Hi fellasFor the last month, i have been doing some serious research about flightsim controllers, and the Saitek X52 hit me. It looks like a great joystick/throttle combo however is not cheap.Can someone please tell me if the Saitek X52 works with windows XP professional and is easy to set up for fs2004. Also can the HAT switch can be used to look left right up and down in the VC.Thank you.Also how well does the throttle work? thanks

Hi,I've used a X52 for over a year and find it works well in FS9. The original X52's (mine included)had some problems which I believe have been work out in todays' models. Mine failed after about a year of heavy FS9 use, but due to the excellent customer service at Saitek they replaced it with another one. Suggestion if you buy it: While their telephone tech support can be helpful, I've found that contacting them through their tech forum brings excellent results. It has a few hat switches so you should be able to program one to do what you want.I'm satisfied with the X52. The warrenty on mine (USA) is 2 years - I don't know if it's the same now.Have fun.

Thank youI just placed an order for the throttle/joystick combo, so it should be here next week.It was not cheap, but the ''free'' shipping helps reduce the cost..

They sometimes have refurbished items for about 69 bucks. I got mine this way and am happy with it. Only small problem I have is the impossibility, so far, to have non-linear response curves (e.g. rudder). Another small proble, since some parts are metallic there can be some electrostatic discharges that require a reset to regain control.

I've been using my set for awhile now, and have been very happy. It is quite easy to setup for fs9. Just plug it in and WinXP will recognize it. There is a bunch of configuration software for advanced programming, but you don't really need it for fs2004. I just assign the buttons right in the fs9 controller menu. Yes, the hats will work for panning your view in either the 2d or 3d cockpit. All you need to do is go into the fs9 controls menu and assign it properly. It is really easy. I don't use the throttle control much though, because I have the CH throttle quadrant. I had no problems using it, but the TQ is just so cool for multi-engine flying. I also don't use the twist control for rudder, but I have the CH pedals instead.

Good point about not needing the programming software for most items.Actually, I found that when i program one of the hat switches to move eyepoint (L,R,F,:(, there is an annoying hesitation when doing it by their progamming software. When I assign those funtions directly in FS9 it's fast and smooth!There are some cases where you have to use the Saitek software, but probbaly none too important. Example: I used the Saitek software to assign a button to bring up the weather screen and others for changing aircraft, location etc. Not a big deal. I like just Assigning it in fs9directly.