cheap benedini clone

[Max-U52]

Hi Fellas, Not long ago I saw a link to a benedini clone that was only about $23 US and now, wouldn't ya know it, I can't find it again. It was only engine sounds, but I need one for a truck so engine is really all I need. Hmmm, I think I saw it in a halftrack thread. I've tried all kinds of searches and no luck, so if anyone knows how to get good cheap engine sounds in a truck I could use the help.

[Max-U52]

OK, I found it again. False alarm. In case it sounds interesting to you, this is it

http://www.banggood.com/Sound-Unit-for- ... 97656.html

[maxmekker]

you thinking of getting one ?

I feel like I have had to many good talks With MR Benedini to 'support' that clone of his, but offcoz , one part of me is eager to see/hear if it can deliver ..

[wibblywobbly]

I have had the original and the clone on a bench side by side. They are identical, with the exception that the clone comes with proper pins for the additional plugs. It works perfectly, in every way the same as the original. The pcb and the components are completely indistinguishable from each other.

This is the smallest board of the range, so you don't get the amplification or the the functionality, eg programming flexibility, that you would get on the next model up, but what you do get is very high quality sounds on a board that is small enough to fit anywhere.

When I saw the clone initially I was convinced that it had come from the same factory as the original, it was that good. The cost comparison is a matter of conscience. One part of me says that someone has copied someone else's work, another says that due to the minimal components on them they are not worth what Benedini charges, so it was inevitable that someone would simply source the components and produce them at a fraction of the cost. Benedini could have done the same, sold them at the same lower price, and kept his share of the market. If the Chinese copy the mid-range board they are going to cause a few headaches.

I was quite interested to learn that Mr Benedini appears to design and make these boards himself, up until that point I assumed that there was a big factory somewhere? At the end of the day it is tough when someone copies development work, and makes money out of someone else's work, if it was me I would not be happy.

Just to clear my conscience I can assure anyone reading that although I had both on the workbench neither was, or is, owned by me. Despite the price, I still prefer dedicated tank boards with sound, eg Clark, Elmod, IBU, as they do what they are designed to do and are a much neater install.

Rob

[maxmekker]

Thanks for posting Wobbly.

[Tankbear]

Just to add to Robs comments.

Most people just see the price tag when buying parts, but also consider Benedini, ElMod and IBU are all manufactured in Europe and as such are made to tighter constraints like lead free components something a Chinese copy will not be.

Products made in Europe also have CE and EMC certified this cost money and time again a cost the manufacturer takes on board when pricing the products.

And back up support is great on all these products, because the manufacturer understands everything about it, so when people ask them a question they take the time to answer time isn't free it comes out of time for manufacture and development. Again this is built into the price tag.

And the obvious is the development cost to design these products and associated software packages.

Just my 2p worth to the matter.

Ian.

[maxmekker]

Good Points Ian. I have 2 tbs , and have had many good talks With Thomas , and sound Exchanges , so I think the loyalty will stay With Benedini in this matter .