VRX Mach 4: Hardest core consumer driving simulator ever?
by Gerry Block
November 20, 2007 - Today, Canadian manufacturer VRX Industries Ltd. unveiled the VRX Mach 4, a quad-display racing simulator the likes of which we've never seen among consumer products. The setup employs three 37-inch Sharp Aquos LCDs for a panoramic forward view and a 7-inch Power Acoustik LCD as a rear view mirror. Each display is powered by an Xbox 360, which means there are four churning away in the Mach 4.
The visual power of the Mach 4 seems matched only by the sensory immersion provided by a Bose Acoustimass 10 series surround sound system and sub for game music and effects, coupled with a 1500-Watt Tactile Vibration Feedback System and 1900-Watt Tactile Power Amplifier. There's even a pair of Honeywell fans housed in a chrome shroud to provide virtual wind.
The Mach 4 package also includes the full bracket and seating arrangement in the pictures. Polished aluminum mounting assemblies hold the three LCDs, racing chair, component shelves and speaker mounts together. Wheel and pedal mounts are composed of polished chrome. The seat itself is a real Sparco Monza racing bucket from Italy, which is mounted on front and rear aluminum vibration dampeners. There's also an integrated LED lighting effects system and a "beverage containment system."
At the moment, the system's flagship application is Forza Mororsport 2 for the Xbox 360 thanks to the game's support of multiple displays. Hardcore driving fans will no doubt be salivating at the prospect of a home arrangement that puts even the deluxe arcade version of Sega's Ferrari F355 Challenge to shame. Cost might be something of an issue, however, as the complete VRX Mach 4 system that includes absolutely everything in the pictures from the displays to the Xbox 360s is priced at $25,000. Peeps on a bit more of a budget could also consider picking up the base system, which does not include the displays. Compared to the full system, it's a much more reasonable buy of just $5,000.
Robert Stanners, the President of VRX, commented on the news: "Our goal is to eclipse the success of the VRX PRO (launched with the original Forza Motorsport). With the success of Forza Motorsport 2, we are confident to surpass all expectations. VRX is committed to total excellence in developing the Ultimate Race Simulator by being the world's first to combine a total of 4 LCD's which completely immerses the driver in the virtual race environment. VRX Industries goal is to give drivers the true and complete sense and feeling of speed; taking the sensation further beyond the tactile feedback system of the Buttkicker and Bose Acoustimass 10 sound system by adding a Virtual Wind System powered by 2 dual Honeywell Fans."
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The 4th is the rear view mirror!
