Hi.
I have an older full size arcade.
Initially I purchased a Pandora's Key that plugged into the JAMMA harness.
Unfortunately the 20" CRT had several issues that were not resolved by a full cap kit replacement, so I've decided to replace the CRT with an LCD.
Since I'm doing that, I've decided to go ahead and go the rest of the way and upgrade the control panel and switch from the Pandora's Key to a computer running MAME.
I already have a J-PAC, so I am planning on using it to connect to the JAMMA harness and just ignore the video ports on the J-PAC and plug directly into the monitor from the computer.
My first decision is the monitor replacement. As mentioned, a 19" CRT was previously used, but it was mounted on a frame with a cardboard bezel, so there is more room available. It looks like a size up to 30" would fit, although I will have to find some way to mount it.
My main goal is to play the classic arcade games, although I'd rather not limit it if possible.
I know the classic arcade games are mostly 4:3 but since they are difficult to find now and can't be found larger than 19", I was thinking about a monitor with a wider display and have it convert to 4:3 for those older games.
That, of course, means I'd need a size larger than 19" to display those games at the same size as the previous CRT.
Having said all of the above, could anyone help with the things I should be looking for and good options?
I assume low response time (5ms or lower); anything else I should be looking for?
I was hoping not to spend more than $200-$300 on the monitor.
After that decision I will have to decide on the PC. For money constraint concerns, I might get something lower spec'd that will play the older arcade games and upgrade later.
For the monitor, however, I was hoping to get something that I wouldn't need to upgrade for awhile, as another upgrade would be more difficult after I put in a new mounting solution, etc.
Sorry for the long post, just trying to give enough information.
I know I have a lot of work ahead - monitor replacement, MAME setup, controller board replacement, etc.
With the knowledge here I'm hoping to make it as painless as possible.
TIA.