Rotating CP vs. double-decker CP

[TAG]

Ever since I started my cabinet design last year, I've been planning to use a 2 or 3 sided rotating control panel.  For whatever reason, I've recently had second thoughts and have been looking at the possibility of a double decker panel (like Supercade).

For those who have built or just played on a cabinet with the double decker panels, how do your hands/wrists/arms hold up when using the top panel for extended periods?  It seems to me that the added height over the lower panel might make it harder on the wrists, in particular.  Or maybe it's fine, so long as there is sufficient support at the front of the top panel.

Can anyone offer their thoughts?  Thanks!

[Turnarcades]

Not built one myself, but a rotating panel would have to be done properly to not look ugly and be sturdy.

I love the overall look of the Supercade panel but am wary of the same issues you are. I don't see why these can't just be done on all one level instead.

Ask yourself if you really need all those controls first.

[weisshaupt]

I have been pretty happy with my DOC based modular CP design. The Velcro-shoelace method I used is sturdy and there is no movement in the panels, and it makes fabrication a LOT easier. My 4 and 6 year olds can change the panels without issue. A modular design  is  still much more work than just doing a panel.. but if you are thinking about rotating panels, that is a LOT more work..


Click my website ICON to be taken to the project thread where I describe how I did it..

[Ummon]

There are several very good, and I don't think too complex, designs on the web. They're plenty sturdy. As for the dual level panel, I'd be more worried about your back.

[DaveMMR]

With the more versatile joysticks (e.g., Ultrastick 360) there's less need for either extreme.  Ask yourself what controls you "really" need (and mull over just simply swapping out panels) before going the double-decker/rotating route.

However, if you're going for looks, rotating is much better looking.  The double-decker is a cool solution but it's still too busy-looking for my tastes.    Just my opinion...

[vertygo]

Rotating, definitely.

[Blanka]

Mies van der Rohe said: "Less is More". How true is that. Forget both, and make a damn good looking regular 2 player control panel. I do not even know what Pac-Mamea does in the hall-of-fame. Imagine those kids playing with your cab and rotating it infinitely until all the cables break. Think about your wife. Please erase this dirty thoughts from your brain fast!