After reading the Avsim review, I was considering buying the Wilco CRJ-200/700/900 package (probably the CD). I was wondering if anyone had any opinions that they would like to share? I like flying milk runs in the PMDG 737 and I am hoping the CRJ is a similarly well-rounded, detailed and reliable package. How do the frame rates compare, especially in the VC? Is the Wilco FMS at least in the same ball park as the PMDG FMS? Are the systems modeled to a least a similar level of detail?As a related matter, does anyone recommend some small, regional airports in the U.S. (either default or add-on) that are fun to into and out of with the CRJ? I mainly interested in using the CRJ to fly from major hub airports into small airports.Thanks!!

You can find opinions already stated if you do a quick search on this forum. Also see AVSIM's recent review. I own the CRJ2. It's not in the same category as PMDG 737s; they're different airplanes, the CRJ2's FMS is mostly functional, the framerates in virtual cockpit mode are too slow for my computer (P4 2.2M, 1M RAM). The systems are modelled somewhat, but not same level as PMDG. Price between the two is also different. CRJ2 designers said from the beginning that it wouldn't be a complete systems simulation and that the target audience was not the advanced one. I like it and enjoy every time I fly it. Love the differences in handling; it makes it truly feel as a different airplane and not just a leajet with another panel. I'm still learning about those differences, and that's fun for me.Dave Vega

I stated in the first line of my original post that I had read the avsim review. Also, I searched the forum but found few opinions regarding the recent version. I'll check again.Thanks for the feedback, especially using the PMDG as a frame of reference because I'm very familiar with the PMDG. :-)Are the framerates in the Wilco CRJ VC generally lower than the framerates in the PMDG 737 VC? I ask because I enjoy using the VC. However, the framerate situation in my PMDG VC is close to borderline already on my current hardware and software setup (e.g., various FS9 add-ons). Regards.

In my PC the framerate is lower on the CRJ2 than on the PMDG 737. I've converted all the VC textures to DXT3 format. This improves the frame rate a bit, not it still very slow for my setup. So I fly with the 2D option only, and that produces a smooth flight. The sounds are great, plenty of liveries, and add ons. the documentation is definitively not in PMDG's class. If you haven't yet, suggest checking http://www.regional-jets.net/. You can download the docs and check before you buy. Regards,Dave Vega

I have the CRJ 200 and 900 packages from Wilco.What I like:- decent implementation, graphics, and a flight management system which has most basic functions implemented.- handling of the aircraft- good overall impression- fairly easy to learn- covered all the basic systems I'm looking for in an add-on- they tricked the model in that the FS9 engine thinks the plane has 3 engines to get better handling within the limitations of FS.- purchasing experienceWhat I like less:- GDI+ gauges are not antialiased- CDU (FMC) can only load flight plan if loaded in FS first - some mouse interface functions can get a little used to (setting the heading bug for example) - but I respect the design decision- Interesting choice of Wilco paint scheme in default product.What I do not like:- tech support forum can be edgy.- The product prides itself in not using FSUIPC, but can conflict with it (altimeter setting)- enabling turbulence in ActiveSky2004 caused my CRJ to crash on approach because the A/P couldn't hold a glideslope and cause the pitch trim to go off the scale. Solution from tech support: turn off turbulence in AS2004.Conclusion:I like the product and fly it regularly. I would recommend it in the hangar. You have to live with a few quirks, and the tech support department while responsive can also get testy. Payware products should work flawlessly with popular add-on software, especially if other aircraft add-ons manage to do it very successfuly. It is this kind of add-on that makes me wish for a try before you buy solution, which is not well supported by FS.I give it 3.5 stars out of 5.

Thanks for the info. I can get away with the VC + cabin option in PMDG. Perhaps I'll just drop the cabin option with the CRJ (although I'll miss the wing views for sure).

Thanks for the great review. Based on the comments, the CRJ seems to have a good flight model. That's a big plus. I'm concerned about the turbulence issue with AS2004. I really like dealing with turbulence in AS2004. Can you ride the a/p down to about 500ft agl with the turbulence option enabled?

Just to chime in with the others, nice product but it's not the PMDG level of complexity, sounds are very realistic too.Murrell