[IC] PLA75 - GB Begins Friday Sept 27

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Hi all, I'm back with a new design I've been cooking up - the PLA75







So, whats unique about this one amidst the million running GBs?

1. Gasket mount - I've implemented a 12 gasket mounting system using standard gasket stock (easily replaceable) for plate isolation and a unique sound profile.

2. 3D printed in PLA. This is some of the best sounding material (just a hair denser than polycarbonate, but the fact that it doesn't have to be solid allows for hollow segments that sound really great. The same techniques were used on the ADK64).

2.5 - This also means that production time for these is quite fast. I'm shooting for < 2 months from GB start to fulfillment, which was achieved with the ADK64.

3. Uses the KBD75 PCB, so you get fancy lights, QMK, USB-C, and a really good price.

4. Plates made from FR4

5. Seamless design - implementing the gaskets forced me to think differently about mounting, so the bottom piece is encased by the top piece, offering a solid and seamless design.

6. Variety in case tops - I'm currently designing more case tops to allow for further customization. Simple geometric (as pictured), as well as chamfered, filleted and a vent design will be availiable come GB.

Oh, and this one is going to be very affordable - $185/kit



My rendering software is a little lackluster, but I've got some rudimentary renders and screenshots for you to take a look at the design - this is still being worked on, so if this is something that piques your interest, please offer up some suggestions for what you'd like to see. I'm going to be getting a prototype made in the coming weeks, and you can expect a GB after that.

I've got a form here to be notified when the GB starts https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VkgtQaPXIPRx9J6Xse1AHdxa1se8oO-2yNsyoeQKka0

[gnhuy91]

Interested! I would like to see WKL blockers on the top case (similar to singa) and staggered F row

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Interested! I would like to see WKL blockers on the top case (similar to singa) and staggered F row

I'm a WK man myself so I totally overlooked this. This should be a breeze to add and you can consider it an option.

[walie]

Nice! Will you be working with Keyboardbelle again for this?

[Xitir]

I also would love to see a staggered F row as well! Not sure if that's possible since it uses the KBD75 PCB, but I think it improves the aesthetics of 75% boards a ton.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Nice! Will you be working with Keyboardbelle again for this?

You bet! And we can expect the print quality on this one to be much nicer, since it doesn't have the curves like the ADK64 - straight lines are much easier to get a smooth print with.

[8six753o9]

Would you be able to add slits on the bottom sides the case so it can allow light to shine through solid color cases?  Something like what KeyHive is selling for the UT47.2 case.


Sample 1
Sample 2

[pixelpusher]

Looking forward to a prototype.  Interesting

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Would you be able to add slits on the bottom sides the case so it can allow light to shine through solid color cases?  Something like what KeyHive is selling for the UT47.2 case.


Sample 1
Sample 2

Yeah, that's something I can implement if there is big demand for a solid color. I was thinking we could do a carbon fiber filament 

[TuCZnak]

200$ just for the case, or is PCB included? Also your plate is missing ISO support...

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

200$ just for the case, or is PCB included? Also your plate is missing ISO support...

Case + PCB + Plate kit for around 200 (price is not confirmed, but its a good estimate)

That's just a placeholder plate I created for getting the case made - I'll generate ANSI, ISO and the weird KBD75 numpad layout plates if there is interest, as well as one off plates for people that want to order separately.

[hineybush]

ne corner fillets/roundness avail

[corydora]

Liking the look of this! I'd love to see the rounded version in a retro solid colour, like a pale teal, refrigerator style.

[Puddsy]

ne corner fillets/roundness avail

ne reasonable bezel size avail

[_ODIN_]

Interested

Gesendet von meinem H8416 mit Tapatalk

[equalunique]

Need me a 75% layout pcb like this but with split spacebar support

Sent from my LG-H918 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

ne corner fillets/roundness avail

ne reasonable bezel size avail

the bezel just got 10 inches thicker.

ne corner fillets/roundness avail

No, fillets were banned in 2015 up here. Best I can do is like 8 chamfers on the corners.

[garbo]

ne corner fillets/roundness avail

Ah, but this is PLA so it really has sand-your-own-radius edges. Very innovative.

Seriously, though, the top might be a little underdesigned externally, but the idea of easily produced swappable alternatives is neat and the board in general has the potential to be cool.

I do think there could be more thought put into the finishes on these kinds of cases to make them more desirable as options in the 'mid-range custom keyboard' kind of space this seems to be occupying.
Don't know much about 3d prints but it seems like people are doing some interesting stuff with polishing and coating/painting products in a way that might not be prohibitively expensive.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

ne corner fillets/roundness avail

Ah, but this is PLA so it really has sand-your-own-radius edges. Very innovative.

Seriously, though, the top might be a little underdesigned externally, but the idea of easily produced swappable alternatives is neat and the board in general has the potential to be cool.

I do think there could be more thought put into the finishes on these kinds of cases to make them more desirable as options in the 'mid-range custom keyboard' kind of space this seems to be occupying.
Don't know much about 3d prints but it seems like people are doing some interesting stuff with polishing and coating/painting products in a way that might not be prohibitively expensive.

Yeah, the top is still being designed, so I just have that gaudy oversized one as a placeholder.

I wouldn't worry about finishing on this one. It's not a curve like the ADK, so there shouldn't be any stepping of the printer. I always recommend XTC-3D if people want shiny parts, its not too expensive.

[tex_live_utility]

Gasket mount would hopefully counteract what I see as the biggest downside of PLA, which is that the cases are rigid and do not absorb vibration well. I'll be watching how this unfolds.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

While you were partying on a Friday, I studied the gasket

[Kokaloo]

While you were parting on a Friday, I studied the gasket

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gasket-fu

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Just thought I'd give a quick update - I'm getting some models of the gasket well off to Belle so we can make sure everything fits before printing a prototype. Should have those done this weekend when I get some time.

We've sourced 1.6mm POM, so I'll be testing that with the prototype.

Steel for the proto, POM for production.

I'm also getting a Prusa i3 3D printer, so I should be able to speed along development of this and future endeavors from home - then doing production with Belle, rather than relying on her for testing and protos as well - costs much time and intl shipping fees

Also, since I am using a stock gasket, I might offer a few different materials in the kit (soft, medium and hard durometer), so that people have ever more customizabilitation.

So yeah, chugging along slowly, I'll hopefully have some cool stuff to show you guys soon. I don't just want to yeet some gaskets in there and call it good, I'm making sure the numbers work out as well.

- Andy

[barrel]

Consider me heccin interested, my favourite layout, easily

[jani80k]

Interested, if ISO support.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Interested, if ISO support.

Most likely. Depending on interest and MOQ for some plate materials I may not be able to provide ISO for all materials, but I certainly can for the stuff were cutting in house like POM.

Also, Belle is experimenting with wood plates. Have a look: https://www.instagram.com/keyboardbelle_prints/?hl=en

(About 12 posts down)

[jedidood]

Definitely interested.

[DetectiveNio]

I supposed the current kbd75 plates don't work with this board?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

No, this has its own custom plate since its mounted with gaskets.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Sorry for the slow updates. I've got my printer running and I'm officially kicking this into high gear. I got some samples with plate segments, and printed off a single section of the gasket housing to test the fit - I'm looking for something that leaves the top part of the case slightly above where it needs to be, and the compression from the screws will bring it back down.

Here it is uncompressed:


A decent but not too heavy force is needed to squish everything flat - making the plate float between the gaskets


And one more:


I've got a few adjustments to make, and then when I'm happy I'll move onto a full prototype.

[TuCZnak]

Moving along nicely Do you have an idea how much space will be left under the PCB? Is there enough space to fit some foam, or is it not neccessary because the acustics will be good even without it?

(also +1 for ISO support for at least some plates)

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Moving along nicely Do you have an idea how much space will be left under the PCB? Is there enough space to fit some foam, or is it not neccessary because the acustics will be good even without it?

(also +1 for ISO support for at least some plates)

Foam shouldn't be necessary, since I'm sorta nuts about good sounding keyboards, so sound is the main design point - so if that means that foam is needed I will ensure there is space for it, and probably include or build around a common thickness so everyone can get it.

Plates shouldn't be an issue. Once I get the case in full working order I'll mull over some plate layouts. It's basically going to be the battle of "how universal can we get these plates without them being covered in holes." And I've already had a bunch of requests for ISO, so consider it included.

[_ODIN_]

Nice to see this project developing, I am in.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

I've been doing some fit testing, and found a perfect tolerance for a dovetail. This means I'll be printing a prototype this weekend (my test printer is smaller than the production ones, so I've gotta split it for now). Found a place in my town that cuts plates, so I don't have to get them shipped in from overseas. 75% PCB, gasket and switches in hand.

I'm hoping to have an actual prototype for people to look at next week, and I ask for some input about the top bezel, as that is the last part that needs refinement. I've been doing a lot of tinkering under the hood, but don't want to clog up the page unless I've got something substantial to report.

So that's where I'm at! Happy Friday and happy Independence/Canada days.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Here's half a prototype. I'm pleased that everything fits and lines up, and have found some things I want to change:

• Make the bezel thinner. I will try and keep this as a medium thickness case - not an elephant, and not a low profile one either
• Make the bezel tighter with the keycaps. Now that I have something to measure, this will be an easy adjustment

Let me know if you have any other suggestions/criticisms/what you like.

[DetectiveNio]

Here's half a prototype. I'm pleased that everything fits and lines up, and have found some things I want to change:

• Make the bezel thinner. I will try and keep this as a medium thickness case - not an elephant, and not a low profile one either
• Make the bezel tighter with the keycaps. Now that I have something to measure, this will be an easy adjustment

Let me know if you have any other suggestions/criticisms/what you like.

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PLA37.5 can't wait for the finished product

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[EMC Labs]

Hmm, clean design.

[vicissitude]

The space bar is so interesting.
Hope to hear more viewpoints about it.

[TuCZnak]

One more bezel suggestion: make it more raised, so it actually covers the bottoms of the keycaps properly (mainly visible on the bottom row)

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

It must just be the angles, and the fact that it isn't tight against the sides of the keycaps. It surely covers all the bottoms as is, but I'll take some more measurements and make sure it really does.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Alright, I return. It's been a few long nights of getting the design perfect after a few iterations, but I've got something I'm really happy with.

My design wishlist is complete:

• Gaskets squish perfectly
• Bezel size has been reduced
• Case height has been lowered
• Case is tight to keycap edges

I'm working on some options for the top bezel, so if you'd rather have some tasteful chamfers or radii on it, l can make that happen.

Now, onto pictures! I'll embed a few here, the rest are in this https://imgur.com/a/wObRsAL







So yeah, I've got the other half printing now. Working on getting pricing and printing established, and I hope to have a GB launched by the end of July!

[hineybush]

new proto is a much better shape! any comparison pics between this and the first proto?

[badboy731]

wow. looks good so far! cant wait

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Here is the comparison! Much lower, thinner, and a lot of changes under the hood to make everything fit together nicely
First image is the top case, and the second is the bottom chassis

[TuCZnak]

That bezel is still pretty huge tbqh 

[audiosl4ve]

Love it! I really like DIY stuff at home makes to GB thing. Looking forward fore moar stuff 

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Last piece of the proto will be done this afternoon, I hope to build it tonight so I can get some sound tests made. Once that's all set and done, I'm going to ask Keyboardbelle for a fullsize production sample (as my home printer can only do half cases), and then off to groupbuy we go!

That bezel is still pretty huge tbqh 

It is large because it has to cover those mounting tabs on the plate to get everything squished together. I'm going to post some renders of the extra top cases I've been working on when I get home tonight - a nice chamfer and/or some vents can really slim that bezel down - stay posted.

[ocm]

I dig the huge bezels. This thing is pretty damn rad.

[Kokaloo]

Last piece of the proto will be done this afternoon, I hope to build it tonight so I can get some sound tests made. Once that's all set and done, I'm going to ask Keyboardbelle for a fullsize production sample (as my home printer can only do half cases), and then off to groupbuy we go!

That bezel is still pretty huge tbqh 

It is large because it has to cover those mounting tabs on the plate to get everything squished together. I'm going to post some renders of the extra top cases I've been working on when I get home tonight - a nice chamfer and/or some vents can really slim that bezel down - stay posted.

Chamfer would be 

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

So, mind the seam and the glue marks, as I only have a small prusa for making protos. Production sample is in the works, and that will be solid pieces for the top and bottom.

Glamour shot on a rainy day


Top down. Don't look too closely at the legends on the caps


One more for good measure.


I've also been fooling around in CAD at the request of some users for top case options. I can do vents, chamfers, rounds - you name it (and it doesn't affect the structural integrity of the top case too much), I can do it.

Chamfers and vents


Fillets everywhere


So yeah! Get your info in that IC form if you haven't. I spoke with a local shop here and they can do mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium plates - I'm also getting hiney to do me up some FR4 ones as well. I will release the plate files after the GB is closed, so that anyone who wants a more exotic material is free to get it cut (I highly recommend laserboost!).

[DetectiveNio]

So, mind the seam and the glue marks, as I only have a small prusa for making protos. Production sample is in the works, and that will be solid pieces for the top and bottom.

Glamour shot on a rainy day

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Top down. Don't look too closely at the legends on the caps

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One more for good measure.

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I've also been fooling around in CAD at the request of some users for top case options. I can do vents, chamfers, rounds - you name it (and it doesn't affect the structural integrity of the top case too much), I can do it.

Chamfers and vents

Show Image

Fillets everywhere

Show Image

So yeah! Get your info in that IC form if you haven't. I spoke with a local shop here and they can do mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium plates - I'm also getting hiney to do me up some FR4 ones as well. I will release the plate files after the GB is closed, so that anyone who wants a more exotic material is free to get it cut (I highly recommend laserboost!).

How "custom" will the top be when the GB is live? Will there just be a few choices? Or per request?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

So, mind the seam and the glue marks, as I only have a small prusa for making protos. Production sample is in the works, and that will be solid pieces for the top and bottom.

Glamour shot on a rainy day

Show Image

Top down. Don't look too closely at the legends on the caps

Show Image

One more for good measure.

Show Image

I've also been fooling around in CAD at the request of some users for top case options. I can do vents, chamfers, rounds - you name it (and it doesn't affect the structural integrity of the top case too much), I can do it.

Chamfers and vents

Show Image

Fillets everywhere

Show Image

So yeah! Get your info in that IC form if you haven't. I spoke with a local shop here and they can do mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium plates - I'm also getting hiney to do me up some FR4 ones as well. I will release the plate files after the GB is closed, so that anyone who wants a more exotic material is free to get it cut (I highly recommend laserboost!).

How "custom" will the top be when the GB is live? Will there just be a few choices? Or per request?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

I'll have a couple preset ones on the GB form, and then an option to pick if you want something custom. I'll also be selling them separately, so if you want to try a few that will be a relatively inexpensive option too.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Here's an example of some of the finishing (again, mind the gaps, small printer). This one has a few chamfers and looks really clean - the tops can be swapped easily, so having a couple on hand would make the board work with any keyset.





I built this with BOX White switches I had laying around, and will do a sound test when I can borrow a proper mic. A nice solid plate on gaskets sounds really good with clickies

[ecbob]

Do you think you can make it slightly thinner? Seems a bit bulky with those thicc edges. FOllowing.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Spent the evening doing another revision. Managed to trim some thickness off, but I'm at my limit for the hardware store nuts I'm using. I'm printing it right now, so I'll have a comparison tomorrow.

I ordered some thin nuts from AliExpress, so I should be able to bring it down a bit more, since the footprint of those is about half the size of my current nuts. I'll work on a design and compare it in CAD this evening.

[FatOldGuy]

I'm interested. I have an extra KBD75v2 soldered up in need of a case to drop it in, this could do the trick!

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

I'm interested. I have an extra KBD75v2 soldered up in need of a case to drop it in, this could do the trick!

This needs its own plate

[ecbob]

Damn, realized the plate doesn't allow for split backspace and 2 1.5's to the right of the spacebar. Any chance you can make the plate more universal? Thanks!

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Yeah, this is my prototype plate, so don't fret. I'll have a bunch of options on the order form, so if a KBD75 PCB can do the layout, I can cut the plate for it.

I've also decided to do another revision of the plate, since I've got some time on the administrative side - this means I'll be thinning the design down a bit, as I know the thick bezels didn't jive well with some. Thick bezels will still be available if you want them.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

As promised, I've been working on reducing the size of the bezels. Here is 4 mm taken off from the bezels (the old square ones without any chamfers were 19 mm, the new ones are 15 mm) - I may be able to get a total of 6 mm off, but I don't want this to transition into a "thin" type case, just a happy medium.

Let me know what you think - the new one is in green.

Top down view of side by side


Side view of side by side


Smaller one sunk into other one, to get an idea of the footprint reduction

[hineybush]

much nicer bezels and proportions 

[efftwo]

Wow, that is a lot better.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Kevadu]

Any chance for an audio test?  Curious how it sounds.

[Kokaloo]

This is looking better and better each day man, good stuff.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Thanks everyone. Glad I'm moving in the right direction. I'm going to get a plate made for this tomorrow, and I'll get a full assembly done for a sound test. I'll have to desolder the current version, since these changes require a new plate, but that means we can get a new set of switches in there. I've got BOX whites in this one, so I'll record a test before I take it apart.

I'll probably throw some linears in this one, unless someone really wants to hear it with holy pandas.

[DetectiveNio]

Thanks everyone. Glad I'm moving in the right direction. I'm going to get a plate made for this tomorrow, and I'll get a full assembly done for a sound test. I'll have to desolder the current version, since these changes require a new plate, but that means we can get a new set of switches in there. I've got BOX whites in this one, so I'll record a test before I take it apart.

I'll probably throw some linears in this one, unless someone really wants to hear it with holy pandas.

I'm interested in how HP sound in gasket mounts boards


Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[efftwo]

Thanks everyone. Glad I'm moving in the right direction. I'm going to get a plate made for this tomorrow, and I'll get a full assembly done for a sound test. I'll have to desolder the current version, since these changes require a new plate, but that means we can get a new set of switches in there. I've got BOX whites in this one, so I'll record a test before I take it apart.

I'll probably throw some linears in this one, unless someone really wants to hear it with holy pandas.

I'd like to hear it with some linears

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Thanks everyone. Glad I'm moving in the right direction. I'm going to get a plate made for this tomorrow, and I'll get a full assembly done for a sound test. I'll have to desolder the current version, since these changes require a new plate, but that means we can get a new set of switches in there. I've got BOX whites in this one, so I'll record a test before I take it apart.

I'll probably throw some linears in this one, unless someone really wants to hear it with holy pandas.

I'm interested in how HP sound in gasket mounts boards


Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

Thanks everyone. Glad I'm moving in the right direction. I'm going to get a plate made for this tomorrow, and I'll get a full assembly done for a sound test. I'll have to desolder the current version, since these changes require a new plate, but that means we can get a new set of switches in there. I've got BOX whites in this one, so I'll record a test before I take it apart.

I'll probably throw some linears in this one, unless someone really wants to hear it with holy pandas.

I'd like to hear it with some linears

Okay, now rock paper scissors you two

[TuCZnak]

As promised, I've been working on reducing the size of the bezels. Here is 4 mm taken off from the bezels (the old square ones without any chamfers were 19 mm, the new ones are 15 mm) - I may be able to get a total of 6 mm off, but I don't want this to transition into a "thin" type case, just a happy medium.

Let me know what you think - the new one is in green.

Top down view of side by side

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Side view of side by side

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Smaller one sunk into other one, to get an idea of the footprint reduction

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Definitely a move in the right direction, I dig it. These are about the right proportions a nice bezel should have :thumb:

[ecbob]

Looks good on the bezel, I can compromise on the medium thickness tbh. My tofu seems a little thin anyways

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

So I heard y'all like shiny renders?

I've got the design locked in - shrunk the bezels by 25% (the render is even smaller than the above 3 comparison images, did more work since that post).

Getting another plate done, and will begin printing my half-cases tonight. I'll bug keyboardbelle to get a fullsize prototype of this as soon as I get my plate and ensure everything fits together, then we can call this design finalized.

I'm so much happier with this thinned out version, and I'm sure everyone else will be to

- Andy

[ecbob]

Yup, the diagonal cuts on the edges seem the same size as the birds eye view bezel. Perfect.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Alright, here is the timeline before I am able to start the GB. I'm aiming for the last week of August or first week of September.



Most of the time is just waiting for shipping and having to do things sequentially, but by doing a little redesign I feel like I've made the case much better, so bear with me - and as the old saying goes:

"""A rushed case is forever bad" - Wayne Gretzky"" - Micheal Scott" - Shigeru Miyamoto"

[ecbob]

This comes with no stabs correct? In that case I have to buy stabs from another place

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

This comes with no stabs correct? In that case I have to buy stabs from another place

I'll probably be able to source a bunch of screw in stabs.

Picking up the redesigned plate from the machine shop today. Was up very late yesterday desoldering the old proto, so if life allowd, I'll have this one built tonight. I figured I'd hold off on getting proper production samples until I know everything fits, so I'll have those off to keyboardbelle this evening after I do a few checks.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Got the updated plate, and the design is done printing. I'm so happy with the changes, and everything fits together awesome. Submitted for full size samples
Here is a family photo of the 3 revisions. Those bezels went on a diet

[YellowHalo]

No support for stepped capslock?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

No support for stepped capslock?

Yes support for stepped capslock. I just have a fixed layout for my prototype plates. I suspect this GB will be small enough that I can do custom plates, so literally anything the KBD75 can support is yours.

[rondg]

Do we have an estimated price?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

225 plus minus 25. Getting prints quoted this weekend

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Sample production prints finish tonight. Steel, alu and fr4 plates in hand come Monday. Getting a quote on brass plates by end of today. Special nuts and screws in hand. Moving along nicely behind the scenes, just no pretty pictures to show.

[jimboytacos]

No support for stepped capslock?

I'm bummed. I liked the very sharp corners like what a TOFU... Basically the dark one in your prototype. Except I wished it we're smaller with a tiny bit of chamfered edge.

Not a fan of the white one at all. The corners are too busy making me feel like this is cheaper and gamer-ish.

Will the sharp corners be coming back in a thinner bezel?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

No support for stepped capslock?

I'm bummed. I liked the very sharp corners like what a TOFU... Basically the dark one in your prototype. Except I wished it we're smaller with a tiny bit of chamfered edge.

Not a fan of the white one at all. The corners are too busy making me feel like this is cheaper and gamer-ish.

Will the sharp corners be coming back in a thinner bezel?

Yep, I've got a reduced bezel size in the tofu-esque style (no chamfers) in my order for production samples. I'll have a bunch of options for ordering tops (your idea of a minimally chemfered tofu style will be there), so there should be something for everyone.

[EMC Labs]

Please have an option for WKL blockers!

[diddykang]

This is looking good! cant wait to join this

[hammerbrotha]

I honestly don't know much about PLA but this is my favorite layout and size for keyboards right now. Genuine question, will the final product be 'smooth' or will it show the striations/lines that are visible in the prototype?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Depends in the case top. The square style will be de-facto the smoothest, as all layers are directly overtop of one another. I'll get some really close up shots when my production samples arrive.

But these should be leagues ahead of the ADK64 in terms of smoothness.

[Vireca]

It looks really good but case with 3D printer looks cheap too

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Production samples are trickling in. Should have the Translucent cases next week, so we can see those as well.

FR4 plates fit good and sound magnificent, I'll get a sound test uploaded this weekend, as I'll have access to a nice condenser mic.

Pics of the with production samples looking clean





Expect the GB to begin Aug 27th when I return from vacation. Should run for 2 weeks or 50 units. Pricing still TBD, but it looks like I'll meet my ~$225 estimate for a full kit.

[DetectiveNio]

Production samples are trickling in. Should have the Translucent cases next week, so we can see those as well.

FR4 plates fit good and sound magnificent, I'll get a sound test uploaded this weekend, as I'll have access to a nice condenser mic.

Pics of the with production samples looking clean

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Expect the GB to begin Aug 27th when I return from vacation. Should run for 2 weeks or 50 units. Pricing still TBD, but it looks like I'll meet my ~$225 estimate for a full kit.

I was gonna drop that much on the Polaris but I need my F-row and arrows. Plate and case foam I can carve myself

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Glad to have you on board. I've got a hunk of foam I'll be throwing in mine, so I'll guinea pig that for you. Shouldn't be needed though, as the gaskets completely isolate the plate.

[TuCZnak]

Expect the GB to begin Aug 27th when I return from vacation. Should run for 2 weeks or 50 units. Pricing still TBD, but it looks like I'll meet my ~$225 estimate for a full kit.

I'm not sure if you posted it somewhere in the thread, but it's not in the OP. What stuff is in the full kit?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

1 x Case bottom
1 x Case top
Set of gaskets
1 x plate
1 x KBD75 PCB

So it'll be bring your own stabs, switches and caps. I can really bump the price down if I limit the plate options to just FR4, which feels and sounds the best, bar none. I'll still release the plate files as promised, but I get no volume discount on metal plates. Just a thought.

[Kokaloo]

1 x Case bottom
1 x Case top
Set of gaskets
1 x plate
1 x KBD75 PCB

So it'll be bring your own stabs, switches and caps. I can really bump the price down if I limit the plate options to just FR4, which feels and sounds the best, bar none. I'll still release the plate files as promised, but I get no volume discount on metal plates. Just a thought.

I would be more than happy with FR4 plates!

[_ODIN_]

1 x Case bottom
1 x Case top
Set of gaskets
1 x plate
1 x KBD75 PCB

So it'll be bring your own stabs, switches and caps. I can really bump the price down if I limit the plate options to just FR4, which feels and sounds the best, bar none. I'll still release the plate files as promised, but I get no volume discount on metal plates. Just a thought.

Will it be possible to exclude the PCB from the order (I already bought a PCB with my latest KBDfans order thinking I would have to source it myself)?

[DetectiveNio]

1 x Case bottom
1 x Case top
Set of gaskets
1 x plate
1 x KBD75 PCB

So it'll be bring your own stabs, switches and caps. I can really bump the price down if I limit the plate options to just FR4, which feels and sounds the best, bar none. I'll still release the plate files as promised, but I get no volume discount on metal plates. Just a thought.

Will you consider the option to omit the PCB? I already got a kbd75 PCB laying around

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Yeah, it should be fine.

[EMC Labs]

Do we have a GB projection date yet? Hyped for this one.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Do we have a GB projection date yet? Hyped for this one.

Belle is ready to print Sept 1, so I'll open the GB on August 27th or 28th when I get back from vacation. Fulfillment by Oct 15th at the latest.

[bobgr8]

Limit of GB?

[EMC Labs]

Do we have a GB projection date yet? Hyped for this one.

Belle is ready to print Sept 1, so I'll open the GB on August 27th or 28th when I get back from vacation. Fulfillment by Oct 15th at the latest.

Thanks for letting me know.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Limit of GB?

Soft cap of 50.

[ecbob]

What Pantone color is that white one?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

It's solutech true white. Not sure if it's got a Pantone code, but Belle likes to use Paramount PLA, which has color codes.

[Pitrek]

Hi there,

could you please tell me what are the dimensions of the case?

Thanks! 

[DetectiveNio]

How thick will the bottom be? I got a few cases from Belle but they're rather thin.

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[diddykang]

any update on these?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Hi there,

could you please tell me what are the dimensions of the case?

Thanks! 

How thick will the bottom be? I got a few cases from Belle but they're rather thin.

Show Image

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

I'll measure in a few days when I'm back from vacation. And as for the status, Belle is slow on the prototypes, but we have a ship date of Sept 5. Apologies for the delay this is causing, but I want to check them and do a full build before I open the GB.

[NeroGrave]

Hi, I made an account on this site just to show my interest in this. 

Also would like to personally see a slightly slimmer bezel with rounded edges for this design.

[lush_bunny]

Limit of GB?

Soft cap of 50.

Hope you're enjoying your vacation! I've been monitoring a lot of nice 75% board ICs (I really like 75%) and it seems like you'll be the first one to execute a GB. With the competitive price, I really hope This cap is increased, I wanna join this GB as well  Good luck!

[lush_bunny]

Will this be available in white?

[DetectiveNio]

Will this be available in white?

It's printed so any color you want I think

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[t0rk]

GB live today?

[Pitrek]

Hi there,

could you please tell me what are the dimensions of the case?

Thanks! 

How thick will the bottom be? I got a few cases from Belle but they're rather thin.

Show Image

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

I'll measure in a few days when I'm back from vacation. And as for the status, Belle is slow on the prototypes, but we have a ship date of Sept 5. Apologies for the delay this is causing, but I want to check them and do a full build before I open the GB.

Thank you!

[t0rk]

Final decision ever made on the limited plate options? I'd be fine with just the one if it keeps cost down.

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Yep, FR4 only. But I will be open sourcing the plate for those that want their own as another option.

[Oni74]

@OP update on GB launch date?

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Production samples will be here next week, so once I give those a good look over I'll open it. Let's say the weekend of Sept 7th.

[t0rk]

Production samples will be here next week, so once I give those a good look over I'll open it. Let's say the weekend of Sept 7th.

Same weekend as the hbcp.

My wife will be delighted..

[DetectiveNio]

Interested in build and sound test videos

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[Oni74]

Interested in build and sound test videos

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

Seconded. Please post vids with GB launch.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Yep, will have a build ready for the arrival of the protos. Probably T1s

[Oni74]

Yep, will have a build ready for the arrival of the protos. Probably T1s

Excellent! I've 90 lubed, spring swapped  T1s waiting for a worthy 75% board!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[TuCZnak]

Please lube the T1s, their sound profile is really annoying stock Still hyped for this board!

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Please lube the T1s, their sound profile is really annoying stock Still hyped for this board!

If classes don't pile on the fun this week, and lube arrives on time I will. No promises though

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Full proto from Belle is here, 3203 and T1s are here! I hope to have everything built for Wednesday to test all the fits.

[diddykang]

Full proto from Belle is here, 3203 and T1s are here! I hope to have everything built for Wednesday to test all the fits.

Cant wait to see it 

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Man oh man it's better than I could of dreamed. FR4 plate + gaskets and nice switches make for the best sounding board. Almost like light rain... I'm in love.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqLgFY48ezE&feature=youtu.be

Just waiting for belle to give the go ahead and I'm ready to roll. Hope everyone is as excited as I am 

[DetectiveNio]

Hnngg take my moneyyy

Planning on releasing how it's gonna go down soon? is the PCB going to be optional?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Hnngg take my moneyyy

Planning on releasing how it's gonna go down soon? is the PCB going to be optional?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

I'll email everyone on the google form the second that I open the GB, and then it'll be FCFS for the 50 slots. I'm just waiting to hear when belle can begin production.

PCB will be optional, multiple tops of different colors will be available, and I encourage everyone to get a few so you've got a few color options for different keysets.

Plate is a FR4 universal one size fits all, and I've got a few prototype ones if anyone wants a fixed layout. I'll release the plate layout after the invoices are paid.

So yeah, start getting your switches prepped people! I highly recommend thin lubed tactiles and thick lubed linears for this build.

[t0rk]

Looks and sounds awesome.

Can't wait for the GB.

[diddykang]

Looks good 

[Oni74]

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Man oh man it's better than I could of dreamed. FR4 plate + gaskets and nice switches make for the best sounding board. Almost like light rain... I'm in love.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqLgFY48ezE&feature=youtu.be

Just waiting for belle to give the go ahead and I'm ready to roll. Hope everyone is as excited as I am  :cool:

Looks amazing! I will definitely be on the lookout for the GB email.

I also see a numpad in your pictures. Any plans to do a PLA20 numpad using KBDFans PCB? (https://kbdfans.com/collections/20/products/kbdfans-kbdpad-pcb-v2)

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Very possible. Gonna run the ADK18 numpad first and see how that one goes though, so don't hold you breath on it.

[Oni74]

Very possible. Gonna run the ADK18 numpad first and see how that one goes though, so don't hold you breath on it.

oooo do tell about ADK18!

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Very possible. Gonna run the ADK18 numpad first and see how that one goes though, so don't hold you breath on it.

oooo do tell about ADK18!

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=101963.0

Shameless self plug.

[NeroGrave]

Oh dang, hopefully GB starts at end of month, waiting on the payday coz im broke

[Oni74]

Very possible. Gonna run the ADK18 numpad first and see how that one goes though, so don't hold you breath on it.

oooo do tell about ADK18!

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=101963.0

Shameless self plug.

Not shameless if you're fulfilling a request!

Looks good! Interested in the numpad too!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

GB starts Friday. $185 + ship per kit. 50 Spots, 1-1.5 months for fulfillment. Kit includes case + plate + PCB.

Had to delay this a bit to work the price down with suppliers, but I think that is a good price considering you're getting one of the best sounding keyboards I've ever used (and I've got some big name TKLs with lubed & stickered vint blacks in a brass plate to compare to) for under $200.

People on the email list will be getting a brief head start, so make sure you're on there: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VkgtQaPXIPRx9J6Xse1AHdxa1se8oO-2yNsyoeQKka0/

Best of luck to everyone. I'll be offering a few different top styles for the GB in many colors, so grab a few if you so desire.

Thanks everyone, and I'll see y'all on Friday.

[DetectiveNio]

GB starts Friday. $185 + ship per kit. 50 Spots, 1-1.5 months for fulfillment. Kit includes case + plate + PCB.

Had to delay this a bit to work the price down with suppliers, but I think that is a good price considering you're getting one of the best sounding keyboards I've ever used (and I've got some big name TKLs with lubed & stickered vint blacks in a brass plate to compare to) for under $200.

People on the email list will be getting a brief head start, so make sure you're on there: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VkgtQaPXIPRx9J6Xse1AHdxa1se8oO-2yNsyoeQKka0/

Best of luck to everyone. I'll be offering a few different top styles for the GB in many colors, so grab a few if you so desire.

Thanks everyone, and I'll see y'all on Friday.

Awyisss. No way of dropping PCB?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

GB starts Friday. $185 + ship per kit. 50 Spots, 1-1.5 months for fulfillment. Kit includes case + plate + PCB.

Had to delay this a bit to work the price down with suppliers, but I think that is a good price considering you're getting one of the best sounding keyboards I've ever used (and I've got some big name TKLs with lubed & stickered vint blacks in a brass plate to compare to) for under $200.

People on the email list will be getting a brief head start, so make sure you're on there: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VkgtQaPXIPRx9J6Xse1AHdxa1se8oO-2yNsyoeQKka0/

Best of luck to everyone. I'll be offering a few different top styles for the GB in many colors, so grab a few if you so desire.

Thanks everyone, and I'll see y'all on Friday.

Awyisss. No way of dropping PCB?

They're so cheap on a volume discount, and I think I've got enough interest to give priority to people who want the PCB. I don't want to have to cost average based on a guess of how many want the PCB.

Tl;dr No, unfortunately. Just use it for another 75% project

[ACF101015]

Any chance this'll see a rerun in the near future?

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Any chance this'll see a rerun in the near future?

I'll talk to keyboardbelle about keeping stock of it - it wouldn't have this GB pricing but it'll still be very reasonable. No promises though.

[DetectiveNio]

Do you have pics of the offered tops? Not sure if it's gonna run out fast, but it'd be better to know what I'd like to buy and not have to make the choices on the fly. And what time will it be on Friday?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[Oni74]

GB starts Friday. $185 + ship per kit. 50 Spots, 1-1.5 months for fulfillment. Kit includes case + plate + PCB.

Had to delay this a bit to work the price down with suppliers, but I think that is a good price considering you're getting one of the best sounding keyboards I've ever used (and I've got some big name TKLs with lubed & stickered vint blacks in a brass plate to compare to) for under $200.

People on the email list will be getting a brief head start, so make sure you're on there: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VkgtQaPXIPRx9J6Xse1AHdxa1se8oO-2yNsyoeQKka0/

Best of luck to everyone. I'll be offering a few different top styles for the GB in many colors, so grab a few if you so desire.

Thanks everyone, and I'll see y'all on Friday.

Sweet. Looking forward to Friday.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

Do you have pics of the offered tops? Not sure if it's gonna run out fast, but it'd be better to know what I'd like to buy and not have to make the choices on the fly. And what time will it be on Friday? .

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

I've got the tops in the GB form (away from my computer until this evening), and you can change them - no problem.

And I'll open it at 10:30 EST on Friday - I'll email it out to the people on the IC list as I put it live, so if you want a notification please join the IC form in the first post.

[NeroGrave]

Is that 10.30am or 10.30pm? Gotta stay woke due to different timezone

[ReDsNoTDeAd]

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=102633.0

GB is live!

[shivam1698]

Has anyone tried mill-maxing this? Or does someone know if there is enough space behind PCB for it?

[forsee]

Has anyone tried mill-maxing this? Or does someone know if there is enough space behind PCB for it?

I will be trying it. I confirmed with ReDsNoTDeAd over email and both 0305 and 7305 should fit.