(Part 2) Top products from r/hotas

I used the gardena hose repair kit for the M36 metal nuts, 1" to 3/4" copper reducers, and a section of 1" PVC pipe. This image shows how I put it all together and cut it. (refer to the rest of the album for assembly pictures)

To keep the PVC from rotating on the copper reducers I drilled a hole in the PVC and tapped thread holes in it to make a set screw on the top and the bottom.

The connector on the stick is connected to the connector on the base using a PS/2 extension that I shortened and resoldered. It's not pictured in the photo set, but the instructions are pretty easy to find. It involves using a mechanical pencil to snap off one of the extra pins and some needle nose pliers and a small drill to make room for the plastic tab thing in there.

All in all it was pretty good and stayed put pretty good if I tightened the nuts enough, but it twisted a little if I put enough pressure on it. If I were to redesign it I would try to figure out a way to use tabs or the built-in oval shapey things to mechanically keep it from rotating. Also the set screws didn't work too well because PVC is soft and the screw ate out the threads. It would be better to drill through the copper and tap that I think, or use a bolt. I don't think I'm going to pursue it that much further because I don't think I an improve upon it without making it hard to remove.

Flying with an extension is pretty awesome though, the stick is so light and controllable. I think this is a good cheap way to try it out and see what you like.

I use the Thrustmaster Warthog HOTAS and also got a second Warthog Stick for a dual stick setup.

http://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/accessories/apd/a9168831?cid=309562&st=&gclid=CLWYqP6dk9QCFR1LDQodiiAAFw&lid=5848362&VEN1=s7nLQ1cQ4,183457792450,901pdb6671,m,,A9168831&VEN2=,&dgc=ST&DGSeg=DHS&acd=1230980731501410&VEN3=812403894302130950

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CBVHJ00/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IJXkzbZ5X9RT3

I also use the VKB Rudder Pedals.

http://store-x-plane-org.3dcartstores.com/VKB-T-Rudder-Pedals-MkIV_p_571.html

As for matching sticks, I am waiting to get the VIRPIL grips since they fit on the Warthog bases.

https://virpil.com/en/filtered/gpips/


-------- || -------- || --------

Alternatively, you can go with two VKB Gunfighter bases and wait for VKB SIM to release their newer right handed and left handed grips (which you can purchase later).

https://vkbcontrollers.com/?product=vkb-sim-gunfighter-base-only

Or perhaps two VKB Gladiator Pros for now and update both grips or just the left grip later when they eventually release:

https://vkbcontrollers.com/?product=vkb-gladiator

-------- || -------- || --------

Another way to go about it is getting two T16000 sticks (for a dual stick setup):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQEDEEW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_8UXkzbM4P2BW7

-------- || -------- || --------

Or just go with the T16000 HOTAS (with or without pedals):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KCHPRXA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_PVXkzbAW6TM7K

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015PII6YI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yWXkzb0KK7FTK

-------- || -------- || --------

Now although there are other options, like the Saitek products (X52, X55/X56) and CH products, those just aren't my cup of tea and too many problems plague the Saitek products that they don't seem to be worth investing in. I returned mine and got the Warthog setup and it's so much better. Night and day difference.

I hope I have listed enough choices at different price points to help you make a more informed decision.

And YES, DUAL STICKS are the best :D

You can get adapters for old joysticks to USB, e.g.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/USB-Pin-Joystick-Gameport-Converter/dp/B002JV6JPS

I do not know how well they work but it might be worth a go. I have seen someone use one, and run into some issues, here

VKB Europe's recent "Products availability" (14th Feb) had..

Gunfighter Mk.II (PRO) MCG: produced for EU in sufficient amount and expected to be shipped to our store next week . We aim to keep this product in permanent stock.

It's the stick I have my eye on, at some point.

I've had an X55 .. mine broke twice in 12 months. MadCatz were great and replaced the parts both times, but I decided to sell it on after the 2nd replacement. I don't think the X56 is much of an improvement - the switches for the buttons/hats are just too cheap to last. I would avoid this if you want a hard wearing stick.

VPC looks similar/just as nice but I am also put off by the mounting system. My PC is used by my wife and for other things and space is at a premium so even though the mount is easily removed (I believe) I simply don't have space to put it anywhere.

As for throttles. I have a CH pro, it's not a great example of it's kind however as there is a lot of play and jitter at the ends of the range. But, it has an analog stick which is essential for the space sim stuff I prefer (Elite Dangerous). It's not a great throttle if you want a realistic "feel" however, so avoid if you're concerned about that. It's basically plastic on plastic with no resistance.

You might see if you can pick up a 2nd hand Thrustmaster Warthog thottle as they are, I believe, considered to be top notch.

Hi, I'm only an occasional lurker on this sub but I can help a little here. I was searching for info and stumbled on an Italian store listing three variations, HOTAS, stick only and a 'Flight Pack.'

You may take it with a grain of salt since some store speculatively list to draw early pre-orders, but Amazon in Germany have the same products up:

HOTAS

Flight Stick

Flight Pack

I assume the Flight pack includes the pedals?

I think Thrustmaster's own website shows the throttle separately as well, and surely they'd be crazy not to sell the items individually. I'm sure it will be possible to do stick only.

>You can get adapters for old joysticks to USB, e.g.
>https://www.amazon.co.uk/USB-Pin-Joystick-Gameport-Converter/dp/B002JV6JPS

Just FYI - This adapter don't support ForceFeedback, at the best will make and MS FFB PRO work like a ordinary 4 buttons+POV HAT joystick. But OP FFB PRO no longer exist. :)

Get'em while they're hot ...

https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Saitek-X52-Flight-Controller/dp/B01LZ1MQTL/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

https://www.amazon.com/Saitek-X52-Flight-System-Controller/dp/B000LQ4HTS

Edit: Opps ... didn't fully read your post ... mobile phone :P

Re the PS2 cable: I don't know if the cable is the same as a PS2 standard cable, I recall giving away my old X52 to a mate and giving him a standard PS2 cable but he said it was a different pin-out, so buying spares from an electronic store / PC store may be an option if you modify the wiring and use the original connectors. You could also look at making a base plate for both the Stick and Throttle with guides to secure the ends of the cable. There's lots of options you can explore.

There was an early listing for what looked like budget rudder pedals on Amazon. They were super close together. I've seen nothing else. http://www.amazon.com/Thrustmaster-Flight-Rudder-Pedals-Playstation-4/dp/B015PII6YI

Interesting. I saw references to UCR when I was working on getting my warthog throttle working with star citizen.

These are the ones I'm interested in (especially the Griffin one), but they don't say anything about MIDI. Do you think one might be able to be turned into a virtual joystick slider using UCR?

https://www.amazon.com/Griffin-Technology-NA16029-Multimedia-Controller/dp/B003VWU2WA

https://www.amazon.com/DROK-Lossless-Computer-Controller-Adjuster/dp/B01MV411BR

Edit: Actually I just realized the griffin is discontinued and sold out or overpriced most places... I guess the other one is ok too.

Thanks dude, it is the Super Warthog Wheel Stand Pro -- I just removed the right RSG when I got it.

https://www.amazon.com/Wheel-Thrustmaster-keyboard-throttles-included/dp/B01NAN0SF3

Also, I ordered the $40 joystick adapter so it's the small adapter for the stick rather than having the plate mounted.

It is stand alone and folds down to store away if needed, not attached to the chair at all.

Something like this, but it seems expensive...

I would personally just build my own with a Pro Micro or Arduino. Would be a fun project ^^

Edit: Or this?

I respect how you guys interact with the community and even approach others if they have problems. But I'm sorry, I have to disagree that product quality has been sufficiently been patched up now.

It's an average of 3 stars across from multiple review sites.

• Amazon.com, 3 stars, 85 reviews
  
• Amazon.com, 3 stars, 3 reviews(RGB version this time)
  
• Amazon uk, 3.5 stars, 93 reviews
  
• Amazon Germany, 3 stars, 25 reviews
  
• Newegg, 2 stars, 10 reviews
  
• Though Amazon Canada is at 4 stars with 90 reviews
  
  I'm not doing this to prove a point. But I would recommend that Logitech approaches these reviewers to help the situation and help your company's reputation.

This is the mount I bought - I used to have a triple monitor setup but when I moved to a 34'' UltraWide I ripped the left and right arms off and now am using them for the Hotas.

https://www.amazon.com/VIVO-Monitor-Adjustable-Screens-STAND-V003/dp/B009S7ALH8

Edit: Looks like that mount above is no longer available - this one would probably work as well -but I dont own it so I can be 100% sure on the length of the arms:
https://www.amazon.com/VIVO-Monitor-Adjustable-Screens-STAND-V002/dp/B009S750LA/ref=sr_1_6?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1475257585&sr=1-6&keywords=vivo+desk+mount

I tend to use these quite a bit to keep cables bundled together. These are good if you need a bundle of cables protected from a chair, walking, animals. I'll then attach the bundled cables to items/table legs/other cables with these

Both of my cats love twist ties and zip ties. They just aren't an option.

My PC case is a server rack case too, so I have a ton of rack cable organization panels on the back of it rack.

the 100% wife friendly solution:
https://www.amazon.com/Warthog-Thrustmaster-WARTHOGTM-keyboard-throttles-included/dp/B01NAN0SF3/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1496625142&sr=8-10&keywords=wheelstand+pro

Those are indeed excellent pedals. I had some I used for a long time and I loved them. I sold them and my X52 Pro just before Elite was announced. I got more than I paid new for both, since I'd picked them up on sale.

I missed the Kickstarter because I'm not a huge fan of most crowdfunding things. It was just kind of funny how it was maybe a year after I sold them that that I first heard about Elite. Picked it and an X55 up as soon as Elite was finally released and played it for a long while, then got bored and missed out on the Lifetime Pass option. :/ As you might imagine, I've been reading the updates religiously ever since even when I'm taking a break from the game.

Anyhow, the pedals I'm eyeballing are the Thrustmaster TFRP Flight Rudder Pedals. For the price, they look halfway decent. The measurements look as though they'll fit in my foot area OK. I keep hoping maybe a friend will pick a set up and I can test them before purchasing but if not, Amazon's great about returns if necessary.

Ordered the mounts you suggested here: https://www.amazon.com/VIVO-Monitor-Adjustable-Screens-STAND-V003/dp/B009S7ALH8

How did you build the bracket exactly? I have the DXRacer King Series chair. Would be nice to play away from my desk with the controls at proper height finally.

EDIT: Just saw you had a local welder do it. Would you be able to get it duplicated and send to me? Will pay for shipping and cost of welding of course.

As was mentioned, velcro works great.


http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E1Y5O6?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_37&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I use the thumb POV hat on my CH fighterstick for yaw. The shape of it is particularly excellent for yaw, as it requires a deliberate rocker-type motion to use the forward and back parts of that POV hat: http://www.amazon.com/CH-Products-200-571-Fighterstick-USB/dp/B00006B84X

Well, it depends on what you're looking for. Those kinds of throttle controls do exist, and are often often designed for specific kinds of aircraft. I hesitate to recommend Saitek given their currentnear-complete lack of support at the moment, but I've heard their yokes and throttle quadrants are actually decent and a number of other companies do some even more comprehensively. You might also take a look at the CH Products Throttle Quadrant if you're interested in that sort of thing. They're ugly, but they're built like tanks and at $120 they aren't going to break the bank.

Found these guys in the "frequently bought with" section of the X55 page, anybody have first hand experience with them?

The best I've been able to find is this doc: https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71a8WBq01pS.pdf

Which you can find linked on the amazon product page: https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Gaming-Saitek-Flight-Rhino/dp/B01LX398IE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491692701&sr=8-1&keywords=x56

Which says:
> Valid warranty claims are generally processed through the point of purchase retailer during the first thirty (30) days after purchase.

Mine shorted out about four months after purchase. I was denied RMA because I was out of the warranty period.

Depending on your cash maybe something like this

A Gardena hose connector to use their M36 nut:

https://www.amazon.com/Gardena-39035-8-Inch-Garden-Connector/dp/B002VED3KW

A suitable diameter PVC or aluminum tube.

PS2 extension cable - can bough the connectors and assemble one in desired extension, depends on your DIY skill.

Basic there: https://mwomercs.com/forums/topic/225157-thrustmaster-warthog-extension-and-absolute-aim/

Other examples in DCS forum, SimHQ.

But VirPil, Baur, MFG extensions is affordable.

DSD has a bunch of designs

You could use Thrustmaster MFDs with custom inserts.

Saitek has a few different panels as well.

Xkeys if you need more buttons than you know what to do with

If you want a more authentic GA flight experience then consider getting a yoke instead of a HOTAS. That way you can control prop and mixture which are an important part of GA flight. The CH Eclipse includes paddles for controlling yaw in lieu of pedals.

https://www.amazon.com/CH-Products-Eclipse-Yoke-Programmable/dp/B001GIOGBY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1524072947&sr=8-2&keywords=ch+yoke

Want to go halves on a twin pack from amazon?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B002HH9TRY

Just dropped to 139.99! http://www.amazon.com/Saitek-X52-Flight-System-Controller/dp/B000LQ4HTS
Edit: Amazon refunded the price difference for when I ordered it a few days ago :D

CH makes joysticks and yokes.

https://www.amazon.com/CH-Products-Flight-Yoke-200-615/dp/B000056SPM

https://www.amazon.com/CH-Products-Eclipse-Yoke-Programmable/dp/B001GIOGBY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1506116244&sr=1-1&keywords=ch+eclipse

The Eclipse is newer.

https://www.amazon.com/CH-Products-Throttle-Quadrant-300-133/dp/B0002A59Z4/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1506116050&sr=1-1&keywords=ch+quadrant

CH Fighterstick

VKB Gladiator Mk. II

Logitech 3D Pro Joystick

Tried to find joysticks priced as close to the T.16000m as possible, but it is really a knockout in its price range.

Depends on your chair setup, particularly the type of arms. If you have a chair with a big loop/"D"-shaped arms (usually attached at front and rear of the arm), 2 of these seem to be popular (with a small, square board screwed on + velcro). Alternatively, you can use simple large shelf brackets screwed to the bottom of your chair (if it has a wooden base i.e. is not a mesh chair).

In my case, with this chair, I ordered an extra set of arms and have them attached forward of the main set - with the big silver, adjustable part removed. I then have a simple bracket/square plate setup bolted to the top of arm brackets.

Btw, /r/homecockpits is a useful source of info and had quite a few chair builds on there, last I looked.

I use two of these attached right to the regular chair armrests

these
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BT7EA18/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=sl1&tag=nerdshowand09-20&linkId=98b05413c5c5fbf0ddee78adfe4305b1

https://www.amazon.com/Bessey-STC-IHH25-Horizontal-Auto-Adjust-Clamping/dp/B0057PUFMG

This is what I ordered after watching the Monstertech videos and research. Now to order my 8020.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010W3O8R0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MOh2DbX6VXMTD?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf

Openwheeler GEN2 Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit Blue on Black | Fits All Logitech G29 | G920 | All Thrustmaster | All Fanatec Wheels | Compatible with Xbox One, PlayStation, PC Platforms https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010W3O8R0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MOh2DbX6VXMTD

Take a look at the ultra durable CH products, the Fighterstick and the Throttle. Multiple outfits sell it, and the price varies (generally $120 for each)

I ended up buying the aluminum extrusions and the clamps and I am in the process of making my own version of the MonsterTech mounts.

• 2 x Bessey IHH25 clamps
  
  
• 1000mm of 20x80mm V-Slot rail
  
  
• 8 x Hidden Inside Corner Brackets
  
  
• A pack of Tee Nuts
  
  
• A piece of 5/8" thick plywood to make the base plates for the HOTAS controllers.
  
  I haven't finished mine, but I will post an album when I do. I still need to mount the plates.

Not listed in US stores yet, but a standalone version exists: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B01H6KXGEI/

If you're after a yoke in that price range, the go-to nowadays seems to be CH Products, though they still aren't perfect.

Basic entry level yoke

"Eclipse" yoke

​

You might also try asking on r/flightsim

Which is actually an average price on Amazon:

http://camelcamelcamel.com/Saitek-X52-Flight-System-Controller/product/B000LQ4HTS?context=browse

Could you please learn to lmgtfy.com and stop flooding this subreddit with easily researched questions? Your enthusiasm is great, but spam is spam.

You mean something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GF0U6NA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0QdMAb5KNGSV8

Looks like you could attach their desk mount to the metal plate. Or possibly screw the t50 base to the stand's plate.

Unfortunately I can't take advantage of their sale. The desk mounts are the only way to use their sticks. My desk is too thick and there's no word on the warBRD desktop base.

My warthog stick is half broken and I'm pretty much screwed in terms of options. I'll have to give dcs a break. Vkb never has stock either and it's been delay after delay.