Golf Simulator setup question

Hi guys, im in the process of setting up a golf simulator at home, after researching it seems a top end simulator will cost 30-40k+ (trackman,hd golf, gc2) . Question is, a gc2 unit without the HMT cost around 10k, besides adding a impact screen ($200) and projector (app $200) , what other parts am i missing to make a home simulation or why does the gc2 home simulation cost 35k and the heart of the unit is only 10k. thanks

Hi there. I use a GC2 in my set up. I went for a Net Return Simulator Series surround as I wanted to be able to break the whole thing down and reclaim the space from time to time. As well as the Simulator Series surround you need the projector mount kit, an ultra short throw projector (I went for the one The Net Return recommend using) and a half way decent laptop so nothing too pricey. You'll also need an HDMI cable to put between the laptop or computer and projector and depending on the distance between the two, possibly an HDMI signal boost box (just a few dollars). I got a high quality mat to hit off (top of the line Huxley Golf here in the UK) but put it on interlocking astro-turf tiles designed for kids indoor soccer pitches so I can take it apart if I want to use the space for something else, sure you can get something similar over there if you want.

http://www.softfloor.co.uk/astro.shtml

http://www.thenetreturn.com/products/simulator-series

http://www.thenetreturn.com/collections/golf-net-accessories/products/projector-mount-kit

http://www.viewsonic.com/us/projectors/3d-capable/pjd6683ws.html

The whole set up comes in at about $15k.

My set up:

The net return series is the best. If you are looking to save some money check out skytrak. They are adding simulation soon with WGT Golf for the iPad http://www.icontact-archive.com/53tHymf7jTLatkLNPAIPFBSSFlk94ugD?w=3

Thanks for the reply guys, Nosevi did you intergrate the e6 software with your gc2?. to Cedriktheo: contacted par2pro and thet said the beta testing of e6 to skytrak is going well. hope to save 8k

Don't think you can tbh. Your choices are the Foresight software (basically Redchain I believe) which I currently have or The Golf Club Simulator edition which I may get purely for the course play. I got my surround from Cory at Par2Pro as it happens. Re Skytrak, my understanding is it's great for a fun simulator but not on a level with GC2 for serious practice. If it's just fun you're after it should be a decent choice though. You might want to speak to Cory about it, he's pretty clued up on the simulator/launch monitor options out there.

Hi Nosevi,

Love your setup.  I'm looking to do something very similar though I'm trying to determine how much space I need to allocate.  Can you tell me what the distance is from the wall behind your screen to the back edge of your hitting mat?

Thanks!

Hi there. Just measured it - it's 126 inches or 3.2 metres. This gives plenty of space behind so you don't end up hitting the wall as the screen gives when you hit a ball into it. You need to be sure you have enough ceiling hight for a net return simulator series enclosure, they say 9 feet as an absolute minimum.