Billabs 27" and 1024x768 - vs. Wells Garner or Betson. New Billabs 25"

[Spacedueler]

How is the 1024x768 on a Billabs 27" in Windows? In a Mame cabinet we have a functioning pc that looks terrible on a TV screen. What does the Billabs compare to? If I can build my dream machine, it may be worth spending the extra $$.

I just saw they now have a 25" curved monitor listed on their website. This could be great as I think the curved screen would look more authentic for arcade play. Is there any downside to the 27" being flat?

I'm going to build a cabinet mostly for Mame. Probably the standard two player with trackball for some centiped/ fighter games / pacman/ defender. I've done all my research on controls and am about to order all the components. I'm having a tough time on the monitor though, partly because it could be the most expensive one component.

While I want the cabinet to have the distinctive arcade feel, I'd like for it to also be as versatile as possible since it will be going into a small gameroom. The theme I'm looking for is classic arcade cabinet that does more vs. a computer that plays arcade games. The kids and I have just discovered StepMania which is a nice add to the DanceDanceRevelution we are already running on the desktop with Mame. I'm sure as I entertain guests it will get used quite a bit playing the old classics, but I plan on installing a good amp and high quality speakers so it will be a functioning jukebox. I think I may end up using GameEX as the frontend.

[ahofle]

I wish people would post reviews of the new 24.8" multisync from Billabs.  I know a few people here have them, but no one seems to want to put up a review.  Just looking at the specs, it seems like the perfect arcade monitor for a MAME cab right now IMO.

[Vanguard]

I have the 27" and it is awesome in Windows at 1024 x 768.  I don't know of any downside to it being flat.  It made making my own bezel very easy.

[bent98]

I also have the 27 inch and it rocks!!

[Spacedueler]

Do you also use the ArcadeVGA card to run native resolutions in your games?

where can I get one? I just search the web and didn't find anything as far as distributors. I'm I stuck going straight to the manufacturer?

[Vanguard]

I do not run mine with an ArcadeVGA.

I went to Billabs directly.  They are not the manufacturer.  Wei Ya is the manufacturer.  Billabs imports them and is the U.S. distributor.

http://www.billabs.com/

[Shoegazer]

I have the Billabs 27" flat too, and it's definitely an excellent product.  Before I bought it I had purchased a Wells Gardner 800x600 monitor, and had to return it --three times-- for replacements since each one was shipped with a warped image on the top/bottom.  Fortunately the customer service at WG was top notch, and the people are very friendly and willing to help; however their product was not up to snuff.  Things may have changed since the year and a half since I went through that ordeal, but who knows.

Anyway, I highly recommend the Billabs 27" - and you just can't beat 1024x768.  It makes bezel art look great!  Go for it.

Shoegazer

[bent98]

You cant get them anymore. I got the last one 3 months ago. As far as video  suggestions. Dont bother with the AVGA just get a nvidia or ATI card and use soft 15khz.

works well

[Spacedueler]

Can anyone now help with model numbers? According to Billabs 27" spec page, I want the BL27CA0Q which will do the 1024x768:

http://www.billabs.com/images/monitor_27_specs.pdf


But they are only listing the BL27C90T on there products page, it is a trimode and only does 640x480:

http://www.billabs.com/crts.htm

I just put an email to the sales department just now. Hopefully I'll get in contact with someone on Monday and find out if they really are no longer available.

[Vanguard]

There is also the BL27CA1Q which does 1024x768 and has a lower dot pitch than the 0Q.

[bent98]

BL27C90P is the one you want. Thats does the 1024x768. Like I said I got the last one. They told me that they are not making any more.

http://www.billabs.com/bl27cb0p.htm They hide the link to it as well. Is still accessable though.

[brandon]

BL27C90P is the one you want. Thats does the 1024x768. Like I said I got the last one. They told me that they are not making any more.

http://www.billabs.com/bl27cb0p.htm They hide the link to it as well. Is still accessable though.

does this mean that Billabs  just stopped importing them from Wei Ya or Wei Ya quit making them all together?  I REALLY want to get one and ditch this Kortek/Betson!!