Who has the new Gladiator Joysticks Reviews Please

[KoN_]

S!

 

Hi all any input or video on this new joystick from the community Here .

 

[Bommel]

http://forum.il2sturmovik.com/topic/23748-im-retiring-my-msffb-stick-sim-just-got-new-vkb-sim-gladiato/

[KoN_]

Thanks , yea ive seen that but there is no video , i want too see how this joystick handles in combat .. lol ...

[KoN_]

Ive order the Gladiator . 

 

Shall do a review once here .

[Sokol1]

In depth review in Reddit - under ED optics. That guy know what are buying, a 2 buttons + HAT joystick, that find very functional. 

 

https://www.reddit.com/r/hotas/comments/4u9rhm/vkb_gladiator_ch_throttle_pro_review/

[KoN_]

Thanks any news on new software for the VKB rudder pedals . Toe break ect . 

[71st_AH_Mastiff]

still waiting, now looks like not until September.. :/

[Sokol1]

T-Link (T-Rudder) software is being redone due the new USB controller "Black Box" used by Mk.IV.

 

But the V.062.7 Test version work OK for T-Rudder Mk.III (I use for DCW, BoS don't need).

[KoN_]

Thanks , in DCS,  yes this software will be useful .

[71st_AH_Mastiff]

wow is this the answer to better movement, in my opinion, yes!.

 

I haven't even moded the pro with the new gimble pulleys yet, but the movement is much smoother than a CH fighter stick. I cant wait for the new grips to come out, I surely want this set up with a fighter style set up more buttons on the stick please!!

 

my shots are far more accurate!

Edited August 31, 2016 by 71st_AH_Mastiff

[MaxVonDayGlow]

I received by Gladiator Pro yesterday.

 

Pics:

 

 

Quick Review:

 

**TLDR - Works better than advertised. Best stick I have ever owned in more than 20 years of flight simming. Kicking myself for not getting a Mamba when they were available, and looking forward to future VKB products with eager anticipation.***

 

1. Construction - Very solidly built. All the buttons have a very premium feel to them, and the unit as a whole does not feel cheap in any way.

 

2. Function - No calibration needed. X/Y Axes are perfectly precise, and every button press is solid and responsive. Out of the box the gimbal is setup with more resistance than CH or Saitek sticks, and less than a TM Warthog (my TM:WH experience is limited to store models on the shelf). It is smooth with no hitch when crossing center or mixing axes. Best feeling stick (that is what she said...) I have ever used.

 

3. Setup - Plug and play. I plugged the T-Rudder MK-IVs into the Glad-Pro using he provided port+CAT5 cable, and it simply added another axis. No muss and no fuss. Software is a bit lacking. The Wizzo (v0_73) software is simple, but I could find no way to remap buttons. The VKB config software (VKBDevCfg-C_0_77_2_6) crashes when I try to open the button mapping wizard. I would really love to remap the pinky button on the stick as a regular button, but I haven't found a way to make that happen yet.

 

4. IL2:BoS and DCS (about 2 hours testing): Coming from a CH Fighterstick, and then a Cobra M5, the movement of the Glad-Pro is a revelation. I saw an immediate improvement lining up guns passes in IL2. I quickly realized that I was over correcting trying to anticipate the "hitch" when making fine adjustments to X/Y that has always been present in every other stick I have used. Once I stopped over correcting, I could easily put the pipper on target and gently squeeze. I noticed the same thing flying the Huey in DCS. Once I stopped over correcting, I was able to fly 100% more smoothly.

 

Thoughts.....

 

I knew I would miss the extra hats and buttons on the CH Fighterstick and Cobra M5. Over the past few weeks I have weaned myself off of using more than 1 hat on the stick (moving functions to the hats on my CH Pro Throttle), but I know it won't be long before I will be looking to find a way to add more hats/buttons. The Cobra M5 handle is not a direct swap, but I think with an adapter for the base and the wiring, it would be a simple upgrade. Hopefully someone is working on such an option. My current plan is to grab a WH adapter as soon as they are available and to keep an eye out for an FLCS, Cougar, or WH handle.

Edited August 31, 2016 by 19.GIAP//HooliganS3

[Sokol1]

Nice review.

 

 

 

The Wizzo (v0_73) software is simple, but I could find no way to remap buttons. The VKB config software (VKBDevCfg-C_0_77_2_6) crashes when I try to open the button mapping wizard. I would really love to remap the pinky button on the stick as a regular button, but I haven't found a way to make that happen yet.

 

WIZZO has no remap buttons ability - is for users that became scared with software with more than two options.    

 

Try run VKBDevCfg "As administrator".

 

First you need increase the buttons number in Gladiator - Njoy32 allow up to 128 (BoS see 64, DCS 128), then remap A button for number above 29  - already used.

 

http://forum.vkb-sim.pro/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=2271&start=15

 

 

 

The Cobra M5 handle is not a direct swap,

 

Is need use VKB adapter to fit M5 (or Warthog/Cougar) grips. I ask UIV to provide adapter for CH Fighter/Combatstick grips too.

Edited August 31, 2016 by Sokol1

[71st_AH_Mastiff]

Nice review.

 

 

 

WIZZO has no remap buttons ability - is for users that became scared with software with more than two options.    

 

Try run VKBDevCfg "As administrator".

 

First you need increase the buttons number in Gladiator - Njoy32 allow up to 128 (BoS see 64, DCS 128), then remap A button for number above 29  - already used.

 

http://forum.vkb-sim.pro/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=2271&start=15

 

 

 

 

Is need use VKB adapter to fit M5 (or Warthog/Cougar) grips. I ask UIV to provide adapter for CH Fighter/Combatstick grips too.

please with all buttons working too?

 

I all so want to add that with this gimbals, hall sensors, I seem to have a much stable platform, and now my rudder pedals work much better, I'm all so not getting nose bounce any-longer. I'm going to attribute this big issue with pointometers jittery pots causing issues with the cheap joysticks; and with controls.

 

if you have the money; I would suggest highly to get this kind of flight-stick! I actually can sense a feel for the aircraft much better!

Edited August 31, 2016 by 71st_AH_Mastiff

[MaxVonDayGlow]

Nice review.

 

 

 

WIZZO has no remap buttons ability - is for users that became scared with software with more than two options.    

 

Try run VKBDevCfg "As administrator".

 

First you need increase the buttons number in Gladiator - Njoy32 allow up to 128 (BoS see 64, DCS 128), then remap A button for number above 29  - already used.

 

http://forum.vkb-sim.pro/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=2271&start=15

 

 

 

 

Is need use VKB adapter to fit M5 (or Warthog/Cougar) grips. I ask UIV to provide adapter for CH Fighter/Combatstick grips too.

 

Running as admin makes no difference.

 

[71st_AH_Mastiff]

Running as admin makes no difference.

 

mine works.

[Sokol1]

Running as admin makes no difference.

 

 

 

Try with VKB Config Software v-0.77.5.5 (uploaded for FTP today).

 

http://forum.vkb-sim.pro/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=908

 

And, before click in Buttons Wizard (in Tools) - set the program in Expert (in Settings) mode and re-start.

 

If the bove link ask registration (for VKB forum), download from there:

 

https://yadi.sk/d/8I3c5h1ZueQi2

Edited September 1, 2016 by Sokol1

[MaxVonDayGlow]

That did it!

 

Thanks!!!

 

Now I have to learn how to program. 

 

I really appreciate the help!!

[VictorUs]

Congratulations!!!

Try to use this link http://forum.vkb-sim.pro/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=2112  Materials about programming VKB joysticks, tips, tricks, solutions. Controls (axes and buttons) of all VKB devices can be programmed with the same manner, so do not look at joystick model in these descriptions.

Go to https://yadi.sk/d/vJhGT6-Mqn2Z6

Save zconfig.ini in the same folder with VKBDevCfg.exe. This file is created automatically after the first program run, but some sections you must add manually. My ini is complete))

[Sokol1]

About use Cobra M5 (or Mamba) grips in Gladiator PRO base:

 

 

We developed a special adapter for Mamba\Cobra Grip. Can't use Warthog adapter. 

 

Expected since this adapter is fited inside the grip, and M5 grip is less width than Warthog grip.

Supposed to be released...

 

CH grips - that use different protocol communication with joystick controller (Diode Matrix instead Shift Register ) the answer is that is not planed... "for a while"...  

 

 

In the near future we didn't develop adapters for CH grip.

Edited September 1, 2016 by Sokol1

[=362nd_FS=Hiromachi]

I'm thinking of getting myself T-rudder pedals ? Other choice would be something cheaper CH Products Pro Pedals or even creepier Saiteks since I'm at the end of my money. 

Question most important is how easy to adapt T-rudders will be for a green guy like me. All my virtual life I've used twist and now I'm trying get with a new stick also rudder pedals. I'm a bit afraid if not concerned of spending that much money on peripherals so if someone could present a better look on T-rudders and if for newcomer they are presenting a distinct advantage over CH/Saitek products ? 

[6./ZG26_5tuka]

Although I consider the Flight/Combat pedals to be one of Saiteks more solid piece of equipment they tend to wear out badly over time (rubber rollers wear out, rails get impured with rubber & dirt, very maintanance intensive). Their accurancy is also not as good as top brand pedals, but yet I'm fine with it since pedal input in real live isn't really pinpoint accurate either.

 

The difference between the T-rudders and other pedals is the tilt pedals (as found in gliders) vs. the usual push pedals layout. Depending on where you put them one or the other could be more comfortable to you. Floorspace is also important and from what I know the T-rudders require the least.

 

For someone with no pedal expirience both types will probably require the same effort to get used to.

Edited September 1, 2016 by 6./ZG26_5tuka

[Sokol1]

The major difference between T-rudder and CH, Saitek or the new Thrustmaster TFRP is the working kinematics.

 

In CH & cia you control rudder with legs movements - as in real planes.

 

In T-Rudder you control rudder with foot pressure, in similar way that you control you car brakes pedal.

Due this is very adequate to use with conventional office chair. (1)

 

This last method is less tireless, specially in office chair and allow "millimetrically" adjustments. I am able to drive vehicles in ARMA3 using my T-rudder.

 

I find that in "modern" CFS/G - DCSW, BoS, CloD use rudder pedals make all difference. I should say that I don't like of "twist rudder" - use then in MSFFB and T.16000M joysticks.

 

If you don't want speed much money, look at Thrustmaster TFRP, cost around 90$.

 

CH is OK and honest product, last decades - I modernize for USB some made in end of 90's.

But for today standard use obsolete electronics with their 8 bits (256 "steeps" across axis course), what maybe can be issue for control DCSW helicopters, maybe not noticeable in planes. If find for good price you are not wrong in buy.

 

Saitek only as last and only option - soon or latter you will have problem with their potentiometers.

 

But the "Next Gen" pedals - VKB, MFG, Slaw, Baur is in other class.

 

(1) Making a "creative" support T-rudder can be used in "swing" - back and forth - movement, mounted vertically... upside down.

Edited September 1, 2016 by Sokol1

[6./ZG26_5tuka]

One thing to add though regarding the money question. Quality is also a concern especially for secondary equipment such as pedals. Buying cheap isn't nessecarily bad, but sooner or later you'll end up buying twice.

 

The T-rudders are the only full metal pedals out of the mentioned and should have the highest durability and resell value (don't own them, so can't confirm it).

Edited September 1, 2016 by 6./ZG26_5tuka

[Bearfoot]

One thing to add though regarding the money question. Quality is also a concern especially for secondary equipment such as pedals. Buying cheap isn't nessecarily bad, but sooner or later you'll end up buying twice.

 

The T-rudders are the only full metal pedals out of the mentioned and should have the highest durability and resell value (don't own them, so can't confirm it).

 

Bauer BRD is also full metal.

 

MFG is composite material, ~30% weaker than alum, but also made ~30% thicker/more material, so aggregate strength is same.

 

[EDIT: I see now that you, 5tuka, were referring to post comparing VKB to CH/Saitek, and MFG/BRD/Slaw were not the "other" pedals you had in mind. Apologies for the misinterpretation on my part to which the below is a response. You are absolutely right about the strength, durability and resale value of VKB over the CH and Saitek. Especially Saitek: toe brakes failed on me in less than a year, and I have read numerous reports of the same happening to other people.] Durability argument with any of these high-end pedals (VKB, MFG, BRD, Slaw, etc.), saying one is more or less than other, is red herring/smoke-and-mirrors,: absolutely no report of any of them breaking, stressing, cracking, etc. in all these years of use by hundreds? thousands? of people. Same goes for resale value: fail to see why and no evidence for resale value of VKB is more or less than, e.g., BRD or MFG. 

 

Choice comes down to following:

 

1. VKB vs. MFG/BRD/Slaw -- which motion you prefer (up/down vs. swivel) and how important "real" toe brakes[*] are to you.

 

[*] yes, I know VKB offer software solution for toe brakes, where you trigger brake using joystick switch and then use pedal operation to effect differential force. But (a) this is not same "feeling"/motion as actual toe brake on, e.g., Luftwaffe or US aircraft; and (b) correct me if I am wrong, but with software toe brakes the original toe brake can only be given as non-analog/non-gradient, i.e., 100% brake that is then differentially distributed left/right. "True" or "real" toe brakes allow for, e.g., 5% brake on left and 0% on right.

 

2. MFG vs BRD vs. Slaw

 

This one comes down to style and aesthetics. I think MFG is much more configurable than BRD in adjustment of angles, tension, cams, width, pedal angle choices, linear vs. exponential force, etc. etc. but BRD may be "good enough" in this regard. Also, BRD is all metal which you may prefer, but this is purely aesthetic as (see above), question of strength/durability is one for trivia board and not practice.

 

Full disclosure: I will note that I originally got VKB rudder IV, and loved every aspect of it (precision, build, craftsmanship, etc;) .... except for width. Found it too narrow for me. So I sold it. But this sounds like a "personal" problem, because nobody else complains about this and everyone loves it. FYI,

 

Full disclosure 2: After lots of debate, research, investigation, etc. I am now getting MFG. Main reason for choice over BRD is configurability (especially width adjustment plate allows for fitting in unmodified Obutto if I get one in the future as well as going wider if I need).

Edited September 1, 2016 by Bearfoot

[Sokol1]

[*] yes, I know VKB offer software solution for toe brakes, where you trigger brake using joystick switch and then use pedal operation to effect differential force. But (a) this is not same "feeling"/motion as actual toe brake on, e.g., Luftwaffe or US aircraft; and (b) correct me if I am wrong, but with software toe brakes the original toe brake can only be given as non-analog/non-gradient, i.e., 100% brake that is then differentially distributed left/right. "True" or "real" toe brakes allow for, e.g., 5% brake on left and 0% on right.

 

Should be noted that from BoS/BoM available planes, more than 50% don't use - IRL - "toe brakes", so for "non-Luftw'affers" only players this should not too primarily.   

 

And this pneumatic brakes system in British/Russian/Italian planes work more as 0-100% that proportionally. In Russian by vend the air in the opposite wheel.

 

But the in game solution allow "differential brakes" proportional (to rudder pedal movement or "twist rudder" in joystick) for any plane, so for BoS/BoM T-link brake is superfluous.

 

I agree that MFG is "the best" overall rudder pedals - cost x features - by only more ~35$ (relative to less cost option) one get... "toe brakes".   

Edited September 30, 2016 by Sokol1

[=EXPEND=Tripwire]

You are absolutely right about the strength, durability and resale value of VKB over the CH and Saitek. Especially Saitek: toe brakes failed on me in less than a year, and I have read numerous reports of the same happening to other people.]

 

Can confirm, had to RMA my Saitek Pro flight within a few weeks of purchase due to failed rudder axis. Replacement set lasted until I recently had a toe brake axis fail that required me to open up the pedals and resolder a wire cut by the pedals due to sh*t design.

 

If I had my time again I would opt for something like MFG Crosswinds. My MSFFB2 is still going after 15 years, these Saitek pedals couldn't last 1.

Edited September 1, 2016 by Tripwire

[Sokol1]

Gladiator PRO user review x Saitek X-55. 

 

https://www.reddit.com/r/hotas/comments/51pn9c/thoughts_having_upgraded_from_x55_stick_to_a/

[MaxVonDayGlow]

About use Cobra M5 (or Mamba) grips in Gladiator PRO base:

 

 

 

Expected since this adapter is fited inside the grip, and M5 grip is less width than Warthog grip.

Supposed to be released...

 

 

Is there any way to get on a waiting list or to sign up to beta test the Cobra M5 adapter? I have the M5 and the G-Pro, and I am eager to get a jet style grip working with the amazing gimbal in the G-Pro.

 

Thanks!

[Sokol1]

Ask there for a guy called UIV (is the same login from here):

 

http://forum.il2sturmovik.ru/topic/2579-gladiator-novyj-byudzhetnyj-dzhoj-ot-vkb/page-76