I could see owning that. Looks like a nice bit of kit.
Fly Away Simulation also speculates that this is the start of a new product line, so we could see the stick sold first followed by the throttle. That would be a refreshing change of pace, as only CH breaks our their components as separate products.
If the stick features GOOD force feedback (think the second coming of the MS Force feedback sticks) then I'm sold. None of that crap
Logitech pulled with the sloppy centering and grinding gears.
Saitek will also need to be on top of the software, as good force feedback is all about the drivers and the games that support the FF signal.
More likely is that this is an X-52 replacement, and knowing
Saitek I'll bet that the buttons you see surrounding the throttle are a dock for an add-on panels.
In any event, what it's way past time for the high-end
HOTAS world, is ADJUSTABLITY. I want the ability to tailor the physical feedback, centering, and linearity of the control stick. I don't think this is asking too much in a $300 video game controller.
In any event, we'll probably know more soon, as this is apparently due out for the "holiday season," which starts, um, right about a week ago.
Edit:
Saiteks already off to a bad start here, as per the Flyaway simulation article:
"
Saitek have announced they will be taking pre-orders on the 20th November (2013) with a pre-holiday launch date - so get your Christmas wish list ready and be sure to write this one down!"
http://flyawaysimulation.com/news/4691/So they're already 5 days late just with the dang pre-orders.