Both Qanba and Eightarc are the next companies featured in this edition of The Last Minute Arcade Stick Buying Guide. They are known for their multiplatform and special arcade sticks.

Based in China, Qanba is the most popular arcade stick in that nation and is becoming one of the most recognized in the rest of the world. Distributor affiliate Eightarc, stationed in the San Francisco Bay Area, also has its own versions of Qanba's sticks. Let's take a look!

Q4/Eightarc Fusion ($149.99-$199.99)



The Q4/Fusion sticks are the flagship models both companies offer. The biggest draw for these sticks is their multiplatform compatibility. While many tournaments primarily run on Xbox 360, games like BlazBlue and Tekken are played on PlayStation 3. Having a stick with compatibility for both consoles out of the box can be invaluable to competitors.

The sticks are housed in a simple and sleek ABS plastic body. The Eightarc Fusion compliments the body with minimalist artwork. Unlike other sticks, the USB cable compartment is found on the left side to give the sticks a discreet look to spectators. The Q4 features a handle in the front for easy carrying.

Other traits include an anti-slip bottom made of felt material and a headset port for 360 online players.

Q2 Pro ($145.98-$199.98)

Qanba reintroduced its Q2 Pro arcade sticks with a new feature.

The second-generation models replace the left/right hand orientation system with flashy LED functionality on both buttons and lever created by Qanba. The LEDs can be activated when inputting or continuously lit; the stick can be also configured to have the start button only on or have the light turned off completely.

Unlike the Q4/Fusion's rectangular shape, the Q2 Pro features a more rounded body. Every model includes a swivel handle on the front of the stick that can be easily concealed. Similar to the Q4, the Q2 Pro features the cable compartment on the side. The bottom of the stick is filled with anti-slip leather material.

Q1 Cut ($59.99)



The Q1 Cut is Qanba's reimagination of one of its older series of models.

It is equipped with a special clamp system where it can be attached to the ends of desks or tables for players who have limited space. While the clamps can be removable, the Q1 Cut works best with its main feature.

The stick has a smaller lightweight body compared to the Q4/Fusion and Q2 Pro, but it can be played on laps. The Q1 Cut also includes parts from Qanba but can be easily swapped for Sanwa Denshi or Seimitsu parts.

To those on a budget, the Q1 Cut is a good solution from Qanba.

Discontinued Models

While there is an abundant amount of sticks from Hori and Mad Catz on Craigslist and eBay, you will have a harder time finding older sticks from Qanba and Eightarc. Some eBay stores from China sell models but buy at your own risk. Here is a list of the more reputable sticks:

Q2

Q3 (Empire Arcadia edition, Eightarc ISO)

Q2 Pro (First generation)

Q4 (eLive Pro editions)

Other Information

Both the Q4 and Q2 Pro bodies have enough space inside for modding opportunities. Outside of the Q4, the Xbox 360 models can be modded to work with the PlayStation 3 with proper boards. You can shop at both Eigharc and Arcade Shock for the sticks and accessories!

The next edition will focus more on more sticks from other companies!