- 1,961
- Texas
- sandboxgod
This is the poll for CSR Elite Beta Testing. The GTP community has the awesome opportunity to vote for beta testers to represent us. Thomas (CEO Fanatec), has agreed to pick the Top 3 testers to beta test the beautiful CSR Elite wheel. In addition, after testing is completed, you will have the option to keep the wheel at a 50% discount. Lastly, we all will benefit from their experience when they to return the forum to post their impressions, thoughts, comparisons, and reviews!! 👍
Note: The poll allows multiple votes. Please limit your votes to 3 choices. If you go over we will have to pick going from top to bottom
Edit: If you go over 3 votes we cannot count your vote. Also, if you have registered recently this month then your vote will also not be counted.
Information about each candidate:
LogiForce
Background:
I want to add my background as well.
I am 25 years of age and live in The Netherlands.
I've been loving technology/computers as long as I can remember. Therefor my parents helped me into the IT direction since a very young age. I've grown up building my own PCs while playing all sorts of games. Starting from my first race game Hard Drivin on the Amiga 2000 I've grown up seeing the entire games industry grow up into a fine adult producing the very realistic games to date. And of course played most of them in the years.
I've gone through school learning my IT skills. Worked at my ISP's technical support where I supported all their services including experimental ones. After that I worked at a big necktie IT company which was too much business and too little tech for my liking.
Now due to some medical circumstances I am at home.
In all of my tech years I supported also an online game called Galaxis Online. I always did the alpha and beta testing for it as also for other project of the maker of that game. Also I help my friend in IT school to debug and test his programs from time to time. Which are either firmware or normal software.
I also did help in debugging the code for the above projects and write a bit of code here and there as a small time amateur in that department.
So testing actual hardware like the CSr Elite or CSW will actually be a new frontier for me. And something I will enjoy more since I can use my brain to look for errors which I like to do the most. Or so I found out about myself over the years.
I own the following hardware that I could test the wheel with:
Playstation 2 - Gran Turismo 4
Playstation 3 60GB (fat) - Gran Turismo 5, Shift 1, Burnout Paradise
xbox 360 120GB (fat) - Forza 4 (when I get it, but already have the demo)
Homebuild PC with the following hardware:
CPU: Intel i7 2600k
Cooler: Coolermaster Hyper Z600
Motherboard: MSI P67a-GD65
Memory: Corsair Vengeance 8GB 1866mhz kit
GPU: MSI N480GTX-m2d15 1.5GB (nVidia GTX480)
Soundcard: Soundblaster X-Fi Fatal1ty Titanium Championship Edition
PC Games:
C.A.R.S.
Race07
rFactor
Live For Speed
Shift 1 & 2
Blur
Burnout Paradise
Dirt 1, 2 & 3
Driver San Fransisco
F1 2010 & 2011
Fuel
Grid
NFS Hot Pursuit
NFS Undercover
STCC 2
Test Drive Unlimited 2
Toca Race Driver 3
All hooked up to a Philips 32PFL9604H/12 television (32" inch).
As a resume I would like to enter something Thomas approved of already: https://www.gtplanet.net/forum/showthread.php?t=228495
Now please vote me, if you'd like to see another review from my hands ^_^'
Of course I won't be sad if another guy wants to review the CSR Elite.
Additional reviews:
Mini Review: Microsoft Wireless Speed Wheel
Sonac
I am 23 years old, run Fanatec wheel fansite and it is probably fair to say that I spent way too much of my life sitting in front of a PC monitor. I owned a wheel since force feedback was introduced to gamers (Logitech Wingman formula force - I think this first Logitech FF wheel was actually belt driven), but I only became more serious about sim racing a few years a go, when I bought a Logitech G25 and installed rFactor. After that I bought most of hardcore simulations (iRacing, Netkar Pro, rFactor...) on the PC and some on consoles (GT5 on PS3; Dirt 3, Forza 3, Forza 4 on X360). I did not put hundreds of hours in any of them separately, but I very much enjoy racing in all of them, comparing them and observing how the wheel behaves in each one. I am somebody who enjoys sim racing and trying all the games and hardware a lot, but for now I do not take part in any racing series.
In the past I made video reviews of Fanatec’s GT3 RS, GT2 and Clubsport pedals, Logitech’s G27, SR Hardware SLI-M mounting system for Fanatec wheels and of the Speedmaster V2.0 cockpit. Besides that I posted a video that shows how to open Fanatec wheels and for the Speedmaster cockpit I also wrote a text based review. That is what I would do for the CSR Elite, if I got the opportunity. I would make a video and a written review.
I realized that video reviews are great to give the viewer a good idea about how the product looks from all angles and present it in a way that you never could in a written review, but written review is very important to describe certain aspects of the product in more detail. That way someone, who is interested in buying, can take a bit more of his time and read absolutely everything that comes to reviewer’s mind during testing.
I think I am good at spotting problems for the testing part and I would try to make the review better than all my previous ones. I can also take good photos for the written review and try to keep my video image quality for the video review high.
I could test it on all the platforms with a variety of titles and compare it to previous Fanatec wheels and to a G25 (G27 was borrowed just for the review, so I do not have it). It is a shame that I do not have the Thrustmaster T500 RS, which seems to be a great wheel to compare to the CSR Elite.
Videos:
AGP5000
I call it like I see it. Very honest, and willing to help out others with issues to the best of MY abilities. Whether it be troubleshooting, USA order issues, or in game driving assists regarding Fanatec.
I have all 3 platforms to base a review off of. GT5(PS3), FM4(360), iRacing(PC). I would plan on doing both a written and video based review utilizing all 3 platforms in the video, to demonstrate the wheels pros and cons for each system/game. I would take about 4-7 days to get a true understanding and feel for the wheel before I would release my review.
It would not be legitimate in my eyes to open the box, plug it in, then 2 hours later make a review and call it a done deal. I would try to base it more like Sonac(He is the reason why I purchased my GT2 in the first place, and rightfully should have a spot in this hands down without needing a vote) That is what a review SHOULD be like to be complete and thorough.
Also, being an avid Nascar/oval racer/fan, I can give more the US an aspect of the wheel. I still enjoy road courses, but would like to integrate a small 1-2 minute aspect of Nascar/ovals into it for the niche on here that enjoy it as much as I.
So, good luck to all others(not Sonac, Thomas, all of us agree he NEEDS one to review) May the best man/mate get the opportunity. I already have a TM 458 italia(xbox360/PC) on order(should have it by 11/1-11/5ish, released 10/31 according to amazon) to review for this site and Sonac's as well.
mikemav
Okay, I'll ask my name be put on the list for consideration as well. I don't post a ton here as lately I've been playing more on the PC (I'm a C.A.R.S tester/member now, and big fan of rFactor as well), or playing the surprisingly good Forza 4 with my GT2. Though I suspect GT5 will get a lot of time again soon (when the DLC is finally released here in the States...)
I've purchased all the previous Fanatec wheels except for the CSR. I also used to have a G25 and Momo wheel prior to this, and still have the basic Microsoft official FFB wheel as well. I applied on Thomas' blog as well, but had my eyes on the CSW when it comes out personally, though my affinity for the FFB of Forza would lead me to want to test the CSR Elite as well. Maybe that will be my sweet spot and I'll finally settle on one.
Anyway, I have a PS3, multiple 360s and Nvidia 3D Vision PC setup to test with. I prefer to make videos, though written reviews and posts are good too and I'd plan to do both ideally. You may have seen either my series of videos where I had an idea for a wheel similar what the GT2 became before it was available, so I hacked together a Turbo S and a GT3RS and explained a lot about how they were constructed in the process of showing my mod. I also made a video intro for my next project, a WIP of triple-screen 3D racing rig with real-life sized images using 3 cheap DLP projectors. My vids are on my YouTube channel here:
Together this series of videos I made have almost 50,000 views. Thanks to all who have checked them out.
Hope I get a chance to test out this next gen of products! Thanks for your consideration.
Anyway, I'd love to do something similar with the CSR Elite. Who knows, maybe if I ever get a CSW too I might try to make and document a similar "frankenwheel" combining the best of both (if it's even possible.)
amf7
Videos: http://m.youtube.com/profile?gl=GB&hl=en-GB&client=mv-vf-uk&user=mrflocktona
Name: Adam
Run a small website reviewing products for some of the manufacturers and I love all thinks sim racing.
I can test on PS3 and 360 and PC if required.. Even though I don't own a PC. I have all the latest driving games for PS3 and I will be buying forza 4 for 360 soon.
I play a lot and will do my best to find and describe all problems. I also have some experience reviewing hardware and software for an IT course I have completed.
I don't have any experience at beta testing but I don't think my review was too bad although some disagree and I respect that.
I have some experience reviewing products and I spend a lot if time gaming so if their are flaws I will find them. I am also very informative on this forum. Some people may dislike me but they cannot argue that I'm a good potential candidate for thus role.
I also have the 2nd highest post count in this thread and I have only been a member since July. This shows I am cimmited to this and fanatec. I also have some experience reviewing wheels hence the site and I have tried every single wheel on the market. I also spend a lot of time gaming so if their is a flaw I will find it. My grammar isn't bad although I am using a phone at this moment in time so I don't expect it to be great.
These are my vids for the Csr whilst I had it...
And of course I have my written review of the fanatec Csr
I will also be able to compare to the CSR as the experience is still fresh and its in my garage. The fact that its in my garage Thomas means I already have the elite pedals to save on your shipping LOL
Caz
A little history on why I think I would make a fair beta tester seems like a proper place to start. I am a self proclaimed gear junky, by which I mean when I get into a hobby I tend to obsess over new gear, how it works and where I can improve on it. I try to learn as much as I can about whatever products are out there, and keep up with the current trends.
When I was 20 I got into paintball with a couple friends, by the end of the first summer I earned a spot on a national team and was interning at a store to cover my end of sponsorship arrangements. Very quickly this turned into a ten year career in which I continued to play then manage and eventually own a team until the league we were in folded. I spent my time scouring the internet about new gear, looking up patents and animations on how different pieces of equipment worked. I became a certified tech for a couple of companies and was involved in beta testing and writing a trouble shooting and tuning website for one of them. During my time working on guns I was always looking for ways to improve my equipment. Some of my modifications made it as features on future models, from airflow improvements, goggle shapes to ergonomic design of a trigger frame.
I like to mess with things 
Ok, enough of what I have done and onto what I can bring (and not bring) to the table here. I am fortunate enough to have a night shift one night a week where I can bring my video games to work with me and get in a good 5-6 hours of testing over the course of the 8 hour shift. I have access to a few different wheels to test against. Although the only one that would be really worth its testing that I could easily access would be my own gt2. It really wouldn’t be very subjective to set the csr:e loose against the 911 carrera and DFGT, but I would do a short test for those interested. I would also be willing to trade my gt2/csp for a tm500 for a couple of days with a local to me member here so I could give it a fair shake.
As I said earlier, I love to see how things work.
As a reviewer, I am not very experienced, but feel I could contribute a very clinical but enjoying to read review. Over the past couple of months I have been doing a lot of statement writing for my father, and my writing style has been getting more and more clinical. But I am a fun loving guy who jokes around a lot, so it should make for a very entertaining read. Photographs to highlight the main points of the review are a must in my opinion, but should not be overdone as to take away from the written word. I also feel a review is worth the wait time if it is thorough in testing.
As a sim racer I am rather new. I just got back into racing games with the release of gt5 after a hiatus since gt2, but I put a lot of seat time in since I have been back into the genre.
Positives I could bring
--Experience in beta testing
--high level of interest in products
--12-15 hours a week + testing time
-- experience in product development
--dedication to the research at hand
-- a very structured testing regime across the comparison product
-- I am not motivated by the discount being offered, with Christmas coming up my funds would be to limited
As with any good write up, there is always some negatives. So here is some in my direction.
--Limited sim experience
--Only have a ps3/gt5 to test on. Though, I am a gamefly member and would get a couple more recent games available. Would be able to get my hands on an xbox for a day or two but would be limited to its usage.
--I have limited experience in writing reviews
--no access to video, or rather, anything of decent quality
-- limited exposure outside of gtp
So, that’s me and why I would like to be in on this great offer from Thomas.
redmalloc
As a mature adult with a background in mechanical engineering and industrial testing I feel I have an adequate background to be a beta tester. Although I have never written a sim racing gear review I have written lab reports, program documentation and grant proposals that have been well received. I can write real gud if need be. I don't get bored easily.
I have the GT3rs v2 and DFGT to compare the wheel with. My setup is a Obutto cockpit + 100" projection screen + serious home-built speaker system (Manger http://www.manger-msw.com/). As far as production and documentation go, I have a HD video camera, Manfrotto tripod and Nikon D700.
As far as platforms go I can test on the PC and PS3 in iRacing, Dirt3 and GT5 since there are my current focus. If needed I can also do testing on Xbox FM4.
I've raced in a GT5 league for most of the year and have been competitive at time with some great drivers. I focus on clean driving over wins and I'll take good physics over flash any day.
I do not get involved in board dramas and have no need for approval that isn't deserved though good work and good deeds. However contrary opinions are not something I am shy about and having no trouble considering the merits of other arguments.
Thank you for your consideration.
12thgear
At number 1, I'd like to nominate myself. I like to think that I offer clear, detailed opinions and contribute what I can here. I'm technically savvy and I think I can do a good job distinguishing differences in technologies used in various products. I've owned several wheels over the years, with extensive experience using the Logitech Driving Force Pro, Logitech G25, Fanatec PWTS, Fanatec GT2, Fanatec ClubSport Pedals, and some experience using the Fanatec PWC.
I have an older spec, but still very capable Windows 7 64-bit PC (Core 2 Quad 3.2GHz, GTX 560ti, 8GB RAM) with the following titles: Dirt 2, NFS Shift 1 & 2, F1 2011, R-Factor, GTR 2, Race 07, Richard Burns Rally, and RSRBR 2011.
I own both an Xbox 360 and PS3 with the following titles: Forza 3 & 4, PGR 3 & 4, GT5 Prologue, and GT5. I also own Burnout Revenge and Burnout Paradise, but those aren't well-suited to wheels.
Finally, I have a sturdy tripod, a 720p camera, and video editing software.
My most recent example is a casual writeup about the PWT.
As an example of the detail I'm willing to go into when trying to appear more professional, here's something from way back in 2005. Racing software and hardware has advanced so far since then, so it's fun to see how quaint some of my impressions are now, but still, I think it's a worthwhile example of my writing: http://www.epinions.com/review/pr-Gr...t_176030846596
CrispyChicken49
I own the following games for the Following systems.
Playstation-GT1, GT2
Playstation 2-GT3, GT4, NFSU, NFSU2, NFSMW
Playstation 3-GT5, NFSPS, NFSUC, Shift, Shift 2, F1 CE, F1 2011, and any other game as I have a game rental store near my house.
Xbox 360-FM2, FM3, FM4, Shift 2, NFS PS
PC-rFactor, GTR2, iRacing (soon)
Reviews-GT3 RS CSE Review Approved by Thomas and FM4 vs. GT5 SpecII Review
A little about me. I have recently just gone into Sim Racing. Unlike many other hobbies, it's something that could benifit in real life, and stay with you until you die. I also used to review a lot of things, mostly games, new consoles, things like that. I've even started reviewing car's themselves on games like Gran Turismo 5, and soon on Forza Motorsport 4. Therefore I have some experience on the matter of reviewing.
Unfortunately I've never actually been chosen to Beta test anything before. I'd love to get the chance to test another product to add to my list of reviews. Either way I will buy this wheel eventually. Whether when it's released, a year later, or more. I'd just really love it if I were chosen, but I won't be depressed if someone else get's chosen.
sandboxgod
My T500RS Review: https://www.gtplanet.net/forum/showthread.php?p=6089134#post6089134
First Impressions: T500RS Brakes vs Clubsport Brakes
Games: C.A.R.S., rFactor, iRacing, GT5, Forza, Dirt 3, Shift 2 Unleashed
Wheels / pedals: T500RS + Clubsport Brakes
Platforms: Xbox, PS3, PC
I've been a member of these forums for quite awhile. Normally, I try to post new information about new wheels and equipment as I discover them. I haven't beta tested a steering wheel before however I have beta tested a lot of games. As demonstrated in my T500RS review, I can write up nice
descriptive reviews. I look forward to testing the CSR Elite Wheel and comparing it to the T500RS. Additionally, I am eager to provide feedback to Fanatec so they can discover unknown issues. Lastly, I think I bring the fresh perspective of a gamer that loves playing sims on all platforms
Paskowitz
Quick breakdown of what I would bring to the table
- When the G25, DFGT, and DFP came out I wrote a very comprehensive review comparing each. I have wanted to beta test for Fanatec ever since. I currently own a G25. (still looking for the link... its pretty old)
- I hope to write a review that not only keeps my perspective in mind, but the perspective of any person interested in a wheel.
- This is also a beta test so a full log of my experience and any problems or delights I should encounter will be listed
- I enjoy making and editing videos in my spare time. So far I have two videos with over 100k views on my youtube channel. I believe the quality and composition of these videos speak for themselves. If selected I would compose a quality video along with the written portion of my review.
- I have to be honest and say this is thin at best, but I have some contacts over at the PlaystationLifestyle website and I would love to produce some unique content for that site for Fanatec (pending their interest).
- Overall my goal is not only to write an honest analysis of the product(s) but to increase exposure for Fanatec. I want to see sim racing grow. This beta test is a great opportunity to do that.
- If needed, the entire article could be written in German (the video would have to be in English).
- I own a PS3 with GT5. I have a Dell SXPS1647 laptop which I use to play GTR2+GTLegends (install size 80gb+), rFactor (install 50gb+), LFS, RBR, DiRT3 and F12011. I have an iRacing account, but it is on hold due to financial priorities. I have not purchased a membership for C.A.R.S. but it is on my to do list. I have other sims but these are the ones I play the most.
- On that note, for full disclosure, my wish to beta test is partly due to financials, I wish it wasn't but that is my reality. Even though this affects my desire to beta test, I would leave this personal issue out of my review.
- My 360 red ringed this month, however, I do have access to a 360 and FM4. So this would not inhibit my ability to deliver a full review of the wheel.
- I have a sim rig. I built it with my father and subsequently it holds a little extra sentimental value.
- I have driven a variety of vehicles including a Ford GT, BMW M3, all the way down to shifter karts. I am not an expert, but I know how a car should feel.
- While I am most active on GTPlanet, I also hold active accounts on the Official US Playstation Forums, NoGripRacing and NeoGAF.
- I am/was a member of the Playstation Gamers Advisory Panel which was responsible for beta testing Sony titles before Playstation+ arrived. So I actually have credible beta testing experience.
- Lastly, if Thomas's memory is good enough, he will get this joke. Since the CSRE wheel is not longer Porsche branded, I can review it without bias. I know this troubled you before, but now you can breath a sigh of relief.
Personal Information:
- 20 years old
- College Student at Drexel University in Philadelphia PA studying entrepreneurship and finance
- Currently living in NY on vacation (read: job hunting)
Note: The poll allows multiple votes. Please limit your votes to 3 choices. If you go over we will have to pick going from top to bottom
Edit: If you go over 3 votes we cannot count your vote. Also, if you have registered recently this month then your vote will also not be counted.
Information about each candidate:
LogiForce
Background:
I want to add my background as well.
I am 25 years of age and live in The Netherlands.
I've been loving technology/computers as long as I can remember. Therefor my parents helped me into the IT direction since a very young age. I've grown up building my own PCs while playing all sorts of games. Starting from my first race game Hard Drivin on the Amiga 2000 I've grown up seeing the entire games industry grow up into a fine adult producing the very realistic games to date. And of course played most of them in the years.
I've gone through school learning my IT skills. Worked at my ISP's technical support where I supported all their services including experimental ones. After that I worked at a big necktie IT company which was too much business and too little tech for my liking.
Now due to some medical circumstances I am at home.
In all of my tech years I supported also an online game called Galaxis Online. I always did the alpha and beta testing for it as also for other project of the maker of that game. Also I help my friend in IT school to debug and test his programs from time to time. Which are either firmware or normal software.
I also did help in debugging the code for the above projects and write a bit of code here and there as a small time amateur in that department.
So testing actual hardware like the CSr Elite or CSW will actually be a new frontier for me. And something I will enjoy more since I can use my brain to look for errors which I like to do the most. Or so I found out about myself over the years.
I own the following hardware that I could test the wheel with:
Playstation 2 - Gran Turismo 4
Playstation 3 60GB (fat) - Gran Turismo 5, Shift 1, Burnout Paradise
xbox 360 120GB (fat) - Forza 4 (when I get it, but already have the demo)
Homebuild PC with the following hardware:
CPU: Intel i7 2600k
Cooler: Coolermaster Hyper Z600
Motherboard: MSI P67a-GD65
Memory: Corsair Vengeance 8GB 1866mhz kit
GPU: MSI N480GTX-m2d15 1.5GB (nVidia GTX480)
Soundcard: Soundblaster X-Fi Fatal1ty Titanium Championship Edition
PC Games:
C.A.R.S.
Race07
rFactor
Live For Speed
Shift 1 & 2
Blur
Burnout Paradise
Dirt 1, 2 & 3
Driver San Fransisco
F1 2010 & 2011
Fuel
Grid
NFS Hot Pursuit
NFS Undercover
STCC 2
Test Drive Unlimited 2
Toca Race Driver 3
All hooked up to a Philips 32PFL9604H/12 television (32" inch).
As a resume I would like to enter something Thomas approved of already: https://www.gtplanet.net/forum/showthread.php?t=228495
Now please vote me, if you'd like to see another review from my hands ^_^'
Of course I won't be sad if another guy wants to review the CSR Elite.
Additional reviews:
Mini Review: Microsoft Wireless Speed Wheel
Sonac
I am 23 years old, run Fanatec wheel fansite and it is probably fair to say that I spent way too much of my life sitting in front of a PC monitor. I owned a wheel since force feedback was introduced to gamers (Logitech Wingman formula force - I think this first Logitech FF wheel was actually belt driven), but I only became more serious about sim racing a few years a go, when I bought a Logitech G25 and installed rFactor. After that I bought most of hardcore simulations (iRacing, Netkar Pro, rFactor...) on the PC and some on consoles (GT5 on PS3; Dirt 3, Forza 3, Forza 4 on X360). I did not put hundreds of hours in any of them separately, but I very much enjoy racing in all of them, comparing them and observing how the wheel behaves in each one. I am somebody who enjoys sim racing and trying all the games and hardware a lot, but for now I do not take part in any racing series.
In the past I made video reviews of Fanatec’s GT3 RS, GT2 and Clubsport pedals, Logitech’s G27, SR Hardware SLI-M mounting system for Fanatec wheels and of the Speedmaster V2.0 cockpit. Besides that I posted a video that shows how to open Fanatec wheels and for the Speedmaster cockpit I also wrote a text based review. That is what I would do for the CSR Elite, if I got the opportunity. I would make a video and a written review.
I realized that video reviews are great to give the viewer a good idea about how the product looks from all angles and present it in a way that you never could in a written review, but written review is very important to describe certain aspects of the product in more detail. That way someone, who is interested in buying, can take a bit more of his time and read absolutely everything that comes to reviewer’s mind during testing.
I think I am good at spotting problems for the testing part and I would try to make the review better than all my previous ones. I can also take good photos for the written review and try to keep my video image quality for the video review high.
I could test it on all the platforms with a variety of titles and compare it to previous Fanatec wheels and to a G25 (G27 was borrowed just for the review, so I do not have it). It is a shame that I do not have the Thrustmaster T500 RS, which seems to be a great wheel to compare to the CSR Elite.
Videos:
AGP5000
I call it like I see it. Very honest, and willing to help out others with issues to the best of MY abilities. Whether it be troubleshooting, USA order issues, or in game driving assists regarding Fanatec.
I have all 3 platforms to base a review off of. GT5(PS3), FM4(360), iRacing(PC). I would plan on doing both a written and video based review utilizing all 3 platforms in the video, to demonstrate the wheels pros and cons for each system/game. I would take about 4-7 days to get a true understanding and feel for the wheel before I would release my review.
It would not be legitimate in my eyes to open the box, plug it in, then 2 hours later make a review and call it a done deal. I would try to base it more like Sonac(He is the reason why I purchased my GT2 in the first place, and rightfully should have a spot in this hands down without needing a vote) That is what a review SHOULD be like to be complete and thorough.
Also, being an avid Nascar/oval racer/fan, I can give more the US an aspect of the wheel. I still enjoy road courses, but would like to integrate a small 1-2 minute aspect of Nascar/ovals into it for the niche on here that enjoy it as much as I.
So, good luck to all others(not Sonac, Thomas, all of us agree he NEEDS one to review) May the best man/mate get the opportunity. I already have a TM 458 italia(xbox360/PC) on order(should have it by 11/1-11/5ish, released 10/31 according to amazon) to review for this site and Sonac's as well.
mikemav
Okay, I'll ask my name be put on the list for consideration as well. I don't post a ton here as lately I've been playing more on the PC (I'm a C.A.R.S tester/member now, and big fan of rFactor as well), or playing the surprisingly good Forza 4 with my GT2. Though I suspect GT5 will get a lot of time again soon (when the DLC is finally released here in the States...)
I've purchased all the previous Fanatec wheels except for the CSR. I also used to have a G25 and Momo wheel prior to this, and still have the basic Microsoft official FFB wheel as well. I applied on Thomas' blog as well, but had my eyes on the CSW when it comes out personally, though my affinity for the FFB of Forza would lead me to want to test the CSR Elite as well. Maybe that will be my sweet spot and I'll finally settle on one.
Anyway, I have a PS3, multiple 360s and Nvidia 3D Vision PC setup to test with. I prefer to make videos, though written reviews and posts are good too and I'd plan to do both ideally. You may have seen either my series of videos where I had an idea for a wheel similar what the GT2 became before it was available, so I hacked together a Turbo S and a GT3RS and explained a lot about how they were constructed in the process of showing my mod. I also made a video intro for my next project, a WIP of triple-screen 3D racing rig with real-life sized images using 3 cheap DLP projectors. My vids are on my YouTube channel here:
Together this series of videos I made have almost 50,000 views. Thanks to all who have checked them out.
Hope I get a chance to test out this next gen of products! Thanks for your consideration.
Anyway, I'd love to do something similar with the CSR Elite. Who knows, maybe if I ever get a CSW too I might try to make and document a similar "frankenwheel" combining the best of both (if it's even possible.)
amf7
Videos: http://m.youtube.com/profile?gl=GB&hl=en-GB&client=mv-vf-uk&user=mrflocktona
Name: Adam
Run a small website reviewing products for some of the manufacturers and I love all thinks sim racing.
I can test on PS3 and 360 and PC if required.. Even though I don't own a PC. I have all the latest driving games for PS3 and I will be buying forza 4 for 360 soon.
I play a lot and will do my best to find and describe all problems. I also have some experience reviewing hardware and software for an IT course I have completed.
I don't have any experience at beta testing but I don't think my review was too bad although some disagree and I respect that.
I have some experience reviewing products and I spend a lot if time gaming so if their are flaws I will find them. I am also very informative on this forum. Some people may dislike me but they cannot argue that I'm a good potential candidate for thus role.
I also have the 2nd highest post count in this thread and I have only been a member since July. This shows I am cimmited to this and fanatec. I also have some experience reviewing wheels hence the site and I have tried every single wheel on the market. I also spend a lot of time gaming so if their is a flaw I will find it. My grammar isn't bad although I am using a phone at this moment in time so I don't expect it to be great.
These are my vids for the Csr whilst I had it...
And of course I have my written review of the fanatec Csr
I will also be able to compare to the CSR as the experience is still fresh and its in my garage. The fact that its in my garage Thomas means I already have the elite pedals to save on your shipping LOL
Caz
A little history on why I think I would make a fair beta tester seems like a proper place to start. I am a self proclaimed gear junky, by which I mean when I get into a hobby I tend to obsess over new gear, how it works and where I can improve on it. I try to learn as much as I can about whatever products are out there, and keep up with the current trends.
When I was 20 I got into paintball with a couple friends, by the end of the first summer I earned a spot on a national team and was interning at a store to cover my end of sponsorship arrangements. Very quickly this turned into a ten year career in which I continued to play then manage and eventually own a team until the league we were in folded. I spent my time scouring the internet about new gear, looking up patents and animations on how different pieces of equipment worked. I became a certified tech for a couple of companies and was involved in beta testing and writing a trouble shooting and tuning website for one of them. During my time working on guns I was always looking for ways to improve my equipment. Some of my modifications made it as features on future models, from airflow improvements, goggle shapes to ergonomic design of a trigger frame.
I like to mess with things 
Ok, enough of what I have done and onto what I can bring (and not bring) to the table here. I am fortunate enough to have a night shift one night a week where I can bring my video games to work with me and get in a good 5-6 hours of testing over the course of the 8 hour shift. I have access to a few different wheels to test against. Although the only one that would be really worth its testing that I could easily access would be my own gt2. It really wouldn’t be very subjective to set the csr:e loose against the 911 carrera and DFGT, but I would do a short test for those interested. I would also be willing to trade my gt2/csp for a tm500 for a couple of days with a local to me member here so I could give it a fair shake.
As I said earlier, I love to see how things work.
As a reviewer, I am not very experienced, but feel I could contribute a very clinical but enjoying to read review. Over the past couple of months I have been doing a lot of statement writing for my father, and my writing style has been getting more and more clinical. But I am a fun loving guy who jokes around a lot, so it should make for a very entertaining read. Photographs to highlight the main points of the review are a must in my opinion, but should not be overdone as to take away from the written word. I also feel a review is worth the wait time if it is thorough in testing.
As a sim racer I am rather new. I just got back into racing games with the release of gt5 after a hiatus since gt2, but I put a lot of seat time in since I have been back into the genre.
Positives I could bring
--Experience in beta testing
--high level of interest in products
--12-15 hours a week + testing time
-- experience in product development
--dedication to the research at hand
-- a very structured testing regime across the comparison product
-- I am not motivated by the discount being offered, with Christmas coming up my funds would be to limited
As with any good write up, there is always some negatives. So here is some in my direction.
--Limited sim experience
--Only have a ps3/gt5 to test on. Though, I am a gamefly member and would get a couple more recent games available. Would be able to get my hands on an xbox for a day or two but would be limited to its usage.
--I have limited experience in writing reviews
--no access to video, or rather, anything of decent quality
-- limited exposure outside of gtp
So, that’s me and why I would like to be in on this great offer from Thomas.
redmalloc
As a mature adult with a background in mechanical engineering and industrial testing I feel I have an adequate background to be a beta tester. Although I have never written a sim racing gear review I have written lab reports, program documentation and grant proposals that have been well received. I can write real gud if need be. I don't get bored easily.
I have the GT3rs v2 and DFGT to compare the wheel with. My setup is a Obutto cockpit + 100" projection screen + serious home-built speaker system (Manger http://www.manger-msw.com/). As far as production and documentation go, I have a HD video camera, Manfrotto tripod and Nikon D700.
As far as platforms go I can test on the PC and PS3 in iRacing, Dirt3 and GT5 since there are my current focus. If needed I can also do testing on Xbox FM4.
I've raced in a GT5 league for most of the year and have been competitive at time with some great drivers. I focus on clean driving over wins and I'll take good physics over flash any day.
I do not get involved in board dramas and have no need for approval that isn't deserved though good work and good deeds. However contrary opinions are not something I am shy about and having no trouble considering the merits of other arguments.
Thank you for your consideration.
12thgear
At number 1, I'd like to nominate myself. I like to think that I offer clear, detailed opinions and contribute what I can here. I'm technically savvy and I think I can do a good job distinguishing differences in technologies used in various products. I've owned several wheels over the years, with extensive experience using the Logitech Driving Force Pro, Logitech G25, Fanatec PWTS, Fanatec GT2, Fanatec ClubSport Pedals, and some experience using the Fanatec PWC.
I have an older spec, but still very capable Windows 7 64-bit PC (Core 2 Quad 3.2GHz, GTX 560ti, 8GB RAM) with the following titles: Dirt 2, NFS Shift 1 & 2, F1 2011, R-Factor, GTR 2, Race 07, Richard Burns Rally, and RSRBR 2011.
I own both an Xbox 360 and PS3 with the following titles: Forza 3 & 4, PGR 3 & 4, GT5 Prologue, and GT5. I also own Burnout Revenge and Burnout Paradise, but those aren't well-suited to wheels.
Finally, I have a sturdy tripod, a 720p camera, and video editing software.
My most recent example is a casual writeup about the PWT.
As an example of the detail I'm willing to go into when trying to appear more professional, here's something from way back in 2005. Racing software and hardware has advanced so far since then, so it's fun to see how quaint some of my impressions are now, but still, I think it's a worthwhile example of my writing: http://www.epinions.com/review/pr-Gr...t_176030846596
CrispyChicken49
I own the following games for the Following systems.
Playstation-GT1, GT2
Playstation 2-GT3, GT4, NFSU, NFSU2, NFSMW
Playstation 3-GT5, NFSPS, NFSUC, Shift, Shift 2, F1 CE, F1 2011, and any other game as I have a game rental store near my house.
Xbox 360-FM2, FM3, FM4, Shift 2, NFS PS
PC-rFactor, GTR2, iRacing (soon)
Reviews-GT3 RS CSE Review Approved by Thomas and FM4 vs. GT5 SpecII Review
A little about me. I have recently just gone into Sim Racing. Unlike many other hobbies, it's something that could benifit in real life, and stay with you until you die. I also used to review a lot of things, mostly games, new consoles, things like that. I've even started reviewing car's themselves on games like Gran Turismo 5, and soon on Forza Motorsport 4. Therefore I have some experience on the matter of reviewing.
Unfortunately I've never actually been chosen to Beta test anything before. I'd love to get the chance to test another product to add to my list of reviews. Either way I will buy this wheel eventually. Whether when it's released, a year later, or more. I'd just really love it if I were chosen, but I won't be depressed if someone else get's chosen.
sandboxgod
My T500RS Review: https://www.gtplanet.net/forum/showthread.php?p=6089134#post6089134
First Impressions: T500RS Brakes vs Clubsport Brakes
Games: C.A.R.S., rFactor, iRacing, GT5, Forza, Dirt 3, Shift 2 Unleashed
Wheels / pedals: T500RS + Clubsport Brakes
Platforms: Xbox, PS3, PC
I've been a member of these forums for quite awhile. Normally, I try to post new information about new wheels and equipment as I discover them. I haven't beta tested a steering wheel before however I have beta tested a lot of games. As demonstrated in my T500RS review, I can write up nice
descriptive reviews. I look forward to testing the CSR Elite Wheel and comparing it to the T500RS. Additionally, I am eager to provide feedback to Fanatec so they can discover unknown issues. Lastly, I think I bring the fresh perspective of a gamer that loves playing sims on all platforms
Paskowitz
Quick breakdown of what I would bring to the table
- When the G25, DFGT, and DFP came out I wrote a very comprehensive review comparing each. I have wanted to beta test for Fanatec ever since. I currently own a G25. (still looking for the link... its pretty old)
- I hope to write a review that not only keeps my perspective in mind, but the perspective of any person interested in a wheel.
- This is also a beta test so a full log of my experience and any problems or delights I should encounter will be listed
- I enjoy making and editing videos in my spare time. So far I have two videos with over 100k views on my youtube channel. I believe the quality and composition of these videos speak for themselves. If selected I would compose a quality video along with the written portion of my review.
- I have to be honest and say this is thin at best, but I have some contacts over at the PlaystationLifestyle website and I would love to produce some unique content for that site for Fanatec (pending their interest).
- Overall my goal is not only to write an honest analysis of the product(s) but to increase exposure for Fanatec. I want to see sim racing grow. This beta test is a great opportunity to do that.
- If needed, the entire article could be written in German (the video would have to be in English).
- I own a PS3 with GT5. I have a Dell SXPS1647 laptop which I use to play GTR2+GTLegends (install size 80gb+), rFactor (install 50gb+), LFS, RBR, DiRT3 and F12011. I have an iRacing account, but it is on hold due to financial priorities. I have not purchased a membership for C.A.R.S. but it is on my to do list. I have other sims but these are the ones I play the most.
- On that note, for full disclosure, my wish to beta test is partly due to financials, I wish it wasn't but that is my reality. Even though this affects my desire to beta test, I would leave this personal issue out of my review.
- My 360 red ringed this month, however, I do have access to a 360 and FM4. So this would not inhibit my ability to deliver a full review of the wheel.
- I have a sim rig. I built it with my father and subsequently it holds a little extra sentimental value.
- I have driven a variety of vehicles including a Ford GT, BMW M3, all the way down to shifter karts. I am not an expert, but I know how a car should feel.
- While I am most active on GTPlanet, I also hold active accounts on the Official US Playstation Forums, NoGripRacing and NeoGAF.
- I am/was a member of the Playstation Gamers Advisory Panel which was responsible for beta testing Sony titles before Playstation+ arrived. So I actually have credible beta testing experience.
- Lastly, if Thomas's memory is good enough, he will get this joke. Since the CSRE wheel is not longer Porsche branded, I can review it without bias. I know this troubled you before, but now you can breath a sigh of relief.
Personal Information:
- 20 years old
- College Student at Drexel University in Philadelphia PA studying entrepreneurship and finance
- Currently living in NY on vacation (read: job hunting)
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