The DHS Gold Arc 5 is an impressive table tennis rubber that strikes a balance between control and performance, making it a versatile option for players of varying skill levels. This rubber is recognized for its exceptional control, rated at 10, which allows players to place their shots with pinpoint accuracy. It features a medium hardness sponge of 42.5 and 47.5 degrees, providing a firm feel that enhances both touch and feedback during play. Although it is not classified as a tensor rubber, users report that it performs similarly, offering a nice blend of speed and spin.
In terms of tackiness, the Gold Arc 5 has a lower tackiness rating of 2.3, making it less sticky than traditional Chinese rubbers while still capable of generating a solid amount of spin on serves and topspins. The overall weight classification is medium, often noted for its manageable feel on the racket. The durability of this rubber is another attractive feature, rated at 7.2, which ensures longevity under regular use without compromising performance.
While the Gold Arc 5 has strong advocates, players seeking alternatives might consider similar options like the Yasaka Rakza 7 or the Donic Bluefire line, both of which offer different characteristics in spin and speed. Many reviews highlight the Gold Arc 5’s suitability for various playing styles, particularly for those who value control and placement over sheer speed. Players suggest this rubber as a perfect companion for their backhand, given its reliable blocking and looping abilities, making it a great choice for those looking to refine their game.
A few days ago, I happened to play this rubber again. It’s really not sticky and is available with 42.5 and 47.5-degree sponge.
Before I played with Dignics 09c and Nittaku Fastarc G-1, I had the 47.5-degree version in max for half a year on my Stuor Nobilis ZLC Hinoki blade. (96g packed, uncut 71g., 51g. by 157 x 150 mm.)
The 47.5-degree version generates significantly more spin than the 42.5-degree version. It is a bit faster but has the same excellent control (- on the same wood, same thickness.) Both versions are not particularly bouncy and in this respect are reminiscent of a Dignics 09c (- especially in the short game.)
To generate spin is very easy, and incoming spin is not a problem. Flat hitting is the parade discipline of this rubber.
My ratings for the 47.5-degree version: Speed: 9.0, Spin 9.4, and Control 9.5. In my opinion, the ratings in the table refer to the 42.5-degree version (- just like mine from 2019.)
For comparison: the Nittaku Fastarc G-1 (also 47.5 degrees in max.) has a little less speed, more spin, less control, and less weight. Btfy. Dignics 09c has more spin, less speed, but has more catapult on balls hit frontally!!! The control is also excellent, with weight like G-1.
In 2019, I reviewed the 42.5-degree versions: black, med. thick, packed 89g, uncut 62g. Additionally: black and red, max., both 91g. packed and 64g. uncut. Attention: the red top sheet is softer!!! This version is not the fastest but has good spin properties. It has never been so easy for me to hit with a rubber!!!
Conclusion: Excellent rubber with the absolutely best price-performance ratio that I have ever experienced with a rubber. Buy, test, and love it!!.
I believe rating this rubber 7/10 is fair. Our club received a few of these to try out, so I can give an informed review.
I have max 42-degree rubber on my backhand. This rubber is not spin-sensitive like many soft rubbers, but it does not provide enough spin for most competitive players. I enjoyed blocking and punching close to the table, but that is about it. My training partners could counter much easier, as the ball was “very easy and predictable.”
It does not have many gears, but that may make it good for building technical skill and accuracy. The durability is average, and the quality control is very good.
I found this rubber for only 20 dollars, so it was really worth it. It is a good rubber, mainly focused on control.
I heard many people say that it is slow. I didn’t think it was. Perhaps because I was using a very fast blade - Fang Bo B2x.
Its spin capability is very satisfying, but this rubber is very susceptible to moisture. Where my table is placed is very humid, so when the ball bounces on the floor and I use it without cleaning again, the rubber loses totally its spin capability. But this is simple to solve: Just clean the ball and the topsheet well and its spin is very good.
Its best point is the control which would be perfect if it weren’t for the hard topsheet. For me, this is the only problem of this rubber. It feels way harder than it is, which, in my opinion, makes blocks more difficult and makes it a little bit more spin sensitive.
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