PC Engine -> USB pad converters

[HyperionAlpha]

Does anybody have a source on these? I've been looking at ways to use my PC Engine pads with my computer. I came across this: http://www.brunofreitas.com/node/41
Seems fairly comprehensive, including several systems in the mix, which drives the price up a bit, but I haven't really found any other method apart from pulling my sleeves back and rolling my own. Everybody is just using an XBox pad for their computers nowadays or what?

[Necromancer]

Welcome to the funny farm!

http://www.raphnet-tech.com/products/nes2usb/index.php

You'd have to wire it up yourself, but it looks fairly straightforward.  If you do go for one of these things, please take pics along the way and share 'em. 

[HyperionAlpha]

Yeah, I had come across that one as well. I can solder well enough but with two tykes now I don't have the free time that I used to, which is why I was leaning toward the other. Still, I just can't get used to the feel of other pads for PC Engine games, the feel of the buttons and the rapid fire just do it for me like no other. Playing Bonk on anything less is just not the same.

Edit: Came across this testimonial, googling around.

I have the retroUSB one in the 1st link above. It works really good but the turbo switches don't really work. They work, but the repeat is so slow they are of no use.

That makes the retroUSB a definite no-no for me, as this is one feature I absolutely want to preserve. Still, it makes me wonder, does the raphnet circuit have the same or a similar problem? Anyone?

[tggodfrey]

I have the schematics to make them, just never have.  You want to pay for the materials I can give it a whirl.

Terry

[HyperionAlpha]

I just might take you up on that, but does anybody have any experience that can answer to the above? I'd hate to think that I went to the trouble for a pad converter if I couldn't replicate the good old TurboPad's turbo switches.