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Asetek Forte and VRS DirectForce Pro are two direct-drive wheel bases that promise a premium experience. Both have standard quick releases, come in at the same compatibility (PC only), and boast 18-20Nm of torque. On paper, it's a dead heat.
I've seen users struggle with calibration issues on both bases, but the Asetek Forte seems to be more finicky. Some owners report having to use only 18% of pedal force in the software to get decent braking performance. The La Prima wheel base is often criticized for being too stiff, and I can see why - users are reporting a steep learning curve. On top of that, dealing with warranty claims on these expensive bases is a nightmare. One user had to shell out nearly $100 in shipping costs just to repair their Forte's pedal. And don't even get me started on the customer support - it's as if they're expecting you to be an expert mechanic.
But wait, it gets worse. The VRS DirectForce Pro has its own set of issues. Users are reporting that the socket guards on the box are flimsy and prone to damage. And let me tell you, dealing with faulty FFB is a huge pain. I've seen users struggle with getting the cable plugged in correctly - it's almost as if they expect you to have a PhD in electronics just to get the thing working.
Now, I know some of you are thinking, "But what about durability?" Let me tell you, these bases are not built for the long haul. Users are reporting issues with overheating and broken quick releases - it's like they're designed to fail after a certain point. And don't even get me started on the build quality - it's as if they took every cheap part from Alibaba and slapped them together.
So, who gets my money? In my book, the VRS DirectForce Pro is the better choice for serious sim racers. It may not be perfect, but at least it's more affordable and has a slightly more user-friendly design. The Asetek Forte, on the other hand, is a premium price point with a subpar user experience. Unless you're willing to shell out an arm and a leg for a warranty claim or deal with the hassle of calibration issues, I'd say avoid it like the plague.
That being said, if you're in the market for a budget-friendly option that still delivers on performance, the VRS DirectForce Pro is your best bet. Just be warned - you may need to do some DIY tinkering to get everything working smoothly. And don't say I didn't warn you...