Weight
85g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
156x156
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Fibercomp DEF
Andro Fibercomp DEF is a specialized defensive blade engineered for players who prioritize exceptional control and spin reversal. Its unique hybrid construction combines a lightweight balsa core with two layers of glass fiber, delivering a medium-hard feel with excellent ball feedback. This design excels at producing disruptive blocks and 'flutter balls,' especially when paired with long pimple rubbers. While built for defense, the glass fiber layers provide enough stiffness for swift offensive transitions. The large sweet spot and inherent stability make it a forgiving and confidence-inspiring choice for chop and block strategies.
This 7-ply construction uses a 5+2 design featuring five wood plies with a central balsa core for lightness and feel, sandwiched between two glass fiber layers for added stiffness, power, and a larger sweet spot. The hybrid construction balances defensive control with offensive capabilities.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Andro Fibercomp DEF offers a speed rating of 7.4, which is on the higher side for a defensive blade. It provides enough pace for controlled offensive shots and surprising counter-attacks, allowing for a more dynamic game. Players report it feels faster than many other defensive blades, yet it remains manageable for precise defensive play.
Control is the paramount characteristic of the Fibercomp DEF, consistently rated at the highest levels. This exceptional control is crucial for defensive players who rely on precise placement, spin reversal, and consistent blocking. The blade's design minimizes errors, making it a reliable tool for executing complex defensive strategies with confidence.
Andro Fibercomp DEF delivers a medium to medium-hard feel, with a notable absence of the overly soft 'balsa feel' some players dislike. The glass fiber layers add stiffness, while the balsa core provides good ball feedback. This balance allows for sensitive control during defense and a solid impact for offensive strokes.
The combination of a controlled defensive blade with offensive capacity suggests a medium to medium-high throw angle. This allows for effective spin generation on topspin shots and sufficient trajectory for deep chops, while also enabling aggressive counter-attacks.
The blade offers good dwell time, which is beneficial for players using long pimples to generate spin and achieve effective spin reversal. This allows the ball to sink into the rubber, imparting significant spin on defensive shots. For aggressive looping, this longer dwell may require a slight technique adjustment.
The flexibility is generally perceived as medium to medium-stiff. The glass fiber layers provide added stiffness, which helps generate power for offensive shots and maintains stability during blocking. This level is well-suited for controlled defense and transitional attacking, though some players might prefer a softer feel.
Andro Fibercomp DEF provides a balanced level of vibration. It transmits sufficient ball feedback to the player, which is crucial for control and touch shots, without being excessively harsh. The balsa core and glass fiber construction offer a comfortable vibration profile ideal for defensive play.
Andro Fibercomp DEF is generally regarded as a well-built blade, especially considering its price point. Players report good durability, with some noting blades lasting nearly a year without issues. The materials and construction contribute to a solid feel and reliable performance over time, offering excellent value.
Technology
Andro Fibercomp DEF employs a 'Balsa-fiberglass composite defensive technology.' This construction uses a balsa wood core for lightweight properties and excellent ball feedback, providing a sensitive feel without being overly soft. The core is reinforced by two layers of glass fiber, which add stiffness, increase the sweet spot size, and enhance power and spin reversal capabilities, particularly for defensive strokes. This hybrid approach allows for seamless transitions from defense to controlled offense.
Similar Blades
Donic Defplay Senso
Donic Defplay Senso is a great alternative for defensive players seeking good control and a softer feel, which can be beneficial for chopping and blocking. It shares a similar defensive philosophy and is often compared for its forgiving nature and touch.
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk is a well-regarded defensive blade that also features a balsa core, offering a soft feel and excellent control. Players looking for a classic defensive experience might consider it, though its performance characteristics differ due to its unique all-wood construction.