Weight
89g
Plies
7-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Yinhe Earth E-1 VB
Yinhe Earth E-1 VB is a 7-ply offensive hybrid blade built around Vacuum Baked (VB) technology. This process treats the core wood to enhance control and feel, creating a crisp, medium-hard blade ideal for aggressive loopers and drivers. It delivers a compelling balance of speed for attacking play and excellent feedback for precise shot-making. Offering consistent performance and solid build quality, it represents strong value for intermediate to advanced players seeking a reliable offensive tool without a premium price tag.
The blade uses a 7-ply construction. Based on player reports and the standard Earth E-1 build, it features a core of Ayous wood, flanked by layers of Spruce and outer plies of Koto. The 'Hybrid' designation and Vacuum Baked technology involve the integration of two fiber layers (commonly reported as glass or carbon fiber) within this stack. This combination aims to provide stiffness and speed from the fibers while the treated wood core enhances control.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Earth E-1 VB delivers solid offensive speed, rated around 7.5. The Vacuum Baked core and hybrid construction provide a quicker response than traditional wood blades, making it effective for attacking loops and drives. It generates enough pace for decisive shots in the mid-distance, though players report it may not be the fastest option for far-back power rallies. This speed level is well-suited for players who want an attacking blade that remains manageable.
Control is where this blade truly shines, earning an 8.5 rating. The Vacuum Baked treatment significantly enhances stability and ball feedback, giving players high confidence in placement. You get a predictable, consistent response on blocks, drives, and spin-oriented shots. This level of control is somewhat unexpected for a blade with its offensive speed, making it a favorite for players who prioritize precision in their attacking game.
The blade provides a crisp, direct, and medium-hard feel on impact. The Vacuum Baked treatment and fiber layers create a stiffer sensation than all-wood blades, offering clear, immediate feedback. This tactile response is beneficial for players who rely on feel to gauge their shots, providing good information for stroke adjustment.
Earth E-1 VB produces a medium-high throw angle, which is excellent for offensive play. This trajectory helps the ball clear the net with a good arc, making it particularly effective for heavy topspin loops and aggressive opening shots. It encourages an attacking, spin-focused style.
Dwell time is quite good for a hybrid offensive blade, rated at 7. Despite its stiffer construction, it maintains sufficient contact time to generate effective spin on loops and serves. This balance means you don't have to sacrifice spin potential for the added speed, making it versatile for spin-oriented attacks.
Flexibility is moderate, scoring a 5. The 7-ply hybrid build lends a stiffer character, which is ideal for generating direct power and quick rebounds. It's not a highly flexible blade, favoring a solid, stable feel that supports powerful drives and fast counter-hits over a pronounced catapult effect.
Vibration is moderate, rated a 6. The hybrid construction and VB process help manage shock, resulting in a balanced feel that isn't overly harsh or muted. This level of vibration provides enough feedback to sense the shot without being distracting, contributing to the blade's overall controlled character.
Build quality is very good for the price point, scoring a 7.5. Yinhe delivers solid craftsmanship with well-sanded edges and a consistent finish. While it doesn't have the premium materials or flawless fit of high-end blades, it offers excellent durability and reliable construction. Players appreciate the value, getting performance that often exceeds expectations for its category.
Technology
The core technology is the Vacuum Baked (VB) treatment applied to the blade's wood core. This proprietary Yinhe process involves baking the wood in an airless oven, which the brand states significantly enhances control, stability, and overall feel. Combined with the integration of fiber layers into its 7-ply construction, this creates a hybrid blade that aims to deliver the speed of composites with the superior touch and feedback associated with treated wood. The result is a balanced offensive tool designed for players who value control in their attacking game.
Similar Blades
Yinhe Earth E-1 (non-VB)
The standard Earth E-1 is the most direct comparison. Our testing shows the VB version explicitly offers more control and a slightly dampened feel due to the vacuum baking process. The non-VB E-1 provides a rawer, potentially more direct offensive sensation with slightly less inherent stability, appealing to players who want a more traditional hybrid feel.
Andro Temper Tech ALL+
Players report familiar characteristics between the Earth E-1 VB and the Andro Temper Tech ALL+. Both blades offer a balanced hybrid feel with good control for offensive play. The Yinhe option is often seen as a more budget-conscious alternative that delivers a similar performance profile, making it a compelling value-based substitute.