Last time I built a cab (10 years ago), I threw my wallet at the problem and bought 2 U360s and a bunch of "classic" Happ-style buttons from Ultimarc. It worked fine, but I wasn't thrilled with it. I used the built-in encoder in the U360 and it worked fine.
I mainly play fighting games and beat-em ups, so I'm mainly looking for an 8-way joystick that feels clicky (think SFII), and good buttons.
Are the "zero delay" USB encoders on Amazon any good? If so, this set of two would certainly get me there with enough inputs:
https://www.amazon.com/Easyget-Controller-Joystick-Raspberry-RetroPie/dp/B01FZ6QVWO/Or should I opt for an I-PAC2 or similar? I would like to have at least 25 inputs (10 per side for joystick and buttons, 1P and 2P start, 1P and 2P coin, and an ESC button).
I will not have a trackball/spinner on this cab.
If there's something to go to or stay away from, whether it's a vendor or a product, please let me know!