nishoshi offers the best deal on this blade.

I am glad to see there is finally a separate Japanese version of this blade for reviews. During my time in table tennis, I have tried the following blades: BTY Korbel Japan, BTY Timo Boll ALC, and Yasaka Ma Lin Extra Offensive. Although I cannot compare it to the Euro Korbel, I can compare it to the YEO mentioned above. The Korbel Japan seems to be more like an OFF- blade.

I paired my Japanese Korbel with Xiom Sigma II EU rubbers. This combination is quite fast and not suitable for beginners, but it allows for amazing looping. The blade itself is of great quality, but the sweet spot is not as large compared to the ALC or YEO (although the YEO is well-known for its larger sweet spot). It is also a bit heavier. From my experience, it would be best to pair it with Yasaka Rakza 7 or BTY Rozena rubbers.

Years ago, I chose the YEO as my main racket, and I am currently transitioning to the TB ALC. However, I still have my Korbel and occasionally use it for training or playing against less experienced players. I am still amazed by how good it feels. I believe it is suitable for a wide range of players, from beginners to professionals. The choice of rubbers will greatly affect the performance of the blade. The blade itself is nearly perfect, and I intend to keep it.

Simply a great blade. The Euro version is nowhere near the level of the JP version. The JP version is an upgrade on every department by 30%. It also sounds better on every shot.