Saitek X52 Flight Control System Review
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I've had at least 15 years of flight sim games using a joystick under my belt, and this is the best stick I've ever used. I will warn in the blurb area: This is not for young kiddies.
I've gone through a Sidewinder Precision pro, a solid Thrustmaster, and at least 3 'child grade' thurstmaster sticks (including at least one Top Gun). That's just the ones I owned, not even what I've used. This stick, which I bought refurbished for less than new, is on year 5 or 6 without any major signs of wear. The only worn part is the S-video type cable that connects the stick and throttle is getting weak (a fix). I've managed to keep it in shape by not playing like I'm 6 again, it otherwise seems to take care of itself well.
The layout makes pretty good sense. All but a few buttons are on the throttle and stick, and the few that aren't can be used for less vital functions. Real pilots do move their hands to change the flaps, lights, and whatnot. The pinkie switch can be moved up for smaller hands, or kept in the same position for larger hands. The safety on the second button is a godsend, it keeps you from making a mistake on the ground or before you're on target. The two-stage trigger is also a wonderful piece of work. A two stage trigger means there are two pulls in it, pull halfway and one function is done. Pull all the way and another is done. More on that later.
Large hands should fit in the stick just fine, so long as it's not a bear claw in there. The hardest areas to reach are the hats on the front of the throttle and top left of the stick, but even those aren't much trouble, just a quick shift away. The suction cups do a reasonable job of keeping it down if you're on a good surface,
The software is important to the stick because it allows all sorts of amenities to come into play. The mouse on the throttle works once it's installed, and it has a left and right click and a wheel. It's not particularly awesome, but it does let you navigate a map on the screen without removing your hands from the stick. The LEDs can be turned down or off here, stick deadzones can be set(if you need a little play in it, whether it's getting old or you're a little shaky), and the current time put in.
You wouldn't think the time would be important, but it'll save you from getting into the game and realizing it's 4am. There's also a stopwatch on the MFD that can help you keep time to know how far you've flown or when to expect a visual on a target. If you forget your buttons often, you can even tell the software which button does what (and in each of the 3 modes), and when you simultaneously press the i button on the throttle and the button you forgot, it says what it does on the MFD. Nifty.
This set is built for complicated sims. If you're playing an arcade flight game or multi-style game (think Battlefield 1942, Nam, 2, 2142, BC, BC2), get a for your stick, this isn't what you want. The massive amount of buttons and layout wonders are for sims like Flight Simulator or IL2 Sturmovik (one of, if not THE, most complicated WWII combat sims out). I don't do much FS because I find it dull. I like to turn, fight, and send my enemies down in flames. This stick lets me do that very effeciently. Il2 allows machine guns and cannons to be fired seperately or together (cannons are just massive guns, often with very limited ammo). I mentioned the 2 stage trigger earlier. I use the first stage for plain guns as I line up and close in on my target, and then use the second stage for both at once when my guns are on target. That saves ammo and the player an edge. The wide range of motion means that gently pulling on the stick is actually good, because a full-motion pull will send you into a stall of death. The wheels on the throttle are great for rudder and elevator trim, and the slider for prop pitch or fuel mixture changes. There is always something to do with this stick, and no button goes unused.
Saitek updates the drivers and software, and while there was a small gap in 64 bit and very (VERY) early Vista support, they took care of their customers and got the updates down. There's also a community of users that can supply fixes/support for older games on their forums and other websites. Look around and you'll find what you need.
Treat this baby well and she'll return the favor. If I was able to test them (and had money to spare), I would look at a Thrustmaster Cougar or X-65, but even this stick will have a few things you may or may not like better. As it stands, I have no reason to switch, and just have all the money saved by it. Cheaper does not equal cheap.
Saitek X52 Flight Control System Feature
- Program your controller for each game using the powerful Smart Technology software.
- Precision centering mechanism; no contact technology on X and Y axes and constant spring force improve control
- 5 position handle adjustment system to suit all hand sizes with soft-touch, contoured grip for maximum gaming comfort.
- Progressive throttle with resistance adjustment and detents for afterburner and idle.
- Illuminated buttons and enhanced gameplay through intuitive LCD Multi-Function Display.
The World's most advanced flight controller The X52 Flightstick and Throttle combination give the most realistic flying experience ever. With the feature-laden Throttle and Stick split into two separate units, the X52 delivers ideal flying position. Programmability and illuminated Multi-Function Display expand the possibilities for Sim Pilots everywhere!
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Needs Modification - J. Heine - Corona, CA
I couldn't seem to play any of my flight games effectively with this stick. The stick will not register pressure until you push it half way to its limit. It's almost impossible to make small adjustments this way. You're forced to have a "meat fist", flopping the stick back in forth, trying to keep something flying level. The magnets (or sensors or whatever), are placed in a way that makes the stick unusable.
It's an easy fix. You can find instructions online. But you have to open it up and mess around. When you see the magnets, it looks almost like a purposefully crappy design, on what would otherwise work great. The magnets are positioned in an obviously stupid way, and you just have to move them. It didn't require any soldering.
I don't see how anyone can use this stick without modifying it. I'm not the type that has to mod everything, but I had no other choice.
I gave this stick 3 stars because it works great after it's modified. Otherwise it would have gotten 1 for being defective in design and unusable.
I do recommend this stick if the price looks good and you don't mind modifying it.
I have heard that the "pro" version of this model has the same problem.
Good so far but some issues though - Dryzzt - Georgia, USA
I like the X52 but for some reason it will not calibrate the joystick to the center, it is stuck in the uppewr left hand corner.
Also, there is no printed manual included, just a dvd and a flyer for the Saitek pedals.
In addition, going to the Saitek website to DL game profiles for FSX and Falcon 4.0 is a pain b/c they do not tell you how to install these profiles. They point you to their forum but trying to search their forum is impossible and fruitless.
I will update this as soon as I get this thing firgured out.
Jun 11, 2010 04:16:04
