Weight
92g
Thickness
5.7mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
156x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Galaxy Yinhe 970 XX-A
Yinhe Galaxy 970 XX-A is a hybrid offensive blade designed for players who demand a balance of speed, control, and spin. Its 5+2 ply construction with inner Arylate Carbon layers creates a unique feel, blending the directness of carbon with the dwell time and feedback of wood. This blade excels in aggressive looping and fast attack play, providing a stable platform for powerful shots while maintaining exceptional control for the short game. It delivers consistent, predictable performance, making it a valuable tool for intermediate to advanced players looking to elevate their offensive capabilities.
This 5+2 construction features inner Arylate Carbon layers sandwiched between wood plies. This design is intended to provide a softer, more controlled feel close to the table while still offering the speed and stiffness characteristic of carbon composites when more power is applied, creating a balance between dwell time and directness.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Yinhe 970 XX-A is a fast offensive blade. The combination of wood and inner Arylate Carbon allows for powerful strokes, making it suitable for players who like to attack with speed and drive. Our testing shows it offers a good balance for aggressive play, providing ample power while maintaining a connection that feels more controlled than some outer carbon constructions.
Despite its speed, the blade offers a high level of control. The inner ALC placement and the wood layers contribute to excellent feel and feedback, making it easier to manage short balls, execute serves, and maintain consistency during rallies. This high control rating makes it approachable and confidence-inspiring for players developing their offensive game.
The blade offers a unique feel described as having a strong wooden character combined with a crispness from the inner carbon layers. It's not as stiff or muted as some outer carbon blades, providing a good connection with the ball and allowing for sensitive control, especially when playing close to the table.
Players report a high throw angle, which is beneficial for clearing the net with heavy topspin shots and for looping over an opponent's block. This high trajectory allows for aggressive play with a good safety margin over the net.
The blade provides a good amount of dwell time, allowing players to impart significant spin on the ball. This is beneficial for looping and heavy topspin shots, as the ball sinks into the blade more, enabling better spin generation compared to some stiffer carbon blades.
The blade has a medium stiffness, offering a good balance between being flexible enough for spin-oriented shots and stiff enough for powerful drives and smashes. This flexibility allows for effective ball pocketing during strokes.
Vibration is generally considered moderate. The inner ALC and wood construction help to filter out excessive harsh vibrations, providing a comfortable playing experience without sacrificing too much tactile feedback on contact.
Users generally report good build quality for the price, with solid construction and finishes. While it may not reach the premium feel of top-tier brands, TTSensei experts note it is a well-made blade that offers excellent value for money, providing reliable performance without a high cost.
Technology
Yinhe Galaxy 970 XX-A features an inner Arylate Carbon (ALC) construction. This technology places the ALC composite layers closer to the core, sandwiched between wood plies. This specific placement aims to dampen the harshness typically associated with carbon, providing a softer feel and increased dwell time akin to traditional wood blades when playing close to the table. Simultaneously, the ALC layers contribute to increased speed, stiffness, and a larger sweet spot when more force is applied, facilitating powerful looping and attacking shots. The 5 wood plies provide the fundamental feel and control, while the 2 inner ALC layers enhance the performance characteristics.
Pro Players Using This Blade
DPR Korea National Table Tennis Team
Yinhe 970 XX-A is officially used by members of the D.P.R Korea National Table Tennis Team. This endorsement suggests the blade meets the performance standards required for professional play, offering a blend of speed, control, and spin suitable for top-level competition, particularly for players who favor an aggressive, looping-oriented game.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC.S
Players often compare Yinhe 970 XX-A to the Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC.S, noting similarities in its inner carbon construction and feel. Both blades aim to provide a controlled offensive game with good dwell time and spin, making them suitable for players who prefer a softer touch while still desiring offensive capabilities. TTSensei experts note the Yinhe is often considered a more budget-friendly alternative offering comparable performance characteristics.
Victas ZX Gear Inner
Yinhe 970 XX-A has also been compared to the Victas ZX Gear Inner. While the Victas blade is described as having slightly more dwell time, our analysis suggests the Yinhe 970 XX-A is perceived as faster with slightly less spin but better control in some comparisons. Both blades feature inner composite layers and are designed for offensive play with good control and feel.