Illuminated Joystick

[level42jeff]

I'm planning to illuminate my ball top joysticks. But I had a couple questions.

1.) Which is the best, and most prefered JoyStick? (So far I've heard great things about the Happ Competition, thoughts?)
2.) I'm planing to buy these shafts from ParadiseArcade, was wondering if they would be compatible with said JoyStick above, or if there were other suggestions.
3.) I'm also planning on buying these balls (Dark Crystal) for the top, but was also wondering if they would be compatible with said shafts, or if there was a better alternitive.
4.) What "RGB" LEDs can/should I use and where can I get them? I can't seem to find them anywhere.
5.) Lastly, I would appreciate any input on which controller board I should get. It's the last piece I need before I place my order.

All help is greatly appreciated

[drventure]

Can't speak too much to the joysticks. I personally really like the Ultimarc U360s for their flexibility. But lighting them can be tricky, though I believe it's been done.

As for RGB leds, just about any 5v led that'll fit in the space you have should work (provided you apply the appropriate resistors. For that,check out the LED Calculator

http://led.linear1.org/led.wiz

I got mine at RadioShack, but that's about the most expensive option out there (buy in bulk online if you need a ton of them, I wasn't using them much so I only needed a few).

For the controller board, I like the LEDWiz, They're really easy to use and well supported. But there's several other options there to.

[syph007]

If the joysticks have a standard thread, any balltop should fit.  I bought some of the balltops you pointed to and I was very disappointed with quality.  I then bought these ones and was much happier.

http://www.lizardlick.com/Seimitsu-35mm-Bubble-Tops_c_219.html

Of course if you dont want the bubble kind, you might not like them, but I like how they light up.

[level42jeff]

Can't speak too much to the joysticks. I personally really like the Ultimarc U360s for their flexibility. But lighting them can be tricky, though I believe it's been done.

As for RGB leds, just about any 5v led that'll fit in the space you have should work (provided you apply the appropriate resistors. For that,check out the LED Calculator

http://led.linear1.org/led.wiz

I got mine at RadioShack, but that's about the most expensive option out there (buy in bulk online if you need a ton of them, I wasn't using them much so I only needed a few).

For the controller board, I like the LEDWiz, They're really easy to use and well supported. But there's several other options there to.

Thanks for the reply guys, as for the Controller Board, I was refering to the key input board, I've already added LED-Wiz (x3) to my shopping cart. But I would like to know the best PC Input board.

Also, do you know of anywhere that sells the RBG Led, with the resistors and leads already soldered?

If the joysticks have a standard thread, any balltop should fit.  I bought some of the balltops you pointed to and I was very disappointed with quality.  I then bought these ones and was much happier.

http://www.lizardlick.com/Seimitsu-35mm-Bubble-Tops_c_219.html

Of course if you dont want the bubble kind, you might not like them, but I like how they light up.

I wasn't to keen on the bubbles, hence why I chose the one I did. Quality wise, what was wrong with them? I mean, its an acrylic ball, what could be wrong?

Also, with regards to the shafts I have chosen, any one see any issues with these for sizing spacing or use?

[drventure]

Ah, input board... Well, I went with the IPAC4 and have been unequivocally happy with it. Can't speak to the other options, but there are a few.

If you're doing a 2 player, you could go IPAC2 and save a few $$

[level42jeff]

Ah, input board... Well, I went with the IPAC4 and have been unequivocally happy with it. Can't speak to the other options, but there are a few.

If you're doing a 2 player, you could go IPAC2 and save a few $$

I saw the iPac2 but I'm pretty sure its 2 inputs short for me (I want to add the two pinball buttons on the side) What kinda of price difference is there between the 2 and 4? and where can I order them?

[syph007]

I wasn't to keen on the bubbles, hence why I chose the one I did. Quality wise, what was wrong with them? I mean, its an acrylic ball, what could be wrong?

Also, with regards to the shafts I have chosen, any one see any issues with these for sizing spacing or use?

I don't like how rough the thread insert is, it would not go all the way on my shafts so that thread was still showing below the ball.  The plastic material felt weird to me.  I'm picky I know, but I just didn't like them.  The colors of the colored ones are very odd too.  The arcade red is NO where close to the arcade red of other parts I have.  The seimitsu ones on the other hand are nice.  They just feel right, and the threaded insert is perfect. 

I have about 20 various balltops at home I bought recently when I was trying to decide what I liked best.  I'll take pix later to show the differences. 

[level42jeff]

I wasn't to keen on the bubbles, hence why I chose the one I did. Quality wise, what was wrong with them? I mean, its an acrylic ball, what could be wrong?

Also, with regards to the shafts I have chosen, any one see any issues with these for sizing spacing or use?

I don't like how rough the thread insert is, it would not go all the way on my shafts so that thread was still showing below the ball.  The plastic material felt weird to me.  I'm picky I know, but I just didn't like them.  The colors of the colored ones are very odd too.  The arcade red is NO where close to the arcade red of other parts I have.  The seimitsu ones on the other hand are nice.  They just feel right, and the threaded insert is perfect. 

I have about 20 various balltops at home I bought recently when I was trying to decide what I liked best.  I'll take pix later to show the differences. 

That's great, I'd really appreciate these pictures. I kinda understand what your talking about, but I think the pictures will clear up any confusion.

Do you have a led joystick? I'd love to see the illuminated difference between the Ball I chose and the Bubble ball.

[Donkbaca]

I have the lit top joysticks from paradise, the joystick they sell with it is a chinese seimitsu knockoff, I believe.  THe shafts will fit the joystick it comes with, and the seimitsu joysticks, they will not fit the happ comp.

I like the sticks the generic chinese sticks, they feel pretty decent to me.  I prefer the heftier feel of american sticks and these feel a lot less sloppy then their japanese counterparts.  I am not a super joytsick connoisseur, but I have played with comps, sanwa's, seimitsus and various knockoffs, and I like these.  I play MK9 on my cab all the time with my xbox 360 and I find this stick to be super responsive with a great feel for fighters.  THe sticks also come with a restiroctor plate that lets you set the joys to 8 way with a square restirctor, 4 way and 2 way.  The only downside to them is that they are a little clicky and loud, but most microswitch joys are, and if you cared about it you could probably swap out the micros for lighter acuating ones.  Now are these the best sticks in the world?  I would say no, but they are surprisingly good.

When I ordered the sticks, I could pick the color of the LED and the tops,and it all came pre assembled, you can even specify 12v or 5v.  I imagine if you ordered just the shafts and the balls you could have the LEDS installed too.  I believe paradise has a ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- ton of balls you can choose from, they carry those same seimitsu tops.   Not to plug paradise too much, but I have dealt with them a lot, found them to be fast and friendly, shipping is cheap, and if you are ordering the shafts/sticks from there, might as well save on shipping and get the balls from there too.

The sticks I have are bubble tops.  I think they look better lit up then the non-bubbly ones, they seem to diffuse the light better.

[syph007]

I have the lit top joysticks from paradise, the joystick they sell with it is a chinese seimitsu knockoff, I believe.  THe shafts will fit the joystick it comes with, and the seimitsu joysticks, they will not fit the happ comp.

I like the sticks the generic chinese sticks, they feel pretty decent to me.  I prefer the heftier feel of american sticks and these feel a lot less sloppy then their japanese counterparts.  I am not a super joytsick connoisseur, but I have played with comps, sanwa's, seimitsus and various knockoffs, and I like these.  I play MK9 on my cab all the time with my xbox 360 and I find this stick to be super responsive with a great feel for fighters.  THe sticks also come with a restiroctor plate that lets you set the joys to 8 way with a square restirctor, 4 way and 2 way.  The only downside to them is that they are a little clicky and loud, but most microswitch joys are, and if you cared about it you could probably swap out the micros for lighter acuating ones.  Now are these the best sticks in the world?  I would say no, but they are surprisingly good.

When I ordered the sticks, I could pick the color of the LED and the tops,and it all came pre assembled, you can even specify 12v or 5v.  I imagine if you ordered just the shafts and the balls you could have the LEDS installed too.  I believe paradise has a ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- ton of balls you can choose from, they carry those same seimitsu tops.   Not to plug paradise too much, but I have dealt with them a lot, found them to be fast and friendly, shipping is cheap, and if you are ordering the shafts/sticks from there, might as well save on shipping and get the balls from there too.

The sticks I have are bubble tops.  I think they look better lit up then the non-bubbly ones, they seem to diffuse the light better.

Yup I agree the bubble tops look nicer lit, than the non bubble.  I hear good things about paradise, but shipping to canada is too much from hawaii.  Lizardlick I've made probably over 20 orders from and the shipping is very cheap to canada, and faster than I expected every time.

[level42jeff]

Hmm, so you guys think it would be worth wild to just go with the premade joys from paradise?

I'm not to worried about the shipping rates, I've already got a large cart setup from each store.

Otherwise, what joystick would you recommend for the shaft/ball combo that I'm getting?

[level42jeff]

Guys?

Also are there any RGB LED joysticks out there?

[Donkbaca]

I would just go with them, well because I DID go with them and I am happy with my sticks.

If you are not a joystick snob, go with their regular sticks, if you ARE a joystick snob, go with the seimitsu lit stick.

And I believe that they also have RGB lit sticks as well.

[level42jeff]

Do you have a link to the RGB stick? Ultimately, I don't care which joy I get, I just want RGB to match my buttons.

[Donkbaca]

Just send them an e-mail.  Or go to the BST trade and send Bryan a PM, he's on the boards a lot and should be able to answer your questions.

[level42jeff]

Thanks, for you help and suggestions.

Last thing though, what is BST Trade and who is Bryan?

[Donkbaca]

BST is the Buy Sell Trade thread.  Bryan is Bryan Armitage, the dude that owns paradise arcade shop.  There should be a vendor sticky in the BST thread for paradise arcade, the first post is Bryan's, send him a PM.

You will find that all the vendors are active community posters.  RandyT from Groovy game Gear, Andy Warne who runs ultimarc, and Bryan who runs paradise, plus divemaster who sells stuff.... if you have questions about stuff these guys sell, just PM them. They are all helpful, friendly and knowledgable

[level42jeff]

Wow, thanks for clearing that up, you've been increasingly helpful !

[RandyT]

We have a design that's been in the works for a while, but we don't have the resources at the moment to start producing them.

But....for those who want to "roll your own", it's a little known fact that the Versa-Ball Mirrored Stainless Ball-Top Joystick Shaft has a hollow shaft.  The special Electric ICE style knob runs about the same cost as the stainless knob, so those who want an EI joystick to put a standard sized LED (RGB or mono) can purchase one of these and leave in the comments that you would like the EI style knob.  Couple it with the SlipWire™ Swiveling Interconnect and you'll be all set.

RandyT

[Donkbaca]

You should definitely publicize that fact more randy.  Didn't know that, I thought the versaball was one piece.  I bet there are a lot of folks that would go for this solution, especially since it can drop into x-arcade and happ bases!

[level42jeff]

WOW, Thanks for the heads up! So I've got my knob picked out, the swivel kit, RGB LED's from ebay.

Thanks so much guys, I have placed my order at GGG (OVER $550!!) lol ...

[Donkbaca]

You should do a write up of the illuminated sticks when you are done!

[level42jeff]

If I can figure it out, then I deff will. I'm putting the order in for my RGB LEDs now.

I assume 5mm is the standard size?

[Donkbaca]

You probably want 3mm, and then you will probably have to file them down and shape them to fit.  I would ask Randy.

[level42jeff]

Crap, I just ordered 5mm, I'm hoping the seller can change the order to 3mm leds. I don't see why not.

Now I just can't wait to get my orders!

[RandyT]

A standard 5mm will fit inside the threads on these.  One would want them perched at the top of the joystick shaft for best results.

RandyT

[level42jeff]

Thanks for clearing that up RandyT.

I've corrected the order back to 5mm bulbs, they weren't expensive so if i need different ones its no big deal.

Thanks for the help guys, I hope I can count on you for some assembly advice once the shipment comes in

[danrosenstein]

Are there true 4 way joysticks (such as the true4 from GGG) that can be modified in a similar way to accommodate RGB LEDs, with a translucent top?

[armi0024]

Wow missed this thread.... Hmm where to start

First off, most threading on the Japanese style sticks is 6mm (I know that this is not what some other people use, but we try to stay compatible with the common standards so people can interchange parts easily)  
It is true that 6mm sizing makes the insertion of a 5mm LED difficult, it however can be done if one removes about 1mm total off the outside of the LED.  

However we have arriving in the next month a custom ball top that will easily allow a 5mm RGB LED, thread onto the 6mm threading, and is custom made at 1.5" with excellent light dispersion.  We also have a number of extra RGB LEDS that we'll probably be including as a complimentary give with the ball tops.  They were for a prototype run that is not going to happen of another product.

Now where would you put such a wonderful ball top?  It is true right now that we only offer the Paradise LED Joysticks in a complete built joystick.  We did this because of the excellent feed back we have on those sticks.  

Is that all? NO WAY!!!!
We have Seimitsu hollow shafts in long and short, so you can convert and LS-32, LS-32-01 or LS-32-02 to a lit top joystick.  All of these can be set to true 4 way action.

If you want to save some money, the same shaft will work on the Paradise Classic Arcade Zippyy(r) Joysticks.  Also easily set to 2,4, or 8 way action.

That's 5 options for lit joysticks.  
We also have the Titanium shaft for JLF joysticks that can be annodized to custom colors.  This joystick can be used on our Fight Stick 1 or Fight Stick 2 joysticks, which are identical to the low cost fight joysticks offered others.  Of note, the JLF's can also be set to 4 way action

So we are up to 8 options for lit joysticks...
I am starting to fee like an infomercial...
"is that all?"" "No it's not Bob, tell them what else they can get!!!"
People have requested Stainless shafts for the JLF which are arriving later this week or early next week in both the long and short shaft lengths for metal or wood panels.
combine 2 more shafts with the JLF and two fight sticks, you are up to a total of 14 combinations of LED joysticks....

"Did someone say American Style?"
Eurostick/Compact IL josytick hollow shafts also arrive with the JLF shafts.  These shafts should also work in Happ joysticks, as well as the IL....
I'm going to stop counting we are over 20 different options of LED joysticks

What else is possible???
On order and arriving before Xmas....

Hollow Wico shafts(yes with 1.5 inch balls, short and long Wico's), JLW hollow shafts (these will fit the 360 joysticks, but are not necessarily compatible without modification), Hollow shafts for over seas leaf switch joysticks we will have available as the Tru-Leaf(very similar to the Joysticks available at Mike's Arcade and GGG), Hollow shafts for the Pro-4 a joystick almost identical to a certain 4 way joystick offered by another vendor and...  

Good Grief what else do you want? Lit bat tops? Fine Fine be that way!!! also on the way  But probably not before Xmas, sorry.

So you can take you pick from a DIY Zippy with 2/4/8 way action, through the upgraded Seimitsu with a long shaft, to the American Style IL Eurostick, or even a JLF with a custom 4 8 or octagon restrictor plate.  Dozens of combinations are possible by Xmas...

We have a new line of RGB LED products coming out in the next few months that should be a lot of fun, they were inspired by the fighting market but we decided to make something more universal.

And the Ultimate Arcade Slip Ring will work great with any of these items!

[gamepimp]

Bryan, u say u will have lighted "bat" style joysticks soon? These would be similar to Happs Competition and Super joys right? I would be very interested to get my hands on something like that to go along w/ my illuminated buttons. Do u happen to have any pics of what something like that would look like?

[level42jeff]

Wow missed this thread.... Hmm where to start

First off, most threading on the Japanese style sticks is 6mm (I know that this is not what some other people use, but we try to stay compatible with the common standards so people can interchange parts easily)  
It is true that 6mm sizing makes the insertion of a 5mm LED difficult, it however can be done if one removes about 1mm total off the outside of the LED.  

However we have arriving in the next month a custom ball top that will easily allow a 5mm RGB LED, thread onto the 6mm threading, and is custom made at 1.5" with excellent light dispersion.  We also have a number of extra RGB LEDS that we'll probably be including as a complimentary give with the ball tops.  They were for a prototype run that is not going to happen of another product.

Now where would you put such a wonderful ball top?  It is true right now that we only offer the Paradise LED Joysticks in a complete built joystick.  We did this because of the excellent feed back we have on those sticks.  

Is that all? NO WAY!!!!
We have Seimitsu hollow shafts in long and short, so you can convert and LS-32, LS-32-01 or LS-32-02 to a lit top joystick.  All of these can be set to true 4 way action.

If you want to save some money, the same shaft will work on the Paradise Classic Arcade Zippyy(r) Joysticks.  Also easily set to 2,4, or 8 way action.

That's 5 options for lit joysticks.  
We also have the Titanium shaft for JLF joysticks that can be annodized to custom colors.  This joystick can be used on our Fight Stick 1 or Fight Stick 2 joysticks, which are identical to the low cost fight joysticks offered others.  Of note, the JLF's can also be set to 4 way action

So we are up to 8 options for lit joysticks...
I am starting to fee like an infomercial...
"is that all?"" "No it's not Bob, tell them what else they can get!!!"
People have requested Stainless shafts for the JLF which are arriving later this week or early next week in both the long and short shaft lengths for metal or wood panels.
combine 2 more shafts with the JLF and two fight sticks, you are up to a total of 14 combinations of LED joysticks....

"Did someone say American Style?"
Eurostick/Compact IL josytick hollow shafts also arrive with the JLF shafts.  These shafts should also work in Happ joysticks, as well as the IL....
I'm going to stop counting we are over 20 different options of LED joysticks

What else is possible???
On order and arriving before Xmas....

Hollow Wico shafts(yes with 1.5 inch balls, short and long Wico's), JLW hollow shafts (these will fit the 360 joysticks, but are not necessarily compatible without modification), Hollow shafts for over seas leaf switch joysticks we will have available as the Tru-Leaf(very similar to the Joysticks available at Mike's Arcade and GGG), Hollow shafts for the Pro-4 a joystick almost identical to a certain 4 way joystick offered by another vendor and...  

Good Grief what else do you want? Lit bat tops? Fine Fine be that way!!! also on the way  But probably not before Xmas, sorry.

So you can take you pick from a DIY Zippy with 2/4/8 way action, through the upgraded Seimitsu with a long shaft, to the American Style IL Eurostick, or even a JLF with a custom 4 8 or octagon restrictor plate.  Dozens of combinations are possible by Xmas...

We have a new line of RGB LED products coming out in the next few months that should be a lot of fun, they were inspired by the fighting market but we decided to make something more universal.

And the Ultimate Arcade Slip Ring will work great with any of these items!

Very confusing post, as I don't know enough about the joysticks to know what your really talking about. Basically what I get is that your planning to launch several options for RBG LED Joysticks.

I just picked up a package deal from GGG, but we can certainly see what you have to offer in the next coming weeks.

The only thing I would like to know is, what (of what you listed) would be the BEST! option, the Cadillac of LED Joysticks, assuming price really wasn't an option.

Right now, I just bough HAPP Comp's with Hallow Shaft and clear tops.

[Donkbaca]

If I can chime in:

It would be the JLF with the titanium shaft, or the seimitsu LS-32, those are the two most popular sticks for people that like fighting games

[armi0024]

Sorry... I was a bit tired, hadn't slept in 32 hours and trying to be coherent... Let me summarize
We have hollow shafts for
Seimitsu LS-32 family (Quality Japanese Fight stick, with 2/4/8 way options)
Zippyy joysticks (an imitation of the LS-32, but very reasonable feel)
Sanwa JLF Joysticks (These are the most popular joysticks for fighters, available in 4/8 way, octagon gate, or round restrictors)
Our own Fight Stick 1 and Fight Stick 2 (These are imitation JLF joysticks that other people have given trademark names to and sell here also)
IL Eurostick, and IL Compact Joysticks (These are the same as Happ Competition and Happ Super Joysticks, we will confirm the Happ fit when the shafts arrive later this week, Compacts and supers are 4/8 way)

In both the LS-32 and JLF shafts we have a long and short shaft to facilitate wood or metal panels.

We have our own brand of Paradise LED tops, shown here.  These come complete on the joystick ready to go.


We will be adding on hollow shafts for the following sticks
Pro-4 way, a dedicated 4 way joystick
Sanwa JLW's (These were the predessor for the JLF and the base of the U360's)
Wico 3.5 and 4 inch shafts

For ball tops we have the largest selection available.
Seimitsu LB-39 35mm Bubble tops
30mm Bubble tops
35mm Bubble tops
40mm Bubble tops
45mm Bubble tops
Paradise Ball Tops Shown here on a joystick:


We also have new tranlucent ball tops arriving, that I have not named yet.  These should be similar to other peoples white ball tops that allow light to pass through.  Here is a bad picture of a prototype, better pictures will be taken with the product when it arrives.
Without light

Lit up:


My comment about the LED family, we do a line of custom RGB lights for fight sticks, Seimitsu buttons and others.  We are working on a more universal system and have prototype we hope to release in the next two months.  The really nice thing about it will be the compatibility, not just with most buttons, but also with most controllers and the .100 headers for easy harnessing.

[yotsuya]

I like that translucent balltop, Bryan.  You might sell one to me before all is said and done!

[level42jeff]

Thanks for all your clarifications, this clears things up quite a bit. I might swap out my joy at a later date, or save up and build another arcade ! ... Just received my buttons the other day. Thanks Bryan (Missing 2 switches, but Susan is helping me out there) all else was great and I can't wait to begin construction !...

[nordemoniac]

Ah, input board... Well, I went with the IPAC4 and have been unequivocally happy with it. Can't speak to the other options, but there are a few.

If you're doing a 2 player, you could go IPAC2 and save a few $$

I saw the iPac2 but I'm pretty sure its 2 inputs short for me (I want to add the two pinball buttons on the side) What kinda of price difference is there between the 2 and 4? and where can I order them?

Sorry if this has been said before;

You could just map those pinball buttons to a couple of the player 1/player 2 buttons you are not using while playing pinball?
So that you actually have to buttons two the same input on the IPAC 2, just different locations on your control panel?

[cammada]

What is the dimension for Seimitsu LS-32, LS-32-01 and LS-32-02 shaft?

Are Seimitsu shaft same as Sanwa JLM-TM-8 shaft?

[SSJ4Vegeta81]

Good Grief what else do you want? Lit bat tops? Fine Fine be that way!!! also on the way  But probably not before Xmas, sorry.

I hope this is true. I've been looking for someone who sells these because I'm planning on making a lit 4-player cp and really want bat-tops that light but have had no luck.

Will they be bubble or clear like that translucent ball-top?  If you make translucent blue I will definitely buy 4, and a matching ball-top for a dedicated 4-way. Of course, if it's bubble I'll still buy them.

Oh, and I plan on using Happ sticks if that matters.

[Trip]

We have a design that's been in the works for a while, but we don't have the resources at the moment to start producing them.

But....for those who want to "roll your own", it's a little known fact that the Versa-Ball Mirrored Stainless Ball-Top Joystick Shaft has a hollow shaft.  The special Electric ICE style knob runs about the same cost as the stainless knob, so those who want an EI joystick to put a standard sized LED (RGB or mono) can purchase one of these and leave in the comments that you would like the EI style knob.  Couple it with the SlipWire™ Swiveling Interconnect and you'll be all set.

RandyT

Are you still doing this or is there anyway possible to get the completed version?  If you got time and are ok with it, I would really like to talk to you off the forum in whatever communication method is most convenient for you.  I got a whole wad of stuff I would like to order from you when it becomes available and want to ask some questions.


Thanks

[Tony555]

That translucent ball top looks awesome. I couldn't see them on Paradise Arcade Yet??

Would it be possible to buy the Paradise Arcade LED Joystick and throw on a translucent ball top and swap out the coloured LED with a IL-lumination RGB 5VDC LED???...All from Paradise!!!

Does this seem cheaper and easier than buying a standard joystick, a $15 hollow shaft, a balltop and an RGB LED??

[Tony555]

Ok...I now take back my post above...it won't be cheaper  

Here are the prices from Paradise Arcade (Joystick and hollow shaft)

Classic Arcade Joystick, Zippyy (TM) $8.95
Long Seimitsu or Zippyy(TM) Stainless Steel Hollow Joystick Shaft $15.00

But...I can't find the AWESOME white translucent balltop (pictured on previous page)??

Also...what RGB LED can you use to fit in these shafts/balltops???

[Tony555]

So does anyone know what if Paradise Arcade are selling the translucent ball tops that are pictured above?

and...which RGB LEDs could be used?

[gamepimp]

Good Grief what else do you want? Lit bat tops? Fine Fine be that way!!! also on the way  But probably not before Xmas, sorry.

Any word on these?

[armi0024]

 Shafts arrive next week, LEDs arrive today or tomorrow!

[gamepimp]

Plz post some pics when u have them avail. Thx!

[Garebear911]

I messaged the Paradise Arcade people quite a few days ago and still haven't gotten a response. Wondering about a 3" green/light up trackball and the lit bat tops previously mentioned. Also wondering about their return policy and average ship time to east coast u.s.

[armi0024]

Sorry crazy weekend at Hawaii Kon! We build all lit sticks and they are about a one week build now. Rgb shafts are at fedex in Honolulu now!

All shipments go 3-4 day priority mail.

[Garebear911]

So only white 3" trackballs? Also not sure if you're talking about the light up bat tops or something else.

Thanks

[Trip]

I need help finding a thread.  There was a  thread I came across that showed how to wire an RGB led in a hollow joystick using the 4 wire plugs.  It showed the entire setup and discussed how he had to twist the 4 wires to get it all to fit in the shaft and had lots of good pics.  I can find similar threads, but not the one that showed the entire setup pulled from the shaft and exposed.

Anyone know which thread I am talking about?

[armi0024]

Everything is in... we just need to find those 100 ball tops now!
https://www.youtube.com/v/BS4KF0mZSPg

[Brian74]

Please let us know when they can be ordered. I need 2!!

[Trip]

Answered my own question, finally found it with the help of google site searching

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=52509.0

Brian, will yours be like this with the quick disconnect or are you using the slip rings?  Can you buy yours in JLF form without the balltop right now?

[Tony555]

Everything is in... we just need to find those 100 ball tops now!
https://www.youtube.com/v/BS4KF0mZSPg

Thanks for letting us know...

Are the LED bat tops any closer? Thanks

[Tony555]

Am I missing somnething here?? Has any of this stuff gone on sale at Paradise yet??

[Brian74]

I dont know, I keep checking there website and it has not been updated with any of these yet.

[armi0024]

When we opened the order of translucent ball tops they were white, not translucent..... the first samples were perfect so we are waiting for new ones to arrive!  I would expect in 5-10 days.... we hope, we are sitting on lots of sticks and LEDs.

[Brian74]

The wait is killing me  lol

[armi0024]

Killing you.... we have 600 shafts, 1000 LEDs and no damn ball tops lol!

[kalars123]

I've got ball tops
Love the new sticks armi

[armi0024]

haha, nice...
The new RGB's have a custom 10mm threading to fit the 5mm rgb led.
-Bryan

[kalars123]

you let me know when you get those rgb led's in because I want a couple for my sticks, you should also look into led lighting for bat-tops they might not sell like gang buster's but i'd buy a set

[Mysterioii]

Yeah I'd consider that too.

[Brian74]

Well put me down for 2 when they show up!

[Brian74]

Have we gotten any farther on this?

[armi0024]

We have built the sticks and are waiting for the tops....

Oh and we did get some really nice buttons in (forgive the camera phone picture quality):

[Nephasth]

Oh and we did get some really nice buttons in (forgive the camera phone picture quality):

Can they do the "halo" button combination?

[Mysterioii]

Will the mag-stik plus hollow shafts be available in "regular" and "long" lengths or just the standard length?  Just wondering, since the ones they come with are a bit stubby and I'm planning to mount mine from the bottom of a 3/4" panel.  A little extra length would be awesome.

Whatever the answer to that is, please earmark two of the mag-stik shafts, two RGB leds and two balltops for me if supplies are indeed limited.  Are the slip ring assemblies considered a must for this?  I plan on picking up some translucent buttons from you too, just waiting to place a single order so I can snag the free shipping....   

That button in your last picture, is that an IL/Happ style button?  Can't see the threads or microswitch.

Thanks!

[armi0024]

Nep, they are not interchangeable with our current stock, these work in panels up to 1" but are not the IL long barrel we currently have in stock.  We will have more options in the future.

Will the mag-stik plus hollow shafts be available in "regular" and "long" lengths or just the standard length?  Just wondering, since the ones they come with are a bit stubby and I'm planning to mount mine from the bottom of a 3/4" panel.  A little extra length would be awesome.

Whatever the answer to that is, please earmark two of the mag-stik shafts, two RGB leds and two balltops for me if supplies are indeed limited.  Are the slip ring assemblies considered a must for this?  I plan on picking up some translucent buttons from you too, just waiting to place a single order so I can snag the free shipping....   

That button in your last picture, is that an IL/Happ style button?  Can't see the threads or microswitch.

Thanks!

I can measure the tops but these are based on the longer Ultimarc ball top shafts.  I only have about 20 of the Mag Stik shafts and they were not cheap so final price on those will probably be a little more than the others at about 20 each, plus led, ball top, etc.  They are stainless, but between the low quantity and massive amount of material, these cost me twice what the other shafts did.  If they sell out quickly I will restock them.  However it's a bit silly to stock shafts for a stick only someone else carries....

As far as the buttons go, these are not "IL/Happ style".... They are true IL buttons, from the factory molds.  Again crappy cell phone picture for now, but IL really set the standard in arcade control quality so we wanted to work with them specifically on producing these buttons
 

[Brian74]

Well the buttons look sweet.. Now what do I do with the 25 clear ones I already bought from you, or I should say the gf did. They are still in the box they were shipped in.

[armi0024]

a) Build two kick ass mame machines so you can have more friends play

b) return and exchange the buttons...

[spkywlnt73]

So will you eventually have clear ball tops in stock for those RGBs? I'd love to see how those look lit up. I like the white ball tops, they would just look out of place with my IL translucent buttons though. Love the new products BTW! Keep them coming!

[armi0024]

we already have some clears in hand, we had samples done and will be selling some off....

[Mysterioii]

Well the buttons look sweet.. Now what do I do with the 25 clear ones I already bought from you, or I should say the gf did. They are still in the box they were shipped in.

If they're the IL translucent ones that normally sell for $2.75 then if for some reason you don't want to return them to him I'll give ya $2.25 each for 'em if you cover the shipping...   

[jace055]

I am starting over on my control panel after 6 years in the making. I have also been out of the scene for a while so I have a few questions.

I want all RGB controls (buttons, joysticks, trackball). I also want them to have the frosted white look while off.  The joysticks seem to be the hardest item to find. I have the mag stick plus sticks now and I am happy with them. 

Are the ball tops going to be available in the frosted white look?
Will it be the same frosted white as the new push buttons posted above?

If indeed you have the shafts for the mag stick plus with the frosted ball top and an RGB LED I would be very interested.

[Brian74]

We have built the sticks and are waiting for the tops....

Oh and we did get some really nice buttons in (forgive the camera phone picture quality):

What the chance of a video with the RGB led?

[AGarv]

My guess is that there is good demand for matching white rgb capable pushbuttons, joysticks, and trackballs. Bat tops would be the real clincher - most of us 90s arcade folks seem not too keen on all these ball tops.  Most sf2 and mk arcade memories were made bat top in hand!

[Tony555]

I would LOVE an illuminated Bat Top. I have a feeling Paradise Arcade were going to get some in??? Can Paradise confirm this???

There is a guy called Purplearms who made his own illuminated bat top (see photo below).
He followed a tutorial on how to make Frosted Guitar Hero Keys.

Here is the tutorial he followed: http://www.instructables.com/id/Guitar-Hero-Hacks-Key-Molding/

Here is the thread where he explains his creation: http://shoryuken.com/forum/index.php?threads/my-dual-pcb-360-ps3-with-button-light-up-mod.70805/page-2

Photo of bat tops:

[armi0024]

Bat tops are up before 2013

[jace055]

Bat tops are up before 2013

I know the data on the bat tops is limited at this point. But, are the bat tops going fit on the same shaft as the ball top for those of us who don't want to wait so we can do a panel and change them out later?

Please post when the mag stick plus shafts are available.  I will buy 4 with RGB LEDs and white translucent ball tops today.

[armi0024]

We have established standard threading for our RGB items.  The ball tops and battops will all be compatible with the RGB or regular sticks (regular sticks will require a small adapter that threads into the top).

[AGarv]

I would LOVE an illuminated Bat Top. I have a feeling Paradise Arcade were going to get some in??? Can Paradise confirm this???

There is a guy called Purplearms who made his own illuminated bat top (see photo below).
He followed a tutorial on how to make Frosted Guitar Hero Keys.

Here is the tutorial he followed: http://www.instructables.com/id/Guitar-Hero-Hacks-Key-Molding/

Here is the thread where he explains his creation: http://shoryuken.com/forum/index.php?threads/my-dual-pcb-360-ps3-with-button-light-up-mod.70805/page-2

Photo of bat tops:

Wow, nice find Tony!  Looks like a lot of work for an accent decoration, but it might just be worth it

[Tony555]

Here is a picture of the bat top illuminated...looks COOL

[butteroj]

Loving the ease of use of your new pre-wired 3mm leds Brian!

[Tony555]

Hi ParadiseArcade. Are the RGB joysticks and balltops any closer to being available???

[armi0024]

LEDs in
Sticks in
Balltops arrive, 5/14

[Brian74]

I need 2!

[Mysterioii]

Yep me too... itchin' to place an order...   

[alfonzotan]

LEDs in
Sticks in
Balltops arrive, 5/14

Pricing?

[jace055]

I need 4 Magstik+ shafts, complete with balls and LEDs.  I will also be getting bat tops later.

[armi0024]

1 million dollars a shaft
For now they will be sold in kits:
Stainless Shaft
Ball Top
LED

We will also allow for a slip ring in the kit.

Here is what I am thinking with pricing....
Happ/IL or Sanwa will be 27.50 without slip ring, 37.50 with
Mag Sticks will be 32.50 without the slip ring, 42.50 with.

The ball top threading is custom to allow for a 5mm LED so these will need to be used with the ball tops in the kit.  I apologize for the MagStick pricing but we paid significantly more for those shafts.

[Nephasth]

If only you had a lightable balltop that looked good with my button combo...

[armi0024]

If only.... Black shaft with a white top....

[Nephasth]

I might try lighting my extra smoke bubble balltop to see how that looks...

[jace055]

1 million dollars a shaft

...

I apologize for the MagStick pricing but we paid significantly more for those shafts.

I knew it was going to cost me. No worries.
I would, however, love to see pictures of some balls when they arrive.

[armi0024]

Susan told me to change this to...
I will be posting "pictures of my balls later", after DHL comes

[Mysterioii]

So those kits are going up on the site for purchase tonight?   

[armi0024]

As long at the balls arrive and look good, yes...  but remember, tonight here is 12pm est

[jace055]

I can't remember ever waiting like this for someone to post pictures of their balls.

I'm not saying I haven't waited before, I'm saying I can't remember.

[yotsuya]

I can't remember ever waiting like this for someone to post pictures of their balls.

I'm not saying I haven't waited before, I'm saying I can't remember.

The Roofies usually have that effect.

[armi0024]

And everyone thought it was just macadamia nuts in the chocolate we send...

[yotsuya]

And everyone thought it was just macadamia nuts in the chocolate we send...

 

[armi0024]

My balls arrived!!!


So I thought I would introduce my shafts, balls and few other objects to everyone!

[armi0024]

There are 4 shafts shown... from left to right:
1) Mag-Stik Plus Shafts - we only have 10 of these available
2) IL/Happ Shaft 1-we have 100 of these in stock (10mm shaft, feels great)
3) IL/Happ Shaft 2-we have 100 of these in stock(larger shaft to match original dustwasher)
4) Sanwa JLF Shafts


There are two balls we have in stock, the red IS NOT transparent.  There are some extras from Wolfeel's Wico shafts.


We also got in the new LED lighting.  These are great... set up with two sets of .100 pins so you can run them under current or voltage control.  They go OUTSIDE the buttons and will fit any Sanwa, Seimitsu, IL, or Happ 30mm or 1 1/8" button.  We also have a 24mm ring for smaller buttons.


And.... we decided to have our own milky white RGB buttons done, which will work with our original ILlumination boards or the new RGB rings.

[jace055]

So the magstick ultra shafts fit the mag-stick plus joystick, right? The "ultra" is throwing me off and I haven't taken my sticks apart in years to know what they look like.

How do I order?

Thanks

[armi0024]

Haha, brain fart, all corrected, yes I meant plus... but wouldn't ultra be a better name

 

The movie shows a shaft installed in a Mag-Stik Plus.  We have three, one graciously donated by Andy when I told him we were working on this project, and two more we picked up from Arcade in a Box when they shut down.  We will be selling the ones we bought from Arcade in a Box, and hmmmm.... maybe we'll shoot the other half way around the world back to Andy

[jace055]

Great!  How and when can we order?

[yotsuya]

Your balls and rings just kicked my wallet in the nuts! 

[Nephasth]

Those new button LEDs look SWEET!

Only one concern: light bleeding. (But then again, that may only be an issue on metal CPs)

[Mysterioii]

Please don't forget that you told me in PM that you'd hold a couple of the mag stik plus shafts...     With only 10 available I thought I'd mention it again...   

[jace055]

I want to give you money right now for another 4.

[alfonzotan]

So are the only balls (uh huh huh) available for these shafts (heh heh heh) the ones shown above?

Be nice if I could get matching ball (uh huh huh huh huh) styles with the one I already have on my CP (this one):

http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/en/seimitsu-35mm-bubble-balltops/208-seimitsu-lb-39-blue-bubble-top.html

[arzoo]

Only one concern: light bleeding. (But then again, that may only be an issue on metal CPs)

I was wondering the same thing - even with a wood cp I expect you might see a faint glow on any unlit button near an illuminated button. But you would most likely need to be in a dark room to notice.

[armi0024]

In order to house 5mm leds we decided to make custom balltops.  While doing them in colors may be in the future, RGB LEDs don't show as well through colored plastics.  A blue top like that acts as a very nice filter that does not allow red light to pass through.  I'm happy to put our leds alone up for sale and people can try getting the 5mm led up into the bubble top, but it will be tight

In regards to light bleeding.... Nep had a great idea, and we will be selling all light rings with shrink tubing included.

[alfonzotan]

In order to house 5mm leds we decided to make custom balltops.  While doing them in colors may be in the future, RGB LEDs don't show as well through colored plastics.  A blue top like that acts as a very nice filter that does not allow red light to pass through.  I'm happy to put our leds alone up for sale and people can try getting the 5mm led up into the bubble top, but it will be tight

In regards to light bleeding.... Nep had a great idea, and we will be selling all light rings with shrink tubing included.

Maybe I missed this above, but what size balls (huh huh huh--sorry, but it's really hard--heh heh heh--to stop doing this) are those shafts turned for?

[armi0024]

The ball tops are 1.5", made the same size as original Wico Ball tops

[Tony555]

Do you plan on selling a Bat Top version any time soon??

[Brian74]

Im trying to decide what to do. I have these buttons http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/en/il-translucent-buttons/275-clear-il-translucent-pushbutton-psl-l.html So is there no clear balltops that I can put RGB leds in to match my buttons?

[armi0024]

Define soon with the bat top..... I would say within a year there will be a bat top available, but no idea where within that time frame.

We do have a limited number of clear tops we will be putting up for sale, but a very limited batch.

We are still feeling out where people want to go with some of this.  Slik Stick is the only place that made these commercially available, so balltops, colors etc still need to be figured out for long term options.

[jace055]

I see the JLF and IL kits made it to the website but I don't see the Magstik. Any idea when I can order some sweet RGB goodness for my Magstik?

[Brian74]

ok, so i am in the dark when it comes to deciding what joystick to get. I have a 3/4 mdf cp, I play all kinds of games. Which one to get? 

[armi0024]

We may do a run of Seimitsu long and short, as well as JLW shafts as well.

[Nephasth]

We may do a run of Seimitsu long and short, as well as JLW shafts as well.

 

[armi0024]

I need to line up the shafts for order.  If Andy doesn't want to do the RGB's for the Mag Stick we will run more for sale also.  If he does, they will at least be available though his site.

[AlienInferno]

Hint Hint...Make some JLW shafts...

[AGarv]

There are 4 shafts shown... from left to right:
1) Mag-Stik Plus Shafts - we only have 10 of these available
2) IL/Happ Shaft 1-we have 100 of these in stock (10mm shaft, feels great)
3) IL/Happ Shaft 2-we have 100 of these in stock(larger shaft to match original dustwasher)
4) Sanwa JLF Shafts

_1Gbg/T7GJzvb2QeI/AAAAAAAAF78/Qzsnvooj_6M/s767/IMG_8985.JPG[/img]

Wow, so #3 fits Happ Competition bases?  And in the near future you will have bat tops available?!  Glowing Competitions?!  Look for a matched button/shaft/bat top/3" trackball order from me once everything comes in.

[armi0024]

Wow, so #3 fits Happ Competition bases?  And in the near future you will have bat tops available?!  Glowing Competitions?!  Look for a matched button/shaft/bat top/3" trackball order from me once everything comes in.

Button- Done
Shaft- shown here
Bat top, later this year early next
3" trackball - done just waiting to finish light engine

[Brian74]

So my understanding is this is just a upgrade kit? You do not have any premade ones like the other led joysticks you have?

[AGarv]

Wow, so #3 fits Happ Competition bases?  And in the near future you will have bat tops available?!  Glowing Competitions?!  Look for a matched button/shaft/bat top/3" trackball order from me once everything comes in.

Button- Done
Shaft- shown here
Bat top, later this year early next
3" trackball - done just waiting to finish light engine

Armi, do you have a non-illuminating bat top that will fit the #3 joystick shaft (fits Happ Competition) currently (e.g. the jlf bat tops you have on sale)?  Thanks!

[armi0024]

JLW bat tops will fit any of these shafts...

[mcseforsale]

Bump to subscribe...

AJ

[buttonmad]

Hello. I wanted an illuminated ball-top for a long time and I was very happy to find this thread. However a Mag-stik-plus plus from the one store and the RGB kit from the other store, with both shipping costs, each come out to $50. Do I really want to drop $100 for a single joystick? Hard to say no and hard to say yes. I think someone asked earlier but are there any future plans that allow me to purchase everything in one go and save some cash? Thanks.

[Trip]

Bryan, I am going to send you an email.  I want to purchase some things you have for sale in a kit, without the rest of the kit if that is possible.

[Mysterioii]

Hello. I wanted an illuminated ball-top for a long time and I was very happy to find this thread. However a Mag-stik-plus plus from the one store and the RGB kit from the other store, with both shipping costs, each come out to $50. Do I really want to drop $100 for a single joystick? Hard to say no and hard to say yes. I think someone asked earlier but are there any future plans that allow me to purchase everything in one go and save some cash? Thanks.

It's a moot point for the time being since the Mag-stik plus shafts are sold out for now.... However notice Bryan's post above:

I need to line up the shafts for order.  If Andy doesn't want to do the RGB's for the Mag Stick we will run more for sale also.  If he does, they will at least be available though his site.

Andy = Andy at Ultimarc = The guy that sells Mag-stik pluses.  So basically Bryan is working with him to see if he wants to sell these direct from Ultimarc...  If so, you should be able to get everything there (eventually), and if not, Bryan will apparently have more of the shafts for sale at his own store (eventually).   

[Brian74]

Im interested in a kit of some sort too!

[Ravenger]

Would it be possible to use those Mag-Stik hollow shafts to help add a fire button to the stick, via a modified balltop? I'd love to have a top fire button for Battlezone -it's my favourite arcade game. It's awkward using a control panel button for firing if you've got the game setup to use both joysticks, like the arcade.

[armi0024]

Our regular hollow shafts can be used to add topfire buttons to JLF, Seimitsu, Happ, or Zippyy joysticks

[Mysterioii]

I apologize if this is mentioned elsewhere, but does anyone know the right size threads one would tap to fit these shafts if you wanted to make a custom top? 

[armi0024]

regular japanese threading is 6mm x 1mm, Our regular LED tops are the same, our RGB tops are 10mm x 1.5mm threading.

[Brian74]

I have asked this before, but never got a answer. Is there a full kit ready to go that I can get?

[armi0024]

A full kit including joystick?

[Brian74]

Yeah, idk what stick to get. I think the ones I have now are happ comps, but Im not sure. Just looking for a good overall stick.

[uteftCafnulty]

I have a used zhp knob ill give it to you for 35 shipped the leather on it is a bit worn all you need to do is find a oem knob and pull out the illuminated directional gear tab with the wire and pass the wire thru the zhp knob then a little glue your all set..

[mcseforsale]

Yeah, that would be cool.  Like Happ Comp with a kit, etc.  Then, I can use my sticks in another cab.

AJ

A full kit including joystick?

[armi0024]

I can look into doing IL joysticks.... very possible

[jace055]

What is the Voltage of the RGB LED?  I am going to hook them up to a 5v line until I get a controller and I don't want to release the magic blue smoke.

[armi0024]

Ok, we need to restock on a few joysticks....
Is there any interest in:
Magstick RGB shafts
JLW hollow shafts
JLW RGB shafts...

Or anything else.... speak now or forever want the stick you can't have

[Brian74]

I need two mag stick plus

[AlienInferno]

I'd be interested in one of these two:

JLW hollow shafts
JLW RGB shafts

As long as it ends with me having a RGB lit balltop.

[armi0024]

The JLW is one of my favorite sticks.... They are not very popular anymore, but I may have to cave and do those just so I can have them!  I actually have all the drawings done and quotes on them, I just never pull the trigger.... very very tempting!

[darthpaul]

I need two mag stick plus

What he said, +1.

[RetroACTIVE]

Interested in JLW hollow shafts.

[RetroBorg]

Would be interested in four JLW RGBs.

[Nephasth]

Even though I have no immediate use for them, I'd probably pick up a couple hollow JLW shafts...

[MacGyver]

You can put me down for 2 JLW hollow shafts, hell I'd love a package deal: the shafts, an RGB LEDs in each of them, with the spin-free thingys.      Seriously, though, I've bought things from you before, I trust you, put the pre-order up already. 
Just let me know the ETA when you take my money.

[jomccutcheon]

Need 2 illuminated RGB Battop joysticks.
Any idea on when these will be available?
Would buy as a kit or as a complete set tops and sticks/ shafts.
thanks

[jace055]

What is the Voltage of the RGB LED?  I am going to hook them up to a 5v line until I get a controller and I don't want to release the magic blue smoke.

Armi,

Are these LEDs rated for 5v or do they need resistors to limit current? I'd hate to smoke one.

[armi0024]

Current limiting, I'll check on the 5 volt resistance Tuesday or Wednesday...

[MacGyver]

Is there an ETA on a "Short JLW RGB Shaft Kit w/ Slip Ring"?

I'm about 2 weeks away from needing to decide if I'm going to cut my panel for my current JLFs or if I should cut it for JLWs, I'll only cut JLWs if I can have the same lighting options I have with my JLFs, which means my desire to buy a certain new model of JLW pretty much depends on whether or not you intend to stock hollow JLW shafts again.    If you tell me that you are going to be stocking them, I'll trust you, and buy the JLWs, and live without the lighting until you have them available, but if you say you are not going to bother with it, I can forget about the JLWs. (my whole panel is about lighting and not having lighted joysticks is a deal breaker).  I can wait for you to stock them if I know it's a sure thing, but since you're the only source, the buck stops with you.  Only you know if they will ever be available again.

[Mysterioii]

which means my desire to buy a certain new model of JLW pretty much depends on whether or not you intend to stock hollow JLW shafts again.   

Haha I know exactly which "certain new model" you're referring to...      But I think it serves best to be direct here.  Andy's product is going to spark an interest in JLW's so I think Bryan will enjoy a related spike in interest in JLW hollow shafts...  There's likely several people on this board interested in both auto-switching 4-to-8-way sticks and lighting 'em up.  I think Andy's product is good for Bryan, and should encourage him to have some JLW shafts made.

Now, I'm sitting on two mag-stik pluses still in the boxes and hollow shafts to match, and now I have to decide if I want to stick with those or switch to Andy's sticks....  I have so little free time though I doubt I'll even get to my CP rebuild until next year...   

[armi0024]

JLW's hollow shafts will become available in the next 1-2 months
2/4/8 way autoswitching joystick in the next 6, We have a nice prototype but we are focusing efforts on 4 other products before we release this.

[MacGyver]