We have been waiting for this move for so long that we thought the German brand had forgotten it. But this SimRacing Expo 2023 was a good moment to raise again and complete and revive its long awaited ClubSport Series. Now with a Direct Drive focus and with console compatibility. Strong selling point which helps Fanatec to stay in the market as one of the main competitors.
This is big! ClubSport DD is an incredible achievement from the whole team. Class-leading performance and introducing FullForce: Force Feedback 2.0 for Direct Drive.
I think many readers of this blog will have expected the ClubSport DD, but perhaps not a PlayStation version as well. We wanted to offer two torque levels, with the PlayStation version being the more powerful option. Of course, 12 Nm is already very strong, and huge step above the CSL DD with Boost Kit and the previous ClubSport Wheel Base V2.5.
As always, our Xbox-licensed Steering Wheels are supported, so it is easy to achieve Xbox compatibility with both the ClubSport DD and ClubSport DD+ by attaching an Xbox wheel.
Now we have Direct Drive technology across CSL, ClubSport, and Podium Series. Choose your flavour: 5, 8, 12, 15, 20, or 25 Nm!
The ClubSport DD is available on the website for preorder starting today, with first deliveries in November.
Pricing:
ClubSport DD (12 Nm):
- EU: 699.95€
- US: $699.95
- Japan: ¥92,900
- Australia: $1229.95
This is also the first time we have developed a PlayStation-licensed ClubSport Wheel Base, the ClubSport DD+. This offers all the features of the regular ClubSport DD, adds PlayStation compatibility, and it has a higher torque figure of 15 Nm.
It will be available for preorder soon with the following pricing:
ClubSport DD+ (15 Nm):
- EU: 999.95€
- US: $999.95
- Japan: ¥133,600
- Australia: $1649.95
Why does the ClubSport DD feel so good?
FullForce: Force Feedback 2.0 for Direct Drive
FullForce is a new force feedback protocol tailored specifically for FANATEC® Direct Drive. Leveraging the instantaneous response and zero backlash of direct drive technology, FullForce generates high-frequency vibrations calculated at 16000Hz for a new level of immersive effects.
Feel the engine revs, and details of the road surface like never before. Only FullForce gives you the full experience of driving a race car. The effects are so fine that the DD can play music and works as a speaker if you like. This technology will also replace rumble motors in steering wheels as you can create much better effects.
At this point we do not plan to implement FullForce into the CSL DD, GT DD or Podium DD wheel bases due to technical reasons.
Best thermal performance in its class
Many mass-market direct drive systems fail to hold their claimed torque figures, gradually derating (reducing motor performance) over time to avoid overheating. The ClubSport DD’s efficient motor and thermally-optimised layout holds a genuine 12 Nm torque even in the most extreme conditions, for example running an endurance race at maximum force feedback settings.
12 Nm is a real 12 Nm and it remains 12 Nm lap after lap after lap.
Fastest slew rate in its class
Class-leading slew rate performance combined with the powerful processor makes every motor reaction incredibly fast and dynamic, while remaining perfectly stable. This behaviour lends itself to traditional force feedback signals as well as enhanced FullForce signals (in supported games).
It makes it easier to catch slides and it is so much more natural to drive. Your lap times will be more consistent.
Key features:
- Most advanced Direct Drive servo motor custom-designed in Germany specifically for sim racing.
12 Nm consistent torque. (CS DD+: 15 Nm) - FullForce technology for super low-latency detail effects.
- Most thermally stable wheel base in its class.
- New motor design for ultra smooth feeling.
- Highest slew rate (a measure of motor responsiveness) in its class.
- Designed for QR2 from the ground-up with an ultra strong axis. Suitable for commercial applications.
- There will be a QR1 adapter available later this year for full backwards compatibility.
- Designed for Windows PC, becomes Xbox compatible when used with an Xbox-licensed Steering Wheel.
- CS DD+ is compatible additionally to PS4 and PS5.
We have also introduced a new ClubSport DD Table Clamp (sold separately).
- Full metal clamp
- Adjustable angle
- Supports ClubSport DD, ClubSport DD+, CSL DD, Gran Turismo DD Pro Wheel Bases.
Disclaimer:
“The ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base is developed under the official licensing program for PlayStation® and will work with PlayStation®5 and PlayStation®4 subject to Sony Interactive Entertainment’s final product approval.”
If you decide to acquire this new Fanatec wheelbase, it is already in preorder and will be shipped by 7th November.
Happy Racing!
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