The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: saint on August 23, 2003, 12:03:04 pm

Title: Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: saint on August 23, 2003, 12:03:04 pm
I'm going to be adding a page featuring the top 20 most inspirational example projects (10 cabinets, 10 stand alone desktop arcade controls). I'm asking for your help in selecting the top 20 projects.  The first step will be a nomination process - anyone can nominate up to 3 projects, listed in order of most inspirational.  After a nomination period, then voting will occur.

A project may be inspiration because of artwork,  design features,  "first of breed", completeness of web site, etc...

The only criteria that must be met is that the author of the project must be reachable via email.  If you know this ahead of time that's great, but don't worry about it if you don't.  I'll be attempting to contact them.  If I cannot reach them they will not make it to the voting.  Those whose projects are voted on and whom agree to allow it will have their projects mirrored on the BYOAC web site for posterity.

Please help out and nominate your favorite projects!

*Edit* Please include a web link if you can. :)

--- saint
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: menace on August 23, 2003, 12:09:34 pm
1up all the way.

edit:Phenominal website too--the layout and content is second to none.  There are others who have borrowed and modifyed his design who deserve a nod, but I believe his design was the turning point.  T
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: TheGatesofBill on August 23, 2003, 12:34:16 pm
I have to nominate Scott's Unicade. His project has had the largest effect on my own by far.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Sasquatch! on August 23, 2003, 12:42:09 pm
Tons of people base their plans off of LuSiD's so that'd get my vote.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: OSCAR on August 23, 2003, 12:48:12 pm
Lusid's, Scott's Unicade, and Mr. Salty's projects.

I began construction on my first mame cab based just on those three project websites before I even found the arcadecontrols.com resource.   :o

The new cabinets like 1UP's and Frosty's are definitely worth mentioning, too.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Smack on August 23, 2003, 12:54:40 pm
I've definately gotta add my vote Mr. Salty's cab.

That was the one that inspired me to build my first upright, not to mention all the info about how to wire the encoder. (I started with a Hagstrom KE24 and god bless him for the details on the matrix).

Smack
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: AlanS17 on August 23, 2003, 01:15:04 pm
Well lemme add mine before you start.  ;D
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: RacerX on August 23, 2003, 02:08:28 pm
I nominate the Roswell cab and Mr. Salty's.

I based my swappable panels on the Roswell cab (not to mention that the cab is still one of the most unique ones out there).

And I got a Hagstrom encoder and based the keyboard matrix on Mr. Salty's.

As far as newer cabs go, 1Up's cab definitely needs to be in the mix.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: BobA on August 23, 2003, 02:16:44 pm
Pacman cocktail cabinet by Kyle Linstrom.  An excellent set of plans from which many cocktail cabs were built.

BobA
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SNAAAKE on August 23, 2003, 02:26:13 pm
1.ULTIMATE ARCADE 2 ! !
NUFF SAID ! ! ;D

2.MAMESTATION THE GAME IS NOT OVER ! :D
Well,I honestly didn't like his first cabinet that much except the cool artworks.
It was generic lusid style but gotta give him some credit for the artworks.
I designed one of my sideart after his(almost same).
Mamestation 2 looks better(ua2 style) and his site looks great.The flash intro for mamestation 2 is great too.
Very nice all around 8)

3.Then scott's unicade.Excellent looking cab and lots of info.

4.The "BEAM"  :o
http://www.geocities.com/brian_coney/maincabinetpage.html

5.Lusid flashback.ALL my panels looks like his(even the litte onces I sold).
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: jakejake28 on August 23, 2003, 02:35:34 pm
either of jelloslugs, i mean, he's the guy behind the real modular control panels.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: TalkingOctopus on August 23, 2003, 02:37:02 pm
scott's unicade
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: android on August 23, 2003, 04:11:51 pm
Kevin's defender replica (site now gone) and Bilder's DigDug were the ones who inspired me into this hobby more than 5 years ago. However the Roswell (removable panels) and 1up (rotary panels) are the most technically revolutionalry examples. Although credit is due to Xiaou for first exploring the concept of rotary panels way before 1up.

-- Android
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: nipsmg on August 23, 2003, 04:27:45 pm
I've got to nominate (in order)
1. 1up
2. Ultimate Arcade II (No mater how "commercial", MANY MANY MANY cabinets have been built off this design.. I'd nominate mamestation here, but this isn't an artwork category, and the UAII was the inspiration, or basis of this project).
3. Roswell ---  Noone really remembers this..  but this was one of the first project i remember with swappable control panels, and with just amazing design.. The diamond steel kickplate, the moon artwork.... Truly inspirational.

--NipsMG
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: nipsmg on August 23, 2003, 04:29:01 pm
(sorry android, didn't even read you nominated roswell in the post before mine, didn't read the whole thread..  ;D)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Xiaou2 on August 23, 2003, 04:30:16 pm

 Thanks Andriod  ^_^  

  Wish I could have finished it earlier...  but months of unemployment, teaching kungfu privately, and current marble madness remake project have halted any building/re-building latly  : (      Someday tho... it will arise a new beast : )



  http://www.xiaou2.homestead.com
  http://www.xiaou2.homestead.com/marbleinsanity.html




Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on August 23, 2003, 04:40:26 pm
Roswell and Scott's Unicade helped out alot for me :)  Roswell was my inspiration and the Unicade is a great design to work with.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: telengard on August 23, 2003, 05:01:21 pm
For me the following were of great help:

The Lilypad
Scott's Unicade
Mr Salty

I'm also really digging Carlos' Centipede cabinet.  That is my favorite style
of cabinet and he's doing a great job with it.  All the goodies I wanted
in mine ( rotating monitor, swappable controls, etc ) with very good
authentic artwork ( donkey kong panel ).

http://www.retrospieler.de
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Tiger-Heli on August 23, 2003, 05:24:52 pm
I really hope Saint meant 3 of each (Cabs and desktops) and even then, I'm going to take some liberties and throw in some "Honorable Mention" votes:

First the desktops.  (No offense if I leave someone out.  I decided pretty soon how my desktop panel was going to go together and haven't paid much attention to the recent examples).

1.  Joey's Arcade panel - http://www.arcadecontrols.com/arcade_joey.htm (The guy built his own yoke and DOT spinner from scratch) (YEARS ago!)  PM me if you need his E-mail.

2.  Brian Coney's Panel - http://www.geocities.com/brian_coney/index.html  (Remember when black marble contact paper was all the rage.  I still have a roll of it, although I changed my mind about using it.  This was the compromise between "Be nice to make something like Joey's" and "Hey, I can almost do this and it looks great!"

3.  Robotron 2010 ??? - Can't find the website anymore.  He had some great custom overlays on it.  Mckehsonny or sth like that.  I think he did some logo's for Mameworld also, maybe KC has his E-mail?

Uprights -

1.  1Up - (everyone knows the cab and website).  Really innovative and really professional.
2.  Roswell - This blew me away when I first started getting into the hobby.  Still looks good.
3.  Gromet - http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=10;action=display;threadid=10761;start=msg83182#msg83182  I really like that you can play almost anything on this cab without having to swap panels out or rotate stuff around.  And it's a 4-player cab without having the CP hang over 1 foot on each side.

Honorable mentions -

1. Xiaou2 - The guy builds some awesome stuff, from the rotating hexagon, to the lightswitch shifter, to the motorcycle handlebars, sinistar joystick, etc, etc,

2. LusiD, gave me the idea to draw templates out in Word.  Tons of people using his plans.

3.  Well, it's not real, but I really like OSCAR's design in this thread:  http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=3994;start=0  If anyone know of someone using a Showcase cabinet with a removeable control podium, please nominate it.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: 1UP on August 23, 2003, 05:34:11 pm
Most of the inspiration for the shape of my cab came from the original Defender, Centipede, and T2 cabs, but I definitely took inspiration from Xiaou2's rotating design.  I actually was sketching plans for a 3-panel rotating setup weeks before discovering his site, but his design helped me think about things like locking mechanisms and internal space for controls.  His cab was the only forerunner I could look to for hints, since it was the only rotating design at the time.  I credit him all the time and even have a link on my webpage to his site!

BTW, I'm looking forward to seeing your finished Marble Insanity--looks way cool bro!  :D
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Apollo on August 23, 2003, 06:36:28 pm
1 UP
Roswell ( awesome )
Lusid
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Howard_Casto on August 23, 2003, 06:57:12 pm
We even call some cabs a "Lscid" cab at this point, so I would consider it a travesty if it wasn't #1.  

1ups would have to get in there somewhere.  There have arguably been "better" rotating panels since then, but his was the first one to be properly intergrated into the cab and still look somewhat stock from the outside.  Quite brilliant in my book.

Also salty's modular panels and ect have been ripped off a lot(plus, unlike other psuedo-modular rigs, they don't look brutally awful) so that'd have to be my #3.  

On an unrelated note:  Is 20 really the best number?  Mind you there are a ton of nice cabs out there, but when we are looking for inspirational after about the top 5 or so the quality drops off tremendously.  It's kind of like a classes grade sheet with 5 A+'s, a ton of B-'s and the rest D's or below.  ;)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on August 23, 2003, 07:07:09 pm
Also salty's modular panels and ect have been ripped off a lot(plus, unlike other psuedo-modular rigs, they don't look brutally awful) so that'd have to be my #3.  
Well, it's more swappable panel than modular

I forgot to add jelloslug's is my inspiration fo my next control panel to be modular.  Splut!
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Amra on August 23, 2003, 07:50:59 pm
I think this one deserves to be thrown into the mix, its clean, and very professional looking!

http://www.robboweb.com/mamecab/

Always been one of my favorites!
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: MrBond on August 23, 2003, 09:58:13 pm
Upright

1) Rick's MAME Project II -
http://home.neo.rr.com/martinko/mame.htm
This was the first MAME cab I saw, so naturally, I studied it like mad, the gears of my mind turning with every word and image :)  I even ended up using the same cabinet (TMNT)!  I roughly followed his cp layout, and he sold me on the IPAC!  So, Rick was a wonderful inspiration and guide, from dream to reality.

2) 1up -
http://www.1uparcade.com/arcade-const-plans.html
I love his rotating panel, and even though I decided not to go that way, his cab was a great inspiration of creativity and ingenuity.  I used an e-stik because of him.  The website is top notch and informative for newbies and veteran builders alike.  THE most invovative in mamecab technologies in my opinion.

3) Scott's Unicade - http://home.austin.rr.com/shumate/unicade/index.htm
Great cab with a lot to offer on his website.  I used his cp layout, along with Rick's to design my own upright cp!

4) Supercade -
http://www.cybercoma.com/supercade/
This cabinet is very well done and gave me some pointers in chosing a monitor.  Inovative with the duel layer design.  Great site.

5) Mr. Salty - http://www.mrsalty.net/
I used his website off and on.  His modular design is the best one I've ever seen, and he gives in depth information for prospect builders(even a cost anaylsis- ouch!).  I also seriously considered following his rotating monitor solution.  I used his idea in powering the cabinet with a button wired to the comp's power.  Wonderful website.


Stand Alone

1) http://home.broadpark.no/~njbrekk/
The website doesn't work anymore?  Well, I based my stand alone off of this guy's, so I give homage.

2) John IV of MAME32 -
http://www.classicgaming.com/mame32qa/controller/controller.htm
I enjoyed reading his adventure in building his own controls!  Gave me some insight into the "plexiglass" phase of my project, as well as the simplistic artwork for a cp overlay.

2) GSXRMovistar - http://www.runriot.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/arcade/
The best standalone I've seen.  The artwork is freak'n awesome...I want to copycat it someday :)  His website is fairly new, and I didn't see it until after my cab construction, but looks great!


PS- I like the "top 5" in each category idea over a "top 10".  Which ever way you go though, great idea in giving honor to these wonderful build your own arcade control masters!


Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: JamieDeb on August 24, 2003, 04:08:28 am
I love my Lunacade...so my vote goes for it ;=)
(and the site is very cool too)

www.lunacade.com (http://www.lunacade.com)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: zzsprade on August 24, 2003, 06:03:41 am
If anyone know of someone using a Showcase cabinet with a removeable control podium, please nominate it.

Tiger-Heli,

Mate this is exactly what I am looking at doing myself once I return home at the end of the year. I am hoping to have enough time to complete it. I just had to say great minds think alike.

-Alex
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Carsten Carlos on August 24, 2003, 07:24:14 am
1) Roswell 88201
-For its swappable contropanels, and clean look. The first example I loved at first sight those days I started this stuff

2) 1up
-Of course, the only real alternative for swappable controlpanels, and a nice guy, too!

3) My most inspiring cab is obviously the original Centipede upright, but guess I can't vote for that?  :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Totallyout2lunch on August 24, 2003, 12:50:55 pm
GSXRMovistar's Cab gets my vote.

 Forum link GSXRMovistar  (http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=10;action=display;threadid=7414)

 Web Site  (http://www.runriot.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/arcade/)

I think its beautiful, I know its based on Lucids cab, but the work on the graphics etc just make this cab stand head and sholders above the rest.

As a side bar: I emailed GSXRMovistar, to ask him about the dimentions of his control panel, and within 2 hours he sent me a full size plan of it, just print, cut, and drill. What a nice guy! :D
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Apollo on August 24, 2003, 04:52:08 pm
Is that cabinet actually finished?
As far as I can tell it's just planned at this stage. Anyone know?
I think to be eligible for this the cab needs to be finished.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: dclatfel on August 24, 2003, 09:30:06 pm
Two nominations for me:

1) LuSiD's cab first - because his plans have inspired so many of us !

2) CmdrTaco's Jubei cab.  It was my first inspiration, and the first cab I ever saw with a wood finish.  Check it out at:
http://cmdrtaco.net/cabinet/

Thanks all !

David Clatfelter

P.S.  Check out my cab at:
http://www.clatfelter.com/arcade.html
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: ampapa2 on August 25, 2003, 06:59:50 am
Can you submit your own cabinet??? ??? ??? www.ajmmame.webajm.com
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Tiger-Heli on August 25, 2003, 07:10:28 am
Is that cabinet actually finished?
As far as I can tell it's just planned at this stage. Anyone know?
I think to be eligible for this the cab needs to be finished.

You mean they get finished sometime?  (I'm not sure I understand the word in this context???)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: )p( on August 25, 2003, 07:20:39 am
Is that cabinet actually finished?
As far as I can tell it's just planned at this stage. Anyone know?
I think to be eligible for this the cab needs to be finished.

You mean they get finished sometime?  (I'm not sure I understand the word in this context???)

as i just ordered a tornado spinner even i can't say mine is finsihed anymore...so after 3 years of being finished it's wip again   ;)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: telengard on August 25, 2003, 02:03:13 pm
Is that cabinet actually finished?
As far as I can tell it's just planned at this stage. Anyone know?
I think to be eligible for this the cab needs to be finished.

You mean they get finished sometime?  (I'm not sure I understand the word in this context???)

as i just ordered a tornado spinner even i can't say mine is finsihed anymore...so after 3 years of being finished it's wip again   ;)

Hehe, same here.  Mine was finished.  Then I decided to re-do
all my control panels.  Now it's "finished" again.  But who knows
for how long.     :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: NIVO on August 25, 2003, 04:12:18 pm
LOL, most of us here will agree. The cab will never ever be "finished", always an ongoing project for renovations, improvements, and all-out construction on a continual basis.

 ;D
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: GamingGreg on August 25, 2003, 04:50:56 pm
For me the most helpful was Mr. Salty's , as his cabinet (and mine) was a converted Defender cabinet.  But I got got inspiration from Lusid's, 1Up's, and Scott's Unicade.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: 1UP on August 25, 2003, 06:20:54 pm
You mean they get finished sometime?  (I'm not sure I understand the word in this context???)

Me three!  At least if I had a real monitor already, I could finish my bezel the way I want to, and my cab wouldn't change much visually after that.  But I still need to add 5V LEDs to my illuminated PBs, paint the aluminum bar across my front door, block out the light leaking out the sides of my marquee, add a DOT spinner and/or knob, add DOT inserts on my Tron sticks, add artwork to my backsplash panels, and finish my 3rd CP with artwork/Lexan!  A new CPU would be good too, so I can finally play Area51, Cruisn', KI, Primal Rage etc...  ;)

Plus, I have a couple super-secret projects coming up that will keep my cab in WIP status for some time to come!
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Apollo on August 25, 2003, 07:39:37 pm
By finished I simply meant is it more than just a 3DMAX rendering at the moment?
You are all well aware of what I meant lol  ;)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Zapper on August 25, 2003, 11:22:31 pm
Some of my favorite projects in no particlular order.

Roswell - Original, swappable panels

Rick's MAME Cabinet (http://home.neo.rr.com/martinko/mame.htm) - Great cabinet art

Motorfish Cabinet - Great art, nice looking light blue t-molding

1up's Cabinet - Rotisserie at it's finest

Mr. Salty - Nice swappable panel designs

GSXRMovistar's Game Not Over Control Panel - Very nice art

Arcade Solutions Ferrari control panel (correct name?)- One of the coolest control panels I've seen, couldn't find his web site so here's a few pics.
Ferrari 1 (http://home1.gte.net/res07nzn/Ferside.jpg)
Ferrari 2 (http://home1.gte.net/res07nzn/Ferback.jpg)

Pete's Joystick Workshop Control Panels - The first home-made arcade control panels I ever saw, inspired me to build one also
Pete's Joystick Workshop (http://www.y2krunch.com/petebuilt/videogames/joysticks/joystick.html)

Tiger-Heli posted about my Robotron 3000 control panel, so here's some pics. My site has been down for almost three years, maybe I should update it :-)
Robotron 1 (http://home1.gte.net/res07nzn/robo_big.jpg)
Robotron 2 (http://home1.gte.net/res07nzn/robo1.jpg)
Robotron 3 (http://home1.gte.net/res07nzn/robo2.jpg)
Robotron 4 (http://home1.gte.net/res07nzn/robo3.jpg)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on August 26, 2003, 12:04:08 am
Trashcade!  Just kidding saint ;)  might be my microcab for the contest...
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: austinrfnd on August 26, 2003, 01:21:14 am
Lusid's got my vote :)

-Austin
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: jediknight0 on August 26, 2003, 06:15:24 am
So... can I nominate myself?   ;D

http://www.xkill.net/rcaslis/computers/MiniMAME (http://www.xkill.net/rcaslis/computers/MiniMAME)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Mameham on August 26, 2003, 09:43:52 am
 I give an honorable nomination to mine, Mameham, because it was the first... but certainly not the best...

 And then I'll give myself props for my cocktail cabinet... 1000x better than Mameham and a very good example of how multiple inputs can be on one, non-swappable cabinet and not look cluttered...

 Now if I can just finish the website for it... ;)

- Eric
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: GSXRMovistar on August 26, 2003, 09:54:55 am
By finished I simply meant is it more than just a 3DMAX rendering at the moment?
You are all well aware of what I meant lol  ;)

Well as a stand-alone controller its fully complete and working (has been for some time).  :)

As a cabinet its probably 1/3rd done, I built the lower half at the weekend and finished cutting all the sections for the top half. Just hard finding the time to assembly everything.

And its always been much more than just a 3DSMax rendering  ;)

PS. I'll post my nominations later, I have quite a few to list.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Tiger-Heli on August 26, 2003, 09:54:56 am
By finished I simply meant is it more than just a 3DMAX rendering at the moment?
You are all well aware of what I meant lol  ;)
Well, I nominated OSCAR's rendering that only exists in a msg board thread.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: hyiu on August 26, 2003, 10:42:26 am
 :o :o :o :o
ohhh..... soooo many posts already !!!!.... (I'm late !!!..)

when I think of amazing cab.....
2 of them comes to my mind right away......

1UP has the amazing cab......
(I don't think I need to explain why....)

also Phantompower (sorry if I misspell your name....)
has the original Mamestation..... & Mamestation II....
his cab inspired me a lot...... somehow.... looking at his cab makes me wants to make one.... haaa haa....

and for control panel.....

Animeka has a very simple control panel....
(with artwork - a guy holding a sword....)
its just simple and VERY nice........

there are TONS of other nice ones out there....
but theses are the ones that comes to my mind immediately when you ask me....

good luck to all !!!!

 ;D ;D ;D ;D



Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: clok on August 26, 2003, 11:16:49 am
LUCID!  how can it be anybody else?  :)
J/K  guess its about the cab that got you going, not about how long it was around... His was the first page I hit everyday when I was thinking/planning mine out way back in the old days when there where 20-30 in the Examples page.

One thing I got to say, I see 1-UP listed alot , and (shuffles feet) I have been to his page many times, but im not sure I have ever looked at his CAB (yep, Im feeling left out) going to go look now. And 1-UP if you read this... Im sorry, heheh I know I have read your page and seen your help in the forum many times.. I almost feel like I have done soemthing wrong... heheh

Clok
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Wienerdog on August 26, 2003, 01:45:11 pm
My first nomination goes to Frosty.  Not only for his awsome ARCADE (http://arcade.tomvanhorn.com/) cab, but for his contributions in all graphics design threads I have ever seen here.  

His panels are clean and appropriate for their purpose and his artwork is original while still maintaining an accurate reproduction of the original (is that possible?).  Very nice!
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: GSXRMovistar on August 26, 2003, 01:55:08 pm
Not sure about the amount of work evolved (Saint would probably know) but another option for creating a top 20 would be to update the examples page (or maybe start a fresh as there appear to be a lot of dead links now), so that each entry/example has a voting/grading option, so viewers could give it a grade of 1-10, or something like that.

I
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Dr. J on August 26, 2003, 10:04:43 pm
I really like:
1.  Ricks Mame Project II (http://home.carolina.rr.com/rmartinko/mame.htm)
2.  Snakes Mamecast (http://www.freewebs.com/snaaake/M2.htm)
3.  Arcade Stupidity (http://www.doughansen.net/arcade/cabinet.htm)

There are so many great looking projects out there now it's hard to just pick a few.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Siffreddi on August 27, 2003, 01:24:52 am
Hello all,

Been visiting this site and reading these boards for years, but have not posted since registration was required.  I think this is a good thread for my first reg'd post.

1.  Scott's Unicade - Inspired me to build my first cab.  In fact, I am using a similar frame for the cab I am currently building.  Nice guy too.  I bombarded him with e-mail questions a few years ago and he was always patient and helpful.

2.  1UP - Inspired me to start my current project.  IMHO 1UP's innovative cp design is second to none.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: PkingRoch on August 27, 2003, 12:08:46 pm
Gotta throw these nominations in as I haven't seen them yet.

For Cabs:

The VectoRaster project at http://www.pcreliability.com/vectoraster/ (http://www.pcreliability.com/vectoraster/).  Without this project and the availability of his plans, my cab http://tinyurl.com/fflo (http://tinyurl.com/fflo) would never had seen the light of day.

The quality of John's Mame cabinet http://www.wilsoncellular.com/mame/cabinet.htm (http://www.wilsoncellular.com/mame/cabinet.htm) convinced me I could do a good job as well.

Finally - Wade's Arcade Flashback http://www.newwave.net/~flanham/wlanham/arcade/ (http://www.newwave.net/~flanham/wlanham/arcade/) pushed me over the edge.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: chris_lemasters on August 27, 2003, 03:18:43 pm
The website for Kevin Umbach's home built Defender (mentioned earlier) is http://members.shaw.ca/kevinu/arcade/ (http://members.shaw.ca/kevinu/arcade/)

A great inspiration, so long ago...

I'd also add to the praise for Mr. Salty and his cab (thanks, my man!)  Love your Mamewah skins, too!

But number one - the BYOAC "project" was THE most inspirational (I know, a website is not a cab...)

Chris

http://home.indy.rr.com/mamecocktail/
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: dhansen on August 27, 2003, 10:05:22 pm
I really like:
1.  Ricks Mame Project II (http://home.carolina.rr.com/rmartinko/mame.htm)
2.  Snakes Mamecast (http://www.freewebs.com/snaaake/M2.htm)
3.  Arcade Stupidity (http://www.doughansen.net/arcade/cabinet.htm)

There are so many great looking projects out there now it's hard to just pick a few.

Hey thanks!  I better post some more up to date pics!

Doug
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Valence on August 28, 2003, 12:04:48 am
So does the project have to have a web site? What if it's only half done?
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: 1UP on August 28, 2003, 02:24:54 am
I dont' know about anyone else, but holy cow, Carsten's Centipede cab is looking really good!  Kinda inspires me to make a new one...hmm....  :D

Make that my second vote!
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: sirhcman on August 28, 2003, 02:35:52 am
I nominate Trashcade..I am building one as we speak.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: )p( on August 28, 2003, 03:04:04 am
I dont' know about anyone else, but holy cow, Carsten's Centipede cab is looking really good!  Kinda inspires me to make a new one...hmm....  :D

Make that my second vote!

-my vote also goes to Carsten's

-also to 1up's and fros rotating cp cabs's

i personally like the look of uncluttered "classic" cabs and cp's. Therefore changable and rotating panels are the only option if i wanted to have all the controls. Luckily i don 't  :D I PERSONALLY find all those big all purpose cp's and cab's with cp's sticking out to the left and right kinda ugly... ;) What I also like in these 3 is the use of artwork to make them feel as an integrated whole...something i also strived for in my cab when i made it years ago..i even went so far as to make a fe to fit the theme ;)

When i have to pick one of those then I can't help myself I go for Carsten's...I love the shape of a centipede and wow that new centipede sideart you bought looks very very tasty indeed... :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: pocketbikez on August 28, 2003, 06:21:02 pm
my 3 cabinets that count as one.

http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/arcade/ (http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/arcade/)
built in 1998 when arcadecontrols.com had about 30 examples, this furniture grade oak cabinet is classy enough to put in the living room.

http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/dot (http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/dot)
cabinet shape inspired by a super zaxxon cabinet. regular width 26.25".

http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/qbert (http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/qbert)
cabinet shape inspired by centuri cabs(the pit, phoenix) 25.5" wide





other than my cabinets i like this guys cabinet:
supercadehttp://www.cybercoma.com/supercade/ (http://www.cybercoma.com/supercade/)
i swiped his lightgun holster idea for my discs of tron cab.

1up has a very good website with lots of technical and hacking info. i also like the graphics on his control panels. there seems to be a small cult following of his cabinet on the arcadecontrols.com message boards. the rotating control panel design is interesting in a save space kinda way but im curious if it wobbles slightly or isnt very solid.

Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: etumor on August 28, 2003, 06:39:57 pm
I've got to second the nomination of that oak monster:

http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/arcade/
Ironically, this is the very cabinet that I worshipped when I was designing my first cabinet -- which eventually lead to the creation of Supercade -- what comes around goes around.  I actually still have that site bookmarked!  That is one beautiful cab!

Other than that, I studied Ricks Mame Project II, and I also found LuSid to be very helpful.

-Jeff "etumor" Allen
http://www.cybercoma.com/supercade
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Pixelhugger on August 28, 2003, 08:35:55 pm
I really hope Saint meant 3 of each (Cabs and desktops) and even then, I'm going to take some liberties and throw in some "Honorable Mention" votes:

First the desktops...
 
3.  Robotron 2010 ??? - Can't find the website anymore.  He had some great custom overlays on it.  Mckehsonny or sth like that.  I think he did some logo's for Mameworld also, maybe KC has his E-mail?

Robotron 3000, I think. Zapper's project. Hands down the best control panel I've ever seen. I second that nomination, tho I doubt enough people voting here were around back when the site was up for it to get the votes it deserves.

As far as cabinets.

Roswell - first of breed for perfect theming/clean professional design and execution

Obviously 1 UP's

and that Supercade  http://www.cybercoma.com/supercade/index.shtml
because it looks better than real.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SNAAAKE on August 29, 2003, 12:13:12 am
I really like:
1.  Ricks Mame Project II (http://home.carolina.rr.com/rmartinko/mame.htm)
2.  Snakes Mamecast (http://www.freewebs.com/snaaake/M2.htm)
3.  Arcade Stupidity (http://www.doughansen.net/arcade/cabinet.htm)

There are so many great looking projects out there now it's hard to just pick a few.
YAY !  ;D I am mentioned.

I forgot to nominate control panels.here goes.

http://axelb.free.fr/caj/
First custom joystick I have ever seen :D.
I owe it to this dude big time.
I was on aol search engine  trying to find a better stick then the shiz you buy from eb games.
so thats him...#1 for the panel.

http://www.leafstation.com/images/console/Finished%20Product%202.jpg
yeah,at the time,NO ONE used artwork for cp.
A great inspiration ;D

Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: 1UP on August 29, 2003, 12:14:51 am
the rotating control panel design is interesting in a save space kinda way but im curious if it wobbles slightly or isnt very solid.

You can lift up on the panels (where they open for maintenance) and wiggle them up and down a fraction of an inch, but the rotating part is solid as a rock with the door closed.  During play, though, nothing moves at all.  (Unless you pull the sticks straight out from the panel really hard, which you're not supposed to do anyway...  :-\ )
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: )p( on August 29, 2003, 01:31:10 am
[quote author=pocketbikez link=board=1;threadid=10998;start=40#msg85516  (Unless you pull the sticks straight out from the panel really hard, which you're not supposed to do anyway...  :-\ )

Robotron!  ;)

peter
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: telengard on August 29, 2003, 02:32:53 am
[quote author=pocketbikez link=board=1;threadid=10998;start=40#msg85516  (Unless you pull the sticks straight out from the panel really hard, which you're not supposed to do anyway...  :-\ )

Robotron!  ;)

peter

LOL, I agree 100%.  I am a very sloppy Robotron player and am always yanking up on the joysticks.   :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: lob on September 01, 2003, 06:48:32 am
I nominate myself since no one else has : )

http://www.tombstones.org.uk/~lob/

Yeah, and LuSiD and Roswell get my vote. LuSiD for the sheer number of projects he inspired, and Roswell for being ''unique/cutting edge/'out there'.

lob

Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Nailz on September 02, 2003, 11:03:00 am
1. Lusid for obvious reasons
2. BEAM - for first giving me the idea that my cab did not have to be painted MDF, I could actually use a nice looking wood and for the beauty of that cab.
3.  Lindstroms (sp?) cocktail plans
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: night on September 02, 2003, 10:39:46 pm
 :o when is the deadline ?

im not afraid to nominate my own :). i just moved into a house this weekend and it is apart right now. i will be finishing it up and getting lots of pics this coming weekend.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on September 02, 2003, 11:35:16 pm
how can you nominate yourself?  Your cabinet was inspirational to building your cabinet?
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SNAAAKE on September 02, 2003, 11:39:44 pm
how can you nominate yourself?  Your cabinet was inspirational to building your cabinet?

err... ::)

I think people are confusing "inspiration" with "nominate the best cabinet and controls".....
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on September 03, 2003, 03:40:42 am
I think so too.  I would have to say motofish would qualify as inspirational as his project posting has the largest number of views of any thread on the board :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Ahi_Tuna on September 03, 2003, 07:45:28 pm
Arcade Machines:

Madsmurf's http://arcade.madsmurf.com/ - using a japananess candy machine is awesome.
Jakobud's http://www.jakobud.com/ - It's simple but very clean. Awesome CP.

Desktop Controls:

Modeverything's http://www.geocities.com/armad1ll0/images/Sample_Sticks.JPG (CC signature) and http://www.geocities.com/armad1ll0/systems/Capcom_FP.htm (Capcom Frame Pefect) - top mounting the Sanwa Japanese stick is awesome.
Joystick builder's http://members.cox.net/vtomas5/joystick_builder/index.htm (Virtua Fighter sticks) - they are simply very well done.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: jhsmith321 on September 05, 2003, 10:09:29 am
There are many arcades that have helped me out as inspiration, but I think that the 3 most influential projects for me are:
1- Taz
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: phantompower on September 08, 2003, 08:50:56 pm
Hey all,

Thanks to those who mentioned my Mamestation cabs.

In terms of nominations...I have to give credit to

1.  LuCId's plans

2.  Scott's plans at M.A.M.E.Room

Again, thanks for the consideration!!

Chuck
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: bionicbadger on September 09, 2003, 10:46:51 am
My vote(s) goes to:

Lucid
1UP

And I'd like to mention Oscar's pictures of smoked plexi that convinced me to use that in my abinet.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: txcanoeman on September 09, 2003, 12:48:47 pm
Retrocactus (it convinced me to build a cabinet with only 2 sheets of plywood.

http://www.retrocactus.com/cabinets/retrocactus.html
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Dartful Dodger on September 09, 2003, 01:19:42 pm
Can you submit your own cabinet??? ??? ??? www.ajmmame.webajm.com

If your submitting a page that cannot be displayed...

probably not.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on September 09, 2003, 06:53:13 pm
Can you submit your own cabinet??? ??? ??? www.ajmmame.webajm.com

If your submitting a page that cannot be displayed...

probably not.

Hehe, I think I said this already, how can your own cabinet be inspirational to you?  Something had to inspire you to build a cabinet :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Frostillicus on September 09, 2003, 07:51:49 pm
Can you submit your own cabinet??? ??? ??? www.ajmmame.webajm.com

If your submitting a page that cannot be displayed...

probably not.



Hehe, I think I said this already, how can your own cabinet be inspirational to you?  Something had to inspire you to build a cabinet :)

Ditto.

Oh yeah...all my inspirational influences have been nominated at least once, already.  
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Brax on September 10, 2003, 06:38:38 pm
Most inspirational, period:

Mr. Salty: for all his technical info.
Roswell: for perfect execution. A clean, professional cab.
Lucid: for excellent plans. The quantity of cabinets built with his plans proves this.
Scott's Unicade: another great set of plans, you could build a house on that cab!
1Up: A technical breakthrough. It really jumpstarted the current trend of perfect cabs. Artwork, overall asthetics and solid design all come together to show you don't have to have a "frankenstein" anymore.

My personal inspirations:

The Gemini Project: I wanted a cocktail but I wanted to play a vast majority of games. Having 2 players face each other limits many games, then it came to me one day.... side by side controls on a cocktail! That very same day I found The Gemini project. This finalized the final plans and even gave me some dimensions! I can't thank Kelsey enough. Since then I've seen commercial plans that have built upon the side by side concept as well as Smack's cabinet uses the side by side design. It's the cabinet that got me started.

Scott's Unicade: For showing me by his own example that I could pull off using laminate for the first time. Thank's Scott, mine looks great!

AJM Mame: One of the first cabinets I remember having a complete set of classy artwork.

1UP: The cabinet that made my jaw drop open. I have to have this. This will be cabinet number 2. I've collected 90% of the controls, I just need the final funds to make this happen.

Frosty: To show subtle modifications of 1UP's design and that repeating that design CAN actually be done.

Carlos' Centipede: A classic reproduction packed full of technical innovations. A slick, motorized rotating monitor that's still pretty! An overlooked cabinet! My inspiration to make a classic reproduction (Defender) and pack it full of technical innovation (a 1UP and Frosty Hybrid)

And of course BYOAC for bringing it all together.

Why do I feel like I've just made a speech at the OSCAR's?
"I'd like to thank all the little people that made all this happen......" ;)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: armad1ll0 on September 12, 2003, 03:54:30 am
how can you nominate yourself?  Your cabinet was inspirational to building your cabinet?

err... ::)

I think people are confusing "inspiration" with "nominate the best cabinet and controls".....


Didn't you also nominate your own panel?
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Dartful Dodger on September 12, 2003, 06:54:11 pm
I agree with everyone else, but I'd like to add Metal Mame. (http://www.arcadecontrols.org/yabbse/index.php?board=10;action=display;threadid=9502) That's the first time I saw chrome t-molding... This has given a classic car guy inspiration to build the classy garage cabinet.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Valiam Arkais on September 13, 2003, 02:16:13 pm
My votes:

Jubei:Rob's Arcade Cabinet
http://cmdrtaco.net/jubei/
*A clean decent site and it was the one that first inspired me.


LuSiD's Arcade Flashback
http://users.adelphia.net/~seanhat/arcade/
*Had to read this site about a dozen times, good quality information.

Chad's Invasion Web Site
http://people.smu.edu/cmadding/mame/
*Good long descriptions on this site about what to look out for, and what to do right.

Thanks to all who provide pictures and details,

-V.A.

Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: planetjay on September 14, 2003, 04:42:47 pm
Hmmm. No one mentioned the World's First MAME Cockpit (may it rest in peace). I guess it was the least inspirational...
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Sshado on September 16, 2003, 12:19:15 pm
I have to nominate the two that inspired me to build mine.  First goes to 1-up's (http://www.1uparcade.com/), I loved his rotating panels, but it was the shape that I modified and used.

Also, I liked the oak arcade  (http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/arcade/) and used Oak while building mine.

For graphics, and coolness, I have to mention the Mametrix (http://www.the-mametrix.com/index2.htm), awesome theme with rotating panels ala 1-up.

I am also looking forward to Hulkade (http://www.birdtales.com/marquee.jpg)
An honorable mention would have to go to Supercade (http://www.cybercoma.com/supercade/)

_________________________________________________
Sshado

Someday, I will finish my website:  http://www.sshado.com

here is a pic of mine though:  Sshado's Arcade (http://www.sshado.com/images/sshadocade/close2.JPG)

Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on September 19, 2003, 04:40:24 am
Hmmm. No one mentioned the World's First MAME Cockpit (may it rest in peace). I guess it was the least inspirational...

What would it inspire people to do?  Make firewood?
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: JayTea on September 19, 2003, 03:21:18 pm
Since this is a top 20 and not a top 5  and I'm a conceited bastard, I vote for one of mine!  :)

Raylaga
http://www.licoricepizza.com/ralaga.html

heh heh...
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Brax on September 19, 2003, 07:55:11 pm
Since this is a top 20 and not a top 5  and I'm a conceited bastard, I vote for one of mine!  :)

Raylaga
http://www.licoricepizza.com/ralaga.html

heh heh...


Quote from: SirPoonga on September 02, 2003, 11:35:16 PM
how can you nominate yourself?  Your cabinet was inspirational to building your cabinet?
 
 
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: JayTea on September 19, 2003, 11:49:06 pm
Since this is a top 20 and not a top 5  and I'm a conceited bastard, I vote for one of mine!  :)

Raylaga
http://www.licoricepizza.com/ralaga.html

heh heh...


Quote from: SirPoonga on September 02, 2003, 11:35:16 PM
how can you nominate yourself?  Your cabinet was inspirational to building your cabinet?
 
 


Uhh, sorry if I misled, I wasn't being too serious :)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: SirPoonga on September 22, 2003, 01:43:53 am
You people are funny.  Saint, when is this going to finished?  Also, what about the tshirt?
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: DeathMonk on September 25, 2003, 10:20:35 am
LuSid's Arcade Flashback

Scott's Unicade

DeathMonk's MameStation  :P
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: mh208 on October 01, 2003, 09:31:39 pm
Lusids was deffinately the first one to inspire me to build my own cab.
 
Salty's, Scotts, and Roswell helped fuel the inspiration, and 1up had me think outside the box (or in this case, cabinet).

Pretty much comes down to any project I see gives me ideas of to do or what not to do.

Hate to sound so P.C., (or like I'm trying to suck up to everyone that ever built a cabinet) but it's really how I view each of these projects.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: Todd H on October 13, 2003, 03:29:58 pm
I've gotta vote for The Ultimate Arcade Machine at http://netbox.home.mindspring.com/arcade/ as well.  This is the cab that inspired me way back when.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: dphirschler on October 17, 2003, 11:39:43 am
I have to nominate Rosewell.  As somebody else pointed out, it's a clean, professional job.  It had the swapable cpanels, and completely abandoned any image or inspriation from the MAME logo.

My own cabinet will have swapable cpanels, and use the same Phoenix cabinet dimensions.  It will be called "Blow'd Up!".


Darryl
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: TrickyFishy on October 18, 2003, 12:33:47 pm
Definitly these:

1UP (most definitely inspirational)
http://www.1uparcade.com  

MiniPac (*love* this one. don't know who built)
http://pacfan69.tripod.com/cabinets/id6.html

Happy Hour (this one is great. Oscar built?)
http://www.skum.org/bartop/finish.htm
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: vevvavoom on October 20, 2003, 09:34:07 am
Although plans of this table aren't available - the best looking cocktail cabinet is www.digitaltables.co.uk (http://www.digitaltables.co.uk).  A word of warning though - this table has some design features that are not easy to replicate in a homebrew cabinet.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: GSXRMovistar on October 20, 2003, 12:53:07 pm
Although plans of this table aren't available - the best looking cocktail cabinet is www.digitaltables.co.uk (http://www.digitaltables.co.uk).  A word of warning though - this table has some design features that are not easy to replicate in a homebrew cabinet.

To be honest I would say putting a cocktail like that together would be a lot easier than most uprights, just looks more complicated due to all the fancy bits like the legs.

You could probably pick up a set of legs like that from a coffee table out of ikea, not to mention it could be built for a hell of a lot less than the 3K they charge.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: 1UP on October 21, 2003, 02:47:20 am
Although plans of this table aren't available - the best looking cocktail cabinet is www.digitaltables.co.uk (http://www.digitaltables.co.uk).  A word of warning though - this table has some design features that are not easy to replicate in a homebrew cabinet.

Well, it might look pretty, but I guarantee you that playing with those controls they way they're mounted will cripple you.  Unless you're lying under it and watching the screen on a ceiling mounted mirror...  :P
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: BeagleBob on October 21, 2003, 09:02:36 am
Here are my choices.

1.  Jubei - This is the arcade that made me think I could do it, although there wasn't enough info to actually build one.

2.  Lusid's - Because he had good data and plans to get moving!

3.  Doughcade (http://www.claydough.com/doughcade/) - Because Clay's cab looks clean and is complete.  Plus the man had the foresight to put drink holders on his cab.

Tons of others were isnpirational, I haven't found an all inclusive site yet (some are close).  If anyone is interested, here is the results of my cabinet:  http://thebbox.dhs.org   ;)

Brad
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: snekse on October 23, 2003, 11:59:12 am
1Up's cabinet was the one that made me decide to start building.  The rotating CP solved the problem that was preventing me from building and the entire cabinet was just TOO COOL!  Plus the Star Wars yoke made me drool.

Frosty's Arcade is another great site.  His 2 piece cabinet design and control panel layout will probably be the closest to my final design.

Who ever did the first rotating monitor!  At this point I'm not planning to use a rotating monitor, but just to see that gets my creative juices flowing and helps me think of other creative things to do with my cab.


HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Supercade had another really innovative design.  If I wasn't going to build a rotating CP I would strongly consider this one.  The only drawback I see is the backsplash being so close to the trackball.  Not very Golden Tee friendly. If you don't play Golden Tee, then no big deal :-)

The Mametrix has such a cool site that it just helps pump you up and get you in the mood to build a cab.  Plus it's such a great name.  

Mamecast and everyone else who've put a lot of time and effort into their artwork to make their cabs look spectacular.

 ;D
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: owlicks on November 05, 2003, 01:42:37 pm
I had to nominate a project that I don't think has been mentioned here yet; the Yet Another MAME Arcade Machine project at http://www.robboweb.com/mamecab/ (http://www.robboweb.com/mamecab/)

For one the guy made a decent easy to navigate website (I'm a web designer by trade, heh).  This project though inspired me to make a cabinet that looked professional and happened to be run by a computer, not something that really looked amaturish.  The main idea behind building a MAME cabinet for me was to make something that looked professionaly done and like it would fit in just normal in an arcade, and this project had a great finish to it.  The beauty is in the little details.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: namzep on November 14, 2003, 07:13:59 am
Scott's Unicade provided the first nudge and great information for the building of my (still in progress) cabinet.  I also have to agree with everyone who has said Lusid.  I think his cabinet design has been used by 50% + of the arcade building community.  1UPs cab is great (love the removable controls) but beyond my limited wood working skill.  Maybe the next one.   ;D
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: saint on November 14, 2003, 01:20:21 pm
Look at this page:
http://www.digitaltables.co.uk/pictures.htm

It looks like the control panel pops up for playing and then down when not in use, though I couldn't find anywhere on the site where they actually discuss it.  

Although plans of this table aren't available - the best looking cocktail cabinet is www.digitaltables.co.uk (http://www.digitaltables.co.uk).  A word of warning though - this table has some design features that are not easy to replicate in a homebrew cabinet.

Well, it might look pretty, but I guarantee you that playing with those controls they way they're mounted will cripple you.  Unless you're lying under it and watching the screen on a ceiling mounted mirror...  :P
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: hyiu on November 18, 2003, 03:24:56 pm
I'm not sure... but it seems like the ctrl panel that pops up is a 2 player fighter panel....

the panel that stays down is a 1 player classic layout panel...

maybe different panel is at different angle ??...
(its an option when you buy ??...)
or matybe even switchable panel ??..


Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: MameMaster! on November 19, 2003, 11:02:28 am
....this may have been addressed in the past...but is there an archive of the "first" mame cabs?....or anyone who thinks that they were one of the first real pioneers?

I for one thought I was a genius when I thought to take an old cab and rebuild it with my DreamCast....it only took a short web search to find this site and realize that I there are hundreds of cabs out there (I'm still impressed at the creativity out there...this is such a fun hobby).

....anyone willing to step up with a "pioneering" cab pic?

The MameMaster!  ;)
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: RetroJames on November 21, 2003, 10:21:09 pm
....this may have been addressed in the past...but is there an archive of the "first" mame cabs?....or anyone who thinks that they were one of the first real pioneers?

I for one thought I was a genius when I thought to take an old cab and rebuild it with my DreamCast....it only took a short web search to find this site and realize that I there are hundreds of cabs out there (I'm still impressed at the creativity out there...this is such a fun hobby).

....anyone willing to step up with a "pioneering" cab pic?

The MameMaster!  ;)


Nannu had an NES cabinet he built as a teen on his site.  I think he's in his 30's so that would be an early console cab.  Cant find the link but it is there and pretty dang cool.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: HagHore on November 22, 2003, 04:26:30 pm
Quote


Nannu had an NES cabinet he built as a teen on his site.  I think he's in his 30's so that would be an early console cab.  Cant find the link but it is there and pretty dang cool.
Quote

www.willyliliana.com for Nannuu's Nintendo cab, built it 17 years ago when he was 13.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: patrickl on November 22, 2003, 06:48:26 pm
Perhaps all my nominee's (in the cabinet category) where mentioned already, but what the heck:
1) 1UP (http://www.1uparcade.com) - Just a fantastic website with a lot of attention to detail
2) Carlos' Centipede (http://home.neo.rr.com/martinko/mame.htm) - Glad to see someone who (like me) wanted to build a lookalike of an original cabinet (and succeeded)
3) Tom Bombaci's DomPAC (http://www.myuselessprojects.com/dompac/index.html) - I just loved the kidsized Pacman cabinet and would hope to be able to build one for my kid when he is old enough to play

Besides those I was also quite inspired by the pages describing original cabinets and their restorations:
- Wouter's page  Arcade Cabinet dimensions (http://retro.co.za/arcade/cabinet.html)
- Apollo.com Galaga '88 restoration (http://www.appolo.com/collection/galaga88/galaga88.htm)
- Mametrix artwork (http://www.mametrixreloaded.com/graphics.html)
- euro-arcade Galaga mania (http://www.euro-arcade.de/galagamania/index_e.htm)
- even ebay for the pictures people post of their cabinets or parts on auction
- it's probably no use mentioning this site, but I guess it's the biggest help of em all!
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: BLACK KNIGHT on November 26, 2003, 04:10:54 pm
I have to nominate Zaphod's arcade.  http://mtrello1.tripod.com/

It's simple, clean, and it works...and it was built around an X-arcade.  He also has it pretty well documented on how to build it.  All perfect info. for a newbie like myself who built their arcade cabinet based off of his design.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: crashwg on November 27, 2003, 02:27:18 am
Until a few days ago I would have voted for 1up, but he took the plans away  :'(
but i guess i'll give him a half a vote anyway
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: BLACK KNIGHT on November 27, 2003, 09:29:46 am
Huh?  The plans are still there.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: patrickl on November 27, 2003, 08:27:11 pm
They are gone ...
Quote
Since I have gotten so many requests after I took my plans down, I have a deal.  While I still can't offer the plans for free any more, I may offer a more complete version (including front and back measurements, control panel measurements, and a parts list) for sale on the site.
My inspiration didn't come from the plans though. Just looking at the photo's just gave me the idea "Hey I could probably do that too" much more than any sketch ever could.
Title: Re:Nominate a project for the Top 20 most inspirational example projects
Post by: mrmoomoo on December 01, 2003, 09:08:36 pm
well the one everyone else have mentioned are great...


but i think there is one lacking Jakobud's

his machine is simple, clean and very attractive...
his machine was the first that i looked at and has inspired the building of my own!