Stradivarius

Weight

85g

Thickness

5.7mm

Plies

7-ply

Head Size

157x150

Handles

FL / ST

Material

Hybrid

Head Shape

Standard

Balance

Balanced

Xiom

Stradivarius

China
2005

Xiom Stradivarius is a premium offensive blade engineered for aggressive players who demand a potent mix of power, spin, and control. Its sophisticated 5+2 ply construction integrates Aramid Carbon layers to boost elasticity and dampen vibration, delivering a sharp, stable feel. This design excels at generating heavy spin on powerful topspin attacks from close to mid-distance, offering a direct connection with the ball and minimal uncomfortable feedback. A refined iteration of a classic, the Stradivarius is a secure and formidable weapon for players who rely on consistent, high-pressure offensive play in the modern game.

7-Ply Construction

The blade features a 5+2 ply construction, with two Aramid Carbon layers positioned directly beneath the outer wood veneers. This configuration aims to provide the speed and stiffness of carbon while the Aramid fibers absorb vibrations, offering a sharp feel with reduced jarring feedback. The outer wood layers contribute to the blade's overall feel and spin-generating capabilities.

TT Sensei Ratings

Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics

Speed
9.0

Xiom Stralevarius is consistently described as a very fast blade, a characteristic driven by its outer Aramid Carbon layers. This speed translates into powerful shots, making it ideal for offensive and aggressive play styles. You'll feel the acceleration most in drives, smashes, and forceful counter-attacks, particularly from close to mid-distance, giving you a decisive advantage in attacking rallies.

Control
8.5

Despite its high speed, Stradivarius offers a commendable level of control, largely thanks to the vibration-dampening properties of the Aramid Carbon. This allows for precise ball placement, stable blocking, and effective short game play. The blade provides a clear feel of the ball without excessive vibration, which helps players maintain control and consistency throughout demanding rallies.

Feel
Medium-Hard
SoftMedium-HardHard

Stradivarius delivers a feel that leans toward medium-hard, characterized by a stiff and direct feedback. The Aramid Carbon layers create a sharp, compact sensation upon impact that many players appreciate for its clarity. Some note this can limit a deeper, softer feeling, especially when paired with harder rubbers, but it consistently provides a clean, vibration-free connection with the ball.

Throw Angle
Medium-High
LowMedium-HighHigh

The throw angle is typically described as medium to medium-high, though it can be influenced by rubber selection. The combination of Aramid Carbon and wood plies allows for a good, controllable arc on topspin shots, especially when paired with rubbers that complement this characteristic.

Dwell Time
7.5

While inherently stiff, the Aramid Carbon technology is designed to allow the blade to catch the ball with sufficient deformation. This results in a medium dwell time, providing a good balance that facilitates strong spin generation without excessive ball pocketing, which is ideal for controlled offensive play.

Flexibility
3.0

The blade is generally described as stiff and hard, which is typical for composite designs with outer carbon layers. This stiffness is a key contributor to its speed and direct shot response, though it may feel less flexible compared to some other composite or all-wood blades.

Vibration
3.0

A defining feature of the Stradivarius is its significantly reduced vibration. The Aramid Carbon layers excel at absorbing shock, resulting in a very clear feel of the ball without any unpleasant or jarring feedback. This low vibration level greatly enhances control and playing comfort.

Quality
9.0

Xiom Stradivarius is frequently praised for its outstanding build quality and finish. TTSensei experts note that its construction and material quality often rival or exceed that of blades at significantly higher price points. This premium feel contributes to the blade's durability and its reputation for delivering consistent, high-level performance over time.

Technology

Xiom Stradivarius utilizes a proprietary Aramid Carbon composite material placed directly beneath the outer wood veneers. This technology is engineered for an optimal performance balance. The Aramid fibers are renowned for their vibration-absorbing qualities, minimizing jarring feedback for a stable, comfortable feel. Simultaneously, the highly elastic carbon component enhances the blade's stiffness, speed, and power. This synergy allows the blade to catch the ball deeply, facilitating significant deformation for exceptional spin generation, while the reduced residual vibration ensures a clear and direct connection crucial for precise offensive play.

Similar Blades

Butterfly Viscaria

Xiom Stradivarius is frequently mentioned as a strong alternative to the Butterfly Viscaria. Both blades share a similar 5+2 ply construction with an outer carbon layer, targeting high speed and spin with a good feel. Players report that the Stradivarius offers comparable performance at a significantly more affordable price point, making it a popular choice for those seeking the Viscaria's characteristics on a budget.

Butterfly Timo Boll Spirit (ALC)

The Stradivarius is also noted for performing similarly to the Butterfly Timo Boll Spirit, another popular offensive blade with an Aramid Carbon (ALC) layer. Our analysis suggests it delivers a comparable feel and performance, particularly for looping and attacking play. It is considered a viable, cost-effective alternative for players who enjoy the Timo Boll Spirit's attributes but are exploring other options.