Pilot Archive
Thread: JTL / Joystick Advice
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Arcum
Thu Jun 02, 2005 4:51 pm
#1
Hey all...
I am thinking about picking up one of the following joysticks:
Saitek X45 Digital Joystick and Throttle
-or-
Saitek X52 Flight Control System
Has anyone used these with Jump To Light Speed? Are they any good? I like the thought of a joystick and seperate throttle control, are there any other models that offer that?
JeebusCrisp
Thu Jun 02, 2005 4:57 pm
#2
I upgraded to the 52 from a 45.
I like the fact that the rudder controls are on the throttle on the 45 versus a 'twistie' on the 52, however I use pedals so it's a non issue for me.
Either one's a superb stick for all but the most hardcore pilots, most of whom prefer the Cougar HOTAS systems.
I like the fact that the rudder controls are on the throttle on the 45 versus a 'twistie' on the 52, however I use pedals so it's a non issue for me.
Either one's a superb stick for all but the most hardcore pilots, most of whom prefer the Cougar HOTAS systems.
HanPrinslow
Thu Jun 02, 2005 7:37 pm
#3
I might actually recommend sticking with the Saitek unless your going for aesthetics. I bought a HOTAS Cougar system for the launch of JtL just cause I thought it would make it be that much more realistic feel. It sure does - the outer build quality is awesome, all metal right down to the buttons - but the springs wear out a little and leave the stick floppy. Plus, the potentiometers do some strange things after extended use, so I had to do some extended calibration fiddling to get my ship to fly straight when the stick was released! So long story short, I would recommend the Saitek oddly enough - unless you have $250 burning a hole in your wallet like I thought I did at the time 
.
.Hope that little review helps.
Kurt_Mendel
Fri Jun 03, 2005 1:05 am
#4
I currently use the X45 with JtL, and I swear by it. With as many buttons as it has (3 hats, 2 triggers,5 buttons, 3 position MODE switch, 2 position AUX switch, and 2 analog sliders), I never have to touch the KB in space at all. The stick and throttle are wonderfully precise and responsive. Some people might find the resistance on the joystick to be a bit firm. The throttle ships with very firm resistance as well, but it's adjustable (the joystick is not).
As for rudder placement on the 45 vs. 52, I personally prefer the 45's rudder on throttle. It takes a bit of getting used to if you normally use a stick with a twist, but it's definitely less wear and tear on your wrist.
The Profiler software is pretty nice too. It lets you bind keystrokes to the joystick and throttle buttons, and you can use the MODE switch to change profiles. There's also the MagicMouse. It's a little 8 way pseudo-hat on the throttle that you can use to move your mouse cursor and click with.
Stigmurder
Fri Jun 03, 2005 5:02 am
#5
JeebusCrisp, you say you are using pedals? That sounds like an interesting idea, what type do you use? Can you adjust the throttle with the angle of you feet? Interesting to say the least. I have been using a gravis gamepad thats like a copy of a PS2 pad. I can roll and such, but it takes like three hands, between that and the keyboard.
Rogue03
Fri Jun 03, 2005 7:42 am
#6
I remember using a thrustmaster hotas system w/rudder pedals for mechwarrior and i thought that was sweet....course that was before anyone had twist handle rudders. I miss the pro FCS..heavy gague springs durable case...just wish the grip was as durable 
is the saitek similar to that?
JeebusCrisp
Fri Jun 03, 2005 9:30 am
#7
Stigmurder wrote:
JeebusCrisp, you say you are using pedals? That sounds like an interesting idea, what type do you use? Can you adjust the throttle with the angle of you feet? Interesting to say the least. I have been using a gravis gamepad thats like a copy of a PS2 pad. I can roll and such, but it takes like three hands, between that and the keyboard.
Pedals are used simply for the rudder system, just like in an actual bird.
It sounds counter intuitive, but it makes a lot of sense once you get started, I don't remember the brand name, I've had 'em for a while and coated them with friction tape right after I bought 'em, but they're like 49.99 at CompUSA, USB connection...
Ramsey_Lanclo
Fri Jun 03, 2005 9:56 am
#8
Thanks for answering this guy's questions...
I've been drooling over the 52 simply for the look - Silver - Blue LEDS - But I really do loathe twist handles. Looks like I'm sold on the (cheaper) 45! Woot.
So one question - My local store doesn't have any on display to play with. How's the tension on the stick? I'm using a Suncom F-15E Talon stick right now and what I like about it is there's a good deal of resist to the stick. I find that most sticks made today are way too loose/wobbly.
Thanks!
I've been drooling over the 52 simply for the look - Silver - Blue LEDS - But I really do loathe twist handles. Looks like I'm sold on the (cheaper) 45! Woot.
So one question - My local store doesn't have any on display to play with. How's the tension on the stick? I'm using a Suncom F-15E Talon stick right now and what I like about it is there's a good deal of resist to the stick. I find that most sticks made today are way too loose/wobbly.
Thanks!
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