Building your own arcade controls isn't for everyone.  Tools, expertise, time, convenience... some folks just want to buy something and hook it up.  This page is for you!

 
 

	Arcade Cabinets
	Arcade Control Consoles
	Project Components

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

http://www.geocities.com/arcade_joystick/
http://www.arcadeshopper.com/
http://search-desc.ebay.com/search/search.dll?MfcISAPICommand=GetResult&query=mame&categoryid=&ht=1&category3=13715&srchdesc=y&SortProperty=MetaEndSort&BasicSearch=
 
 
 
 
 

The fact that a vendor is listed on this page should not be taken as an endorsement.  There have been vendors who have closed up shop or had horribly slow response times on delivering orders.  At least one vendor appears to have taken people's money and run.  HOWEVER - they really are the exceptions and not the rule.  Several have been honest vendors who couldn't keep up with demand, and so closed up shop after satisfying all their present sales requirements.

Generally though, the vendors currently mentioned in this FAQ are great people to work with.  Several regularly offer their expertise for free on the message board, giving away advice and techniques that could conceivably be costing them in lost sales opportunities.  Whenever possible, I post feedback both good and bad in the reviews section of the main FAQ.

The best place to get opinions on a vendor you're thinking of doing business with is on the message board.  Also, I'd strongly urge you to do two things:  1. Pay by credit card - this gives you various protections.  2. Insist that the vendor not charge your card until the product actually ships.

SUGGESTION:  Before you do business with a vendor, ask on the message board as to their current status.  Things tend to change quickly :)  Also - if you've had noteworth service, be it good or bad, post it for all to see!

 

	HotRod ArcadePC Cabinets
	Mas Systems
	Arcade Solutions Arcade Cabinets	-=* Not taking cabinet orders presently *=-
	Ultimate Arcade Machine's custom cabinets

Jump to all Arcade Control Consoles

 

	HotRod Joysticks
	PowerRamp	-=* No longer being produced :( *=-
	Mas Systems
	Arcade Solutions Joystick Controllers	BACK IN BUSINESS!
	OzStick
	XGaming's X-Arcade

Not sure about this section.  Probably redundant as all components are discussed in their respective areas, controls, interfaces, etc...
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Side-By-Side Comparison at a glance

This piece has been deleted.  Keeping up with changes proved difficult rendering this almost worthless.
 
 

(Click for a larger view)	(Click for a larger view)
HotRod, Stick-It, and CustomArcade	Side by side

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HotRod Classic Joystick

The HotRod site no longer sells this model of "The Ultimate Joystick Control."  You might still find one in an aftermarket somewhere, but all new sales are of the SE model below.  "HotRod plugs right into your PC's keyboard and needs no additional hardware, software drivers, or external power to operate."  They have two versions of the HotRod available.  The founder is another regular contributor to the message board and a great guy.  From their web page:

• The HotRod measures 24" wide, 11" deep, and 6" tall and weighs approx... 15-16lbs.
• HotRod is a digital joystick. This gives the players the best nanosecond response times while playing with the fastest of todays computer hardware and software.
• HotRod -classic model has 10 independent arcade style microswitch buttons, 2x8-way arcade style microswitch joysticks, and player one and two start buttons.
• All HotRod models use the Happ(tm) 'super' 8 way joysticks.
• Made in the USA, with a 6 month workmanship warrantee.
• Currently HotRod has PC (ps/2) support.  USB support is in the works.
• Future versions such as keyboard programmability are in the works.


HotRod SE Joystick

This is HotRod's fighting style version of the joystick.  This appears to be the most popular model, has 7 buttons per player.

• The HotRod measures 24" wide, 11" deep, and 6" tall and weighs approx... 15-16lbs.
• HotRod is a digital joystick. This gives the players the best nanosecond response times while playing with the fastest of todays computer hardware and software.
• HotRod -SE model has 16 independent arcade style microswitch buttons, 2x8-way arcade style microswitch joysticks, and player one and two start buttons.
• All HotRod models use the Happ(tm) 'super' 8 way joysticks.
• Made in the USA, with a 6 month workmanship warrantee.
• Currently HotRod has PC (ps/2) support.  USB support is in the works.
• Future versions such as keyboard programmability are in the works.


Places you can get support on the HotRod
 

	Build Your Own Arcade Controls Message boards, of course!
	The Hanaho site itself
	The HotRod Unofficial Support Page This site includes among other things a message forum, and downloadable configuration files for various emulators designed to work with the HotRod.

Places you can purchase the HotRod:

Direct from Hanaho
PC-Idea
ComputersWorth occasionally has them.
A.D.F. informatique
 

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A company called XGaming.com sells a product called the X-Arcade - a two stick, 18 button desktop arcade joystick console.  It comes native with PC/Mac support for $150.  For an additional $24.95 per interface, you can add adapters for N64, PSX, and the Sega Dreamcast.  From their web site:
 
Original Happ Controls, for that authentic arcade feel and durability.  The new Xport™ external add-on allows the Home Arcade to be used on all major console systems.

18 buttons, for any gaming situation.  Includes two on the side for pinball, as well as player 1 and 2 selection buttons, fully replicating the arcade look.

The Home Arcade Joystick is a PC based model on the original arcade control panel designed for home use. It plugs right into the back of your PC, through the PS/2 keyboard port in between the keyboard and the PC. The Home Arcade Joystick is a low-level bios input device, and it simulates a keyboard to your computer. It was designed to replicate that classic arcade feel using retrogaming emulation programs such as M.A.M.E., Retrocade, and commercial release titles such as Microsoft's™ "Return of the Arcade", and "William's Classic Arcade hits". Home Aracde simulates that "real" classic arcade experience, by using real commercial grade arcade components, that are actually”overkill" for the home market. However, it produces a nice effect for that avid classic gamer who demands that authentic play. It is a very unique joystick, unlike any regular joystick you will find on the market. It is capable of playing 1 to 2 player games side by side with your friends, or complex arcade games that require dual joystick usage and can take the newest title releases to the next level. The unit has been rated the top controller for 2 PLAYER GAMES, as it adds serious head to head action with it’s unique layout.<p> The unit is recommended and highly suggested for users of the MAME Emulator, which allows you to play virtually any arcade game on your PC.
 

They sell in the US and UK, for $149 US, with deal occasionally showing up on ebay.  Check out our review!  Other reviews linked on the reviews page.  If you're interested in purchasing one, and start at this link, we receive a small commission on the sale.

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I've been tracking this vendor for well over a year to see if they'd show any signs of life, and had given up hope.  Lo and behold, I get an email from Glenise that they've finally done so, and in a big way!  Thanks Glenise!  Check out what they're pitching:

• Arcade cabinets!  They have custom arcade cabinets available not only for JAMMA, but they can also accomodate PSX, Dreamcasts, N64s, etc...  They feature Wells Gardner RGB monitors, come in a variety of sizes and options, and run from $995 to $1195.  They also support . . .
• The Super Pro.Stick!  This is a 10 button, single joystick controller designed to support multiple systems, including PSX, N64, Saturn, NeoGeo, Dreamcast digital and analog, and soon IBM-PC compatibles - fully programmable!  Currently going for $79.95, with an additional $30 per each additional system.

Mas Systems offers a lot more than this (check out their build-your-own Dreamcast VGA Audio/Video Adapter), be sure to stop by!  UPDATE - good luck ever getting them to return an email - try the phone instead.

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Arcade solutions takes orders in an on again off again basis - email them to see their current status. 

This site offers an incredible variety of custom designed arcade control consoles.  The founder is also a regular contributor to the message board and a great guy.  A brief summary of the custom-built arcade joysticks:

Stand Alone Joystick Controls

 
• Will interface not only to PC's, but also to Playstation, NES-64, Sega Saturn, C= 64, Amiga, Atari computers and Atari 2600, and the Bally Astrocade, *OR* a multi-unit system that will interface to more than one computer/console!
• Now offering USB compatible controllers!
• Options include Happ Controls trackball, fully programmable buttons and two joysticks, and spinners.
• Custom built to your specifications


Wow!  An awesome looking getup if you want one but don't want to build your own :)  Being a specialist in customized products, the above information may be out of date.  Check their web site for up to date information.  Check out reviews of their products.

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Enter the OzStick!  The OzStick is a slick looking single arcade desktop joystick, with 4 buttons, interfaced to the game port.  They offer 3 different button layouts, and feature Happ Controls Ultimate joysticks and pushbuttons.  They cost $125 AUS (roughly $73 US) including postage and handling, and are only available COD.  Obviously, they are based in Australia.   I'd love to hear feedback from anyone purchasing from them!

ArcadePC

HotRod Mini ArcadePC Cabinet - HotRod's product line includes three awesome looking arcade cabinets.  The Ultra (mini), the Deluxe (full sized) and the Mega (cocktail).  They use real arcade hardware, and supports hot-swappable control panels allowing you to configure your gaming experience on-the-fly.  There are multiple options you can choose as well.  Be sure to check out their web site to verify up-to-date pricing and information.  From their site:

ArcadePC Standard package
 

 

Built-in 19" Wells-Gardner Hi-Res SVGA Monitor (SVGA)	($400+ value)
Hidden pullout keyboard/mouse drawer	(included)
Leg levelers/Cabinet fans/4x4 (2) speakers	(included)
Locks and keys	(included)
Coin door sticker	(included)
HotRod ArcadePC marquee with light and fixtures	(included)
Monitor Bezel/Tempered Glass	(included)
Blank Control panel (with polycarbonate overlay)	(included)
Total price	$798.95

ArcadePC Options
 

HotRod -classic Joystick panel (HotRod Technology)	$129.95
HotRod -SE Joystick panel (HotRod Technology)	$159.95
Coinco Coin Door and Cash Box	$89.95
Upgrade on Speakers (includes wire harness)	$49.95
PCB w/P-II chip, Harddrive, Floppy disk and Power Supply	$595.95

Arcade Solutions

Arcade Solutions is no longer taking cabinet orders.  They may in the future.  Contact them for current info.

This site offers an incredible variety of ready-made products for sale.  Way too much to fully detail here, but in a short nutshell... They offer full sized custom-built MAME cabinets, custom-built arcade joysticks, and genuine multi-game-switchable arcade cabinets.  The founder is also a regular contributor to the message board and a great guy.  A brief summary of the MAME cabinets:

Full sized MAME arcade cabinet

 
• Prices start at $1150 and work their way up depending on options
• 19" Wells Gardner arcade monitor (using standard VGA inputs I believe)
• Marquee, lights, all the "arcade cabinet" touches
• Hagstrom KE24 keyboard encoder for progammability
• Two 8-way joysticks
• Trackball
• 6 buttons per joystick
• Extra buttons for miscellaneous functions
• Functional coin acceptor


Wow!  Definitely pricey, but an awesome looking getup if you want one but don't want to build your own :)  Being a specialist in customized products, the above information may be out of date.  Check their web site for up to date information.  Anyone with any experience with these folks, please send me FEEDBACK! :)

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STATUS UNKNOWN - DOWN FOR REMODELING?

MrArcade is a regular on the message board and has built numerous cabinets on the examples page.  As a sideline, he's built and is willing to build custom arcade cabinets for folks.  Email him for details, but to see samples of his work check out his projects.  Ultimate Arcade Mark I.  Ultimate Arcade Mark II.  Ultimate Arcade Mark III (cocktail model).  Ultimate Arcade Mark IV.  Ultimate Arcade Mark V. Ultimate Arcade Mark VI.  Ultimate Arcade Mark VII.
 

TwistyGrip

The rights to the TwistyGrip product line has been sold to CustomArcade.  This information is left here for posterity.  TwistyGrip products can be purchased from CustomArcade.  TwistyGrip's original web site with how-to instructions on building your own spinners is still available.

The Twisty Grip page started as a StarWars style yoke controller.  They have since expanded to offer blueprints, spinners, and free build-your-own spinner instructions.  The creator is a great guy, with quick responses to my emails, and is another contributor to the message board.  Nothing but good reports on TwistyGrip.

From their web page:
 

In 1983 Atari created one of the biggest arcade hits of all time: Star Wars.  The game was state-of the art for its time because it had high speed vector graphics, digitized speech and music, but most of all...it had a controller that gave its players complete and total control over firing and maneuvering
at the same time!
------------------------------------------
This special "yoke" allowed the player to maneuver around obstacles and fly through tiny openings in walls while flying at warp speed, plus it had a comfortable two-fisted grip that twisted like this.

By 1997 the game was headed towards oblivion.  Fortunately, today's personal computers were able to play the original Star Wars program for free.  They used a special program called Mame. But that special controller was nowhere to be found.

...until now.

Twisty-Grip is a yoke that acts like an analog joystick!  It uses a two-handed grip to control the X and Y position of a game.  It has a trigger for each finger and a fire button for each thumb.   The electronics of the yoke are identical to a 4-button, 2-axis joystick. Currently, some MAME-emulated games have trouble with a joystick (e.g. RoadBlasters and Super-Sprint ).  If you want to use the yoke with an unlisted game, make sure you can play the game with a joystick first.  The Twisty-Grip connects via joystick port.

CustomArcade

VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

The heart behind CustomArcade is modularity...  Their control systems can be purchased in a variety of ways - a control panel top only (controls, no interface or box), panel with interface (no box), or panel with interface and box.  They have 4 different panel configurations presently, all which use the same interface and fit the same box.  Purchase one complete system, and all you need to purchase from then on is the control panel tops, saving you the cost of the electronics and box should you want multiple control panels.  Additionally, their control panels fit into their CustomArcade cabinet should you choose to upgrade!

The consoles range from $135 to $325 depending on which options you choose and whether you purchase the panel alone or electronics/box.  Available options include multiple joysticks (4 way, 8 way, and top fire), spinners and trackballs, as well as "vibration detection" technology for pinball games.

The interface is a KE72T keyboard encoder from Hagstrom Electronics, which is capable of 72 discrete inputs meaning no ghosting.  The consoles come in an incredible array of colors, literally hundreds of choices, some at the standard cost, some at a premium.

CustomArcade is also the only place you can purchase the StarWars Yokes originated by TwistyGrip.

CustomArcade is the brainchild of Ray Iddings, a great guy and regular contributer to the message board.  Definitely a system to consider, and on my short list!  Visit their reviews.

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

Web site has disappeared!
 

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

This controller is made specifically for MAME, using a keyboard hack with a controller from Fry's Electronics, and parts from Happ Controls.  With 3 weeks of testing, he has found no problems with keyboard ghosting.  Read my review for another perspective.  2 joysticks, coin up, escape, 1 plr, 2 plr, and 6 control buttons (3 each joystick).

I was fortunate enough to get my hands on one, check out my hands-on review here :)

BUYER BEWARE- Stick it has not responded to emails or delivered their new product in several months.  I would avoid purchasing from them until they are heard from again.

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PRODUCT OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

The PowerRamp is a stand-alone joystick available from Actlabs. It has an arcade quality "digital ball and rod" joystick with 14 programmable buttons. It uses the keyboard port with a passthrough interface meaning you get both joystick and keyboard functional via the keyboard port. From their web site:
 

"This stick is the weapon of choice for PC action games. Every single button can be programmed and customized the way you like. The ramp was the first PC arcade stick on the market."

It has gotten decent reviews from the folks at Dave's Classics, both to be used "as-is" and also as a start for designing your own controls.

    See reviews of the PowerRamp.
    See head to head reviews of the PowerRamp vs. the V-Stick.

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

The POUNDER apparently is no longer in production.  The old information on it will be left for aftermarket info and/or in case it comes back.

The POUNDER is another stand alone arcade control set made by Douglas Prinn, and is available here.  From his web page: "The POUNDER has 8 real arcade buttons, a steel shafted arcade joystick. The chassis is metal, and the top is wood, just like a real arcade machine. No plastic here. OK, so the buttons are nylon. All controllers are fully tested, and have a 1 year warranty." The prices range from US $89 to $160 depending on model, and he will customize a product for you if desired.

The creator of the POUNDER has submitted an admittedly biased review which will help you get more of an idea what it's about - thanks Douglas!

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

The RetroStik is no longer for sale.  The creator of the RetroStik passed this message along to me:
 

Yea, I'm hanging it up after the 4 units left to be completed.  In the last 5 months, over 100 units have been shipped.  It's been fun, but I simply can't build them fast enough to keep up with demand, and I refuse to lower the quality of service of RetroSTIK like some companies.  Hiring help is really out of the question.  As soon as you hire even one employee it's unbelievable the amount of additional cost and paperwork.  Of course if anyone wants to buy RetroSTIK and continue to grow the market, they can contact me, but that's not where I want to go to.  It just wouldn't be fun anymore.


I'm leaving up the old information for RetroStik in case there's any aftermarket sales or it ever comes back...

RetroSTIK is an impressive looking stand alone arcade control system.  The creator of RetroSTIK is the one who suggested the diode solution to eliminating ghosting problems, and frequently lends his wisdom to the message board.  One of the great things about RetroSTIK that you can totally specify the configuration you want for your system.  The price may be outside of some people's range however.  Nothing but good reports from folks on RetroStik.

From their webpage:

RetroSTIK™ will function on virtually any PC by simply emulating a standard XT/AT or PS/2 keyboard.  It's been
tested in DOS and Windows 98/NT, but it should also work in OS/2, UNIX and it's variations.  It supports the
XT/AT keyboard standards, and with a plug adaptor, will also work on PS/2 systems.

If your RetroSTIK™ is equipped with "mouse-like" devices (like trackball, rotary joystick,  spinner) this requires a serial port and any standard mouse driver to function.

To program your RetroSTIK™, you must be able to run a DOS program.  The program has been tested under DOS and Windows 98/NT, but it should also work in OS/2, UNIX and it's variations.
 

This stick should go on sale sometime in November, 1998, and appears to be targetted for those who want the ultimate in personalized gaming systems.  FEEDBACK very much wanted from anyone who gets their hands on one.

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

The V-Stick is not presently accepting orders, and has not been for some time.  The old information will remain in case they do begin selling again.

The V-Stick is a stand alone arcade control set. It is a very slick looking product with a full-sized arcade cabinet control set feel. From the web site:
 

• - Dual 8-way digital arcade joysticks
• - Two buttons per joystick
• - Left and right-handed players supported (mirrored button layout)
• - Full-sized (23.5") arcade styled control panel
• - Plugs into any PC keyboard port - no joystick card required!
• - Computer keyboard remains fully operational
• - Compatible with most games
• - Heavy-duty construction with real arcade components"

 

The V-Stick's web site is here. People who have used the V-Stick seem very happy with it. However, it appears to be a one-man operation, so lag times between ordering and receipt of the device are reportedly high (3 months or more).
  See reviews of the V-Stick.

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

PC-ARCADE SEEMS TO HAVE DISAPPEARED

Another newcomer to the scene, PC Arcade is selling an arcade joystick for the pc available in two styles and 3 colors.  It's either a 1 or 2 joystick configuration, 4 buttons total either way, and I'm guessing a joystick hack though I could be wrong.  I've emailed the seller asking for more information.  It's $69.99 for the 1 stick, $99.99 for the 2 stick, and $10 for shipping domestically, $16 out of the states.

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VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

<< No longer in business >>

VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

<< No longer in business >>

Arcadium Arcade Gaming System

VENDOR OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

The Arcadium Arcade Gaming System by ArcadeWare is available with an impressive, albeit pricey, list of features!  It's a 74" tall arcade cabinet with a Pentium computer inside.  Right off the bat I'll share that it costs $5999 (yes, that's 6 grand), so it's mostly targeted at businesses and the idle rich!  Some of it's impressive features:
 

• Dual player control panel, 10 buttons per player.
• Trackball and spinner.
• Functionalcoin door.
• 25" VGA monitor.
• 10/100 Ethernet and phone connections.
• Lockable access to PC components (CD-ROM, etc).
• Joystick and USB ports for added components, such as yokes, steering wheels, etc...
• OS: Win98 with ArcadiumOS (their frontend I believe)
• 128 MB RAM, 8.3 gig HD, 40x CD-Rom
• Williams Arcade Classics and Midway Arcade's Greatest Hits bundled with cabinet.


There's a 30 day money back guarantee (10% restocking fee == $600) with a 1 year warranty.  Price does not include tax/shipping/handling.  Their web site still shows signs of being new, with several unfinished sections.  It's worth a visit even if the price tag scares you away :)  Anyone ordering one, please let me know!

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PRODUCT OUT OF BUSINESS.  LINK KEPT HERE FOR POSTERITY AND TO AVOID 404 ERRORS!

Here's a product that apparently's been available since 1999 for housing game consoles in an arcade cabinet.  From their web page:
 

The Havok's innovative circuitry transforms your home game system (Sony Playstation or Nintendo 64 - sold separately) Into what feels like a real arcade upright!

Standard Cabinet Features

• Wood grained melamine with T-moulding (selection of finishes).
• Polycarbonate control panel overlay for protection with easily legible button labels.
• Powerful lnternal fan will keep all your AV components cool.
• Spring loaded drawer (locking) opens with a slight touch for easy game change - will house a Nintendo64 or Sony Playstatlon - extra convenient storage for games, remotes, etc. in drawer.
• Will convert controls for up to two game systems - compartments for additional systems using external controllers.
• Front storage compartment (locking) with adjustable shelves for games, coin box, CD's, VCR tapes, and extra controllers.
• Can still use external controllers such as light guns and hand-helds if so desired.
• Feed-through notches allow drawer/door closure while external controllers are In use - also prevents theft of controllers.
• Wide compartment (locking) for up to 2 AV components - add your own CD jukebox, DVD. Karaoke, or sound system. Compartment has an adjustable shelf.
• Feed-through for Internet hookup. external speakers. etc.
• Leg levelers for greatest stability and casters for easy moving.
• Coax Input Jack - cable ready.
• Patent pending hydraulic tilt screen automatically tips to 90 degrees with the push of a button - helps kids see this screen, perfect for watching television, light gun games, or sit-down gaming.
• Removable control panel with digital AND analog controllers with over 20 buttons - Identical to the arcades - 2 players.
• Removable drink holders - will hold up to 40 oz. drinks.
• Five piece audio system from Cambridge Soundworks includes two internal + two external speakers with stands + powered subwoofer.
• Removable lighted marquee with easy access light switch - use our logo or Install a custom graphic, such as fraternity letters, family name, etc.
• Easy hookup design - setup takes less than 15 minutes!
• Easy access to television functions (channels, volume, menu, headphone, external AV Inputs).
• Custom bezel design make the television look like a real arcade monitor! No one will guess that you are using a TV.

25" TV Features
• S-video Input for superb picture quality - Up to 600 horizontal lines.
• Front and rear A/V inputs - easy access to front inputs and headphone output.
• Variable audio output jacks to connect to a hi-fi audio system.
• Universal remote control.
• Holds up to 181 pre-selected channels.
• Four video presets: standard/sports/movies/mild/custom.
• Dark tint picture tube improves color and picture contrast.

 

 

The Hovok System Master includes the standard cabinet, the 25" television, and the five speaker sound upgrade.  The cost is $2040, with $160 for shipping.  Anyone with experience with this cabinet please let us know!  Thanks to X-ian for the heads up!