Any thoughts on fight sticks?

I love using a fight stick, but it's definitely a learning curve. At my locals, I've definitely met some amazing players who somehow move the stick way faster than me, but with more dexterity and gentleness.

I'm not sure how moddable the Alpha is, but I'm happily using my RAP4 that had its parts swapped out for Sanwa ones.

I have a Qanba fight stick. I swapped the buttons and stick for sanwa. Idk if swapping them was worth it per say, though the stick yes.

I specifically got it for Rivals of Aether and wanted an octagonal gate stick.

Anyways, I have been playing SF with it but it takes some getting used to. You could also try playing with keyboard if you're unsure if you will like the button layout for right hand and want to experiment before spending money.

I have a HORI RAP4 and I like it. I'm old and grew up playing in arcades, so pads and leverless are completely foreign to me. I haven't modded it, but I want to sooner or later. Mostly to make it more like my old arcade rather than performance oriented changes.

The HORI Alpha looks like the current gen version of the RAP4, and like I said I'm happy with mine. If I was buying a new stick today I'd probably be choosing between that and something from Qanba.

Thanks for the advice everyone, I put in my order this morning and have the Alpha on the way. Cheers!