Introduction
Building or upgrading a two-player arcade control panel does not have to involve complicated wiring, expensive controller hardware, or difficult software configuration. The EG STARTS Arcade 2 Player Zero Delay USB Encoder is designed to simplify that process by providing a practical connection between arcade-style joysticks, buttons, and a PC-based gaming system. With support for PC games, MAME, Raspberry Pi, and Arcade1Up-style projects, it targets builders who want a straightforward way to convert physical arcade controls into USB game-controller inputs.
The “professional streaming encoder Smart” keyword may sound more advanced than the product’s actual purpose, but the encoder can still be relevant to creators who stream retro gaming, arcade builds, demonstrations, or DIY gaming projects. Its zero-delay design is particularly useful for arcade controls, where responsive button presses and joystick movements matter. Instead of routing every control through a complicated custom electronics setup, the encoder provides a simple USB interface that can make a DIY arcade project much easier to assemble.
This model is designed for two-player configurations and includes three red power outputs along with 5-pin and Sanwa-style compatibility. That combination gives arcade enthusiasts flexibility when selecting compatible controls. Whether you’re constructing a custom cabinet, upgrading an existing control deck, or experimenting with a Raspberry Pi arcade project, this encoder offers a practical starting point.
Features
Two-Player Arcade Control Support
One of the main advantages of the EG STARTS encoder is its two-player configuration. Instead of designing an individual interface for each player, the board is intended to handle arcade controls for two users. This makes it suitable for traditional fighting games, beat-’em-ups, classic sports titles, racing games, and other multiplayer arcade experiences.
For a DIY arcade cabinet, having both players connected through one encoder setup can make the internal wiring considerably more organized. It also gives builders a clear structure for assigning joystick directions and button inputs.
Zero-Delay Design
Arcade gaming depends heavily on responsiveness. A button that feels instant in a menu may become noticeably frustrating when playing a fighting game or timing-sensitive platformer. The zero-delay approach used by this type of USB encoder is intended to minimize unnecessary input latency between the physical control and the computer.
Actual responsiveness can depend on the connected buttons, joystick hardware, USB connection, operating system, emulator configuration, and game itself. Nevertheless, an encoder focused on quick input recognition is a logical choice for arcade applications where immediate control feedback is important.
USB Connection to a PC
The USB interface is one of the most convenient aspects of this encoder. Once the arcade controls are wired correctly, the encoder can communicate with a compatible computer as a USB controller. This can reduce the amount of specialized electronics required for a basic arcade project.
For builders who are not interested in designing their own controller PCB, this approach is appealing. The encoder effectively acts as the bridge between traditional arcade input hardware and modern USB-equipped computers.
Compatibility with Arcade Projects
The product is positioned for use with PC games, MAME, Raspberry Pi, and Arcade1Up projects. That broad application range makes it useful for different kinds of retro-gaming builds.
MAME users, for example, can create a physical arcade interface around their emulation system. Raspberry Pi builders can similarly integrate arcade controls into compact retro-gaming machines. Arcade1Up owners or modders may also find this style of encoder useful when creating customized control configurations, provided the overall project wiring and compatibility requirements are satisfied.
5-Pin and Sanwa-Style Support
The inclusion of 5-pin and Sanwa-style compatibility is another important feature for arcade enthusiasts. Sanwa-style components are popular in arcade control builds because of their familiar dimensions, feel, and availability.
Before purchasing replacement parts, however, it is worth checking the exact connector configuration and physical compatibility of the joystick or button you intend to use. Arcade components can vary, and connector compatibility does not necessarily guarantee that every physical component will fit every control panel.
Three Red Power Outputs
The three red power outputs add another practical detail to the board layout. In an arcade control project, clear wiring organization can make installation and troubleshooting much easier. Having identifiable power connections helps builders understand where the electrical connections should be routed.
For someone assembling an arcade cabinet for the first time, keeping wiring neat is especially valuable. A clean internal layout makes it easier to identify individual controls later if a button needs replacement or a joystick requires troubleshooting.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports two-player arcade control setups | Requires careful wiring during installation |
| Designed for responsive zero-delay-style input | Compatibility should be checked with specific arcade components |
| USB connection simplifies PC integration | Not a complete arcade cabinet by itself |
| Useful for PC and MAME arcade projects | Advanced users may want more configurable controller hardware |
| Suitable for Raspberry Pi and selected Arcade1Up projects | Software button mapping may still be required |
| 5-pin and Sanwa-style compatibility adds flexibility | Wiring can be time-consuming for first-time builders |
Performance
Performance is where an arcade USB encoder needs to deliver its most important benefit: translating physical joystick and button movement into recognizable digital inputs without making the controls feel unnecessarily sluggish. For retro gaming, the difference between a clean input and a delayed or inconsistent input can affect the overall experience.
The EG STARTS encoder is designed around this basic requirement. Once the controls are connected and the USB interface is recognized by the host system, the encoder provides a direct path from the arcade hardware to the gaming device. This makes it particularly interesting for classic arcade emulation, where users often want the feel of physical controls rather than a standard keyboard or gamepad.
For fighting games, the joystick connection is especially important. Directional inputs need to register consistently when the player moves between combinations of left, right, up, and down. Likewise, action buttons should respond predictably during rapid gameplay. The encoder’s zero-delay-oriented design is therefore appropriate for users who prioritize responsive arcade controls.
Performance will ultimately depend on more than the encoder itself. The quality and condition of the joystick microswitches, buttons, wiring, USB cable, computer hardware, emulator settings, and game configuration can all influence the final experience. If an input feels inconsistent, it is worth checking the complete signal path rather than assuming the encoder is responsible.
PC Gaming Experience
On a PC, the major benefit is convenience. Rather than using a keyboard for every arcade title, a custom arcade control panel can provide physical buttons and a joystick that feel much closer to an original arcade machine.
Depending on the game, operating system, and configuration, users may need to map the encoder inputs before playing. Once the controls are configured, however, the resulting setup can be much more intuitive for arcade-style games.
MAME and Retro Gaming
MAME is one of the environments where a two-player arcade encoder makes considerable sense. Classic arcade games were designed around dedicated joysticks and buttons, so recreating that input arrangement can significantly change how an emulator feels compared with keyboard controls.
The encoder can be part of a larger MAME cabinet project that includes a monitor, computer, speakers, control panel, and cabinet enclosure. It is essentially one component of the control system rather than an all-in-one arcade solution.
Raspberry Pi Projects
Raspberry Pi arcade builds are another natural application. A compact single-board computer can run retro-gaming software while the encoder handles physical arcade inputs. This can help turn a small computer into the heart of a dedicated arcade station.
Users should still verify the software and operating-system configuration before beginning the build. Hardware compatibility and button mapping can vary between different Raspberry Pi operating environments and gaming distributions.
If you’re also planning a broader media or computer setup, you may find this Related Guide useful when organizing other external hardware around your system.
Installation and Setup Considerations
The installation process is relatively straightforward in concept, but first-time arcade builders should take their time with the wiring. Identify each joystick direction and button input before connecting everything permanently. Labeling wires can also be helpful if the project contains a large number of controls.
After connecting the arcade controls, connect the encoder to the computer using the appropriate USB connection. The host system should then recognize the interface as a controller input, after which game or emulator controls can be assigned.
A useful approach is to test each button and joystick direction before closing the arcade cabinet. Testing early makes troubleshooting much easier because every component remains accessible. If a particular input does not respond, inspect the connector, wire routing, switch, and mapping configuration.
Build Quality and Practical Design
For a DIY component like this, practicality matters as much as appearance. The encoder is intended to remain inside the arcade control panel, so its value comes primarily from functionality, wiring accessibility, and compatibility rather than from exterior styling.
The compact board-based approach also makes it easier to integrate into custom projects where internal space can be limited. Builders can position the encoder according to their cabinet design and route wires toward the player controls.
For creators building an arcade machine specifically for streaming, the encoder can also become part of a larger content-creation setup. A camera can capture the cabinet, while streaming software records the gameplay. In that scenario, the “professional streaming encoder Smart” concept is better understood as a project-oriented use case rather than a claim that this product is a video-streaming encoder. This EG STARTS device is primarily an arcade controller USB encoder.
Who Should Consider It?
This encoder is particularly relevant for DIY arcade enthusiasts, retro-gaming fans, Raspberry Pi builders, MAME users, and Arcade1Up modders who want to connect traditional arcade controls to a modern computer-based gaming system.
It can also be useful for someone replacing an older arcade control interface or creating a custom two-player control panel from individual buttons and joysticks. Its appeal is strongest when the goal is a relatively simple USB-based arcade input solution rather than a highly programmable professional controller platform.
For users who want extensive customization, additional configuration options, or advanced controller features, it is worth comparing the encoder’s capabilities with more sophisticated arcade controller boards. The right choice depends on how complex the project is and how much control you want over input configuration.
FAQ
Is the EG STARTS encoder designed for two players?
Yes. This model is designed for two-player arcade control configurations, making it appropriate for multiplayer arcade cabinets and control panels.
Can it be used with PC games?
Yes. The product is designed to connect arcade controls to a PC through USB. Individual games may require controller or button mapping before the controls work as intended.
Does it work with MAME?
It is intended for MAME-based arcade projects. You should configure the emulator to recognize and assign the connected joystick and button inputs correctly.
Can it be used with Raspberry Pi?
Yes, the encoder is marketed for Raspberry Pi arcade applications. Actual setup depends on the Raspberry Pi operating system and gaming software being used.
What does zero delay mean for an arcade encoder?
Zero delay generally refers to the encoder’s design goal of minimizing additional input latency between an arcade control and the host system. Actual responsiveness can still be affected by the connected controls, software, USB connection, and game.
Does it support Sanwa-style arcade components?
The product is designed with Sanwa-style and 5-pin compatibility in mind. Always verify the connector and physical specifications of your specific joystick or arcade component before installation.
Is this a video streaming encoder?
No. Despite the supplied “professional streaming encoder Smart” keyword, this product is an arcade controller USB encoder. It is designed to translate arcade joystick and button inputs into USB controller signals, not to encode video for livestreaming.
Is it suitable for a custom arcade cabinet?
Yes. A two-player USB arcade encoder can be a practical component for a custom cabinet. You will still need the cabinet, joystick and button hardware, computer or Raspberry Pi, display, power solution, and other components required for the complete build.
Should beginners use this encoder?
It can be a reasonable starting point for beginners who want to build a basic arcade control panel, but careful wiring and software configuration are still required. Testing every control before final cabinet assembly is recommended.
Final Thoughts
The EG STARTS Arcade 2 Player Zero Delay USB Encoder is focused on a specific task: connecting arcade-style controls to a USB-equipped gaming system. Its two-player configuration, PC and MAME orientation, Raspberry Pi support, and 5-pin/Sanwa-style compatibility make it a practical component for DIY arcade projects.
Its biggest appeal is simplicity. Instead of designing a controller interface from scratch, builders can use a dedicated arcade encoder as the connection point between physical controls and their gaming computer. The result can be a cleaner path toward creating a custom two-player arcade experience.
As with any DIY arcade component, the final result depends heavily on the quality of the connected buttons and joystick, the wiring, software configuration, and host platform. Buyers should therefore view the encoder as one important part of a larger arcade system rather than a complete solution by itself.
For anyone planning a PC, MAME, Raspberry Pi, or compatible Arcade1Up control project, this EG STARTS encoder provides a straightforward way to bring traditional arcade controls into a USB-based setup.