New to DCS - Is this the right HOTAS choice?

[NEECH]

Hey all, as the title states, I'm new to the DCS but not sims in general. I've been using the Logitech yoke/throttle/pedals for a while in MSFS and X-Plane. Since AH-64D was announced for DCS, I've been drooling over Wags' demo videos. So, I want to invest in a HOTAS that's right for the Apache. Here's what I've selected:

Winwing Tech
Black Shark Collective Grip $300
Orion Throttle FA-18 $235
Foxx Desk Mount Beam Assembly $60
Foxx Mounting Plate for the Orion Throttle $35

Vipril Controls
VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Base $290
VPC Constellation ALPHA-R $200
VPC Desk Mount V4 - S $45
VPC Desk Mount V4 Adapter - MongoosT-50CM2 Base $25

I also use a Stream Deck for MSFS, which I'll utilize. I went with the Orion FA-18 throttle so I could use it for both the collective, then convert it back if I want to use it with fixed-wing aircraft. I like the Scroll Encoder on the Constellation for zoom, which is why I choose that stick. Pedals, I figured I would use the Logitech's for now since these parts alone will be around $1300 USD with shipping… big ouch. So, is this an ideal setup for the 64? It's a lot of money, but if it's worth it, I'll take the hit once I sell a kidney.

Edited April 1, 2022 by NEECH

[LooseSeal]

Definitely a decent order you've got there I've just ordered a Virpil throttle and Constellation - an upgrade from a Warthog setup. I think that will be more than enough for me, along with my MFG Crosswinds.

So... what are you planning on connecting the collective grip to? I'm not that familiar with Winwing, but I imagine you need a base too? Also not sure why you need the Black Shark grip if, as you say, you're going to use the F-18 throttle as a collective. So maybe get rid of the collective grip?

The only thing I would say is you're (in my opinion) outweighing the necessity of a throttle/collective with regards to the pedals - the pedals are much more important for helicopters. If I were you I'd keep your current throttle for a while and get a decent set of pedals instead, then when you can afford it get a throttle or collective.

[NEECH]

2 minutes ago, LooseSeal said:

Definitely a decent order you've got there I've just ordered a Virpil throttle and Constellation - an upgrade from a Warthog setup. I think that will be more than enough for me, along with my MFG Crosswinds.

So... what are you planning on connecting the collective grip to? I'm not that familiar with Winwing, but I imagine you need a base too? Also not sure why you need the Black Shark grip if, as you say, you're going to use the F-18 throttle as a collective. So maybe get rid of the collective grip?

The only thing I would say is you're (in my opinion) outweighing the necessity of a throttle/collective with regards to the pedals - the pedals are much more important for helicopters. If I were you I'd keep your current throttle for a while and get a decent set of pedals instead, then when you can afford it get a throttle or collective.

Hey, glad to hear I'm going in the right direction. Thanks.

The Winwing collective attaches to the Orion base, replacing the normal controller. So, it's the best of both worlds depending on what I am flying, however the change-over is far from quick, I think, so I would have to be dedicated to what I'm flying for at least a little while.

Regarding the pedals; you're saying I would hate flying a helicopter with the Logitech pedals? I don't really care for them either, but I can live with them to save some cash for now. But if it's a fact that they suck with the 64, I will upgrade.

[LooseSeal]

1 hour ago, NEECH said:

Regarding the pedals; you're saying I would hate flying a helicopter with the Logitech pedals?

Oh I wouldn't want to say that you'd hate it. But when I transferred from my old Thrustmaster pedals to MFG Crosswinds last year, I noticed a huge difference in the ability to accurately control helicopters' torque. It's much less important for fixed-wing, of course.

My point was... controlling the collective requires less sensitivity (in my opinion) than controlling the anti-torque. So if you're building a system specifically designed towards a helicopter module, then I'd value better pedals over a better throttle/collective. It depends how good the Logitech pedals are/how accurate they are. I've never used them, so I don't really know.