A question about emulators.

[Roadrunner]

Hi folks, 

Figured I'd put this out there. My HS setup is about 10-15 years old. Works on Windows 7 inside my cabinet and I've got a bunch of old emus (Stella, MESS, Daphne etc...) running. With HS2 coming, does it make sense to change to something newer? Retroarch has been suggested to me and I'm going to look into it. Based on some advice I've gotten I've downloaded the latest version of MAME and figured I'd look at the other emus. 

1. What are the pros and cons of doing a Retroarch type solution vs just running the old systems. I'd love to hear what people think. @gigapig I'd love your opinion on this. 

2. If I go down this path does Retroarch make the most sense or would you suggest an alternative system? 

Cheers!

[gigapig]

Thank you for including me in this discussion, I can only tell you what I do and that may not be best practice.

My cab has also been set up for a long time and I've always used MAME standalone because I have my controls set and all my ini files, shaders, art work and bezels set up. I won't be using RetroArch for that.

I do use RetroArch and it is set up for a lot of the console systems like SNES, Genesis, because it's  initially easy and I love the Mega Bezel reflection shader and scanlines. What I don't like is, it can be complicated to set up on a deeper level, especially controls which I need a reminder on. I have controls working but it's a mystery how. It is nice having everything under one roof and it will be the go to emu for HS2.

For the main computer systems e.g. C64, Spectrum, Amiga I use the standalone emu although they are not great on a cab. I can never remember the button shortcuts and so I just rely on my Rii mini keyboard to load saves etc.

Most important thing is, have a backup, have fun and ask for help instead of getting frustrated.