@@OtaQ Simhub just detects it natively as a "Forcefeel pad". Then it's just about tweaking the parameters to your liking through simhub. I opened a test session and started messing about, switching on and off different elements of feedback.
@@OtaQ I haven't tried it on one so can't tell for certain, but can't see why it won't work! I think you just need to make sure it's strapped well so it doesn't move underneath you which would be uncomfortable but otherwise it's like putting a padded cushion on top of a seat :)
I’ve had it since release I eventually ditched the next level racing software for SimHub as it supports more titles and introduces more tactile feedback options from telemetry with quicker response… it is also much stronger on the SimHub software as I have my HF8 hidden under the padding of my bucket seat and can still feel it very obviously in my arse 😁
1000%. I just got mine yesterday and immediately faced issues with their software. Simhub works flawlessly and doesn't have the same latecy issues. Was close to returning it before trying simhub, but with it I have 0 regrets with the purchase now
I am keen to do this. I don't want to ruin my Cobra Sebring GT comfort and quality. Hopefully, the stitching will be largely attached with this underneath
I pre-ordered one the minute it was announced and have it on my NLR Elite Rig. I had a buttkicker but it was a vibration/noise machine in my house. The HF8 was a disappointment when I first hooked it up but once I ditched the poor software and switched to SimHub it came alive! I can’t imagine not having it on my seat now. Brilliant with iRacing.
Had mine a couple of months already. Combo'd with a couple of buttkickers its a great experience. I use the HF8 for tyre slip and low revs - using Simhub for that. The 2 buttkickers do front and back suspension travel. Both are in effect to give me a gear shift clunk. Really pleased with it.
@@makavelli3943 yes, I like it. Buttkicker directly to the bottom of the seat. It I had to pick one, it would be buttkicker. The different frequencies and intensity really ups the immersion. The HF8 is good too, though! I like using the HF8 for curbs because you can feel it directly under right or left butt. BK much better for RPMs, gear changes. The pad does have some thickness to it, so I’m not 100% sure I’ll use it long term. I’ll probably use it for a few months, then take it away and see if I miss it.
Very interesting. I just got an NLR wheel stand 2.0 that I will end up getting the add-on seat for, and was wondering what certain effects you would pair buttkickers and the HF8. Now I think I have an idea for exactly which effects I would like to be able to feel. Tyre slip is a really good one, thanks!
My mate just got one of these to go in the $300.00 bargain of a sim rig that he picked up, and he loves it! It's his first tactile experience, which I think made a big difference to how much he appreciates it. I'm about to set him up with a powered Toslink (optical) converter to plug into the optical out on his TV, this avoids the need to use the 3.5mm jack in the the controller. Optical port uses the HDMI in audio from your console. Works with any HDMI input. Audio quality and strength will be much better that what comes through your controller. I run my speakers, buttkicker amp, and headset all from the same audio feed using a powered 3-way optical splitter. On Xbox, I find the output signal strength to be the strongest when using a Dolby Atmos headset.
I've built myself a 4 puck (seat) + 2 puck (pedals) + 1 big (whole rig) transducer setup a year ago. Driving it with simhub and it is a huge step up in immersion and feedback. So i definitely recommend either a DIY haptic or buying something like this HF8!
@@AtomicFrog77 Why not? If you got a house you are just fine. Just put some rubber mat under the simrig to avoid transferring all that energy into the ground and buy a semi-decent door that's not made from "IKEA wood".
@@karlhungus545 Pucks are around 18$/piece, for amp i got a small D class with USB DAC from aliexpress for 6$, one of em can drive 2 transcuders. So for the same 8 transcuder setup as this HF8 you'll get the stuff for around 180$ including cabling. It definitely takes some time to build and setup, but i love DIY. :) But i undestrand and absolutely recommend everyone to either buy this HF8 or build something to himself, because it is very immersive (especially with VR).
@@ohne_speed Ok, thanks. That would be about $280 CAD for me with exchange and shipping it here, plus my time and effort to buy it all and set it up. The HF8 I can get for about $30 more. I'll have to decide if the hassle is worth $30 I guess...
I bought it.... and.... I couldn't be happier, it gives the VR immersion another level. I think that having "smaller" zones makes it better for feeling different localized effects!!
I’ve been looking at this, a motion platform is not practical, due to the location of my rig, I felt this might be my solution for extra immersion whilst racing etc thanks for the review it’s helped make my mind up
I use mine on PS5/XSX, I use it with Astro A50’s. So instead of plugging into a duel sense controller I usually a USB DAC to split the sound. The results are awesome with GT7, Grid, ACC & Forza on XB.
I'm thinking to do the same but I also have to get a DD Pro base for PS5 because my CSL Elite Base dose not work properly on PS5...there goes 700 ..what chair do you use this with ?
@@blastu2fool hi there, I’m in the UK so I picked up the GT Omega Prime cockpit. It’s an Aluminium Profile rig so completely adjustable. I use a DDpro too as it compatible with PS/Xbox/PC. Been a racing game fan for years so the rig was a worth while investment and probably the best video game upgrade I’ve ever made. I picked up PSVR2 recently and when used with GT7 everything together is a epic experience 👊🤪👌🏁
I sold my Buttkicker and I really miss the feeling, but not the vibrations in the whole house waking up my wife, but I was waiting for your review of it to give it a try.
Personally found the bundled software so poor I regretted the purchase, Perhaps they have since updated it but out of the box it was terrible. Using Simhub is a huge improvement. The default software also clashed with my next level motion simulator meaning I could only run one or the other. I use the HF8 for engine revs, front wheel lock, and kerbs. Very happy with it when used with Simhub.
Hiya, Brilliant review. The only problem is the software. It is super buggy and sometimes it do not recognise the games. I use it for MSFS as well but that is just catastrophic. In 99% it doesn't connect to MSFS. For this special case I use Simshaker Aviator Software and the pad is recognised as Force Feel pad. For Simracing I use Simhub until NLR solves the bugs. Take care.
Hi Will ...all the way from Canada. Great review ...The HF8 is on my wife's list for Christmas gifts ...lol. I don't think washing it will be an issue. I've used the same seats in both my rigs (flying & racing) ...each have been used 3 years & have no odor (yet) & if so ...there are many spray products that will eliminate the worst farts imaginable ...lol. I put many hours in ...being retired & Canadian winters ...my concern would be the vibrating surface wearing through the perforated covering. Thanks for another thorough review, Brother. Great driving too!
A few questions: 1 - What would it be like with a single butt kicker added as well? 2 - How does it work with motion added? 3 - Is it a struggle to get seatbelt through it as well with the head rest pad?
Purchased the HF8 two days ago but only got the chance to set it up tonight. Took a while to set all the options the way I find suits me best... Also turned acceleration and speed off but used different settings elsewhere. Initially used the HF8 software but moved to simhub as it allowed more tweeting. After the first 10 minutes or so I was thinking of returning to amazon but persevered with the settings and now it is definitely staying... Have gone from a feeling of 'uhhhh' to 'I really like it'... Can't wait until my simagic haptic reactors arrive for my simjack pro's. I'm new to sim racing... would have been much better of financially not starting, costing me a fortune as I keep seeing something else that is a "must have". Now very happy with my purchase
I use a Woojer Haptic vest. It has 6 woolfers that put out vibrations directly to your body and you can adjust so someone standing next to you can’t hear a thing. I plug mine directly to my PSVR2 audio output and then from the vest to the headphones. You can also run it through the PlayStation 5 controller and the headset connects to the vest. I originally got it for FPS Shooter games but it also works well for racing games. 😉👍
I used to have a Woojer vest and ended up selling it as it was uncomfortable to wear sitting down. I wanted to enjoy it soo much but was dissapointed in the end. I think it would be perfect for VR standing games though
@@PageCrowes Oh yea, you can feel the engine rumble when you rev it. You can even feel the the individual bumps in the curbing on the turns when your wheels roll over them.
@@PageCrowes You can adjust the intensity for more or less and you can adjust the volume going to your headset. It gives you the same feedback as the seat thing in the video or on of those bass shakers that attach to the rig frame. The difference is this uses very low hertz bass speakers that are in front of you and in back that makes the sound and vibrations go in your body. If you ever felt a super loud sound go through you or you stood close to a firework going off or was at a concert near the front where the speakers are it is a similar experience except less intense than what I mentioned of course. That cushion thing in the video just has little whirling motors like in your controller that just send little vibrations. It’s like sitting on your controller but I would bet the girls would like it. 😜
@@edwardc5073 yeah I can't go without it, it's not amazing in terms of useful feedback but it does make it way more immersive. The one thing it really helps with is the position on the track. If for example you want to know if you are on a curb, the feedback really tells you that (I know FFB also tells you but it's more obvious with this). Also, you can set it up so it vibrates when you need to change gear which is also useful, however, it's mostly just for immersion (that alone makes it worth it for me as I cannot race without it)
I am a big believer in this type of device. My rig right now has a NLR v3 motion platform (a 2-axis seat mover) with a Buttkicker Gamer Pro attached to the motion platform, and a 4-channel sim racing studios seat shaker which puts mini transducers under your butt and thighs. The beauty of this setup is that both the BK and the SRS seat shaker are being driven by the NLR motion platform control software, which generates effects that perfectly complement the seat motion, and similarly to what was shown in this video, you can control which effects are sent to each of the 5 transducer channels (4 in the seat + the kicker). If you can't afford a full D-Box system, this is the next best thing in my opinion!
I ordered the hf8 too some days ago. I am positively surprised by the feedback and the immersion, after a few adjustments in simhub it feels quite good from my point of view and I get feedback from wheel lock, gear changes, bumps in the road etc. But I was surprised how fundamentally the mat changed my sitting position. i use a bucket seat (simlab speed 3) and my previous seating position really doesn't fit with the hf8 anymore. so not a bit back the seatslider, but really not at all. if i don't remove the cushion for the back and legs from the simlab seat, i sit much too high (then a considerable part of the thigh protrudes over the side shells) - but it's possible by removing the previous seat cushion. But you also sit much further forward, in my case so far that I can only lean my head against the seat if I practically tilt my head backwards 😅 the mat itself is not uncomfortable either, but I have the feeling that the comfort aspect means that I will probably return the HF8, although the feedback is really fun. Everybody that's interested should try it, but consider that with the mat almost all settings have to be adjusted again (pedals, steering wheel, position of the seat, etc.)
Bought this for 55$ brand new And at this price it is 100/10 worth it! Playing forza motor sport 8 on pc with a sim rig makes the experience phenomenal! I cannot imagine playing any racing sim without this haptic feedback! If you can find this on sale? BUY IT!
Awesome video Will and we’ll timed for me as I’m currently looking to add haptics to my current rig. One question, does it slide around/any movement once it’s fitted over the race seat? I just wondered if that’s an issue, especially when you’re braking heavily. Keep up the good work!
I think the difference in how loud it is a game changer. I had to get rid of my butt kicker due to the noise that it makes. Might need to look into this as an alternative
Exactly. I live in an apartment and realised very soon after installing that the Buttkicker wasn't going to be acceptable to my neighbours. This sorts that out.
@@tabs1913 what is the latency like on the HF8? I’ve heard a few complaints that it is quite high. People saying they drive over rumble strips and don’t feel the vibrations until they’re already past them etc
Audio mode works better for some things than others. It's crap for racing sims, but if you're on a PC then Simhub supports almost everything so you shouldn't need it for racing. It's so-so for combat flight sims, but it's actually pretty awesome for Mechwarrior 5 and Vox Machanea. For those games you don't really need localized feedback, just the general rumble of walking along in a 100 ton Mech, and the shakes and quakes of combat.
Loving mine sim hub software being used son sleeps in room next to me and no complaints on noise it feels awesome I'm off to tweak more settings I'm on a gaming chair fits snug and feels great 😃👍
Thanks for your comparison review. Just a point to note which your viewers may not realise. I cannot use a buttkicker or any other haptic device/motion device if it has a transducer-based system. The reason is that I have a PACEMAKER/ICD implant and cannot use strong magnetic field immitters such as found in transducers. My electro-cardiologist was quizzed about this and he said definately not as it may set off an incorrect reading or even admister a defibrillator shock to the heart mid game. Note, As a result of this, I have both the Next Level Racing HF8 pad ( DC motors) and a DOF Reality H6 Rig (DC brushless motors) for this very reason.
i also got this and it works only for iracing, couldnt get it running for AC and the other sims sadly yet i also have pretty similar settings compared to you, i didnt have the rev limiter on and the engine rpm on like 30%, but i do like the settings you have tbh, gonna do more testing with it
perfection is using both, but kicker and HF8 Haptic Gaming Pad if both are well tuned(subtlety is the secret i found it with my but kicker pro) is surely a dream, because i know but kicker can get those sub low frequencies that HF8 Haptic Gaming Pad cant so my next purchase , hidden from my wife, will be this Hf8 for those different vibrating location in the legs but and back and the ability of higher frequencies is a great deal, i know will be epic in DCS or iRacing
Really good as always ! Yeah creating a new account seems like a puzzle - no need. I looked for the links in the captions but couldnt find them... no bigge
Well i was completely disappointed with the audio on xbox, maybe the jack plug is faulty and nearly returned but usb on PC works very well on msfs anyway so will keep. Fantastic in depth review by the way!
Hey Will. Great review, as always. I have a question. Do you think this product could be used with the foldable seats as well? Would they be just as effective or do you think there would be some kind of loss from not being in a more rigid seat like the one you were using. I was thinkig about getting one of these for me, but I had the doubt... Thanks
Hey mate! Firstly, love your channel! I run a ButtKicker 2......would you recommend this HF8 to work alongside the ButtKicker? I only run my ButtKicker at around 25%. Cheers mate
thx for the great video...a question,...in the software setup, it shows 6 haptic inputs that can be setup for Buttkickers (4 wheels + pedals + under seat). Does the haptic game pad use up one of these (e.g. replacing the buttkicker under the seat) OR...can i have all 6 buttkickers and ALSO install and use the haptic pad?
'Hey brother.. Also using set in conjunction with Butt kicker & Wind. Could you share your HF8 profile, and maybe Simhub settings the for ButtKicker? thanks
hi, great work thanks! just a question, in audio mode does it also modulate frequency or do the vibrators just have a set frequency and modulate amplitude alone?
Hi Will, My question is will this cause any back issues or long term health problems since it's all vibrations? I'd like to be aware of that before I place an order.
Actually vibrations probably have healing effects. Search for "physio-acoustic sound therapy". Some also believe cat's purr because of those healing effects.
great review as always! i see its not compatible with beamng and rbr, will they add compatibilty later on or can it be used with other software like simhub?
Forget on the original software.It's a trash. Just use SimHUB and your experiance will be even greater than with the original software. Latence is much lower, vibration stronger and more accurate, and you have there much more settings for tweeking and adjusting for your liking. I am using it for Dirt 2.0, Assetto, ACC, Rfactor 2 and everything work flawlessly ;-)
thanks for a great review. I have a single buttkicker. But lack the left/right feel you get with 2 kickers. Would you say using both together would be an effective solution? also, could you tell me how long the USB cable is.
I can nowhere near afford a good butt kicker never mind a lighter motion rig and from this review I’ve seriously considered investing in this upgrade just to enhance the realism of my tiny rig but I think this is just what I needed in something of this type, it’s cheap, and provides from what you’ve said good enough vibration for me super cool thanks mate
@@WheelGamer2 crazy to think about 8 ish months ago I did get it, for 200 bucks it really was worth the price and it was cool tuning it and learning how to understand the vibrations and feeling the curbs. My one gripe with it was there was some delay or lag which I think was purely system based because I have a crappy computer. So it was really only effective in slower cars like gt, rally or other things but for f1 the input lag was too great but it’s really because my computer was too slow. Overall it’s really fun, if you want immersion and all plus some of that extra butt feel it was really cool to use even paired up with higher end gear it still added an extra umpfff in the butt that most rigs are missing. I would say if it was this or butt kickers (many) I’d say to look at them like completely different products. The butt kickers won’t be as precise or localized but they will give you that blunt force motion of a real car while this will give you a really precise less powerful rumble feel that will communicate the car’s motion much more accurately That was my take when using it, hope this helps
Is there any chance of reviewing the Realteus ForceFeel and the Ushake 6 seat insert please? From what I can see they use more traditional haptic transducers but are built in a very similar way. Great video and more positive of the product than I have previously seen. 👍
The Realteus forcefeel is almost the same as the HF8. It was bought by NLR and slightly refined (possibly better padding). It also uses vibration motors, probably the same ones. The Ushake 6 is very interesting, but if I'm not mistaken it has no audio input which I would need to run it with PS5 games without UDP telemetry.
I was about to grab one at launch but noticed it's swamp a55 plastic only. Fabric covered version will better for Queensland... Would love to see how they last in the long run, especially the coverings.
Hi man, what is the exact name of your wheelbase and wheel? And what is the pricepoint, and best place to get it from? Love your well made videos btw... Great!
Hi mate have you tried slip-angle transducers bit more expensive not bad though if haven't check out simracing 604 why is my rig on springs there stronger now springs are now in proper housing
so hey a more specific question: does it take another TCP/UP port to run, and will it conflict with other stuff like motion platform and shakeit wind etc? and can you specific the port used?
Is it possible to combine this with buttkicker and get the best of both worlds? Maybe restrict HF8 to the effects it does better than buttkicker, and let buttkicker handle the effects where it was surperior in?
Maybe I missed it, but can you feel when the rear steps out? Or on a rally game, can you feel a slide vs not? I'm guessing that's in the suspension category, but wanted to confirm. Thanks so much!
Great overview, but anything that prevents me from going straight into my TV with audio and video and then using eARC for my 7.1 system is an instant dealbreaker because that really is the only way to never have any issues with video and audio in my setup. So what I‘d need is a software audio extractor that can then route the signal out of the motherboard‘s or front panels stereo jack while my TV still receives the full 7.1 signal via HDMI. A physical adapter in the HDMI pipeline is not an option as such things would likely cause further dropouts. The HDMI 2.1 pipeline just isn‘t stable enough for that.
I was interested in this for GT7 but knowing it's only going to cover what the controllers vibrations would on a bigger scale I'm not sure that it'll be worth it. Maybe in a couple of years when I come to look at PC builds
Cannot help but feel this is a direct copy of the Realtus ForceFree seat pad.( I was one of the few that actually got one before the company seemed to vanish) and to be honest it was a great product.
only just seen this video and take what you say over any other reviews of sim racing equipment think i may end up with one before too long so i can feel what the car is doing
I’m also wondering if this would work alongside a buttkicker, or is the delay in feedback on the HF8 gonna feel out of sync with the faster responding transducer on the BK?
@@tabs1913just curious. Have you tried it using the individual software apps? Good to know it works in simhub, but I have not gone down the rabbit hole of simhub yet. It’s on the to do list for sure, just working on higher level to-do list at the moment.
I use the PS5 and Xbox X console. What USB DAC can be used to connect the HF8 USB? instead of the game controller to get the better performance vibrations like the PC connections? Also, how do you make the connections to the PS5 or Xbox x from the DAC to the HF8 gaming PAD?
Does the firmware need to be updated on the HF8 or is plug and play ready? Cause I just ordered it but I’m seeing people recommend simhub tho I’m not sure if it’s gonna need a firmware update and can I do it through simhub? Thanks In advance!
Just saying, in the Video description you are linking to your Buttkicker Review... you misspelled it tho and it actually says "Buttlicker" 😂
This comment needs more likes LOL
"How dare you! My family built this country by the way."
- Jim Halpert AKA Bill Buttlicker
Lmao. Thought we’d fixed it before anyone noticed. 😂
Hahah epic 😂
If that wasn't on purpose I'm upset.
Having had this for about 6 weeks now, and having dialled it in properly for iRacing, it really is good. Very, very impressed for the price.
Good to hear. How do your dialed in settings compare to mine?
@@boostedmedia Great question, would also like to know!
@@OtaQ Simhub just detects it natively as a "Forcefeel pad". Then it's just about tweaking the parameters to your liking through simhub. I opened a test session and started messing about, switching on and off different elements of feedback.
@@MatthewScerriM Do you think there could be a problem with my Playseat Challenge?
@@OtaQ I haven't tried it on one so can't tell for certain, but can't see why it won't work! I think you just need to make sure it's strapped well so it doesn't move underneath you which would be uncomfortable but otherwise it's like putting a padded cushion on top of a seat :)
I’ve had it since release I eventually ditched the next level racing software for SimHub as it supports more titles and introduces more tactile feedback options from telemetry with quicker response… it is also much stronger on the SimHub software as I have my HF8 hidden under the padding of my bucket seat and can still feel it very obviously in my arse 😁
1000%. I just got mine yesterday and immediately faced issues with their software. Simhub works flawlessly and doesn't have the same latecy issues. Was close to returning it before trying simhub, but with it I have 0 regrets with the purchase now
I am keen to do this. I don't want to ruin my Cobra Sebring GT comfort and quality. Hopefully, the stitching will be largely attached with this underneath
I pre-ordered one the minute it was announced and have it on my NLR Elite Rig. I had a buttkicker but it was a vibration/noise machine in my house. The HF8 was a disappointment when I first hooked it up but once I ditched the poor software and switched to SimHub it came alive! I can’t imagine not having it on my seat now. Brilliant with iRacing.
I had completely same experience. I wanted to send it back. But then I tried SimHUB and it blows my mind. Wow. It's completely different product 😀
Had mine a couple of months already. Combo'd with a couple of buttkickers its a great experience. I use the HF8 for tyre slip and low revs - using Simhub for that. The 2 buttkickers do front and back suspension travel. Both are in effect to give me a gear shift clunk. Really pleased with it.
Finally someone who has done this! I have the HF8 and trying to decide if a single Butt kicker pro on back of seat would also be beneficial
@@danielhass4812 did you end up going for the combo of the HF8 and Buttkicker pro
@@makavelli3943 yes, I like it. Buttkicker directly to the bottom of the seat. It I had to pick one, it would be buttkicker. The different frequencies and intensity really ups the immersion. The HF8 is good too, though! I like using the HF8 for curbs because you can feel it directly under right or left butt. BK much better for RPMs, gear changes. The pad does have some thickness to it, so I’m not 100% sure I’ll use it long term. I’ll probably use it for a few months, then take it away and see if I miss it.
@@danielhass4812 ah nice, I might try this myself, one buttkicker under the seat paired with the HF8
Very interesting. I just got an NLR wheel stand 2.0 that I will end up getting the add-on seat for, and was wondering what certain effects you would pair buttkickers and the HF8. Now I think I have an idea for exactly which effects I would like to be able to feel. Tyre slip is a really good one, thanks!
My mate just got one of these to go in the $300.00 bargain of a sim rig that he picked up, and he loves it!
It's his first tactile experience, which I think made a big difference to how much he appreciates it. I'm about to set him up with a powered Toslink (optical) converter to plug into the optical out on his TV, this avoids the need to use the 3.5mm jack in the the controller. Optical port uses the HDMI in audio from your console. Works with any HDMI input. Audio quality and strength will be much better that what comes through your controller. I run my speakers, buttkicker amp, and headset all from the same audio feed using a powered 3-way optical splitter. On Xbox, I find the output signal strength to be the strongest when using a Dolby Atmos headset.
Just bought this off the back of your video, have you say I’m extremely happy, so thank you for the video :)
I've built myself a 4 puck (seat) + 2 puck (pedals) + 1 big (whole rig) transducer setup a year ago. Driving it with simhub and it is a huge step up in immersion and feedback. So i definitely recommend either a DIY haptic or buying something like this HF8!
@@AtomicFrog77 Why not? If you got a house you are just fine. Just put some rubber mat under the simrig to avoid transferring all that energy into the ground and buy a semi-decent door that's not made from "IKEA wood".
That setup sounds a LOT more expensive though, when you include the amp and all the cabling etc., not to mention a lot of setup.
@@karlhungus545 Pucks are around 18$/piece, for amp i got a small D class with USB DAC from aliexpress for 6$, one of em can drive 2 transcuders. So for the same 8 transcuder setup as this HF8 you'll get the stuff for around 180$ including cabling. It definitely takes some time to build and setup, but i love DIY. :) But i undestrand and absolutely recommend everyone to either buy this HF8 or build something to himself, because it is very immersive (especially with VR).
@@ohne_speed Ok, thanks. That would be about $280 CAD for me with exchange and shipping it here, plus my time and effort to buy it all and set it up. The HF8 I can get for about $30 more. I'll have to decide if the hassle is worth $30 I guess...
@@karlhungus545 If you find it a hassle, just go with the HF8! :) If you wan't to build spmething custom, only then go the other route.
This could replace my wife who currently gives my chair a wiggle when I go over a curb.
Dedicated wife
she probably thinks the same about you..
@@antjones2281 women replaced us with vibration motors decades ago
@@antjones2281I don't think you got what he was trying to say.
I bought it.... and.... I couldn't be happier, it gives the VR immersion another level. I think that having "smaller" zones makes it better for feeling different localized effects!!
I’ve been looking at this, a motion platform is not practical, due to the location of my rig, I felt this might be my solution for extra immersion whilst racing etc thanks for the review it’s helped make my mind up
Get a DIY buttkicker setup. It's so immersive. I promise
I use mine on PS5/XSX, I use it with Astro A50’s. So instead of plugging into a duel sense controller I usually a USB DAC to split the sound. The results are awesome with GT7, Grid, ACC & Forza on XB.
I'm thinking to do the same but I also have to get a DD Pro base for PS5 because my CSL Elite Base dose not work properly on PS5...there goes 700 ..what chair do you use this with ?
@@blastu2fool hi there, I’m in the UK so I picked up the GT Omega Prime cockpit. It’s an Aluminium Profile rig so completely adjustable. I use a DDpro too as it compatible with PS/Xbox/PC. Been a racing game fan for years so the rig was a worth while investment and probably the best video game upgrade I’ve ever made. I picked up PSVR2 recently and when used with GT7 everything together is a epic experience 👊🤪👌🏁
What USB DAC do you use for this? Also, how do you make the connections to the PS5 and the HF8 gaming PAD?
@@viperx220racing3do you mind sharing a pic of that USB DAC setup for the audio split?
@@viperx220racing3hi there. Is it possible to give us more information please about the connection you did?
I sold my Buttkicker and I really miss the feeling, but not the vibrations in the whole house waking up my wife, but I was waiting for your review of it to give it a try.
Personally found the bundled software so poor I regretted the purchase, Perhaps they have since updated it but out of the box it was terrible. Using Simhub is a huge improvement. The default software also clashed with my next level motion simulator meaning I could only run one or the other. I use the HF8 for engine revs, front wheel lock, and kerbs. Very happy with it when used with Simhub.
i love mine and i use it on squad and star citizen 100% worth a buy ive had mine day one
Hiya,
Brilliant review. The only problem is the software. It is super buggy and sometimes it do not recognise the games.
I use it for MSFS as well but that is just catastrophic. In 99% it doesn't connect to MSFS. For this special case I use Simshaker Aviator Software and the pad is recognised as Force Feel pad.
For Simracing I use Simhub until NLR solves the bugs.
Take care.
Everything works perfectly fine. with mfs2020? Are the feelings good?
@@hardbot_On
Newest software is stable. Immersion is good
Hi Will ...all the way from Canada. Great review ...The HF8 is on my wife's list for Christmas gifts ...lol. I don't think washing it will be an issue. I've used the same seats in both my rigs (flying & racing) ...each have been used 3 years & have no odor (yet) & if so ...there are many spray products that will eliminate the worst farts imaginable ...lol. I put many hours in ...being retired & Canadian winters ...my concern would be the vibrating surface wearing through the perforated covering. Thanks for another thorough review, Brother. Great driving too!
Thank you for all you do with your channel. I love the HF8
A few questions:
1 - What would it be like with a single butt kicker added as well?
2 - How does it work with motion added?
3 - Is it a struggle to get seatbelt through it as well with the head rest pad?
Purchased the HF8 two days ago but only got the chance to set it up tonight. Took a while to set all the options the way I find suits me best... Also turned acceleration and speed off but used different settings elsewhere. Initially used the HF8 software but moved to simhub as it allowed more tweeting.
After the first 10 minutes or so I was thinking of returning to amazon but persevered with the settings and now it is definitely staying... Have gone from a feeling of 'uhhhh' to 'I really like it'... Can't wait until my simagic haptic reactors arrive for my simjack pro's.
I'm new to sim racing... would have been much better of financially not starting, costing me a fortune as I keep seeing something else that is a "must have". Now very happy with my purchase
I use a Woojer Haptic vest. It has 6 woolfers that put out vibrations directly to your body and you can adjust so someone standing next to you can’t hear a thing. I plug mine directly to my PSVR2 audio output and then from the vest to the headphones. You can also run it through the PlayStation 5 controller and the headset connects to the vest. I originally got it for FPS Shooter games but it also works well for racing games. 😉👍
I used to have a Woojer vest and ended up selling it as it was uncomfortable to wear sitting down. I wanted to enjoy it soo much but was dissapointed in the end. I think it would be perfect for VR standing games though
How was it for gt7? Add to immersion
@@PageCrowes Oh yea, you can feel the engine rumble when you rev it. You can even feel the the individual bumps in the curbing on the turns when your wheels roll over them.
@@RickMidds what can you adjust on ps5 on it. Just intensity on vest going thru vr2 headset
@@PageCrowes You can adjust the intensity for more or less and you can adjust the volume going to your headset. It gives you the same feedback as the seat thing in the video or on of those bass shakers that attach to the rig frame. The difference is this uses very low hertz bass speakers that are in front of you and in back that makes the sound and vibrations go in your body. If you ever felt a super loud sound go through you or you stood close to a firework going off or was at a concert near the front where the speakers are it is a similar experience except less intense than what I mentioned of course. That cushion thing in the video just has little whirling motors like in your controller that just send little vibrations. It’s like sitting on your controller but I would bet the girls would like it. 😜
Just bought one! I saw this a while ago but I was waiting for your review :) I play solely iRacing in VR, I hope Im going to like it!
Did you like it?
@@edwardc5073 yeah I can't go without it, it's not amazing in terms of useful feedback but it does make it way more immersive. The one thing it really helps with is the position on the track. If for example you want to know if you are on a curb, the feedback really tells you that (I know FFB also tells you but it's more obvious with this). Also, you can set it up so it vibrates when you need to change gear which is also useful, however, it's mostly just for immersion (that alone makes it worth it for me as I cannot race without it)
I just got mine the other day and almost returned it untill i installed simhub, now i cant stop wanting to race in VR!!!
Do you know if it works for GT7 ?
I am a big believer in this type of device. My rig right now has a NLR v3 motion platform (a 2-axis seat mover) with a Buttkicker Gamer Pro attached to the motion platform, and a 4-channel sim racing studios seat shaker which puts mini transducers under your butt and thighs.
The beauty of this setup is that both the BK and the SRS seat shaker are being driven by the NLR motion platform control software, which generates effects that perfectly complement the seat motion, and similarly to what was shown in this video, you can control which effects are sent to each of the 5 transducer channels (4 in the seat + the kicker).
If you can't afford a full D-Box system, this is the next best thing in my opinion!
I have the same on my rig from NLR like you,plus the traction plus,and its absulte fantastic how its works alltogether
Nice review.
My concern is the amount of cables and straps. I certainly don't want more and it appears there are unused cables.
good vid as always . you should have a look at the SRS U-SHAKE6 .
I ordered the hf8 too some days ago. I am positively surprised by the feedback and the immersion, after a few adjustments in simhub it feels quite good from my point of view and I get feedback from wheel lock, gear changes, bumps in the road etc.
But I was surprised how fundamentally the mat changed my sitting position. i use a bucket seat (simlab speed 3) and my previous seating position really doesn't fit with the hf8 anymore. so not a bit back the seatslider, but really not at all. if i don't remove the cushion for the back and legs from the simlab seat, i sit much too high (then a considerable part of the thigh protrudes over the side shells) - but it's possible by removing the previous seat cushion. But you also sit much further forward, in my case so far that I can only lean my head against the seat if I practically tilt my head backwards 😅 the mat itself is not uncomfortable either, but I have the feeling that the comfort aspect means that I will probably return the HF8, although the feedback is really fun.
Everybody that's interested should try it, but consider that with the mat almost all settings have to be adjusted again (pedals, steering wheel, position of the seat, etc.)
Bought this for 55$ brand new
And at this price it is 100/10 worth it!
Playing forza motor sport 8 on pc with a sim rig makes the experience phenomenal!
I cannot imagine playing any racing sim without this haptic feedback!
If you can find this on sale?
BUY IT!
Wow, where did you get it from?
Awesome video Will and we’ll timed for me as I’m currently looking to add haptics to my current rig. One question, does it slide around/any movement once it’s fitted over the race seat? I just wondered if that’s an issue, especially when you’re braking heavily.
Keep up the good work!
I think the difference in how loud it is a game changer. I had to get rid of my butt kicker due to the noise that it makes.
Might need to look into this as an alternative
Exactly. I live in an apartment and realised very soon after installing that the Buttkicker wasn't going to be acceptable to my neighbours. This sorts that out.
@@jarrodclyne707 have you purchased this then? Would you recommend it?
@@andrewowens6191 I use the buttkickers and this together. The HF8 is basically silent if you're not in the room with it.
@@tabs1913 what is the latency like on the HF8?
I’ve heard a few complaints that it is quite high. People saying they drive over rumble strips and don’t feel the vibrations until they’re already past them etc
@@andrewowens6191 I don't notice latency, but then I'm using SimHub rather than the standard software which could be the reason.
Audio mode works better for some things than others. It's crap for racing sims, but if you're on a PC then Simhub supports almost everything so you shouldn't need it for racing. It's so-so for combat flight sims, but it's actually pretty awesome for Mechwarrior 5 and Vox Machanea. For those games you don't really need localized feedback, just the general rumble of walking along in a 100 ton Mech, and the shakes and quakes of combat.
Thanks very much for your comment. I was wondering how MW5 Merc would go with this. Was your combat sim comment in regards to DCS?
@@Oz_Gnarly_One No, Warplanes: WWI Fighters. I haven't tried it with DCS.
Loving mine sim hub software being used son sleeps in room next to me and no complaints on noise it feels awesome I'm off to tweak more settings I'm on a gaming chair fits snug and feels great 😃👍
Finally, the review I need from the channel I trust.
Purchased! Looking forward to using it!!
Thanks for your comparison review. Just a point to note which your viewers may not realise. I cannot use a buttkicker or any other haptic device/motion device if it has a transducer-based system. The reason is that I have a PACEMAKER/ICD implant and cannot use strong magnetic field immitters such as found in transducers. My electro-cardiologist was quizzed about this and he said definately not as it may set off an incorrect reading or even admister a defibrillator shock to the heart mid game. Note, As a result of this, I have both the Next Level Racing HF8 pad ( DC motors) and a DOF Reality H6 Rig (DC brushless motors) for this very reason.
Specifically, how does it convey grip loss on acceleration/braking and lateral sway on direction change?
i also got this and it works only for iracing, couldnt get it running for AC and the other sims sadly yet
i also have pretty similar settings compared to you, i didnt have the rev limiter on and the engine rpm on like 30%, but i do like the settings you have tbh, gonna do more testing with it
perfection is using both, but kicker and HF8 Haptic Gaming Pad if both are well tuned(subtlety is the secret i found it with my but kicker pro) is surely a dream, because i know but kicker can get those sub low frequencies that HF8 Haptic Gaming Pad cant so my next purchase , hidden from my wife, will be this Hf8 for those different vibrating location in the legs but and back and the ability of higher frequencies is a great deal, i know will be epic in DCS or iRacing
Thanks for the review... just ordered mine! :)
Really good as always ! Yeah creating a new account seems like a puzzle - no need. I looked for the links in the captions but couldnt find them... no bigge
Well i was completely disappointed with the audio on xbox, maybe the jack plug is faulty and nearly returned but usb on PC works very well on msfs anyway so will keep. Fantastic in depth review by the way!
Hey Will. Great review, as always. I have a question. Do you think this product could be used with the foldable seats as well? Would they be just as effective or do you think there would be some kind of loss from not being in a more rigid seat like the one you were using. I was thinkig about getting one of these for me, but I had the doubt... Thanks
on my sim i have a proper car seat and it works fine so the answer is yes
I am wondering this as well. If it’ll still be a good purchase with next level foldable GT seat.
@@mattguy1030 it should be fine i was surprised how powerful the feedback is on it
Do you think this would together well with the Logitech G Pro Wheel’s True Force? In terms of synchronization
Hey mate! Firstly, love your channel! I run a ButtKicker 2......would you recommend this HF8 to work alongside the ButtKicker? I only run my ButtKicker at around 25%. Cheers mate
Reminds me of the SubPac I have but that's just one subwoofer shooting whatever low frequencies into your back that your audio source is spitting out.
thx for the great video...a question,...in the software setup, it shows 6 haptic inputs that can be setup for Buttkickers (4 wheels + pedals + under seat).
Does the haptic game pad use up one of these (e.g. replacing the buttkicker under the seat)
OR...can i have all 6 buttkickers and ALSO install and use the haptic pad?
'Hey brother.. Also using set in conjunction with Butt kicker & Wind. Could you share your HF8 profile, and maybe Simhub settings the for ButtKicker? thanks
Love the product reviews on this channel.
hi, great work thanks!
just a question, in audio mode does it also modulate frequency or do the vibrators just have a set frequency and modulate amplitude alone?
Hi Will,
My question is will this cause any back issues or long term health problems since it's all vibrations?
I'd like to be aware of that before I place an order.
I’m not a medical professional but I think it’s highly unlikely at the low amplitude vibration levels it operates at.
@Boosted Media Thanks alot for the response. It helps alot in making the decision.
Actually vibrations probably have healing effects. Search for "physio-acoustic sound therapy".
Some also believe cat's purr because of those healing effects.
great review as always! i see its not compatible with beamng and rbr, will they add compatibilty later on or can it be used with other software like simhub?
Forget on the original software.It's a trash. Just use SimHUB and your experiance will be even greater than with the original software. Latence is much lower, vibration stronger and more accurate, and you have there much more settings for tweeking and adjusting for your liking. I am using it for Dirt 2.0, Assetto, ACC, Rfactor 2 and everything work flawlessly ;-)
I have a buttkicker! It’s amazing. Total game changer!
Does it come with hemorrhoid cream?
@@billbaggins1688 😂 lol good one
thanks for a great review. I have a single buttkicker. But lack the left/right feel you get with 2 kickers. Would you say using both together would be an effective solution? also, could you tell me how long the USB cable is.
I can nowhere near afford a good butt kicker never mind a lighter motion rig and from this review I’ve seriously considered investing in this upgrade just to enhance the realism of my tiny rig but I think this is just what I needed in something of this type, it’s cheap, and provides from what you’ve said good enough vibration for me super cool thanks mate
Did you ever get it, and if yes how was it?
@@WheelGamer2 crazy to think about 8 ish months ago I did get it, for 200 bucks it really was worth the price and it was cool tuning it and learning how to understand the vibrations and feeling the curbs.
My one gripe with it was there was some delay or lag which I think was purely system based because I have a crappy computer. So it was really only effective in slower cars like gt, rally or other things but for f1 the input lag was too great but it’s really because my computer was too slow.
Overall it’s really fun, if you want immersion and all plus some of that extra butt feel it was really cool to use even paired up with higher end gear it still added an extra umpfff in the butt that most rigs are missing.
I would say if it was this or butt kickers (many) I’d say to look at them like completely different products. The butt kickers won’t be as precise or localized but they will give you that blunt force motion of a real car while this will give you a really precise less powerful rumble feel that will communicate the car’s motion much more accurately
That was my take when using it, hope this helps
Is there any chance of reviewing the Realteus ForceFeel and the Ushake 6 seat insert please? From what I can see they use more traditional haptic transducers but are built in a very similar way. Great video and more positive of the product than I have previously seen. 👍
The Realteus forcefeel is almost the same as the HF8. It was bought by NLR and slightly refined (possibly better padding). It also uses vibration motors, probably the same ones. The Ushake 6 is very interesting, but if I'm not mistaken it has no audio input which I would need to run it with PS5 games without UDP telemetry.
I was about to grab one at launch but noticed it's swamp a55 plastic only. Fabric covered version will better for Queensland...
Would love to see how they last in the long run, especially the coverings.
Probably better to just throw a towel over it anyway. That way the towel can be easily washed.
Depending on your rig and seat you could easily throw a seat cover over it.
Hi man, what is the exact name of your wheelbase and wheel? And what is the pricepoint, and best place to get it from? Love your well made videos btw... Great!
What should I look for when building a PC only for racing games? Suggestions on graphics card, memory, etc? THANK YOU!!!!!
I’m interested to try this on my NLR F-GT Lite foldable cockpit!
hows the comfort? i do a lot of endurance races and im worried about sitting on motors for hours at a time.
Great review.....would be nice if GT7 have a support for those kind of thing....
Hi mate have you tried slip-angle transducers bit more expensive not bad though if haven't check out simracing 604 why is my rig on springs there stronger now springs are now in proper housing
so hey a more specific question: does it take another TCP/UP port to run, and will it conflict with other stuff like motion platform and shakeit wind etc? and can you specific the port used?
Loving mine! Such a bang for the buck. You gotta own this product.
Is it possible to combine this with buttkicker and get the best of both worlds?
Maybe restrict HF8 to the effects it does better than buttkicker, and let buttkicker handle the effects where it was surperior in?
Engine = buttkicker 👌.
Maybe I missed it, but can you feel when the rear steps out? Or on a rally game, can you feel a slide vs not? I'm guessing that's in the suspension category, but wanted to confirm. Thanks so much!
Great vid! Wondering if this combined with a butt kicker would be a sensible option... or does the cost get too close to something even better then?
Should have read the comments I suppose :)
@Boosted Media What about a delay??? You did not mention any delay. Isn't there any?
Nothing that I noticed
@@boostedmedia Great! Thank you for your answer :)
Hey Will, do you also feel that the motors below the bottom and the ones on the lower back have less power than the other ones?
Great overview, but anything that prevents me from going straight into my TV with audio and video and then using eARC for my 7.1 system is an instant dealbreaker because that really is the only way to never have any issues with video and audio in my setup. So what I‘d need is a software audio extractor that can then route the signal out of the motherboard‘s or front panels stereo jack while my TV still receives the full 7.1 signal via HDMI. A physical adapter in the HDMI pipeline is not an option as such things would likely cause further dropouts. The HDMI 2.1 pipeline just isn‘t stable enough for that.
This might do what you’re needing - vb-audio.com/Voicemeeter/banana.htm
One of your best reviews 😀
hi! What about using a ButtKicker and the Haptic Gaming Pad at the same time?
I just got one at a sale price. Not too bad. I will add a shaker to the bottom of my pedals. That should give me enough immersion until....
Been waiting for a review of this
Thanks will
I was interested in this for GT7 but knowing it's only going to cover what the controllers vibrations would on a bigger scale I'm not sure that it'll be worth it.
Maybe in a couple of years when I come to look at PC builds
Get butt kickers or alternatives .
Cannot help but feel this is a direct copy of the Realtus ForceFree seat pad.( I was one of the few that actually got one before the company seemed to vanish) and to be honest it was a great product.
Hi will, have tried this with sim hub, it seems easier to dial in, do you have some recomended settings to use there? :)
only just seen this video and take what you say over any other reviews of sim racing equipment think i may end up with one before too long so i can feel what the car is doing
Really comprehensive review thank you
Thanks for the video! I have a Buttkicker, but I can't use it because my rig is right over where my wife watches TV. This might be the answer.
I’m also wondering if this would work alongside a buttkicker, or is the delay in feedback on the HF8 gonna feel out of sync with the faster responding transducer on the BK?
I was wondering the same
Using simhub there is no delay. I have the HF8 and 2 buttkickers and it's awesome.
@@tabs1913just curious. Have you tried it using the individual software apps? Good to know it works in simhub, but I have not gone down the rabbit hole of simhub yet. It’s on the to do list for sure, just working on higher level to-do list at the moment.
FYI: Xbox has controls to allow audio through HDMI and Headset at the same time.
Would you say you can run these for longer stints ? Like >1 Hour ? Or is it just a gimmickie feature that you will lose intrest in ?
How does this transmit over and understeer? You didnt mention at all. You said "what the car is doing" but what does that mean exactly?
I use the PS5 and Xbox X console. What USB DAC can be used to connect the HF8 USB? instead of the game controller to get the better performance vibrations like the PC connections? Also, how do you make the connections to the PS5 or Xbox x from the DAC to the HF8 gaming PAD?
If you have found a solution please can you share it with us?
most home audio receivers have a thruput on RCA in the back. just get an RCA to female 3.5 jack. and tap into it that way. leaves everything as is.
You mean that we should connect the rca to the audio receiver instead of the headset?
Did you turn off settings in SimHub for the ButtKicker when combining this?
Does the firmware need to be updated on the HF8 or is plug and play ready? Cause I just ordered it but I’m seeing people recommend simhub tho I’m not sure if it’s gonna need a firmware update and can I do it through simhub? Thanks In advance!
if this now works with simhub, does that mean you can get the telemetry from GT7 to a PC and use that instead of audio for better results?
I wonder if you can use wipes to clean it once a week? Twice or every time after endurance runs
Thanks for the video looks like perfect next upgrade for me as living in an appartment
Great review. just ordered one.
Great review, as always!
If its feels tires and tires situation well thn ok for me.. I'd like to feel my tires still on the track or not :) Nice review as always thank you.
My only question is can you feel wheelspin? That’s my biggest issue on f1 22
Mine should arrive this week, so excited to use it. Is anyone using it along with the Buttkicker?
How is it?
@@alainaverio9245 It works great. Using Simhub vs the next level software. Also use with my buttkicker. Great tactile feedback.
hey have you ever reviewed the qubic system QS-BT1? could you do one? could it be combined with this or a buttkicker?
I have a single buttkicker, can I just add this to it and use a single buttkicker and the hf8?
I just got this, it would be great if I added an extra tush to the order...it's ridiculously uncomfortable.
FOR PS5: can you connect the controller to the pad and use your wireless headset that is plugged into the front of the PS5?