Weight
88g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x150
Handles
FL
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Vario+ AC
Osp Vario+ AC is a unique 7-ply hybrid blade designed for offensive players who want distinct characteristics on each wing. It features an asymmetric construction with Koto and Aramid Carbon on the forehand for a direct, fast OFF+ feel, and Limba with inner Aramid Carbon on the backhand for a softer, more controlled OFF speed. This design allows for significant tactical variation, enabling players to maximize spin, power, and placement with different rubbers. Crafted in Hungary with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail, it offers a crisp feel and refined performance for advanced attackers seeking a competitive edge.
The blade uses a 7-ply construction with a distinct asymmetric design. The forehand side features a Koto outer ply with an Aramid Carbon layer immediately beneath for direct touch and high speed. The backhand side uses a Limba outer ply with an Aramid Carbon layer positioned deeper within the core for a softer feel and controlled speed. A Samba wood core sits at the center. This specific layering is engineered to create differentiated playing characteristics on each side of the blade.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Vario+ AC is built for offensive play, with its hybrid construction and Aramid Carbon layers delivering high speed. The forehand side, with carbon just under the Koto outer ply, offers direct, explosive power for fast attacks. The backhand side provides significant offensive speed as well, though with a slightly softer character. Players report it delivers speed comparable to top-tier offensive blades, making it highly effective for aggressive, attacking styles.
Despite its offensive nature, Vario+ AC offers exceptional control. The asymmetric design and careful placement of the Aramid Carbon layers help maintain a manageable, predictable feel even during powerful shots. The Limba outer ply on the backhand side enhances touch and precision, allowing for varied play and accurate placement. This balance makes it suitable for players who rely on both power and strategic finesse.
Vario+ AC provides a crisp, communicative feel. The forehand side feels harder and more direct due to the Koto outer ply and closely positioned carbon, while the backhand side with Limba and deeper carbon offers a slightly softer, more elastic sensation. This blend avoids the overly stiff or numb feel sometimes associated with composite blades, delivering good feedback on ball contact.
Throw angle varies slightly between sides. The forehand side, optimized for direct power, produces a medium-high trajectory ideal for powerful loops. The backhand side, designed for control and variation, may offer a slightly lower or more adaptable throw, allowing for greater adjustment in shot execution and placement.
The blade offers very good dwell time for an offensive model. The wood layers and integrated Aramid Carbon allow the ball to sink in sufficiently for effective spin generation. The backhand side, with its Limba top and inner carbon, provides a slightly longer dwell, enhancing spin on loops and controlled shots, while the forehand remains optimized for direct power.
It strikes a balance between stiffness and flexibility. The hybrid construction with Aramid Carbon provides the stiffness needed for powerful attacks, especially on the forehand. However, the wood plies and asymmetric design prevent it from being overly rigid, allowing some flex that aids spin generation and control, particularly on the backhand side.
Vibration is moderate, providing clear feedback without being harsh or distracting. The Aramid Carbon layers help dampen excessive vibrations while still transmitting enough sensation for precise shot execution. This balanced feedback allows players to feel ball contact and make subtle adjustments during play.
OSP blades are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, and Vario+ AC exemplifies this with premium quality. The finish is flawless, materials are hand-selected, and construction is precise, resulting in a durable and aesthetically pleasing blade. Our experts note the attention to detail ensures consistent, high-level performance, justifying its reputation as a top-tier product.
Technology
Vario+ AC embodies OSP's philosophy of blending traditional craftsmanship with advanced materials. The 'AC' denotes Aramid Carbon, a composite known for strength, vibration dampening, and enhanced speed and spin. Its core innovation is an asymmetric construction, with Aramid Carbon strategically placed at different depths relative to the outer plies—close to Koto on the forehand and deeper under Limba on the backhand. This design creates distinct offensive characteristics on each side, a concept refined through OSP's experience in custom blade making to meet modern demands, particularly with poly balls, offering players tailored performance and tactical depth.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Viscaria
Vario+ AC is often compared to the Butterfly Viscaria. Both are hybrid blades featuring carbon layers and offering high speed and spin. The Viscaria uses a classic ALC construction, while Vario+ AC employs Aramid Carbon in an asymmetric design. Many players find Vario+ AC provides a more controllable experience while maintaining similar speed and performance levels, making it a compelling alternative.
Stiga Inspira CCF
Some players note the Stiga Inspira CCF has a similar inner carbon and Koto outer construction. However, our testing shows Vario+ AC offers a superior blend of speed and control within this category, providing a more refined and manageable feel for players seeking high performance without sacrificing touch.