[NEW] Saitek X-55 Rhino H.O.T.A.S.

[kestrel79]

What's the throttle hat switch like over the pinky finger now? Does that feel awkward? I really like how it's by your index finger on the x52 pro.

[Warpig]

Can anybody tell me if this has a twist rudder on the stick?

[Sokol1]

Yes, twist rudders is Saitek "tradition" on joysticks.

 

You can deactive this axis in software GUI (or in game GUI):

 

 

But dont can lock physicaly the "twist" - like is possible in X-52.

 

Sokol1

 

 

[FuriousMeow]

What's the throttle hat switch like over the pinky finger now? Does that feel awkward? I really like how it's by your index finger on the x52 pro.

 

It's not a hat, it's a rotary but not an axis - it acts as a button press going forward and a different button press going backwards. It would be useful for things that open and close, you just have to rotate it a lot to do the open or closing.

[Warpig]

Yes, twist rudders is Saitek "tradition" on joysticks.

 

You can deactive this axis in software GUI (or in game GUI):

 

But dont can lock physicaly the "twist" - like is possible in X-52.

 

Sokol1

Thank you for the response, I couldn't find a deinitive answer elswhere.

 

The only thing that looks unappealing about this flight stick so far is the lack of a dual stage trigger. I guess I could always assign guns and cannons to the same trigger anyways, but I really like having them seperate without having them on seperate buttons. Why would Saitek downgrade parts of an upgraded model? I never understood why companies do this.........

Edited February 27, 2014 by Warpig

[Pudfark]

Well my X-55 arrived yesterday afternoon late....only had time to open the box and take a look.  I'm gonna start hooking it up in few minutes and give it a try...hope to have something to report later today...  Thanx FM & Sokol1

[Sokol1]

I guess I could always assign guns and cannons to the same trigger anyways,

 

Dual trigger for WWII CFS is dubious, in the heart of battle you end firing MGs and Cannons instead the intended MGs only... and you  can't use Cannon only. "Dual" stage is really good for modern "Jets".

 

For WWII CFS use MG on trigger, Cannon on grey left side button (or vice versa): You can use only MG, only Cannon or both.

 

Sokol1

Edited March 1, 2014 by Sokol1

[JG27_Chivas]

I'm once again tempted to find a replacement for my MSFF2 Joystick/Cougar Throttle setup, which is getting rather long in the tooth.  I've bought every other high end Hotas system with no luck.   IMHO the X52 was by far the worst of the bunch, for some of the reasons already posted in this thread.  I have a couple of questions about the X55.

 

Are the  X55 gimbals smooth or clunky?  As a comparison I considered the CH gimbals very clunky with considerable force changes going thru the XY axis which made accurate shooting a little more difficult.   If I remember correctly the X52 gimbals were smooth enough, it was the deadzone that was a problem.

 

I assume the hand rests on top of the Throttle of the X55?   I prefer the way my hand rapped around the Cougar Throttle while my thumb could intuitively and easily use the rotaries and switches.   That said, I like all the switches on the X55 throttle base which would be very handy and easy to find while using the Oculus Rift.

 

Does it appear difficult to retrofit an extension and longer wiring to the Joystick?

[Pudfark]

I finally had the time yesterday....to start using my X-55.  My impressions are favorable and are aligned with Furious Meows observations and reports here.

So, I'm not gonna repeat what has already been said.  My initial impression of the stick was "damn that's a stout spring"...must understand, I came from a MSFFB stick.  I used it for about two hours yesterday.  I normally use rudder pedals..instead I used the twist axis.  I found that spring to be very strong and I will be going back to my pedals.  All controls were precise and I liked that.  The stick in my opinion is going to take some hours of usage, due to the spring and stick centering cup at the bottom.  I have experienced some "drag"/abrasiveness there.  I'm going to try a lighter spring later today and if that doesn't help, I've got some DRY powdered teflon that I'm gonna apply on the stick centering piece....I'm pretty certain that will cure the "friction/sticktion" problem and accelerate "break in".

 

On the throttle part....I really like it a lot.  I adjusted the friction on the throttle to "none" or very little.  I don't want to sound like a gushing school girl...so, I'll just say it this way....I like everything about and I ain't sending it back.  I give much credit to those who wrote in greater detail and accuracy about this product.

 

Just sayin' that there enough buttons on the throttle...that I could go back to my MSFFB stick, if I wanted.  

While this is an early remark from me....I believe it to be worth the price, the quality is good, though not "aircraft grade" as in real life.  

I have not "played" with the software so...please take my comments as...perhaps being a little premature.

 

I'd buy it again.  Something I would never say about my G940, which has been collecting dust on the shelf for the last 4 years.

 

Salute All !

[Sokol1]

How (easy) change X-55 springs.

 

 

Sokol1

 

 

[Pudfark]

Howdy Sokol1

I just finished changing the springs about thirty minutes ago.  It's easy, intuitive.  Though, you do have to be careful about the spring and retention clips..flying about.  The downloadable manual is pretty descriptive about the procedure and it's illustrated as well.  I had no problem with it.  If ya like, I can attempt to post the excerpts of it in this thread?

 

This, others may find important...

If I had a singular gripe on the stick (yesterday) it would be the "sticking base/friction on the plastic base" when moving the stick about it's axis.

So, when I was changing the springs....(as I mentioned earlier), I put some "DRY" teflon powder on the surfaces..I used very little of the powder.  The results, were IMHO...outstanding.  The powder works great...no more "stiction/friction" and the break out forces remain the same.  I would highly recommend this to anyone.  I just don't know where you can obtain the teflon powder anymore...I've had mine for thirty years.  Note to All: I would not and do not recommend that anyone apply any oily or wet carrier type product to this area of the stick as I believe it would attract dust and other abrasives.

 

I just got done with a little test flight before checking back here....I'm really impressed at the moment..and it's hard to be objective....

I'll come back and write some more....when my juices quit flowing. 

[IonicRipper]

Hopefully I should be getting mine back soon. Had to RMA it due to a problem with the stick as some of you know. Really looking forward to flying with it.

[FuriousMeow]

I actually just began experiencing the friction the past few days, and it was accompanied by an audible plastic on plastic thud sound, as opposed to an actual grind, and it was annoying. I play with a headset so its not all that noticeable but I could feel it. It being Sunday here and the local hardware store was closed - I went with the cheap route and ground up some graphite "lead" for a mechanical pencil. For a bit there it made me look like I was cutting up something for a "late night" as I had to crack up a few graphite cylinders and then grind them into powder using a dollar bill and a key but it worked very well. I suspect it won't last long and will have to pick up something that will hold more on the plastic in the long run.

Edited March 3, 2014 by FuriousMeow

[csThor]

Given that my trusty TM Afterburner II gets quite long in the tooth now I think I've found a replacement. Any idea when this is due for release in Germany (sometime April, I think)?

[Pudfark]

I sure wish I could tell ya csThor.   Here in the "states"...availability appears to be hit or miss.

NewEgg, where I purchased mine, seems to have them in stock for less than a day...and then they are sold out for awhile.

I guess, I was lucky to get mine.  The Saitek site...stills shows April as the release date?  

 

What I did....after reading the reviews here...was to "dog" every site I could think of...looking for one..  I got lucky.

I believe this "stick" is worth waiting for and I hope you can get one sooner.

 

I flew co op's in 1946 last night with some members from my squad.  I had a great time and the X55 performed flawlessly.

We were "on" for several hours.  I still have not "played" with the software, so I can't report on that.  So far, I haven't needed to.

 

I believe that if, anybody were to buy the X55 they should know this at the minimum?

It's easy to replace the springs on the stick base, it comes with four of them in different tension strengths, and you may want to do that?

I highly recommend a dry lubricant applied to the bottom of the stick base to reduce friction.

Then....go fly'n.

 

Last dab of thought for the moment?

There are so many buttons, rotaries, switches and sliders....I had to draw a diagram/picture of their placement...just to remember their assignments.

Then again, I'm nearly 60 years old...maybe y'all younger folks, have a better memory   

[JG27_Chivas]

I pre-ordered an X55, yesterday from NCIX, that was due to be shipped on April 2.  Today I recieved an email saying it has been shipped, and it now shows the item is IN STOCK.   I know NCIX has outlets in Canada, and the States, if anyone is interested in buying one now.

[too-cool]

I just got my x55 yesterday and made quick profiles in the HUD for IL2 1946; DCS World; and CLOD.

 

The main problem that I have is that the Space key is not recognized by the game from the stick.  I have the space key in all of the profiles and it does not work in any of the games.  It does work when I test it in the HUD test window, and also in notepad.  But the Space, Enter, and Backspace keys are not recognized in IL2 1946 HXFX7 or stock 4.12.  And Space is not recognized in any of those 3 games.

 

When I go into IL2's controls and click on another command (like gear or flaps) to edit it, and then pull the trigger (space key) on the stick, the game pops up and says that key (enter) is already assigned to Weapon 1.  But when I pull the trigger in the game the guns do not fire.  But if I press the Enter key they do fire.  So this is very strange.  I put in a ticket to Saitek, but this is just weird.

 

The space key does seem to work in FSX, so this is not a very consistent bug..  

DD_Snacko, I have the same problem, just installed my stick today, have you found a solution to this problem?  Thanks TC

[germanicusbradleydog62]

If I use in game controls will the modes be recognized?

[germanicusbradleydog62]

My question above was not clear. If I make the commands thru Saitek software and use 2 or 3 modes, will BoS recognize and accept the commands? I can choose not to use the in games controls? I can also use the in game axis settings or will X55 allow those too. I should get mine in early Apr. I have been using the X52 PRO for many years now and from what I have been reading I am very anxious to get my X55 and reduce my keyboard usage. Thanks...

[Sokol1]

Germanicus

 

At the moment BoS have trouble with external macros, e.g. Ctrl+F (Flaps Up)  you need play with delays in joystick software to fix - or remap Flaps Up for a single key (I use F - up and V - down a la old il-2).

 

This happen with all joystick or key mapper software. Knowing this you can make profiles and switch between then 'on the fly".

 

Sokol1

[Pudfark]

@G...B...D...62

 

Howdy Neighbor,

Not much of an answer from me... It's supposed to, it oughta...  I don't have BOS yet.

I can only remark this...for me, "Mode 1" covers everything in a "single engine" fighter that I need, to play IL2-1946..without touching the keyboard..and I still have more than several assignments vacant.

 

It's been my experience....Sokol1 is smarter than the average bear...

 

You did get me to thinking about?

Mode 1: Take off/Landing settings

Mode 2: Flight/combat settings

Mode 3: Bomber settings

 

Hope ya get yours soon...I'm sure you will enjoy it. 

[JG27_Chivas]

My  X55 arrived today.  Just took it out of the box.  Not happy with the clunky gimbals, and force required to break out of the center position.  Feels a little like the CH gimbal/spring setup.    One of the other springs will likely smooth out the break out pressure, but it may be at the cost of making the stick feel too light overall.   Anyone used to a CH or Saitek spring joystick will probably have no problems, but those that are used to the much smoother break out pressure of the MSFF2 might have more of a problem.   Anyway this is just a quick statement on the joystick.   Hopefully over the next few days I'll to find a spring setup that works better, or make some kind of mod to suit my preference.   I like all the buttons and rotaries on the Throttle, and that it has its own USB plug.  Maybe one of those Momba sticks in-conjunction with X55 throttle might do the trick.  Just some initial thoughts that MSFF2 users might consider before buying.

[germanicusbradleydog62]

Hey Pudfark.. I am 77 and my memory is a real problem..Any observations about controls certainly welcome. I have used the X52 Pro for years. I think the latest software allows modes to be recognized in RoF, CoD, and BoS. But habit and memory problems steered me away from change. With X55, however, I will make a real effort to plot my commands in all 3. It is exercise for me to use my memory and keep going. I fly single only as I am primarily a history buff and the WW1 and 2 memoires and fiction great favorites. It will be great fun to tackle the X55 along with the input from others on this thread. I will shop for grafite powder this week and expect my X55 from Amazon about 4 APR. Cheers to all!

[Nage]

Hey Pudfark.. I am 77 and my memory is a real problem..Any observations about controls certainly welcome. I have used the X52 Pro for years. I think the latest software allows modes to be recognized in RoF, CoD, and BoS. But habit and memory problems steered me away from change. With X55, however, I will make a real effort to plot my commands in all 3. It is exercise for me to use my memory and keep going. I fly single only as I am primarily a history buff and the WW1 and 2 memoires and fiction great favorites. It will be great fun to tackle the X55 along with the input from others on this thread. I will shop for grafite powder this week and expect my X55 from Amazon about 4 APR. Cheers to all!

What happened to your VKB Mamba?? Its the best joystick on the market. Super precise, fully metal mechanism etc etc. Saitek is good only for "i loove many buttons" folks.

Edited March 8, 2014 by tikvic

[Sokol1]

 

Saitek is good only for "i loove many buttons" folks.

 

You need consider too that many players like "play" more with "joystick software" that with games. 

 

I don't "buy" why a joystick button need press a key that will do something in games, preffer that joy buttons just do something direct in games.

 

A "little" history:

 

Back on (OM) il-2 first days I buy a second hand TM F22PTO+TQS, and want use his dual  stage trigger for 1st MG, 2nd Cannon.

 

So I go in Frugalsword an ask for help from some "guru". But no one complicated script proposed work...

 

I decide open the stick grip to investigate how trigger work, and notice that a small rubber pad that press the trigger second stage switch have slip from place.

Fix it and go to test in il-2. And accidentally I discover in game GUI if I press and hold the 1st stage when map then for MG I am able to select Cannon box and map the 2nd stage.

Or, I don't need a software to do what I can do by hardware.

 

After the software give some problems with throttle toggle switch - causing landing gear unexpected drop and rise, so I give up the software completely, and did a "button box" for additional switch's to replace "software modes".

An for end, I find that the pressure need to press the trigger 2nd stage disrupt the aim... and give up to use this.

 

Of course this don't mean that software modes is not useful, just a mater of preference.

 

Sokol1

 

 

 

[Pudfark]

@ Chivas

Your initial impressions are/were similar to my own.  I too, come from using a MSFFB stick (10 years) and I'm still on the fence about this Saitek one.

I believe in some ways it's a more "accurate" stick, while the MSFFB is more of a touch/feel thing stick and in many ways a real "spoiler" compared to other types.  I still have not decided on which to use in the future.  Try the lighter springs included, I'm currently using the second strongest spring and the "dry" teflon powder on the base.....I promise you it makes a big difference and really smooths the breakout force and predictability of the stick.

 

@GBD62

It seems I'm probably going to be stuck on Mode1 for a while...at least another week or two.  Sorry about that...

 

@tikvic

Buttons on the throttle and stick...versus...buttons on the keyboard?  Same thing to me... lol

 

@Sokol1

"I don't "buy" why a joystick button need press a key that will do something in games, preffer that joy buttons just do something direct in games."

I agree.  

 

Update on my X55:  I'm really liking it..a lot.  Other than "messing with the software" (I have not), I would recommend this stick/throttle unit to anyone interested in quality equipment in this price range.  

[Pudfark]

@GBD62

 

I was feeling bad about not being able to give you a better answer about the Modes.

 

I found this below and hope it helps you and any others with a similar question(s).

It's pretty much straight...from the horses mouth.  

 

http://www.simhq.com/hardware/saitek-x-55-rhino-h-o-t-a-s-system-interview-tim-di-iullo-mad-catz.html

[Pudfark]

Urgh...I tried to edit my last post...didn't get back soon enough.  I'm not trying to "spam" this thread, I just found some more useful info.

 

Reviews on the X55 are now being posted, here's a good/useful one in my opinion:

 

http://www.simhq.com/hardware/saitek-x-55-rhino-hotas-review.html/2

 

And a forum on the X55 where it can be discussed and questions asked.

 

http://simhq.com/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/3921343#Post3921343

 

Ok...I'm outta here for awhile...

[Revvin]

@Sokol1

"I don't "buy" why a joystick button need press a key that will do something in games, preffer that joy buttons just do something direct in games."

I agree.  

 

Depends on the game really, sometimes it can be advantageous to be able to program a string of commands, games like Aces High and Warbirds had dot commands to set salvo and timers which meant opening a text window and typing the command, on my HOTAS I programmed it to one button. You may wish to have an eject sequence with a fail safe where you need to press two or three buttons to initiate the sequence, in modern jet sims with even more systems and sequences to remember it can be helpful to have a programmable HOTAS. Also just for ease of use when a new patch clears all your in game mappings or sharing a setup with someone. In game control mapping has become a lot better over the years though but I still like to be able to program mine

[Grifter]

Thanks for the info on the X55 guys, nicely done.

 

With regard to dry lubrication, I have found that graphite powder that I picked up in a small plastic squeeze bottle from Home Depot or Lowes works just fine on any plastic moving parts. I have used it on my Playstation 3 controllers to keep the buttons from getting sticky and repaired one that had the sticktion/friction issue mentioned. Works like a charm and of course it's great for all your home and car door locks, etc. You will definitely notice the difference in locks after using graphite- MUCH smoother action, and the same goes for plastic items. A little goes a long way, and other than a brief wipe to clean up the dust, it's easy.

[VBF-12_Stick-95]

Shame you can't buy just the throttle unit.

Perhaps that'll come later seeing as it has a separate USB connector.

 

Boy, I second that.  Would like to try out that throttle with my MSFFB2.

[germanicusbradleydog62]

Does the software include a button, wheel, slider diagram for planning the commands outline?

[Sokol1]

Germanicus,

 

X-55 manual, some tips about program:

http://www.saitek.com/manuals/X55_Manual_Complete.pdf

 

SimHQ review: http://simhq.com/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/3922213/Re_Saitek_X_55_RHINO_H_O_T_A_S#Post3922213

 

X-55 Q & A: http://support.madcatz.com/Knowledgebase/List/Index/176/x-55-rhino

 

Sample of "advanced" macro - for DCS A-10:

 

 

Sokol1

[FuriousMeow]

Shame you can't buy just the throttle unit.

Perhaps that'll come later seeing as it has a separate USB connector.

 

If it makes financially to Saitek I bet they will, but I also suspect some might go on ebay. Although I have a feeling most will keep the throttle while putting the stick up for auction. Sticks are now a dime a dozen, relatively speaking, but throttles are rare which should give Saitek/Madcatz incentive to sell the throttle unit separately. I

 

Who knows, I'm extremely happy with this product. I was somewhat satisfied with the X52Pro, I was a fan of the X36, but it was just satisfactory, plus I had to modify the hell out of it, and I initially was very wary of my preorder of the X55, however I am totally pleased in every way with it and I have yet to be disappointed with it.

[Warpig]

Thanks for the info on the X55 guys, nicely done.

 

With regard to dry lubrication, I have found that graphite powder that I picked up in a small plastic squeeze bottle from Home Depot or Lowes works just fine on any plastic moving parts. I have used it on my Playstation 3 controllers to keep the buttons from getting sticky and repaired one that had the sticktion/friction issue mentioned. Works like a charm and of course it's great for all your home and car door locks, etc. You will definitely notice the difference in locks after using graphite- MUCH smoother action, and the same goes for plastic items. A little goes a long way, and other than a brief wipe to clean up the dust, it's easy.

What is the name of the lube product that you used? Did you get the spray on, or squeeze bottle?

[Warpig]

You must use a dry powder lube such as Graphite.

Yea, I understand that. But they seem to come in both spray application and in a tube. I was just wondering if anybody could advise a specific produst that gave good results. I've never used anything like this before.

[germanicusbradleydog62]

I bought the spray bottle although years ago I thought they came in syringe like devices.. that is all I found at Lowes.

[csThor]

Just picked mine up from the mail office. Boy, that's a bad a** HOTAS, especially when compared to what it replaced on my desk. I've got the feeling I'll need some time to set it up properly.

[Pudfark]

Congrats  csThor....you will need some time....and will probably need to make a "diagram" of everything.  

[germanicusbradleydog62]

I have an X55 coming next month. Will it be possible to use the in game controls in the 3 modes? I looked over the saitek software which I used some years ago. The new sims ingame controls, especially the COD axis section are very nice and easier to program. Please give me opinions... Thanks