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Getting started, first question
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cheesepile:
First day here, and had a quick question to get started... I have 2 cabinets, Astro Blaster and a cocktail cabinet of Defender. Is it typically cheaper to alter an existing cabinet or buy a pre-built or kit? I don't have any parts I could use, and it seems that I would have to make a lot of modifications to get a wide variety of games to work (new screen, joystick, many more buttons, and additional speakers are what first come to mind).

Thanks for any help in advance!

 -Jason
GregD:
It is usually going to be cheaper to modify an existing cabinet that has a working monitor and controls.  You will need a way to interface your pc to the arcade monitor like an arcade vga card.  A lot really depends on the condition of the cabinet too.  Kits are expensive and usually built of melamime or particle board.  You would need to purchase all controls and monitor for the kit.  There are many factors that go into it though.
kahlid74:
Welcome!  It really depends on what your end game goal is.  In most cases an empty Arcade cabinet shell is a better buy (cheaper) at $50-75 bucks than the MDF purchased to make said cabinet.  You should be mindful however that trying to make a 4 player cab out of some 1/2 player cabs can be tough/tricky.

I started with an existing cab which I bought for $100 bucks with double working coin doors.  It's a great way to start cause then you can go cheap if you want with a tv and any type of computer/control panel layout.
CheffoJeffo:
Also bear in mind that killing a working classic for MAME is still frowned upon by some of the old folks ...  ;)
ark_ader:

--- Quote from: CheffoJeffo on March 29, 2012, 02:27:54 pm ---Also bear in mind that killing a working classic for MAME is still frowned upon by some of the old folks ...  ;)

--- End quote ---

I'm older than Jeff - and I say Mame that original with with extreme prejudice.  :applaud:
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