Yinhe 970 XX-K

90.5 g. The build quality and finish are good; the blade seems sealed out of the box. But the edges are sharp (which was a surprise) and need to be sanded off. The handle is not very big and feels slim, and may feel small for bigger hands. In terms of quality, that of Yinhe Pro 05 is higher (better handle, smooth edges).

Rubbers: Bloom Power 47° & 45°.

First impressions: With these rubbers, I needed to swing quite hard and fast to hit through the 47° sponge. I engage the 45° sponge more easily, but still would expect more speed from the blade given the effort that goes into shots. For now, it is going to be a training blade for me. To train faster strokes and whip-like motion.

Other particularities: The blade provides quite good feedback through sound and vibration. (I do not appreciate the vibration, though.) Control is good. The blade feels light enough to allow producing faster strokes. But it does not instill a sense of immediately available power.

Initial conclusions: I have a feeling the blade will work better with hybrid rubbers, and is not so easy with classic tacky rubbers. And I do not feel I prefer this one to Yinhe Pro 05 despite the latter being a “provincial” level blade, and 970 XXK kind of professional level. (Okay, I need to improve myself first to unlock its professional capabilities, that is true. But for now, I stay with Pro 05.)

Great blade, flexible, perfect for rotation. With medium rigid rubber, it allows you to play varied, powerful control!

It’s an… ok OFF- blade, kind of « baby Viscaria » as it is the same feel but way slower, and with way more control. It’s really not that fast, paired with H3Ns you’ll have to really work to get powerful attacks, even with boosted tacky rubbers, it’s an ideal blade for young players and developing ones who play an offensive/aggressive style though.

This blade is characterized by its flexibility. It pairs well with hard rubber, such as Hurricane on the forehand and ESN rubber on the backhand. The blade produces minimal vibration, offers a medium dwell time, and provides a crisp hitting sensation.

5+2 Kevlar-carbon…