Heading out to buy a cabinet this weeked... help!

[Skribbles]

To put it simply, what do I need to know?

I plan on putting in Mame pc and eventually making a custom control set but for now, I just want to get it up and running then go from there. On to the questions:

1) Are there any other arcades besides JAMMA? I live in Manitoba (Canada) and will be buying locally if that makes a difference.
2) Is a J-Pac required to connect the original controls to a PC (assuming that it is a JAMMA)? If so, is there a preferred retailer that is trusted by the folks here?
  -If not, how difficult is it to wire everything up myself? (link to instructions would be awesome!)
3) What should I be looking for in the cabinet (outside of the structure/condition)? Will I be able to check to see if the controls/monitor work with the game functioning?
4) Speakers... Is my best bet removing the old speakers and replacing them with some computer speakers/sub?
5) Any other tips?

Thanks. I can see this new hobby taking up waaaay to much of my time.

[Skribbles]

 

[jennifer]

 
       Original cabs are fun to, Maybe see what the cab is before planning It"s demise.