Description
The Ascher Racing B16L-USB is a precision-engineered button plate designed for serious sim racers who demand performance and feel. Crafted from automotive-grade aluminum, its machined, black anodized surface gives it a rugged, professional finish. This button plate features magnetic paddle shifters with strong, satisfying snap-action force, and 8 tactile push buttons that deliver a responsive click with every press. With 16 total inputs and two encoders that double as push buttons, the B16L-USB brings intuitive control to your fingertips. This model blends durability with usability, making it a powerhouse for any racing setup.
What sets the Ascher Racing B16L-USB apart?
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Magnetic Paddle Shifters The magnetic paddle shifters on the B16L-USB stand out with their strong snap-action feel. They use automotive-grade aluminum and are finely CNC-machined, providing durability and precision. The snap is firm but satisfying, ensuring you always know when you've shifted. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the package includes alternate magnets to reduce the force required, giving you customization options right out of the box.
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Comprehensive Button Label System The B16L-USB comes with an extensive set of 50 button labels and 72 encoder labels in multiple colors. This not only enhances personalization but also adds practical clarity to your controls. Having such an assortment of labels means you can easily customize your button plate to suit various sim racing setups, making your input assignments crystal clear in the heat of the race.
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Solid Build and Finishing The Ascher Racing B16L-USB’s casing is machined from automotive-grade aluminum and finished with a black anodized layer for added durability. The brushed frontplate and glass-blasted paddles give it a refined yet industrial look. Its robust design is not just for aesthetics but also ensures longevity under tough racing conditions. Sim racers praise its balance of toughness and precision.
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Universal Compatibility One of the highlights of the B16L-USB is its universal compatibility. Whether you use Simucube, Fanatec, or Accuforce wheelbases, this button plate has you covered. Its 70mm bolt pattern ensures it fits a wide range of steering wheels, making it a highly versatile option for racers using different brands and models.
Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Strong and satisfying magnetic paddle shifters. |
Not compatible with heavily dished wheel rims. |
| Extensive button and encoder labeling system. |
Requires a spacer for certain setups. |
| Durable, lightweight aluminum construction. |
No wireless option for this specific model. |
Specifications
| Specification |
Value |
| Weight |
1000 g |
| Dimensions |
385 × 285 × 195 mm |
| Inputs |
16 total inputs (8 push buttons, 2 encoders) |
| Paddle Shifters |
Magnetic, CNC-machined aluminum, adjustable snap-action |
| Finish |
Black anodized, brushed frontplate, glass-blasted paddles |
| Button Guards |
2 protective button guards |
| Package Contents |
50 button labels, 72 encoder labels, mounting hardware |
Ascher Racing B16L-USB Compatibility
The Ascher Racing B16L-USB boasts impressive compatibility with a wide range of direct drive wheelbases, making it a go-to choice for many setups. It's compatible with Simucube 2, Fanatec DD1/DD2, Accuforce, Leo Bodnar, and OSW systems, among others. Its 70mm bolt pattern ensures it fits a variety of popular steering wheels, such as those from MOMO, OMP, and Sparco. For some wheelbases, like VRS Direct Force, longer screws may be required to mount it securely, but that's easily manageable with the provided hardware.
On the other hand, the B16L-USB is not suitable for heavily dished steering wheel rims, and some users might need a spacer to create sufficient clearance. While Fanatec wheelbases are compatible, they do require a Podium Hub for the proper fit. Its versatility makes it a strong option for racers who frequently change their equipment, ensuring easy transitions between different setups.
The B16L-USB is strictly PC-compatible, meaning it won’t work with Xbox or PlayStation systems. It’s optimized for use with PC racing simulators and games like iRacing, Assetto Corsa Competizione, and rFactor 2. The USB connection ensures plug-and-play functionality with any PC, though a quick setup in the software might be required to fully configure all the controls.
