Bare minimum needed to get started

[PhatJohnny]

I have an Optishot simulator that has served me well over the past couple of years. I am looking to upgrade simulators and it seems that the ES Tour Plus launch monitor is an interesting unit. Considering that I already have a golf mat, a net, a 65" TV that I use for my monitor and a new laptop, what else will I need to upgrade to the ES Tour Plus?

• Do I need to purchase ES Software?
• How much should I budget on top of the cost of the launch monitor to get going at a minimal basis?

Thanks,
John

[nickfisher47]

John, I went with a very similar setup with the Ernest for a few months, and what you have seems like you have what you need, but now it's more about what you want. When I had your setup, I did get the following:

Landing Mat: not available on this site anymore, but they're easy to find Foam Exercise 8-pc. Mat Set (kohls.com). This can cost $20-$30 or even lower. I put these under the landing turf I purchased to raise up the grade a bit so it rolls a bit better.

Landing Turf: I was able to get a piece of putting turf, just basically the width of my net, and running back to the hitting turf. It kept the ball from bouncing and cracking so quickly. I got this from Real Feel Golf Mats - nothing on their site, I just called and had a chat with them. This cost $200 for me, I'm sure there are cheaper options, but I really liked the quality of the turf I received.

I purchased TGC2019 and love it. There is no software to purchase for Ernest, the free software that comes with the device is limiting.
TGC was $1000, and if I do quick math, I've used it probably 4 out of every 7 nights in the past 6 months, so it ends up being very cost effective.

You'll see a billion other ideas, but these options will get you a setup that's the envy of most golfers everywhere.

[PhatJohnny]

Thanks nickfisher47 , appreciate the information.