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Build Or Buy? HELP!!
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shodokan123:
Alright... here is my situation

I want to have a cabinet but i dont know if i should buy a pre made kit or if i should build it completley my self

What i have availble to me:
Table saw
miter saw
circular saw
jigsaw
power drill
router
27" TV with svideo
2x happ competition joysticks
Ps2
computer
dreamcast
2xplaystation pad a-series PCB
2x dreamcast converter
500-700$

I want to build this so it runs on a computer, dreamcast and ps2.

My main interest is what would be the most cost efficient way to do this?

I am looking to have custom artwork, black bezel, coin door, etc...

If i were to build one it would be a lucid style one... plainly put because it is the most fighter orientated looking i have seen.

What's your opinion? Buy a kit from www.mameroom.com / www.custom-arcade.com

or

build my own...

my friend and i might be starting a business with making cabinets... so i am leaning twords building it... i just really dont want to ---fudgesicle--- it up and lose 180$ in wood.

HELP


Btw, the option of buying a used one and refurbishing it is not an option.
SteveJ34:
Well, if u are contemplating doing another for phun and/or profit then build. Its really not as difficult as some may make it seem.

Measure thrice, cut once.

A few 4x8 sheets of MDF will cost much less than $180....more like $50-60 though that will not produce furniture finish look.
Timoe:
Build build build

You will be much happier

Plan on taking a long time and enjoying the design/build experience.
pacmod:
I would have to agree.  I just recently finished my 1st Lusid style arcade and other than the time, it was not that big of deal.  I built a cocktail and bartop previously so building this was as easy as following instructions and cutting.  The one big problem is all the dust MDF creates when you cut it.  IT GOES EVERYWHERE!  There still isn't anything better than having something you built with your own hands and telling people that you scratch built it. Email me and I can send you things that you need to be careful of and some really helpful links to Lusid style websites I used.
tommy:
Theres nothing like building your own cabinet and customizing it exactly the way you like.

Theres really no point in buying a cabinet if the orginal side art isn't perfect and something you can live with. IMO
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