Drew,

 

Here are my thoughts.

 

1) Yes you need 3rd party textures, but you already have REX (not sure if FS9 textures work with FSX) and AS2012, so that isn't a problem.

 

2) Sorry not sure about that

 

3) Yes. Try them out. Takes a few minutes of the learning curve, so read the manual . Helps bring the whole experience alive.

 

4) Simple. Start FSX and don't start OPUS. It will be as if OPUS never existed!

 

 

Can't recommend it highly enough, and I own REX Essentials and AS2012 (which by the way are good programs in their own way)

 

Pete

OK, Thanks for the advice. I'm going to try it today.

 

Best Regards Drew

Hi Drew,

 

Re: textures, I was using my REX textures for awhile when I started with OPUS, but then Stephen and a few other users mentioned the Freeware HDE cloud textures (which have some options for different levels of resolution in their cloud sets too). I've been using them and find them excellent.

 

Re: frame rates, I can appreciate your concern here because without decent frames, it's less appealing. I can't say I've done any actual testing in comparison, but the feel for me and overall impression is that Opus is faster overall. Oh, and the other real plus is that the weather loading is virtually instant(!), so no more waiting and waiting for weather stations to compile for minutes.

 

I think the software is already fully up and running (ie. not like a Beta that "breaks" or freezes) and there are more updates on the way--in some cases nearly daily updates to improve functionality. Highly recommended to give a try.

 

Good luck

 

Alex Malek

I've figured out how to use the cameras now and also get the "shake and vibrations". For me it works way better than EZCA, and much easier and intuitive to setup, even though I never had much problem setting up EZCA.

I took off from KSEA in the rain with the clouds filling the sky. Even some dark ominous clouds.

I have never had such beautiful skies with realistic weather using REX or AS2012.

With Opus, there is no flashing to reload weather and no clean-out and reload. If you see clouds in the distance, that what you're going to fly into.

I am also using FSAltitude, and it is quite something to see the clouds break open and the hyper-real terrain below from FL350. A really great combination.

Opus is amazing at what it does. I am extremely happy with the purchase.