7 replies to this topic

[Greedy Guido]

G'Day Trend Setters,

 

Doing some more research on solenoids vs surround sound feedback.

 

I get the impression that solenoids are a must but the surround sound feedback add a bit of extra backgorund.

 

What is the general concensus?

 

Also,  How many of each gives the optimum affect.

[njk70]

Personally I skipped putting in solenoids once I got my SSF settings dialed in. But I have a somewhat unusual setup, but I expect even more normal ones using SSF Thump probably give a similar result. I find it more than sufficient and has the added advantage of being able to control the volume.  That said I do plan to add solenoids, just to see, at some point. But at the rate I work on the hardware (going on 5 years) I don't expect it to happen soon. 

 

If you do get solenoids, SSF is still desireable for other sound effects. Most people will consider the solenoids a must in a cabinet.

[deadmanworking]

I added 4 small 12v solenoids for flippers and slingshots only. I find the bumper sounds from SSF chunky enough but flipper and slingshot sounds vary greatly by table so it's good to have some mechanical support.
In any case I don't see how you would do solenoids only as you'd be missing out on ball rollings sounds, switches, relays and all other cab effects that are not momentary solenoid calls.
The common set ups are 8 or 10 solenoids, so in addition to flippers and slingshots you would have 4 or 6 for the bumpers.

[Tesla]

G'Day Trend Setters,

 

I get the impression that solenoids are a must but the surround sound feedback add a bit of extra background.

 

 

 

I think my opinion is the other way-around...

 

So, I did SSF-7.1 now. The sounds coming from the different zones is noticeable and adds to the realism. It can be speakers or even transducers I think.
No DOF required.

 

https://www.vpforums...=52387&p=548071

 

I might add some flipper solenoids later (now that I have a Night-Mode switch).

[Suikazz]

nightmode switch (mandatory IMO) + SSF + real pinball parts = highest satisfaction

[Greedy Guido]

Just found this kit that does solenoids and SSF.  Also includes all the control boards, buttons, lights, plunger and power supply.

 

https://www.clevelan...ll-builders-kit

 

Has anyone used this and if so what is the feed back.

Edited by Greedy Guido, 04 December 2025 - 07:20 AM.

[njk70]

They seem to be the go-to easy method these days. See https://youtu.be/1ot...zVvWOOyb8shdfUn from Way of the Wrench. The design I believe has changed a little since the video was made, probably removing any need to mod them the way he did.

 

Also has a video on SSF https://youtu.be/qCu...zVvWOOyb8shdfUn

Edited by njk70, 04 December 2025 - 01:30 PM.

[Suikazz]

sorry to say, solenoids are sh*t! they sound nothing comparable to real pinball parts and make no sense.

the "saver boards" are just there to prevent them from overheating and burning... jm2c