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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:36:47

Title: [IC] KAM Ghost - GB Open June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:36:47
(https://i.imgur.com/VYlUBkS.png) (https://i.imgur.com/btGK41D.png) (https://i.imgur.com/vrQ9Awz.png)
GroupBuy opens Friday June 5th, 2020:
- Novelkeys.xyz- US
- MyKeyboard.eu - Europe
- zFrontier.com - China / Asia
- DailyClack.com - Australia / Oceania
- deskhero.ca - Canada
- QUAD-H | http://letsgetit.kr - South Korea

Prices:
24k MOQ.
NovelKeys.xyz:

TL;DR: Cover TKL for $80.


         NovelKeys      MyKeyboard.EU      en.zFrontier      zFrontier      dailyclack.com      deskhero.ca   
   Alphas - Normal      $35      $39      $35      $212      $53      $52   
   Alphas - St Croce      $35      $39      $35      $212      $53      $52   
   Mods - TKL      $45      $50      $45      $275      $68      $67   
   Mods - TKL Compat      $22      $25      $22      $135      $33      $33   
   Mods - Ergo Blanks      $35      $39      $35      $212      $53      $52   
   Mods - Ortho 40s      $38      $42      $38      $230      $57      $56   
   Novelty - Poetry      $22      $25      $22      $135      $33      $33   
   Novelty - Ire Poetry      $22      $25      $22      $135      $33      $33   
   Novelty - Ire Accent      $14      $16      $14      $85      $21      $21   
   Misc - Alt Frow      $15      $17      $15      $92      $23      $23   
   Misc - Blanks(Alpha color)      $15      $17      $15      $92      $23      $23   
   Misc - Blanks(MOD color)      $15      $17      $15      $92      $23      $23   
   Misc - Colverak Compat      $14      $16      $14      $85      $21      $21   
   Misc - Numpad      $25      $28      $25      $152      $38      $37   
   Misc - Spacebars      $18      $21      $18      $109      $27      $27   
   Misc - Split Space      $15      $17      $15      $92      $23      $23   
   Misc - UK ISO      $14      $16      $14      $85      $21      $21   

Story:
I noticed dark low contrast sets like Ninja, and Black-on-Black, and said, 'Hey, there's no low contrast white set to put on my Polycarb keyboard!'  Then I thought to myself 'What's low contrast and white?  ... A Ghost', and so the set was born.

Novelties:
For novelties, I wanted to do 'word poetry', where there are bunch of words that you can replace your alphas with and create little messages / poems.  I see them as messages from the 'Ghost' in your keyboard. This is the reason I went for a flat profile (so you can put the words anywhere).

There are two sets, with mostly the same words: Ire Poetry, and Poetry. Ire Poetry uses a grisly font and blood red color for a more horror movie ghost. Poetry uses the normal font, but a bit darker, and a few less aggressive words.

Font:
In addition to Normal Alphas, St Croce Alphas offer a unique, stylized font.  I chose this font because it gives you an optical illusion that letters are formed correctly, when in fact, they have the thin parts entirely missing.  The way the characters are both 'there' and 'not there' fits the Ghost theme.  The font itself is based on a worn away Roman font found in an old Franciscan church.  Very fitting for a Ghost.
(https://i.imgur.com/w2TPswv.png)

Profile: KAM
I set this up with no particular profile in mind (you can see discussion below).  I have settled on KAM after I figured out novelties, kits, and just the overall price.  The novelties (above) are best done with a flat profile, as you can move them around anywhere on the alpha block.  If we had any sculpted profile, this would not be possible, as the amount of keys needed to make sentences on any row would be ... um, difficult.

Colors:
Alpha Base: White / WS2
Alpha Legends: CMYK 2 0 0 15

Mod Base: Pantone 427u
Mod Legends: CMYK 3 3 0 27

Renders:
Jane
Featuring St Croce Alphas and Accents:
(https://i.imgur.com/VYlUBkS.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/O9yF78I.png)

910:
Featuring Alphas, Poetry, and Ire Accent
(https://i.imgur.com/btGK41D.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/hd2b6wJ.png)

RAMA M60-A:
Featuring Alphas and Ire Poetry.
(https://i.imgur.com/vrQ9Awz.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/f0tCudl.png)

Kit details:
(https://i.imgur.com/h01LXge.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/fHwNmsb.png)

Alphas lose the spacebar; which is moved into the TKL kit

(https://i.imgur.com/UX5O6CT.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/tVaIhr1.png)

TKL is now split between two kits, one to physically cover the common 6.25u and 7u layouts (wkl, hhkb, 65), and another set of compat for weird layouts / correct legends.

(https://i.imgur.com/qZMQZQS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/TggqwPQ.png)

Additional Kits:
Well, inspiration struck during all this time...
(https://i.imgur.com/sAYUj6u.png)
- I really liked this font, but the mod kits were just too busy, so offering it by itself seems like a good compromise.
- I think they are something custom molds just wouldn't be able to offer, and work pretty well with the simpler mods (like a title / body in a magazine).

(https://i.imgur.com/lQbmmV2.png)
- Red plus another cool font
- Note these are Alpha base color (white), not Modifier color.
- Yes, another Poetry kit, but I chose more aggressive / emo / metal words for a few.

(https://i.imgur.com/5RaWr1X.png)
- More traditional accents, for those who don't care to write poetry.

(https://i.imgur.com/urtI58Y.png)
- Mainly helping out compat on those weird layouts (atreus, etc.)
- Or just those folks who want blank KAM ortho layouts...?
- Also, you can use these to make your own novelties, if you feel so inclined!

(https://i.imgur.com/FGCmw3N.png)
- Oh, Jane 2 CE, you know you need that F13
- UK ISO, yep.  No St Croce version though.  Sorry.
- Colverak gets a stepped backspace, and homing keys in both alpha fonts.

Other Kits:
[Ergo Blanks]
(https://i.imgur.com/Bam6TR8.png)
- Confirmed gonna keep; waiting on some more renders.
- KAM means we are likely to actually make these!

Collaborations:
I have not lined anything up.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:39:19
do it in DCS
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: hineybush on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:40:14
DCS would be lit
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:40:54
get that 8 week lead time baybeeee
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:41:37
do it in DCS

Hmmm, you do have a point.  But I gotta make head to head poll vs the greatest profile of all time: AEK.   :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Rayndalf on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:43:02
DCS needs more love. And ergodox support... gotta take advantage of the 50 MOQ for blanks
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:44:42
DCS needs more love. And ergodox support... gotta take advantage of the 50 MOQ for blanks

50 MOQ for blanks...  I bet you could run a whole GB of blanks...   ;)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: ArchDill on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:47:06
It would be rad to get a DCS set. I have not come across any worth getting.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:49:17
It would be rad to get a DCS set. I have not come across any worth getting.

That implies you like my set.  :P

I'm actually pretty interested in DSS. (The new 'old' SP Profile.)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:50:40
Added a dumb form: Form here. (https://forms.gle/wifkBmdzRWzjenTa6)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: ArchDill on Mon, 06 May 2019, 16:52:03
It would be rad to get a DCS set. I have not come across any worth getting.

That implies you like my set.  :P

I'm actually pretty interested in DSS. (The new 'old' SP Profile.)

Indeed!
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Rayndalf on Mon, 06 May 2019, 17:29:13
DCS needs more love. And ergodox support... gotta take advantage of the 50 MOQ for blanks

50 MOQ for blanks...  I bet you could run a whole GB of blanks...   ;)
Pretty sure someone tried that with SA, then decided to jump straight to GMK next... its been a week since it closed and I still haven't gotten my invoice, so either they're busy with finals or they died.

Either way making an 'assembly' style kit like Oblotzky does (only just the mods, because this is SP) would have an easier time reaching MOQ and would take full advantage of SP's strength (affordable child kits).
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 17:37:29
DCS needs more love. And ergodox support... gotta take advantage of the 50 MOQ for blanks

50 MOQ for blanks...  I bet you could run a whole GB of blanks...   ;)
Pretty sure someone tried that with SA, then decided to jump straight to GMK next... its been a week since it closed and I still haven't gotten my invoice, so either they're busy with finals or they died.

Either way making an 'assembly' style kit like Oblotzky does (only just the mods, because this is SP) would have an easier time reaching MOQ and would take full advantage of SP's strength (affordable child kits).

Lol, I'm not talking about scud80's; I'm talking about my own SA Blank GB: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=98465.0

Yea, I like making SP kits, because they don't really care too much and I can set low MOQ's for them too.  (Like 15 or 25.)

But if the masses demand GMK, I can respect their money, er 'support'.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Owl- on Mon, 06 May 2019, 17:38:52
Reminds me of Ghost from Antman
(https://imgix.bustle.com/uploads/image/2018/7/1/b20239b4-b925-497b-aaf7-269178c2b759-screen-shot-2018-07-01-at-50925-pm.png?w=970&h=546&fit=crop&crop=faces&auto=format&q=70)

I'd also be interested in a DCS profile.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 17:47:05
Reminds me of Ghost from Antman
Show Image
(https://imgix.bustle.com/uploads/image/2018/7/1/b20239b4-b925-497b-aaf7-269178c2b759-screen-shot-2018-07-01-at-50925-pm.png?w=970&h=546&fit=crop&crop=faces&auto=format&q=70)


I'd also be interested in a DCS profile.
Nice.

I am considering red text accents; they would give it just enough pop on 'esc' and 'enter'. Optional of course.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 18:09:49
Reminds me of Ghost from Antman
Show Image
(https://imgix.bustle.com/uploads/image/2018/7/1/b20239b4-b925-497b-aaf7-269178c2b759-screen-shot-2018-07-01-at-50925-pm.png?w=970&h=546&fit=crop&crop=faces&auto=format&q=70)


I'd also be interested in a DCS profile.
Nice.

I am considering red text accents; they would give it just enough pop on 'esc' and 'enter'. Optional of course.

A quick KLE mockup:

(https://i.imgur.com/VhkAr9N.png)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Pluto19 on Mon, 06 May 2019, 18:24:42
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 18:34:30
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: vicissitude on Mon, 06 May 2019, 18:58:36
Really ghost,haha.
Nice design.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: coffeeshopcoder on Mon, 06 May 2019, 19:14:20
Yes !!! DCS and the red legended accents !!!
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Vigrith on Mon, 06 May 2019, 19:42:15
DSS.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 06 May 2019, 21:17:08
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...

there's been a cult asking for a DCS set for a while

if this doesn't go DCS i'll probably do one
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 21:36:04
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...

there's been a cult asking for a DCS set for a while

if this doesn't go DCS i'll probably do one
A cult you say.

How do I join? Buy DCS Midnight?

Or just DCS Blanks...?
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 06 May 2019, 21:39:11
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...

there's been a cult asking for a DCS set for a while

if this doesn't go DCS i'll probably do one
A cult you say.

How do I join? Buy DCS Midnight?

Or just DCS Blanks...?

if you don't want to run this in DCS i've got plans so don't feel obligated

i bet it'd be rockin in DSA, since the bigger legends might make it a bit more legible

in DCS this would probably end up like SA chronicler
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 21:59:21
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...

there's been a cult asking for a DCS set for a while

if this doesn't go DCS i'll probably do one
A cult you say.

How do I join? Buy DCS Midnight?

Or just DCS Blanks...?

if you don't want to run this in DCS i've got plans so don't feel obligated

i bet it'd be rockin in DSA, since the bigger legends might make it a bit more legible

in DCS this would probably end up like SA chronicler
The thinner legends in the mods are a little concerning for sure.

Wonder if the DSS legends are from DSA or DCS...
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Minterly on Mon, 06 May 2019, 22:11:51
Uhh okay I really like this but please uniform profile 🙏🏻
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 06 May 2019, 22:20:27
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...

there's been a cult asking for a DCS set for a while

if this doesn't go DCS i'll probably do one
A cult you say.

How do I join? Buy DCS Midnight?

Or just DCS Blanks...?

if you don't want to run this in DCS i've got plans so don't feel obligated

i bet it'd be rockin in DSA, since the bigger legends might make it a bit more legible

in DCS this would probably end up like SA chronicler
The thinner legends in the mods are a little concerning for sure.

Wonder if the DSS legends are from DSA or DCS...

has SP even run and DSS sets yet?
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 06 May 2019, 22:38:19
DCS Ghost would be dope fursure.

Is GH a secret DCS alcove or something?  Thought they were a little too thin for most folks tastes these days ('thicc'er == better)...

there's been a cult asking for a DCS set for a while

if this doesn't go DCS i'll probably do one
A cult you say.

How do I join? Buy DCS Midnight?

Or just DCS Blanks...?

if you don't want to run this in DCS i've got plans so don't feel obligated

i bet it'd be rockin in DSA, since the bigger legends might make it a bit more legible

in DCS this would probably end up like SA chronicler
The thinner legends in the mods are a little concerning for sure.

Wonder if the DSS legends are from DSA or DCS...

has SP even run and DSS sets yet?
They are getting DSS Dolch out in July, according to the website.

I was poking them about it; since I'm interested in running DSS Blanks at some point...
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: bthezebra on Mon, 06 May 2019, 23:48:24
Pretty cool idea
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: lakeboredom on Tue, 07 May 2019, 05:34:35
Here kitty KAT!
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 07 May 2019, 09:47:49
Looks like I inadvertently created a "Whats Your Favorite Keycap Profile?" thread...
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: KingOfMemes on Tue, 07 May 2019, 09:52:23
Uhh okay I really like this but please uniform profile 🙏🏻

Yeah, help us Colemak bois out <3
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 07 May 2019, 12:30:54
Uhh okay I really like this but please uniform profile

Yeah, help us Colemak bois out <3
Dozens of you folks! Dozens!

Likely gonna stick with SP, so we can do low MOQ ColeMak.

Got an interesting response from SP: DSS will have DSA legends. DCS also has some different legends than what's in their shop.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: KingOfMemes on Tue, 07 May 2019, 12:43:12
Uhh okay I really like this but please uniform profile

Yeah, help us Colemak bois out <3
Dozens of you folks! Dozens!

Likely gonna stick with SP, so we can do low MOQ ColeMak.

Got an interesting response from SP: DSS will have DSA legends. DCS also has some different legends than what's in their shop.

Yeah man, I'd love sculpted + low moq colemak extras <3
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Tyson on Tue, 07 May 2019, 14:54:47
I'd be down to get a DCS version of this, I think it would look really cool on white boards!
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 07 May 2019, 15:11:03
I'd be down to get a DCS version of this, I think it would look really cool on white boards!

Yup, MAO is a popular color, which is also something I had thought would drive interest in an almost white keyset.  :)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Xynerorias on Tue, 07 May 2019, 18:12:54
Please, DCS or KAT. One of the two. We already have so much cherry and sa sets.

Sent from my ONE A2001 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 07 May 2019, 18:23:19
Please, DCS or KAT. One of the two. We already have so much cherry and sa sets.

Sent from my ONE A2001 using Tapatalk

KAT has been delayed for like a year...

I'm likely sold on one of either DCS / DSS / DSA.

The reason for DSA is that I've got a neat idea for novelties, where they'll replace the alphas, and doing it as non-Uniform doesn't allow for as much....creativity. 
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: coffeeshopcoder on Tue, 07 May 2019, 18:25:15
Kat is a good choice too - but I wonder about compatibility.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 07 May 2019, 18:58:14
Kat is a good choice too - but I wonder about compatibility.

I'm really really curious how different DSS is from KAT.  They are both Medium Profile, Spherical. 

Also, PBT is likely out the door, unless I flip the colors from [White on Gray] to [Gray on White].
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fombat on Wed, 08 May 2019, 03:55:10
dss and my money is guaranteed
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: tex_live_utility on Wed, 08 May 2019, 06:22:04
Kat is a good choice too - but I wonder about compatibility.

I'm really really curious how different DSS is from KAT.  They are both Medium Profile, Spherical. 

Also, PBT is likely out the door, unless I flip the colors from [White on Gray] to [Gray on White].

DSS is also sadly vaporware.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 08 May 2019, 13:26:10
Here's my crazy idea for DSA:

'Spooky' Writings Novelties:
So the Ghost in your keyboard can finally leave you some messages.

Mock Up:
(https://i.imgur.com/X0QOeMk.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Kokaloo on Wed, 08 May 2019, 13:30:52
👻 spoopy 👻
so cute tho! DCS from what others are saying would be swell, but DSA is also nice toooo
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Thu, 09 May 2019, 19:37:09
Some interesting info: SP apparently has a ton of different DCS molds.  16 for right shift alone.

I'm probably gonna bite and order a few samples of things that are not the mold they have in their shop (since they didn't have any pictures of the different molds).  I think that one really looks terrible (Left Aligned, Text + Icon),  Centered, Text, and hopefully bigger.

Does anyone have feedback about the colors? (White on Light Gray, with possibly Red accents)  Everyone seems focused on the profile...
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fombat on Thu, 09 May 2019, 21:15:56
I think most people are focused on the profile because they're pretty down with the colors really nice unique idea man.

Like the only deal breaker for me at this point is if it's SA or terribly expensive, so all I can really comment on is the profile.

I would like to see some more fleshed out renters with the red legends as I'm not sold on them atm
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Thu, 09 May 2019, 23:42:58
I think most people are focused on the profile because they're pretty down with the colors really nice unique idea man.

Like the only deal breaker for me at this point is if it's SA or terribly expensive, so all I can really comment on is the profile.

I would like to see some more fleshed out renters with the red legends as I'm not sold on them atm

Lol, so everyone is just in quiet awe...

I'm pretty settled on: Not SA, and it's unlikely to be super expensive, considering other SP sets out there (DSA Scientific: $30 Alphas).

I hear you on the renders.  Once I settle on profile, I'll get some much nice ones.  :)

If I can get some better mod legends on DCS, I'll likely pick it.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: distel on Fri, 10 May 2019, 02:22:30
I understand that you do not have set mock ups (what is in the set) but please add left shift (or ISO) compatibility and I am in.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: Xerra on Fri, 10 May 2019, 02:26:00
Dig the set. Would love more words in the Spooky kit to get a few more spooky combinations!
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 12 May 2019, 16:31:20
I understand that you do not have set mock ups (what is in the set) but please add left shift (or ISO) compatibility and I am in.
I will follow the kits many have made. ISO support will happen. :)
Dig the set. Would love more words in the Spooky kit to get a few more spooky combinations!
I'll give it a try. If I do DCS, I'll really have to think it through.  I do want to stay away from overly negative words, like "kill" "murder" etc.  And lean toward more read-between-the-lines words.

I am waiting to hear back from SP about available DCS legends, and/or pay for some samples.

I'm like 75% leaning towards DCS. I'm also working on kits. I will increase the contrast for the images (so you can actually understand the kit).
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: DisplayERROR on Wed, 15 May 2019, 13:40:13
I'm into it but, probably only if it comes out in DSA. Hope the ghost letters turn out well. Personally, I think the red would work better as stock accents, not a huge fan of the words.
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 15 May 2019, 14:24:05
I'm into it but, probably only if it comes out in DSA. Hope the ghost letters turn out well. Personally, I think the red would work better as stock accents, not a huge fan of the words.

Killing me here.  DSA but not the unique feature of DSA (swapping the caps around).  :p

As an update, I'm gonna order samples in DCS and DSA with Grey / White and Grey Red to see how they look in person.

If we do DCS, I'll have to likely shell out for custom mod legends @ $50 a pop, per unique size.  :eek:
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 15 May 2019, 15:56:41
Finalized samples.

SP says it'll be a month.   :(

I ordered:

Cap Color GSL, Legend Color WA
DSA 1u 'ESC'
DSA 1u 'Q'
DCS R1 1u 'ESC'
DCS R2 1u 'Q'

Cap Color GSL, Legend Color RCQ
DSA 1u 'ESC'
DCS R1 1u 'ESC'


And also a darker gray:
Cap Color GTL, Legend Color WA
DSA 1u 'ESC'
DSA 1u 'Q'

Cap Color GTL, Legend Color RCQ
DSA 1u 'ESC'

I think that will give some ideas of what this will look like in the flesh, more than a render can.   ;)
Title: Re: [IC] Ghost - Profile TBD
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 17 May 2019, 20:42:59
I'm into it but, probably only if it comes out in DSA. Hope the ghost letters turn out well. Personally, I think the red would work better as stock accents, not a huge fan of the words.

Killing me here.  DSA but not the unique feature of DSA (swapping the caps around).  :p

As an update, I'm gonna order samples in DCS and DSA with Grey / White and Grey Red to see how they look in person.

If we do DCS, I'll have to likely shell out for custom mod legends @ $50 a pop, per unique size.  :eek:

Thinking more about this, I'm gonna call DCS much less likely. 

I'm expecting the contrast to be low on the samples, and the thin font won't do favors.  Thickening up the legends will be extremely expensive, and if the FRow / ESC need to be thickened up AS WELL, then we are only using DCS Alpha legends at that point.

I've got an idea for a DCS PBT set, more on that 'soon'.

I've also made a request for renders on polycarb in the meantime as that's an important target for this set to look good on.
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: zeroisnothing on Fri, 17 May 2019, 21:13:11
in for DCS
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: fireworm on Sat, 18 May 2019, 01:49:21
in for DCS
Lol, killing me. Literally just downplayed DCS.

Compatibility is gonna be the trade off, due to probable legend cost.

Hopefully samples show it won't be that big an issue.
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: Rayndalf on Sat, 18 May 2019, 04:07:19
I'm probably an outlier, but I actually like the 'Wyse' font used.on older DCS keycaps, of course those thinner legends would look terrible with low contrast colors... DSA really is a better fit for this colorway, but us DCS boys are getting hungry :p (I use an older Kinesis Advantage that has doubleshot DCS caps, and given obscurity of the layout I've learned to love their 'Cherry only its casual Friday' quality).
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 22 May 2019, 18:41:02
Here's DSA:

Renders by the ever-amazing Oblotzky:

Contrast I think is just right; enough to be legible, not enough to be 'obvious'. 

The light gray is slightly warm.

(https://i.imgur.com/2Au7e7d.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/YRSmX5X.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3hSjD5s.png)
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: fombat on Wed, 22 May 2019, 22:33:19
i thought this sets colors were these but in reverse regardless from the renders the grey looks too dark
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 22 May 2019, 22:52:19
i thought this sets colors were these but in reverse regardless from the renders the grey looks too dark
Welp, that's what renders are for. :)

I actually have a hard time finding a lighter gray in SP colors. Otherwise, it's two creamy white colors.

Samples will help, when I get them.
Title: Re: [IC] [DCS -or- DSA] Ghost
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 26 May 2019, 01:17:34
I've had some time to think, play with renders and gain some confidence.

I'm changing to PBT flat profile dyesub. XDA or DSA. (or maybe SP SA PBT R3.)

This has the following implications / reasoning:
1) The spooky words will be way easier / cheaper to make. I think this will add some fun, and stand out among keysets.
2) This let's me try something else interesting and novel... "soon".
3) I can finally make progress on kits. Kits can be way more flexible (easier to design as well).
4) This lets me likely have lower / cheaper moqs. (I feel it's unrealistic to hit 250 moq with how quiet this thread as been. 100 is where I'm thinking.)
5) White on gray is likely out (unless I get keyreative dsa). Gray on white or gray on paper lighter gray is likely in. (Renders will come soon enough.)
6) I felt the gray was too warm and too dark. And the ABS colors didn't have enough flexibility to fix this.

I wish I made this decision before ordering samples, but oh well. Lesson for other folks: renders first, then samples.

Let me know what you think!

Things I need to settle:
Actual colors. White, light gray. Plus red. (If not red, what?)
Kits (but this should come soon).
Which profile. (I need to get in contact with some China folks.)
Proxies. (I'm the US / CA vendor, likely mykeyboard.eu for EU, and likely kbdfans? for Asia).
Title: Re: [IC] [XDA -or- DSA] Ghost - Flat Profile Update
Post by: eas on Sun, 26 May 2019, 13:56:33
Looks awesome. I'd love XDA or PBT SA
Title: Re: [IC] [XDA -or- DSA] Ghost - Flat Profile Update
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 28 May 2019, 15:36:15
Here's some preliminary kits:

COLORS ARE NOT ACCURATE.
NOVELTIES COMING SOON.

(https://i.imgur.com/0kxxG2Q.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/5wmMTrP.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ams3lJp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ONpaV05.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/HE8t1hO.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/tfT3H0L.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/qG18uji.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/1pVwIoh.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/klS8yoa.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/3H5M7nC.png)

COLORS ARE NOT ACCURATE.
NOVELTIES COMING SOON.
ISO / Int'l coming soon.

I split out FRow, since I think there are more 60's folks that will benefit from possibly cheaper prices.

Question for you: Does this cover what you need?
Title: Re: [IC] [XDA -or- DSA] Ghost - Flat Profile Update | Added Prelim Kits
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 29 May 2019, 17:36:03
Needs tweaking, but this is where I'm headed:

(https://i.imgur.com/gWBbYt7.png)

Custom font, gray on gray.

And yes, your eyes are playing tricks on you, the letters are not wholly formed  :cool::
(https://i.imgur.com/w2TPswv.png)
Title: Re: [IC] [XDA -or- DSA] Ghost - May 29: Font + Teaser Render
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 07 June 2019, 16:48:05
Updated main post with renders and more context / info.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: gotemall on Fri, 07 June 2019, 20:03:24
I like the set but can we get some "Ghost Accents" with some nice flat pastel colors to match?
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 07 June 2019, 21:09:52
I like the set but can we get some "Ghost Accents" with some nice flat pastel colors to match?

I'm sticking with the lightest possible colors here.  Literally found these 'next to gray' in a pantone picker.   :p

Is this what you had in mind?

(https://i.imgur.com/EiG3hBw.png)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: eas on Fri, 07 June 2019, 21:16:47
I do not want to buy anymore sets but I'd buy this.  :))
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 09 June 2019, 10:58:10
Hey folks,

Doesn't seem like I've hit the mark.

I've gotten feedback that more or less says the features I'm aiming for aren't quite gelling yet. Phrases like "too low contrast" "font is illegible" etc.

I'll leave the form open for feedback.

Also feel free to DM me any other thoughts on discord: fireworm#4461
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: dr_unconscionable on Sun, 09 June 2019, 11:13:22
Literally the whole point of this set was to be low contrast. People complaining about that seems stupid -- it's just not for them in that case probably. Every IC has these comments from people saying basically "I'd love this if only it were completely different".
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 09 June 2019, 12:19:09
Literally the whole point of this set was to be low contrast. People complaining about that seems stupid -- it's just not for them in that case probably. Every IC has these comments from people saying basically "I'd love this if only it were completely different".
Thanks for the support!

While I think I have some strong supporters, the numbers don't show.

My form, which is really just one checkbox, only got 50 responses. Most responses here aren't the responses I see in other ICs like "take my money!!" or "GB when???".

This signals to me that I'm missing "something", so I'll play around a bit more and see what I can find.

It will still be low contrast white. :)

Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: glubazoid on Sun, 09 June 2019, 12:36:48
Not really a fan of the humanist-ish typeface, but I get what you're going for.

Also, I love low contrast sets. Keep on keepin' on
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: gotemall on Sun, 09 June 2019, 14:27:14
I like the set but can we get some "Ghost Accents" with some nice flat pastel colors to match?

I'm sticking with the lightest possible colors here.  Literally found these 'next to gray' in a pantone picker.   :p

Is this what you had in mind?

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/EiG3hBw.png)

That is exactly what had crossed my mind, to spice it up a bit.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 09 June 2019, 15:36:00
Not really a fan of the humanist-ish typeface, but I get what you're going for.

Also, I love low contrast sets. Keep on keepin' on
Yea, font seems to be really hit and miss with folks. Even those who liked it said merely "interesting" and "I like it". So feels like it's not really adding anything, only changing something. It also makes it a little difficult to balance low contrast on the mods, since I have to go darker in font color.
I like the set but can we get some "Ghost Accents" with some nice flat pastel colors to match?

I'm sticking with the lightest possible colors here.  Literally found these 'next to gray' in a pantone picker.   

Is this what you had in mind?

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/EiG3hBw.png)

That is exactly what had crossed my mind, to spice it up a bit.  :thumb:
Cool.

Here's a render, playing with those colors, and trying darker mods.  I don't like the darker mods, practically no contrast.

(https://i.imgur.com/nw3ZpBf.png)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: vicissitude on Sun, 09 June 2019, 19:10:04
This is so cool.
Love it.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: gotemall on Sun, 09 June 2019, 21:03:17
Oh that looks nice, need a nice orange in there also then its complete.
You said you are also working on some novelties? Like to see what you come up with.

(https://i.imgur.com/nw3ZpBf.png)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 09 June 2019, 21:12:21
Oh that looks nice, need a nice orange in there also then its complete.
You said you are also working on some novelties? Like to see what you come up with.

https://i.imgur.com/nw3ZpBf.png

(https://i.imgur.com/lYjpVWW.png)

This is where I was headed, though it's pretty much a WIP at this point.  Not even sure I like the font.
Idea is that since we are flat profile, you could move the words around to create spooky / no so spooky messages.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: gotemall on Sun, 09 June 2019, 21:27:41
Oh that looks nice, need a nice orange in there also then its complete.
You said you are also working on some novelties? Like to see what you come up with.

https://i.imgur.com/nw3ZpBf.png

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/lYjpVWW.png)


This is where I was headed, though it's pretty much a WIP at this point.  Not even sure I like the font.
Idea is that since we are flat profile, you could move the words around to create spooky / no so spooky messages.
Oh ok, I see where you are going, you mean "GMK Ghost" like in a rated R/Horror Movie/Scary type ghost/related.
I thought you were go with a more friendly/fun/funny type ghosts, the likes of say Casper/Boo (Mario)/Ghost buster or even Like the Pac Man type ghosts and things that related to that genera, etc.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 09 June 2019, 21:55:39
Oh that looks nice, need a nice orange in there also then its complete.
You said you are also working on some novelties? Like to see what you come up with.

https://i.imgur.com/nw3ZpBf.png

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/lYjpVWW.png)


This is where I was headed, though it's pretty much a WIP at this point.  Not even sure I like the font.
Idea is that since we are flat profile, you could move the words around to create spooky / no so spooky messages.
Oh ok, I see where you are going, you mean "GMK Ghost" like in a rated R/Horror Movie/Scary type ghost/related.
I thought you were go with a more friendly/fun/funny type ghosts, the likes of say Casper/Boo (Mario)/Ghost buster or even Like the Pac Man type ghosts and things that related to that genera, etc.
Yea, the font really goes straight to horror movie, which is why I'm not sold yet.

I wanted to allow both horror and fun. "I have candy it's OK" can be both sinister and consoling.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: Sintpinty on Mon, 10 June 2019, 20:29:51
Woah.... if you added gold coloured letters it would look classy. But it already does. Good.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 11 June 2019, 11:02:33
Woah.... if you added gold coloured letters it would look classy. But it already does. Good.
Thanks for your support!

Please take 2 seconds to fill out the form here. (https://forms.gle/wifkBmdzRWzjenTa6)  :)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: Abec13 on Wed, 12 June 2019, 14:39:33
Just came here to post this.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 7 - Renders / Revamp.
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 19 June 2019, 13:00:44
Hey folks:

Another update:

(https://i.imgur.com/lnIdESE.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/EpnLprp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/98NTTVH.jpg)

Things I changed:

Font: Back to a 'normal' font.  The new font was too busy on the mods, and coupled with low contrast, made them more difficult to read than they should be.  I'll consider using Roman font for novelties.

Colors: I went for a more traditional two tone, with mods having a darker base than alphas.  I tried to keep alphas gray, but there wasn't enough contrast between them and the mods.  So, I made the alphas white to keep everything feeling clean and light.  The mod color itself is now 'WFJ' from SP, which is technically a white color. (I find it amusing that I'm still using white for 'dark' mods.)  I did some guerrilla polling and found this to quite popular.  Let me know what you think!

Profile: I forgot that KAM was an option.  KAM is thicker than XDA.  It is also slightly more expensive.  No sets have run with KAM yet, so there is likely risk for production delays.  The caps are spherical like DSA, but taller.
Fill out the form. (https://forms.gle/q68VqKUNVhEfZhrm9)

Things I need to change:
Kits: I need to redo mod kits to reflect the new color scheme.  I need to pick another accent color; I think red text is perhaps too bold.  I'm leaning towards Blue Gray base, plus Gray text.

Novelties: I need to pick a better font. And update the mock ups.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 23 June 2019, 12:49:37
(https://i.imgur.com/EW5wRsf.jpg)

Welp.

Please cast your vote if you haven't: https://forms.gle/heGCUVSgoW8kfDn3A
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: Rayndalf on Sun, 23 June 2019, 14:30:20
Judging by the samples for KAM Wraith, KAM is extremely shiny compared to all other PBT dyesubbed caps, which might make some already faint legends a bit too ethereal for some people.
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=97181.150
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 26 June 2019, 12:46:33
Final results:

(https://i.imgur.com/62Rr14Y.png)

I'm calling this a tie, as the margin is small.

I'll break this tie: Staying XDA.

Reasoning:  Not an overwhelming amount of interest was for KAM, and with KAM still being more expensive and less 'proven', I'm opting for the cheaper more reliable profile.

I appreciate everyone taking the time to participate in the poll.

Next up:

Get some renders with accent colors.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 04 October 2019, 13:58:33
This is not dead.

Will have some announcements 'soon'.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: Mcnos on Fri, 04 October 2019, 14:19:16
I also vote for DCS
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 04 October 2019, 15:08:03
I also vote for DCS

I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I've settled on XDA profile.  Hope that also suits your taste.  :)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: bd_slade on Sat, 05 October 2019, 20:31:45
I'm new to the keycaps game, so I'm glad this got bumped up! Really like the look of the recent renders and appreciate how much you're working with the community to develop it. I'll be keeping an eye on this set! Good luck! :)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: RefrigeratedToiletPaper on Sat, 12 October 2019, 22:18:15
I love that this set is XDA. I'm definitely on board with this. Is there a drop date set?
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - June 19 - Colors + Font change
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 16 October 2019, 17:33:40
More renders, this time with a yellow accent:

Settling some kits, and getting renders for those next.

(https://i.imgur.com/3ZDTQYj.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/3Ysx2xz.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/vqbpor4.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: MdotMaxson on Wed, 16 October 2019, 18:38:00
I’ll purchase contingent that ergo blanks stays.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: tectonicplate on Wed, 16 October 2019, 23:54:28
Previous typeface was so much better for this concept. It's a shame. Loosing that feeling for a barely more legible read is a poor trade IMO, but whatever.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: dom on Thu, 17 October 2019, 05:09:58
This is actually the "most exciting" set for me, totally my kind of esthetics and needs :D
Thank you for making it, I'm definitely in!

Will grab them all ;P


BTW: Design is hard. If you feel lost, a good idea is to back to the first design (which is very often the best option). That said, I love the "normal font", XDA and no colors ;)

xoxo


(https://i.imgur.com/rCLZP3j.gif)

Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: fireworm on Thu, 17 October 2019, 15:06:06
I'm new to the keycaps game, so I'm glad this got bumped up! Really like the look of the recent renders and appreciate how much you're working with the community to develop it. I'll be keeping an eye on this set! Good luck! :)
Glad to have your support!

I love that this set is XDA. I'm definitely on board with this. Is there a drop date set?
Finalizing details.

This is actually the "most exciting" set for me, totally my kind of esthetics and needs :D
Thank you for making it, I'm definitely in!

Will grab them all ;P


BTW: Design is hard. If you feel lost, a good idea is to back to the first design (which is very often the best option). That said, I love the "normal font", XDA and no colors ;)

xoxo


Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/rCLZP3j.gif)



Tell me about it!  The thing is some refinements are needed regardless, as I can observe how people are reacting, and if they are (mostly) saying things I want.  I also get feedback and ideas that become more obvious, as I'm still learning.  Also, inspiration sometimes just comes from nowhere, and needs to be managed.  :P


I’ll purchase contingent that ergo blanks stays.
I'll be honest, I worried about the excitement over ergo, and like many other sets have decided to drop support for it.  Ortho + 40's is the compromise I've settled on for now, and even then I worry for that kit.

Previous typeface was so much better for this concept. It's a shame. Loosing that feeling for a barely more legible read is a poor trade IMO, but whatever.
I agree with the point of it being a good concept.  The downside of that font is legibility / busy-ness on smaller mods.  It becomes muddy and harder to read than it should IMO.  I've yet to be confident enough for a post modern keycap set.  ;)

Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: RefrigeratedToiletPaper on Sat, 26 October 2019, 15:35:40
Yes please. I love this set in XDA. **** those novelties though lol
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 27 October 2019, 14:25:20
Yes please. I love this set in XDA. **** those novelties though lol
Lol, thanks for the support!

Do you have other ideas for novelites? I'm tweaking the novelties, trying to balance "pain" with things like "candy" or "love".
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: painstar on Mon, 28 October 2019, 16:02:28
I really love the pastel modifiers. I wish the font was smaller like canvas Or italic like oblique.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: aodaliya1234 on Wed, 11 December 2019, 04:42:42
Have the outline of a little ghost as one of the novelties to go with the theme?
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Oct 16 - More Renders
Post by: Pizza_on_Pineapple on Sat, 28 December 2019, 05:17:42
I like it! I love the idea you had for the novelties, fits well with the theme. Imo the words don't even need to be in the accent color or maybe just a slightly different shade of grey, so it's more of a hidden message.
I'd also be in favor of the split space kit, but it wouldn't be the end of the world if you have to cut it.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: fireworm on Tue, 07 January 2020, 13:22:04
Updated kits and got some renders for them.

In other news, I'm reconsidering KAM.  Mainly due to KAM Wraith having a matte finish, and seemingly easier to get a hold of.

I've revamped novelties to be more robust, IMO.

I've removed the red text in favor of using pastel accents.  I think it's more suited at the moment.

I'm also going to bring back the St Croce font for another set of alphas, making it optional.
So two sets of alphas: One fancy, one normal.
Will get some renders of these new alphas 'soon'.

Kits:
Alphas: Yep, here they are.
(https://i.imgur.com/LmOKopv.png)

TKL:
(https://i.imgur.com/icd3nOr.png)

Numpad: For those spreadsheet users:
(https://i.imgur.com/XinGXnd.png)

ISO: For those dozens of folks:
(https://i.imgur.com/7rhLPtD.png)

40s + Ortho:  Combining these to help them meet moq.
(https://i.imgur.com/yEXYsAL.png)

Split Space: I'm personally a fan, but not a 40s user, so let's offer it separate.
(https://i.imgur.com/8rkAtya.png)

Novelties:  For that ghost in your keyboard.  Note the font will be darker than normal alphas, but still on alpha colored caps:
(https://i.imgur.com/gxCFVqx.png)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: Vortex_Rikers on Wed, 08 January 2020, 10:58:14
I love this set and the idea behind it! I wasn't around on GH since its inception but I've been hoping for an update from the moment I stumbled upon this thread!

I think XDA would be more suited than KAM for this set on account of it being more flat, but I have no hands-on experience with either profile, so ... I should get my hands on XDA keycaps soon though, which may change my mind.

Also, the novelties set has a "DON'T" but no "DO" key. Is this intentional ?
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: Graysonneal14 on Sat, 01 February 2020, 21:17:47
Combining alphas and TKL and maybe removing or separating the alt colored mod keys would make this a day one join.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: ILikeShorts on Sun, 02 February 2020, 14:45:20
No homing kit to automatically support colevrak+? This is a flat profile, no?
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 03 February 2020, 15:05:19
No homing kit to automatically support colevrak+? This is a flat profile, no?
Switching to KAM makes this easier, and likely supported.

I love this set and the idea behind it! I wasn't around on GH since its inception but I've been hoping for an update from the moment I stumbled upon this thread!

I think XDA would be more suited than KAM for this set on account of it being more flat, but I have no hands-on experience with either profile, so ... I should get my hands on XDA keycaps soon though, which may change my mind.

Also, the novelties set has a "DON'T" but no "DO" key. Is this intentional ?
I'll give it a little thought; thanks for the feedback, thanks for the support!

Combining alphas and TKL and maybe removing or separating the alt colored mod keys would make this a day one join.
What makes combining more appealing than two kits (with the same keys)?  Alphas are split so you can buy Alphas + Ortho or Alphas + TKL.

FWIW, going to KAM means I can likely split out accents, and not worry about MOQ.

Sorry about delays here.  Working with vendors is taking longer than I anticipated, esp. with LNY / Virus.

I'm targeting Q2 for GB launch.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: eas on Tue, 04 February 2020, 13:06:20
I'd be delighted to join this if KAM and Ortho kit is its own kit, regardless of how long it takes.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: timescam on Fri, 07 February 2020, 06:04:05
Just fond this IC.
As a colevrak user, KAM pleases me. As the way MOQ works makes a homing set for cloverak possible.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 09 February 2020, 12:53:26
A study in white:

(https://imgur.com/erHPs3L.png)

Flash ON, Samsung Note 9.

I finally got in some color samples, and I wanted to compare to some white things I had lying around.

Short story, the base white I was using for the alphas is an impossible color, so I'm going to go down into lighter grays.  I'm gonna get more chips from SP, as well as a few Pantone plastic chips.  I'm also going to evaluate RAL colors, but worry a little bit, since I won't be able to get physical samples easily.

Longer story: I was planning on KAT Alpha as the base white, because for some reason, I thought it was white-white.  It's not.  The other color choices I made were based around this, so they are all off.  I poked around to see if anything else I had lying around was 'white'.  They are all not.  In fact, the MOD's appear bluer, and more 'white' than anything else here.  I was somewhat surprised at how yellow the yellow accent does appear, so I will likely keep it, or step it down to Carbon's creamy color.

Note that I consider all these 'white', but you can see how much they all vary.

Here's some more pics:
(https://imgur.com/SBm5MgH.png)
- Up close, flash.

(https://imgur.com/kp9J8Qt.png)
- Cloudy day, no flash.

Also, here's a sample of the lightness I'm going for in the legends ('CAPS  *' is my choice):
(https://imgur.com/vjebZ2H.png)

It may help to print this out to verify.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: Graysonneal14 on Thu, 02 April 2020, 22:48:02
Man I really would like an update on this.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: fireworm on Thu, 02 April 2020, 23:25:43
Man I really would like an update on this.
Need some renders before I update. :)
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: hottrout on Mon, 13 April 2020, 04:27:44
I really like the look of the XDA profile and would love a clean XDA set to try.  Watching this.
Title: Re: [IC] XDA Ghost - Jan 7 - More Renders / Kit Reorg
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 06 May 2020, 17:16:37
BIG Update!

Hello again!

After phasing in and out of existence on updates, I am elated to finally announce the following major updates:
KAM Profile
- Yes, I waffled about this a lot, but after some discussions, I've settled on this.  This will be the matte version, not the shiny one.
- This will let me have more flexiblility in the kits, so the stranger kits get made (UK ISO, ortho / 40s, mainly).

Kits and Kit Updates
- Detailed below.
- TLDR: Added some novelties, split TKL into two kits, added another Alpha kit.

GroupBuy opens Friday June 5th, 2020:
- NovelKeys - US
- zFrontier - China / Asia
- More coming!

Prices
Shooting for the 24k MOQ.
TBD

Renders:
Jane
Featuring St Croce Alphas and Accents:
(https://i.imgur.com/VYlUBkS.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/O9yF78I.png)

More to come!

Kit details:
(https://i.imgur.com/h01LXge.png)
Alphas lose the spacebar; which is moved into the TKL kit

(https://i.imgur.com/Fb9KMH6.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/oXgWDDy.png)
TKL is now split between two kits, one for the common 6.25u spacebar layout, and another for the slightly less common Tsangan 7u and other more unusual 7u layouts (with 1u ctrl / alt).

(https://i.imgur.com/qZMQZQS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/TggqwPQ.png)

Additional Kits:
Well, inspiration struck during all this time...
(https://i.imgur.com/sAYUj6u.png)
- I really liked this font, but the mod kits were just too busy, so offering it by itself seems like a good compromise.
- I think they are something custom molds just wouldn't be able to offer, and work pretty well with the simpler mods (like a title / body in a magazine).

(https://i.imgur.com/lQbmmV2.png)
- Red plus another cool font
- Note these are Alpha base color (white), not Modifier color.
- Yes, another Poetry kit, but I chose more aggressive / emo / metal words for a few.

(https://i.imgur.com/5RaWr1X.png)
- More traditional accents, for those who don't care to write poetry.

(https://i.imgur.com/wzvIWae.png)
- Mainly helping out compat on those weird layouts (atreus, etc.)
- Or just those folks who want blank KAM ortho layouts...?
- Also, you can use these to make your own novelties, if you feel so inclined!

(https://i.imgur.com/EDzmqlz.png)
- Oh, Jane 2 CE, you know you need that F13
- UK ISO, yep.  No St Croce version though.  Sorry.
- Colverak gets a stepped backspace, and homing keys in both alpha fonts.

Other Kits:
[Ergo Blanks]
(https://i.imgur.com/Bam6TR8.png)
- Confirmed gonna keep; waiting on some more renders.
- KAM means we are likely to actually make these!

Collaborations:
I have not lined anything up.

That's all I have for today!

More updates (like renders of keyboards with all the other kits) as things get closer to launch!
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: ILikeShorts on Wed, 06 May 2020, 18:47:24
I'm kinda bummed about the dark mods, actually. I really liked them all the same white. This reminds me way too much of DSA Granite.

Also, does KAM not have deep dish homing keys, just the bars?

Those are basically what's keeping me from being 100% in at this point.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 06 May 2020, 19:15:04


I'm kinda bummed about the dark mods, actually. I really liked them all the same white. This reminds me way too much of DSA Granite.

Also, does KAM not have deep dish homing keys, just the bars?

Those are basically what's keeping me from being 100% in at this point.

Welp, all white would be SA Ice Cap! ;) The colors should be significantly lighter than DSA Granite, FWIW.

Unfortunately, I'm settled on the current colors.

I'll double check about deep dish.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: timescam on Wed, 06 May 2020, 23:52:37
Can you add one more 2.25u shift in the tkl kit to support 660 layouts? thx

Sent from my ASUS_I001DC using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: eas on Thu, 07 May 2020, 01:05:53
I wish we could work together to put on end to 50$ Ortho/40s kits. If that's what I wanted out of life I'd join GMK group buys.

KAM Little Pilot Ortho kit was 15$


That said, I still love this.

Does this kit need to wait on Wraith production to finish? The factory seems to have delayed Wraith until almost end of 2020.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Thu, 07 May 2020, 14:36:58
Can you add one more 2.25u shift in the tkl kit to support 660 layouts? thx

Sent from my ASUS_I001DC using Tapatalk


It's in the TKL Compat kit.

I wish we could work together to put on end to 50$ Ortho/40s kits. If that's what I wanted out of life I'd join GMK group buys.

KAM Little Pilot Ortho kit was 15$


That said, I still love this.

Does this kit need to wait on Wraith production to finish? The factory seems to have delayed Wraith until almost end of 2020.

My goal for pricing is every covering any keyboard (Alphas + needed mods) for less than $100.  Ortho / 40's seemed like it just shared a LOT of 1u's, which is why I combined them.

Small update:
Also, I'm looking into a small tweak on the TKL sets.

Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: VicareyG on Fri, 08 May 2020, 12:41:32
Any need for an EU vendor?
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 08 May 2020, 16:03:19
Added more renders:

910:
Featuring Alphas, Poetry, and Ire Accent
(https://i.imgur.com/btGK41D.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/hd2b6wJ.png)

RAMA M60-A:
Featuring Alphas and Ire Poetry.
(https://i.imgur.com/vrQ9Awz.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/f0tCudl.png)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: vurtomatic on Sat, 09 May 2020, 20:18:57
Too bad can't write "ghost in the machine" with the novelties  ;D
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: Ulliam on Sun, 10 May 2020, 00:10:40
love what you've done with the St Croce Alphas, will have to get a milky board to use with my Ghost switches and this set!
Title: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: psxndc on Sun, 10 May 2020, 13:01:45
On the Colevrak kit (thanks for having one!!!) you don't need the homing E. If you want to support really alternative layouts, that should be an A.

https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1 (https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: dvorcol on Sun, 10 May 2020, 19:33:38
On the Colevrak kit (thanks for having one!!!) you don't need the homing E. If you want to support really alternative layouts, that should be an A.

https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1 (https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1)

Yes, please add homing A to support Carpalx QGMLWY.

But keep homing E to support BÉPO, an alternate French layout.

(https://i.imgur.com/UvSO5PF.png)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 10 May 2020, 19:36:36
On the Colevrak kit (thanks for having one!!!) you don't need the homing E. If you want to support really alternative layouts, that should be an A.

https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1 (https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1)

Yes, please add homing A to support Carpalx QGMLWY.

But keep homing E to support BÉPO, an alternate French layout.

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UvSO5PF.png)

Ima be real, half those words just look like random typing.

I'll look into adding A, for ATHUNE.

Hope people appreciate my stepped backspace. ;)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 10 May 2020, 19:44:03
love what you've done with the St Croce Alphas, will have to get a milky board to use with my Ghost switches and this set!
Thank you! I appreciate your support! They are definitely something I didn't have the heart to leave on the cutting room floor. KAM profile means we can likely get them made!
Too bad can't write "ghost in the machine" with the novelties  ;D
Maybe if sales are through the roof, those would be solid extras, or a good alt for the "enter" key.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: dvorcol on Sun, 10 May 2020, 19:55:09
On the Colevrak kit (thanks for having one!!!) you don't need the homing E. If you want to support really alternative layouts, that should be an A.

https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1 (https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1)

Yes, please add homing A to support Carpalx QGMLWY.

But keep homing E to support BÉPO, an alternate French layout.

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UvSO5PF.png)

Ima be real, half those words just look like random typing.

I'll look into adding A, for ATHUNE.

Hope people appreciate my stepped backspace. ;)

Here is the QGMLWY layout.
(https://i.imgur.com/1gaqEym.png)

And here is the BÉPO layout (courtesy of Wikipedia).
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/05/KB_French_Dvorak_b%C3%A9po_simplifi%C3%A9.svg/1920px-KB_French_Dvorak_b%C3%A9po_simplifi%C3%A9.svg.png)

Hoping this helps.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 10 May 2020, 19:59:43
On the Colevrak kit (thanks for having one!!!) you don't need the homing E. If you want to support really alternative layouts, that should be an A.

https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1 (https://imgur.com/gallery/4Sy4ph1)

Yes, please add homing A to support Carpalx QGMLWY.

But keep homing E to support BÉPO, an alternate French layout.

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UvSO5PF.png)

Ima be real, half those words just look like random typing.

I'll look into adding A, for ATHUNE.

Hope people appreciate my stepped backspace. ;)

Here is the QGMLWY layout.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/1gaqEym.png)


And here is the BÉPO layout (courtesy of Wikipedia).
Show Image
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/05/KB_French_Dvorak_b%C3%A9po_simplifi%C3%A9.svg/1920px-KB_French_Dvorak_b%C3%A9po_simplifi%C3%A9.svg.png)


Hoping this helps.
Thanks dvorcol. You are helpful, as always. :)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Mon, 11 May 2020, 17:20:31
Happy to announce new vendors:

- MyKeyboard.eu - Europe
- DailyClack - Australia
- QUAD-H | http://letsgetit.kr - South Korea
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 15 May 2020, 11:58:36
One more vendor:
- deskhero.ca - Canada
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: bananathock on Sat, 16 May 2020, 22:20:27
nice set fireworm!
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 20 May 2020, 12:39:33
Happy to announce pricing for NovelKeys.xyz:

TL;DR: Cover a TKL for $80 or less.

Alpha - Normal$35.00
Alpha - St Croce$35.00
TKL$45.00
TKL Compat$22.00
Alt Frow$15.00
Numpad$25.00
UK ISO$14.00
Split Space$15.00
40s$38.00
Poetry$22.00
Ire Poetry$22.00
Colverak Compat$14.00
Spacebars$18.00
Blanks(Alpha color)$15.00
Blanks(Mod color)$15.00
Ire Accent$14.00
Ergo Blanks $35.00

Additionally kits have slightly changed:
TKL gets the 7u spacebar, 1.75u shift, 1.5u backspace. And WKL mods (ctrl, alt, code). This makes TKL cover all common layouts (hhkb, winkey, winkeyless, 65).
UKISO gets the missing 1.25u shift.

Hopefully that means if you decide on a new layout, you will now be covered by TKL set instead of hunting for a spacebar + mods after gb is over.

(https://i.imgur.com/UX5O6CT.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/tVaIhr1.png)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: GKboki on Wed, 20 May 2020, 19:32:52
No price for St Croce Alphas or Ire Accent?
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 20 May 2020, 20:22:52
No price for St Croce Alphas or Ire Accent?

Ah, Ire Accent was mislabeled as Ire Nav: Fixed.

I'm triple checking on those prices, as I want to be sure Keyreative saw the kit, and it's not different from Alphas (since it's just the number of keys they should care about).  I'm under the impression it will be the same price as Alphas, but will update as soon as I have confirmation.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - Big Update! GB Date Announced!
Post by: GEIST on Thu, 21 May 2020, 05:44:21


I'm kinda bummed about the dark mods, actually. I really liked them all the same white. This reminds me way too much of DSA Granite.


Welp, all white would be SA Ice Cap! ;) The colors should be significantly lighter than DSA Granite, FWIW.

Unfortunately, I'm settled on the current colors.

But SA Ice got dark legends. The classic black on black sets are all using the same color for the mods and alphas. That's for me the reason to not buy this set.

Personally that's killing it for me, I can't see another set anymore with the standard mods <> alphas color separation, but that's just me.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: fireworm on Thu, 21 May 2020, 10:55:22
Few small updates:
Confirmed pricing on all sets.  Vendor pricing to come along shortly.

Confirmed no deep dish homing keys: Only homing bars.

Estimated shipping is Jan 2021.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: GKboki on Wed, 27 May 2020, 15:00:38
What's the difference between the poetry and Ire poetry kit listed in the price section?
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: fireworm on Wed, 27 May 2020, 15:05:17
What's the difference between the poetry and Ire poetry kit listed in the price section?
Ire Poetry is the red text.
(https://i.imgur.com/lQbmmV2.png)

Poetry is the gray text (less aggressive).
(https://i.imgur.com/zayXIc0.png)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: CrlaoSvloadr on Fri, 29 May 2020, 16:17:56
Very nice update, and absolutely wonderful pricing!
Can't wait for this :)
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: tectonicplate on Sun, 31 May 2020, 17:23:04
I'm a bit confused with the Split Space kit. It looks like there are (2) 1.75u and (2) 2.25 however if you're going to double up on anything here it should be (2) 2u instead. This is becoming more standardized with things like the Planck and Preonic and many other ortholinear boards nowadays. Can we get a second 2u space? Double 1.75u or 2.25u builds are relatively rare.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - May 6 - GB June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: fireworm on Sun, 31 May 2020, 17:42:01
I'm a bit confused with the Split Space kit. It looks like there are (2) 1.75u and (2) 2.25 however if you're going to double up on anything here it should be (2) 2u instead. This is becoming more standardized with things like the Planck and Preonic and many other ortholinear boards nowadays. Can we get a second 2u space? Double 1.75u or 2.25u builds are relatively rare.
Buying the split space and ortho will net you three 2u spacebars. Ortho has two 2u spacebars by itself (one alpha colored, one mod colored) .

Hope that works; kits are locked.
Title: Re: [IC] KAM Ghost - GB Open June 5th | TKL Covered for $80!
Post by: fireworm on Fri, 05 June 2020, 10:30:00
GroupBuy is LIVE: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=106756