Super Noob

[rnw0024]

Alright.  I've wanted to build a cabinet for a long time, but you know how these things are, but Im gonna do it this time, but I want to start on the right foot and not make any unneeded purchases, so I've got a few questions.

I want to focus mainly on 2-D fighters, so the 49-way stick the way to go?
and as far as controls are concerned, is it better to buy or build?

Should I use a low end comp from a garage sale, or my original XBox, already fitted with MAME and other emus?

Input is appreciated.

[Kaytrim]

If you main focus is the 2-D fighters don't bother with a 49-way unless you want to play the old 4-way clasics without an extra stick on the CP.  If you are going  strictly 2-D fighters go with a Happ Competition stick or a Sanwa JLF.  There is a big difference in they way these two sticks work and it is a matter of prefference.  I have both sticks and am warming up to the Sanwa for more accurate control for specials.

The Sanwa is more expensive then the Happ, nearly 3x the price depending on the source.  They have a shorter throw and lighter spring.  These are made in Japan and are installed in most of their machines (candy cabs).  They will need to be top mounted if you are using wood as these are meant for a metal panel.  You can also get an octagonal gate to help with your accuracy.

The Happ sticks are designed for wood panels and are what were in most American cabinets.  With the stronger spring and wider movement it is good for general use.  These are also built real rugged so you can slam them around without doing any damage.

Finally if you are going to play any of the clasic 4-way games the 49-way or Ultimarc U360 are good general purpose sticks if you want only one.  Otherwise use one of the options stated above and get a dedicated 4-way for the classics.

TTFN
Kaytrim

[Kajoq]

If you're going for 2-d fighters, I personally suggest Sanwa joysticks.  They might take you a while to get fully used to, but they play so smooth it makes up for it.

I would also suggest you try getting a cheap actual PC to use instead of the Xbox because there are a lot of very good Doujin developed 2d fighters for PC that would be great additions.

Melty Blood, Akatsuki Blitzkampf, Eternal Fighter Zero.... And lots of similarly developed shmups like Perfect Cherry blossom.

I'm really looking forward to having all of these games on my cab when I get it up and running in the next couple weeks

[vidmouse]

Buy or Build? -- Depends on what you feel comfortable doing -- knowing that you will get more comfort the more you try to build.  Me, I would ALWAYS build given the choice.
In fact, the fun is in the building (and adding on) than the playing half the time.
Just plan it out ahead of time and know what you want -- lurk these forums for awhile, get some good ideas.

Joysticks -- I bet for the 2-d fighters you'd be happy enough with any 8-way joy.  Happs Super or some such.

Low end Comp vs Xbox?  Depends on how "low end" you mean vs what you want to run.  I was able to run acceptable older versions of a LOT of 2d fighters w/ just a PII 300 and 512MB SDRAM, 32MB video card , win98 for awhile... but am much happier now w/ another "low end"    1.8GhZ P4.  If by low end you mean somebody's garage sale P90 , you could probably still run, but not as much and you wouldn't be happy w/ it.

Get a mid-high end PC...