XPadder is actually the opposite of what I need...my joystick is already sending keyboard keys.
I could reprogram the joystick...but that will be a pain...as BigBox appears to be the only software with this limitation and I'd have to reprogram all keys in other emulators...including my RetroPie.
I also could install a virtual joystick, like VJoy.
I'd heard that virtual joysticks create a slight lag due to the translation that is being performed...
I was hoping I simply missed a config file somewhere...
FYI...interestingly...the KBD Space key actually is mapped to one of my buttons and allows for select...but escape isn't mapped and I have no way to exit without the keyboard next to me...which isn't the best solution.
Off-topic: Any experience with an I-pac or MiniPac? The X-Arcade uses a proprietary board...which I thought I'd have more control over by switching to one of the pac boards. I could also setup custom lighting for each game to illuminate the buttons being used.