Darksaber
10-14-2007, 02:07 PM
[page=Introduction]
Introduction
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/complogo.gif
I would like to thank Fanatec/Endor (http://www.fanatec.de/) AG for supplying the review sample.
Fanatec is a brand name owned by Endor AG. The company has the subtitle "The Brainfactory". It was founded in 1998 and specializes in input devices for consoles like the Playstation and the PC. They recently announced a Prosche 911 Turbo wheel, which is an exact replica of the car's steering wheel. The general interest in the upcoming product has been great and maybe we will have the chance to take a look at it as well, once it is released. Today, we have the opportunity to take a look at the Fanatec Headshot Controller. This is a mouse & mouse pad combination with very unique features. Endor designs their products in Germany so you will not find any rebranded wares from Asia in their product line.
Fanatec Headshot Controller Features
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/productimage.jpg
The Headshot Controller is made of three parts, the mouse, called "Headshot", the mouse pad - called "aURa" and the software with the name "emul8or"
Headshot Controller
Ergonomic size adjustment to fit any hand comfortably.
Latest generation hi-grade precision laser sensor.
6 buttons plus 5-way scroll wheel.
PlasmaGlydeTM mouse feet.
Innovative design allows your fingers to rest comfortably on the mouse eliminating friction.
Up to 4,000 DPI (2,000 native) resolution; switchable during game play.
Lightweight, non-tangle cable.
Non-slip high-injection mold TPR rubber grip.
aURa Mouse Pad
Illuminated cable arch and mouse are separately adjustable; multi-color, brightness, and pulsing frequency.
Advanced gliding technology through the combination of the low-friction PlasmaGlydeTM mouse feet and aURaTM mouse pad.
Cable arch management system.
High-speed USB 2.0 hub.
emul8or Drivers
Joystick emulation-compatible with all racing games, flight simulators, etc...
Universal programming of mouse and all standard keyboard keys.
Macros executed with correct timing, allows for purchase scripts, grenade throw, communication, looping events, etc...
Double assignment of all keyboard keys with long-click or double click.
On-the-fly programming during game play.
Automatic creation of profiles for all software applications.
Auto-switching between profiles, depending on the active program.
Created with Germaneering.
[page=Packaging & Contents]
Packaging
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packfront_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packfront.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packrear_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packrear.jpg)
The Headshot Controller comes in a very interesting package. A clear, plastic suitcase can hold all the items. This does make transportation of the entire unit easy and should really stand out on a shelf among other items. The contents can clearly be seen in the front, while the back goes into great detail about the entire set.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/caseopen_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/caseopen.jpg)
Opening the case, you can see that the mouse and power supply are packed seperately and kept securely on place.
Contents
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/archinbox_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/archinbox.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/tinybag_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/tinybag.jpg)
The arch of the mouse pad, which is supposed to hold your cable and keep it out of the way, can be found on the top part of the case, while a small bag with anti-friction pads for the Headshot mouse is also inside the box.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/manualcd_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/manualcd.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/psu_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/psu.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/usbcable_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/usbcable.jpg)
A simple, but effective manual and a software CD give you everything necessary you need to get up and gaming. Fanatec also includes a small power supply, but it can be powered with the included USB 2.0 cable as well.
[page=A Closer Look - The Headshot]
A Closer Look - The Headshot
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousetop_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousetop.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseapart_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseapart.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousewithout_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousewithout.jpg)
The Headshot mouse is of refreshingly high quality. This is not only due to the high-injection mold, but also to the high quality plastics used. The feel of the mouse is even better than that of a Logitech MX Revolution or MX 1000. If the mouse is too large for you, there is the possiblity to remove the left side of the Headshot mouse, by taking off two screws. This reduces the overall dimension of the mouse and does work well, even though the clean, straight drop does feel a bit weird. If the inner part would have an ergonomical shape, it would have been even better.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseside_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseside.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousesidewithout_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousesidewithout.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouselight_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouselight.jpg)
The full mouse side looks very clean and really underlines the quality of the device. Once the removable part is taken off, you can clearly see the Fanatec logo on a semi-transparent straight, plastic surface. If you use the mouse without the left high-injection mold, you will be greeted by the inside LEDs. These would only be visible through the mouse wheel if the entire Headshot unit is used.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseunderside_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseunderside.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousebuttons_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousebuttons.jpg)
The underside of the mouse, is kept in a carbon look and there are two large screws. These are removable even with your finger nails or a coin. This should make it possible to change the feel of the mouse in any situation as you will always have a coin - or find someone who does - on any LAN party for example. There are two buttons below the wheel in addition to the usual ones. These are meant to change the DPI setting between 400 DPI and 3200 DPI on the fly. The lighting of the Headshot changes with the set DPI, but can be adjusted to show any of the available colors.
[page=A Closer Look - The aURa]
A Closer Look - The aURa
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/ready2go_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/ready2go.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padrear_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padrear.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padlabel_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padlabel.jpg)
The aURa mouse pad is a vital part of the mouse, as the arch can hold the cable of the Headshot. It is made of plastic with large rubber feet to keep the pad in place. The underside also mentions the name of the pad. The overall feel of the aURa is a positive one, but the plastic materials do not convey the same level of quality as the mouse.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/fanateclogo_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/fanateclogo.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padconnections_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padconnections.jpg)
The top left corner holds a backlit Fanatec logo, so everyone at a LAN party will be sure to know who created this spectacle of light and gaming pleasure. Behind the logo are the USB 2.0 connectors, a mini USB 2.0 connector and an AC plug. The latter is present and there is a power supply, but the entire unit including the mouse can easily be powered by the USB 2.0 port. You should use the power supply if you have a passive hub for example.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padlitdark_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padlitdark.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/litinthedark_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/litinthedark.jpg)
Once the pad is connected, the arch and the mouse itself light up right away. With a bit of tweaking with the software, which we will cover next, you can see the three base colors each light source can deliver. Each of these colors can be combined at each source to make for pink or orange lighting accents.
[page=Software & Performance]
Software
Installation & Update
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft01_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft01.jpg)
The CD simply holds a MSI (Microsoft Installer) file. There is no autostart, no interface or flash menu. I was a bit suprised at the lack of a simple interface which gives you access to an electronic manual or maybe direct access to the Fanatec website. Such a small interface would also help convey the message of quality, which is a big selling point of the Headshot Controller.
Setup Process:
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft02_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft02.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft03_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft03.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft04_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft04.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft05_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft05.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft06_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft06.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft07_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft07.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft08_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft08.jpg)
Automatic Update:
Once the software installation is completed, you are greeted with an automatic update client. This is a great little feature and you can also take a close look at the improvements of each version. Installing the update is identical to that of the emul8or software.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft10_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft10.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft11_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft11.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft12_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft12.jpg)
emul8or
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft14_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft14.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft15_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft15.jpg)
The software places a little "F" in your system tray, through which the software can be easily accessed. Upon double clicking it, I was surprised to find myself at the Mouse Properties window of the OS. Fanatec decided to add a Tab to this window instead of supplying their own software, which is certainly a good choice. The emul8or software gives you access to all the included features of the mouse, but still leaves the control of the generic features like double click speed among other things to the OS. The software is made up of three categories. The first is called "LED and Resolution" and does exactly that. You can set the color of each light source (left or right arch base and mouse) to either pulsate in the given color or show a solid one. You may even choose the speed of the pulse or the intensity of the light. Such customization of LEDs is unrivaled and you can create some sweet effects which will draw serious attention at a LAN party. You may also set the DPI and joystick sensitivity within this category.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft16_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft16.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft17_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/soft17.jpg)
The second category covers any programmable features of the Headshot mouse. You may even set intrusive keyboard commands like deleting items, so handle this section with care and Fanatec does sure to point this out during installation. You may also set the normal double speed or more unusual loop or parallel click speeds in this section. The last category covers profiles. These are text based configuration files, which you can create for seperate applications. That way you have quick access to specific settings for specific titles. Fanatec has taken a refreshing approach to the software side of pointing devices and has opted to refrain from using fancy graphics to keep the interface clean and functional.
[page=Performance & Conclusion]
Performance
Using the Headshot Mouse requires the gamer to get used to a few things. First off, the spring back effect of the mouse when it is hooked up to the arch of the aURa is nothing to be ignored. The mouse feels great and the weight of the unit is well balanced, but does feel a bit weird with the left high-injection mold removed. The DPI settings beyond 800 DPI are incredibly sensitive, especially on the aURa surface, but gaming is a real pleasure with this mouse and it is great to see that there are still manufacturers out there going for quality instead of rebranding no name mice or opting for lesser quality.
Focusing on the aURa pad, it can be described as smooth - very smooth. The mouse and any other pointing device tested on the surface simply fly across with very little force. Any normal gamer should be happy with the area of movement of the aURa but low sensitivity gamers will find themselves desperately looking for more area. I can also see high sensitivity gamers suddenly turning this setting down a bit as soon as their favorite mouse hits the aURa surface. Fanatec has created a very solid and well performing combination with the Headshot Controller.
Value and Conclusion
<table width="100%" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="result">
<tr><th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/dollar.gif</th>
<td>
The Fanatec Headshot Controller sells for $99.99 (http://www.fanatec.de/webshop/new_usa/index.php?osCsid=66aac0cac4f344704fa80c0725f77174) or 99.00€ (http://www.fanatec.de/webshop/new_eu/index.php?osCsid=8640a3f4c4153246e1a51f1de9ad8981) at the Fanatec online store. While this may look like alot, any high quality gaming mouse in combination with a high quality surface will set you back about the same amount.</td>
</tr><tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbup.gif</th>
<td>
Great build quality
Great feel and weight
Carrying suitcase included
Mouse works perfectly on included pad
Well built pad
USB 2.0 ports included
Awesome lighting effects possible
Mouse can be parted
Very solid software
Great customizations possible
Power supply included
Should look amazing at a LAN party
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbdown.gif</th>
<td>
Price is still more than you may want to spend
Complicated setup
Wheel could move a bit easier
Mouse surface a bit too smooth
Anything past 800 DPI is very sensitive
Spring cable is something you need to get used to
</td></tr>
<tr><th>9.2</th>
<td>Fanatec is trying to supply the complete package at a, believe it or not, reasonable price. The Headshot mouse is of very high quality and can be considered even better than those of large companies like Logitech or Microsoft. The Headshot Controller may be a bit more complicated to set up, the included suitcase should help during transportation. Endor the company behind the Fanatec Brand has done a great job, but may have gone a bit overboard with the lights and smoothness of the aURa. While the lighting does look great, imagine all three sources pulsating at a LAN party. It will surely get the attention of anyone close by and may even be a bit bothersome for someone in the middle of a fierce fire fight. The aURa surface is so smooth that you will find yourself playing at a lower sensitivity or DPI setting than ever before, but then does very well. The Headshot Controller is a worthy contender in the high-end gaming market.
</td></tr><tr><th></th><td>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/editorschoice.gif</td></tr>
</table>
Introduction
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/complogo.gif
I would like to thank Fanatec/Endor (http://www.fanatec.de/) AG for supplying the review sample.
Fanatec is a brand name owned by Endor AG. The company has the subtitle "The Brainfactory". It was founded in 1998 and specializes in input devices for consoles like the Playstation and the PC. They recently announced a Prosche 911 Turbo wheel, which is an exact replica of the car's steering wheel. The general interest in the upcoming product has been great and maybe we will have the chance to take a look at it as well, once it is released. Today, we have the opportunity to take a look at the Fanatec Headshot Controller. This is a mouse & mouse pad combination with very unique features. Endor designs their products in Germany so you will not find any rebranded wares from Asia in their product line.
Fanatec Headshot Controller Features
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/productimage.jpg
The Headshot Controller is made of three parts, the mouse, called "Headshot", the mouse pad - called "aURa" and the software with the name "emul8or"
Headshot Controller
Ergonomic size adjustment to fit any hand comfortably.
Latest generation hi-grade precision laser sensor.
6 buttons plus 5-way scroll wheel.
PlasmaGlydeTM mouse feet.
Innovative design allows your fingers to rest comfortably on the mouse eliminating friction.
Up to 4,000 DPI (2,000 native) resolution; switchable during game play.
Lightweight, non-tangle cable.
Non-slip high-injection mold TPR rubber grip.
aURa Mouse Pad
Illuminated cable arch and mouse are separately adjustable; multi-color, brightness, and pulsing frequency.
Advanced gliding technology through the combination of the low-friction PlasmaGlydeTM mouse feet and aURaTM mouse pad.
Cable arch management system.
High-speed USB 2.0 hub.
emul8or Drivers
Joystick emulation-compatible with all racing games, flight simulators, etc...
Universal programming of mouse and all standard keyboard keys.
Macros executed with correct timing, allows for purchase scripts, grenade throw, communication, looping events, etc...
Double assignment of all keyboard keys with long-click or double click.
On-the-fly programming during game play.
Automatic creation of profiles for all software applications.
Auto-switching between profiles, depending on the active program.
Created with Germaneering.
[page=Packaging & Contents]
Packaging
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packfront_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packfront.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packrear_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/packrear.jpg)
The Headshot Controller comes in a very interesting package. A clear, plastic suitcase can hold all the items. This does make transportation of the entire unit easy and should really stand out on a shelf among other items. The contents can clearly be seen in the front, while the back goes into great detail about the entire set.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/caseopen_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/caseopen.jpg)
Opening the case, you can see that the mouse and power supply are packed seperately and kept securely on place.
Contents
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/archinbox_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/archinbox.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/tinybag_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/tinybag.jpg)
The arch of the mouse pad, which is supposed to hold your cable and keep it out of the way, can be found on the top part of the case, while a small bag with anti-friction pads for the Headshot mouse is also inside the box.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/manualcd_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/manualcd.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/psu_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/psu.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/usbcable_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/usbcable.jpg)
A simple, but effective manual and a software CD give you everything necessary you need to get up and gaming. Fanatec also includes a small power supply, but it can be powered with the included USB 2.0 cable as well.
[page=A Closer Look - The Headshot]
A Closer Look - The Headshot
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousetop_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousetop.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseapart_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseapart.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousewithout_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousewithout.jpg)
The Headshot mouse is of refreshingly high quality. This is not only due to the high-injection mold, but also to the high quality plastics used. The feel of the mouse is even better than that of a Logitech MX Revolution or MX 1000. If the mouse is too large for you, there is the possiblity to remove the left side of the Headshot mouse, by taking off two screws. This reduces the overall dimension of the mouse and does work well, even though the clean, straight drop does feel a bit weird. If the inner part would have an ergonomical shape, it would have been even better.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseside_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseside.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousesidewithout_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousesidewithout.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouselight_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouselight.jpg)
The full mouse side looks very clean and really underlines the quality of the device. Once the removable part is taken off, you can clearly see the Fanatec logo on a semi-transparent straight, plastic surface. If you use the mouse without the left high-injection mold, you will be greeted by the inside LEDs. These would only be visible through the mouse wheel if the entire Headshot unit is used.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseunderside_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mouseunderside.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousebuttons_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/mousebuttons.jpg)
The underside of the mouse, is kept in a carbon look and there are two large screws. These are removable even with your finger nails or a coin. This should make it possible to change the feel of the mouse in any situation as you will always have a coin - or find someone who does - on any LAN party for example. There are two buttons below the wheel in addition to the usual ones. These are meant to change the DPI setting between 400 DPI and 3200 DPI on the fly. The lighting of the Headshot changes with the set DPI, but can be adjusted to show any of the available colors.
[page=A Closer Look - The aURa]
A Closer Look - The aURa
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/ready2go_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/ready2go.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padrear_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padrear.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padlabel_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padlabel.jpg)
The aURa mouse pad is a vital part of the mouse, as the arch can hold the cable of the Headshot. It is made of plastic with large rubber feet to keep the pad in place. The underside also mentions the name of the pad. The overall feel of the aURa is a positive one, but the plastic materials do not convey the same level of quality as the mouse.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/fanateclogo_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/fanateclogo.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padconnections_small.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Fanatec/Headshot_Controller/images/padconnections.jpg)
The top left corner holds a backlit Fanatec logo, so everyone at a LAN party will be sure to know who created this spectacle of light and gaming pleasure. Behind the logo are the USB 2.0 connectors, a mini USB 2.0 connector and an AC plug. The latter is present and there is a power supply, but the entire unit including the mouse can easily be powered by the USB 2.0 port. You should use the power supply if you have a passive hub for example.
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Once the pad is connected, the arch and the mouse itself light up right away. With a bit of tweaking with the software, which we will cover next, you can see the three base colors each light source can deliver. Each of these colors can be combined at each source to make for pink or orange lighting accents.
[page=Software & Performance]
Software
Installation & Update
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The CD simply holds a MSI (Microsoft Installer) file. There is no autostart, no interface or flash menu. I was a bit suprised at the lack of a simple interface which gives you access to an electronic manual or maybe direct access to the Fanatec website. Such a small interface would also help convey the message of quality, which is a big selling point of the Headshot Controller.
Setup Process:
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Automatic Update:
Once the software installation is completed, you are greeted with an automatic update client. This is a great little feature and you can also take a close look at the improvements of each version. Installing the update is identical to that of the emul8or software.
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emul8or
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The software places a little "F" in your system tray, through which the software can be easily accessed. Upon double clicking it, I was surprised to find myself at the Mouse Properties window of the OS. Fanatec decided to add a Tab to this window instead of supplying their own software, which is certainly a good choice. The emul8or software gives you access to all the included features of the mouse, but still leaves the control of the generic features like double click speed among other things to the OS. The software is made up of three categories. The first is called "LED and Resolution" and does exactly that. You can set the color of each light source (left or right arch base and mouse) to either pulsate in the given color or show a solid one. You may even choose the speed of the pulse or the intensity of the light. Such customization of LEDs is unrivaled and you can create some sweet effects which will draw serious attention at a LAN party. You may also set the DPI and joystick sensitivity within this category.
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The second category covers any programmable features of the Headshot mouse. You may even set intrusive keyboard commands like deleting items, so handle this section with care and Fanatec does sure to point this out during installation. You may also set the normal double speed or more unusual loop or parallel click speeds in this section. The last category covers profiles. These are text based configuration files, which you can create for seperate applications. That way you have quick access to specific settings for specific titles. Fanatec has taken a refreshing approach to the software side of pointing devices and has opted to refrain from using fancy graphics to keep the interface clean and functional.
[page=Performance & Conclusion]
Performance
Using the Headshot Mouse requires the gamer to get used to a few things. First off, the spring back effect of the mouse when it is hooked up to the arch of the aURa is nothing to be ignored. The mouse feels great and the weight of the unit is well balanced, but does feel a bit weird with the left high-injection mold removed. The DPI settings beyond 800 DPI are incredibly sensitive, especially on the aURa surface, but gaming is a real pleasure with this mouse and it is great to see that there are still manufacturers out there going for quality instead of rebranding no name mice or opting for lesser quality.
Focusing on the aURa pad, it can be described as smooth - very smooth. The mouse and any other pointing device tested on the surface simply fly across with very little force. Any normal gamer should be happy with the area of movement of the aURa but low sensitivity gamers will find themselves desperately looking for more area. I can also see high sensitivity gamers suddenly turning this setting down a bit as soon as their favorite mouse hits the aURa surface. Fanatec has created a very solid and well performing combination with the Headshot Controller.
Value and Conclusion
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The Fanatec Headshot Controller sells for $99.99 (http://www.fanatec.de/webshop/new_usa/index.php?osCsid=66aac0cac4f344704fa80c0725f77174) or 99.00€ (http://www.fanatec.de/webshop/new_eu/index.php?osCsid=8640a3f4c4153246e1a51f1de9ad8981) at the Fanatec online store. While this may look like alot, any high quality gaming mouse in combination with a high quality surface will set you back about the same amount.</td>
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<td>
Great build quality
Great feel and weight
Carrying suitcase included
Mouse works perfectly on included pad
Well built pad
USB 2.0 ports included
Awesome lighting effects possible
Mouse can be parted
Very solid software
Great customizations possible
Power supply included
Should look amazing at a LAN party
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Price is still more than you may want to spend
Complicated setup
Wheel could move a bit easier
Mouse surface a bit too smooth
Anything past 800 DPI is very sensitive
Spring cable is something you need to get used to
</td></tr>
<tr><th>9.2</th>
<td>Fanatec is trying to supply the complete package at a, believe it or not, reasonable price. The Headshot mouse is of very high quality and can be considered even better than those of large companies like Logitech or Microsoft. The Headshot Controller may be a bit more complicated to set up, the included suitcase should help during transportation. Endor the company behind the Fanatec Brand has done a great job, but may have gone a bit overboard with the lights and smoothness of the aURa. While the lighting does look great, imagine all three sources pulsating at a LAN party. It will surely get the attention of anyone close by and may even be a bit bothersome for someone in the middle of a fierce fire fight. The aURa surface is so smooth that you will find yourself playing at a lower sensitivity or DPI setting than ever before, but then does very well. The Headshot Controller is a worthy contender in the high-end gaming market.
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