Weight
75g
Thickness
8mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
156x153
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Balsa 6.5 OFF
TSP Balsa 6.5 OFF is a dynamic offensive blade built for players who want speed without sacrificing control. Its defining feature is a 6.5mm balsa wood core, known for being lightweight and dampening vibration, paired with fiberglass layers. This construction creates a lively feel, a forgiving sweet spot, and significant penetrating power, making it ideal for fast, aggressive rallies where precision still matters.
The blade features a 6.5mm balsa wood core, which is sandwiched between two layers of fiberglass and two outer wood plies. This construction is designed to provide a lightweight feel with enhanced speed and a larger sweet spot, while the balsa core contributes to good dwell time and a unique playing sensation.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
The 6.5mm balsa core combined with fiberglass layers generates significant speed, designed for offensive players seeking penetrating shots. It delivers high speed on impact, excelling in drives and smashes. While some players note the speed isn't perfectly linear, it provides the explosive power needed for fast rallies.
Despite its offensive nature, this blade is frequently praised for excellent control. The balsa core's natural vibration dampening and the fiberglass layers create a larger, more forgiving sweet spot. This allows for precise ball placement and controlled play, even during aggressive exchanges.
The balsa core provides a distinct, slightly softer and springier feel compared to traditional wood blades. It offers good dwell time, letting the ball sink in for spin generation. Some players note a reduction in feedback on very hard hits, while others enjoy the unique balsa sensation.
The balsa and fiberglass combination tends to produce a medium to medium-high throw angle. This is advantageous for generating heavy topspin and clearing the net with power, especially on offensive loops and drives.
The characteristics of the balsa core, aided by the fiberglass, increase dwell time. This allows players to impart more spin on the ball, which is particularly beneficial during controlled shots, serves, and spin-oriented play.
The blade offers moderate flexibility. The balsa core can provide some flex, but the fiberglass and outer plies contribute to a relatively direct and stable feel, which is well-suited for consistent offensive play.
Balsa wood is naturally good at dampening vibration. While the fiberglass adds some structure, the overall vibration level is moderate to low, contributing to a comfortable playing experience and that expanded sweet spot.
Constructed with lightweight balsa integrated with fiberglass and wood plies for durability, the blade offers good quality for its price. Players generally report solid craftsmanship and a satisfying feel, with older versions also noted for their reliable build.
Technology
TSP Balsa 6.5 OFF centers its technology on a distinctive 6.5mm balsa wood core. This core is enhanced with fiberglass veneers placed between the balsa and the outer wood plies. This design aims to create a larger sweet spot for more forgiveness on off-center hits while boosting the blade's overall speed and power. By leveraging balsa's natural lightness and vibration-dampening qualities, the blade achieves a unique feel and excellent control within an offensive framework, resulting in a lively and aggressive playing experience.
Similar Blades
Victas Black Balsa 7.0
Players often compare the TSP Balsa 6.5 OFF to the Victas Black Balsa 7.0. Both are balsa core blades aiming for a lightweight offensive feel. The 7.0 version is perceived to have slightly different characteristics, with some discussions focusing on its suitability for looping versus flat hitting compared to the 6.5.
Tibhar Balsa Fibretec 75
In discussions about balsa blades, the Tibhar Balsa Fibretec 75 is mentioned as a potential alternative. Both blades are categorized as offensive and utilize balsa wood, suggesting shared traits of lightness and a focus on speed, though the specific feel and performance nuances are likely different.