Thrustmaster has unveiled its latest sim racing bundle, the T598, which brings new technology to the market with its Direct Axial Drive motor. This release is part of their effort to make high-quality sim racing equipment more affordable and efficient. The bundle includes a motor base, wheel rim, and pedal set, officially licensed for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, and it is also compatible with PC.
New Direct Axial Drive Technology
The main feature of the T598 is its new motor technology, called Direct Axial Drive. This is a big step forward in the world of racing wheels because it aims to deliver better performance at a lower cost. Unlike older Direct Drive motors, which can sometimes produce unwanted friction or “cogging” (a rough feeling when the magnets in the motor switch), the Direct Axial Drive motor in the T598 is much smoother. This smoothness comes from its lighter copper structure, which eliminates the need for extra software that is often used to fix the problems in older motors.
Smoother and Faster Performance
One of the standout features of the T598 is its very low delay (latency) in responding to game signals. The wheel can react to game inputs in just 5 milliseconds, which is much faster than other models in the same price range. This makes driving feel more responsive and precise.
The motor in the T598 can provide 5 Newton-meters (Nm) of constant torque, which means it can keep delivering the same level of power throughout long gaming sessions without losing performance. It also has an “overshoot” feature, which allows the motor to increase its power for short bursts. This helps make in-game effects, like collisions or bumps, feel much more realistic.
High-Detail Force Feedback and PlayStation Compatibility
The T598 was designed for gamers who want to experience every detail in their racing games. The Direct Axial Drive motor enhances the feel of physical effects, such as changes in road texture or tire grip, making them more noticeable. It also delivers strong vibrations for actions like shifting gears, adding to the immersive experience. Thrustmaster’s HARMONY technology further improves these effects, giving players a more detailed feel of the road.
For PlayStation users, the T598 offers seamless compatibility with over 100 games on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. The full bundle includes a T598 Servo Base, Sportcar Wheel Add-On, and Raceline Pedals LTE. With a price tag of $499.99 in the U.S., it delivers high-quality performance at an affordable cost.
Availability
The T598 will be released in different regions on the following dates:
- United States: October 19, 2024 (Best Buy exclusive)
- China: November 4, 2024
- Europe: November 29, 2024
- Rest of the world: End of 2024
Thrustmaster’s new T598 bundle provides a solid option for sim racers looking for smoother, more responsive equipment without breaking the bank.
