Background

The Halbertec 9000 is billed as the 'peak of control' by Li Ning, and most likely may be the last high-end release of the Halbertec series. Combining a softer head with a stiff shaft, the 9000 is advertised as a control racket with technology which increase frame bounciness and precision. Let's see how it plays.

Handling

The 9000 is easy to handle and, at a glance, very playable. Shots have a soft, almost padded feel and the frame has great vibration absorption. There is a degree of shuttle hold which combines well with the moderate repulsion, allow the birdie the be briefly captured and shot out. The shaft is bouncy but on the stiff side. The even balanced feel lends versatility.

Control

The soft head & stiff shaft combined means that the 9000 can capture and then accurately direct the birdie. Both directionality and precision are high. In this domain, the 9000 excels, and does better than many rackets. Defensively the racket plays fairly well.

Speed

The 9000 is not a speedstick, but glides through the air smoothly and is reasonably agile at the front. It is above average with flat play.

Power

The is where the Halbertec 9000 falls short. Stick smashes and aggressive front court play are fine. However, power generation from the back, whether it be clears or smashes, are below average. The stiffer shaft eats a bit of power, and the soft head leads to a reduced power transmission. Bigger hits lack extension & tailspeed, the smashes don't feel heavy on the receiving end.

Overall

The structuring of the Halbertec 9000 maximises directionality, precision, and the ease of conducting play around court. However, this comes at a trade-off of a lesser ability to play at the back court. The 9000 is a good choice for doubles players who like to move their opponents and attack the empty spaces on court. The stiff shaft requires a degree of skill to master. Not my cup of tea, as I find the head too mushy, but the tacticians among us will like this one.