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Reviews (by David)

AEROSOFT - FLIGHTSIM STUDIO - B727 FREIGHTER MSFS24/20

AEROSOFT - FLIGHTSIM STUDIO - B727 FREIGHTER MSFS24/20

In my flight simming I use key commands where possible, rather than fiddly mouse clicks. This addon barely uses any of the standard MSFS key assignments for the autopilot. It also takes far too long to get the aircraft up and running if you just want a quick flight. Why is there no panel state for the aircraft to already have engines started?

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UPSIDE DOWN AVIATION - MXP-1000 TAYRONA MSFS24

UPSIDE DOWN AVIATION - MXP-1000 TAYRONA MSFS24

An updated review to say this:- the development team of this little LSA are working non-stop, releasing new updates for the Tayrona very regularly. The latest update was huge and brings; G3X Touch properly configured, G3X integrated autopilot (works perfectly), full GPS navigation now enabled and works perfectly, change to Rotax 914UL engine which is very welcome and makes the LSA a great climber. There have also been improvements to the model and texture. This addon is a labour of love for the developer and he is working non-stop to make it even better.

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UPSIDE DOWN AVIATION - MXP-1000 TAYRONA MSFS24

UPSIDE DOWN AVIATION - MXP-1000 TAYRONA MSFS24

I am the same person who left the critical 1 star review, for the original version of this aircraft addon. The aircraft has now received a major update that addresses many of the problems that were applicable in the first version. We now have a G3X as primary flight display. The aircraft FDE is greatly improved and the performance is now a lot more convincing. Most of the systems now work as intended, for starting the engine etc. The plane is using the default C152 sounds (which are very good), so I assume this model is depicting the MWFly engine, rather than the Rotax 912 engine variants. The model is now a lot of fun to fly. I think the next area for improvement should be modelling (interior/panel) and textures. They are definitely moving in the right direction with this now! I am very biased because the Tayrona was the first general aviation aircraft I ever flew. I have been dreaming of a Tayrona for flight sim for 10 years. I think and hope that this model will continue to improve, with each new version.

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COCKSPUR - COCKSPUR C162 SKYCATCHER MSFS

COCKSPUR - COCKSPUR C162 SKYCATCHER MSFS

This aircraft has less functionality than the default MSFS aircraft. There are many areas that are lacking in quality. Things like absolute silence when the doors are opened. In order to be immersive, details like this matter. Also, every C162 that was sold IRL came with an autopilot. It's integrated into the non-certified LSA Garmin G300 suite. No autopilot with this model. It's just all very very average, dull and is really lacking quality and immersion.

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SIMSOLUTIONS - SIMSOLUTIONS DA20-C1 ECLIPSE MSFS

SIMSOLUTIONS - SIMSOLUTIONS DA20-C1 ECLIPSE MSFS

Ok here are the problems:- The oil temperature gauge is broken and never moves up to the normal temperature, the trim indicator is broken (doesn't light up) so you have to guess your trim, missing sounds for things like the canopy opening, the tablet, which looks very unrealistic cannot be removed, so it's sitting there looking at you the whole time. All in all, this is sub-default aircraft, buggy and not immersive. Very disappointed.

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BORIS AUDIO WORKS - CIRRUS SR-22 SOUND SET - MSFS

BORIS AUDIO WORKS - CIRRUS SR-22 SOUND SET - MSFS

Bought this for the XP11 SR22 and it was the best GA sound pack I've ever heard. Whilst the MSFS version is not quite as articulate or wide ranging in sounds as the XP11 version, it's still an absolute must have, if you enjoy the SR22 in MSFS, and so much better than the stock sounds. I wish they had got things like the AC / fan sounds working with the MSFS version, as they did with the XP11 version.

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RARA-AVIS SIMS - ZIPPY SPORT MSFS

RARA-AVIS SIMS - ZIPPY SPORT MSFS

This plane is completely unflyable, as it is not compatible with the new (increased torque) prop physics in MSFS SU9. Regardless of the payload, fuel and CofG settings, the plane will tumble forward onto it's prop (and cannot be recovered) as soon as any throttle is applied. The developer needs to completely reconfigure the CofG config, to account for the new prop physics. I have reached out to the developer, and if the plane is fixed and becomes actually usable, I will update this review.

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LIGHTSIM - STREAM MSFS

LIGHTSIM - STREAM MSFS

Quite a nice little aircraft, similar in functionality to the default MSFS aircraft. There are no EFBs, or options panels - just a basic aircraft. It doesn't fly too close to the numbers of the actual stream. PS. Contrary to what the other reviewer has said, this plane is unrelated to and nothing like the VL3. It's a completely different tandem design, different manufacturer and even a different engine (this uses the 912 ULS, the VL3 uses the 912iS).

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TABURET - FISHBURN AIRFIELD MSFS

TABURET - FISHBURN AIRFIELD MSFS

I am amending my last reviews (3 stars) to a FIVE STAR review. I was unhappy that the Fishburn scenery did come with any parking spots in MSFS. I emailed the developer, Taburet asking about this, and received a reply almost immediately stating that he would add a parking spot. He emiled the following day to confirm that he had now added it, and the new updated version is awaiting upload at Simmarket. THIS IS FIVE STAR SERVICE! Thank you Senor Taburet.

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TABURET - FISHBURN AIRFIELD MSFS

TABURET - FISHBURN AIRFIELD MSFS

This is my lcoal airfield and, considering the low price, this would have been 5 stars....but, the developer has not added ANY parking spaces to the airfield. So, just like the default MSFS version, you HAVE to start every flight on the runway, with the engine running etc. For a payware airfield this is very disappointing - I actually only bought this airfield because I assumed at the very least that it would finally include at least 1 parking spot, for starting flights on.

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LIONHEART CREATIONS - TRINIDAD TB-21 GT MSFS EDITION

LIONHEART CREATIONS - TRINIDAD TB-21 GT MSFS EDITION

Positives:- - Relatively good fun to fly - Quite good modelling Negatives:- - Some really dubious texturing (ex-FSX textures) - No switch sounds, door sound, external wind w/door opened - In fact no custom sounds at all; just stock Asobo - Autopilot is a mess. Glideslope has two tactics; 0 FPM or 1000 FPM - No rain effects on windscreen, when raining outside In summary, a really rather low quality offering. Feels completely unfinished, or like the dev has not yet learned the full MSFS SDK. Too expensive for this below par level of quality. Hasn't bothered with immersive interior sounds, hasn't bothered to map rain effects. Although the textures may be hi res, this means nothing if the base source textures are of such low quality (look at the Socata logo on the yoke). Really feels like a dev just cashing in on MSFS by crudely getting a FSX model pushed into the new sim - in a low quality and unfinished state.

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IMMERSIVE AUDIO - DIAMOND DA40 IMMERSION SOUNDPACK HD FSX P3D

IMMERSIVE AUDIO - DIAMOND DA40 IMMERSION SOUNDPACK HD FSX P3D

This is the best GA addon sound pack I've come across. The fidelity is so high and the sounds just so realistic and immersive. I wasn't too excited about flying the Alabeo DA40 to be honest - it's not a particularly exciting addon but this sound pack absolutely transforms it, and with the F1 GNS430 in the panel and this sound pack, the DA40 has new life! Highly recommend this sound pack - like all of Immersive Audio's work, it is very very high quality.

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ZINERTEK - HD VIRTUAL COCKPIT FOR LEVEL-D 767 FSX P3D

ZINERTEK - HD VIRTUAL COCKPIT FOR LEVEL-D 767 FSX P3D

Not the greatest upgrade in the world, and I feel they should have re-rendered the text labels on the overhead, rather than leaving them as 'dot matrix' style. However, it is a subtle improvement and the new PFD/EHSI/EICAS screens are quite a big improvement, with glass reflections and some smudging. Overall, if you're a Level D 767 afficionado, it's worth the price, to subtley improve this old but still beautiful complex airliner.

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MEGASCENERYEARTH - ENGLAND & WALES V2 FSX P3D

MEGASCENERYEARTH - ENGLAND & WALES V2 FSX P3D

Pretty good all round. Nice clear imagery. The images are in places out of date though. For example, where housing estates have been build on green belt areas, the imagery still shows the field. If you use a photoscenery autogen package like Nuvecta this can mean that the latter will (correctly) place houses there, but the MegaScenery will still show the field = houses in fields. But overall I'm glad I bought it.

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NUVECTA - LANDSCAPES™ ENGLAND AND WALES FSX P3D

NUVECTA - LANDSCAPES™ ENGLAND AND WALES FSX P3D

Pretty good. Worls well with Mega Scenery Earth England and Wales. There are some areas where housing estate autogen is sitting in fields, but this is not the fault of Nuvecta - it's where the MegaScenery photos are out of date, and housing estates HAVE actually been built in these fields! Really adds depth and immersion to photoscenery. Just a little expensive for what is effectively a data faile for placing autogen. But I'm glad I bought it.

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FSXCENERY - MARTHA'S VINEYARD AIRPORT KMVY FSX P3D

FSXCENERY - MARTHA'S VINEYARD AIRPORT KMVY FSX P3D

Some people have been overly harsh on this developer but for the small cost charged, the quality is pretty good, and they are nice airfields, not covered by other developers. Additionally, the profits from the sales of many of their airports go to their local animal shelter, which I'm happy to support. I really enjoy flying down to this airport from Orbx Bar Harbour. Nice job!

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LORBY - LORBY-SI - CAMERAPOSITION X FSX P3D

LORBY - LORBY-SI - CAMERAPOSITION X FSX P3D

My previous 2 star review was read by the developer, who immediately got in touch and offered some great support and help. I now have the tool working great with all aircraft, except the Aerosoft Airbuses (possibly due to the custom VIEW system they have, although I have that turned off. Very happy to revise my rating to 4 stars. The tool does exactly what it's supposed to now, in all cases except the Airbuses. One of the main actions I took to resolve the problems, was to re-install the required .NET application and re-boot my PC.

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LORBY - LORBY-SI - CAMERAPOSITION X FSX P3D

LORBY - LORBY-SI - CAMERAPOSITION X FSX P3D

The core functionality is very good and easy to use. The problem is that, for me, it only works on around one third of the aircraft I tried it with. With the others, I get constant "Unhandled Exception" errors, when trying to save new default viewpoints. The zoom system is also very buggy, and if I adjust zoom (via the tool or in FSX), and then again try to save the new default viewpoint, I again get the "Unhandled Exception" error. I think this tool needs some internal reworking to better handle potential conflicts and errors in writing to the CFG files. As it stands, it is just far too buggy, even considering the low cost.

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JUSTSIM - STRIGINO - NIZHNY NOVGOROD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FSX P3D

JUSTSIM - STRIGINO - NIZHNY NOVGOROD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FSX P3D

Absolutely love it! .... Really love these high quality Russian sceneries; goes great with RF Scenery Kalinigrad, Domodedovo, Aerosoft Norilsk, Yekaterinburg, etc, for some nice NGX and AXE flights. Quality is superb and as well as the nice airport itself, a large amount of surrounding scenery is also covered, with power stations, bridges, custom pylons crossing the rivers, etc. An absolute bargain for the quality. Look forward to more from this new developer.

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WSSIMULATION - DIAMOND DA-20 C1 ECLIPSE V3.0 FSX P3D

WSSIMULATION - DIAMOND DA-20 C1 ECLIPSE V3.0 FSX P3D

Sadly, even at the EUR 7 upgrade price, the quality is direly lacking. The VC texturing is very blurry, especially on the text in the main panel (even at high resolution settings in FSX/P3D. The overall VC texture quality is, I have to say, at freeware level. Engine sounds are ok, but cockpit, immersion sounds are non-existant (switches, etc) and some default sounds are present. There are so many great models out these days, that I just cannot find any reason why anyone would choose to spend their flying time in such a low quality all round model.

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AEROSOFT - SVALBARD-LONGYEAR X FSX P3D (DOWNLOAD)

AEROSOFT - SVALBARD-LONGYEAR X FSX P3D (DOWNLOAD)

Very sparse add-on. Even with the low price I think they could have offered a little more. There are very few objects in and around the airfield (even with scenery and autogen set to max) and most of the add-on consists of a ground texture bmp. I would have liked to have seen more of the island textures, and the coastlines sorted out. Even just a couple of miles from the airfield, there are those nasty sharp, jagged, angular coastlines of default FSX in this area. Still, I love Svalbard and I don't regret buying it because it's still better than any of the freeware versions around. I just think we could have gotten a little bit more.

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ZINERTEK - HD AIRPORT GRAPHICS FSX P3D

ZINERTEK - HD AIRPORT GRAPHICS FSX P3D

A number of vendors have released upgrades of default airport object and textures (eg. Aero Files etc) but none are in the same league as Zinertek's offering here. This package does exactly what it says it will. A very convincing and nice upgrade to all default airports. Of course we all prefer to fly in and out of detailed addon airports, but sometimes it is nice to head off to a more mysterious destination, off the beaten track, not covered by payware airports. That is wht I bought this and it really does make the dull boring generic default airports quite a lo more convincing. For the price, absolutely 5/5.

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SIMNORD - DANISH AIRFIELDS X - ENDELAVE FSX P3D

SIMNORD - DANISH AIRFIELDS X - ENDELAVE FSX P3D

Absolutely beautiful! .... I was getting so bored of Orbx US airfields. When you're not from the US it's just harder to identify with all those Orbx airfields. I'm also not keen on Orbx ENG as all their airfields are too close to FSX's London airspace, and frame rates suffer as a result. So I discovered Vidan Design and these gorgous little Orbx-esque airfields. And now, Denmark (or should I say Danmark) is my new home! I'v esince picked up 5 of Vidan's Danish Airfields and I fly between them in good quality GA aircraft, just as you'd tend to do with Orbx. But frame rates are significantly better than with Orbx. The visuals aren't quite a hi-rez but the benefit is higher frames and faster textural loading. You still get the nice rural sounds, and plenty of Ambience. If you like GA around Orbx style scenery, then try these, they are much cheaper than even the cheapest Orbx airfields, and are really great fun to fly between. (Orbx FTX Global Scenery and Vector recommended to improve your en-route experience in Denmark. Happy flying!

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FSFX PACKAGES - PRECIPITFX (FSX, FSX:SE & P3D)

FSFX PACKAGES - PRECIPITFX (FSX, FSX:SE & P3D)

The price is low and the rain and snow effects are greatly improved on FSX default. The installation is a little longwinded because you don't actually get the installer from Simmarket, when you buy here. You get your registration, but you then have to go to the developers site and register, in order to download. But a good product, worth having in your FSX installation for it's subtle but noticeable improvements.

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AEROSOFT - NORILSK X (DOWNLOAD)

AEROSOFT - NORILSK X (DOWNLOAD)

My all time favourite airport add-on for hard winter time flying. Beautiful icing textures and a real ambience of being "in the middle of nowhere". Buy it, and fly there in the NGX or the Aerosoft Airbus A320 Extended, from MDesign Domodedovo, or Drziwiecki Sheremetyevo...... = perfect winter Russian flying. :)

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SKYSOFT - HAIKOU MEILAN AIRPORT ZJHK FSX

SKYSOFT - HAIKOU MEILAN AIRPORT ZJHK FSX

Absolutely wonderful addon airport. One of those rare airports where (even though it is only pixels on your PC screen), you really feel that you are there, in China. Everything from the sandy coloured runway textures to the authentic Chinese Kanji characters is just perfect. My new favourite airport, and great for Chine Southern flights all over China and Asia (where there are now some great addon airports). Highly recommended.

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A2A SIMULATIONS - CHEROKEE 180 FSX ENTERTAINMENT

A2A SIMULATIONS - CHEROKEE 180 FSX ENTERTAINMENT

A beautiful little PA28 for your GA collection. The interior texturing in the VC is really impressive. The sound effects around the aircraft are just like the 172, really immersive and fantastic. But just like the 172, the engine sounds themselves are a little flat, a little unexceptional. Doesn't detract from a brilliant little plane. It's twitchy on the pitch but I'm assuming this is a realistic character of the real aircraft. If you like GA it's a no brainer. I would like to see A2A do a more complex and / or faster non-military GA aircraft next though.

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LHSIMULATIONS KFT. - LHS - BUDAPEST LISZT FERENC LHBP FSX P3D 1-3 FS2004

LHSIMULATIONS KFT. - LHS - BUDAPEST LISZT FERENC LHBP FSX P3D 1-3 FS2004

It is nice, but FPS performance is not great for me. I am using an ATI video card so perhaps it's better on nVidia hardware. On my pretty decent mid-range system, this airport is considerably more taxing than for example FlyTampa, Drziwiecki and even the latest Aerosoft releases, which is a bit disappointing. But it's certainly pretty and detailed and as I got it while it was on special offer, I don't regret buying it.

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ALABEO - CRUZ PIPERSPORT FSX P3D

ALABEO - CRUZ PIPERSPORT FSX P3D

Nice visuals (as always from Carenado / Alabeo), but a pretty sterile soulless experience in use. Flight dynamics are not at all convincing (it flies like every other Carenado / Alabeo), sound set has no fidelity and the sound inside the cockpit is not damped at all, and thus sounds more like an exterior sound. It would have got 2 stars but the low price brought it up to three. Wouldn't recommend it though. Just too formulaic - too much like every other Carenado or Alabeo with nothing to make it sparkle. This one truly is 'flying textures'.

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FLIGHTSIMSOFTWARE - ATC AMBIENCE FSX FS2004

FLIGHTSIMSOFTWARE - ATC AMBIENCE FSX FS2004

Does exactly what it claims to. I already had a free program that played my ATC Chatter files, but it just played constantly, whereas this program works when you tune 123.45 on your COM1, which was exactly what I wanted. What would make this a 5 star program? .... Having it start AUTOMATICALLY when FSX starts. At the moment, you have to start FSX, then come out of it to start this program, then go back to FSX (otherwise the program does not read FSUIPC. It would be fantastic if it would autostart with FSX. But still a fiver well spent. :)

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WILCO - REGIONAL JET VOL1 - CRJ

WILCO - REGIONAL JET VOL1 - CRJ

It seems odd doing a review for this product in 2014; considering I first bought it in late 2004! That was the boxed version for FS2004 and I bought this for FSX today because the CRJ is one of my favourite aircraft and I've almost given up on waiting for the Digital Aviation CRJ. So back to this one; well as I said it is a 2004 product, BUT, it is actually very functional, with all realstic automatic flight modes (such as SPEED pitch mode), decent functionality on hte overhead, and a pretty decent FMS. It flies ok too; a little jittery but then the real CRJ is a demaning aircraft to fly, often described by airline pilots as like flying a fighter jet. The VC is typical 2004 standard so I use the 2D Panels when flying this (yes I know, in 2014!). One other excellent factor is that this product supports FSUIPC Mouse Macros, so you can assign all the custom functions like the MCP modes to key commands or hardware. It is a sad indictment to Wilco that this 2004 feeThere product is still a million miles better than Wilco's bugged and abandoned in-house CRJ Deluxe.

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FRANCEVFR - BREST GUIPAVAS LFRB FSX

FRANCEVFR - BREST GUIPAVAS LFRB FSX

I hadn't had a CTD for over 2 years. My FSX was perfectly set up. I purchased and installed this FranceVFR addon and launched FSX and started a flight there.... within 10 minutes I suffered a CTD. I done a further 6 tests in various aircraft, settings, etc, and each time I got a CTD. I uninstalled this addon and flew all of the same flights and got no CTD. To be sure, I re-installed it, and one again got CTDs on every flight. Uninstalled again and no CTDs. I know this addon is from 2008 but it still doesn't excuse it causing CTDs when it states it is compatible with FSX. A google search showed other people having the same problem with older FranceVFR products. This was my first ever FranceVFR addon, and it will certainly be my last.

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MILVIZ - MV310 FSX P3D

MILVIZ - MV310 FSX P3D

A short review from me this time; In my opinion this is THE best light twin aircraft ever released for FS. The visuals, the sound (there are many custom sounds), the flight dyamics (which are challenging but very realistic) but mainly, the fact that MilViz have given something so useful to FS fans, that so few (if any) other developers ever give; an alternative model of the aircraft with an 'open' VC panel where you can add and customize and of your own avionics. I use a highly customized version of this aircraft (Reality XP, different AP, Instruments, etc) and that is only possible because of the innovative 'radio free' version of the aircraft that MilViz provide. If you like light twins, you must own this one.

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JUSTFLIGHT - DC-6B LEGENDS OF FLIGHT (DOWNLOAD)

JUSTFLIGHT - DC-6B LEGENDS OF FLIGHT (DOWNLOAD)

A great aircraft. Part of what makes this an enjoyable addon is of course that it's a DC-6! ... A legendary and beautiful aircraft. The product is made by Aeroplane Heaven and does show some of their often appearing limitations, especailly around systems coverage which is very sparse to say the least. However, the VC looks pleasant enough, the sounds are fantastic and most importantly of all, it flies like a dream. Good frame rates too. It will never be a PMDG level product but nontheless it's great fun and one of the addons I enjoy most of all in my collection. I would rate it overall at 3.5 stars but because it's a DC-6 I rounded it up to four. :)

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LIONHEART CREATIONS - AVELINA FSX P3D

LIONHEART CREATIONS - AVELINA FSX P3D

Sorry but this is a bad idea, that should have stayed at just the idea stage. It is a gimmick, about as far from any real aircraft simulation you will find in FSX. It feels twitchy and too light too fly, has possibly the ugliest VC I've ever seen and not even good frame rates to go with it. Lionheart offerings are certainly improving a little with things like the Tripacer, but in my opinion, this Avelina Concept plane belongs in the days when Lionheart aircraft were at freeware standards. There are so many better aircraft add-ons out there, I cannot imagine why anyone would want to fly someone's crazy idea about a flying car. Why di I buy it? I was bored had the itch to buy an add-on some time ago, and I made the wrong choice!

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IRIS AVIATOR SERIES - JABIRU J-160 FSX P3D

IRIS AVIATOR SERIES - JABIRU J-160 FSX P3D

Absolutely love this little aircraft. I've been waiting for a Jabiru for a long time. They're hugely popular light sports / Ultralight aircraft in Australia, with quite a few in Europe too. We've had to wait so long because there aren't many in the US yet so presumably other developers were passing the Jabiru over, unsure whether it would be popular. Jabiru are sparse aircraft, and it shows in this model (in a good, convincing way). It's like a composite frame, with some seats plonked in and an engine. And the strange 'monoyoke' in between the pilot and copilot seats is modelled. Sounds are great as are visuals and flight handling characteristics. The only bug I found (the reason for 4 stars instead of 5) is that the toe brakes are far far too sensitive and can cause you to lose lateral control in landing rollout. This can be changed in the aircraft.cfg (change toe brake effectiveness from 1.5 to 0.6) and results in a PERFECT microlight / LSA aircraft. The only other thing I'm not keen on it the GNS530 that is included - I'd have preferred RXP compatibility, or of not, just a smaller portable GPS296 as a large GNS530 doesn't seem realistic in a sparse plane like a Jabiru J160. Will be doing a lit of flying in this one. Well done IRIS.

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FLYTAMPA - BUFFALO FS2004 FSX P3D

FLYTAMPA - BUFFALO FS2004 FSX P3D

A real bargain at only 14 Euros (deal of the day)!... Fly Tampa are the best scenery creator around. This isn't quite their best (that would be Dubai and Montral), but for 14 Euros it was a huge bargain and is still a fantastic, visual feast of an add-on airport.

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TURBINE SOUND STUDIOS - BOEING 737-800 CFM56-7B HD PILOT EDITION SOUNDPACK FOR FSX

TURBINE SOUND STUDIOS - BOEING 737-800 CFM56-7B HD PILOT EDITION SOUNDPACK FOR FSX

Mixed views on this one. The core engine sounds are really nice, once spooled up above 70% N1 but below that things are a little underwhelming. I do also agree with the previous reviewer that the wind sounds are too low. I bought the TSS sound pack for the DC-9 last week and that one was transformational; just beautiful. I am a lot less convinced that this one adds a lot to the PMDG NGX experience.

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FREEZ - ZURICH X LIVE

FREEZ - ZURICH X LIVE

It's pretty good scenery, with a lot of detail. It is not at the level of FlyTampa, Orbx, etc, but maybe at Aerosoft level. What is disappointing though is that frame rates aren't a lot tougher than I expected. I have a powerful system and well-optimized FSX, and in the NGX, where I would have 40 FPS at say FlyTampa Vienna, I have about 21 FPS here at this Zurich X airport. This is below my personal standard and I probably won't use this airport much now.

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A2A SIMULATIONS - C172 TRAINER FSX ENTERTAINMENT

A2A SIMULATIONS - C172 TRAINER FSX ENTERTAINMENT

I think there is little doubt that this will become one of the best GA aircraft around for FSX, but on release it does have a number of bugs, that aren't traditionally seen with A2A releases. The aircraft gets stuck in grass or rough terrain and is very hard to move once this happens. I believe this is a problem with the ground friction. The Flight Dynamics are also questionable in some areas (although A2A maintain they are realistic). I could not get the camera views associated with the pre-flight screen to remain in sync also. I think that after a SP to resolve these and more bugs, this will be the one to go for, but at present it has a few too many bugs for a full recommendation.

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NMG SIMULATIONS - OR TAMBO JOHANNESBURG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FSX P3D X-PLANE10

NMG SIMULATIONS - OR TAMBO JOHANNESBURG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FSX P3D X-PLANE10

Sorry to say it but I bought this product this evening and it is far below expectations. The modelling is at freeware levels at best. It uses plain old FSX default ground textures. I will say again, if I had installed this airport as freeware I would still be removing it, but to have paid for it is depressing. Most frustratingly of all, despite this product visually being inferior to the default FSX version of Johannesburg, it gives terrible frame rates, much worse than default. I flew the Majestic Q400, a very very frame rate friendly aircraft. I can get 30 FPS at UK2000 London Heathrow is that plane, and yet had 18 FPS in this Johannesburg airport. That is the lowest I have EVER seen the frames go in the Q400. Hard to believe it's an an airport that honestly looks like it is from FS2002. I also bought NMG Trading's Kruger Airport and that is a lot better, although still below average for payware in 2013.

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AREZONE - DIAMOND DA42 SOUNDSET

AREZONE - DIAMOND DA42 SOUNDSET

I buy a lot of sound upgrades - usually from TSS as most of their packages are amazing. This is the first and last product I will ever buy from Arezone. It's really poor IMHO. The sounds are actuallu worse than those that came with the DA-42 that I bought (from Eaglesoft). There are pops, crackles, and even cycling sounds. There are many many freeware sound upgrades that are far far better than this. Save your money; this adds nothing to the simulation.

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WING CREATION INC. - WING CREATION INC - FUKUSHIMA RJSF FSX

WING CREATION INC. - WING CREATION INC - FUKUSHIMA RJSF FSX

At last - high quality airport scenery, for interesting locations in Japan. I'd not heard of this developer, but the quality of the scenery is very very good. It's not quite FlyTampa or Orbx, but it's much better than the likes of Imaginesim or Blueprint. A very welcome addition to FSX and I hope the developers will make a lot more Japanese airports for FSX - I'll buy them all.

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AEROSOFT - ROBIN DR400 X (DOWNLOAD)

AEROSOFT - ROBIN DR400 X (DOWNLOAD)

This is an absolutely FANTASTIC addon for FSX and P3D! .... Beautiful visuals, textures and rendering, awesome HQ audio, wonderful flight dynamics. My favourite GA single engine aircraft ever released for FSX, and that includes RealAir and A2A products, because this one is as good, but also gives fantastic frame rates and smoothness. Just get it!

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REALFLYING - COCKPIT GARMIN 1000 CESSNA 172SP SKYHAWK

REALFLYING - COCKPIT GARMIN 1000 CESSNA 172SP SKYHAWK

If you look at my last two reviews, of other REAL FLYING aviation films, (Cessna Mustang and C340 II), you will see that I gave high scores and lot's of praise. This film however is extremely disappointing and not at all worth the price. The entire film has been shot with a single camera that appears to have been hand held by someone in the right seat of the C172. The problem is that all you get with this film is views outside. Want to see the G1000? You will hardly get a glimpse of the MFD (right side) and indeed you will not see the PFD (left side at all). You don't get to see a single hand on a yoke, it is just 1 hour of external views. If you want to see external views of Switzerland for 1 hour, buy this film. If you want to see the C172 or G1000 do not.

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REALFLYING - COCKPIT CESSNA CITATION MUSTANG

REALFLYING - COCKPIT CESSNA CITATION MUSTANG

Excellent little film that is well worth the money if you are interested in private jets or exotic GA. Don't expect it to be like Just Planes as it is a little rougher around the edges but it's still a very worthwhile watch. If you love the Flight 1 Mustang, then this film is a must.

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AREZONE - PIPER ARCHER II  SOUNDSET

AREZONE - PIPER ARCHER II SOUNDSET

In my opinion this one is not up to the usual AREZONE standards of sound pack like their Malibu and C208. This one is just lacking in feeling realistic and does not even include a fuel pump sound for the Archer, so FSX just uses its default. There are much better soundpacks to invest in that this one.

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AIDATA LIMITED - IDEAL FLIGHT 10

AIDATA LIMITED - IDEAL FLIGHT 10

WOW! How did I ever get by in FSX without this addon? This is a truly amazing add-on that increases my enjoyment of FSX by a factor of ten. It does so many things, from generating random flight destinations, to creating flight plans that are far superior to the default FSX plans. It can even generate approach course waypoints right down to the TDZ on the runway. This effectively gives you RNAV style GPS approach vectors for any airport in FSX! There are many other flight plan types it can generate, including avoiding controlled airspace, something which the default FSX planner cant touch! It also has a simple, automated weather generator. But best of all is that it creates flights in seconds and puts EVERYTHING you could ever need to know for your flight, into the FSX kneeboard. All you ILS freqs, flight plan, weather, runways, everything. An absolutely amazing addon that every FSX buyer should pick up!

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AEROSOFT - DA20-100 KATANA 4X FSX

AEROSOFT - DA20-100 KATANA 4X FSX

This is a really beautiful little plane, and was clearly a work of passion for Marcel. There's a full maintenance & service module and you can do everything from check for water in the fuel, add oil, change a flap motor, even wash the plane. My only negative comment would be that, considering that this addons does a LOT of processing in the background as you fly, it appears to be very memory hungry. I run 3GB on Win XP SP3 and I do occasionally have some memory timeouts where FSX close, when flying this plane. Especially of running other PC services like a music player. People on 64 bit systems with 6GB of RAM etc should be fine. Its also heavier on FPS than most small planes of its type in FSX. But if you have a pretty good PC, there's no better small plane than this.. well possibly the new Aerosoft H36 Dimona is it's equal.

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WSSIMULATION - DIAMOND DA-20 C1 ECLIPSE

WSSIMULATION - DIAMOND DA-20 C1 ECLIPSE

I have to update my previous review. The latest build 1.2 is a HUGE improvement. Textures are better, flight modelling better in fact this is now a very enjoyable light aircraft to take VFR flying. The VC is realy well rendered now and the reflections in the cockpit give a feeling of real quality. Frames are pretty good but not as optimized as Carenado. Still, considering the good value, I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys low and slow.

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LIONHEART - WITTMAN TAILWIND FSX P3D FS2004

LIONHEART - WITTMAN TAILWIND FSX P3D FS2004

An exquisite exterior model and beautifully textured VC are the highlights of this value for money package. Unfortunately, the downside is the flight model which is extremely flitty and wild. I fully appreciate this is an extremely light aircraft but even light aircrafts can be given smooth, realistically simulated airfiles. (For example, the RealAir Scout). This one definately needs some work. I look forward to the next version which will hopefully make these lovely little planes, nicer to fly.

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CARENADO - PIPER PA-28RT 201 ARROW IV FSX

CARENADO - PIPER PA-28RT 201 ARROW IV FSX

I own every Carenado add-on for FSX. The Arrow continues the trend of a beautifully textured model and virtual cockpit. Sounds don't seem as convincing as in their C172N to my ears. The let down for this aircraft, for me, is the flight model. The aircraft is not pleasant to hand fly and doesn't seem to follow the numbers for this aircraft. I know the T-Tail Arrow can be challenging in real life but even challenging aircraft can be fun and still feel realistic - this just feels like a dead weight both in the air and on the ground. I also dislike the use of an unauthentic autopilot. It is in the correct position for this aircraft but why didn't they include the authentic, less-featured Piper Autocontrol, which actually came with the Arrow, instead of another rendition of the dull FSX default-style KFC250 unit? With some real improvement this cold be a classic but at present it's not Carenado's best I'm afraid.

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NEWPORT - BOISE X

NEWPORT - BOISE X

Even though I'm British, I've always been drawn to flying around Boise and the Idaho area. Flights from KBOI to places like KSUN are wonderful and show off the best of FSX's scenery. But now we have a wonderful quality add-on scenery of Boise. Really good quality and good value for money. Well done to the VFR Extreeme team - although I'm not sure why you have an extra E in Extreme !

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WSSIMULATION - DIAMOND DA-20 C1 ECLIPSE

WSSIMULATION - DIAMOND DA-20 C1 ECLIPSE

Low price and sadly low quality. Poor textures and the model is of freeware quality in my honest opinion. So sound file at all is provided, the product uses the standard C172 sounds aliased. flight dynamics are too twitchy which the real DA-20 is not, despite being a light aircraft. This add-on is nowhere near the league of the Aerosoft Digital Aviation Katana DA20.

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CARENADO - MOONEY 201 M20J FSX

CARENADO - MOONEY 201 M20J FSX

A gorgous model and VC. The usual high standard from Carenado. The flight dynamics are much improved from the FS2004 version, but could do with feeling a little more buttery. Good sound and decent frame rates. My only complaint is that it is very difficult to get a good view out of the forward windshield. Tried various seat positions and zoom levels and still find it hard to navigate by visuals in this aircraft. Alround though, a high quality offering. Not quie up to their stunning C182Q, but still worth the money.

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CARENADO - CESSNA C182Q FSX

CARENADO - CESSNA C182Q FSX

What a beauty! All of the Carenado magic, and then some! I've owned this place for less than 1 hour and I can already say it's my new favourite in the GA hanger. Gorgous VC, nice sound, stunning model. The only thing that could be just slightly better is the flight dynamics, which can feel a little dull. But then again, this is a Cessna workhorse and they are known for their docile, slightly heavy handling. GREAT FRAME RATES! Just buy it.

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LIONHEART - EPIC LT DYNASTY FSX P3D

LIONHEART - EPIC LT DYNASTY FSX P3D

Version 1.5. A very nice external model and virtual cockpit. In my opinion, I found the flight dynamics a little on the wild side. The aircraft felt twitchy and a little too sensitive to pitch changes. I suspect the Take Off marker on the trim display on the MFD is in the wrong place as I constantly needed to trim up a LOT, after take off, even when abserving correct weights, etc. (The take off marker is nose down whereas most aircraft require some nose up trim. This maybe correct but I suspect too much nose down trim is being requested by the marker). I also found this aircraft hard on frame rates and quite stuttery and jumpy in FSX, whereas no other addon aircraft are exhibiting this in my FSX installation. In my opinion, this add on is striving to be of Eaglesoft quality but does not yet achieve this in it's current state. Still, the other reviews below are highly appraising of the product so each to their own.

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SYNCHRO-SOFT - CFM56-7B SOUNDSET

SYNCHRO-SOFT - CFM56-7B SOUNDSET

Although the overall engine sounds are good, I was disappointed that this sound pack didn't offer more in terms of other sounds that add to immersion. For example, Synchsoft's c172 sound file is superb as the ground roll effects are amazing - you can here rattles, creeks, etc, great fun! Whilst I would not expect a CFM56-7B to sound like a c172 lump, I would like to have heard better effects on the ground roll - appropriate rattles, etc.

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SYDESIGNS - AUTANA 2005

SYDESIGNS - AUTANA 2005

Not good. Apart from anything else there is NO documentation at all in English. Everything is in Spanish. Even the installation instructions (which have some messy requirements) are in Spanish. Now I love the Spanish language and I am semi-fluent but it annoyed me that the developer does not mention on the sales page that this product is only supported in Spanish. I went to their web-site and that is Spanish only. If you don't speak basic Spanish I would not recommend buying this product at all. The product itself is best described as FS2002 typ standard. The scenery is average at best. The best part about the whole product is the little Ultralite, which to be honest is nice in the way that most freeware ultralites are. Sorry but this is poor value for money compared to most products for sale on Simmarket.

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HIFI SIM - XPAX

HIFI SIM - XPAX

People who are comparing this product to FSPassengers are missing the point! This is a different product, aimed at adding a different type of immersion to the sim. Ok, so the flying assessment aspects of it are nowhere near as detailed as FSP but X-Pax gives you is much better audio, videos of flight boarding, the gate, etc, and a general package that adds the hussle and bussle of flying the airlines. I tend to get it going then just minimize it to the tool box on Windows and let it automatically do it's boarding, announcements and other sounds. The other great thing is that this is really easy to set up on a networked PC (how I use it), so you can enjoy the video aspects without disturbing your main FS display. If you want to be scored and assessed for your flying performance in FS, buy FSP instead of this. If you want sound, video and immersion, this is much better than FSP.

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ERNIE ALSTON - INTEGRATED SIMAVIONICS GROUP 1 (ISG1)

ERNIE ALSTON - INTEGRATED SIMAVIONICS GROUP 1 (ISG1)

Just excellent. I bought these for the Smiths FMS alone, and have added it to all of my Eaglesoft Business Jets. The FMS has proven reliable and very rarely gives me the "airway does not exist", that many other FMS's give when trying to enter your flight plan into the route page! One price buys the FS9 and FSX version (I use both), which is another reason why this is such great value. If you have any planes that could do with a navigation upgrade, buy this!

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