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The Results
The results are, at least to this arcade enthusiast, breathtaking. The panel was perfect: constructed of laminated .75" MDF, with every hole and cut precisely where it should be. The cuts were so precise and crisp, in fact, that the edges were so sharp that I cut my fingers when holding the panel from the back access hole!. This isn't a criticism of the panel, but a compliment to the precision of the CNC equipment used to cut out the panel.
The Result
The panel is shipped flat-packed in sections, ready to be assembled using a post-and-cam system. This allows the panel to be put together in seconds while still managing to provide strong, sturdy construction.
Cam and Post Assembly
The placement of the post-and-cam mounting points is exceptional: you have easy access to all necessary points and yet they are all well hidden from the front of the panel.
In fact, the placement of the mounting pegs and cams on the bottom panel allow you to "pivot" the bottom panel out just by loosening the two mounts on the back panel. In theory you could even mount the bottom panel to a cab and just pivot the control panel up when needed, allowing for easy access for repairs and tweaking.
The bottom panel swivels down
The panel includes T-molding pre-installed around the edge of the top panel and side panels, which has the nice side effect of providing nice vinyl "skids" for the bottom edges of the panels, helping to prevent scuffs when the panel is, for example, placed on a coffee table.
T-molding is pre-installed
One of the first things I did with the test panel was to install trackballs. The pre-cut mounting areas and holes aligned perfectly with my trackball mounting plates for the Happ 2.25" and 3" trackballs.
Unfortunately, I didn't provide the correct measurements for the Betson and Wico 3" trackballs, whose extra large casings means that I'll have to "tweak" the design a bit to cut out a larger hole. This goof is entirely my fault, though — just be aware that non-Happ parts may have different mounting specifications than the controller templates provided with the program!
Precision cutouts for trackballs
One of the most impressive bits of CNC routing was the cutout for the 1.5" Happ trackball. It was millimeter-precise: the fit was a bit snug at first, but a quick swipe with sandpaper around the rim and I had a perfect fit.
A perfect routing job for the 1.5" trackball unit
Not only was the top hole perfectly cut for this trackball, but the bottom of the panel was routed out perfectly for the trackball casing. It's hard to describe just how accurate this routing was, but you can see from the photo below the precision of the cut.
Underside of the 1.5" trackball mounting area
One of the surprises Scott at MAMERoom had for me was an "engraved" RetroBlast logo on the top of the panel. The engraving was just deep enough to route out the formica overlay, revealing the MDF below. It's a neat trick, and shows the precision and versatility of the equipment used to create the panel. (Note that this type of engraving is not something you can add to a panel using the design software, although it might be added at a later date.)
Custom-etched artwork!
Conclusions
If you've got a great idea for a custom control panel project, and just don't have the woodworking skills (or equipment, or time...) this service is just the ticket. For $74.99 you can get a professionally cut panel, complete with T-molding, made exactly to your specifications.
The design software is also impressive and should be all you need for most panel designs, although it does have a touch of "version 1.0" feel to it. I feel a bit awkward criticizing the program, even a little, as it's already 90% of what any arcade enthusiast would need for designing the control panel of their dreams.
The design software is solid and I experienced no crashes, but I would like to see a bit more variety in terms of available controllers, panel shape editing, and import facilities. That said, Scott Glazer of MAMERoom is continuing to improve and expand the program, and has already made a great deal of refinements in the program. I predict good things.
Overall, I really have commend Scott for both the software and the service: it's a reasonably priced way to create a professional panel and it offers a great service to the arcade cabinet building community, and I predict even greater things to come. Recommended by RetroBlast.
Pros
- Versatile panel design
- A great price for a custom panel
- Excellent construction and quality
Cons
- Software lacks DXF import
- Somewhat limited design options
- Needs more controller mounting specs
MAMERoom Control Panel Design Service Video Review
