http://insomnia.ac/hardware/imperishable_night_cab/
That was an enjoyable read. There's nothing like playing something on a proper cabinet.
I have one question though, why not rotate the monitor and mount it vertically? From what I've read this isn't too difficult on a Big Century cabinet. Do many of the PC developed shmups not have proper tate modes?
Little late now, but if you're sourcing a cabinet in the UK in future you might find a more competitive price on Killer Cabs. They do bulk imports from time to time, and there's a pretty active sales forum. You could probably get an Egret II with a 3 button panel for less than the Big Century cost.