Tibhar 5Q Sound

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.

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.

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.

Fantastic spin provides excellent control, making it easy to play and durable, which ensures longevity.

I use this rubber on my forehand. Firstly, the rubber is 69g uncut, and when I put it on my blade, it is 45g, which is pleasantly light. From the Tibhar set, the rubber is classified as medium soft (with a soft sponge), but I would describe it as genuinely soft.

The surface is very soft, making this rubber feel one-of-a-kind. It has a slightly tacky surface. This rubber has a remarkable spin and can grip the ball exceptionally well and easily. It is likely the best spin rubber I have ever encountered. Perhaps the surface on Andro Rasant Powersponge produces the same or more spin, but overall, 5q Sound grips and holds the ball flawlessly.

For the first few hours, it was genuinely unusual to play with Tibhar 5q Sound. The 5q is consistent. You just need time to adapt to this rubber. Now, I am delighted with my choice.

I am using RED Colour MAX Thickness. The rubber is lighter and softer than others, producing a higher arc and more spin. It has high tension like Rakza rubber but is not a tensor. I have had difficulties adjusting to the lower speed and bigger swing required with tensors, so this rubber is a better option for me.

This rubber requires some work with technique in blocking due to the higher throw angle, but it does react to spin and generates more on its own, making counter-looping much better. Simply pushing returns the opponent’s spin back, especially on chopping rallies, so adjusting to the power can be surprising.

Despite its spin capabilities, you don’t lose out on speed. The spin on this rubber is exceptional, and a chop rally or a serve with this rubber will give your opponent trouble. Smashing with it will create a distinct sound like popping a bottle of champagne. Overall, this rubber is consistent and performs well.

Got it a week ago from a retailer in Europe. If there is a near-perfect rubber, this is the one. Outstanding, incredible spin, very fast, nice touch with incredible feel. If this was a Butterfly rubber, it would cost over $100.00 dollars. Butterfly has nothing like it, or any other brand. Blew me away!!!