Real Pilot - First Person Test / Review | Next Level Racing - Boeing Military Edition Sim Cockpit

In this video, we test out Next Level Racing's Boeing Military Edition cockpit.
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PC Specs
ASUS Z790
Intel Core i9 13900K 5.8GHz
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
64GB DDR4 2666MHz
Hardware
Next Level Racing's Boeing Military Edition Cockpit
Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog
Saitek Pro Flight rudder pedals
HP Reverb WMR headset
TrackIR5
Earthquake Shell Shoxx transducer
Enjoy the flight!

[@asill8122]

This is what I've been waiting for! Really impressive. I felt a slight twinge of trepidation, looking at all the separate pieces laid out on the floor, prior to assembly, but it looks so sturdy & compact when put together. My playing area is a bit larger but you seem to have everything you need, perfectly to hand. Great video, as usual. I need to check this out & start counting my pennies. Happy Easter to you & yours, & happy flying on your new rig.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, I had only one or two head scratching moments, but otherwise the rig went together very easily and indeed it is very sturdy. Surprisingly customisable as well, if you get a little bit “creative”. The seat section itself is nice and compact, I do wish the rudder mount was optional though, as that takes up quite a bit more room than it really needs to. I can’t compare the NLR rig to any others, but certainly I’d be happy to answer any more questions regarding the product, as and when your piggy bank is full ; ) A very (belated) Happy Easter to you and yours also! Thanks very much once again : )

[@JayHickman]

I always enjoy your approach to your reviews and to simming in general. That said, I am amazed by the size of your sim space, being such this rig looks ideal for it.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Cheers Jay! Haha, well this is what happens when you have kids XD We actually moved houses recently and whilst my sim space has taken a downgrade in size, it does mean I now have a dedicated space (as opposed to a shared office). So swings and roundabouts really. It would be nice to have a bigger room, but the rig fits in perfectly, as you say. I think I might need some aircon in the summer though haha. Thanks very much and all the best! : )

[@JayHickman]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations A large fan in front will be perfect when flying the tiger moth :-). Being an empty nester, I have a rather large room for an office and sim space… but it took a long time to get there so I can understand

[@pluginmeerkat]

An idea for you if the stick mount is adjustable in height: you could add a short extension between the stick and its base. That does two things: 1) you can freely rotate the stick to suit you, whilst the base itself can remain in its neutral position. You won't have to fiddle with screws either, you just open the nut on the stick, rotate, and tighten the nut again. 2) Adding a bit of extension does wonders to the sensitivity of movement you can make, especially near the center. I'd go so far as to say that it is utterly transformative! You can get extensions from several places - Virpil has some, mine came from Milan Flight Gear. Or of course you could have one made locally.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much for the suggestion CSM! Whilst the stick mount can be adjusted, I already have it at the lowest possible position and find the stick grip to be as high as I would wish it to be. As a result, an extension wouldn’t be practical with this particular setup, though it would have been a great solution otherwise. Cheers and all the best! : )

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much for the suggestion TGD, that could certainly work. I’m actually back at a desk for the time being, whilst we shuffle some stuff around the house. Perhaps, once I have everything set up again, I will look into it : ) Cheers, all the best!

[@everythinggaming7938]

i have a simlab p1x, i got all my flight sim gear on it and simracing at the same time. It cannot be beat, so solid and has infinite customisation options it blows this rig and any rigs on the market out of the water

[@WhiteHawk77]

Yep, aluminium profile is the way to go, I have a P1 myself with a number of modifications.

[@bread5132]

Great video, very informative as usual. So at this point you're going to give periodic updates which show your Sim room becoming progressively more elaborate until entering it is essentially indistinguishable from entering a cockpit. All the best friend :)

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! I wish, Bread! I’d love to build a proper home cockpit one day, but as you can see from the size of the room, that one will have to wait a bit longer (most likely until I’m retired haha). I’d love to try out a motion platform as well, but the same issues there I fear. I think a VR headset will be my next addition (at some point). I’m glad you found the video informative / enjoyed it! Thanks very much for watching and all the best to you also : )

[@johnmclean6498]

I have the Winwing F/A 18 controllers, and the control column has a grub screw setup where you can add "twist" to the handpiece as in the real jet. Nice touch.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

That’s a neat little feature, John. I’m potentially on the market for some new controllers actually, so I will bear that in mind. Cheers for the info, all the best! : )

[@mtills46]

Always fantastic quality reviews mate, your content is really appreciated by the community. You should do some more gopro videos too so we can see how you fly in some of your videos! Cheers

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thank you very much Mike, very kind of you to say! I’m really glad you’re finding the content useful and indeed, it’s great if others are also. I had actually thought that I might feature the GoPro from time to time. I’m not quite sure exactly how yet though, as having the overlay rather kills the immersion within the video itself (but I’m sure the idea could work well for certain types of video). Many thanks again and all the best! : )

[@ChristopherWilliamsakadopher]

Killed it. Great hardware review.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much Christopher, I’m glad you enjoyed it : ) Cheers, all the best!

[@johnclarke2553]

Super review! I don't know that I'll rush out and buy one, but it looks excellent, and well done for explaining it so well.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much John! Haha, that’s fair enough; I wouldn’t expect that a sim rig is an impulse purchase for most people, but I was very keen to give the product a go and hopefully the video will prove useful to anyone that is considering purchasing the unit. Cheers! : )

[@stewiepid4385]

@2:15 " I'll probably need that due to my appalling posture ..." Brother, I feel you! I live most of my life at a 90* angle. Lol! Really good review. Continued success.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! I’d be doing well, if I was only at 90 degrees Stewie. I had to put a nice recline into the seat and go with the lumbar support also ha. A little like yourself (by the sounds of it); whether I’m working, recording a vid, or relaxing, I spend the vast majority of my time sitting - an affliction of the modern world I suppose XD I’m glad you enjoyed the review! Many thanks once again : )

[@Blxz]

Good review. This is the first video I've found that doesn't feel like a paid infomercial. Got mine coming in the mail sometime in the next 100 years so looking forward to getting it all set up.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Cheers Blxz! I’m glad the review came across as genuine - I certainly tried to give a balanced breakdown of the product. I do hope you enjoy your rig when the time comes! Fingers crossed it doesn’t take too long in the mail; as I say, getting in and out would probably be a little bit tricky for anyone over 70 : P Happy flying, all the best! : )

[@Blxz]

Got a few decades before that becomes an issue, thankfully.

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

Great review and very nice setup. I look forward to a possible VR video in the future. Take care.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much Steve! Haha, well never say never, but I had heard that the VR review market is already well covered ; ) I’m actually waiting on a Pimax Crystal review (no pressure hehe), to see what that’s all about. The Varjo sounds superb, but the extra FOV of the Pimax 8K sounds more up my alley and I’m wondering whether the Crystal might offer a decent compromise between the two options. Looking forward to seeing what it has to offer : ) I hope you’re keeping well and had fun on your 2-wheeled adventures. All the best!

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations Thanks my friend. My first impressions video of the Crystal will be out this evening. If you ever need help setting up VR give me a shout. Keep up the awesome content, I'm equally looking forward to your ATR review. Cheers!

[@PluckyUnderdog]

Ah, a man after my own heart haha. I have the same hotas/rudder setup. The Warthog is the definitive one, for me. Priced definitely too haha! Hope you're keeping well, mate.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, “great minds think alike” I guess, Michael ; ) I’m actually considering some TPR rudder pedals in the not-too-distant future. My Saitek pedals have served me well, but after a long and hard life, they’re now pretty shot (among other things, they click loudly when moving through the centre of the axis, which you can often hear in my videos XD ). The Warthog is still doing the job for now, though it too is starting to show the signs of the abuse it has received over the years haha. Busy, but all good here thanks! Got some time off next month, so looking forward to that. I might even have time to enjoy a spot of personal simming hehe (as opposed to recording ; ) I hope all is well on your end also and that you had a nice Easter etc. Cheers!

[@user-kl3hn1jn1m]

Finally! .... a simulator gets flown. Thank you!

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, cheers Tony, my absolute pleasure! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks very much for watching and all the best : )

[@davidenativo]

Great review, thanks!

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Cheers Davide, glad you enjoyed it! : ) I hope you’re well. All the best!

[@jaymac7203]

That's the most perfectly sized sim room ever! Lol its so cosy ☺️

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Cheers Jay! I’d imagine it’s certainly going to get pretty “cozy” come the summer haha, but my simming “cupboard” is working very nicely at the moment : ) All the best!

[@coffeeguy6673]

Nice n hot too with the pc chucking heat out hehe !!

[@4secsharkmr352]

Hi, got it as well. Absolutely recommended. Thx for the video and take care.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

My pleasure on the video Mr Shark, I’m glad you’re enjoying the rig also! Good to see you - I hope you’re keeping well : ) P.S. I realise I still owe you a reply over on Mav’s server, regarding my cable “management” XD Cheers!

[@4secsharkmr352]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations 😂👍

[@df5590]

Excellent review. I purchased the competitors simpit a year or so ago, I don't remember seeing the NLR cockpit as an option at the time. Wish it was. Looks like a more finished product. The only option I would add would be a built in monitor stand.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much DF, I’m glad you enjoyed it! I believe the NLR rig is about a year old, give or take. I don’t have anything to compare the product to, but certainly it’s a very solid / customisable rig and the price appears to be competitive. I agree that a built-in monitor stand would be great, though as you can see, I did manage a bit of a “bodge” haha (and Next Level do offer a separate monitor stand, should one so wish). I hope you’re still enjoying your sim rig at any rate! Happy flying and all the best : )

[@QBziZ]

Good review. I have the NLR GT-Track myself, because it was compatible with their V3 motion platform. It is very comparable, you definitely see the lineage. My pedals, MFG's, are also not mounted with any proper screws or clamping washers as surprisingly none of the holes overlap with any of the MFG candidate attachment points. You would not believe it when you saw both apart, but somehow I had to resort to zip-ties to make them work together. No big deal though, it holds just fine. My shaker haptics is not a Buttkicker, as I found that to be a bit too expensive, I just clamped two shakers to each side of the chair with a bit of a hack, but the effect is awesome. I tried to not drill any extra holes in the original steel, but that would certainly clean up all those hacks, so maybe, one day I might feel fed up enough and drill my way to a permanent solution.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much QBziZ. Lucky you! I would love to try out a motion platform, but unfortunately I just don’t have the space for it (in my current room, I think I’d end up suffering a lot of head injuries haha XD ). I was quite surprised about the limited compatibility with the Saitek rudder pedals (especially considering that they are probably the most commonly used rudder pedals on the market), but they do ultimately still fit onto the rig. I was actually planning to upgrade to a set of TPR’s at any rate, which appear to be fully compatible. I’m glad the rig is working out for you. Happy flying! All the best : )

[@5dmkiii60]

I use the Thrustmaster Warthog stick / quadrant and had used Saitek Pro rudder pedals but bought the Thrustmaster TPR pedals when they became available. They're expensive, but fabulous. I also put an extension between joystick handle and base...which is now mounted below my seated position. It's more like a stick in a real plane. Those controls are pricey, but setup right, they make all the difference in precise and accurate sim flight. The seat is not as big a deal as getting the best controls. Once you have those, you're off and running for good sim flying.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi 5dmk, Well funnily enough, I’m actually now looking at a set of TPR’s myself also haha. I really only hear good things about them and my Saitek pedals are on their last legs at this point. Someone else suggested a stick extension, though I feel the stick would then be too high vs the seat. Did you manage to figure out a method for mounting your joystick base lower (perhaps you’re using a different rig)? I agree with what you say; controls make a greater difference to one’s simming experience overall. As I said in the video, the seat has improved how accurately I can fly in the sim, but only marginally. The rig offers “convenience” and immersion as much as anything. Cheers for your input! All the best : )

[@5dmkiii60]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations The TPR pedals are superb. They are as accurate and nuanced with the rudder as your Warthog throttle quadrant is with engine power adjustments. The more natural, hanging pedal position allows you to use just your toes; instead of shuffling your feet side to side like with the Saitek type pedals. The TPR pedals are orders of magnitude better than any other pedals I've had. You will LOVE them.

[@claudelafrance4978]

Don’t you hate it when your office chair rolls back when you apply pressure to the rudders peddles , this rig would solve that problem. Nice review.

[@Topcat1952]

Agree - if you can afford it. I have been trying to solve this problem for years. My current iteration is to use a 4 x 6 thick shag throw rug ($20 from Wal-Mart). Seems to work so far with my Turtle Beach rudder pedals. Not perfect but workable. Someone needs to invent a gaming chair with wheels you can lock using a single handle (like they have with the chair elevation).

[@tubeztoonz]

@@Topcat1952 Yes, the same shag rug works for me as well.

[@rolanddutton]

Alternative to a rug - get a set of locking office chair castors or glides.

[@Topcat1952]

@@rolanddutton Tried that first. Problem was the locking wheels were hard to reach when the caster moved under the leg extension. That involved picking up the heavy chair and moving them. Being an olde farte that was getting more and more difficult for me. That was why I would like to see a chair with locking castors but an easier way to lock them - like a single lever. But, thanks for the suggestion.

[@rolanddutton]

@@Topcat1952 there are "weight activated locking" or "brake loaded" castors that lock when you sit on the chair but free-wheel otherwise. Just a suggestion - I don't know if it would suit you.

[@dokken1212]

Looks great, have been toying with the idea of one of these but need one of the older children to move out first so that I can have access to another room lol. As always great and ideal that the simpit can easily be hidden in a room of its own :-). Hope you and the family are well and in good spirits :-)

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Mr Murray! I do hope you’re keeping well sir : ) Haha. Perhaps it’s a bit of a chicken and egg situation; *if* you were to simply set up the rig in one of your kids bedrooms, I’m sure that would incentivise them to move out a little more quickly : P I do miss my old study, but “needs must” and so far the “simming cupboard” has been working just fine actually haha. We’re all very well on my end thanks, likewise on your end I hope! All the best!

[@dokken1212]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations Glad all is well your end ITBS and that you are all well :-). Have been missing for a wee while - herniated discs in my neck - so havent been able to sit at my computer. Old age and too many years playing in heavy rock/metal bands and all that headbanging has wrecked my neck lol. Was worth it though :-). I thought the 'simming cupboard' looked ace - maximum use of space as it was a nice neat fit :-). Still 'off sick' with MSFS at the moment due to my neck but looking forward to the ATR release - be interesting to see how good the 'expert series' is. But its a day one buy even though I wont fly for a few weeks yet lol :-).

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Sorry to hear about your neck, James! Oh, is that so - any bands that I might have heard of haha? I’ve long been a rock / metal fan; luckily I haven’t managed to screw my neck, but too many concerts / air shows, has definitely done my hearing no favours XD As you allude to, we (probably) only live once, so might as well make the most of it all whilst we’re young! ; )

[@ysteinRnning]

Great timing on this. I’ve recently upgraded my rudder pedals to the Thrustmaster TPR which is so much easier to use (at 0 sensitivity setting!) than my old ones. Night and day difference. But they do move a bit because of the increased travel of the pedals. Typically while taxiing. I’ve been looking at the commercial version of this as a solution. It would also go well with NLR’s haptic seat I’ve been eyeing…💸

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! It sounds like we’re very much on the same page then Øystein: I’m actually considering a set of TPR pedals at the moment (I hear good things and my Saitek pedals are on their last legs) and was mulling over the haptic seat also (my transducer does a nice job, but a little bit more immersion never hurt anyone ; ) Well, I can’t recommend the NLR rig over any other product, since I haven’t tried any other rigs, but certainly I’m very happy with the setup overall. The deformity in the base cushion would be my only noteworthy gripe, but I suspect the Commercial Edition might suffer slightly less from that anyway (owing to the faux sheepskin cover). Let me know if you’d like any more info / feedback before purchasing : ) Cheers!

[@ysteinRnning]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations If we are on the same page, it’s because I’ve learned so much from your channel! I think you will be happy with the TPR pedals. I can relatively confidently take off in the spitfire now without going off the runway half the time 😛

[@mikecoffee100]

BLIMEEEY maybe if I won the lottery perhaps othewise another ABSOLUTELY FAB VIDEO AS USUAL

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, cheers Mike! Obviously, such a rig is rather a “high-end” item and as such won’t be within everyone’s budget. I wanted to take advantage of Next Level Racing’s generous offer though and figured the video would hopefully be of interest / help to some. If nothing else, the video is proof that the rig can fit into a very small room XD Thanks as always : )

[@chewyfoks1840]

Captain, I'd love to see a review of a 6DOF motion platform, maybe DOF reality or Motion Systems will reach out to you...🤞

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, well I’d love to try a motion platform Chewy! I’m not sure I currently have the space though (it might just about work) and I’ve yet to receive any offers from anyone haha. For sure though, if any manufacturers were ever to reach out, I’d try my best to make a review happen! Cheers and all the best : )

[@epope98]

This would be good with vr, vr for flight or racing sims is great. I also recommend a buttkicker mod.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Yes Benjamin, that would certainly make for a very immersive combination : ) All the best!

[@CurbSlayers]

Thanks for the comprehensive review. I’ve been considering this rig for quite some time now. My main concern is switching between the military HOTAS setup and a GA/commercial yoke setup. Based on your experience how difficult/time-consuming would that conversion process be? The pics on the NLR website show the yoke platform mounted just in front of the center stick plate so is it as simple as mounting both the yoke setup and the center stick and then pulling the center stick mounting tube out of its base and setting it aside for best access to the yoke? Many thanks.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hello CSR, Cheers, my pleasure on the video! If you want to switch between setups, it can be a bit time consuming. In theory, you could have the yoke and joystick mounted at the same time; the yoke mount can pivot forward and the joystick mount is very quick / easy to remove however, looking at pics of the rig, you’ll note that (unlike when used as a keyboard mount) the yoke mount actually uses an additional brace, which connects just below the seat cushion. The attachment for this brace, is the same attachment point that the stick mount uses, so for optimal use of the yoke, you would need to change mounts each time, which would require screwing / unscrewing a number of bolts. Obviously this isn’t ideal, but I fear the yoke mount would be too wobbly, without using that additional brace. The same would be somewhat true if you want to change out throttle quadrants each time - unless you come up with a custom solution (I have seen some people using magnets for example), some bolts would have to be adjusted on each occasion. I hope that clarifies things for you? Thanks and all the best! : )

[@iamthefatstig]

The pricepoint is spot on compared to some other rigs that charge a lot more. I was actually pleasantly surprised. Just like a new car, it will take a while to settle in.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Indeed Shoestring; whilst I can’t compare the rig to other units (not having used any), the pricing seems pretty competitive. I am still tweaking a few bits here and there, but it’s all settling in, as you say. Cheers and all the best! : )

[@Rog_gamer729]

Can wait to buy me one lol im moving to canada soon and then im gonna buy when when i can afforr it looks so nicr cant wait to hop on dcs with this bad boy

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Well, best of luck with the move, TBP and I hope you enjoy the sim rig (as and when the time comes)! If you have any further questions ahead of purchasing, please feel free to get in touch again : ) Cheers!

[@AnthonyNobel]

The set looks good for the quality. The only thing missing is a decent 180 degree projector ;).

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, don’t tempt me Sam! : P I would love to get a projector, but “luckily” the size of the room probably prohibits me from doing so at the moment. Cheers, all the best! : )

[@andyholmes9485]

Thanks for the vid. Any reason you went with the Earthquake rather than Buttkicker? Cheers

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

My pleasure Andy, cheers! Yes, one very good reason haha; I actually had a Buttkicker originally and it broke after a pretty short and modest period of use (the amp died). I came to find out thereafter, that failure scenario was a pretty common one, so decided to shop around for an alternative instead. I’ve had the Shellshoxx transducer for many years now and although my usage of it has been somewhat periodic, it’s still going strong (although both products have their own strengths and weaknesses). I hope that helps. All the best once again : )

[@karlhungus545]

Would you be able to have a HOTAS (side-mount stick and throttle), keyboard, and steering wheel all installed at the same time? I play DCS and IL2, but also racing games and ETS/ATS. An all-in-one setup is what I'm looking for.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hello Karl, I think that would be a push, to be honest. You probably *could* make that work if you’re looking at a side-mount joystick solution, but the keyboard would have to be mounted off to the side, if you wanted to have the steering wheel up front. The pedals also take quite a long time to add / remove, so it wouldn’t be a quick changeover on that front. I think if you were just looking at ETS / ATS as far as the driving goes, you might be ok, but the rig probably doesn’t offer enough rigidity for the wheel, as far as full-on racing games are concerned. I hope that helps a little. Please let me know if you have any further questions. All the best! : )

[@neodecker]

The weakest link I've found in the time I've owned mine is the brackets that hold the seat back to the base. I wish they would offer a sold bracket, instead of the adjustable ones.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Oh really, NeoDecker? What issue have you been having with the brackets? Personally, I couldn’t use the seat without the backrest being adjustable but obviously, these sorts of things very much come down to personal preference. How long have you had the seat for (if you don’t mind me asking - it might be useful for info for other prospective customers)? Cheers, all the best!

[@neodecker]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations I've had it for about 6 months. The brackets are made of cheap metal, and bent when I get out of the chair. Since I have a full HOTAS, and use the keyboard mounted to the front bracket. I have the crawl out of the chair.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, I know that crawl! I hadn’t noticed any bending on my end but, to be fair it may be that the brackets have bent and I simply re-adjusted the seat-back position (without even realising). Given how solid most of the frame is, it does seem like an odd area in which to use a weaker metal. . . Thanks for the info. Much appreciated!

[@neodecker]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations I just got replacement brackets last week, and when I was removing the right one it was completely sheered through (and that wasn't the side I thought was the issue). I'm going to take some measurements and get in contact with a CNC shop about getting some brackets made.

[@kenbarthSimAV8tor]

I will consider (the Boeing Commercial Edition) it if and when the price is reduced; a bit pricey right now eh. For now I use my Next Level Racing with F-GT flight pack and also castors. I may go for the Boeing Commercial Edition-have you reviewed that? Thanks for posting Bud!

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hello Ken, I don’t know whether or not Next Level Racing have plans to adjust the pricing. . . Obviously, the rig is by no means a cheap item, but I suppose that’s the nature of this sort of equipment and I’d imagine the Boeing licensing might add a little premium also. I haven’t tried the Commercial Edition myself, but the two rigs look to be identical, other than the seat cushions / harness (which are both interchangeable, at least in theory). I actually didn’t realise ahead of the review, that the Commercial Edition has the “sheepskin” seat cushions, I might have gone with the commercial edition had I known. My pleasure on the video! Thanks very much once again and all the best : )

[@kenbarthSimAV8tor]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations I'll watch for a sale price; I am in no hurry eh; I already use my F-GT for my flight sim rig

[@cabdude2]

Great review, thank you. I’m thinking of getting one myself but I’m lacking in space. After seeing your sim ‘closet’ 😊 I think I might be okay. Would you mind sharing the dimensions of your room? I have the dimensions of the chair from the product spec sheet, but I’m curious to see how that fills out in an actual space.

[@MNHemiGuy]

Wondering the same thing. Also from back of seat to the controls.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi Chris, Thanks very much, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Haha, the mighty sim closet is 2.2m in length and 1.2 in width. That’s pretty much the limit, in terms of being able to accommodate the rig (you could probably shave a few more cm off the width and same on the length, depending on which way your door opens - mine opens indwards and brushes right past the rear of the seat, when the seat is set fully rearwards). If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch! Cheers : )

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi MNH, I hope my answer to Chris helps somewhat? The distance from the rear of the seat to the controls, obviously depends on where one has the seat positioned (it slides forward and aft) and also how the controls are set up. Did you have a specific config in mind? : )

[@cabdude2]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations thank you for sharing, apologies for the delay in responding, I’ve been in the process of moving. It’s been … emotional. Armed with your information I think I can squeeze a seat into my new office. Very excited about building my very own sim ‘closet’.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

My pleasure, Chris! Haha, having done a move quite recently myself, I can certainly empathise with you on that one! Best of luck setting up the sim cupboard and I do hope you enjoy the end result. Any more questions, feel free to give me a shout : )

[@benvanboom8907]

So you are a military Pilot…. (No need to answer that, my son is a Chinook Pilot so I know how it works), you might as well get yourself a good airco in that room. I have a 4090 RTX and now we don’t need a heater in the house anymore. Nice review, I am keen to buy one of their setups but didn’t do so until now. Thanks!😊

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

I’m not a military pilot Ben, though for sure part of me wishes I had been - hence the seat choice I suppose haha. Congrats to your son, I’m sure he’s having a brilliant time with it all (I was lucky enough to try one of the RAF’s Chinook simulators, that’s the closest I’ve ever gotten to flying a rotary aircraft)! Haha, I’ve just ordered the air con unit. The 4090 has been fine up until now, but I can’t imagine such a small room will be very pleasant once summer hits XD I can’t offer any comparison between the Next Level set up and other rigs, given that it’s the only rig I’ve tried, but if you have any more questions regarding the product etc, I’ll be happy to try and answer them : ) All the best!

[@benvanboom8907]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations 😊👍

[@krashatoms1832]

I bet that room gets pretty warm LOL.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! It does indeed get a bit “toasty” at times, yes XD

[@krashatoms1832]

i'd be sweating bombs lmao@@IntotheBlueSimulations

[@Glider324]

Did you notice any mounts for buttkicker transducer type hardware?

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi Glider, Yes, there is an optional mount for a transducer included, located towards the rear of the seat / frame. I have a transducer myself and it works well with the rig. I hope that helps. All the best! : )

[@Rahhhhhnman]

Felt like a bit of a diplomatic review 😉but that's fine, it sort of had to be. No sim setup will suit everyone, this could be a start though. What do you use the second computer for?

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Did you think so Rahman? I didn’t mean for it to be haha (no more than usual at any rate). I felt quite happy that I gave an accurate assessment of my findings with the rig and did point out negative aspects where I found them. Overall, I was pretty impressed with the product, but as I mentioned during the review, I don’t have any frame of reference as to how it compares with other rigs, not having used any previously. I don’t think there were any major surprises with the NLR rig and I’m sure it won’t suit everyone as you say, but other than the seat cushion, rudder pedal mounting solution (for the Saitek pedals at least) and the ease of access (or lack thereof), nothing stuck out as a major issue - I was very happy with the product overall. The 2nd PC is the one I was using previously. Currently it’s just there so that I can transfer files across etc, but at some point it will be repurposed (in what capacity, I’m not quite sure yet). Cheers as always! : )

[@donovanleighton5700]

How big is your monitor and how well does it wok with your head tracker? Many thanks.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi Donovan, At the time of recording, I was using a 48 inch screen and that seemed to be working just fine with TrackIR (albeit in a fairly dark room - ie no light interference). I haven’t tested extensively with the screen though, as the backlight is shot, so I was really only using that particular monitor for demonstration purposes during the video. I hope that clarifies things a little. All the best! : )

[@Glider324]

Can you move the chair and recline it relative to the stick to simulate sitting in a glider? Thanks!

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

The chair can be moved forwards and backwards, but so far as the recline goes, it’s only the seatback itself that moves. In short, you can’t really replicate a similar seated position to that of a typical glider. I hope that clarifies things. Cheers : )

[@pythosdegothos6181]

I see you too got bit by the Lego Saturn V bug. Great model isn't it? This rig looks good, do you still have it? What do you think a month later?

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, very much so! I don’t recall if you can see them in the video, but I also custom built a Redstone, Atlas, Titan and Saturn IB rocket, as well as a Saturn V kitted out with SkyLab - I got a bit carried away haha XD I still have the chair - very happy with it overall, I have to say. My only significant gripe was the deformation in the seat cushion and whilst that is still a bit of an issue, it’s sorted of “bedded in” at this point haha. No major faults with the product otherwise (and nothing outside of what I mentioned in the video), although I am on the fence about whether it’s staying or going. Currently, that room is the only space I have for simming / video creation and I do somewhat miss having a desk; 1) it makes editing a little more comfortable and 2) it actually makes recording a little simpler, as I can have charts, notes, checklists etc in front of me (on the desk). I still haven’t made my mind up just yet, but if you have a dedicated space, the Next Level rig seems to be a very solid offering overall : ) I hope that helps? If you have any further questions, feel free to let me know. All the best!

[@pythosdegothos6181]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations very nice about the rockets.

[@conlethbyrne4809]

Great video again, not for me. Bud, it looks like the next level setup & thanks for sharing 👍 Slainte 🎉 Have fun.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Thanks very much Conleth! Haha fair enough, of course! I wouldn’t expect this sort of product to be to everyone’s tastes (or budget), but I wasn’t going to pass NLR up on their very generous offer and thought / hoped that the video might be of interest to some ; ) A pleasure as always! Have a great weekend : )

[@conlethbyrne4809]

Pleasure is all mine, Slainte 👍

[@calinutza33]

There’s no immersion without VR. ! Once you fly in VR , you will never return back to 2 D screen !

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, I love VR Cali, but I’ve yet to find a decent way of recording with it. Once I tried VR, that was the only way I would / “could” sim thereafter, but when I started the channel, I had to get used to pancake simming again haha. Cheers, all the best! : )

[@dunbar555]

can you tell me how high about the ground sIts the base cushion seat ?

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi Dunbar, From the ground, to the base of the seat cushion, is about 430mm : ) I hope that helps. All the best!

[@marlbro-2473]

The question I think we all need an answer to is.... what on earth was that 'room' originally used for? 🤔

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, it was essentially a storage cupboard / “room” previously Marlbro - *not* the downstairs toilet, as someone else suggested! XD

[@HerbertHatstand]

It looks like you’ve converted downstairs loo to a flight simulator…..I guess it will get a bit hot in there with the PC running flat out.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! Almost, Herbert. It’s a small spare room that we had left over, so I figured why not make use of it, rather than keeping it as a storage cupboard. I think it will get a bit hot in the middle of the summer, so I may well have to invest in a little aircon unit. . . All the best!

[@Poserboy45]

Do you get the joystick 🕹️ and the other gaming stuff with other things😅

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, I’m afraid not, Arthur ; ) All the best!

[@Rnaylor61]

Are you still using this consistently? Would like to know if it sustains or if the novelty wears off after some time.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hello Fred, I would say that the novelty of having a “fighter jet” in your your study / living room does wear off, the utility of the rig itself doesn’t though. I think the main consideration would be available space; if you have plenty of room available then, the setup is nice to have however, if like me you’re a bit pressed for space, such a sizeable frame does start to “get in the way” after a while. I begrudgingly relegated my rig to the garage, as I really found myself missing a desk / study space (given the amount of video editing etc that I do). It’s not a slight on the product, I had no real issues with it (other than the mentioned cushion deformation) but, this sort of setup won’t suit everyone (depending on their living conditions). I hope that helps a little? All the best! : )

[@Rnaylor61]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations Thank you for your reply. It does help. It's a sizable investment for the hobby. Much appreciated!

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

You’re most welcome! Glad it was of some use : )

[@Kfirc2]

Does this seat allow the connection of a helicopter collective comfortably

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi Kfir, I’m afraid I’m not 100% sure, not owning any such controls myself however, I’m inclined to say probably not. You *might* be ok fitting a collective but, I don’t think the unit would be very well suited to mounting a cyclic. If you can get in touch with NLR themselves, they would probably be better placed to give you more detailed info. I hope that helps a little. All the best! : )

[@GreenProhpo]

does the chair move when u move the plane?

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hi DL, No, this particular setup is a static platform, not a motion rig. I hope that clarifies things. All the best : )

[@dreambound.]

Well so rigs are actually something I can put a somewhat educated opinion on. Next Level Racing certainly makes some nice products however you're better off with aluminium profile rigs. They're far more flexible when it comes to mountain different kinds of equipment and pretty much tailoring the rig to your needs. Due to their nature you also get more adjustment out of them. A bonus from the simracing world is the increased rigidity. Aluminium profile rigs are pretty much rock solid. You will need more time to build one though. Well at least my simracing degeneracy is actually useful for once.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, I shall have to take your word for it Dream, never having tried an aluminium rig myself. I certainly don’t feel the NLR rig need be any more sturdy (it’s pretty rock solid for flight simming), but perhaps a few more options in terms of adjustment would be nice (though the rig is still surprisingly customisable, as I tried my best to demonstrate). Sim racing, or flight simming - I can always appreciate a good sim degenerate and their opinions! ; )

[@dreambound.]

@@IntotheBlueSimulations Yea the rigidity is basically a necessity in simracing. Especially when you get a higher end wheelbase like a Simucube 2 Pro (or Ultimate if you enjoy having enough torque to break your arms) and some good pedals. So you basically always appreciate a man in crippling debt and their opinion? :p

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! Well, if one is crippled by debt owing to their hobby, then they’re obviously very dedicated to said hobby! : P

[@Deceter]

You could guess that you're a pilot just from your voice and cadence lol

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha, I do hear that from time to time, Matt. It’s not intentional, but it’s a habit I’ve picked up over the years I guess and it seems to have stuck (at least when it comes to commentary, it’s not to say that I talk like that all the time haha). All the best! : )

[@MorrisseysMonkey]

£700, I'd need to sell a kidney.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha! I can ask Next Level Racing whether they might consider a part exchange? XD It’s obviously not a cheap bit of kit and won’t necessarily be within everyone’s budget, but I was very keen to give it a go and thought the video might be of interest (particular to those who are considering a sim rig of course). I’d keep hold of the kidney for now though haha. Cheers Morrissey! All the best : )

[@MartusTube]

Kinda surreal seeing a $1000 seat with $150 pedals.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha. It is perhaps a bit of a mismatch, Martus, but as I mentioned in the video, I've always had a pretty conservative sim setup. The plan was / is to get a set of TPR's, but I haven't gotten around to that yet; so for now, just working with what I've got ; ) All the best!

[@caseyjones166]

Wow - I bet it gets pretty hot in there!

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Haha. It’s been ok thus far, Stephen, but I suspect I might well need some sort of aircon solution come the summer XD All the best : )

[@Carsonbrown747]

Hello

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hello Carson : )

[@perpetualomega]

How can you honestly review something you got for free?, if you gave it a bad review they wont send you anything again.

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

I can totally appreciate your point PO, but the simple answer is “just be honest” haha. I’m very fortunate, that the channel is now at a point where I am able to review such hardware and I am incredibly grateful to Next Level Racing for letting me take a look, but I value the integrity of the channel above all else (I also feel that I owe my viewers / the consumer an honest review). I’ve been reviewing flight sim products for nearly 3 years now and I’ve never had any major objections to the videos I put out - I think that says something about the veracity of my comments. As always, I tried my best to offer up my objective experiences whilst using the product; a review channel has little value, if the reviews themselves aren’t honest (so in the long run, chasing free products would be detrimental to the success of the channel). I hope that clarifies things a little. All the best : )

[@hoads123]

when money isn't a problem wow

[@jeremiel22]

Compatible XBOX???🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨

[@IntotheBlueSimulations]

Hello Jérémie, I presume you’re asking whether or not the seat is compatible with Xbox peripherals? I’m afraid I couldn’t give you an answer on that one, as I don’t own an Xbox myself. I’m sure if you get in touch with Next Level Racing, they would be able to give you the info about specific hardware compatibility. Sorry I can’t be of more help on that one. All the best : )