Vendor : Virpil
Product Type : Throttle
Sku : VPC-203
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Throttle — Next Generation — Expert Series
The VPC VMAX Prime is VIRPIL's next-generation throttle, with 7 axes and 49 button inputs, metal handles with rubber grip pads, a customisable front-lift detent system, swappable button modules, a contactless analogue stick and adjustable throttle axis tension. Designed for expert pilots across fixed-wing, rotary and space sims.
Official Australian and New Zealand VIRPIL Distributor
Total inputs
| Function | Qty |
|---|---|
| Momentary push button | 12 |
| 4-way hat (+ push) | 2 |
| 2-way hat (+ push) | 1 |
| Contactless analogue stick (+ push) | 1 |
| Contactless dial axis (+ push) | 1 |
| Digital axis dial (+ push) | 1 |
| Contactless throttle axis | 2 |
| Contactless auxiliary axis | 1 |
| Encoder dial (+ push) | 2 |
| Momentary toggle switch ([ON]-OFF-[ON]) | 5 |
| Mode switch dial | 1 |
| Total button inputs (expandable with mode and shift functions) | 49 |
Why VMAX Prime
Metal handles with rubber grip pads
Premium metal throttle handles with ergonomic rubber pads, formed to the natural shape of your hands for comfort during extended sessions. The button layout has been reworked from previous VIRPIL throttles to eliminate crowding and minimise accidental inputs.
Customisable front-lift detent system
Four detent plate types included: Classic Plus (lift to pass, extra tactile bump), Warthog-Type (lift to pass and return), Aerobatic (push through), and CosmoSim (push-through central detent). Plates adjust forwards and backwards and can be mixed between sets for a huge range of configurations.
Contactless analogue stick, zero drift
The analogue thumbstick has been upgraded to a contactless digital module, delivering immense precision and zero stick-drift. Critical for TDC slew in DCS World, where even minor stick-drift causes sensor creep during sensor management.
Swappable input modules
The pre-installed hat switches and thumb button can be swapped to 4-way + push hat configurations, letting you customise your input layout to match your aircraft and flying style without any soldering or modification.
Adjustable throttle axis tension
Tune the resistance of each throttle axis to your preference: lighter for fast combat inputs or heavier for precise throttle management during delicate approaches. Adjustable without disassembly.
Eco-leather Expert Series cover included
The VMAX Prime includes a premium eco-leather Expert Series dust cover, keeping your throttle protected when not in use with a cover that matches the quality of the unit itself.
Next generation throttle control
Expert Series — 7 axes — 49 buttons
Introducing the next generation of throttle control. The VPC VMAX Prime features a huge range of inputs, including 7 total axes and 49 button inputs, expandable further with mode and shift functions. Designed to integrate into any VPCockpit or run as a standalone desktop throttle unit, it is rated 5 stars across fixed-wing mil sim, fixed-wing GA, rotary and space sim categories.
Metal construction
New ergonomic design
Premium metal construction throughout, including metal throttle grip handles with rubber pads. The VMAX Prime's all-new handles are formed to the natural shape of your hands, bringing comfort during extended airborne sessions. The button layout has been completely reworked from previous VIRPIL throttle designs to eliminate crowding and minimise accidental inputs.
Detent system


Configure to prevent accidental idle cutoff or afterburner
The VMAX Prime detents can be configured to require lifting to pass through a detent, preventing accidental crossover into idle cutoff or afterburner range. Alternatively, push-through plates provide tactile feedback without requiring detent lifts. All four types are included:
Detent plates adjust forwards and backwards within the axis range, and plates can be mixed between sets for a huge number of configuration possibilities.
Ultimate precision
14-bit native resolution — 0.02 degree angle detection
The VMAX Prime uses VIRPIL's custom contactless digital sensors throughout, bringing incredible precision and accuracy to throttle and axis inputs. No contact means no wear, ever. The contactless analogue stick also uses this technology, eliminating the stick-drift that plagues conventional potentiometer-based sticks.
Technical specifications
What's included
Common questions
Does the VMAX Prime Throttle require a flightstick base?
No, the VMAX Prime is a standalone throttle unit. It connects directly to your PC via USB and works alongside any flightstick or HOTAS setup. It can be used on a desktop or integrated into a VPCockpit cockpit frame.
What detent plate type should I use for DCS World?
For most DCS fixed-wing aircraft, Classic Plus or Warthog-Type detents are recommended, as both require lifting to pass through the idle cutoff detent, preventing accidental engine shutdown during combat manoeuvres. For DCS helicopters or space sims where you want smooth continuous throttle movement, the Aerobatic or CosmoSim push-through plates work better. All four types are included.
How many total inputs does the VMAX Prime have?
49 button inputs and 7 axes. Button inputs can be further expanded using mode switch and shift state functions in the free VPC Configuration Suite, effectively multiplying the number of unique inputs available.
What is the contactless analogue stick and why does it matter?
The analogue thumbstick uses a contactless digital sensor (the same Hall-effect technology used in VIRPIL joystick gimbals) instead of a conventional potentiometer. This means zero stick-drift, ever. In DCS World this is critical for TDC slew, as even tiny amounts of stick drift cause the sensor to creep off target during sensor management.
Can I adjust the throttle axis tension?
Yes, the VMAX Prime throttle axis tension is adjustable without disassembly. Tune each axis from light (fast combat throttle movements) to heavy (precise slow throttle management during approach and landing) to match your aircraft and flying style.
Do I need any software or drivers?
No drivers required, it works immediately as a standard USB HID device. For advanced configuration (axis curves, button mapping, shift states, mode functions, virtual axes) the free VPC Configuration Suite is available from the VIRPIL support portal.
What warranty and returns cover the VMAX Prime Throttle?
It's backed by a 2-year VIRPIL manufacturer warranty, handled locally by Player1 Sim Gear as the official Australian distributor, so there are no international returns for warranty work. You also get a 14-day change-of-mind return: item in original, unused condition with all packaging, accessories and detent sets, refund less return shipping and a 5% handling fee. Full Australian Consumer Law protection applies. Call 0488 385 870 with any questions.
Do you ship to all of Australia? How long does delivery take?
Yes, we ship Australia-wide from our Queensland warehouse. Same-day or next business day dispatch. Delivery typically takes 2–8 business days depending on location. Call 0488 385 870 for current stock and express options.
Why buy from Player1 Sim Gear rather than directly from VIRPIL overseas?
Player1 Sim Gear is the official VIRPIL distributor for Australia and New Zealand. Buying locally means full Australian Consumer Law protection, a valid Australian GST tax invoice, warranty handled locally (no international shipping for repairs), Australian stock, and a team you can call on 0488 385 870 who actually flies sims like DCS and MSFS on this gear.
Build the full experience
Pair your VMAX Prime Throttle with a VIRPIL flightstick, rudder pedals and cockpit frame for the complete HOTAS flight sim experience.
Not sure which VIRPIL throttle is right for you?
Our team flies DCS World, Microsoft Flight Simulator and other serious sims on VIRPIL Controls gear. We can help you build the right HOTAS setup for your cockpit and budget.
We ship all over Australia and want you to get your new gear as fast as possible, so we always aim to ship on the same day we receive your order, using the fastest and most reliable couriers in Australia. Of course, it may not always be possible to process your order on the same day, so please allow 1-2 business days for processing. If we encounter any delays we will let you know via email.
To maximise efficiency, Player1 Sim Gear ships all products in their original packaging straight from our warehouses or directly from our suppliers and manufacturers. Orders may be shipped in part or in full, and different courier companies may be used for different parts of your order. Please allow 2-8 business days for delivery. Please advise your phone number at checkout so we can get in touch with you if there is any problem. If you should receive a product that has been damaged while in transit please contact us immediately.
Please make sure someone will be available to receive your order, otherwise, your package may be diverted to your local post office or to your local shipping depot. We recommend all deliveries are sent to a business address to avoid any re-delivery charges. Note: Player1 Sim Gear will only ship to confirmed addresses, we cannot ship to PO Boxes sorry.
There may be times when the product you have ordered turns out to be out-of-stock with us or our suppliers. We will contact you to arrange a refund or alternate product if an item you have ordered is out-of-stock or unavailable for immediate shipment. You may cancel your order at any time prior to shipping.
International Orders: Apologies at the moment we don't ship internationally as standard. However if you outside Australia and there is something you'd like to purchase please do message us at sales@p1simgear.com.au, we will be happy to see what we can do.
Note re Larger cockpits and remote locations: We do our very best to ensure accurate shipping rates, however for larger cockpits and heavier items, rarely our shipping pricing may not be correct. In the event that the actual shipping costs for a large item should be exceed those quoted in your order, we will call you to discuss before we dispatch. You will have the option then to amend or cancel your order at no cost.
We hope we can provide as much information and guidance as possible about each item so that you will love whatever you buy. We do understand though that the unforeseen happens. So in the unlikely event you wish to raise a return, please contact us and we shall discuss options and how we will proceed with the return request.
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return. You may return your item(s) for an exchange/refund, so long as it is in the same condition that you received it, unopened, with tags and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
To request a return, you must first send an email to support@p1simgear.com.au with your Order number as the email subject and Reason for Return in the email body/message. We will reply to your email with your relevant return information. We will not accept any returned items if we have not had an email from you requesting a return, so you must request a return first, before sending anything back.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
You, the buyer, are are fully responsible for paying all charges necessary to return the item to us. A restocking fee of up to 20% of the returned product's value may apply.
Items must be returned sealed and unused in their original packaging and in a fully resalable condition. All items are supplied to you, the customer, in brand new condition unless explicitly stated otherwise in the product title. For such items supplied in Brand New condition, if any seals have been broken, the item cannot subsequently be sold as new after the return, therefore the return will be declined or a restocking fee will be levied and partial refund given.
If the item is deemed DOA or faulty once opened, we shall troubleshoot and assess the nature of the fault and repair the item or replace like-for-like, should the fault be deemed a legitimate fault.
Items returned that are not in their original condition may not be accepted, and the refund request declined.
Returned items must be complete with all packaging in good condition, ready for immediate resale. All components and items within packaging (e.g. polystyrene/bubble wrap) must be returned also. We reserve the right to levy a charge to replace product packaging which is damaged / defaced / missing.
We cannot accept responsibility for returned parcels which are undelivered back to us (e.g. lost by the courier, delivered to incorrect address) or damaged in transit back to us. We strongly advise you send returned items using an insured & tracked service. Furthermore, we also strongly advise you to obtain and retain your proof of postage, as you may require it should you decide to make a claim against your carrier should they damage or lose your item whilst returning it to us.
For items which require assembly, we are not responsible for any charges (labour or otherwise) incurred during fitment/removal of allegedly faulty (or incorrectly supplied) parts.
Returns made outside of the 30-day return window, or with no valid reason, will be declined.
Pre-Order CancellationsVIRPIL manufacturer warranty backed by Australian-local support
Warranty Coverage
VIRPIL manufacturer warranty
Returns Policy
Change of mind & unwanted items
Your Rights Under Australian Consumer Law
ACL protections apply to all purchases from our store
How to Make a Warranty Claim
As our customer, all warranty and return enquiries are handled by us directly here in Australia — no need to contact VIRPIL overseas. Simply submit a support ticket through our help portal or browse our knowledge base, and our local team will take care of everything.
Official product documentation & setup guides for all VPC hardware
Grips
9 manuals
Bases
12 manuals
Control Panels
4 manuals
Throttles
4 manuals
Rudder Pedals
7 manuals
Accessories
21 manuals
Software Manuals
3 manuals
Software, firmware, 3D files & configurator layouts for all VPC hardware
VPC Software — Latest Release
2 downloads
VPC Software — Previous Releases
35 downloads
VPC Cadet — Previous Versions
7 downloads
3D Files
1 download
Configurator 2.0 Control Layouts
13 downloads
