Author Topic: Repurpose furniture at right height for lightweight stand-up MAME machine? (Read 26425 times)

snorpmeister · « **on:** July 19, 2011, 11:48:16 am »

I've wanted a MAME cab forever. But I've realized that:

1) I'm not going to buy a complete, pre-built cab (don't have the cash, e.g. thousands)
2) I'm not going to refurb an existing cab (don't have the skills)
3) I'm not going to build a cab from scratch (definitely don't have the skills)
4) I'm not going to buy a cab kit (still don't have the skills)

Even if I did have the cash or skills, I may be moving soon. So I don't want something that weighs hundreds of pounds and is hard to move.

What I'd like to do is purchase furniture that's at about the right height for a stand-up cab and repurpose it for MAME. What's the typical ground to joystick height for, say, a Ms Pacman or Galaga cab? Then put an Xarcade or similar pre-built controls-unit atop it. Then mount, or preferably free-stand, an LCD or CRT monitor. Something so simple even *I* can assemble it. "Assemble" being a bit of a stretch. I can put basic particle board furniture together if all it requires is a screwdriver.

Any suggestions for COTS furniture (preferably available in box box U.S. retail stores) that could serve double-duty as a lightweight MAME platform? Maybe some sort of "stand up" computer workstation? Or would those start to cost about as much as a cab kit? Again, I'm looking for something reasonable lightweight but that also has at least some stability to it. But I can't be overly picky about the stability given my budget and weight constraints.

Sure I won't have all the cool artwork, etc. But now I have nothing. And something is better than nothing. Would love to see photos of a project like this if anyone has done something like it.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #1 on:** July 19, 2011, 11:53:36 am »

So let me get this straight. You want a desk so you can rest your arcade on? How is that a project?

Rando · « **Reply #2 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:01:27 pm »

To get the games running and looking like they should, you just need a PC and the right software.

To get the games playing like they should, you need to build/buy a control panel for your sticks, buttons, etc.

To get it to feel like it should, you then put those components into a cabinet.

Sounds like you want to stand and play your games, but not have an actual cabinet that everything goes into. Something like a tall desk/shelf, with the control panel mounted (in some fashion) to it, right?

Seen some folks mount a flatscreen and then have a standing CP that you approach and play on. PC Components could be on floor right below screen, or in a box/entertainment unit type table. Might be your simplest option.

robertsig · « **Reply #3 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:02:54 pm »

Snorp,
Welcome....

Being a BYOAC forum, you need to have at least *some* skills or resources, whether its woodworking, electronics, computers or money. If you lack maybe one or two of them, you can make it up in other areas (purchase a kit, purchase a PC), but you have to have something to start with.

If you don't have wood skills, no money to buy a kit or anything like that, I suggest you postpone your venture. Maybe spend a couple weeks reading this forum and others to get an idea of what you want to do before spending ANY money.

Now....that being said, I do have a recommendation. For someone money challenged, space challenged and woodworking challenged, a bartop kit would be ideal. You'll have to figure out the wiring basics, buy the joysticks, buttons, IPAC and of course a PC, but its one of the cheapest ways to get a real MAME cabinet as opposed to what you listed. In *any* case, it will be several hundred dollars minimum.
Try here: http://www.mameroom.com/Products_kits.asp

Or just buy a premade arcade control panel, plug it in via USB and be done with it.

Vigo · « **Reply #4 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:03:16 pm »

Yeah, using furniture will just look like furniture with a computer on it. That said, you can probably use just a desk like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Keyboard-drawer-Casters-Printer/dp/B002SUC7UG

Then just buy an x-arcade. It could possibly look a bit arcade-ish if you wrapped it in black cloth, but don't expect too much.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #5 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:15:17 pm »

Yeah just get that, stick a couple of dictionaries or text books under the x-arcade to get it to the right height and you are good to go

snorpmeister · « **Reply #6 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:16:09 pm »

Quote from: Rando on July 19, 2011, 12:01:27 pm

To get the games running and looking like they should, you just need a PC and the right software.
To get the games playing like they should, you need to build/buy a control panel for your sticks, buttons, etc.
To get it to feel like it should, you then put those components into a cabinet.

Sounds like you want to stand and play your games, but not have an actual cabinet that everything goes into. Something like a tall desk/shelf, with the control panel mounted (in some fashion) to it, right?

Yes, that's it Rando. Thanks for the suggestion. Would love to see photos of folks who have set-ups like that. If this isn't the correct forum for asking, where else should I check? Thanks also to others who've posted. Will definitely consider it all. Maybe it is best to wait. I've seen a $500 unit, I think on Amazon, that doesn't look too difficult to assemble. But I wonder how easy it would be to disassemble when and if I move cross-country.

Weight and size are important. Otherwise I'd have already bought, for example, a sit-down Crazy Taxi at auction or other driving games. Driving games can often go cheaply. The rub is getting them home and through the doorway if you don't have a garage to place it in.

Snorp

Well Fed Games · « **Reply #7 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:31:02 pm »

No, you're at the right forum. If weight, size, and cost are an issue (and really, they are for everyone, on some level), consider a "bartop" cabinet. Lots of good examples of those here, and kits are available for that sort of thing as well.

Warning, though... first I made a bartop... now I am making a full-size stand up... and am thinking about a cocktail... it is addictive!

robertsig · « **Reply #8 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:36:01 pm »

I'll help you with question #1, before you even buy a premade control panel (like the X-arcade).

How old are you, or which era of games do you want to play? What games are important? Do you want a spinner or trackball?

That'll get you started.

(Note that this question is not as easy as it seems. You won't be able to play everything you remember. Driving games may need a steering wheel and gas pedal. 'tis not easy to duplicate on a control panel unless you're a contortionist).

extendedplayarcade · « **Reply #9 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:45:25 pm »

Actually that is a good frame for a mid sized cab. Get some wood from home depot or lowes for the sides. Paint it and get some arcade artwork. Slot it for T molding. Probably could double as a workstation too. ummm let me know if anyone does something like this.

Arcade type workstation desk. ummm

Quote from: Vigo on July 19, 2011, 12:03:16 pm

Yeah, using furniture will just look like furniture with a computer on it. That said, you can probably use just a desk like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Keyboard-drawer-Casters-Printer/dp/B002SUC7UG

Then just buy an x-arcade. It could possibly look a bit arcade-ish if you wrapped it in black cloth, but don't expect too much.

alfonzotan · « **Reply #10 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:57:10 pm »

Before I wound up building my cab from scratch (which was not as difficult as I thought it would be, although it was a lot of work), I had the same thoughts. Ran across a corner desk in a thrift shop similar to the one below, and picked it up in anticipation of doing what you're talking about here.

If I'd have kept with that plan, I'd have put on panels to cover the front and sides, a marquee on the top (the one I got--for $10--was taller and more "arcade proportioned" than the one in the picture), but you get the basic idea... control panel on the main desk, LCD monitor suspended at eye level behind a bezel, etc.

Would have been an interesting project, but I don't regret passing on it...

alfonzotan · « **Reply #11 on:** July 19, 2011, 12:59:14 pm »

... stupid "quote" button...

Donkbaca · « **Reply #12 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:11:12 pm »

Never saw one that didn't look like grabage IMHO. No matter what you do to it, it would always look like a workstation desk with a bunch of crap stuck to it. Why would you use one as a "frame" and then put panels on it? Adding 1x2 batting to cut panels is the easiest part of a build

BadMouth · « **Reply #13 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:13:13 pm »

I thought this one was pretty clever (if you can make it out through the whirling camera):
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=107277.0

He did have to drill holes for the buttons/joysticks and wire them.

Vigo · « **Reply #14 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:16:07 pm »

My recommendation to the cabinet building skiddish is to find a buddy with some power tools and pay him a case of beer to cut out a simple cabinet design.

stu33 · « **Reply #15 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:20:01 pm »

I was considering this same thing when I did my first cab. But after reading here for a while, you'll actually learn some stuff. Lurking here made me confident to find a local cab and gut it for MAME. I took a broken/incomplete Bad Dudes (for 50 bucks) and repurposed it, and it's WAAAY easier than you think. Just time-consuming. Seriously, though, you'll spend so much time working on setting up the PC juuuust the way you want it (and it'll never be truly done) that you'll dwarf the amount of actual hardware work that you'll do.

The forums here are an amazing resource for learning. Really. It's worth researching here and doing what you really want.

Woodshop Flunky · « **Reply #16 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:32:02 pm »

Quote from: snorpmeister on July 19, 2011, 11:48:16 am

I've wanted a MAME cab forever. But I've realized that:

1) I'm not going to buy a complete, pre-built cab (don't have the cash, e.g. thousands)
2) I'm not going to refurb an existing cab (don't have the skills)
3) I'm not going to build a cab from scratch (definitely don't have the skills)
4) I'm not going to buy a cab kit (still don't have the skills)

Even if I did have the cash or skills, I may be moving soon. So I don't want something that weighs hundreds of pounds and is hard to move.

...

Any suggestions for COTS furniture (preferably available in box box U.S. retail stores) that could serve double-duty as a lightweight MAME platform?

Option 1... Agreed, this can be very expensive.
Option 2... I do think refurbing requires a unique set of skills (which can be learned of course

). For me though, it is easier to build than to fix.
Option 3... This can be difficult for a complete newbee, but there are lots of examples here of folks who's first woodworking project has been a scratch built cab.

Option 4... I've met a lot of people who think they don't have the skills to do this sort of thing, but I've never met anyone who has actually failed trying. I think you might give this some more thought. It will get you over a bunch of hurdles, and you can end up with a really slick machine.

If size is an issue, consider a bartop or WeeCade http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=111865.0. Personally, I think the WeeCades are super slick. They move easily, and they have all kinds of WOW and play value. You can put them on a shelf on the wall at any height that is comfortable for you, and it will be a guaranteed centerpiece with guests.

newmanfamilyvlogs · « **Reply #17 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:42:39 pm »

You could build just a CP box, deep enough to house the computer, and run that to a TV via HDMI?

As for big box products:
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/179-9532137-0496418?asin=B000HX517W&AFID=become_df&LNM=|B000HX517W&CPNG=furniture&ci_src=16079562&ci_sku=B000HX517W&ref=tgt_adv_XSE10001

Build the controls into the area the microwave is suppose to go, slap an LCD up on top. Store the computer in the bottom.

alfonzotan · « **Reply #18 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:46:56 pm »

Quote from: Woodshop Flunky on July 19, 2011, 01:32:02 pm

Option 3... This can be difficult for a complete newbee, but there are lots of examples here of folks who's first woodworking project has been a scratch built cab.

Option 4... I've met a lot of people who think they don't have the skills to do this sort of thing, but I've never met anyone who has actually failed trying. I think you might give this some more thought. It will get you over a bunch of hurdles, and you can end up with a really slick machine.

Seriously--a cabinet is really just a wooden box with a slightly-funny shape. It's really not hugely-complex job (which is not the same thing as saying that building one is easy).

DarthMarino · « **Reply #19 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:48:37 pm »

One option is to use a projector stand. You can easily adjust the height and when it's not in use you can just remove the legs and store it somewhere. I've used one with an X-arcade dual stick and it works great.

One example:
http://www.amazon.com/Project-Stand-Projection-11-25INX19IN-Table/dp/B000298U7Y

Donkbaca · « **Reply #20 on:** July 19, 2011, 01:52:25 pm »

Yeah, a simple bartop cab can made with a simple $12 piece of MDF, some wood glue and a couple of bits. Do you people seriously think that other stuff looks good? Would you seriously want a cheap chipboard microwave shelf? I say build a cab, or just keep the x-arcade on your desk, anything in between is just half assed and ugly. Sorry if this sounds negative, but I am just being honest. I see no reason to fake an arcade set up on a desk/shelf. Never saw any setup like that and thought, man that is sweet! I want one.

Woodshop Flunky · « **Reply #21 on:** July 19, 2011, 02:07:06 pm »

Quote from: Donkbaca on July 19, 2011, 01:52:25 pm

... Do you people seriously think that other stuff looks good? Would you seriously want a cheap chipboard microwave shelf?

I think that cheap rolling microwave shelf would look awsome if you gutted an old microwave and put a monitor in the door window and MAMEd it.

(kidding of course)

Vigo · « **Reply #22 on:** July 19, 2011, 02:15:02 pm »

...and put it next to your mame'd taxidermied goat.

snorpmeister · « **Reply #23 on:** July 19, 2011, 03:17:11 pm »

Quote from: robertsig on July 19, 2011, 12:36:01 pm

I'll help you with question #1, before you even buy a premade control panel (like the X-arcade).
How old are you, or which era of games do you want to play? What games are important? Do you want a spinner or trackball?

That'll get you started.

(Note that this question is not as easy as it seems. You won't be able to play everything you remember. Driving games may need a steering wheel and gas pedal. 'tis not easy to duplicate on a control panel unless you're a contortionist).

Thanks everyone (all opinions and posts both above and below). Appreciate the feedback. Looking for strictly 80's game play. Ms Pacman, Jungle King / Hunt, Galaga, Satan's Hollow, Track and Field (button mashing only--don't care for the trackball version or trackball games). Tron was a favorite but I wouldn't hold out for a spinner just for Tron.

I'll do more homework here on the forums. And keep reading here for other thoughts.

It may well turn out that I'll be "wrong" if I continue with my basic idea (e.g. get to game play as easily and cheaply as possible, ASAP, and damn the artistry). A bartop sounds like a great compromise. And I do have a buddy with a workshop. Bit of a drive away and I don't have a truck (hatchback compact car). So again, the bartop and/or weecade could fit the bill in more than one way.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #24 on:** July 19, 2011, 04:34:57 pm »

Go bartop! Probably build one for the same price as that microwave cart...

leapinlew · « **Reply #25 on:** July 20, 2011, 01:09:05 am »

Quote from: Donkbaca on July 19, 2011, 04:34:57 pm

Go bartop! Probably build one for the same price as that microwave cart...

Thats it. Lure him in with how inexpensive it will be and then BAM!

Screws
Glue
Wood
T-molding
Controls
Artwork
Primer
Paint
Wire
Rubber feet
fans
plexiglass
light fixture
power strip
tools

Xiaou2 · « **Reply #26 on:** July 20, 2011, 02:40:37 am »

As much as I Love seeing Donkbaca go ape over someone Elses cabinet choices...

Realistically, such cabinets and desks are made as cheap as possible, using low quality thin particle board, poorly enforced joints, and they barely hold up to normal use. (which is why you see them on the curbs all the time)

Rocking the thing with any force, such as when playing a physical game of Robotron, would tear that stuff to shreds in seconds.

A full cabinet gotten for cheap is a much more viable solution. You get a coin door, some controls, some wires, possibly a monitor, power cords, speakers, bezels, and existing art... if you dont want to simply paint it black.

All you might have to do it make a single control panel top change... and that can be done with minimal tools and time.

A bartop may seem easier.. but in reality, its only merely the size that throws you off. Its all the same work, just a little less of it. AND, you have to devote a table to use it. (unless you make a base for it... which then pretty much makes it a full cab)

A bartop for example, still usually has T-molding. Which means you need a router, and an expensive slot cutter. As well as t-molding itself. And then theres all the rest of the stuff...

If you are going to re-claim something for a pedestal style, it had better be some sort of older 'furniture grade' thing. Not a walmart / ikea special. Something with real thick and strong wood. It will probably look like hell, but re-claiming is cheap. It still doesnt solve woodworking challenges. But it would give a good introduction and experience. Any mistakes or wood-working butchery made on free material is an easily acceptable loss.

Ive often wondered how well cardboard could be used to make a decently looking project. With use of ?soaking? some parts in a glue-water mix, several layers, I-beam style struts, and maybe paper bags for a smooth cheap covering... It might actually be passably nice. (especially for the tool & money challenged)

Edit:

As for moving, cabs are not that hard with 2 people and a dolly. You could make a split-cab... which separates into 2 or 3 parts. The monitor is usually the thing that weighs the most. Unless you use or replace it with an LCD.

A bartop is of course much easier to transport.

A standup without any weight to it, would rock-n-roll way too much. (unless maybe you put some sandbags in the bottom of it)

snorpmeister · « **Reply #27 on:** July 20, 2011, 05:16:33 am »

Quote from: Xiaou2 on July 20, 2011, 02:40:37 am

As much as I Love seeing Donkbaca go ape over someone Elses cabinet choices...

Realistically, such cabinets and desks are made as cheap as possible, using low quality thin particle board, poorly enforced joints, and they barely hold up to normal use. (which is why you see them on the curbs all the time)

Rocking the thing with any force, such as when playing a physical game of Robotron, would tear that stuff to shreds in seconds.

A full cabinet gotten for cheap is a much more viable solution. You get a coin door, some controls, some wires, possibly a monitor, power cords, speakers, bezels, and existing art... if you dont want to simply paint it black.

All you might have to do it make a single control panel top change... and that can be done with minimal tools and time.

A bartop may seem easier.. but in reality, its only merely the size that throws you off. Its all the same work, just a little less of it. AND, you have to devote a table to use it. (unless you make a base for it... which then pretty much makes it a full cab)

A bartop for example, still usually has T-molding. Which means you need a router, and an expensive slot cutter. As well as t-molding itself. And then theres all the rest of the stuff...

If you are going to re-claim something for a pedestal style, it had better be some sort of older 'furniture grade' thing. Not a walmart / ikea special. Something with real thick and strong wood. It will probably look like hell, but re-claiming is cheap. It still doesnt solve woodworking challenges. But it would give a good introduction and experience. Any mistakes or wood-working butchery made on free material is an easily acceptable loss.

Ive often wondered how well cardboard could be used to make a decently looking project. With use of ?soaking? some parts in a glue-water mix, several layers, I-beam style struts, and maybe paper bags for a smooth cheap covering... It might actually be passably nice. (especially for the tool & money challenged)

Edit:

As for moving, cabs are not that hard with 2 people and a dolly. You could make a split-cab... which separates into 2 or 3 parts. The monitor is usually the thing that weighs the most. Unless you use or replace it with an LCD.

A bartop is of course much easier to transport.

A standup without any weight to it, would rock-n-roll way too much. (unless maybe you put some sandbags in the bottom of it)

Guess I'm back to "want the game play and stand-up orientation only but not the cab" conundrum. I hear you on the cheap furniture. Most stuff now made is crap. I'll keep searching the forums and consider how much of an investment I really want to make right now.

leapinlew · « **Reply #28 on:** July 20, 2011, 09:58:36 am »

Quote from: snorpmeister on July 20, 2011, 05:16:33 am

Guess I'm back to "want the game play and stand-up orientation only but not the cab" conundrum. I hear you on the cheap furniture. Most stuff now made is crap. I'll keep searching the forums and consider how much of an investment I really want to make right now.

Just keep your eye out for a free or almost free gutted cabinet. Start collecting parts. It's how most of us started.

Vigo · « **Reply #29 on:** July 20, 2011, 10:02:04 am »

A couple things I'd like to toss in:

1) With something as small as a bartop, there are a number of corners that can be cut, but still kept tasteful. One thing you learn from this forum is that there is always an alternative. For the T-molding, you can round the edges of the wood instead. That will save you the purchase of a slot cutting bit and the t molding itself. You can also use laminate, or you could even buy t-molding and cut the spine off and glue it into place. It has been done with reported success.

You can also cut other corners with a bartop. You can use thinner wood, you can cut both sides at the same time by clamping 2 sheets of wood together, etc. Not to mention that there is a heck of a lot less cutting, painting, fastening etc.

2) If you were going to hunt around for "furniture grade" furniture to modify, you might as well just find a gutted arcade cabinet. Depending on where you live, you can find emptied cabinets for $0-150. Throw in your own LCD screen, don't worry about arcade monitors. If you are lucky, the art is good enough to keep as is. Much less work that buying furniture to modify anyway. If you post the city you live in/near, some people around here might be able to find some options for you. I honestly see this as the easiest method for you to pursue.

robertsig · « **Reply #30 on:** July 20, 2011, 06:17:09 pm »

I'd like to reiterate. If you are someone without woodworking skills, which means most likely you don't have the experience NOR the tools, a kit will actually be cheaper and look better. No slot cutting mechanism required.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #31 on:** July 20, 2011, 07:50:51 pm »

You can build a bartop with a jigsaw, some sanding paper, and a power drill witha 1 1/8inch forstner bit, prett common tools. A router makes it SO much better and easier, but isn't an absolute deal breaker.

A bartop is far cheaper and easier to build. For one you are dealing with 2-3 foot pieces of wood instead of 6-7 foot. You can make it out of 1/2in mdf, a half sheet should be fine, that will only set you back like 15 bucks AT THE MOST. T-molding is nice, but there are work arounds, just paint the edge, or gut the spine off of t-molding and glue, or use formica, or melamine on it. You don't NEED plexi, but even if you decide to get it, a sheet big enough to cover your screen and your cp is only 14 bucks.

It seems, though, that the ideal solution is a kit. Option 2 would be to build a bar kit.

mgb · « **Reply #32 on:** July 20, 2011, 11:37:48 pm »

Hey Snorp,
Welcome.
At the end of the day, its about what you're happy with. Right now you say you don't have the money or skills and you may be moving. So maybe its not the time to build a full size machine.
If you're happy with a pc, monitor and xarcade stick, then thats the best thing for you.
Any kinda furniture mods will take some sort of skills too so maybe your best bet is just a computer desk with the basic setup.
good luck with your plans

danny_galaga · « **Reply #33 on:** July 21, 2011, 02:49:13 am »

Quote from: leapinlew on July 20, 2011, 09:58:36 am

Quote from: snorpmeister on July 20, 2011, 05:16:33 am
Guess I'm back to "want the game play and stand-up orientation only but not the cab" conundrum. I hear you on the cheap furniture. Most stuff now made is crap. I'll keep searching the forums and consider how much of an investment I really want to make right now.

Just keep your eye out for a free or almost free gutted cabinet. Start collecting parts. It's how most of us started.

+1. It will effectively be the same sort of project as doing something with furniture, but it will automatically be the right size and height and look a hell of a lot like an arcade machine

If you are in the US, you should be able to find one really cheap, cheaper than furniture, hopefully in your area. I hear Craigslist is handy.

Oh, and if you happen to pick up a cheap 'classic' cab (like defender or whatever) post a pic here first. Someone here might swap you for a more mame-able cab to save the classic...

JustMichael · « **Reply #34 on:** July 21, 2011, 12:30:23 pm »

Quote from: danny_galaga on July 21, 2011, 02:49:13 am

Quote from: leapinlew on July 20, 2011, 09:58:36 am
Quote from: snorpmeister on July 20, 2011, 05:16:33 am
Guess I'm back to "want the game play and stand-up orientation only but not the cab" conundrum. I hear you on the cheap furniture. Most stuff now made is crap. I'll keep searching the forums and consider how much of an investment I really want to make right now.

Just keep your eye out for a free or almost free gutted cabinet. Start collecting parts. It's how most of us started.

+1. It will effectively be the same sort of project as doing something with furniture, but it will automatically be the right size and height and look a hell of a lot like an arcade machine If you are in the US, you should be able to find one really cheap, cheaper than furniture, hopefully in your area. I hear Craigslist is handy.

Oh, and if you happen to pick up a cheap 'classic' cab (like defender or whatever) post a pic here first. Someone here might swap you for a more mame-able cab to save the classic...

+1.

severdhed · « **Reply #35 on:** July 21, 2011, 01:51:18 pm »

here is my opinion...

don't buy a piece of furniture to set your stuff on, because you will probably not be happy with it for very long. If you already have something lying around that works, that is one thing, but to put any kind of money into it is a waste. when i first started out with mame, i had an x-arcade that i was using for console gaming, and some old PCs sitting around. i put a monitor on top of the bar in our basement, and put the pc and controller on an old tv stand that i had sitting in the basement. it worked fine for testing, but even though i was standing up playing these games with real controls, it just didn't have that same feel as having a cabinet.

i looked around, made a few phone calls, and picked up an empty cabinet for $20. and with only a drill, a jigsaw and a dremel, i managed to modify the cabinet to my liking. over the years, i ended up getting a router and reconfigured the cabinet several times since then.

if you are planning on moving before too long though, you may want to hold off on the fullsize cabinet idea, they are a pain to move.

if you are dead set on doing that, i would pick up a cheap LCD wall mount bracket (www.monoprice.com) and hang an LCD on the wall. attach a shelf to the wall below it to set your x-arcade on with your PC on the floor or something.

personally, i think the bartop idea is probably the best at this point though. you can get them in kits that are easy to assemble, (but a little pricey) or you should be able to build one yourself (or with a friend's help) for not too much money or effort.

just don't try to be too cheap about it...you will quickly find that you can plan out a project that doesn't seem to be too expensive, but the little things add up quickly.

CheffoJeffo · « **Reply #36 on:** July 21, 2011, 02:09:18 pm »

+10 to stuff posted by the smart guys who said to use an existing cabinet.

That is much easier than anything except putting an XArcade on a desk and can be done on the cheap.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #37 on:** July 21, 2011, 05:15:47 pm »

okay I would say in terms of difficulty and portability:

1 - buy x-arcade use on desk. A lot of people start out this way, had mine for 10 years before I built a cab. Most portable way to enjoy arcade games in terms of moving around.
2- buy bartop kit - easy to assemble, small, portable.
3- buy junk cab, mame it - Only reason this isn't number 2 is because of the whole transport issue with full size cabs
4- full size kit
5 - make own bartop
6 - make own full size cab
7 - convert furniture into something you can play mame on without it looking like ass.

newmanfamilyvlogs · « **Reply #38 on:** July 21, 2011, 09:15:50 pm »

My cabinet is designed to look like furniture when not in use, and I can fully attest to it being a 7 as on the above list. I spent probably 6-7 months just planning in cad before we ever cut wood, and even with a fully equipped professional woodshop (and the staff helping with most of the construction) it still took another two months of off and on building to finish/stain/poly it. it's a beast to move, as well. check my sig if you're interested.

Anpanman · « **Reply #39 on:** July 22, 2011, 01:49:38 am »

This might suit your needs and is only $300. You'd pay that for a good computer desk anyway and it should be easier to assemble.

http://www.recroommasters.com/Xtension_Arcade_Pedestal_Arcade_Cabinet_p/rm-xt-ped.htm

Donkbaca · « **Reply #40 on:** July 22, 2011, 11:49:13 am »

THose things are hideous

Anpanman · « **Reply #41 on:** July 22, 2011, 03:01:05 pm »

Quote from: Donkbaca on July 22, 2011, 11:49:13 am

THose things are hideous

Donkbaca · « **Reply #42 on:** July 22, 2011, 03:27:44 pm »

To the OP:

Are you married? If so what will the wife allow? And before anyone jumps on me, and does one of those "you just do what you want and show her who's boss" please remember that this is 2011 not 1911 and having a pissed off wife is not fun.

If you are not married, are you interested in women? Having a arcade machine is kind of cool. An x-arcade you can stash away, having a bootleg stand to pretend its an arcade machine to play bootleg arcade games on....

mgb · « **Reply #43 on:** July 22, 2011, 11:25:04 pm »

Its not exactly what I'd want, but I think the xarcade pedistal is a great solution for someone who doesn't feel they can build or modify a cabinet and just wants to enjoy some classic games.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #44 on:** July 23, 2011, 01:32:21 am »

I can think of better things to spend 300 bucks on, like an old EM pinball machine

mgb · « **Reply #45 on:** July 23, 2011, 06:11:39 pm »

I would also rather spend $300 on something else. (as a matter of fact I'm also looking for a pinball table) but this thread is about whats best for the guy who started it, not us.

Lilwolf · « **Reply #46 on:** July 24, 2011, 06:54:31 am »

Consider getting skillz.... This forum has been amazing for helping others out. You will figure out how to refab a cab. Look around and see if you find one that you like.

And if you want to build one from scratch, the showcase cabs are the cheapest / easiest since they are basically just the control panel. But this would also be for finding the right size cabinet or something might do... But at that point, your not saving much with the prepurchase. I always wanted to build one with a projector built inside it so you move it up to a white wall and you have a cabinet. The other is a cocktail table / coffee table. I saw one a costco last night that would work with easy dual wide screen lcd mounting under the glass. But the glass was dark, not sure if it was too dark.

As for furnature. I always look around, but stability is really the selling point. you want to be able to move that joystick as fast and hard as you can without moving everything.

But really, consider getting the skillz

eds1275 · « **Reply #47 on:** July 24, 2011, 02:36:50 pm »

Quote from: Vigo on July 19, 2011, 12:03:16 pm

Yeah, using furniture will just look like furniture with a computer on it. That said, you can probably use just a desk like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Keyboard-drawer-Casters-Printer/dp/B002SUC7UG

I bet if you bought something like this, cut some hardboard to fit the frame and gave it a paint job, then installed the x-arcade on it securely you would have a pretty nice modern-looking one of a kind cab. It's already got a keyboard tray and the top is begging for a marquee. Hide a computer in the bottom, mount the monitor on a board bolted to those back supports and remove the wheels and replace them with some feet so it doesn't slide around. Sure it wouldn't be arcade authentic but it would be functional and lightweight, and you could build it all with one piece of 1/4" hardboard, a 2x4 for the monitor, some angle iron for the edges and a can of paint.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #48 on:** July 24, 2011, 04:12:17 pm »

Looks like a great crap Mame project waiting to happen

snorpmeister · « **Reply #49 on:** July 28, 2011, 04:21:59 pm »

Thanks again for the suggestions. My wife is fine with me building a game room. Sorry to all the fellahs whose wives aren't down with that.

Want to get a few pins too some day. Won't do it if I have to move soon though. And that's still up in the air. Guess I would have to pick up a few skills to maintain pins but that's not fun to me. Game play is the goal for me personally. Same with MAME / classic video games.

leapinlew · « **Reply #50 on:** July 28, 2011, 04:30:01 pm »

Quote from: eds1275 on July 24, 2011, 02:36:50 pm

Quote from: Vigo on July 19, 2011, 12:03:16 pm
Yeah, using furniture will just look like furniture with a computer on it. That said, you can probably use just a desk like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Keyboard-drawer-Casters-Printer/dp/B002SUC7UG

I bet if you bought something like this, cut some hardboard to fit the frame and gave it a paint job, then installed the x-arcade on it securely you would have a pretty nice modern-looking one of a kind cab. It's already got a keyboard tray and the top is begging for a marquee. Hide a computer in the bottom, mount the monitor on a board bolted to those back supports and remove the wheels and replace them with some feet so it doesn't slide around. Sure it wouldn't be arcade authentic but it would be functional and lightweight, and you could build it all with one piece of 1/4" hardboard, a 2x4 for the monitor, some angle iron for the edges and a can of paint.

Sounds like more work than building a cab.

Well Fed Games · « **Reply #51 on:** July 28, 2011, 08:44:03 pm »

Remember there are no rules for your project except what you yourself determine (at least here, KLOV is a different story).

Quote from: snorpmeister on July 28, 2011, 04:21:59 pm

My wife is fine with me building a game room. Sorry to all the fellahs whose wives aren't down with that.

Amen. When my mame cab gets done? Goes in the living room. Not because I fought for it, but because my wife thinks it is cool.

snorpmeister · « **Reply #52 on:** August 07, 2011, 02:50:40 pm »

Quote from: thefearsomefearful on July 28, 2011, 08:44:03 pm

Remember there are no rules for your project except what you yourself determine (at least here, KLOV is a different story).

Quote from: snorpmeister on July 28, 2011, 04:21:59 pm
My wife is fine with me building a game room. Sorry to all the fellahs whose wives aren't down with that.

Amen. When my mame cab gets done? Goes in the living room. Not because I fought for it, but because my wife thinks it is cool.

Bingo. :-)

Cory · « **Reply #53 on:** August 07, 2011, 04:08:06 pm »

I kinda have the same issue.

I'm building a bartop, and since i'm lacking an actual bar in my house I'll eventually need find something to put it on once completed.

ark_ader · « **Reply #54 on:** August 07, 2011, 06:39:48 pm »

Quote from: extendedplayarcade on July 19, 2011, 12:45:25 pm

Actually that is a good frame for a mid sized cab. Get some wood from home depot or lowes for the sides. Paint it and get some arcade artwork. Slot it for T molding. Probably could double as a workstation too. ummm let me know if anyone does something like this.

Arcade type workstation desk. ummm

Quote from: Vigo on July 19, 2011, 12:03:16 pm
Yeah, using furniture will just look like furniture with a computer on it. That said, you can probably use just a desk like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Keyboard-drawer-Casters-Printer/dp/B002SUC7UG

Then just buy an x-arcade. It could possibly look a bit arcade-ish if you wrapped it in black cloth, but don't expect too much.

That is just plain odd. Well kinda freaky.

I just got tired of pulling everything apart with the X-Arcade and setting up my projector, so this weekend I snagged a CD tower and fashioned it to my very small cheapo desk I use for all my Terminal/play/etc, and now I got it all installed and bolted down (Robotron & projectors mounted above do not mix) then you showed a pic of what I have been looking for.

This is what I have to put up with now:

I'm in the same boat as the OP. I was going to buy a Slim Mini from Turnarcades (still thinking) as it would be nice to have everything enclosed, but I am crammed in a box room with a larger desk and a bed with very little space. The idea of having a small cab Control Panel at keyboard level is now a necessity, but cost and my crap cab building skills is an obstacle. The OP might want to look at Turnarcades Mini Slim, as it would be at desk height and at 20 inches wide small enough for it to look smart, yet easy to relocate. Best of all, at chair height you can play for hours.

snorpmeister · « **Reply #55 on:** August 27, 2011, 04:27:10 pm »

Quote from: Vigo on July 19, 2011, 12:03:16 pm

Yeah, using furniture will just look like furniture with a computer on it. That said, you can probably use just a desk like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Keyboard-drawer-Casters-Printer/dp/B002SUC7UG

Then just buy an x-arcade. It could possibly look a bit arcade-ish if you wrapped it in black cloth, but don't expect too much.

So has anyone purchased this model? If so, what's the final product look like? Or better, how does it function. Although I love the artistry of cabs, I just want something that functions reasonably well and it portable.

GibsonRiddler · « **Reply #56 on:** August 27, 2011, 06:49:35 pm »

I had something similar for a desk. Same basic style, it served it's purpose but doesnt hold up for a long term use.

snorpmeister · « **Reply #57 on:** April 11, 2012, 04:34:21 pm »

UPDATE:

I decided to go ahead and purchase a 60-in-1 multicade. Very glad I did. For the price I paid at auction (~$500), it beats anything I personally could have built or set-up myself. Sure would like to add a spinner for Arkanoid... Such a fun game but a lot less so with a cherry ball 4 position joystick--but that stick is amazing for Pacman. Plays just like I remember.

MTPPC · « **Reply #58 on:** April 11, 2012, 10:51:53 pm »

I recently installed a 60 in 1 in a cabinet with a 4-way joystick. I'm really enjoying mr. do! right now. While the sound leaves a little to be desired, the gameplay is great for a novice like me.

wweumina · « **Reply #59 on:** April 11, 2012, 11:46:08 pm »

Please let this thread go away. Friends don't let friends repurpose furniture into an arcade 'cabinet'. If u really don't have/don't want to learn the skills then build/buy a control panel and place it on a desk.

mo1e · « **Reply #60 on:** April 12, 2012, 02:51:58 pm »

Its actually funny i found this thread. because ive been thinking. do i either

1.- build a control panel for my dreamcast. or 2 revamp my current pc desk and build around it?

Heres an idea of how i will do that

Sorry about the crap illustrations as i used paint for these.

I have a pc desktop table that looks like this

Heres a side view

Heres what i want inside

Heres a rough idea for the control panel

I will be building around the current pc desk using wood and the sega logo will be illuminated

And heres the side. the circle whole featuring the dreamcast logo will also be illuminated

Here it is complete

Do you guys think im being crazy? I cant really afford to build a cab since im saving to get a mortgage with my girlfriend. and this will be smaller and easier to move out when i finally do.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #61 on:** April 12, 2012, 03:12:34 pm »

It won't be cheaper, lighter or easier to move

mo1e · « **Reply #62 on:** April 12, 2012, 03:17:10 pm »

Quote from: Donkbaca on April 12, 2012, 03:12:34 pm

It won't be cheaper, lighter or easier to move

Damn now your making me want to build from scratch. and i have minimal woodworking skills to boot.

Woodshop Flunky · « **Reply #63 on:** April 12, 2012, 03:21:05 pm »

Lots of fine cabs built here by folks with little to no woodworking experience... don't let that hold you back.

mo1e · « **Reply #64 on:** April 12, 2012, 03:35:17 pm »

Quote from: Woodshop Flunky on April 12, 2012, 03:21:05 pm

Lots of fine cabs built here by folks with little to no woodworking experience... don't let that hold you back.

haaa, well your username is inspiration alone. But maybe i should just stick to building a control panel then.

drventure · « **Reply #65 on:** April 12, 2012, 04:13:12 pm »

Quote from: mo1e on April 12, 2012, 03:35:17 pm

haaa, well your username is inspiration alone. But maybe i should just stick to building a control panel then.

That's what I thought I'd do.

Boy, did that not work out

If you're saving to buy a house, I'd put that front and center.

One possibility is to take an old coffee table or end table and hack it into a simple cocktail cab.

There's a number of very nice examples on the boards here for that.

That's a build that's not too hard, can look reasonably nice in a living room if you're tight on space, still works as a table if you put glass over it, and yet can be perfectly playable for a large number of games.

The rolling cart idea seems great for a projector cart with speakers that you roll out on your lawn to watch movies outside, but not so much for an arcade cab.

mo1e · « **Reply #66 on:** April 12, 2012, 04:38:49 pm »

Quote from: drventure on April 12, 2012, 04:13:12 pm

Quote from: mo1e on April 12, 2012, 03:35:17 pm
haaa, well your username is inspiration alone. But maybe i should just stick to building a control panel then.

That's what I thought I'd do.

Boy, did that not work out

If you're saving to buy a house, I'd put that front and center.

One possibility is to take an old coffee table or end table and hack it into a simple cocktail cab.

There's a number of very nice examples on the boards here for that.

That's a build that's not too hard, can look reasonably nice in a living room if you're tight on space, still works as a table if you put glass over it, and yet can be perfectly playable for a large number of games.

The rolling cart idea seems great for a projector cart with speakers that you roll out on your lawn to watch movies outside, but not so much for an arcade cab.

Yeah obviously saving is more important. but i want to start a hobby to help me save. instead of going out all the time. plus i absolutely love my gaming

drventure · « **Reply #67 on:** April 12, 2012, 04:47:02 pm »

Quote from: mo1e on April 12, 2012, 04:38:49 pm

Yeah obviously saving is more important. but i want to start a hobby to help me save. instead of going out all the time. plus i absolutely love my gaming

No worries

Finally found the link. This thing is awesome!

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=112343.msg1210899#msg1210899

mo1e · « **Reply #68 on:** April 12, 2012, 04:59:13 pm »

Quote from: drventure on April 12, 2012, 04:47:02 pm

Quote from: mo1e on April 12, 2012, 04:38:49 pm
Yeah obviously saving is more important. but i want to start a hobby to help me save. instead of going out all the time. plus i absolutely love my gaming

No worries

Finally found the link. This thing is awesome!

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=112343.msg1210899#msg1210899

Now that project has been noted. its beautiful.... Its not too arcadey so the wifes must dig it.

Im seriously considdering going cocktail now. DAMN

Donkbaca · « **Reply #69 on:** April 12, 2012, 05:02:56 pm »

just consider a couple things with a cocktail:

1 - you have to run power to it

2- they are not all that comfortable to play on, imagine sitting on the edge of your couch, hunched over your coffee table for your gaming duration

mo1e · « **Reply #70 on:** April 12, 2012, 05:14:02 pm »

Quote from: Donkbaca on April 12, 2012, 05:02:56 pm

just consider a couple things with a cocktail:

1 - you have to run power to it

2- they are not all that comfortable to play on, imagine sitting on the edge of your couch, hunched over your coffee table for your gaming duration

Yeah i have thought about that. also because i will be using this to run dreamcast games. both playerswould have to be situated on the same side of the table.

Just searched magazine table on ebay and found this interesting looking victim.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Small-Magazine-Table-Draw-/260996225846?pt=UK_Home_Garden_LivingRoomFurniture_EH&hash=item3cc4965b36

wweumina · « **Reply #71 on:** April 13, 2012, 12:37:26 am »

Whilst that link is actually almost passable you'd need almost as many skills to modify it as to build a cabinet from scratch. It would also be better suited as a classics vertical cocktail than anything else.

Donkbaca · « **Reply #72 on:** April 13, 2012, 11:55:23 am »

Agree, you would need to build additions to the table, hide the electronics, route out an area for the glass and screen, etc.

Vigo · « **Reply #73 on:** April 13, 2012, 12:01:49 pm »

That's why a tried and true method is to buy a empty cab off of craigslist for $50.

mo1e · « **Reply #74 on:** April 13, 2012, 12:11:43 pm »

Quote from: Vigo on April 13, 2012, 12:01:49 pm

That's why a tried and true method is to buy a empty cab off of craigslist for $50.

Yeah thats one of the joys of living in the us. This hobby isnt exactly booming in the uk. i have read the tutorial on how to make a cab just now and to be honest. im going to struggle getting half f what i need.

Vigo · « **Reply #75 on:** April 13, 2012, 12:43:31 pm »

Quote from: mo1e on April 13, 2012, 12:11:43 pm

Quote from: Vigo on April 13, 2012, 12:01:49 pm
That's why a tried and true method is to buy a empty cab off of craigslist for $50.

Yeah thats one of the joys of living in the us. This hobby isnt exactly booming in the uk. i have read the tutorial on how to make a cab just now and to be honest. im going to struggle getting half f what i need.

Oh, I hear you there...didn't think about that aspect. $:-\$


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