Weighted companion cab (need advice!)

[glonq]

I'd like to build an LCD-based bartop like this, with a detached CP.  3/4" MDF, 24"x24" sides:



...but I'm not sure how to deal with the angle of the screen.  If I set the screen back at a steep angle, it'll work great for tall players or low surfaces.  Like the WeeCade.  If I keep the screen near-perpendicular (like this), it'll work better for shorties (my kids), tall surfaces, and for using it as a PC or a TV (Windows MCE).

So rather than decide on a fixed angle like 10 degrees and maybe regret it, I'm thinking about hinging the front panel so that the angle of it (and therefore the screen) is adjustable.  Any ideas how I can accomplish this?  I can think of two things: (1) A piano hinge running along the underside of the front panel, connecting it to the bottom panel, or (2) pins or bolts running through each side panel into the front panel (see where I drew a green dot on the pic).  Which idea is most feasible?  I'm mostly worried about what'll support the weight of the 3/4" MDF front panel plus the LCD that's mounted to it (somehow).  But if the front panel touches the

If the front panel is hinged, I guess the top panel will act as a stop to keep it from going too far back.  But when the front panel is hinged forward, that'll leave a gap open at the top.  I can live with that, unless somebody can thing of something more elegant.

BTW, any idea how I can attach the LCD to the front panel without using the bottom or sides?  Some sort of semi-adjustable (or forgiving) LCD support/holder/bracket

[dmworking247]

There's a much easier option.

Angle it back the way adults would use it (first pic), and put chocks under the back of it (perhaps collapsible mini-legs) to angle the whole box forward if you've got shorties playing it.

[Stobe]

Easier but not as cost effective:  build 2 

[dmworking247]

Its easier to build another one than put some chocks under it?

Man you need to teach me some building techniques then 

[Stobe]

Its easier to build another one than put some chocks under it?

Man you need to teach me some building techniques then 

You have to look long-term at the big picture.

Kid Playing Bartop = Me Not Playing Bartop