49-ways and other questions

[DaveMMR]

So, I've decided to go with full swappable panels instead of modular for simplicity's sake.  I was doing some joystick comparison when I read about the 49-ways (and their versatility).  After checking all the threads on that joystick, plus a complete reading of Randy's site, I still have a few questions:

1. Any news on the new 49-ways coming to GroovyGameGear.com?  I read the thread where it was announced, but I'm just curious to see if there's been any developments.  I'm not in a complete hurry, by the way, as I'm still at least a good month before the cabinet itself is finished.

2. Any major difference between the GP-Wiz49 Eco and the GP-Wiz49 Max? 

3. Since I may want to have one panel with regular microswitch joysticks down the road, will I need to use a different encoder, or can I get it to work with the GP-Wiz49?

Thanks in advance.

PS - I wish I didn't stumble across those Electric Ice Buttons and RGB Leds.     I'm going to have to add a few more coins to the budget - they're kind of irresistable.

[KenToad]

Hey Dave,

  Not sure what you mean by full swappable instead of modular, but I've written a Retroblast! review of the 49-way setup and built a bartop with modular panels.  One of the panels, naturally has the 49-way joysticks, but they all use the Groovy Game Gear interfaces.  No differences between the Max and Eco's except how you connect the wires (and maybe number of inputs, can't remember).  Functionally, at any rate, they should be the same.  If you want to read some more, here are a couple of links:

Retroblast! Review:
  http://www.retroblast.com/reviews/49-way.html

My Bartop thread (not much useful info, really )
  http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=37665.0

I can't comment on the new 49 way announcement, but have to say that the Happ 49-way with Randy's replacement grommet is an excellent choice right now. 

Hope that helps and good luck.   

Ian

[DaveMMR]

Thanks Ken - I actually did read your reviews, which I found enjoyable and informative, as part of the research.  I'm a little concerned about "fighter" performance, but I'm not very good at them with any joystick anyhow. 

I didn't see the other link though, I'll check it out.  Thanks.

If I find myself ahead of schedule and want to wrap things up, I'll probably go the Happ's route with the replacement grommet.

Not sure what you mean by full swappable instead of modular

I was going to do a modular setup, (ala "Doc's Modular Mame" project) that would have individual controls on seperate, partial panels that can be mixed and matched to fit the game, but decided to just swap full, 25-inch panels instead for more simplicity. 

EDIT: I love the bartop!  You've already given me an idea for my next project if and when I finish the first!

[KenToad]

Ahhhh, now I understand about the swappable vs. modular bit.  Thanks for reminding me of that amazing work and thanks for checking out my bartop.  I'm looking forward to seeing your work in Project Announcements soon.

  ,
Ian