Virpil Constellation Alpha Review | The Best Space Sim Stick? | One Year Later

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 เม.ย. 2021
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ความคิดเห็น • 93

  • @brimstone5931
    @brimstone5931 3 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    An excellent and fair assessment of the Constellation Alpha grips. Thanks for taking the time and sharing your thoughts 😎
    I have now had a pair of Alpha's + WarBRD's for a while and I will certainly be getting a couple of those mini-stick covers you recommended.
    Also I would like to add a warning to those buying from Virpil in the future.
    Some people may be expecting plug and play out of the box. These are not, and in the long run that is a good thing. As glanced at, in AF's review the Virpil software has to be used to first recognise and then configure your new Virpil peripherals. This can be daunting for some such as myself who are used to windows recognising everything. After you've done this once tho, you can then plug into any windows machine and your Virpil devices will be recognised and configured.
    After that, then you have the long process of mapping all your buttons. Again daunting, but necessary.
    I used Af's vidio to help me for my mapping for SC ( th-cam.com/video/aNOXErgKpbc/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=AfterimageFlight )
    I don't want to put people off buying from Virpil Controls, their gear, while pricey is undoubtedly the best on the market, I just want new buyers to have realistic expectations.
    Thanks again AF
    (and no, I am in no way afiliated with Virpil Controls 😀)

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Great extra info I probably should have included. Pinned.

    • @brimstone5931
      @brimstone5931 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@AfterimageFlight 😎👍

    • @mirshia5248
      @mirshia5248 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      you forgot that the sticks are plastic and overpriced

    • @brimstone5931
      @brimstone5931 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@mirshia5248 Well actually I did mention they are a bit pricey, but I wouldn't say overpriced. The grips are maybe mostly plastic but they are made from heavy duty high quality plastic screwed together sections. What do you think real joy sticks are made from Dea Pond... wood? 😂

    • @mirshia5248
      @mirshia5248 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@brimstone5931 they are overpriced when you compare them to racing SIM products, and no not wood but if I'm paying such high price I expect metal, once u feel the metal u will never go back, bottom line there is no reason to get virpil products when vkb sticks and base are better in every way and winwing has a better throttle s I'm every way as well

  • @lopaka79
    @lopaka79 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Buy Blue Loctite and apply it on any screw's threads that like to back out. Over tightening could lead to damage on any threaded anchor.

  • @mj-np9sy
    @mj-np9sy 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Your setup was a jump scare. That is wild I feel like a space peasant now

  • @sketchtherapy1218
    @sketchtherapy1218 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    dude you're amazing not just the set up i saw u make some of this stuff custom this rocks

  • @Elguapoe
    @Elguapoe 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You are an absolute madman for having a setup like this. Badass

  • @rvns16th
    @rvns16th 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video! Appreciate the update!

  • @jltb5283
    @jltb5283 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks - excellent review - very helpful!

  • @ghostiespook
    @ghostiespook ปีที่แล้ว

    My God I just found this and your setup is insane. Wish I had something like this

  • @colby4181
    @colby4181 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    holy crap man your setup!!! i love it!

  • @ph11p3540
    @ph11p3540 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    In Canada a pair of Virpil Constellation II grips and Warbird bases will set you back just under $1000 Cdn and for damn good reason too. One look at the inner working mechanism of these sticks you know they are built to last and be as accurate as a Rolex watch. Just got their new throttle block and have a secondary E warfare/radar control box on order from them.

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yeah, nothing else really compares at the price point for how smooth the entire mechanism operates.

  • @codycrusherr
    @codycrusherr ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So I don’t know anything about the settup you have but all those flight control boxes and buttons and your tv settup and desk settup, all the flight controls under your tv, your chair for your sticks and your total settup, I would Apsolutely love LOVE to know your entire full settup indepth and the specific links to everything I need to buy to have the same perfect total settup as you including tv settup and the proper desk or whatever to set things up the way you have it, you really have a special and awesome setup here.

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks! Most of my setup is entirely custom made parts. The main cockpit and all mounts are constructed from 2x3 frame, MDF, plywood and sheet styrene.
      You can see more here: th-cam.com/video/A4pmOzfA3Aw/w-d-xo.html
      And how I built some of it here: th-cam.com/video/-IU6Qd-jLtI/w-d-xo.html
      The electronics that power it are Arduino 2560s running unojoy/megajoy with some of my own code. github.com/AlanChatham/UnoJoy
      The "Targeting Computer" requires beam splitter glass or treated plexiglass to eliminate double reflections. You can buy it from a glass shop or a place that can sell teleprompters.
      Things that you can buy retail:
      Samsung CRG9 monitor.
      VirPil WarBRD Bases
      Virpil Constellation Alpha Grip
      VirPil Constellation Delta Grip (Discontinued by manufacturer, replace with an Alpha)
      MFG Crosswind Pedals
      Thrustmaster Cougar MFD

  • @tyler_clarity
    @tyler_clarity ปีที่แล้ว

    Great Video, what length is the extension for your Alpha grip?

  • @BuzZzKiller
    @BuzZzKiller 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Interesting, I didn't know you could set the analog axis as a button. But now I see the options to do so in the VPC Configurator. I currently use my right thumbstick to emulate a mouse input using the JoyToKey program. It makes looking around with the camera much smoother. I always get weird stutters if I bind it to Look Up/Dn/L/R in Star Citizen.

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, there is a lot you can do by binding parts of the axis to virtual buttons. More than I mentioned in the video too. Making it control the mouse is a good option to keep your hands on the stick in the cockpit for sure.

  • @jetstumpy
    @jetstumpy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That horizontal second stick is such a cool idea

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks! Here's an update on it th-cam.com/video/0aJ9YHi8Q5o/w-d-xo.html

  • @elanazrad7998
    @elanazrad7998 ปีที่แล้ว

    If you set your flip trigger to a toggle button you can use it for missile operator mode when you pull it down since you can’t shoot your guns when in missile mode anyway

  • @fubarace1027
    @fubarace1027 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The analog stick Virpil added both to the Alpha and to their later throttles was added as a response to DCS players who needed a slew control for the A-10C, F-18, and F-16.
    I think the grip size was to cater to people with larger hands. I have large hands and it feels about right. For me, I was concerned the adjustable hand rest wouldn't go low enough. It's lowest setting works for me, thankfully. I have left and right alphas, a throttle, pedals, and 2 z grips. I love all of it for SC and DCS. I wasn't sure I'd get enough out of the pedals to get my money's worth, but after experimenting with controls there, I'm really glad I have them. I also wasnt sure about the z grips, but I like em on both sticks.
    Love your pit btw, I collect images of people's pits so when SC is changing less, I can make my own. And starting to think about the button boxes.

  • @LordTrig00
    @LordTrig00 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I just ordered the dual Alpha and warbird 2 weeks ago on backorder. I've been looking for a review of some that's had them for longer then 6months. This video was helpful I just wish I could find someone that uses the twist axis, and tell me how it holds up

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I haven't really used the twist on the Alpha, but it feels identical to the Delta, which I use all the time. It's pretty accurate and smooth considering the short travel distance it has to work with.

  • @Spelljammer1
    @Spelljammer1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you for this excellent review. It nudged me towards trying Virpil, after years of VKB service. :)
    I like your arguments for the Delta in the left hand scenario. I wonder how would you compare the efficacy of your thumbstick-based movement in the first person walking mode in Star Citizen?
    I was always a WASD player in FPS or Bethesda style exploration games, but I imagine the analog movement is worth the effort for precision. But I wonder about the other keybindigs, the use key, jump, lean etc. on the grip.

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It works really great - especially when paired up with a mouse that has a ton of buttons. You can see how it all gets bound here: th-cam.com/video/EXwLC2blftg/w-d-xo.html

  • @CaffeineInjected
    @CaffeineInjected 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm new to star citizen. I'm going to buy the MonsterTech chair mount and I want to go with a dual stick setup mounted on that mount. What is the best dual stick you might recommend? Thanks!

  • @fierox88
    @fierox88 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great setup! Found it a hard choice to pick between Virpil and VKB. I ended up going with 2x VKB Kosmosima on GF3 bases myself. Another space alternative that might be good to mention here.

    • @quadroph0eniX
      @quadroph0eniX 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same here. But coming from the Saitek X65Rhino (NOT 56!!!) I am hell bent for metal. So, Idecided to ditch the HOSAS approach for starters, stick with the X65 throttle for sims and 3D Connexion controler for space nd got me a MCG Ultimate and I'm not loking back. Given the regular MCG only differs in being ABS like the Aplpha and the excellent customizable Gunfighter Base at a lower price, I have no hesitance to give VKB my recommendation, too. Left, I'm yet undecided, IF I update the throtthle it'll be the Virpil III, if HOSAS probably the Kosmosima, but again with Gunfighter Base and no spring dry clutch

    • @PredatorMounts
      @PredatorMounts 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I had 2x Gladiator NXT's but I just ordered my first GF3 with MCGu grip - best stick/base on the market, hands down - but Virpil is a close second.

  • @johnpap9328
    @johnpap9328 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for this review. I have already ordered an alpha with a warbrd base and eagerly waiting for it. Where did you find these rubber cups for the axis hat? They're very nice

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      There are ones like these and similar. www.amazon.com/Silicone-Joystick-Protect-Controllers-PlayStation-3/dp/B073ZWZVLT/

  • @ceruleanskies1414
    @ceruleanskies1414 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Any reason you didn't use something like red Threatlocker to tighten the anti-twist screw?

  • @Iymarra
    @Iymarra 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Reckon the constellation would be usable on warbrd base on top of a desk, with no mounting bracket? Need to replace my x52 and it's constellation or warthog for options.

  • @bigskydude8068
    @bigskydude8068 ปีที่แล้ว

    Where did you get the caps for the mini-sticks?

  • @NanaHoshi35
    @NanaHoshi35 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for making this detailed and solid review. I have a question though: Is it possible to set the movements of the "mouse wheel" as two buttons through the software?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes, it should act like that by default if you don't change anything.

    • @NanaHoshi35
      @NanaHoshi35 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@AfterimageFlight Thx for the information!

  • @asymsolutions
    @asymsolutions 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I wonder how hard it would have been for virpil to do the alpha's what VKB did with the gladiators for twist lockout. On the gladiator, you can put in a screw to lock out the axis. It works and is dummy proof vs a clutch.

  • @almkicker
    @almkicker 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome video! Which button caps do you use?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      www.amazon.com/Silicone-Joystick-Protect-Controllers-PlayStation-3/dp/B073ZWZVLT/
      Ones like these, there's a bunch of versions like them.

  • @j.d.4697
    @j.d.4697 ปีที่แล้ว

    In what ways is it better than the VKB Gunfighters though?

  • @Wh1terider
    @Wh1terider 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    AI. Not to sway from the Virpil Ecosystem, but I'm curious. Have you tried a VKB MCG Pro (latest metal rev)?
    Its Gimbal system and customizable modules are amazing. I feel this is arguably one of the best right handed flight sticks on the market.
    Thoughts?

  • @randyscharf1505
    @randyscharf1505 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    please can you help me i want to do the change colour thing like u did for ur throttle! i have the constellation prime is it posiable i trid ur way didnt work

  • @VanFS3K
    @VanFS3K 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I might have missed it in the video, but do you use the optional CosmoSim Cams?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I actually found that I prefer the regular cams. Probably cause I'm used to flying in flight sims.

  • @JohnVanderbeck
    @JohnVanderbeck 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Does the Viripil software let you setup mode/modifier buttons to change the behaviour of others? IE maybe the scroll wheel is mapped to adjust throttle power in SC but with a press in, it changes to control miner laser power?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, it does. You can see me use it here: th-cam.com/video/EXwLC2blftg/w-d-xo.html

  • @GrimGearheart
    @GrimGearheart 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Will the joystick take any joystick cover? Like one designed for console controllers?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, it's the same size as a Xbox or PS controller's sticks. So any of those should work.

  • @TheCrash1983
    @TheCrash1983 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    have had the same problem with the control hat, and wish the groves on the thumb hat where a bit more defined for a better grip other then that its pretty perfected

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, it could be a bit better. It's not as well "defined" as the other ones.

    • @TheCrash1983
      @TheCrash1983 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@AfterimageFlight could use some milliput to give it a ridge to it but would hurt resale value a small strip of tennis bat handle grip rap could add grip put some round my joystick so i dont have to waer gloves. ;-)

  • @kooogt
    @kooogt ปีที่แล้ว

    My yaw spring broke after 2 years, when from I bought it, maybe only used it for 1 year. Even out of warranty virpil showed goodwill and offered to repair it for free.

  • @daveyjoneslocker4703
    @daveyjoneslocker4703 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Is there any reason I shouldn’t or couldn’t offset mount my left hand Alpha like you have your delta? Just can’t get that idea out of my head since I’ve seen it here.

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      There's no reason you couldn't do it if you have room. It would work identically for the Alpha the way it works for the Delta.

  • @frankbizzoco1954
    @frankbizzoco1954 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just ordered the Constellation for DCS, and Star Citizen and I'm very excited to replace my X-56. Just curious, what ship are you flying in star citizen?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sabre, Vanguard, Redeemer are currently the ones I use.

  • @SwissKnightRyder
    @SwissKnightRyder 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    im very in to this since i saw this video, if i would build this set up with 2 alphas, is there any software/keybinding setup for Star citizen to download? i never had sticks and considering the price point i fear im not able to set up the software and thats a bit sad

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The Virpil sticks have software you need to use to initially configure them, but Star Citizen does not require any additional software to detect the sticks after you do the initial setup of the sticks.

  • @Wolfentodd
    @Wolfentodd 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Do you have a video for your bindings in star citizen (just don’t know what to do with all those hats LMAO)

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      th-cam.com/video/EXwLC2blftg/w-d-xo.html This is the most recent one.

  • @Trbrigade
    @Trbrigade 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi fellow virtual pilots! Need to replace my old X52 flightstick! I decided with a grip . This would be "Alpha Constellation". But what is the best base for "Constellation"? It will be used mostly for military simulators. It will be used first on the table. But in the future I plan to move flight control under the table. But I'm in doubt. What is the best base to buy? Is it true that Mongoose base is better quality than Warbird base? Or are they the same? For me, it is the quality of the base, the "clear center" , the absence of central backlash and the response to the handle deflection is the most important. The rest I can get used to. What would you suggest?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      The main difference is that the WarBRD has a higher amount of deflection, and isn't designed to be used with extensions, while the Mongoose base has a lower amount of deflection. Both are not a problem to use with extensions though if they have enough clearance around them. I believe the difference is 22 degrees on the WarBRD and 16 on the Mongoose.
      The WarBRD is a lot cheaper though.
      Both of my sticks just use WarBRD bases, and the right stick is on a 50cm extension. Both of my sticks use the heavy spring set.
      The Mongoose base can be adjusted on the fly, where as the WarBRD needs to be opened to change the springs out for a different feel.
      If you plan on using the Virpil mounts and want to extend the stick, go with the Mongoose, if you plan on using it without the Virpil mounts, or with no extensions on the Virpil mounts, use the WarBRD.

  • @gregorypruitt5068
    @gregorypruitt5068 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Is the mini stick the same size as a XBox stick? So, will XBox caps fit the mini stick on the Alpha?

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah the caps will fit, they are practically the same mini stick, just the material they are made of seems to be different.

  • @crazys8s
    @crazys8s 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That custom throttle, did you mod it yourself? Or tell virpil what you wanted and they did the mod? If you did it yourself how and what did you do? Cuz that angled throttle looks sick and like it'd feel very natural

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The one in this video I made myself. Virpil did not make one at the time, but it has been a few years now and they make their own "Z Extension" that accomplishes the same thing.

  • @Ruthless9o7
    @Ruthless9o7 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My wife is so mad I found this channel 🤣😂😭

  • @danielpray6049
    @danielpray6049 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I think the layout of some of the buttons and the analog stick to be moved around. I use the yaw axis on the stick and due to the shape of the grip, it is pretty uncomfortable to use the yaw as well as pressing either of the 2 buttons at the same time.

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They definitely could be in some better spots.

  • @AgnosiaAgnosis
    @AgnosiaAgnosis ปีที่แล้ว

    What’s it like having $? Lol wtf I’ve never seen such things haha pretty cool ya hoser!

  • @0Metatron
    @0Metatron 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That desk is insane 😱😱
    I don’t know why sticks don’t have more luxurious spongy padded parts on the grips or at least more of a rubberised feel instead of basic moulded plastic and metal parts

    • @Diogenes76
      @Diogenes76 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This is not a great idea because that stuff starts to degrade after time and gets sticky. You end up having to scrub it all off.

    • @0Metatron
      @0Metatron ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Diogenes76 it comes off easy if I want it too.

    • @SquarelyGames
      @SquarelyGames 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      As someone who just had an X-56 sold, I had to scrub it like crazy. The rubber was extremely degraded. It's also toxic in that state. Hard plastic is much better.

  • @lyianx
    @lyianx 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Sorry, i dont agree with your Analog stick position. As someone with larger hands, i prefer it off to the side and find it easy to reach. And as i dont use *too* often, i prefer it out of the way during combat.

  • @declinox
    @declinox 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That is one badass setup you have there!
    I have a couple of Deltas, and modded them with additional analog throttles as described in my video here: th-cam.com/video/yKZcli14wgs/w-d-xo.html I think I would like to upgrade to Alphas, and I would want to make the same mod to them that I made to the Deltas, as I find it indispensable... but I'm not sure where on the stick I would physically put it :-/

  • @Joostmhw
    @Joostmhw ปีที่แล้ว

    Don't love the way this begins as a if you want an answer go watch something else. I clicked for the video not the other stuff

  • @Timmeification
    @Timmeification 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Got dizzie watching the gameplay. What did he say. And that fifty times. I think I'm going to puke. 🤮

    • @AfterimageFlight
      @AfterimageFlight  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      If this one makes you dizzy, you probably shouldn't look at this one: th-cam.com/video/U2zskuJkduw/w-d-xo.html

  • @element-dh9dx
    @element-dh9dx ปีที่แล้ว

    Clean your keypad, ew. All you need is some G force.

  • @erzr
    @erzr 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    do you think your sell this when you discover girls?