Logic3 Podium

The Podium

Manufacturer: Logic3

Price: $19.99 (US)

Review date: 10-21-00

The Podium from Logic3 is one of those "why didn't I think of it ideas". Actually I did think of it but didn't implement it too well. What I did was build a non-adjustable version of the podium from scrap wood and sanded it down for a smooth finish. I then strapped a joystick to it with rubber bands and sandwiched the stand between my chair and legs. It allowed me to sit away from my desk a bit while having the stick on a sturdy, well placed base.

The Podium is designed to accommodate wheels from Logic3 (and other manufacturers). Both PC and console wheels secure to the Podium using their claming mechanisms or suction cups. Suction cup securing methods work quite well thanks to the smooth surface of the podium. The Podium is also thick enough and of a solid construction to accommodate different clamping systems. You can easily center the wheel on the deck of the Podium because there are 3 yellow arrows on the deck marking the center position. This allows for good positioning and balance.

The Podium ships in two pieces. The base and podium are separated in the box. Once assembled they cannot be taken apart. Two guide pins make sure the podium is not mounted in the wrong direction. Once you snap the pieces together the pins can (and should) be removed. There are two adjustments that can be made. The first is the height of the podium. By turning the yellow lock ring under the podium you free the shaft that extends the podium height a few inches with 3 locking points. The second adjustment allows you to tip the podium forward. A lever at the front of the base is clearly marked lock/unlock. It also has 3 positions you can select from. This adjustment cannot be made if the guide pins are left intact after assembly. This is all described well in the small, multi language manual.

The unit can be used either on the floor- in front of a TV, or in a chair- for PC use. The floor use is especially nice if you have a wheel for your console system since most systems are connected to a TV in an open area without a table nearby to host the wheel. In either case the Podium gets is stability and support from placing the base "wings" under your legs. The wings are not too intrusive and will not be noticed by users.

I put the Podium to work not only as a wheel base but used it for joysticks, my keyboard and even my laptop. The deck surface allows a variety of things with rubber feet to stay in place well. I also tried using a flight yoke on the Podium. Although it mounted well it didn't allow for enough space to effectively pull the yoke out to its extreme position before hitting my belly. The Podium is a great extension to your desktop, most which are not designed to accommodate controllers.

Overall, the Podium is a great addition to any gamers setup. It gives you the added space you need to use your controller as it was meant to be used. The Control Center highly recommends the Podium from Logic3 to all console users with a wheel. Even PC users will find a use for the Podium either as a wheel base or joystick stand.