The difference between Hori Real Arcade Pro Sticks

[rec]

Nick and I have already bought the HRAP 3 (should arrive early next week). It's the latest gen Hori fighting stick with USB connection - this saves screwing around with adapters to play it on the PC.

It's basically the same as the HRAP 2 though... they're all very similar to be honest, but some have better parts than others, and some have modification limitaitons/restrictions... but the primary thing when making a decision is the connection. Getting one with USB means no need for an adapter, and no chance of lagged input via that adapter.

The black HRAP 3 can be purchased for $163 inluding delivery from Games-asia.com. Update: don't purhase anything from these wankers.

There aren't many left though, and once they're gone they're gone.

Play Asia has already sold out of the black and wont be getting them back in, but they stock the newer "Amazon Version " (the colours were chosen via poll at Amazon) which is white & black (no other difference other than the colour though), which is about $190 including postage.

Both the HRAP 3 and HRAP 3 Special Addition (which is blue & white) both have Sanwa sticks (arguably the best), but the SA has better push buttons (Sanwa instead of Hori). If you want the SA you'll need to track a second-hand one down because they're not sold new anymore. Besides, the best push buttons are from Seimitsu and can be installed into the standard HRAP 3 easily.

Edit: oh another thing, the HRAP 3, as mentioned in the specs above, can't have a Seimitsu LS-32 stick installed. The Special Addition model can. These days most people wouldn't want to anyway, as Sanwa sticks are preffered, but the LS-32 micro-switches mean you need to move the stick a little less to get a direction input registered. Some Japanese arcade machines still use these, and some people still preffer it.

[rec]

Just did a bit more reading... the HRAP EX (360 model) uses a different PCB to most of the others (JLF-TM-8T). Apparently this means modding is a huge pain in the arse, as it's not common ground for anything.

Unfortunately another shortfall here is that the stick doesn't have quick-disconnects from the PCB - they're soldered on.

Many people speak of replacing the PCB entirely if you want the EX and want to mod, but most people say avoid buying it in general as it's not only more inconvenient for modding, but means it's a cheaper design/construction.

So in short; definately get the HRAP 3 if you have even the slightest desire to mod, or find a second hand HRAP 3 SA if you're really keen on modding (which opens up more options for changing sticks due to the mount design).

[ResLo]

You have too much time on your hands

[rec]

I've got just as much as everyone else. I just spend it differently. :P

[Milenko]

Shopping for handbags, for instance.

[rec]

Handbags for your mother. I'm her cash-daddy. I give her what she wants, she gives me what I want.

[grandinferno]

Hilarious. lol

[Milenko]

rec Handbags for your mother. I'm her cash-daddy. I give her what she wants, she gives me what I want.

Daddy says no!

[rec]

A big thumbs-down ba-bow for Games-asia.com. I ordered the pair of Hori Real Arcade Pro 3's on Tuesday evening, which were said to be in-stock and usually ship within 24 hours. I paid via PayPal, which means payment was cleared immediately.

On Wednesday afternoon, almost 24 hours later, I recieved order confirmation which told me I'd be notified again when they're dspatched. It's now Saturday. I've e-mailed them 3 times since with no response what-so-ever, and no dispatch notice. I've even tried to call half a dozen times, and can never get through.

Now suddenly the product page says "Awaiting stock," which probably means I'll be waiting weeks if I get them at all (as no other online stores seem to be able to get the black HRAP3 back in, which probably means only the new white ones are being manufactured).

I've e-mailed requesting a refund or alternative resolution, but might have to take my business to Play-asia.com I think, where I'll be forced spend the bit extra and get the white model. :/

Don't suppose anyone else has had any dealings with Games-asia?

[grandinferno]

rec A big thumbs-down ba-bow for Games-asia.com. I ordered the pair of Hori Real Arcade Pro 3's on Tuesday evening, which were said to be in-stock and usually ship within 24 hours. I paid via PayPal, which means payment was cleared immediately. On Wednesday afternoon, almost 24 hours later, I recieved order confirmation which told me I'd be notified again when they're dspatched. It's now Saturday. I've e-mailed them 3 times since with no response what-so-ever, and no dispatch notice. I've even tried to call half a dozen times, and can never get through. Now suddenly the product page says "Awaiting stock," which probably means I'll be waiting weeks if I get them at all (as no other online stores seem to be able to get the black HRAP3 back in, which probably means only the new white ones are being manufactured). I've e-mailed requesting a refund or alternative resolution, but might have to take my business to Play-asia.com I think, where I'll be forced spend the bit extra and get the white model. :/ Don't suppose anyone else has had any dealings with Games-asia?

*kicks dog