Manna From Heaven or More Headaches?

[kbman]

Hi Folks!
         Today I received a brand new MS Precision2 FFB joystick. The problem is that it was a warranty replacement from MS for a standard Precision2 joystick, NOT a FFB. Now normally, getting a $129.00 product to replace a $40.00 one for free would be considered a great bit of luck...BUT, I have never used a FFB stick and never really wanted one. I have always used a Pre Pro USB and since March a Precision 2 USB. My question then is, does anyone have experience with this stick and the standard model? Do they perform similarly? If I decide not to use the FFB features will I still need to relearn all my stick input responses? Does it calibrate as accurately and reliably as the standard model.( I have NEVER had to calibrate my Pre Pro in AH and it NEVER spikes). Should I be happy? Is there any issues that I should be aware of or should I immediately contact MS for another replacement of my standard Precision 2? All help appreciated in making this momentous decision  

kbman

[bloom25]

I'm using that stick with the FFB disabled in AH.  I like it a lot.  My only complaint with it is that if you take your hand off the stick there is a sensor that turns off the motors, so it could fall to one side.  (You could put some tape over the sensor, but I don't know if this would wear out the motors very quickly.)

The feel of the stick is very similar to the Precision Pro, but you can pick how much spring force you want.  (I like medium myself.)

No spiking at all on my system.  

I suppose if you didn't like it, you could sell it and then buy a Pre Pro 2 again.  

[Pongo]

KB
quit stick stiring and they will last longer...

[Hooligan]

FFB is interesting but also a pain.

It is nice that you can feel progressively more stick pressure under higher G's and as compressibility sets in.  Edge-of-stall warning is definitely more distinct.

However, sometimes the stick is very stiff and sometimes it is quite light.  If you are used to non FFB this means that aiming can become difficult since you are used to a given amount of control pressure yielding a given amount of control movement.  I tried an FFB for a couple of weeks and never got past the point where I was over or under controlling when I was lining up for a shot.  Eventually I couldn't stand my crappy shooting with FFB and gave it up.  On the other hand, a close friend switched from a precision pro 2 to FFB and loves it.

Hooligan

[kbman]

Thanks Guys,
             I flew with it yesterday and last night and I think I'll keep it. I have been using the Low Force setting and tuning that down in AH to 10% for very subtle but noticable effects. I may end up coming to the same conclusion as you and disabling FFB altogether. In the meantime, it seems to be a very nice stick with smooth, accurate inputs and the controlable tension is an excellent benefit, albeit one that I wouldnt be inclined to spend 3 times more for if I had had to purchase it outright. Thanks again for your feedback. Cya up!

kbman

[Tac]

kbman, im trying to get a stick with FFB, I've searched Best Buy and other stores for the Precision 2 FFB and they dont have it.

Is it a SIDEWINDER FFB2 or is it called PRECISION FFB2?
 http://www.microsoft.com/catalog/display.asp?subid=22&site=10517&x=12&y=15

or this one:
 http://www.microsoft.com/catalog/display.asp?subid=22&site=10560&x=25&y=14

?

[ 07-14-2001: Message edited by: Tac ]

[kbman]

Sorry TAC,
          The new stick is a Sidewinder Force Feedback 2, the old one was a Precision 2. So far I like it alot but I probably wouldnt pay $129 as opposed to $39 for it   Its an excellent stick. Software installed flawlessly and performance is excellent although I am using very low settings for Forces. I bought mine from MS directly and as a result the warranty replacement was immediate and hasslefree...until they sent the wrong stick...  

kbman

[Tac]

oh well, at least I got some exercise to thank you for  

Im loathe to buy an MS product, but i'll give it a try, thank heavens for the 14 day return policy