Unleashing the Gearbox Pro Control Paddles: A Review
In March, Gearbox launched a new line of paddles known as the CX14 Ultimate Power series. Recently, they introduced the Pro models, providing notable improvements. After putting the Pro paddles to the test, it’s fair to say they deserve the title of Ultimate Power paddles due to their enhanced liveliness and greater offensive capabilities compared to previous Gearbox models.
Exploring the Technological Enhancements
The Pro models carry over much of the technology found in the Ultimate Power paddles but come with several enhancements, the most significant being a raw carbon fiber face. For those curious about the rest of the upgrades—which are genuinely impressive—more detailed information can be found on Gearbox’s website. In this review, I’ll emphasize the performance of these paddles rather than the technical specifications, as Gearbox does an excellent job highlighting the latter.
I took each of the four paddles in the Pro series for a spin: the Pro Power Elongated, Pro Power Fusion, Pro Control Elongated, and the Pro Control Fusion. Due to the range of paddles available, I decided to split the reviews into two parts—one focusing on the Power models and this one examining the Control models specifically.
Diving Into the Control Models
While the Control paddles lack the raw power of their Pro Power counterparts, they still deliver impressive performance. These paddles provide a lively response off the face, generating power comparable to 16mm thermoformed paddles. However, the overall feel is distinctly different.
Thermoformed paddles typically offer a rigid experience, whereas the Gearbox Pro Control paddles deliver a classic, plush sensation that enhances ball connection and control. This feel is reminiscent of the Ben Johns Hyperion paddle. It’s uncommon for paddles to strike the balance between significant power and a softer touch, with most that boast such a plush feel leaning more towards pure control.
A Question of Forgiveness
One aspect Gearbox is known for is the training required to master their paddles. Going into this review, I wondered if the Pro Control models would be more forgiving than the previous SST core paddles. While I found that they are indeed more forgiving, they still don’t measure up to the average paddle in today’s market. This aspect may lead to more errors for casual players despite the overall nice feel and control when hitting the sweet spot.
During my spin tests, I consistently clocked just under 2000 RPMs with some instances peaking over 2100. These paddles are designed for high spin rates, and the way the ball moves appears more pronounced than with typical paddles. The reason for the average RPM being below 2000 likely stems from the tighter sweet spot, leading to less spin when the ball doesn’t hit the center.
Another interesting feature of this series is their quiet operation. Compared to standard polypropylene core paddles, the Pro Control models have a dampened sound. Gearbox states this is thanks to added technology, and I can confirm it works effectively.
Performance Analysis: Pro Control Elongated
Though the Pro Control Elongated may not match the baseline power of the Power models, it performs well in other areas. I found that this paddle often had the necessary power to close out points and maintain pressure on my opponent. In terms of offensive play, its performance was comparable to many thermoformed paddles concerning power and spin.
To maximize the power potential, it is essential to strike the central area of the paddle; otherwise, power drops significantly around the edges. I discovered that the Pro Control models allow for more versatility during attacks compared to the Pro Power paddles. With them, I could vary my speed, drop the ball when my opponents were deep, or hit sharper angles with aggressive dinks. The Power models, on the other hand, felt a bit more one-dimensional, favoring higher speeds.
The Pro Control Elongated boasts a swing weight of 123, giving it a noticeably head-heavy feel. Although it doesn’t have the same speed as a lightning-quick paddle, it still moves better than expected due to its sleek, edgeless design. I found it easier to control the pace of the game and execute soft shots with the Control models than with the Power models. After a short adjustment period, I became more consistent with drops, dinks, and resets.
Facing Off with Thermoformed Paddles
When comparing the Gearbox Pro Control paddles to thermoformed options, the feeling upon impact is far more satisfying—dense, plush, and softer as opposed to the stiffer sensation from thermoformed models. Personally, I found the feel of the Pro Control paddles superior, but they do have their trade-offs concerning forgiveness on mishits.
Gearbox paddles are known for their smaller sweet spots, and the Pro Control models don’t stray far from this trend. While there has been a slight improvement in sweet spot size compared to early SST core paddles, it remains on the small side. I believe this enhancement stems mainly from the higher swing weight rather than any groundbreaking technology.
That said, adding lead tape where indicated in certain videos can significantly enhance stability and control. Start by applying around 3 grams on each side to retain balance without overly increasing the swing weight.
While many all-court paddles now incorporate thermoforming technology, providing excellent power in a more forgiving frame, the Pro Control paddles do face stiff competition. This places them at a disadvantage in terms of forgiveness compared to lightweight thermoformed paddles that retail for a fraction of the price.
Evaluating the Price Point
Does the smaller sweet spot matter? Yes, it’s certainly worth considering. While lead tape can help, it is essential to remember that the price point comes with expectations.
I adore the unique, plush feel and slight edge in power these paddles offer, but the combination of their higher swing weight and limited sweet spot is a drawback. If you’ve tried thermoformed paddles and disliked their feel, the Pro Control Elongated may be the perfect fit. It combines the classic touch of a control paddle with the punch of an all-court design.
But the burning question remains: is $275 a justified price tag? Gearbox is pushing boundaries with this price range; various up-and-coming brands are releasing high-quality paddles priced significantly lower. With such competition, many players—and myself included—find ourselves questioning whether these paddles truly offer value for money.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
To help with this decision, let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
– Impressive power paired with a plush, soft, and dense feel.
– Unique carbon fiber core that is likely to outlast polypropylene cores before developing dead areas in the sweet spot.
– Gearbox’s innovative technology differentiates its paddles from competitors, making them hard to replicate.
– The SST core ensures that the paddles maintain some spin after six months, even more so than typical polypropylene cores would at that point.
Cons:
– The grit on the paddle’s face is likely to wear quicker than the core, offering only about six months of effective spin production.
– Although the Pro Control paddles carry the power of thermoformed options with a softer touch, they lack the forgiveness of other paddles in the $150 range.
– The all-court category is becoming increasingly competitive, with numerous strong contenders that are more unique than the Pro Control models.
In reviewing all these factors, I find it slightly harder to recommend the Pro Control paddles at the hefty price of $275 compared to the value propositions in the all-court category.
If you believe that Gearbox has the paddle that matches your style of play, check out their site for a purchase. Remember, if you use the link provided, you’ll support our work.
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