The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Multi-Shift is as innovative as it is brilliant to use. It’s an accessory for the Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel & Pedal System or another wheel system that makes for the perfect compliment to your simulation setup. Whether you want an H-shifter, a sequential shifter, or a handbrake, you are covered here. The versatile and convertable shifter adapts to whatever you need it to be, reducing the need to buy multiple hardware items for nearly the same function. Turtle Beach really nailed it with this one, and the Multi-Shift is it.
From the moment you unbox the Multi-Shift, you’re greeted with a sense of premium craftsmanship. The unit boasts a robust construction, with a blend of high-quality plastics, sleek metal accents, and comfortable, soft-touch surfaces. It matches the VelocityOne Race aesthetics (as it should). It’s clear that Turtle Beach has poured meticulous attention into every detail, from the satisfying click of the buttons to the smooth glide of the shifter. You can mount it to a race cockpit, or to your desk next to the VelocityOne Race. One thing to note, mounting it doesn’t use the tool you get with the Turtle Beach wheel, base, and pedals, so now you gotta have two types of Allen wrenches around.
But the Multi-Shift is more than just a pretty face. It’s a powerhouse of functionality, offering sim racers an unprecedented level of control and immersion. The heart of the device is its revolutionary shifting mechanism, which seamlessly transitions between an H-pattern layout and a sequential setup. This means you can tackle classic road cars with the traditional H-pattern, then switch to a rally beast with the lightning-fast sequential shifter, all without having to swap out any hardware. Now if you primarily race with paddles, then the ideal configuration is to get this to be a dedicated handbrake. Choosing one or the other might not be for everyone, but it has the flexibility that other hardware manufacturers simply don’t offer. It looks and feels great, and has multiple applications: short H-shifter, long H-shifter, long handbrake, or a short handbrake. Now for some, the vertical handbrake even in its longest form isn’t as long as you’d like. For me though, when mounted on my desk, was perfect. Optionally, the system does support a second Multi-Shift Unit so that you have dedicated shifting and handbrake control.
The H-pattern mode is a joy to use, with seven gears plus reverse, allowing you to precisely navigate the intricacies of manual transmissions. The throws are crisp and well-defined, providing tactile feedback that makes every shift feel authentic. And for those who crave the rapid-fire action of sequential shifting, a flick of a switch transforms the Multi-Shift into a rally-ready companion. The sequential mode is equally impressive, with short, precise throws that let you bang through the gears with speed and confidence.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. Turtle Beach has also incorporated a clever handbrake function into the Multi-Shift. In sequential mode, a dedicated button instantly converts the shifter into an analog handbrake, giving you the tools you need to execute hairpin turns and Scandinavian flicks with pinpoint accuracy. This versatility is a game-changer, allowing you to seamlessly transition between different driving styles and disciplines without missing a beat.
Beyond its core functionality, the Multi-Shift is packed with features that elevate the sim racing experience. The unit is fully adjustable, allowing you to customize the shifter position and resistance to your exact preferences. This ensures optimal comfort and control, no matter your driving style or setup. The Multi-Shift is also compatible with a wide range of racing games and platforms, including PC and Xbox, making it a truly versatile piece of kit.
In terms of performance, the Multi-Shift delivers on all fronts. The Hall-Effect Magnetic Technology of the shifter’s mechanism is incredibly responsive, with no noticeable lag or delay. Every shift is registered instantly, giving you the confidence to push your virtual car to its limits. The handbrake function is equally impressive, providing smooth and precise control that allows you to finesse your way through even the most challenging corners.
But what truly sets the Multi-Shift apart is its ability to immerse you in the world of sim racing. The tactile feedback, the precise shifting, and the versatile handbrake all contribute to a level of realism that is simply unmatched. With the Multi-Shift, you don’t just play racing games, you experience them. You feel the weight of the gears, the thrill of the shift, and the adrenaline rush of a perfectly executed drift.
Of course, no product is perfect, but the Multi-Shift comes remarkably close. The only minor drawback is the lack of compatibility with PlayStation platforms, which may disappoint some sim racers. However, this is a small price to pay for such an exceptional piece of hardware.
The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Multi-Shift is a triumph of a sim racing accessory. It’s innovative, versatile, and impeccably crafted, offering an unparalleled level of control and immersion. Whether you’re a seasoned sim racer or a newcomer to the genre, the Multi-Shift is a must-have piece of kit that will transform your racing experience. With its groundbreaking features, exceptional performance, and unwavering commitment to quality from Turtle Beach, the Multi-Shift has the x-factor that no others have.
A VelocityOne Multi-Shift was provided in advance by Turtle Beach for review purposes