Neo Geo Themed Multi-System Arcade Upgrade

[alexqts]

Thought i'd share my arcade build I have been working on since March. I wanted to build / upgrade a smaller style arcade machine for my home that could accurately play multiple systems easily without constantly messing with cables.

The machine was supplied new from Roll Model Arcade, a really solid cab with a front opening door and glass screen – very important to me. I spent ages looking for a suitable machine and this one exceeded all my expectations. I also wanted as close to original monitor size as possible without going CRT so opted for a 24” Unico panel together with the stock Pandora DX board via JAMMA wiring.

First step was to add a shelf, rewire power and add a Meanwell RT-125A PSU. I relocated the power strip further up inside the cabinet out of sight. Next was the addition of a Riddled TV 6-Way JAMMA switcher to handle my 4 chosen inputs.

Replaced all stock buttons with IL Concave in Neo Geo theme. I also fitted some Ultimarc J-Stik oval top joysticks (Sanwa JLW-TM-8 with easy 4-8 way switching).

I worked with Arcadeartshop.com to develop a custom Neo Geo Perspex/plexi marquee with switchable mini-marquee game inserts. I also relocated the LED’s for even light distribution.

Part 2 to follow....

 

[alexqts]

The cabinet did not have a stereo speaker set up, so I purchased a creative 2.1 system and installed it in the cab together with satellite volume control and line-level converter from the JAMMA loom. Growing MVS addiction:

After messing around with the Unico CGA input I decided that it was going to be best to route everything via HDMI. The machine currently runs:

• Custom Mister FPGA enclosure connected to J-PAC-C in Xinout mode, all powered via Jamma edge.
• Custom Batocera PC connected to J-PAC-C in Xinput mode.
• Neo Geo MVS 1 slot, routed via OSSC. Custom attenuated Jamma/scart cable made by Retro Gaming Cables.
• Dreamcast GDEMU and jamma adapter, routed via VGA to OSSC, powered via Jamma edge.

All of the HDMI is routed via an Extron switcher on Auto. So far I am happy with how everything is running. I mounted the systems to different coloured boards and added some LED lighting.

 

[alexqts]

It has taken many, many hours and also lots of teething issues but it is finally now possible to switch using P1&P2 start to any of the systems and have full video/sound and controller inputs!

Some pictures of the finished build....

Happy with everything for the time being, but I am sure that other upgrades will follow