Is The Ace Edge Really Worth It?

[Doktorwzzerd]

I just got my copy of IL-2 (finally, Gamefly didn't stock enough of these!) and its really great, in fact I'm in love. I'm only playing on simulation and I am starting to feel more confident in my playing and I'm considering getting an Ace Edge from Ebay. Do the Ace Edge users out there that play simulation feel that it is worth it? I've read a few complaints about deadzone issues (which I understand is a programming thing), also console peripherals almost always suck, which makes me wonder if the $100-$150 is really worth it.

Is using the Ace Edge in Simulation mode a significant improvement on using the 360 gamepad?

I could see having a dedicated hat switch for the look function being worth it in and of itself, I keep screwing up my throttle and can't use the rudder while I'm looking. Incidentally, do you have to click the hat switch in on the Ace Edge, as you do with the gamepad, in order to look?

Thanks in advance for your opinions.