Italy’s DEM Racing Simulators have released a video previewing their DRS Integrale wheel prototype. We’ve seen a mockup of the final production unit previously but this is the first time we get to see – and hear – it.
[youtube]http://youtu.be/6Hv3xn7ymzI[/youtube]
Like other videos of its ilk, it’s hard to draw too many conclusions. One thing that is certainly noticeable is the noise that the Logitech G27 like gears make from quick inputs. They’re pretty loud. With that said, the video has to be taken with a grain of salt. It is a prototype and a naked one at that, exacerbating the sound. We really won’t have a good feel for the sound until the wheel’s production enclosure is attached.
Of course, this is one of the drawbacks of using gears. They tend to be loud and notchy. This is why the (higher end) wheel industry has moved from gear driven to belt driven to servo driven. Belts eliminate the noise and notchiness of the gears but are proned to loosen up over time. Servos improve on the belt by eliminating the degradation of a belt while providing higher forces. This makes the gear choice interesting. Not necessarily wrong, but there are some significant fundamental challenges that DEM must overcome.
It will also be interesting to see what steering wheel will be paired to the motor. DEM have shown off a few different wheels between photos and this video. The wheel in the video looks like a beefier version of their DRS Wheel. Hopefully there are some less expensive wheel options like a “bring your own wheel” option that other manufactures offer these days. Pricing information is not yet available.
Unless they price to compete with the likes of Thrustmaster T500, perhaps the Clubsport, this wheel is probably already irrelevant. By the looks of it the Accuforce has taken it to the next level
For the type of money these wheels are probably going to cost, over $500 is my guess, they should work with at least one platform of console. I race PC and PS3 now and next Fall I am planning on adding a PS4. Make one line that does PS and one that does XBox One, would be my input. Best if one would do all, but that is unlikely. I know, they have their “security codes” that limit manufacturers. I just don’t have the room or money to have multiple separate setups. My PS3 is on left side and PC on right, I just move the wheel and shifter plugs and change monitor inputs.