Somnium VR1 PRICE CHANGE! But Should YOU BUY One? The BRUTAL TRUTH! VR1 vs Quest 3 vs Pimax Crystal

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Fancy a Somnium VR1? Order now before the price goes up very soon! store.somniumspace.com/ (not affiliated)

[@cessna18284]

The VR tech is progressing so fast so i believe paying 3500pounds ++ for a headsett thats outdated in 2-3 years from now is to much. Great video btw.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Much appreciated 😊

[@jessiestarr4600]

If want a cheaper headset for 2000 wait for megane x super light x 8k

[@jessiestarr4600]

I do agree with you for not having 4k resolution it is expensive

[@Stuwie1976]

depends on what you do, this headset still will not have a computer 3 years from now that can handle race sims on full res. Your argument only holds for vr desktop, But games this res in vr? Dude....

[@briank3754]

Build quality aside, the Somnium will be outdated within a couple months. Outside of its mixed reality capabilities, it really doesn’t off much when compared to new headsets entering the market.

[@jmizzonini]

I'm a real world pilot, and nothing really matters on these headsets as far as resolution at this point - what we need is some kind of development to achieve a truly wide real world FOV. I love my VR flight sim setup but the limiting factor with what feels different from what you see in real world is the FOV. Landing in VR is more difficult than real life because you lose that peripheral vision.

[@Stuwie1976]

Maybe, but what kinda computer you going to use? Higher res also means less framerate, Allready a big problem.

[@walltar]

Yeah... i think that 35PPD is good enough resolution to even see things in distance. So while 50+ PPD is definitelly nice thing to have, we don't have strong enough machines to run it out of few games. When I ordered VR1 it was pretty much only headset offering over 120HFOV + 35PPD (I have 122 - 128 based on what face foam I use) and I still don't think that it is enough. As for the FOV... It will take some time, but it is coming. Some time back I was able to try a 180HFOV pancake lens prototype from Hypervision (they only make lenses) and boy, i think that is the future of VR I want.

[@johncrichton4341]

And therein is the real problem. It's perhaps NOT about massive PPD/resolution etc. but more about realistic FOV - that makes sense to me.

[@a5cent]

@@Stuwie1976 "Higher res also means less framerate" This is just wrong. SFR and DFR solves framerate problems, no matter the resolution. It's not an issue. Unless VR goes mainstream and becomes the primary gaming display used by most people, no GPU will ever be able to drive higher-end VR headsets at native resolutions. When new GPUs come out that can run the last generation's games, software will catch up and demand stronger GPU's. VR headsets, because of the much higher resolutions, will always struggle without some trickery. We just need to accept that and make use of the trickery. Hence SFR and DFR.

[@FlightSims-v4p]

I agree with you. I always look at FOV first, that's why I had a Index and now a Crystal. I am now in the hunt for my next headset and the Somnium looks promising, but cost is holding me back. The front heaviness of it is causing me to pause. I guess I am just patient and looking for the next best thing before I go and pull the trigger.

[@agordon20024]

Hope to hear your review of the Pimax Crystal Super in the near future. Keep the reviews coming, Steve. You're doing a wonderful job, mate.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Thankyou that means a lot ❤️

[@MrCrrispy]

..and the Dream Air!

[@ivaniuk123]

I'll wait for the pimax super reviews.

[@Nobody-Nowhere]

They are approaching Varjo XR4 pricing, i wonder why didn't they go with a 4k4k panels like Varjo. Then it might make more sense. I dont expect the panels to be what makes this expensive.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

I guess it depends how much the price is going up. I don't believe it's going to be a huge jump and in many ways, this is a better headset anyway. Thanks for your comments.

[@walltar]

Most likely because those panels did not exist back when they started to develop VR1. And since they have lenses made specificaly for those panels, changing that would not make a sense for a company small as Somnium.

[@dtz1000]

You're paying for the high wages of Europeans. That's why it's so expensive.

[@pn2422]

It doesn't matter if it's 1$ or 10000$ you still can't buy one, and if you pre -order one right now by the time you get it it will be outdated. There are literally more Ferrari Enzo owners out there than people who got their VR1.

[@cyphre]

I remember when this HMD was first announced; all the best features you could want, and modular (or at least modifiable). Then it launched, and the price immediately put it into the 'business/commercial' category; by which I mean, a price a company can write off and never care, but far beyond something a consumer could ever think about. At 2500 starting, with only a display and eye tracking, you're better off getting literally anything else and buying a new GPU for less the price.

[@deluge6479]

It's the price of a full PC setup with a Quest 3. And you'll have 100 left over for snacks

[@Stuwie1976]

there people who spend that money on a monitor? Also you have a hobby or not, it's not something you buy just to test.. Because it's not for you doesn't mean someone else doesn't like it. Seen people lighting fireworks last new years eve that cost's more then this headset. It's where you wanne spend your money. It's just you don't. Also some people don't like it when there info is used and if you don't agree you can't use the device.

[@somerandomperson8282]

No ****ing way is this headset worth almost 3000 EUR after tax, especially as Somnium are struggling to deliver any headsets. The VR-1 is going to look and feel outdated by the end of 2025.

[@HowlerBikeVlogs]

i can almost guarantee you that it will only get better with time, 4090 can't even run the thing at full resolution, unless you're happy with a slideshow. once we get gpu's that can push this thing to 120hz at full res, it will feel and look like an entirely new headset. the lenses are insane, sweet spot is huge, it almost makes no difference if ipd is correct or not. and with the open source platform you can adjust and alter whatever you want on it, either by 3d printing stuff yourself or attaching pre-existing parts like for instance, quest 2 straps are a straight fit. i payed slightly over 3k euro, and i think it's worth every euro.

[@deluge6479]

​@@HowlerBikeVlogsby the time those GPUs come out, this headset will be outdated. That's the point

[@deluge6479]

​@@HowlerBikeVlogsyou paid 3k for a headset, get help lmao. It's not worth 3x the price of the Bigscreen beyond

[@somerandomperson8282]

@@HowlerBikeVlogs That isn't true, a RTX4090 can run 35PPD in many VR games. And yeah of course you have clear bias here on this topic, you bought one for 3000EUR, which is of course fine and I hope you enjoy it. However, to me no way is it worth 3k and as I said I think this very delayed VR1 headset will age fast as newer and improved tech is released this year.

[@HowlerBikeVlogs]

@somerandomperson8282 okay fair enough. My 4090 does run the vr1 very well, but not at max resolution and 90fps, at least not at the same time. And as far as new tech goes, they could offer upgrade packages so people can modify or upgrade their headsets at home, i believe they are actually working on making all parts available for purchase so i could upgrade mine eventually to a titan if i add the mr camera module and the handtracking module. Perhaps they could even create better versions later on like a lensebox replacement with better lenses or high res oled panels

[@paulsleighty]

Are somnium making there own panels, as surely if they are buying them from a panel manufacturer and rejecting faulty ones they'd be getting replacements without cost to them other than time.

[@davidjames7382]

From $2500 for standard version, titan is $2900, and the Ultimate edition is $3500. This is in USD. Its fricken ridiculous. Who TF would pay for this? When the Varjo came out, same kind of cost as Somnium VR1 as now. No fricken way.

[@walltar]

It was 4300€ for me thanks to bloody taxes here. Why not pay for it? I would not buy anything from Pimax, does not like their practices and XR4 seemed to pretty plagued with problems at launch. I got to try the headset before buying it in Prague and I really liked what I saw. Meganex might bring interesting competitor soon... but i would not sacrifice FOV to have better clarity at this point. Because clarity of VR1 is already so good, that I am not bothered by it.

[@TRX25EX]

​@@walltarBro what is coming in 2025 throws this and many others out of equation. Just wait for new Google XR headsets + Valve Deckard + Pimax Super + new Vision Pro 2

[@walltar]

@@TRX25EX Vison Pro 2 is not a PCVR headset. Valve did not announce anything so it coming in 2025 is a speculation like that it was coming in 2024. Never heard anything about Google XR is it a PCVR with DP connection? And as for Pimax anything... no thanks. I am good... I was tired of waiting and I am pretty sure that I will be happy with VR1 for a quite a long time... 4090 can't run it 100% res in basically anything, so 5090 and VR1 seems like good combination for few years... Once 6090 or maybe 7090 hits, i will then look on what is on the market and probably buy something new. If there is anything with at least 120 degrees FOV.

[@artursychov]

Many people pay for this :)

[@artursychov]

@@TRX25EX rofl you are living i na dream. Time to wake up :-D

[@seattime4075]

That's just too expensive and they look too front heavy. Happy to wait for a meganex or something similar.

[@rudlzavedno7279]

AVP set a bar at 3500 bucks, now everyone wants a piece of the hi-end pie. The problem is not everyone is Apple. I'd never spend +3500€ on a headset manufactured by a company that could go under water any day. I'm gonna sit on my hands through 2025 to see what Samsung, Asus, Lenovo, maybe Valve bring out and then decide what to get. G2 and Q3 will have to be enough until then.

[@nicksimonian8755]

Im still waiting for mine to arrive. Excited for it to show up but it looks like factory output is about 3 units per day. Hopefully they can ramp production up a bit in the coming months...Its going to be a minute.

[@volman13n0]

Pimax light is so frustrating. Software use to lock my pc upon start up but they got that fixed. Buttttt I have never found a way to get the lenses to look right. I gives me a headache because although it's super clear it doesn't look quite right. Like the screen is warped or something.

[@SurfVR]

Why did this video feel forced? I dont get it. People already know this stuff. Someone at Somniun wants a return from their marketing investment by the looks of it.. Im sorry.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Nah. Quite the opposite actually. I made this video because I wanted to share my thoughts

[@gaminginstilllife9429]

I paid 850 for a Pimax crystal light and get about just as good resolutions. And i have a 9800x3d with 4080super and cant even get close to maxing the headset out

[@stevetb7777]

He just said it's the same panel as the Somnium VR1

[@rodpitcock6730]

I’m looking at several high-end headsets that I can afford, but what’s up with the latest trend of not being able to get a refund or return the item. I refuse to spend 2 to 3 thousand dollars on the Internet without an option to return.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

I don't know, I feel like the trend is the other way around. When I've bought things in the past, I don't ever remember having the option to return it for a full refund just because I don't like it.

[@EscapeRealityMedia]

If the company fails to deliver what they promised and what you expected from them than you should have the right to return it for a full or partial refund I'm sure they know theyre losing alot of sales do to the no return policy so I don't really understand their logic

[@gyeltsen]

Thanks for the update, Steve. Do you happen to know if the BoboVR M3 Pro head strap would fit as well as the M2 Pro? How would you describe the sound quality of the HTC Deluxe audio strap? Do you use lens protector inserts on yours?

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

My pleasure. I don't believe the new one fits. I have not tried the HTC strap yet but I'm tempted to buy one soon. I currently don't have any lens inserts with mine, thanks for reminding me to get some sorted 😅

How much of an improvement would you say this is vs the Aero and also, how do you think the VR1 compares to the MeganeX Superlight 8K?

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

I will tell you soon, once I receive the Meganx for a full review :)

Looking forward to it 👍 What about the VR1 vs Aero - a worthy upgrade?

[@Lisa-Azra_Broad]

I will stick with my HP reverb G2 and windows 10

[@johncrichton4341]

Totally agree. However, there will (sadly) be a time when the headset and/or the OS will not work. I've got a G2 and I'm disgusted at Microsoft for this decision...

[@laartwork]

G2 was like looking through a toilet paper roll. I couldn't stand it. The pimax crystal was a huge step up but honestly I play Quest 3 more because everything runs good and no cable.

[@johncrichton4341]

@@laartwork Not sure about the toilet roll analogy but the G2 was based on much older technology than the Pimax and Q3 so perhaps not a fair comparison?

[@tmoshamo]

​@@laartworki agree it is kinda narrow. I will use it until microsoft kills it 😢

[@FlightSims-v4p]

Yeah but how long are you going to use windows 10 without the security support from Microsoft?

[@lurchilurch5507]

Do you see the warping mainly in the right lense, like many seem to be reporting?

[@FlightSimmer75]

So I have both PCL AND the Q3, how do you switch between the two on same system? Just curious if you are unpluggin the PCL first to avoid conflicts? Thanks for any help!! Keep up the great work man!

[@HeadsetHistorian]

Just shut down pimax play, no need to disconnect the headset.

[@sg0101010]

“It is sharper than the Crystal” - can you explain why ? Same res and PPD so not sure how

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

I've explained why in many of my other VR1 videos 👍

[@sg0101010]

VR1 is going backwards, they aren’t offering the value for the dollar. It was already too expensive. I’d never buy one unless I was desperate. Please include price of 3rd party base stations as well. Them not going inside out was a bad decision as well. Definitely would promote a super ahead of their headsets

[@jonasfogelberg9300]

No audio in the headset?

[@pergon9773]

The price has gone up??? Isnt around 4000 usd for the premium one enough? No - thanks... wow.

[@deluge6479]

Get a used car for that price lol

[@kevinbrook7033]

It was already out of my price range, so a further increase affects my possibility of buying one about as much Arianne Grande getting into a new relationship would affect my chances of dating her.

[@MrAnthonyfrench]

lol

[@tkdmp5698]

hahahaha

[@o.s.racing]

My moan is not about the price, but you are promoting (whether sponsored or not) a product that you cannot buy! And your viewers should be aware/warned that very few if any people have actually yet received their order. It might not be consumer advice you are giving but there is an inherent risk right now to "buying" a Somnium VR1. You can pre-order it but the date has moved continuously. I logged in to their discord, but its all locked so you can't see people complaining about not receiving their orders Varjo couldn't make the aero work financially due to the high cost, I think Somnium will struggle, and it's that, not the price that puts me off. I love my Aero but it's now unavailable. I suspect for the few that go out and buy this they'll end up in the same boat (if they get one). The biggest issue for me is not the price, 3 high priced monitors would be effectively the same. The reason I won't buy Somnium is they simply can't manufacture them. I'm not paying nearly 3k (when tax and import dues are added) for something I have no idea when or IF I'll actually get it + I've seen a lot of negative comments against the CEO's attitude and as seen on their discord. Such a shame I was genuinely ready to change to the somnium until I did my own research :-(

[@royevans1882]

The Varjo Aero is supported until the end of 2025. Please research before you post.

[@o.s.racing]

@@royevans1882 But mine is no longer in warranty and if it breaks there is no obvious replacement for it right now, bar the Pimax, which I have quality concerns over. I've been doing a lot of research thank you

[@o.s.racing]

@@royevans1882 However to appease your sensitivity I've updated my statement.

[@walltar]

Very few definitely... but people recieved their orders. I have mine like month and half. There were 5 batches of orders sent to people. Not sure how discord is locked... as far as I know everyone can join and look there. But you generaly do not see that many people complaining. My VR1 was delayed like 2 months or so, which is not catastrophe in the great scheme of things. As for how Artur acts... He is Czech, so he acts like most people here. He does not pull punches. Usually he is helpful beyond anything I have seen from a CEO before. Met him twice and he is really passionate about VR.

[@o.s.racing]

@ well I will say it is nice to see one person, after hours searching of Reddit, google and signing up to discord that has actually received it. The discord I could sign in to, but all posts were hidden so it appeared a ghost town

[@HeadsetHistorian]

I don't see how this headset can be marketed as modular and open source. It is as modular as the ! quest 2 and 3, and as far as open source it is only the eye tracking software that is being open sourced (which is great but it doesn't make it an open source headset whatsoever). It seems like an amazing headset and I'm sure anyone that gets one will be super happy, just those 2 marketing points really bother me so had to mention. I really hope Somnium keeps putting out headsets.

[@Chiefcheeseofcheddington]

How dare you talk about a headset that’s £4k!! The comments on the other somnium videos are hilarious. You review these things so we don’t have to buy them. I love these videos. It’s a shame I can’t buy one, but it’s content I can get behind. Getting upset about someone reviewing an expensive toy is no different to someone reviewing a £90k Audi, yet no one in the comments gets arse about it.

[@Chiefcheeseofcheddington]

Now on the other hand, I can afford one….. but… it’s not worth 4k in my opinion. A PCL or a quest 3 is honest to god good enough.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

​@@Chiefcheeseofcheddington You are absolutely right. It's genuinely refreshing to have comments like this, which are intelligent, thoughtful and understand completely what this channel offers. Best wishes.

[@briank3754]

@@Chiefcheeseofcheddingtongood enough for you.

[@walltar]

@@Chiefcheeseofcheddington I would not get a Quest 3 for any price... clarity is passable, almost good enough, but there is something wrong with (most likely) inner rendering angle. Because I can constantly see a black block between my eyes and I could not focus on the game because of that. Never had a chance to try Crystal, so that might be a good choice, if you can stomach buying stuff from Pimax.

[@Chiefcheeseofcheddington]

@@briank3754 good enough for me? Am I not talking about my own opinion?

[@briank3754]

Thanks again Steve! Unfortunate that the Somnium ditched the base model. I’m not spending $3k on a headset that will likely look a little behind the times in the coming weeks. I have been in the market for a new VR headset since October when I sold my soon to be unsupported Varjo Aero. I’ve been using my Reverb G2 and it has been wonderful over the years. I’m still using Windows 10 so no issues there. If only I could put the Quest 3 lenses on my Reverb! It’s hard to have faith in any of these VR companies at the high end. For all their faults Pimax have been around a while and continue to support their products. It looks like my only options will be the Pimax Super or maybe a Magenex if I can wait that long and Shiftall actually release a head set this time. I love the Bigscreen as well, but I fear the glare.

[@GYGOtv]

Ouch, a price increase probably puts this one out of my price range unfortunately. It was a stretch for me to be able to afford the base model at the old price. This news just puts one more in the plus column for the MeganeX for me... I'm actually getting REALLY excited about that one!

[@stevetb7777]

Yup! The MeganeX is going to be the one to beat (other than FOV!) I'm currently stuck with the Pimax 8KX because I haven't been able to go lower in FOV. The Aero and the Crystal clarity bump were not worth the FOV loss to me. I'm hoping this MeganeX will be the thing that gets me! There's also that Pimax Dream Air but, I'm skeptical about anything they say. I think I'll be waiting many more years for a large FOV headset with good clarity. Get Your Game On bro!

[@JM1701ABCD]

Form factor is still too heavy. There are a whole lot of neck problems (damaged discs) people will have years from now from using heavy headsets. One of the opinions shared from my spinal surgeon. Edit: For Steve’s daft comment…I own multiple headsets and don’t have neck problems. I was sharing an observation. How that earns me a daft comment Im not sure.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Don't be daft. I've worn a motorcycle helmet for years without any issues. I agree it's front heavy and if you do suffer from neck problems, it's not for you.

[@JM1701ABCD]

@@VRFlightSimGuyDaft? Really? You’ve changed man. Just lost a subscriber.

[@seattime4075]

@@VRFlightSimGuy Having also worn a helmet for many years, it is way more balanced, to the point were you even forget you have it on...My pimax 8KX though..😁. Just my observations with these front heavy headsets. All the best Steve.

[@jessekoepp3928]

@@JM1701ABCD I've never heard of a *single person* who has developed neck problems from VR. I've also seen *lots* of seniors enjoy VR with no problems whatsoever. I'm sure it sucks having a tiny little bird neck that struggles with a couple hundred grams but that's a YOU problem. If you already have neck issues, that's not VRs fault and the onus is not on them to fix VR for you. Also just so you know, not a single tuber on Earth loses a second of sleep over an overly sensitive stranger online "unsubscribing" because they didn't like hearing one single comment. What sorta daft person believes otherwise? 🤔

[@JM1701ABCD]

@@jessekoepp3928Tiny bird neck? Why are you so mean lol? Weird.

[@christiandoninger5951]

The vr1 was allready to expensive for the 2880 resolution for me. Especially with the megane 8k Superlight and pimax super around the corner.

[@sg0101010]

Pimax has some issues but their headset for the price is a much better direction. Super cost same/less with 50+ PPD. VR1 is only comparable to OG Crystal, doesn’t require a base station either. FYI, Pimax did switch manufacturers and supposedly that has helped with their QA

[@frozenmoment63]

So you have to pay 1500 more than a pimax for better qualitycontrol. I had a defect pimax after a year (broken headstrap) and they replaced it in a week.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

No, you are also getting a MUCH better, sharper display and depending on which version you go for, tons of features. I'm actually typing this comment through the VR1 pass through right now, in my motion rig :)

[@dukeupi3746]

I've been waiting for my Ultimate edition since October, hopefully this wait will end within a month. Nowadays I use Varjo Aero and that's what I have a question for you. Aero 39ppd vs VR1 35ppd, which one is sharper, how significant is the difference?

[@FlightSims-v4p]

I think your assessment of the PCL is correct. They have beefed up the amount of people they have doing customer service so problem solving has increased. But... the quality control is lagging behind this. My PCL has issues with waking up when I put it on my head the nose sensor isn't registering correctly.

[@MrMadness574]

What yoke are you using?

[@chewyfoks1840]

Its a Honeycomb Alpha and bravo set up

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Negative. I'm using a CLS-60 Force Feedback Yoke

[@chewyfoks1840]

@@VRFlightSimGuy Ooh, they look really good!

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

@@chewyfoks1840 It's amazing, I have a review on the channel :)

[@123thedman1]

Have you ever worked in sales Steve 😂 Your a natural

[@L_Emir_de_Passy]

Thank you for the video!

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

My pleasure!

[@Ryudarwolf]

VR1 owner here. People complaining about prices are funny: You're comparing a device that is made in the EU to one that is manufactured in china. I'm working for a company that sits in the same boat (Made in Germany vs cheap china stuff) and our customers value other aspects than money, such as reliability and the possibility to make easy repairs. Can you talk to the Pimax or CEO or Zuckerberg if you have suggestions or problems? Guess not. Here you can, because their (much, much smaller) team is available for you. The VR1 is a great headset I would love to see in more hands, but it is what it is, an hobby enthusiasts device. You're paying for certain aspects you don't get from other companies, like build quality and customer service. Outdated hardware? I can't run this headset anywhere near 100% res and if I put it there, it's visual quality is outstandingly sharp and great, with almost no difference to my monitor. I'm happy with my purchase, even if I paid more.

[@paulsaunders6536]

I guess price is a big factor but for me the question of whether or not you can run it a native res and still get decent frame rates is equally as important. Having a headset with the sharpest resolution available isn’t much use if you can’t actually take advantage of it. All the compensatory trickery of upscaling and motion re projection will never deliver the sharpness of native res. My PC delivers a fantastic VR experience with the Crystal and native res using quad views in DCS. Take quad views with DFR away and my frame rate halves. Go native or go home 😂

[@Hwy929]

I read the title and thought finally...they are lowering it to be more competitive. Oh well,.

[@hanskrohn]

Good video to start the new year! Thanks, Steve. I ordered a VR1 in July, hoping for delivery this month. I admit my account almost bled out back then, but has recovered by now (one tends to forget those bad moments after a while 😅) Because of its quality and specs I expect to use this headset for at least 5 years. Even a 4090 doesn’t allow for max settings - I consider that fact proof that the VR1 is future proof…

[@TRX25EX]

In current market growth it will be collecting dust in 2 years max lol

[@artursychov]

You will enjoyit for 5+ years

[@MrAnthonyfrench]

I think it will last 5 years easy. It will still be up there with the rest and at least when it is starting to get last gen, it will be getting used at a high frame rate.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Happy new year!

[@danceoffAsh]

You will soon be craving for the 12k from Pimax once that's out in a few years

[@julianhall2008]

Thanks for the video, it's like most products in life, minimal gains for a great deal of money. If you have deep pockets then fine, for myself I'm still using my Aero ,not happy that support is going at some point, other things come before a new vr headset for me.at this time.

[@jackr.749]

There are only two kinds of people..... Those who can afford a VR1 and those who can only dream of a VR1, I fall into the "Dream" category! 🤪 As you said, for the price point, the Crystal Light is a good deal in comparison, I am very much enjoying mine, luckily I got a good unit with no issues, amazing HMD for what it is. As you mentioned, the little extra the VR1 gives over a Crystal Light is not worth the large amount of extra money even if I could afford it, it's just a small leap in visuals between the two. The unfortunate truth is the computer hardware to run these high end HMDs to their full capability doesn't exist yet, my guess is the 5090 will still not be enough and same goes for the 9800X3D (best gaming CPU at this time), that too isn't enough. These headsets are like putting the buggy in front of the horse. LOL

[@richardnoall3758]

Appreciate the info, I couldn't afford it at the previous price point and now it's just ridiculous for the general public. I will watch from afar 😄

[@kaecatlady]

"Who TF would pay for this?" Enthusiasts who can afford it. That's obviously not most folks here, and it's not me, either. But to get your panties in a knot and go full Karen because Steve or any other reviewer does their job--all because your FOMO has been triggered--is pretty damned goofy. And to insist that all manufacturers in your hobby only build the best items--but charge only what YOU can afford, no matter what it costs the company--is just plain stupid People who think this way really need to get over their belief that they must be the only Center of the Universe.

[@SDsc0rch]

good thing I put my order in last November!

[@Dachopper_]

You’ve got a potential Somnium VR1 killer in the Crystal Super ($900 cheaper) about to be released and Somnium’s strategy to combat this is to put the price up. Absolutely moronic.

[@Callsigntitan]

Man, I was about to hit the button on a crystal light but I’m a bit afraid now.

[@Cless_Aurion]

That's a pretty dope HMD! Although... For those 1550Euro (which like... around 1000 is just the price of the displays) I just bought the MeganeX 8K with 3500x3800 resolution... mOLED too and almost Q3-like lenses... I thank god I don't make HMDs or MR apps of any kind, so I really don't need the Somnium! (even when I'm a gamedev)

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

I can't wait to get the Meganex very soon for further testing. Thanks for your comments

[@HowlerBikeVlogs]

i love my visionary vr1, ordered in july 24, got it 2 weeks before christmas. so i get eye tracking but no passthru or hand tracking. the clarity is insane, even at 60 or 70% resolution, as flight and race simming, i do need the framerate to be at least over 80 at all times, except msfs24 obv, there it's locked to 45 and thats smooth enough. also i got that bobovr m2 strap, fits straight on and the comfort is great now. probably going to tinker a bit with an audio solution as right now i use iem's via the side mounted jack, and i miss the over ear speakers of my index.

[@paulsleighty]

Yeah, I noticed people going off on one on a recent video about a 4070 pc that you said was mid range, and several said erh no that is high end and £3000 is expensive. Yes £3000 is a lot for a pc, but in comparison to a 4090 / 14900k system high end system it isn't. I'm a lorry driver, I don't have much expendable income so I get it what it's like to not be able to afford devices like the somnium or a 4090. But I'm still realistic, and I still understand the difference between high end and mid range.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Great comment Paul cheers mate. Also, thankyou for keeping the country running. Full respect for being a grafter 👍

[@paulsleighty]

Thanks Steve.

[@HelmutBemboka]

In about 2 years, I should have funds to pretty much get any system I want. So get out your crystal ball Steve, what do you think might be the top of line VR setup at that time?

[@DMan-ud6bt]

IMO, the Visionary is a waste of money for the vast majority of people, because they don't use applications that support DFR anyway. Even if you do use something like DCS, is it really worth another $700 for eye tracking for one or two applications? Unless you basically live in that application, it isn't. This is why I ordered the Classic. I wanted the FOV and clarity without wasting money on a feature that I'd always only wish I could take advantage of. That's why it's just too bad that they're no longer offering the Classic edition and raising their prices. It's making it far less likely for people to experience the VR1 at all.

[@philb1167]

Great video! AUD$800 Quest 3 -Compromised experience but ok AUD$5000+ Top end VR system, awesome experience Nothing in-between makes much sense. Renew cost every 3-4 years. I'm not complaining, that's just reality.

[@shaneastwood6364]

I ended up with a pimax crystal from pimax the us to nz exchange is rubbish. Still cost me about 1800 00 nz dollars. A somniun at 3500 will cost about 8k i can buy a small car for that amount of cash or better still put it towards ppl license at around 30k.happy with my pumax though

[@4secsharkmr352]

Good video, Steve. Thanks for that. I am very sceptical about the price raise and the reduction of the variety of their products. We don't know exactly why. I wish Arthur and Somnium that they will have success in their business. But seeing Somnium going to a more pricey calculation could be eventually the wrong way because there is more and more a lack of available headsets in the middle price range. That leads to less customers and a smaller VR owner base at all. PCVR is in trouble if only a few people could afford a suitable PC + VR headset. There will be no developments by any of the big software companies. That is just not profitable anymore.

[@NowIsGold]

At present I use The Varjo Aero for flying and the Bigscreen Beyond for gaming. For flying at night I still prefer the Beyond. Generally speaking, I don't prefer the Beyond for flying, escpecially for airliners, due to the small sweet spot. The Somnium VR1 could well be a replacement for the Aero but I'm still waiting for a Valve Index 2 (Deckard).

[@tkdmp5698]

We are at the begging of having actually good headsets A headset like the Q2 i have is cool but it still feels like a toy I really excited about the meganeX but i cant still pull the trigger I feel like in a year a new headset like this is gonna come out and also have eye tracking The dream from pimax may do that if its an actual working product and not a "dream"

[@bordman20]

It looks like they dropped the transparent version and the vr only version. I am interested in replacing my headset with a higher end device, but with the new inventory and pricing, I think ill roll the dice with the MeganeX 8K. And thanks. I wish I found you sooner. I found your right after I bought a Vive Pro 2 which I would have gone a different way. I value your opinions and appreciate your content!

[@Mark_Point]

Surely they could sell lower pass rate headsets at a cheaper price. Throwing them out seems wasteful.

[@karner1541]

Yeah we need to wait for the crystal super, to get that big FOV and high resolution :)

[@SparkySven]

I did watch till the end before I moan :-) Quality control cost is not something that needs to be pushed to their customers, they have to have a more serious talk to their panel supplier so that they can trust them more that there are no faults. That's all I'm going to moan about. I wish I could afford it but that is not the case so they don't have to fear me. I do enjoy all the headsets you show so we can pick and choose what's the best for our wallets. Thank you.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Hey Sven. It's like this in any industry including cars, guitars, washing machines, toaster... 😅 Things like the fabric materials for an interior for example, high quality engine components etc. The more overheads any company has to pay, is always passed down the chain. Thanks for watching buddy.

[@Stuwie1976]

living in fantasy world. And you also work for free?

[@nTu4Ka]

I have a feeling QC is just something they can use to increase the price (for whatever reason) without making it look like customers don't get something in return from increase.

[@FlightSims-v4p]

They don't want to be like Pimax, increasing customer service but quality control issues have their customer base hopping mad.

[@Savage_Viking]

Already old tech this year, hard pass on the Somnium VR-1

[@j.r.linden9679]

How is it already old tech?

[@walltar]

@@j.r.linden9679 Maybe because there is one headset that you can buy and two that are comming that have more PPD... so in theory, if you can render it, you can have sharper experience. XR4 is way more expensive though, Meganex got pretty small FOV, but Crystal Super might be interesting if Pimax starts to take QA seriously... But in the end "If you can render it" remains... I really can't run even VR1 on 100% render res on my 4090, so I am not really sure that new 50+PPD is going to be more than a marketing for a lot of users.

[@stevetb7777]

You mean you have to strap this on your head and look at a display? No direct neural interface? Caveman times!

[@nr3157]

Why buy a VR1? For about half the price Meganex Superlight 8K has higher resolution. The only thing this headset has better is FOV, so is FOV so important to make anyone pay over 1K dollars more?

[@vracan]

yeah but 30% less fov thanks but no thanks skuba vision

[@Cavediver86]

I've been saving for one and they just lost me. Looks like I'm going g to have to gamble with a pimax. No way I can drop $2800

[@SerialDelta]

Well well, I've been considering for months.... After this I decided to leap in and order an Ultimate. I'm old.. lets say I'm in Military Twilight on NVG... But they have made the D for me.. As it seems they won't ship to Australia??? 🤬

[@L_Emir_de_Passy]

I was initially puzzled by the price increase but, in a way, it actually could be good news for high end VR as whole. They wouldn't increase the price if demand wasn't high. Good for Somnium.

[@deluge6479]

What? That's how demand works lol, you raise the price when there is more demand because your supply isn't enough

[@L_Emir_de_Passy]

@deluge6479 yes that's what I meant. Autocorrect betrayed me :)

[@craigh1790]

Interesting business model. They are manufacturing defective components. Throwing them out. And then charging customers a premium to make up for those loses? Strange.

[@RetaAshlen]

Appreciate the detailed breakdown! Just a quick off-topic question: My OKX wallet holds some USDT, and I have the seed phrase. (alarm fetch churn bridge exercise tape speak race clerk couch crater letter). What's the best way to send them to Binance?

[@andyaustin923]

I'm waiting for ASOBO to make better VR improvements to msfs 2020/2024.

[@Glider324]

VR1 is not available in many countries.

[@justbrowsing5279]

No way I'd buy Pimax after everything I've read. So it really is between the quest 3 and the somnium. So it's go big or go cheap.

[@aj2228]

Good thing I bought it before the price went up

[@seanhaynes8758]

Yeah silly money. After all the Primax issues with customer support , lack of quality control etc I would be loath to spend my hard earned money on a gamble. The quest is cheap, no frills, does what it says on the box...if it dies, you can easily replace it as the market is flooded with unwanted xmas presents. In time headsets will improve and prices drop. Ill wait until they are reasonably priced. Until then a lot of these companies will fail simply because they are premuim..

[@dan7heman56]

Oh yeah I’m buying this strictly for VRChat 😂❤

[@metalceesie219]

Way too expensive,also micro oled is a way to go...Wait some months there will be a suprise coming !

[@billmalibu9217]

I'll stick with my varjo aero thanks very much

[@walltar]

How dare you Steve?! Haw dare you talk about so expensive headset? I am mad because I can't affortd one... That is most likely because I already got it, but still I am mad! So mad that your video is going to get a like! Ha! 😀

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

LOL thanks mate for your support. Enjoy your VR1. Isn't it bloody amazing 👌

[@walltar]

@@VRFlightSimGuy It definitely is... Bloody expensive, but I have not regretted spending that money even once.

[@ronny028]

Better get Apple on the phone ; see how it went for them!

[@ryanw1433]

If one has to ask what the price is, one cannot afford it 😂

[@PCVRandQuest]

Honestly, the Quest 3 is all you need

[@Glider324]

It is all meta needs too.

[@FlightSims-v4p]

Not really. I own a PC, why would I want to use a quest 3 that is not PCVR and will make my computer work harder to crunch the numbers. It doesn't use a display port.

[@martinsimracing1255]

I understand what people say about it not being a PCVR headset but here is the deal: I got a 4090 7950x3d ; I supper sample the crap out of the quest 3 and it looks really good. Like very clear. Yes it works hard to produce an image that could produced much easier with a true PCVR headset but I’m not motivated to buy anything else right now. The image looks amazing. I will wait for the next round of high end headsets before investing. The quest 3 is great and does so much for $600 give or take.

[@FlightSims-v4p]

@@martinsimracing1255 I do get what you are saying and you cant beat the cost. I have a 7800X3D and a 4090 and think about how much you could crank up a Crystal Light that is designed for PC, just for a few hundred dollars more without supersampling.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

@@martinsimracing1255 I agree it does look great, but it's nothing like a VR1

[@alfabravozapa]

Looks very front heavy. I have Aero and it is already too heavy for me. G2 was much better in that department.

[@rehil123]

I got the Pimax Super would rather have the VR1 but for what ever the reason it ships all over the world but not Canada

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

😢

[@CaptCanada45]

That's too bad because I was interested in getting one

[@Tygrmoth]

I find the idea of spending upwards of £4,000 (and don’t forget, you’ll need the GPU horsepower to run the thing) to fly in a simulator that costs around £70 just a little bit ridiculous. £500 on a Quest 3 is bad enough.

[@brin57]

Why are any of them so expensive ? That's the real question !! They're all having a laugh. (Edit) OK I'll give quest and pimax light a pass) but really 3500 quid is just having a laugh.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

You comment makes no sense at all.

[@brin57]

@@VRFlightSimGuy OK fair call. I'll wind it back a bit and give Quest and Pimax light a pass. But seriously, 3500 quid IS having a laugh.

[@UkDave3856]

I was looking at dropping the hammer on a VR1 as soon as the 5090 comes out, but I’m now leaning towards the XR4 if the price is going up

[@artursychov]

We will be still far lower than XR4 ;)

[@TRIcoolbomb]

I’m in the same, and the fact that people that got it 6 months ago still don’t have the unit scares me the most

[@UkDave3856]

@ it’s still a close choice

[@poolhallshark]

👍👍👍👍👍

[@mombasa22]

The Somnium discord notes so many initial display problems on release. This headset will be outdated in quick order with the index 2 on the horizon and the super not far off. The worst part is that the CEO Artur is a shady individual and pretty flippant and egocentric. Don’t support businesses that are run like that. I wouldn’t have bought it at the old price and won’t buy it at the new price. I’m very happy with my 4090 FE and Crystal. I’ll spend my cash on the 5090 and Super. No way Somnium gets my money .

[@FlightSims-v4p]

They said the Index 2 was on the horizon this time last year. I think they are calling it the Deckard or something. I had a Index and was waiting for it. I broke down and brought a PCL while waiting.

[@dakndonk]

Hi Steve , could you DM me your contact email , I have a settings video you may like and want to share with the community , this gets sharp picture quality and smooth MSFS