[IC] Mercury Rocketeer

[zslane]

Many of you are already familiar with the Hermes Rocketeer set proposal, but it has reached a critical impasse and I need the interested segment of the community to weigh in on this. The question before you is this: which SA style do you feel would be the preferred choice given all the issues currently facing SA production? Below are images of the three options we have.

First up is fully sculpted, double-shot ABS:


Next up is fully sculpted, dye-sub PBT:


And last up is uniform R3, dye-sub PBT:


The pros and cons of each are as follows:

Fully sculptured, double-shot ABS
Pros:

• Slightly more saturated colors
• Clearest, most durable legends
• Sculptured row profiles help emulate stepped rows of the original Hermes Rocket typewriter

Cons:

• More expensive due to the custom legend plates needed for the novelty legends
• Production would be on hold indefinitely due to current backlog at Signature Plastics

Fully sculptured, dye-sub PBT
Pros:

• Novelty legends incur no additional production cost (or time)
• Sculptured row profiles help emulate stepped rows of the original Hermes Rocket typewriter
• Use of dye-sub process avoids extreme scheduling constraints

Cons:

• Slightly less saturated colors (compared to ABS colors)
• Production date can not currently be determined due to lack of dye-sub assembly boards for the SA family at Signature Plastics(*)

Uniform R3, dye-sub PBT
Pros:

• Novelty legends incur no additional production cost (or time)
• Use of dye-sub process avoids extreme scheduling constraints
• Uniform R3 would reduce the size and cost of some kits due to intrinsic row flexibility
• Use of uniform R3 profile allows production to occur immediately

Cons:

• Slightly less saturated colors (compared to ABS colors)
• Uniform R3 profile can not compensate for lack of stepped rows in keyboard plates

(*) SP claims to be "working on" assembly boards for R1 and R2 row profiles for dye-sub SA setups, but have given no estimates of when they will be completed. There's no telling which will come first, full sculptured dye-sub SA or a cleared double-shot SA backlog.

So, given the pros and cons listed above, where do interested folks stand on the question? Is uniform R3 dye-sub PBT SA acceptable? Or are fully sculptured rows worth waiting for, even though we have no way of knowing if the wait will be three months or three years? And how important are double-shot legends? I, for one, do not see a clear advantage over dye-sub with this set given that the legends are black. But what say you?

[hansichen]

I think i would vote for uniform SA pbt. As abs would probably be a thing of summer 2018 or later maybe there could be a later run with sculpted profile in future, but for the moment i would go with R3 pbt.

Do you know more about the pricing, the last pbt group buy (metro) seemed much higher than the last abs oner (eg dasher). Is it just "normal" price increase or is pbt much more expensive?

[chuckdee]

Though I do like uniform better in many cases, this is not one of those cases.  You're trying to recreate a certain aesthetic that uniform can't duplicate, so something would be lost in the effort.  And Double-shot all the way.  It's a classic design, with a classic air, and one of the few that I'd base a build completely around.  My suggestion would be to stick with your vision, no matter what the queues look like.

[Jedi]

TBH I don't see an issue with the wait.  More time to go through a proper IC with feedback + hype can't be a bad thing.  So SP is backlogged, would it be better to have no backlog and struggle through MOQ?  I personally like the fully sculpted SA profile in doubleshot.  The backlog on SP can and should work in the keycap designer's favor, just a theory though, I guess.

Dasher and Dancer took forever it seemed, finally went to drop, made success, win win. 

[Vigrith]

You already know my opinion so I'll just say I'm extremely pleased to see this! I really do hope this comes to be sooner rather than later.

[jal]

Honestly like the fully sculpted a lot more with this set. And prefer nice to fast, generally speaking.

[Puddsy]

my preferred SA style is DCS

[Tally810]

I like sculpted either way.  I've never used pbt sa caps so that could be cool

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[zslane]

Thank for weighing in, everyone!

The clear message I'm getting is that sculptured is the way to go regardless of how long the wait might be. Fair enough. Sculptured it is then! 

[TheNamesTy45]

I love this. I'm so in with this being fully sculptured.

[Niomosy]

I'm probably in on this set regardless.  PBT sculptured dyesub probably ties with ABS sculptured as I'm definitely curious about sculptured dyesub SA.  Even R3 PBT dyesub is fine as it would be my first R3 SA set of any kind along with my first PBT dyesub SA set.

[ChitownM2]

I'd probably say go option 3. To me it sounds like a choice between getting a set done now or possibly never doing it. By the time options 1 or 2 become viable you might have other projects that interest you now or who knows what else. Besides, option 3 doesn't prevent you from doing option 1 or 2 in a year from now if the interest from the creator and the demand are still there.

[B1G_B1RD]

I think i would also prefer fully sculpted.

[ghostdeini]

I'm leaning most towards Option 1. Go big or go home!

Also, if the wait is outrageously long (like notably longer than normal)... would you ever consider trying to get a quote from Maxkeys, just to see what the competition might offer?

[zslane]

At this time, there are simply too many obstacles to getting a set like Rocketeer produced by MaxKeys and run through MassDrop. It is hard to imagine circumstances in which going with MaxKeys would be preferable over SP.

[Niomosy]

I'm leaning most towards Option 1. Go big or go home!

Also, if the wait is outrageously long (like notably longer than normal)... would you ever consider trying to get a quote from Maxkeys, just to see what the competition might offer?

The wait right now is currently through 2017 while SP handles outstanding orders for doubleshot SA sets.  We're still waiting to see when they'll begin taking doubleshot SA orders again.  That means an early 2018 production slot in a best case scenario where this is one of the first doubleshot SA sets to get put through after the ordering freeze. 

[zslane]

Right.

Bear in mind that there's a lot more to this package than just the keycaps. I want to put together a (MassDrop) group buy that involves the keycaps, a (60%) keyboard, a custom aluminum case (hopefully designed by Rama), and a color-matched cable. Each of these components could be ordered separately, of course, but I really want buyers to have the opportunity to get an entire keyboard (+cable) in one beautiful, deluxe package if they want. Pulling all this together will take quite a bit of time, and so I don't foresee this being a 2017 thing in any case.

[zslane]

BTW, here are the kits as I envision them at this time. The row profiles would be 1-2-3-4-3. Note that for the blanks, I am thinking that each row might be its own kit. But, of course, nothing is set in stone just yet.

[Niomosy]

Right.

Bear in mind that there's a lot more to this package than just the keycaps. I want to put together a (MassDrop) group buy that involves the keycaps, a (60%) keyboard, a custom aluminum case (hopefully designed by Rama), and a color-matched cable. Each of these components could be ordered separately, of course, but I really want buyers to have the opportunity to get an entire keyboard (+cable) in one beautiful, deluxe package if they want. Pulling all this together will take quite a bit of time, and so I don't foresee this being a 2017 thing in any case.

I think if you keep to that bundling of product, the current doubleshot SA timeline isn't such a huge deal.   I may be mistaken but the bundle might swing voting more toward doubleshot given the retro vibe of this set.

[zslane]

We now have a Chinese clone to compete with... they even took (part of) the name. 

[ChitownM2]

Shady as hell.

[Puddsy]

Shady as hell.

welcome to mechanical keyboards

[breusch91]

I'd love to try fully sculpted dye sub pbt.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[nubbinator]

I really like this idea (aside from the profile).  It's similar to the Underwood Universal idea I had in terms of colors, but I think the colors you have work better...assuming SP can match them.

[zslane]

Well, my renders are based on the SP colors in their ABS chip set. Of course they are RGB approximations, but I feel confident that the real VCO and VAF would be a sufficiently close/good match.

[Trente]

Really love this color way, perosonally I would like some uniform format like SA R3 or DSA, since I have had wired keyboard with werid layout so the compatibility matters to me. But normal SA works out well either! 

[kconfire]

sculpted dye-sub PBT!!!

[hansichen]

There was a post at the what's new section at pmk that sculpted pbt SA won't happen before late 2018, so if we are going for that it will be a good ammount of wait time

[Niomosy]

I think PBT was a secondary option as an alternative to the doubleshot SA backlog.  I don't currently see anything on the PMK site noting 2018 for PBT sculptured right now but hopefully that's not the case as I'd like to see SP expand their PBT color options so we've got more colorway possibilities there.

[cmc]

Given the time to pull all the other components together, waiting on SP seems fine.  Also, although I'll probably get the whole kit when it's available, I would love to have the option to put these keys on a larger (at least TKL) keyboard.

[hansichen]

I think PBT was a secondary option as an alternative to the doubleshot SA backlog.  I don't currently see anything on the PMK site noting 2018 for PBT sculptured right now but hopefully that's not the case as I'd like to see SP expand their PBT color options so we've got more colorway possibilities there.

They deleted it some days ago, no idea how long it has been there as their communication is quite messy I hoped for an earlier date too but it seemed like they have problems with tooling and that this is their expected time until they have all the new stuff. But as it's deleted now maybe there will be some other timelines in future.

[zslane]

Given the time to pull all the other components together, waiting on SP seems fine.  Also, although I'll probably get the whole kit when it's available, I would love to have the option to put these keys on a larger (at least TKL) keyboard.

I know it may disappoint some folks, but the concept behind the set precludes direct support for keyboards with more than 62 keys. Indirect support comes in the form of the SPECIALTY and BLANKS kits. If you can make a larger keyboard work with those, more power to you! 

[zslane]

...it seemed like they have problems with tooling...

I believe it has more to do with the fact that there is only one person at SP responsible for creating new dye-sub setup boards, and he has many other higher priority tasks on his plate. Sure, it would be nice if they could hire someone new and train them to do his job, but you have to realize where SP is located; finding new employees is extremely challenging.

[hoq]

Hi, zslane,

The render picture you put up above was a concept rendor several weeks ago, not the final design. The finall design is attached.


As I PMed you, I'm sorry that for some reason I did copy the idea of Hermes typewriter, and NOW I stopped and cancelled the groupbuy.
SA Vintage Typewriter/ Forgive Her will not happen anymore, I'm so sorry for your inconvinient.

I do not want to annoy you, and I  don't want to break the rules here,
I will pay close attention don't let this happen again.

[Niomosy]

...it seemed like they have problems with tooling...

I believe it has more to do with the fact that there is only one person at SP responsible for creating new dye-sub setup boards, and he has many other higher priority tasks on his plate. Sure, it would be nice if they could hire someone new and train them to do his job, but you have to realize where SP is located; finding new employees is extremely challenging.

I should be able to make a larger board work with the extra kits.  Might pick up a 75% board at some point so this would be pretty nice there as I just need the 60% and a handful of extra caps.

[zslane]

Hi, zslane,

The render picture you put up above was a concept rendor several weeks ago, not the final design. The finall design is attached.

Show Image

As I PMed you, I'm sorry that for some reason I did copy the idea of Hermes typewriter, and NOW I stopped and cancelled the groupbuy.
SA Vintage Typewriter/ Forgive Her will not happen anymore, I'm so sorry for your inconvinient.

I do not want to annoy you, and I  don't want to break the rules here,
I will pay close attention don't let this happen again.

Much appreciated hoq!

[Kavik]

That enter key legend looks rather phallic. 

[SuperVan]

Hi, zslane,

The render picture you put up above was a concept rendor several weeks ago, not the final design. The finall design is attached.

Show Image

As I PMed you, I'm sorry that for some reason I did copy the idea of Hermes typewriter, and NOW I stopped and cancelled the groupbuy.
SA Vintage Typewriter/ Forgive Her will not happen anymore, I'm so sorry for your inconvinient.

I do not want to annoy you, and I  don't want to break the rules here,
I will pay close attention don't let this happen again.

You such a fkin copier! As a Chinese I feel shame for your lies. Back to Xianyu and QQ group, my original designer! You are not belong here.

通过我的 ONEPLUS A3010 上的 Tapatalk发言

[sklin]

Hi, zslane,

The render picture you put up above was a concept rendor several weeks ago, not the final design. The finall design is attached.

Show Image

As I PMed you, I'm sorry that for some reason I did copy the idea of Hermes typewriter, and NOW I stopped and cancelled the groupbuy.
SA Vintage Typewriter/ Forgive Her will not happen anymore, I'm so sorry for your inconvinient.

I do not want to annoy you, and I  don't want to break the rules here,
I will pay close attention don't let this happen again.

You such a fkin copier! As a Chinese I feel shame for your lies. Back to Xianyu and QQ group, my original designer! You are not belong here.

Show Image

通过我的 ONEPLUS A3010 上的 Tapatalk发言

hey, the announcement CLEARLY said that the GB is cancelled. Why are you calling him a lier? Are you blind or what? Is it wrong to express the wish to design a much better SA set??

[SuperVan]

Hi, zslane,

The render picture you put up above was a concept rendor several weeks ago, not the final design. The finall design is attached.

Show Image

As I PMed you, I'm sorry that for some reason I did copy the idea of Hermes typewriter, and NOW I stopped and cancelled the groupbuy.
SA Vintage Typewriter/ Forgive Her will not happen anymore, I'm so sorry for your inconvinient.

I do not want to annoy you, and I  don't want to break the rules here,
I will pay close attention don't let this happen again.

You such a fkin copier! As a Chinese I feel shame for your lies. Back to Xianyu and QQ group, my original designer! You are not belong here.

Show Image

通过我的 ONEPLUS A3010 上的 Tapatalk发言

hey, the announcement CLEARLY said that the GB is cancelled. Why are you calling him a lier? Are you blind or what? Is it wrong to express the wish to design a much better SA set??

He lied to Chinese buyers. It's not the first time he copy other designer's design. Look at my pics. Could you tell me it's original or not?

通过我的 ONEPLUS A3010 上的 Tapatalk发言

[hoq]

Hi Supervan, This planck key set did used the creamy orange color way, if a color way means copying, I believe SP will collapse  some day for that no designer can use the same color , I have explained once in some other thread. I don't want to talk it again with you such a immature coward.


From My iPhone 9.99

[SuperVan]

Hi Supervan, This planck key set did used the creamy orange color way, if a color way means copying, I believe SP will collapse  some day for that no designer can use the same color , I have explained once in some other thread. I don't want to talk it again with you such a immature coward.


From My iPhone 9.99

Why you think it's a good reason for copying? I don't agree with you. I think t0mb3ry also don't agree with you. As a designer you suck so bad. Shameless of you.

通过我的 ONEPLUS A3010 上的 Tapatalk发言

[tialdo]

Damn it! I have the same idea last year, too bad I can't make it happen! Here is my render in Nov, 2016 (Just sharing for fun!). Great work though!!.

[zslane]

That enter key legend looks rather phallic.

Yeah, you're not wrong about that. It is supposed to look like the carriage return arm on the Hermes Rocket, but most folks probably won't get that. I could just leave the Return key blank, I suppose.

[Puddsy]

Nothing we can do about copies.

If you don't like it, don't order it.

No sense in ****ting up the IC thread.

[zslane]

Damn it! I have the same idea last year, too bad I can't make it happen! Here is my render in Nov, 2016 (Just sharing for fun!). Great work though!!.

I'd really like to put the whole subject of copying keycap sets to rest here, if possible. The other GB has been shelved, and I'm not interested in hashing out that thorny issue in this thread. But I do want to make my position on the subject clear, so we can just move on.

I fully acknowledge that colorways can't be "owned", especially since very few of them are truly unique or original. Many folks will come up with the same (or very similar) color schemes independently. I absolutely do not claim any special ownership of the simple idea of a keycap set composed of green keys. In fact, if Rocketeer was just a set of green keys, I wouldn't even bother with it; there's nothing special about that.

What makes the Hermes Rocketeer project special, at least to me, is that its concept is driven by the vintage Hermes Rocket typewriter. The color of the keycaps were specifically chosen to match, as closely as possible, the colors of that typewriter. And, in fact, the MassDrop group buy I am trying to put together is not just a green keycap set, but a complete bundle with 60% keyboard, keycaps (with themed novelty keys, BTW), custom aluminum case designed by other notable community designers, and color-matched cable. I am pretty sure that none of the other proposals for "lovely green keycaps" have made the same effort to deliver anything of this scope.

That's why I take no issue with anyone else putting together a green colorway. None of us can claim "ownership" to the idea of green keycaps, and seeing other people's colorways--even ones similar to my own--is interesting to me, not bothersome. In this particular case, however, I was disappointed that the proposed set was not only an exact color match (for the alphas), but the name and concept was appropriated as well. That's more than just a case of hitting on the same colors by accident.

As for your render, it offers green keycaps but not a full keyboard package tied to a particular concept, and so I wouldn't consider it a copy or even a competitor for the Rocketeer group buy.

(And just for the record, my first render/description for this was posted on Aug-23-2016: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=25674.msg2246628#msg2246628)

[tialdo]

Damn it! I have the same idea last year, too bad I can't make it happen! Here is my render in Nov, 2016 (Just sharing for fun!). Great work though!!.

I'd really like to put the whole subject of copying keycap sets to rest here, if possible. The other GB has been shelved, and I'm not interested in hashing out that thorny issue in this thread. But I do want to make my position on the subject clear, so we can just move on.

I fully acknowledge that colorways can't be "owned", especially since very few of them are truly unique or original. Many folks will come up with the same (or very similar) color schemes independently. I absolutely do not claim any special ownership of the simple idea of a keycap set composed of green keys. In fact, if Rocketeer was just a set of green keys, I wouldn't even bother with it; there's nothing special about that.

What makes the Hermes Rocketeer project special, at least to me, is that its concept is driven by the vintage Hermes Rocket typewriter. The color of the keycaps were specifically chosen to match, as closely as possible, the colors of that typewriter. And, in fact, the MassDrop group buy I am trying to put together is not just a green keycap set, but a complete bundle with 60% keyboard, keycaps (with themed novelty keys, BTW), custom aluminum case designed by other notable community designers, and color-matched cable. I am pretty sure that none of the other proposals for "lovely green keycaps" have made the same effort to deliver anything of this scope.

That's why I take no issue with anyone else putting together a green colorway. None of us can claim "ownership" to the idea of green keycaps, and seeing other people's colorways--even ones similar to my own--is interesting to me, not bothersome. In this particular case, however, I was disappointed that the proposed set was not only an exact color match (for the alphas), but the name and concept was appropriated as well. That's more than just a case of hitting on the same colors by accident.

As for your render, it offers green keycaps but not a full keyboard package tied to a particular concept, and so I wouldn't consider it a copy or even a competitor for the Rocketeer group buy.

(And just for the record, my first render/description for this was posted on Aug-23-2016: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=25674.msg2246628#msg2246628)

It would be awesome if your set become real, I'm very interest! (Waiting here for your dasher, teehee.)

[elfick]

If Matt3o's /dev/tty works out, are you going to consider MT3 for Hermes Rocketeer?

[zslane]

Well, that depends on how open folks are to dye-sub over double-shot. The consensus seems to be to wait for double-shot. But if there is a big shift in interest towards MT3 over SA, I'll certainly consider it. Especially since it appears that MassDrop has established a vendor relationship with the manufacturer in China.

However, there are two other open questions that need to be answered:

1. Are the necessary shades of green available?
2. Can they deliver keycaps in semi-gloss finish?

[Owl-]

Personally, prefer the dye sub option, I prefer the slightly softer tones.

MT3 is showing promise, so I think it's an option to have. Matt3o's teal variant set has a close tone to your green, so I believe it's possible to get the wanted shades.

[Niomosy]

Well, that depends on how open folks are to dye-sub over double-shot. The consensus seems to be to wait for double-shot. But if there is a big shift in interest towards MT3 over SA, I'll certainly consider it. Especially since it appears that MassDrop has established a vendor relationship with the manufacturer in China.

However, there are two other open questions that need to be answered:

1. Are the necessary shades of green available?
2. Can they deliver keycaps in semi-gloss finish?

I would think matt3o would be open to Rocketeer as a run, it just wasn't what he wanted to do as a first run of the new profile.  Colors/finish are another question, though.  I hope they'd be able to get the colors given though I would guess the order for the plastic wouldn't even be placed until money was paid.

[ChitownM2]

Well, that depends on how open folks are to dye-sub over double-shot. The consensus seems to be to wait for double-shot. But if there is a big shift in interest towards MT3 over SA, I'll certainly consider it. Especially since it appears that MassDrop has established a vendor relationship with the manufacturer in China.

However, there are two other open questions that need to be answered:

1. Are the necessary shades of green available?
2. Can they deliver keycaps in semi-gloss finish?

Not 100% sure if I'm correct, but I believe I read somewhere that MD will technically be the owner of the molds for the hi pro set that matt3o created. So it is more than just an established relationship. Sounds like it is open for anyone to use, with the caveat I'm sure that the sets will have to be sold on MD. Matt3o was just the first one to get the ball rolling, but I'm betting MD has an eye on cutting SP out of the game anywhere they can.

[zslane]

Semantics maybe? I'd say that paying for the MT3 tooling is definitely part of having an "established relationship".

In any case, access to the MT3 family was never really an issue. However, the ability of the manufacturer to provide the necessary colors and finish options certainly is.

[ChitownM2]

I suppose so. I was just commenting that matt3o doesn't really have any control over who produces keycaps in that profile as the post above mine kind of implied. Probably should have quoted both posts not just yours.

One thing that is almost a certainty is that since MD owns the molds we won't be seeing kits produced in that profile that aren't from MD. I bet it is extremely unlikely that MD has given the vendor permission to produce kits using their molds for a third party or an independent GB like might be organized here. For Hermes this probably wouldn't be a problem as it would be pretty popular and you have a relationship with MD already, however for people hoping that this new profile might open the door for "smaller projects" that probably won't be the case because MD might not be interested in doing custom kits that might only sell 150 kits.

[zslane]

Obviously I can't speak for MassDrop, but as a rule they are very open to small projects, even ones where only 150 units will be sold. They really like collaborating with community designers on fun, unique projects. Rocketeer is one such example. So I would encourage anyone with an interesting idea to reach out to Yanbo at MassDrop and see what he has to say, even if it is a fairly small scale project.

Now matt3o may not have the official authority to veto a keycap set that proposes to use MT3, but he can certainly play the role of facilitator since right now he has more influence with regard to his new keycap family than anyone else outside of MassDrop. I don't know the details of his business arrangement with MassDrop, but I would venture to guess he has some degree of controlling interest, so to speak, over the MT3 family.

As for Rocketeer, the project was only ever going to be a MassDrop thing. There are too many other elements to pull together for anyone else to do it and do it the way I would want it done (and with the broad reach MassDrop has). Remember, Rocketeer isn't just a keycap set.

[Niomosy]

Given the goals of Rocketeer, MassDrop certainly makes the most sense.  I suppose we would need to see how the MT3 caps are going to be handled.  If someone at MD could chime in, that might be helpful.  I'm wondering if a MD discussion on it isn't in order?  It could certainly be helpful to others interested in using MT3 as it gets us a sculptured hi-profile dyesub set where SA dyesub is currently only R3.

[Meowmeowmeowpow]

Put me down for: Uniform R3, dye-sub PBT

+ an ergodox kit if possible =P

[switchnollie]

Fan of the colors, been wanting an SA set for awhile

[Bob]

Just spotted this in the window of a local antique store and figured I'd share:

edit: mucked this post up, picture is in the one below...

[Bob]

Ah, I think I've got the hang of images now. Oops 

[Auk]

more to this package than just the keycaps....
...a (60%) keyboard, a custom aluminum case (hopefully designed by Rama), and a color-matched cable

I've read your earlier comments that you're intent is for this to be a 60% product only, and I wouldn't want to you compromise on the small and portable inspiration that is at the heart of this project, but: Massdrop are definitely handling the manufacture and logistics so I wondered if you've given any consideration to completing the package with a matching, but standalone, programmable numpad that could include a layer for the 'missing'  F row and maybe macro functionality?

"Will you make a matching numpad case?" is a question that seems to be asked regularly of the the various TKL and smaller case projects so it seems like it is something people would be interested in. Potentially you could then also have a closer to full keycap set to offer more widely to maybe help with price breaks on the keycaps. Unless you really want to keep the sale numbers small and exclusive, in which case I will STFU!

I don't foresee this being a 2017 thing in any case

Will you be waiting to see first hand the final manufactured version of Matt3o's MT3 before making a final decision?

[zslane]

I've read your earlier comments that you're intent is for this to be a 60% product only, and I wouldn't want to you compromise on the small and portable inspiration that is at the heart of this project, but...

I fully understand this will exclude many potential buyers, but I'm staying on concept for this. The objective is not broadest reach (or maximum revenue), but finest implementation (of a singular concept). I expect only modest interest in this (comparable to the Minivan), but as long as MassDrop is not concerned about that, then neither am I.

Will you be waiting to see first hand the final manufactured version of Matt3o's MT3 before making a final decision?

No. I believe MT3 will be a terrific keycap family (I'm typing on the prototypes right now). But I want to exhaust all reasonable possibility of doing this with semi-gloss, double-shot SA first before resorting to a textured dye-sub format.

[breusch91]

I've read your earlier comments that you're intent is for this to be a 60% product only, and I wouldn't want to you compromise on the small and portable inspiration that is at the heart of this project, but...

I fully understand this will exclude many potential buyers, but I'm staying on concept for this. The objective is not broadest reach (or maximum revenue), but finest implementation (of a singular concept). I expect only modest interest in this (comparable to the Minivan), but as long as MassDrop is not concerned about that, then neither am I.

Will you be waiting to see first hand the final manufactured version of Matt3o's MT3 before making a final decision?

No. I believe MT3 will be a terrific keycap family (I'm typing on the prototypes right now). But I want to exhaust all reasonable possibility of doing this with semi-gloss, double-shot SA first before resorting to a textured dye-sub format.

If this ends up being fully sculpted (MT3 or Double Shot SA) i will definitely get in. I know you said youll be sticking with the 60% only, but if there was anyway to get a 1.75u shift in there I'd love you. Would at least make 65% boards feasible with this then since I could just cover the extra 1us with artisans or something.

[zslane]

If this ends up being fully sculpted (MT3 or Double Shot SA) i will definitely get in. I know you said youll be sticking with the 60% only, but if there was anyway to get a 1.75u shift in there I'd love you. Would at least make 65% boards feasible with this then since I could just cover the extra 1us with artisans or something.

Check out the proposed kits here: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=88368.msg2389520#msg2389520

Since Shift keys are blank in this set, you'll find them in every size throughout the various kits.

A lot of alternate layouts should be covered with the Specialty kit. I mean, many keyboards larger than 60% will be covered with the kits offered, it's just that there is going to be no (further) special effort to accommodate larger (or more unusual) layouts than what can be covered with what you see in that render.

[lecorsair]

Such a lovely set, very much looking forward to it going live.

[rustywok]

I like the concept of a bundled board with this custom keyset, etc. into a single group buy. I'll no doubt be in for whatever zslane finally decides on. I tend to prefer sculpted ABS, though the R3 PBT dye-sub looks just as awesome. So either direction though I wouldn't want to see the green go any less saturated.   

[ibakey]

Is this still a thing? I really hope this pulls through. I'm kinda bummed out that i missed the dasher and dancer groupbuy so I am making sure I don't miss this one.

[zslane]

Yes, it is still a thing. We're hoping for a December drop, but I consider that very tentative.

In the meantime, here's a glimpse at an artisan Return keycap I'm hoping to make available as a separate drop. It is inspired by the fact that the Hermes Rocket typewriter has a metal carriage return arm.

[h3xadat]

In the meantime, here's a glimpse at an artisan Return keycap I'm hoping to make available as a separate drop. It is inspired by the fact that the Hermes Rocket typewriter has a metal carriage return arm.
(Attachment Link)

Looks beautiful!

[hhkbp2]

Any update?

[zslane]

None to speak of.

It's hard to say how much effort MD is putting into this right now. All I know is that they are working on it on some level.

[zimo]

maxkey is a good choice

[zslane]

As long as MassDrop is involved, I don't think MaxKeys will be approached to provide keycaps. Moreover, they still have not fixed their legends, and their willingness to create custom legends at a reasonable cost is still an open issue.

[zslane]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

[tialdo]

Any chances for text mods? 

[elfick]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

Woah! That looks amazing! 

[hhkbp2]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

(Attachment Link)

Looks great! It seems to be expensive to have the metal enter key, with engraved legend. Hope it's an option not to have it.

[tron]

Love the retro serpentine green color. My vote goes to the MT3 dye sub option.

[zslane]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

(Attachment Link)

Looks great! It seems to be expensive to have the metal enter key, with engraved legend. Hope it's an option not to have it.

Um, scroll up a few posts to #67.

[millifoo]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

(Attachment Link)

Gorgeous.

I would absolutely, positively, buy one of these cases engraved+keycaps+chrome_enter.

[zslane]

Any chances for text mods? 

I'm afraid not. However, your post is making me consider offering 1.25u blanks for the bottom row. The prospective BLANKS kit(s) already supply two (of each color), but we'd need seven of the darker green to cover the bottom row, so I'll have to think about the best way to arrange for that.

[moshjaines]

sold on the artisan return cap!
this set makes me wanna find my old typewriter, was mint green but not sure of the model.

[Jae-3soteric]

I genuinely love the colours here but does it not have ISO support?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[derezzed]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

(Attachment Link)

Having had the original Hermes Rocketeer render as my desktop wallpaper for the better part of a year, I have to say that the new render is superior in every way.  The shape of the case is not just an homage to the original typewriter, it has a retro-futuristic design that makes it look like it belongs in a 50s science fiction film.  The name change is not only a nicely sly reference to this board's inspiration, the increased length of "Mercury" over "Hermes" gives the logo a more balanced weighting and reinforces a space theme.  You have 2 cohesive themes existing simultaneously and symbiotically.  And the chrome enter key is the perfect homage to the carriage return arm -- it's orders of magnitude better than the original carriage return novelty key.  It's a shame that the real thing will not look like this render because that thing should be on display in a museum.  The keys look as good as ever.  If the colors on the real keys are as vibrant as they are in the render, that will be great.  I hope they develop a good shine with use, too.  It seems like the whole point of this set is the execution of the concept, so it makes sense to refuse compromises that would expand the market while diluting the concept.

[zslane]

I genuinely love the colours here but does it not have ISO support?

It sure does.

[hhkbp2]

Here is a concept render I made for one possible take on the custom case design. Please note that the final case that MassDrop comes up with will most likely not look exactly like this, nor is there any guarantee that an engraved logo will be economically feasible (even as a premium option). But this gives you an idea of the sort of thing I'd like to see for the Rocketeer.

(Attachment Link)

The case looks amazingly classical. Any more idea/info about its internal? how is the plate mounted to the case? It's great if the case supports the universal gh60/infinity60 plate. If it's not, is there any chance we have the middle plate to support costar stabilizers?
 

[zslane]

None of those details are available yet, I'm afraid. The MassDrop engineers are in very early stages of working all that out. All they have at this point is my concept art for the case, along with some estimated measurements, all of which are most certainly non-manufacturable as I have it. I don't yet have any information about the plate or PCB either. I hope to have some more info soon though.

[ChitownM2]

The entire build looks absolutely incredible, but I have to imagine it will be pretty expensive as is. Guessing this will test what the upper limit is for typical MD keeb customers as this has to be double a k-type or WhiteFox.

If I have the funds when this is available I'll absolutely pick one up.

[millifoo]

This set is looking absolutely gorgeous!  My only request is that you either offer an enter key with text (ENTER) or ditch the carriage lever - it really looks like a hockey stick / p3nis (sorry) and really doesn't fit the rest of the aesthetic.

[pixelpusher]

This set is looking absolutely gorgeous!  My only request is that you either offer an enter key with text (ENTER) or ditch the carriage lever - it really looks like a hockey stick / p3nis (sorry) and really doesn't fit the rest of the aesthetic.

Show Image

But I've always wanted a penis themed set!   :p

[zslane]

This set is looking absolutely gorgeous!  My only request is that you either offer an enter key with text (ENTER) or ditch the carriage lever - it really looks like a hockey stick / p3nis (sorry) and really doesn't fit the rest of the aesthetic.

Show Image

Yeah, it's not my favorite bit of graphics either.

I'd rather leave it blank than put any text on it though.

[Jae-3soteric]

This set is looking absolutely gorgeous!  My only request is that you either offer an enter key with text (ENTER) or ditch the carriage lever - it really looks like a hockey stick / p3nis (sorry) and really doesn't fit the rest of the aesthetic.

Show Image

Yeah, it's not my favorite bit of graphics either.

I'd rather leave it blank than put any text on it though.

Any Chance of maybe getting this run through the new DSS tooling? I think the colours and inspiration will surely fit the styling of the sculpt.

[elfick]

This set is looking absolutely gorgeous!  My only request is that you either offer an enter key with text (ENTER) or ditch the carriage lever - it really looks like a hockey stick / p3nis (sorry) and really doesn't fit the rest of the aesthetic.

Show Image

Yeah, it's not my favorite bit of graphics either.

I'd rather leave it blank than put any text on it though.

Any Chance of maybe getting this run through the new DSS tooling? I think the colours and inspiration will surely fit the styling of the sculpt.

Sounds like SP retired DSS back in the 80s. Did the recently resurrect it?
https://pimpmykeyboard.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/204415935-The-Origin-of-SP-Keycap-Families

[Puddsy]

This set is looking absolutely gorgeous!  My only request is that you either offer an enter key with text (ENTER) or ditch the carriage lever - it really looks like a hockey stick / p3nis (sorry) and really doesn't fit the rest of the aesthetic.

Show Image

Yeah, it's not my favorite bit of graphics either.

I'd rather leave it blank than put any text on it though.

Any Chance of maybe getting this run through the new DSS tooling? I think the colours and inspiration will surely fit the styling of the sculpt.

Sounds like SP retired DSS back in the 80s. Did the recently resurrect it?
https://pimpmykeyboard.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/204415935-The-Origin-of-SP-Keycap-Families

correct

[pixelpusher]

DSS Resurrection thread

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93584

[MeloDet]

If text mods are out of the question, is there at least a possibility for icon mod left shift, right shift, caps etc.? Wouldn't even need to be represented of the keys functions, I'd just prefer to not have keys be randomly blank if possible. Also as far as the initial question goes my personal preference would be for sculpted SA PBT (or maybe even something fun like MT3 or one of the other upcoming profiles)

[zslane]

Well, it is important to understand that these keycaps are really meant to go with the custom case. The whole point of this project is to be a tribute to the Hermes Rocket typewriter which had no modifiers at all, being a manual typewriter and all. The icon mods are there to suggest the other mechanical elements of the typewriter. I figure that folks who don't dig the vibe of the icons probably don't particularly care much about the Rocket typewriter itself either, and are just looking at these keycaps as pretty green keycaps, which is not what they are all about.

As for profile and material, an earlier survey clearly showed a strong preference for SA double-shot ABS, so that's what we're going with.

[elfick]

DSS Resurrection thread

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93584

Thank you!

[zslane]

So I have a question for the community. Which of these two product features is more important?

1. A case that can accommodate Pok3r (and Pok3r-compatible) boards?
    ...or...
2. An easily detachable cable? (i.e., detachable without opening the case)

In other words, if the industrial design of the case made it impractical to provide for both, which of the two would be more important? I guess you could answer this in two contexts: which is more important to you personally, and which do you think would be more important to the overall potential customer base?

[pixelpusher]

So I have a question for the community. Which of these two product features is more important?

1. A case that can accommodate Pok3r (and Pok3r-compatible) boards?
    ...or...
2. An easily detachable cable? (i.e., detachable without opening the case)

In other words, if the industrial design of the case made it impractical to provide for both, which of the two would be more important? I guess you could answer this in two contexts: which is more important to you personally, and which do you think would be more important to the overall potential customer base?

probably detachable cable is most important to me.  I find it harder to store my boards that have built in cables.  Looks more cluttered no matter what I do.

[Vigrith]

Detachable cable for sure.

[Jedi]

From my perspective whichever option that gives your design the best aesthetic after everything is all put together. In other words if the final product will look 100% either way, then the community is going to be split between wanting to buy a custom color/length/coiled/etc cable and a swap out ability to buy a different profile case.

Go with what finishes the product in the most true to form way and the way you envisioned it to look. Please, please, please don't go based on cost (as in this option is cheaper because we can manufacture it to a lower cost).  IMHO

[TheNamesTy45]

So I have a question for the community. Which of these two product features is more important?

1. A case that can accommodate Pok3r (and Pok3r-compatible) boards?
    ...or...
2. An easily detachable cable? (i.e., detachable without opening the case)

In other words, if the industrial design of the case made it impractical to provide for both, which of the two would be more important? I guess you could answer this in two contexts: which is more important to you personally, and which do you think would be more important to the overall potential customer base?

If Duck custom boards are any indication, I think people can handle non-standard PCBs, and the detachable cable adds an extra layer of customization.

[zslane]

This project is nearing completion!

With luck, the next big announcement will be in about a month... 

[dimo]

Gotta start saving   

[HOBI3CAT]

This project is nearing completion!

With luck, the next big announcement will be in about a month... 

Pumped! Really hyped for this set Did you ever settle on a profile/material? I'm really hoping for Sculpted ABS SA myself

[zslane]

Yes, sculptured double-shot SA is still the plan.

Bear in mind that this is not a keycap set GB, but a keyboard GB that comes with a dedicated keycap set designed just for it.

I wanted this GB to support 3rd party 60% boards, but that doesn't look like it will happen in the first go-around. Compatibility for other 60% boards will require a "compatibility kit" (basically a special USB daughterboard) that MassDrop may produce and sell as a separate drop if enough demand for it becomes apparent during the Rocketeer GB.

[TheNamesTy45]

Just looked at that render again. This will be an absolute must buy for me. So so excited for this one.

[macclack]

Great news to wake up to! 

[chuckdee]

This project is nearing completion!

With luck, the next big announcement will be in about a month... 

I just realized - I haven't seen anything about layouts.  Is it only the one layout?

[dimo]

This project is nearing completion!

With luck, the next big announcement will be in about a month... 

I just realized - I haven't seen anything about layouts.  Is it only the one layout?

I mean, what are you looking for?

There's an ISO kit so that would mean ISO support is available-- even though the metallic enter looks much better.

60% are usually lacked with room to budge unless you get into 65% territory

[chuckdee]

This project is nearing completion!

With luck, the next big announcement will be in about a month... 

I just realized - I haven't seen anything about layouts.  Is it only the one layout?

I mean, what are you looking for?

There's an ISO kit so that would mean ISO support is available-- even though the metallic enter looks much better.

60% are usually lacked with room to budge unless you get into 65% territory

I'm just looking for the layouts that it supports.  He has a specific vision for it, so wanted to know if there were any layouts that it supported, or whether it was a singular layout.  Split backspace is the one that I'm specifically looking at, but as he said that the sets would be smaller than the ones listed in the original spec, what that entails would be nice in any case. 

[zslane]

Long story short:

For the first run of this GB there is only one layout: ANSI. That's because MassDrop is designing/producing the custom PCB themselves and they only want to do one layout at first.

You have to disregard the kit renders I did earlier since they represent a version of this project that allowed existing 60% boards to fit into the custom case. That may happen in the future if enough people tell MassDrop they want to be able to do that, but for this first round the GB is for a fully built-out keyboard product in just the ANSI layout.

Long story long:

The unusual shape of the custom Rocketeer case places the rear USB cable connector port a fair distance from any 60% PCB's USB connector. The solution to this problem for MassDrop's PCB (which uses USB-C, BTW) is to manufacture a small daughterboard that bolts onto the PCB and essentially "extends" the USB-C port all the way to the back of the case. In order for other 60% boards to work inside this case, they too would need a daughterboard like this. MassDrop is willing to make daughterboards for micro-/mini-USB PCBs, but they aren't willing to do that until they discern a strong enough customer demand for it.

[dimo]

Long story short:

For the first run of this GB there is only one layout: ANSI. That's because MassDrop is designing/producing the custom PCB themselves and they only want to do one layout at first.

You have to disregard the kit renders I did earlier since they represent a version of this project that allowed existing 60% boards to fit into the custom case. That may happen in the future if enough people tell MassDrop they want to be able to do that, but for this first round the GB is for a fully built-out keyboard product in just the ANSI layout.

Long story long:

The unusual shape of the custom Rocketeer case places the rear USB cable connector port a fair distance from any 60% PCB's USB connector. The solution to this problem for MassDrop's PCB (which uses USB-C, BTW) is to manufacture a small daughterboard that bolts onto the PCB and essentially "extends" the USB-C port all the way to the back of the case. In order for other 60% boards to work inside this case, they too would need a daughterboard like this. MassDrop is willing to make daughterboards for micro-/mini-USB PCBs, but they aren't willing to do that until they discern a strong enough customer demand for it.

Sounds good to me !

[portbaron]

Wow, if it has a cool retro case like that I'm in for sure. Not sure I can handle the p|nus enter key though, hopefully that metal artisan one happens.

[chuckdee]

Long story short:

For the first run of this GB there is only one layout: ANSI. That's because MassDrop is designing/producing the custom PCB themselves and they only want to do one layout at first.

You have to disregard the kit renders I did earlier since they represent a version of this project that allowed existing 60% boards to fit into the custom case. That may happen in the future if enough people tell MassDrop they want to be able to do that, but for this first round the GB is for a fully built-out keyboard product in just the ANSI layout.

Long story long:

The unusual shape of the custom Rocketeer case places the rear USB cable connector port a fair distance from any 60% PCB's USB connector. The solution to this problem for MassDrop's PCB (which uses USB-C, BTW) is to manufacture a small daughterboard that bolts onto the PCB and essentially "extends" the USB-C port all the way to the back of the case. In order for other 60% boards to work inside this case, they too would need a daughterboard like this. MassDrop is willing to make daughterboards for micro-/mini-USB PCBs, but they aren't willing to do that until they discern a strong enough customer demand for it.

Thanks for the reply!  Sets my expectations! 

[zslane]

Wow, if it has a cool retro case like that I'm in for sure. Not sure I can handle the p|nus enter key though, hopefully that metal artisan one happens.

That symbol is being eliminated from the Return key. It will just be blank instead.

Of course, my choice would be to go with the lovely chrome artisan Return key... 

[dimo]

Do you have any idea on estimated price for the full kit Zslane?

And would it be able to separate kits? Like could I only buy keycaps or only the board?

[zslane]

In all honesty, I have no idea what the price will be like. But it won't be cheap. This thing is all custom and all top-shelf materials.

For the first GB this will only sell as a fully built-out keyboard. The idea here isn't to sell green keycaps, or a 60% PCB+plate. It is to provide a complete keyboard product. Maybe a future GB will break things out into separate components; this first GB will be used to assess the demand for that sort of thing (based on comments/questions in the drop's Discussion page).

[dimo]

In all honesty, I have no idea what the price will be like. But it won't be cheap. This thing is all custom and all top-shelf materials.

For the first GB this will only sell as a fully built-out keyboard. The idea here isn't to sell green keycaps, or a 60% PCB+plate. It is to provide a complete keyboard product. Maybe a future GB will break things out into separate components; this first GB will be used to assess the demand for that sort of thing (based on comments/questions in the drop's Discussion page).

Understood! Thanks

[elfick]

I know ISO isn't part of this run, but if/when you do, the ISO return artisan should be the rocket image you have in the render between "Murcury" and "Rocketeer" at the top of the case. 

[zslane]

I know ISO isn't part of this run, but if/when you do, the ISO return artisan should be the rocket image you have in the render between "Murcury" and "Rocketeer" at the top of the case. 

That's a great idea!

[SingSong]

Definitely sad that this isn't going to be a keycap set instead of a all-inclusive-set, since it's probably going to cost more and I really, really liked that shade of mint-ish green.

[TheNamesTy45]

In all honesty, I have no idea what the price will be like. But it won't be cheap. This thing is all custom and all top-shelf materials.

For the first GB this will only sell as a fully built-out keyboard. The idea here isn't to sell green keycaps, or a 60% PCB+plate. It is to provide a complete keyboard product. Maybe a future GB will break things out into separate components; this first GB will be used to assess the demand for that sort of thing (based on comments/questions in the drop's Discussion page).

Just wondering, does this mean that there likely won't be an option without switches?

I only ask because I want to add custom switches, and I just went through a marathon desoldering session (6 hours), and I remember how much I hate it. If the switches are included is the board likely to be a hot swap board?

It may be too early to say, but I was also curious to know how closely the design of the end product will mirror the earlier rendering on page 2. It seemed like a relatively complex design to machine.

[zslane]

The Rocketeer PCB is a hotswap board, and so I feel that ordering without switches is a totally reasonable option. I will try to nudge MassDrop towards making that option available.

The final keyboard will look virtually identical to my renders. Here is what the latest prototype case looks like (the brass plate will probably be an upgrade option during the drop):

[dimo]

The Rocketeer PCB is a hotswap board, and so I feel that ordering without switches is a totally reasonable option. I will try to nudge MassDrop towards making that option available.

The final keyboard will look virtually identical to my renders. Here is what the latest prototype case looks like (the brass plate will probably be an upgrade option during the drop):

(Attachment Link)

That looks damn good- although the color turned out a little lighter.

I think this whole project in collaboration with Massdrop is honestly a great step forward.The results of how well the drop turns out to be will also lead to more officially custom boards maybe making way onto Massdrop. And although r/mk as a whole constantly ****s on Massdrop, they’re the only reason we’ve become so big, and I love everything they’ve been doing.

This is truly revolutionary for our small community and I’m excited to see what happens.

[HOBI3CAT]

A little sad that there will not be an option for just the keycaps, although I totally understand why, and I think the whole project is really cool! I think a future drop of just the keycaps would be totally do-able, since there are not really many novelties, so SP wouldn't need to produce many (if any) custom molds. Only reason I wouldn't be in for the whole thing is because I already have 3 60% boards with a specific layout that I like (dedicated arrows, split spacebar, split backspace), so I will probably have to pass and just pray that there will be a future drop with just the caps. Really hoping this goes well though!

[zslane]

That looks damn good- although the color turned out a little lighter.

You kinda have to take the colors you see in any photo with a grain of salt. Lighting conditions, the competence of the photographer, and the calibration settings of your monitor all play a role in determining what colors you see, and so a photo isn't always a perfect representation of the item color(s) in real life. However, I do believe that MassDrop is trying to color match the Hermes Rocket typewriter they have in house, which is way better IMO than trying to match a CG render.

[TheNamesTy45]

The Rocketeer PCB is a hotswap board, and so I feel that ordering without switches is a totally reasonable option. I will try to nudge MassDrop towards making that option available.

The final keyboard will look virtually identical to my renders. Here is what the latest prototype case looks like (the brass plate will probably be an upgrade option during the drop):

(Attachment Link)

That's perfect. And the prototype does not disappoint at all!!

[child]

The final keyboard will look virtually identical to my renders. Here is what the latest prototype case looks like (the brass plate will probably be an upgrade option during the drop):

(Attachment Link)

Why is the plate mirrored left-right? 

[zslane]

Ha! That's a good question. My guess is that they just dropped the plate in to take a quick photo and didn't think to correctly orient it first.

[pixelpusher]

Very nice looking board.  I'll definitely save a spot in my plan for this one.  Hotswap and tray mount compatibility can be tricky, but I'm sure you know that.

[Kavik]

Wow! That prototype looks good. Good luck with the drop. I likely won't have the funds available for it, but I look forward to seeing others'.

[TheNamesTy45]

Been furiously refreshing Massdrop every morning at 9 hoping it's the day that this drops.

[child]

What is the angle of the plate?

[zslane]

The plate is flat, zero angle, by default. But when you add the rubber feet in the back, it gives the board a 3° angle.

[pixelpusher]

The plate is flat, zero angle, by default. But when you add the rubber feet in the back, it gives the board a 3° angle.

Heck yeah.  More low angle boards.  I'm loving it!  I can type on anything, but flat is just more comfortable for me.

[zslane]

The drop announcement is coming any day now. Stay tuned! 

[TheNamesTy45]

The drop announcement is coming any day now. Stay tuned! 

You must've read my mind. Was just getting ready to ask when you thought the drop would be happening this month.

[zslane]

I believe it is going to begin tomorrow morning at 6am PDT.

[TheNamesTy45]

I believe it is going to begin tomorrow morning at 6am PDT.

Oh. Yes.

[Rumblehotep]

I love everything about this.

[elfick]

@zslane Congrats, that board looks amazing!

[zslane]

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-zslane-mercury-rocketeer-mechanical-keyboard

[Photoelectric]

Definitely a cool board.  I would have loved to see the color of the typewriter to the left of the prototype (seems to be a bit less green, more toward beige).  Hoping a configuration with more options for the bottom rows will become available at some point (for a dedicated arrow cluster).

[chuckdee]

And idle thought... I wish there was a return lever like the querkywriter   But great getting it out there!  I hope the buy goes swimmingly!

[SpAmRaY]

Can we get it in black with white on black caps? I'd totally dig that. Call it fats domino.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[bciamny]

generally not a fan of retro styling/60%s but the way you've made all of this come together is pretty awesome zslane.

[hhkbp2]

I expect it supports more layout like hhkb and has more kits which contains keys like 1.75u shift, 7u spacebar and more novelties keys like previous kit layout shows. Anyway, nice work!

[portbaron]

Looks great, and not as expensive as I expected.

[TheNamesTy45]

Ordered this right when it became available. The pricing on this is unbelievable for everything that comes with. Was expecting it to be about $200 more.

[zslane]

I expect it supports more layout like hhkb and has more kits which contains keys like 1.75u shift, 7u spacebar and more novelties keys like previous kit layout shows. Anyway, nice work!

My original goal was to make it possible for people to put their own boards in, and I had compatibility keycap kits and the like rendered and ready to go, but the MassDrop engineering team couldn't come up with an easy way to make USB routing to the back of the case simple and secure for other boards.

[elfick]

According to John.Yu on massdrop, the PCB uses the standard mounting hole pattern so theoretically you could cut your own plate and build your own adapter to use any 60% PCB you wanted. Massdrop probably just didn't want the headache of supporting that and I don't blame them.

[hansichen]

According to John.Yu on massdrop, the PCB uses the standard mounting hole pattern so theoretically you could cut your own plate and build your own adapter to use any 60% PCB you wanted. Massdrop probably just didn't want the headache of supporting that and I don't blame them.

I think someone mentioned that the space bar stabilzer is 180° switched and therefore many pcbs won't be compatible, also this pcb's footprint is rather small so other pcbs may be too big.

[chuckdee]

According to John.Yu on massdrop, the PCB uses the standard mounting hole pattern so theoretically you could cut your own plate and build your own adapter to use any 60% PCB you wanted. Massdrop probably just didn't want the headache of supporting that and I don't blame them.

I think someone mentioned that the space bar stabilzer is 180° switched and therefore many pcbs won't be compatible, also this pcb's footprint is rather small so other pcbs may be too big.

You take care of that when you cut your own plate, don't you?  i.e. Stabilizer holes are switched to accommodate current PCB.  You choose different PCB, get corresponding plate cut, and you should be fine.

[Photoelectric]

Is the IC phase basically over for this round, seeing as the drop is live on Massdrop?  I see zslane has started a dedicated drop discussion thread here:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=96614.0

[zslane]

Yes.

If protocol here is that the IC thread should be locked, by all means lock it.

[Photoelectric]

It is indeed!  More organized that way.  Please proceed to the link above to continue the discussion about the drop.