Yes, and the quality and support went down the tubes. I cannot recommend CH any longer.
I cannot recommend any CH products controllers that are newer models, actually some of the models that were produced in that last year before CH products came under new ownership... If memory serves me right, that is approximately the time the quality came into question
I know I, personally, loaded up on the earlier made fightersticks / pro throttles and several pro rudder pedals...even had several of the earlier products produced after ownership switched hands, which most were OK, some were not worth messing with...
I know I have the series/serial number(s) filed away from the before and after CH products ownership change
Ack Ack is our resident community member that in my view is the most knowledgeable about CH products, he was CH products rep back in the mid 90's
I havent owned a Thrustmaster's T1600M stick / hotas etc, but do own the predecessor to the T1600/T1600M (which is basically identical to the T1600 and T1600M stick, it's just the stick only though)
I too, think and recommend the Thrustmaster's T1600M stick/throttle combination for new players and even existing players...if they are wanting to save money
For the diehard joystick/hotas longtime players that can afford it, I would recommend reading up on and researching the "VKB" line of controllers....which some/most are able to enterchange with thrustmaster base(s) of the Cougar/Warthog Thrustmaster's....if memory serves me right
Don't be discouraged from buying used CH products controllers if the price is right and they are in good condition or better....if they dont serve to your liking or comfort, you can always resell them
Hope this is helpful
TC