Tibhar 5Q Sound

Rubber description:

Tibhar 5Q Sound is an advanced table tennis rubber known for its excellent combination of spin, speed, and control, making it a favorite among players looking for precision in their game. With impressive ratings for speed (107), spin (95), and control (117), it strikes a balance that suits various playing styles, especially in the backhand. The rubber features a soft sponge (1.5 hardness), providing a unique touch and feel that enhances playability, particularly for those who prefer a softer touch on their strokes.

In terms of tackiness, the rubber has a slightly tacky surface (1.6), which aids in generating significant spin on serves and loops. This quality translates well in the short game, allowing for excellent push and service returns, while the high throw angle enhances the effectiveness of backhand loops, providing dramatic arcs that complicate the opponent’s return. Despite its strengths, players should note that the rubber can exhibit some non-linear behavior at high speeds, requiring practice to master its dynamics fully.

Weighing in at a light 3.7 grams, Tibhar 5Q Sound boasts remarkable durability (8.4), ensuring longevity even with regular use. Its performance is further enhanced when used with new plastic balls, as the rubber’s softness and grip come alive, producing consistent and controlled shots. For players seeking alternatives, similar options include the Butterfly Tenergy 05-FX and Andro Rasant Power Sponge, though reviews consistently highlight Tibhar 5Q Sound’s unique ability to generate spin and its overall playability, solidifying its reputation in the table tennis community.

Recent Reviews

#1 — July 2015

Review: Tibhar 5Q Sound Power-Upgrade Version

Blade: Andro Temper Tech All+ (Backhand)

Break-In Time:

This rubber has a “break-in time” of approximately 6-10 hours of play. Initially, it feels fast and uncontrollable, but after several training sessions, it becomes more manageable.

Pros:

  • Medium throw
  • Good grip
  • Medium soft sponge
  • Ample speed and exceptional spin
  • High control
  • Lightweight

Performance:

  • Precise topspin placement
  • Effective flat hits
  • Improved performance with plastic balls due to increased softness and grip

Cons:

  • Sensitive to incoming spin, especially after the break-in
  • Less forgiving for blocking and underspin touch play compared to some other rubbers

Overall:

After the break-in period, this rubber offers excellent performance and versatility. It is suitable for a wide range of playing styles, including All+, Off-, and even Off-. While it may not be the ideal choice for aggressive attackers seeking maximum speed, it provides ample power and precision for most players.

#2 — July 2014

Not sure of its characteristics, but I must say this was the best surprise I have had this year in a backhand rubber.

It has a lot of gears. You can chop with ease, you can drive, smash…

I tried to use it as FH and didn’t like it, but as BH, it’s just perfect for my game.

I think it’s suitable for an ALL+/OFF- play style.

#3 — June 2014

A great rubber that fits well on the backhand (BH) side, but can also be used on the forehand (FH) if you prefer soft sponges.

Historically, I have favored soft sponges on my BH, but most current-generation tensors have medium-soft sponges (42.5 degrees or above). 5QS is softer than these, resembling the Acuda S3 of the past. The significant advantage of 5QS is its spin and how it is delivered.

Despite being a soft, elastic rubber, 5QS is surprisingly well-behaved in the short game. Pushing and service returns are excellent. It also allows for easy variation of spin on your own serves, rewarding fast wrist movements.

On harder shots, the throw angle becomes quite high, similar to T05-FX. This makes it an exceptional BH looping rubber, as the high throw and spin can produce impressive results.

However, it exhibits some non-linearity, meaning it can feel unpredictable at high speeds. While it generally blocks well, it can surprisingly spit the ball out high when the incoming ball is very fast or spinny. T05-FX also experiences this issue, but 5QS is easier to predict. Additionally, flat hitters may not appreciate the jumpy feeling of 5QS when using high arm speed.

Overall, the positives outweigh the negatives, and it just takes some time and practice to understand the rubber’s nature.

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