Need help deciding on a monitor ..

[moundy]

     Hi, I've been designing a diy prototype cab for a few months now and found a presentation monitor(s) I thought would work well. NEC xm-2950plus . For better or worse I've committed to a vertical rotating design and think I'll have the slimmest design for a rotating 27" crt you can/could make . (I've taken in considerations for cooling, weight, loose parts, centering etc. ...others sugg. are welcome  ). If all goes right and I like the results , I'll build a second and possibly a third  But before I commit to buying these monitors I've made a list of my pro's and con's and would welcome any input even if it means a new design. BTW..I've only got a couple of days to decide before I go with the NEC .

note:  It'll be a vertical cab with the screen laid back anywhere from 15 to 25 deg. from perpendicular 90deg.

NEC XM-2950plus  29" (27" viewable) 1024 x 768 max res. presentation monitor.

http://www.avimages.com/equip/pdf/cv29b.pdf

http://www.necvisualsystems.com/Documents/UserManuals/xmxp29+.pdf

   Pros - my rotating design is built around this monitor.
        - no need for decasing or a bezel.
        - more resolution for higher resolution games and OS.
        - many inputs on the back.
        - has a remote.(and buttons on the front bezel at the bottom)
        - maybe the easiest for me to hook-up and install and incorporate.(but not sure, I'm a noob)
        - has built in handles on the side for moving and is stackable if needed.
        - sturdy build.
        - I can get 2 of them for $500.00

   Cons - I must drive over 200 miles to pick it up.
        - heavy 118 lbs.
        - used but no burn-in or scratches on the screen.(The case has a little scratch...non issue)
        - used but picture is still great.
        - used but cost $250.00 a piece.
        - no warranties but can test it upon pick-up.
        - TIME LIMIT to buy . Only 1 1/2 days to decide.
        - BNC connectors (noob + modding cables = )

27" Arcade Monitor / eg. Wells Gardner D9800 - 27" 800 x 600 max res. arcade monitor

   
   Pros  - A real arcade monitor
          - reviews are positive on performance on most models.
          - no driving . I can have it shipped.
          - 1 year warranty.
          - lighter than NEC
          - no case. Easier to work on if something goes wrong.
         
   Cons - not sure how some of the newer emulated games(ps2,gamecube,etc) would compare to the NEC.
          - Having hard time deciding on the right one .
          - price with bezel and shipping $490.00 (D9800) . Basically the price of the 2 NECs.
          - some complaints about reliability for some models and or customer support makes selection confusing .
          - I need to redesign my mount for rotating. A real pain but can do it.
          - I think it will be harder for me to handle and mount even though it will be lighter
            than the NEC XM-2950.

  Any input is welcome. Thanks and sorry for long first post.
           

[lilshawn]

Wells Gardner.... pro: fixable, schematics easily available...made from parts easily obtainable....lots of people have had experience with it,
NEC...con: may have unusual, custom parts... schematic may not be available... possibly no one here has had one...making fixing an issue hard.


i honestly, would de-case the NEC and place it in the cabinet...because i'm a physco and i think i could fix it if i had to.

for all intents and purposes, the NEC seems to have a 1-up, being that you can get 2 for 1.

the nec seems to have several options in regards to hooking things up.

just my random thoughts

[moundy]

    Actually , because of your post I did a search and found and downloaded the service manual . I can't believe it has the schematics and list of all the parts...!

    As far as decasing the NEC (if I go this route), my plans are based on not doing it. However the second build might be a different story . And besides, if I changed my mind later, I don't think I'll have too much trouble decasing and adjusting the mount . And I must be a little psycho myself because I feel compelled to make a rotating monitor without making the cab look too disproportionate . Good or bad I'm already committed to it . 

[lilshawn]

well, take lots of pictures and keep us updated!