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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:23:13

Title: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:23:13
10/30/17 Some info might be outdated or has changed - refer to website or GB thread for latest info please - TY
GB Thread - https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=92259.0
GB Website - www.pearlboards.com

About me and the Pearl
Hello I'm Kooba, this boards sole designer, and I'm here to tell you the modern day 40% board has arrived! Ive loved 40% boards and decided to fuse my three favorites together into one. Mechminis RGB, Mininvans Cherry/Alps compatibility and JD45s thick case and blocked style. I then added some modern features like side indicators, usb-c and a better layout. Initially it was just a project for myself, but the community received it well so I'm going to decide if i can sell it to you all! Ive invested over 2k into it so far and countless hours. Hope you enjoy the board and support this project! - Koobaczech

Elephant in the room
All should be done in a few months with a fixed price between $250-$300. Shipping is free in CONUS, and $40-$70 International via USPS. Min and Max order quantity tentatively planned at 50-100. Not set in stone. As it is my first ever project, I have signed countless NDA's. I kindly ask that you don't ask me for design files/quotes/contacts.

Main features

Secondary features

Definite NO's in this project

What a purchase should include

Pictures of my real working prototypes in cyan/red/purple/titanium
(https://i.imgur.com/MNlIWbZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ycYeDUZ.jpg)
No RGB diffuser
(https://i.imgur.com/zik9ACe.jpg)
Cyan USB-C
(https://i.imgur.com/wkX6z9m.jpg)
Cyan vs JD45
(https://i.imgur.com/hAWDGMd.jpg)
Cyan Side
(https://i.imgur.com/FgCHim0.jpg)
Cyan matrix
(https://i.imgur.com/GwVxWUX.jpg)
Red Kit
(https://i.imgur.com/oypalXQ.jpg)
Red top down
(https://i.imgur.com/wugovwg.jpg)
Red Alps
(https://i.imgur.com/faw1jrA.jpg)
Red done
(https://i.imgur.com/ncYUtBo.jpg)
Top of weight
(https://i.imgur.com/yJfRYz5.jpg)
Bottom of weight
(https://i.imgur.com/baR9afE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bXMdiHX.jpg)
QMK/Cherry keys
(https://i.imgur.com/1fMXzum.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/o9DdeOQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wXpzsWr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iedPR5y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9vOxJ6G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zE0FOgf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NyLuzZu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WmmKREO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KIP0u4A.jpg)
PCB
(https://i.imgur.com/tQFj0Kc.jpg)
Indicator lights
(https://i.imgur.com/yf81nqK.jpg)
RGB Diffuser
(https://i.imgur.com/2rxhMeF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mR9ADcm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/njzWsrV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xHNsZ0n.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bmfu7fY.jpg)
Misc.
(https://i.imgur.com/TBrvmrq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lpIP3SY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/D6S6Co4.jpg)
LAYOUT
(https://i.imgur.com/ICnfT68.png)
LAYOUT EXAMPLES
(https://i.imgur.com/jcEYill.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pbM6hha.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ndBw99O.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IDLoTqL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2EDrJq4.jpg)
TRADITIONAL JD45 LAYOUT NOT THAT IS NOT SUPPORTED
(https://i.imgur.com/xxnCSNu.jpg)
Renders done by me, closely related to actual colors
(https://i.imgur.com/KbIjo17.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/GmiZpqL.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/WcpslGU.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/N5qjWEj.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/OXqiGo1.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/mpisbze.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/7L8m69N.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/YtJk1lX.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ee5FP7t.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/vYJhISe.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/YLaShcP.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZsAarsa.png)
Parts
(https://i.imgur.com/LdnbExS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/iKuwNiA.png)

More about me

Current state of project/other important notes

Special thanks to
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% -Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps - GB 1 MONTH
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:23:27
INTEREST CHECK FORM
https://goo.gl/forms/E4TOS88G6qVG6UwD3

UPDATES
GB will be run on the first week of NOV at www.pearlboards.com. Shipping costs will be added to base price. Free shipping CONUS, $40-$70 International via USPS. You can purchase additional components there as well. Estimated completion near January.

Follow me on IG for more pics = Koobaczech
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:23:43
Reserved - Just want to take a moment to thank anyone and everyone showing interest and helping me collect data via the interest check. Appreciate your time, comments and opinions above all!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: scwoopz on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:37:31
Wow. Beautiful. I'm definitely interested.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: kmba on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:39:33
This is beautiful and I love it, but what's the reasoning behind the incorrect stagger? If you made the tab 1.25 and enter 1.75 you'd correct stagger and be in line with more standard 40/45% keycaps. That one change would put me in 100%.

Edit: I see you posted that the current layout allows for use of regular caps without the need for 40/45 kits. I personally would prefer to scour for caps and maintain proper stagger.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:48:19
Thanks a lot guys! :) The stagger is because i was sick and tired of the existing 40% layouts. That old layout is really dumb imo and you need to find modifier kits which is a real pita. If you took the keycaps off and aligned them to my layout, you will find that the tiny stagger is almost insignificant, and the keyset compatibility/aesthetic gain is well worth the change. Its not like its a full tilted layout you see on some ergodoxes, its just a tiny shift for a large gain.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: kmba on Fri, 01 September 2017, 21:54:16
Thanks a lot guys! :) The stagger is because i was sick and tired of the existing 40% layouts. It is really dumb and you need to find modifier kits. If you took the keycaps off and aligned them to my layout, you will find that the tiny stagger is insignificant, and the keyset compatibility/ aesthetic gain is well worth the change. Its not like its a full tilted layout you see on some ergodoxes, its a tiny shift for a large gain.

Welp, it's too cool for me not to give it a shot. Very happy it has full R4 punctuation, as I immediately disregard any 40% without it  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 22:03:45
Ha! Thanks bud, won't disappoint!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: ullr on Fri, 01 September 2017, 22:24:53
The case looks great, but I’m not sold on that staggering.

And it’s a shame you had to limit the stock.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: kmba on Fri, 01 September 2017, 22:34:39
The case looks great, but I’m not sold on that staggering.

And it’s a shame you had to limit the stock.

Limited stock isn't necessarily a bad thing.. we've seen instances where gb runners and manufacturers bite off more than they can chew which leads to production and logistics issues. 


Koobaczech, can you post some top down shots of the prototypes with keycaps on?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 22:39:15
Hey there! Sure, let get those for you. And I'm not limiting stock, just want to be able to fulfill on my first GB :]
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: ipreferpie on Fri, 01 September 2017, 22:42:59
For the ALPS plate, will there be MX stab cutouts to allow for SP DSA key compatibility?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Fri, 01 September 2017, 23:05:37
Limited stock isn't necessarily a bad thing.. we've seen instances where gb runners and manufacturers bite off more than they can chew which leads to production and logistics issues. 

Koobaczech, can you post some top down shots of the prototypes with keycaps on?
Pictures updated for you sir, under layout.


For the ALPS plate, will there be MX stab cutouts to allow for SP DSA key compatibility?

Hey there bud. Im currently working on the alps plate, and am a bit unsure as to what you mean. Mind clarifying? Ty so much!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Sent on Sat, 02 September 2017, 01:02:07
Glad to see this on GH.  Saw it on Reddit the other day and was very interested.  Will the plates only be offered in alu?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Sat, 02 September 2017, 01:24:50
I want it just for the diamond!!  :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Manticzeus on Sat, 02 September 2017, 02:21:53
My wallet is ready, I can't wait for this to happen.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Damonskv on Sat, 02 September 2017, 02:27:29
Hell, ideal 40% keyboard!!! The first time I regret that I mainly use Cyrillic layout and I need a little more keys  :(
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: consolelog on Sat, 02 September 2017, 02:36:29
As a fellow blocked JD45 owner...Im super pumped for this! Love the design, and that cyan is to die for. Hope i can get my hands on one


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: sundin on Sat, 02 September 2017, 03:15:06
Interested.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: tobsn on Sat, 02 September 2017, 06:35:09
Good to see your dream case becoming reality! Great work! :D
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: squeakypizza on Sat, 02 September 2017, 08:48:20
This is beautiful!  IC form filled! 
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: potatobot on Sat, 02 September 2017, 09:08:26
ill take one purple case please.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: ipreferpie on Sat, 02 September 2017, 09:34:22
Hey there bud. Im currently working on the alps plate, and am a bit unsure as to what you mean. Mind clarifying? Ty so much!


No worries -- if you look at this photo by SP here:
(https://cdn6.bigcommerce.com/s-ktpi93fl/products/234/images/956/Alps__75394.1497561272.400.250.jpg?c=2)


You can see that they use Cherry MX style stabilizers. Granted, you can use Matias style stabs, but they are terrible, rattly, and lifts the caps up (especially for 2.75u and spacebar caps). If you offer cutouts for Cherry MX stabs on the ALPS plates, you can solve all the issues. Here are some photos showing Costar MX stabs for ALPS:
(https://i.imgur.com/vZFo5sn.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/2Sy4wJe.png)
But for the best, I'd suggest larger Cherry MX cutouts. Basically, Cherry > Costar >>>> ALPS in terms of stab stability.
(https://www.google.com.hk/imgres?imgurl=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvZFo5sn.png&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fgeekhack.org%2Findex.php%3Ftopic%3D65189.1350&docid=v11SWHIo9IVqqM&tbnid=w1AzMvXYobqlAM%3A&vet=10ahUKEwj6-6qE24bWAhUBlpQKHcv8Dy4QMwh9KE4wTg..i&w=777&h=222&itg=1&bih=857&biw=1706&q=alps%20plate%20cherry%20mx%20stabilizer&ved=0ahUKEwj6-6qE24bWAhUBlpQKHcv8Dy4QMwh9KE4wTg&iact=mrc&uact=8)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Sat, 02 September 2017, 09:47:19
Glad to see this on GH.  Saw it on Reddit the other day and was very interested.  Will the plates only be offered in alu?
Thank you :] I am exploring other finishes and materials at this time, but i might keep the plate at alu. Were you thinking about maybe brass or stainless steel?

As a fellow blocked JD45 owner...Im super pumped for this! Love the design, and that cyan is to die for. Hope i can get my hands on one
You and me both dude, too long since they were remade. Thanks for the love!

You can see that they use Cherry MX style stabilizers. Granted, you can use Matias style stabs, but they are terrible, rattly, and lifts the caps up (especially for 2.75u and spacebar caps). If you offer cutouts for Cherry MX stabs on the ALPS plates, you can solve all the issues. Here are some photos showing Costar MX stabs for ALPS:
But for the best, I'd suggest larger Cherry MX cutouts. Basically, Cherry > Costar >>>> ALPS in terms of stab stability.
So thats very interesting that you mentioned this, because my ALPS keyset is the same way. Im thinking that to accommodate both ALPS styles i need to make a small square cutout for the MX stem, but still have the latches for the costar style stabs, right? Its definitely going to get messy, i hope i can make an all in one plate lol.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: ipreferpie on Sat, 02 September 2017, 09:57:00
I am exploring other finishes and materials at this time, but i might keep the plate at alu. Were you thinking about maybe brass or stainless steel?

So thats very interesting that you mentioned this, because my ALPS keyset is the same way. Im thinking that to accommodate both ALPS styles i need to make a small square cutout for the MX stem, but still have the latches for the costar style stabs, right? Its definitely going to get messy, i hope i can make an all in one plate lol.


I'm down for a brass plate and SS myself for extras :) As for the stabs, yes, you can definitely do both costar and Cherry as a combo. You can see it here:
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=41464.0;attach=17057;image)
(https://i.imgur.com/V0G47Pt.jpg)

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: pixelpusher on Sat, 02 September 2017, 10:59:07
Yes this cutout is what you want.  Unless Matias comes out with some decent keycaps, SP is going to be our only option for new alps caps.  The cruciforms they (SP) use are lined up with OEM style costar (the one pictured above).  Alps style stabilizers take quite a bit of hacking to make them work with those new keycaps.  I've done it, and I'm not sure I would want to go that route again.

It's still not all fun and games with SP alps caps.  They require hours of careful stem shaving if you want to ever remove them.  I hope with the new datacomp switches coming out we will see some more attention for keycaps and standard stabilizer placement

The board looks quite fantastic, by the way. 
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: DreLLin on Sat, 02 September 2017, 11:04:59
This board looks amazing. Brass plate and extra PCB would be a nice addition.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Sent on Sat, 02 September 2017, 11:36:32
Glad to see this on GH.  Saw it on Reddit the other day and was very interested.  Will the plates only be offered in alu?
Thank you :] I am exploring other finishes and materials at this time, but i might keep the plate at alu. Were you thinking about maybe brass or stainless steel?

Yup, brass is what I would prefer and I know ss seems to be rather popular, as well.  It wouldn't be a deal breaker but if it's offered... :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: kmba on Sat, 02 September 2017, 12:53:42
I've been thinking about your comments on the layout choice/stagger, and I can understand the motivation to be able to use standard caps without needing to source 40/45 kits, but I still can't convince myself it's the better choice.  I'm a big stickler for proper profile on each row and proper legends, and this layout won't provide the ability to do either with a sculpted set.  Despite that, the case is amazing looking, so I'm dismissing the kit, or the thought or hand wiring with a custom plate  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Sat, 02 September 2017, 13:23:26
Thanks for the comments guys. Will ask about brass and design the plates accordingly.

I've been thinking about your comments on the layout choice/stagger, and I can understand the motivation to be able to use standard caps without needing to source 40/45 kits, but I still can't convince myself it's the better choice.  I'm a big stickler for proper profile on each row and proper legends, and this layout won't provide the ability to do either with a sculpted set.  Despite that, the case is amazing looking, so I'm dismissing the kit, or the thought or hand wiring with a custom plate  :thumb:
Sorry to hear tameone. I don't think the proper 40/45 layout will ever be made due to the tiny form factor. But if i ever knew anything about 40%'s, its that this solution is a godsend to us all. For a 4.7mm give or take stagger to the right on a single row, two huge problems are tackled and fixed. Those problems being wacky aesthetics and the ever crippling need to source a proper 40 kit, especially for legendary keysets like SA Calm Depths that are on the cyan board. As for the proper profiles, The tab and |\ are R3 for my SA set, as well as that whole row. It all depends on your keyset. If you ever reconsider, this project will welcome you with open arms!
More
(https://i.imgur.com/v5S6EYO.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: xondat on Sat, 02 September 2017, 13:41:22
Why not something like a GON Mobik which uses standard caps?

(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=63566.0;attach=78733;image)

Unless I'm missing something, there will still be incorrect profiles here, especially with OEM/Cherry.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Sat, 02 September 2017, 14:03:04
Hey Xondat! Great seeing you on here. That being said, there will always be inconsistencies on the layouts and profiles for 40% boards. All i can do is offer my version of it. Some will understand, others won't. Cant make everyone happy unfortunately, and can't make an all in one solution here either  :D
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Rumblehotep on Sat, 02 September 2017, 15:12:11
Filled out, can't wait to see what this would look like in purple.
I kind of love the idea of a 40% that doesn't need 40% keys seeing as I didn't buy every kit available of past sets I like because I didn't have x or y layout at the time.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: kmba on Sat, 02 September 2017, 16:29:47
Why not something like a GON Mobik which uses standard caps?

Show Image
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=63566.0;attach=78733;image)


Unless I'm missing something, there will still be incorrect profiles here, especially with OEM/Cherry.

Yes, there will be on cherry/oem.  But, The Mobik isn't a good solution for many of us due to the lack of punctuation.  Full sized mod keys take up a lot of room, and not having comma, period, and question mark on the default layer infuriates me..  And if you added back in the punctuation, you'd basically have just a 60% with no num row, which half way defeats the purpose of 40/45% in the first place (being very small).  I guess as Koobaczech said, this layout won't be for everyone, but it's his take and it will surely please a lot of people.
0
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: homerowco on Sun, 03 September 2017, 08:01:10
@Koob you are very welcome! Sorry I didn’t have more time than making you the switch plate starter for your custom layout but it looks like this turned out to be a good thing ;)

For everyone else - I made a 60% starter kit for Fusion 360 (free for hobby use, runs on windows/mac):

https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/homerow-co-open-source-parts-t17020.html

Koob started with a similar kit and nothing else! It’s easy to learn and has making you cases in no time!

Good luck!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: MrTq on Sun, 03 September 2017, 09:36:22
@Koob you are very welcome! Sorry I didn’t have more time than making you the switch plate starter for your custom layout but it looks like this turned out to be a good thing ;)

For everyone else - I made a 60% starter kit for Fusion 360 (free for hobby use, runs on windows/mac):

https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/homerow-co-open-source-parts-t17020.html

Koob started with a similar kit and nothing else! It’s easy to learn and has making you cases in no time!

Good luck!
Love it. Thank you


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Mon, 04 September 2017, 12:21:06
Update1: Factory said i can do polished brass plates, but they are really expensive! Will try to get some made. And plates have been fixed to support cherry and costar stabs. But not Matias style stabs, they don't fit.

Update 2: (https://i.imgur.com/k7YVWXR.png)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: lordgiblite on Mon, 04 September 2017, 12:48:19
Oh boy! Excited as all get out for this one, time to start saving big time!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: smithyithy on Mon, 04 September 2017, 13:03:08
Just when I thought I didn't need another 40% board, you come along with this... Seriously nice design dude, Alps support is awesome too  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Draic on Mon, 04 September 2017, 16:15:27
please make sure that the PCB works with USB-C to USB-C cables and not only USB-C to USB-A. Thanks
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Rawrsor on Mon, 04 September 2017, 20:03:28
as a current jd45 owner more blocked corner 40%s are definitely welcome! Time to prepare my wallet.... :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: widdlekitty on Mon, 04 September 2017, 21:49:54
Count me in!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Mon, 04 September 2017, 22:26:22
I'm so down for this!!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl - A premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps 40% keyboard
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 05 September 2017, 15:14:53
Thanks for all the support everyone. I'm getting R2 prototypes made to address several issues. Purple and Dark gray case colors, and 2 very expensive polished brass plates.

The following things were addressed in R2 case protos

The following things are still being explored but are not promised
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Tue, 05 September 2017, 16:26:53
Thanks for all the support everyone. I'm getting R2 prototypes made to address several issues. Purple and Dark gray case colors, and 2 very expensive polished brass plates.

The following things were addressed in R2 case protos
  • Slightly rounder corners
  • Slightly rounder brass weight
  • Tighter bezels around keycaps
  • Alps/Cherry stab compatible plates
  • Notch for usb so PCB can slide in from under the case without having to tilt it
  • Enclosure under right corner where led indicators sit so light doesn't leak through to the RGB diffuser

The following things are still being explored but are not promised
  • Different indicator light placement
  • QMK support in separate pcb model
  • Other layout possibilities
  • Other case finishes besides anodization

Thanks for the update info.  :thumb: You can put me down for one!!  ;)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: MMKB on Wed, 06 September 2017, 00:02:04
How much lower/thinner can it be? Looking fantastic!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Wed, 06 September 2017, 07:32:13
Great looking updates.  Alternate layout possibilities is obviously something I would like.  Just that small tweak to R3 to move it to the left 0.25 would be great.   I suspect the PCBs could be updated to accommodate both layouts, and you could offer two choices of plate layouts.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: RSC on Wed, 06 September 2017, 14:57:42
What keycaps are you using on this picture?

(https://i.imgur.com/faw1jrA.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: odd on Wed, 06 September 2017, 17:13:34
Oh hell yes!!!! count me in for sure.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Wed, 06 September 2017, 17:41:23
What keycaps are you using on this picture?

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/faw1jrA.jpg)


looks like Alps profile, which is very close to OEM.. but I have no idea what the actual caps are.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: sth on Wed, 06 September 2017, 18:42:40
this is frickin cute. almost makes me wish i could enjoy 40% layouts!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: saucybulgogi on Thu, 07 September 2017, 09:32:30
Thanks for all the support everyone. I'm getting R2 prototypes made to address several issues. Purple and Dark gray case colors, and 2 very expensive polished brass plates.

The following things were addressed in R2 case protos
  • Slightly rounder corners
  • Slightly rounder brass weight
  • Tighter bezels around keycaps
  • Alps/Cherry stab compatible plates
  • Notch for usb so PCB can slide in from under the case without having to tilt it
  • Enclosure under right corner where led indicators sit so light doesn't leak through to the RGB diffuser

The following things are still being explored but are not promised
  • Different indicator light placement
  • QMK support in separate pcb model
  • Other layout possibilities
  • Other case finishes besides anodization

Will any of the prototypes, either r1 or r2, be available for purchase ?


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 07 September 2017, 10:56:18
this is frickin cute. almost makes me wish i could enjoy 40% layouts!

I feel the same. I'm going to get it even though I have never considered a 40% board.

I have 2 fullsize, 5 TKLs, one 65%, and 5 60% boards.  Never thought something could sway me to buy a 40% until the Pearl came along :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Draic on Thu, 07 September 2017, 16:23:25
When I look at the unusual stagger I can't stop thinking that it is looking super weird. I understand the problem and why you want to change the stagger for better compatibilty, but I wondered about a different solution: Why not keep the mod keys like proposed but use small gaps between the mods and alphas where needed to also have the usual staggering on the alphas? I personally would think this would look better, atleast in my mind it does.
I can understand if you dislike this idea, but I wondered if you had thought about this and what your thoughts are on using gaps.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 07 September 2017, 16:27:53
When I look at the unusual stagger I can't stop thinking that it is looking super weird. I understand the problem and why you want to change the stagger for better compatibilty, but I wondered about a different solution: Why not keep the mod keys like proposed but use small gaps between the mods and alphas where needed to also have the usual staggering on the alphas? I personally would think this would look better, atleast in my mind it does.
I can understand if you dislike this idea, but I wondered if you had thought about this and what your thoughts are on using gaps.

Isn't it the same stagger as the filco minila?  I've still yet to try one out, but I've asked at least a dozen people and they all say it's such a small change you really don't notice.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 07 September 2017, 18:18:29
Hi everyone! Been busy prepping for the hurricane. I live in Orlando, FL and my whole family in Miami, been running around a lot. Let me answer some questions though, and as always, ty for all the support!

What keycaps are you using on this picture?
looks like Alps profile, which is very close to OEM.. but I have no idea what the actual caps are.
KBParadise V60 Alps keycaps!

How much lower/thinner can it be? Looking fantastic!
Ty very much :] A tiny bit more, making it real tight.

please make sure that the PCB works with USB-C to USB-C cables and not only USB-C to USB-A. Thanks

I will look into it as soon as my UBS-C to USB-C cable arrives. Amazon shipment delayed from the hurricane.
Will any of the prototypes, either r1 or r2, be available for purchase ?
Not yet my friend. Im using them to hone in any changes that i need, and that might mean handling them around a lot, which in turn could mean scratches and things. Id hate to sell something used like that.

When I look at the unusual stagger I can't stop thinking that it is looking super weird. I understand the problem and why you want to change the stagger for better compatibilty, but I wondered about a different solution: Why not keep the mod keys like proposed but use small gaps between the mods and alphas where needed to also have the usual staggering on the alphas? I personally would think this would look better, atleast in my mind it does.
I can understand if you dislike this idea, but I wondered if you had thought about this and what your thoughts are on using gaps.
Its really hard for me decide on this guys. The very slight stagger allows you to use any ANSI keyset without the need for a specific 40% modifier kit. Its a huge improvement to all the existing 40s, so that you can use any old keyset on it. The goal is to make these 40s more user friendly. People think 40% and immediately get confused by the layouts and sizing of keys and such. I wanted to avoid this. Truth be told, i don't think you can notice the unusual stagger just by looking at my pictures, its 4mm difference. I think you are more used to not seeing a normal looking layout on a 40% is what it is. But all things considered, i am waiting on my R2 PCBS before i start modifying them again. I don't dislike any idea presented to me, its just there are a lot of small things to consider. More layouts would mean more plate options and the PCB would have a ton of tiny offset holes and things might not fit properly. Definitely looking into it i promise.

Great looking updates.  Alternate layout possibilities is obviously something I would like.  Just that small tweak to R3 to move it to the left 0.25 would be great.   I suspect the PCBs could be updated to accommodate both layouts, and you could offer two choices of plate layouts.
Definitely looking into it for you bud! I understand your needs and concerns and will try my best to see what can be done :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: lordgiblite on Thu, 07 September 2017, 23:03:07
Well first up, please be safe down there! I heard it's going to get crazy and I'd rather have you and your family safe then have any updates lol

I'm totally digging all that you're doing and would love to help (if I had any actual skill in creating/modifying keyboard components, so I'll just be your cheerleader on the sidelines)

Quote
The goal is to make these 40s more user friendly. People think 40% and immediately get confused by the layouts and sizing of keys and such. I wanted to avoid this.
Honestly, I would love for you to keep this concept. Yeah 40% boards are a "niche" crowd but dare to be different and help out the less knowledgeable on keycap layouts! I fully support you on this :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Draic on Fri, 08 September 2017, 02:59:47
Truth be told, i don't think you can notice the unusual stagger just by looking at my pictures, its 4mm difference. I think you are more used to not seeing a normal looking layout on a 40% is what it is.

Just by looking at the alphas they just look "wrong" to me. The picture with the chocolatey keys shows this very clearly. 4mm is a lot and is easy to notice. It has nothing to do with being used to different mods on 40%s. The alignments on the alphas is just too different. As I said, I understand the reason here and I agree: Having compatibility with normal keysets makes this approach interesting, but personally the staggering might still kill it for me. That is why I was thinking of different approaches and having a small gap on first and third row to "fix" the stagger but keep the same mod compatibility. Personally I think a gap looks better than the unusual staggering. Maybe some other people can share their thoughts on this matter, if they do not care about this at all, or have even better ideas
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Fri, 08 September 2017, 08:21:59
Gaps are much more visually unappealing than any misalignment imo.   I don't find the stagger weird looking at all, for me it's just a matter of maintaining profiles and legends.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: The_Boom_Boy on Fri, 08 September 2017, 08:45:08
Those indicator led are pretty noice!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Sent on Fri, 08 September 2017, 09:08:19
Gaps are much more visually unappealing than any misalignment imo.   I don't find the stagger weird looking at all, for me it's just a matter of maintaining profiles and legends.

Pretty much my thoughts.  I'd rather have correct profiles at the cost of a bit of misalignment.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Tre3Cycl3S on Sat, 09 September 2017, 00:54:25
This little 40% is really cool! With a purple case offering and alps compatibility, looks like I am getting myself a new 40%. Looking good, very excited for this!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Mon, 11 September 2017, 20:41:04
I think I like the more squared off case (v1)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: amnesia0287 on Mon, 11 September 2017, 22:06:27
I think I like the more squared off case (v1)

+1

the more squared corners look better to me, but the other V2 improvements sound nice :D
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Tue, 12 September 2017, 17:18:20
Nice, I'm glad to see the Pearl45 interest check is going well, Koob! Everyone, this is the ultimate 45%, it allows many layout options & I look forward to the gb. BTW, everyone please be in your prayers (or positive energy if you don't pray) to Koobaczech. He lives in FL, is doing fine, but he resides in an area that's currently w/o power. He's a good person, so let's do what ever we can to make sure he is in high spirits!


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Tue, 12 September 2017, 17:19:19
This little 40% is really cool! With a purple case offering and alps compatibility, looks like I am getting myself a new 40%. Looking good, very excited for this!
Trust me, purple cases will available!


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Thu, 14 September 2017, 23:58:40
Damn that purple looks nice!!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: pixelpusher on Fri, 15 September 2017, 00:41:57
.  keep up the good work, sir
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: jackedhardwarejunkie on Fri, 15 September 2017, 01:44:29
This little 40% is really cool! With a purple case offering and alps compatibility, looks like I am getting myself a new 40%. Looking good, very excited for this!
Trust me, purple cases will available!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I need that purple case.. Looks beautiful.

Sent from my SM-G955W using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Sat, 16 September 2017, 16:10:14
Thank you all for the support! Hurricane IRMA left me without power for 5 days but no one got hurt and all is well. Im back to share some updates!

1. USB-C to USB-C looks like it won't be supported for a few reasons. Power draw limits on certain devices can cause problems, PCB limitations and boot mapper client complications. USB-C to USB-A is fine however. I apologize. Will keep looking into this.

2. The layout i have seems to be what will stay. I am still trying to add more options to the bottom row but its becoming complicated with all the traces and RGB leds in the way and the size of the pcb.

3. Built my two prototypes and have been testing them for a few days, they seem to work wonderfully and i don't notice the stagger differences. Its just like my blocked JD45.

4. My R2 Diffusers came in. They include holes for CNC Cone feet, so you can build the pearl with the diffuser as the base, flat or with the feet if you'd like.

Here are some pictures!
New diffusers
(https://i.imgur.com/LAuVIeD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rL2YEdA.jpg)
Red build
(https://i.imgur.com/ncYUtBo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gFfkeai.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9M3U7cG.jpg)
Blue build
(https://i.imgur.com/gjO8fur.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GwVxWUX.jpg)

Here are typing videos!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Sat, 16 September 2017, 16:50:43
They look beautiful koob!!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Sat, 16 September 2017, 18:57:29
New builds look nice. Understandable about the layout changes.. when you're already supporting MX and apps on the same plate there's only so much room to work with. I suspect I'll just end up buying some uniform profile caps for it
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Scarhoof on Sat, 16 September 2017, 20:40:41
Looks amazing! I'm definately in when this goes live  i would love to see a Planck or Let's Split case with this quality/design too if you are ever thinking about additional projects.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: holtenc on Sat, 16 September 2017, 21:55:30
Nice! Might have to sell my JD45. Will the holes in the diffuser for the feet be counter-sunk in the final version?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: ye_cole on Sun, 17 September 2017, 01:06:58
What material are you using for the diffusers?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: stoic-lemon on Sun, 17 September 2017, 06:43:28
Happy to hear things are going well. Glad the you got through the storm, too. Boards look great.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Draic on Mon, 18 September 2017, 18:26:07
sorry if this is a stupid question, but is bootmapper Windows only or is there a linux version that I missed somewhere?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 19 September 2017, 16:31:02
New builds look nice. Understandable about the layout changes.. when you're already supporting MX and apps on the same plate there's only so much room to work with. I suspect I'll just end up buying some uniform profile caps for it
Exactly right sir. But also the PCB is tight. Hard to add a ton of things in. I feel like I've disappointed you the most ;)

Looks amazing! I'm definately in when this goes live  i would love to see a Planck or Let's Split case with this quality/design too if you are ever thinking about additional projects.
Thank you very much! I want to run more projects for sure! Will have to see what will benefit everyone the most.

Nice! Might have to sell my JD45. Will the holes in the diffuser for the feet be counter-sunk in the final version?
Will not counter sunk. The diffuser is not so thick, the screw would probably go through it! I thought about it :p

What material are you using for the diffusers?
Polycarbonate. Rough on one side, smooth on the other.

Happy to hear things are going well. Glad the you got through the storm, too. Boards look great.
Thanks a lot guy!

sorry if this is a stupid question, but is bootmapper Windows only or is there a linux version that I missed somewhere?
Hi there. Bootmapper is available for download for Windows/Mac via http://blog.winkeyless.kr/155

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Tue, 19 September 2017, 16:57:24
no no .. no disappointment.  It's a beautiful design and I love it nonetheless. 
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Robotical on Sat, 23 September 2017, 20:06:15
Got to see this case today in person! The board is absolutely awesome and so freaking hefty. The finish is fantastic on the prototypes. I can't wait for this thing. Keep up the great work Koob!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: gutsack on Sun, 01 October 2017, 02:20:19
IC form submitted, very much looking forward to this.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Draic on Sun, 01 October 2017, 05:05:28
Any chance we could see a prototype picture with something other than SA profile keycaps at some point (personally would love to see an example with GMK caps). Pictures in which the split spacebar option is utilized would be nice aswell.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: regionfree on Mon, 02 October 2017, 09:40:29
My body is ready... So is my wallet... My wife will never know.
Title: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Mon, 02 October 2017, 09:49:33
My body is ready... So is my wallet... My wife will never know.
****, you & me both. I plan on 2 Pearl45s, plus a PCB. I have acrylic case aspirations for the PCB.....⌨️⌨️⌨️⌨️


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dubious on Tue, 03 October 2017, 12:36:27
this looks pretty sweet

Is there room in the case to cram a bluetooth mod?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Peiweisgreat on Wed, 04 October 2017, 22:00:45
Super excited about the alps compatibility. I've never tried alps switches or a 40% board before, but I might as well try both with this board.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Puddsy on Wed, 04 October 2017, 23:14:03
this looks pretty sweet

Is there room in the case to cram a bluetooth mod?

alu cases usually aren't bluetooth friendly
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kconfire on Thu, 05 October 2017, 08:48:16
Oh c***!!
I really dig this.
Please, make the GB happen! :D
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dubious on Thu, 05 October 2017, 11:44:52
this looks pretty sweet

Is there room in the case to cram a bluetooth mod?

alu cases usually aren't bluetooth friendly

ahh good point
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: ideus on Fri, 06 October 2017, 15:11:40
Is pricing information available for this?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Puddsy on Fri, 06 October 2017, 15:14:29
Is pricing information available for this?

he said he's shooting for about $250-300
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Fri, 06 October 2017, 15:45:16
Is pricing information available for this?
Not yet, but believe Koob is shooting for around $250ish. I know some other options will be available too, like an MKB sleeve, wristrest, etc.


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: ideus on Fri, 06 October 2017, 16:21:03
That is steep if you consider other upcoming offerings in the same range that may be more practical than a forty for real life work.
Title: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Fri, 06 October 2017, 17:18:07
That is steep if you consider other upcoming offerings in the same range that may be more practical than a forty for real life work.
Understood, I use 40s all the time. W/ the various layout options, I consider this the ultimate 45% MKB. I  know many 40s users will feel like that too. Again, I understand what you are saying though, ideus!


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kriminal on Sat, 07 October 2017, 18:03:30
ok I guess ill have to start saving lol!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Darknight00z on Sat, 07 October 2017, 19:34:28
That is steep if you consider other upcoming offerings in the same range that may be more practical than a forty for real life work.

What upcoming offerings are you referring to? There is never enough money to burn in this hobby.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: ideus on Sat, 07 October 2017, 19:38:53
That is steep if you consider other upcoming offerings in the same range that may be more practical than a forty for real life work.

What upcoming offerings are you referring to? There is never enough money to burn in this hobby.


Keep this thread on topic. Just pointing that pricing may not be that competitive. However, for forty users it may be irrelevant, they will pay whatever be the asking price. So let it be.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: xondat on Sat, 07 October 2017, 19:50:55
That is steep if you consider other upcoming offerings in the same range that may be more practical than a forty for real life work.

What upcoming offerings are you referring to? There is never enough money to burn in this hobby.


Keep this thread on topic. Just pointing that pricing may not be that competitive. However, for forty users it may be irrelevant, they will pay whatever be the asking price. So let it be.

That's on topic?

It'll be helpful for OP to judge pricing, so you shouldn't just say it's steep without reason.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Mon, 09 October 2017, 19:43:44
Hey everyone! Breaking the silence with some news! Got my second Pearl revisions in (PURPLE AND TITANIUM), along with the brass plates. Heres the update.

PCB design is final. USB-C to USB-A only. Official QMK can be added in the future, but not for Round 1 GB. For now will send u/jetpacktuxedo a PCB to see if he can port QMK to it.

Cases were close to perfect. Anodize hooks were visible on the insides and the weights were kinda rough. QUALITY IS NOT PERFECT. New design works wonderfully though. Light doesn't bleed through indicator holes to each other, corners and weight are rounder, plates slide in better, usb notch is cut and the usb hole is just right. Figured out the correct mounting hardware as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/MNlIWbZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HcAIlLy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HNrMon3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/j1atPwj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hlklIgw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/idkeY5t.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6EXSjQi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fwYPu9G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sA4MSUV.jpg)

The brass plates will be sandblasted in the future, not polished. They sound and feel really nice. More of a clink than a click when compared to an anodized plate. Price will be higher for the brass option. And stainless steel plates will be offered as well. There will be 8 plates offered. One universal and 7 combinations of split space, split backspace and split shift. The non split plates will offer support for costar stabilizers and PCB mounted cherry stabilizers. PLATE mounted stabilizers will not be supported as the cutout would be too small to allow PCB mounted stabs and the PCB mounted stabs are more common. For the split options (opened up), only cherry stabs will work.
(https://i.imgur.com/soqRyHk.jpg?1)

WHY 8 different plates? Its because of the ALPS. ALPS switches are wider than cherry switches, while cherry switches are taller. This means that when you split and open the plate such as to support a 2u backspace, the ALPS switch won't grab if you build a 2u ALPS on a split plate. It won't grab because it needs support on its sides to grab onto the plate. This really isn't a problem, but if you are REALLY PICKY and SURE you will build a 2U backspace only, then you might want to choose the unspilt backspace plate. Heres an example picture.
(https://i.imgur.com/tnE33Tr.png)

I saw some price mentions and wanted to address that. A blocked JD45, which is really the Pearls little brother costs $250 on mechanicalkeyboards dot com. Problem is that you cant buy one because they are out of stock. Pearl offers RGB, a weight, USB-C, brass/stainless steel plates, more CASE, and a ton of more colors than the JD45's black/silver. That all adds up, and is why the price isn't as low as WE ALL wish it was. We including me, because my intentions aren't to profit off this GB, i just want others to enjoy the Pearl and be able to get one and love it.

Now that everything is in order, i will be running the GB in a few months, maybe 2. So mark your calendars and save your money! Shipping might be expensive too for international, and it will be added on top of the price. I'm thinking $20 for CONUS in a flat rate priority box, and for international shipping i have no idea what to do, so any suggestions will be appreciated.

A complete Pearl buy will include a sticker, case, weight, plate, RGB diffuser, PCB, usb-c cable, screws and clear rubber feet.

Any chance we could see a prototype picture with something other than SA profile keycaps at some point (personally would love to see an example with GMK caps). Pictures in which the split spacebar option is utilized would be nice aswell.
Will get GMK pics soon (hoping on Robo's help xD)
(https://i.imgur.com/KMBjRIR.jpg)

FINALLY, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE SUPPORT<3
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 09 October 2017, 20:46:15
Anodizing hookmarks seem to be the bane of every GB lately. If you'd like, I have a guy you can send it to for a cerakote test. You don't have to strip anodization to get something cerakoted. Most people will be happy with anything, but this is clearly something you want to be YOURS and PERFECT and not "something everyone is OK with," which, frankly, is the way I'd rather it be.

Cerakote finishes are also cheaper than anodizing, in many situations.

A few other questions:

Where does the plate mount to the case? From what I can tell it mounts to the top part, which is the better way to do it, but I'd just like confirmation.

Does installing the diffuser interfere with the USB placement? On some recent boards (Revo RJ, to name one) with optional diffusers, the USB port makes contact with the case and shorts out if the diffuser is installed.

This will only be offered with the aluminum bottom, right? It already seems a little thin, so offering it with a flat/cone feet acrylic bottom seems like it would take a lot of the "solid" feel away. This was an issue on some older LZs, the Duck Orion, and an early iteration of the KMAC 1. I saw pictures of it further up the thread, but I didn't really read anything about them.

8 plates seems like a sorting NIGHTMARE. You might want to consider removing some options that are more rarely used. This will be your first GB, and sorting is where a lot of new runners fall short. In the same vein, it might be better to make people source their own cables, or to have someone like donutcat run a cable GB alongside this to make less work for yourself.

Plate mount stabs are **** anyway, no compatibility for those is fine. Anyone worth their salt is already using PCB mount stabs for everything anyway.

Custom packaging might be worth looking into, and shouldn't add too much to the cost. I know 27 has been looking into it for mech27 v2, you might want to throw him a PM or discord message. It should speed up the sorting and QC processes.

Also, typing angle?

Feel free to PM me a reply to this if you don't want to discuss details publicly. I know some people are very secretive with some of this info.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Mon, 09 October 2017, 21:04:03
Looks great Koob. Can’t wait to grab one!!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Mon, 09 October 2017, 21:04:32
Looks great Koob. Can’t wait to grab one!!
Same here


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Mon, 09 October 2017, 21:24:24
Anodizing hookmarks seem to be the bane of every GB lately. If you'd like, I have a guy you can send it to for a cerakote test. You don't have to strip anodization to get something cerakoted. Most people will be happy with anything, but this is clearly something you want to be YOURS and PERFECT and not "something everyone is OK with," which, frankly, is the way I'd rather it be.
Cerakote finishes are also cheaper than anodizing, in many situations.
A few other questions:

Where does the plate mount to the case? From what I can tell it mounts to the top part, which is the better way to do it, but I'd just like confirmation.

Does installing the diffuser interfere with the USB placement? On some recent boards (Revo RJ, to name one) with optional diffusers, the USB port makes contact with the case and shorts out if the diffuser is installed.

This will only be offered with the aluminum bottom, right? It already seems a little thin, so offering it with a flat/cone feet acrylic bottom seems like it would take a lot of the "solid" feel away. This was an issue on some older LZs, the Duck Orion, and an early iteration of the KMAC 1. I saw pictures of it further up the thread, but I didn't really read anything about them.

8 plates seems like a sorting NIGHTMARE. You might want to consider removing some options that are more rarely used. This will be your first GB, and sorting is where a lot of new runners fall short. In the same vein, it might be better to make people source their own cables, or to have someone like donutcat run a cable GB alongside this to make less work for yourself.

Plate mount stabs are **** anyway, no compatibility for those is fine. Anyone worth their salt is already using PCB mount stabs for everything anyway.

Custom packaging might be worth looking into, and shouldn't add too much to the cost. I know 27 has been looking into it for mech27 v2, you might want to throw him a PM or discord message. It should speed up the sorting and QC processes.

Also, typing angle?

Feel free to PM me a reply to this if you don't want to discuss details publicly. I know some people are very secretive with some of this info.

Thanks a lot for the questions and concerns Puddsy! Let me answer them for you.

1. That would be really cool to get a cerakoted Pearl. My finisher cannot cerakote, and it would be interesting to know the price/process if it were something to consider overall as part of the GB.

2. Plate is top mounted, 14 M3 screws! Ill link pictures for you.
(https://i.imgur.com/nVsNqBW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pApwuqT.jpg)

3. The diffuser does not come close to touching the usb by a long shot. Maybe by 4mms?
(https://i.imgur.com/PVBpD2B.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5dRWWOs.jpg)

4. Heres the thing about that, you can build it with the diffuser as a bottom piece, and if you wanted to, add cone feet to the diffuser. It will be offered with everything you need to build it 4 ways. Thats to say, you can build it with the Aluminum bot, with the Aluminum bot + diffuser, with just the diffuser as a flat bot, or with a coned diffuser. Up to you.
(https://i.imgur.com/AvvkcxG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JAqpl3f.jpg)

5. 8 plates i know right :/ I might take you up on that advice Puddsy. But the plate issue arose because of the damn ALPS/Costar stabs. Ill see! As for the cable, it will be a simple USB-C no thrills cable to get you going. I can batch order a ton and just throw them in. Although if donutcat would be willing, that would be wonderful. I don't want to stress the man out with a ton of USB-C cables.

6. Lmao i agree. Nothing against my boy evangs, but the plate mounted stabs would always pop out of my Minivan.

7. Yes! Ive been looking into custom foam packaging. Ive already sent a Pearl to my friend with some super bubble rap in a very snug box, packaged all nicely. Thanks to the small form factor and cushion, it seems like custom packaging might not be much of a worry. The Pearl travels very safely! But ill shoot him a message, ty.

8. Typing angle is 6 degrees (5.8 ) with ALU bot. With the cone feet it is a bit steeper, 7+ for sure.

Puddsy, thank you for all the advice and recommendations. Appreciate it very much!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Mon, 09 October 2017, 21:26:57
Looks great Koob. Can’t wait to grab one!!

Same here

Thank you so much fellas!!<3 Your support does not go unnoticed
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Peiweisgreat on Wed, 11 October 2017, 17:35:17
Looking at all the colors and they look amazing my friend, but think we can get a sample pic of the green?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Wed, 11 October 2017, 17:40:34
Looking at all the colors and they look amazing my friend, but think we can get a sample pic of the green?
A green lover!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: JFKroflcopter on Wed, 11 October 2017, 17:48:21
I never had any interest in 40% in the past. But this... this changes everything.

Pearl is a must have for me  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: eksuen on Wed, 11 October 2017, 18:58:22
Looking at all the colors and they look amazing my friend, but think we can get a sample pic of the green?
A green lover!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yay, more green!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: noobiest on Wed, 11 October 2017, 21:52:20
Are the corner indicator lights RGB or single color, and can they be turned off or adjusted in any other way?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dangboy on Thu, 12 October 2017, 11:54:01
I have no real reason to own two keyboards.
That is definitely not gonna stop me from jumping on this. It looks PERFECT
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Thu, 12 October 2017, 12:02:59
I have no real reason to own two keyboards.
That is definitely not gonna stop me from jumping on this. It looks PERFECT
Yes sure, I agree(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/3e64a30441e4cde9a64fddf87a2e687f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/00e74a2ca0379b796ac061a293899f24.jpg)
After all, you can never have too many 40s, right?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dangboy on Thu, 12 October 2017, 20:25:21
That is an absolutely  beautiful collection, my dude!
This is actually gonna be my first ever 40%. I've been super interested in that sexy form factor A E S T H E T I C for a while now though.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: William_S_Jones on Thu, 12 October 2017, 20:44:02
That is an absolutely  beautiful collection, my dude!
This is actually gonna be my first ever 40%. I've been super interested in that sexy form factor A E S T H E T I C for a while now though.
Thanks sir, after the MechKeysCA MM2 and the Pearl45, no more MKBs for me!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: SynkRz on Mon, 16 October 2017, 05:37:19
Do you have any more pictures of the board with different profiled keycaps? (dsa)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: The_Suec on Mon, 16 October 2017, 11:38:19
About me and the Pearl
  • Many anodization color options - Black, gray, silver, cyan, blue, red, pink, purple, champaign, dark green, yellow, orange
[/quote
Any chance we could see some samples of the colours ?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 09:36:48
Hello everyone. Back to answer some questions. But first, I've been building a website to take orders and calculate shipping costs to international buyers.

www.pearlboards.com

Shipping is free within CONUS. All the colors and options will be listed there but ill drop some renders with what I believe to be close to actual colors. Take the color renders with a pinch of salt though please. They will vary in real life.

Are the corner indicator lights RGB or single color, and can they be turned off or adjusted in any other way?
These are totally independent, non RGB. Regardless of the boards lighting state, they can be toggle on and off via Num, Caps and Scroll lock. You can solder any 2 pin led on here for whatever color you want. I will provide 3 white leds with every order however.

I have no real reason to own two keyboards.
That is definitely not gonna stop me from jumping on this. It looks PERFECT
Thank you thank you!!

Any chance we could see some samples of the colours ?
Will upload some renders. Colors will vary in real life, but I tried to match them as close as I could.
(https://i.imgur.com/KbIjo17.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/GmiZpqL.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/WcpslGU.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/N5qjWEj.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/OXqiGo1.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/mpisbze.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/7L8m69N.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/YtJk1lX.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ee5FP7t.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/vYJhISe.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/YLaShcP.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZsAarsa.png)
Parts
(https://i.imgur.com/LdnbExS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/iKuwNiA.png)

Do you have any more pictures of the board with different profiled keycaps? (dsa)
Here are some pics!
(https://i.imgur.com/1fMXzum.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/o9DdeOQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wXpzsWr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iedPR5y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9vOxJ6G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zE0FOgf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NyLuzZu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WmmKREO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KIP0u4A.jpg)

Finally, Group buy opens in less than 1 month, around November 10th or sooner! More info to come soon
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: eksuen on Thu, 19 October 2017, 11:12:43
I like the color options. Can't wait to see how these turn out.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dubious on Thu, 19 October 2017, 11:50:30
Scroll lock.

wuts that <_>
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 13:54:57
I like the color options. Can't wait to see how these turn out.
Thanks :) Hopefully as well as my other 4

Scroll lock.

wuts that <_>
Hey there dubious. Scroll Lock is a function that is intended to lock the cursor from moving, and instead allow the arrow keys to scroll the window contents. You can most likely find the key somewhere near your Pause and Print Screen buttons on a TKL+ sized keyboard. Similar to moving the side scroll bar up and down while keeping the cursor where it is. It has mostly gone out of use, but some applications (most notably EXCEL) still make use of the Scroll Lock function. It is one of the 3 function locks supported in most keyboards.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: mr scooty on Thu, 19 October 2017, 13:58:36
Any ideas on what we can expect for pricing?

Also will you have spare plates & pcbs for sale as well?

Looks stunning btw, gonna be an endgame 40 fasho
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 14:08:28
Any ideas on what we can expect for pricing?

Also will you have spare plates & pcbs for sale as well?

Looks stunning btw, gonna be an endgame 40 fasho
Hey bud, thank you! In the very beginning of the post I mentioned the price would fall between $250-$300. Now that I have a clearer picture, I'm thinking that it will be around $260-$270 with free shipping within the USA. That includes the case, plate, diffuser, pcb, hardware, cherry stabs, a cable and possibly other extras. Shipping for International orders will be calculated at checkout by USPS. Those prices range from $40-$70 and are not up to me to set. You will definitely be able to purchase extra components in my website during the GB! As for spare parts after the GB, it all depends on how many people join in. My profit margins are super slim, and they might not justify me buying spare parts to keep stocked.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Thu, 19 October 2017, 14:15:13
Any chance for a dark blue ano color. Or maybe a raw case option (no ano) so we can coat ourselves
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 14:17:03
Hey Tameone! Darker than the standard blue? This blue and the cyan blue are the two shades that my anodizer will be offering at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/WcpslGU.png)

I can probably keep some raw if MOQ is hit and exceeded by a healthy amount, since economies of scale play into paying for the anodizing as much as it pays for production of the parts. That way you can finish it off with your own custom ano/cerakote/powdercoat/nickelplate/whatever
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: mr scooty on Thu, 19 October 2017, 14:59:24
Any ideas on what we can expect for pricing?

Also will you have spare plates & pcbs for sale as well?

Looks stunning btw, gonna be an endgame 40 fasho
Hey bud, thank you! In the very beginning of the post I mentioned the price would fall between $250-$300. Now that I have a clearer picture, I'm thinking that it will be around $260-$270 with free shipping within the USA. That includes the case, plate, diffuser, pcb, hardware, cherry stabs, a cable and possibly other extras. Shipping for International orders will be calculated at checkout by USPS. Those prices range from $40-$70 and are not up to me to set. You will definitely be able to purchase extra components in my website during the GB! As for spare parts after the GB, it all depends on how many people join in. My profit margins are super slim, and they might not justify me buying spare parts to keep stocked.

Great to hear! Gonna have to pick up a couple plates/pcbs for this one
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: donut_sauce on Thu, 19 October 2017, 15:33:50
So excited for this! I’m already bracing myself for the inevitable sadness that will come when this thing sells out in seconds before I can fill out the form lol:D
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 15:35:22
So excited for this! I’m already bracing myself for the inevitable sadness that will come when this thing sells out in seconds before I can fill out the form lol:D
No form man!!! Anyone can join!

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 15:36:26
Great to hear! Gonna have to pick up a couple plates/pcbs for this one
Wonderful! Look forward to seeing you join in
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Thu, 19 October 2017, 16:34:58
Hey Tameone! Darker than the standard blue? This blue and the cyan blue are the two shades that my anodizer will be offering at the moment.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/WcpslGU.png)


I can probably keep some raw if MOQ is hit and exceeded by a healthy amount, since economies of scale play into paying for the anodizing as much as it pays for production of the parts. That way you can finish it off with your own custom ano/cerakote/powdercoat/nickelplate/whatever

Yes, like a dark navy blue.  But it's a difficult color to get right so it's infrequently offered.  I understand the economy of scale aspect, but I think I would definitely pick one up raw if possible.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: donut_sauce on Thu, 19 October 2017, 16:38:29
So excited for this! I’m already bracing myself for the inevitable sadness that will come when this thing sells out in seconds before I can fill out the form lol:D
No form man!!! Anyone can join!
I thought it was gonna be limited to 100?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 16:42:17
Yes, like a dark navy blue.  But it's a difficult color to get right so it's infrequently offered.  I understand the economy of scale aspect, but I think I would definitely pick one up raw if possible.
I see brother. I'll ask tonight about getting raw, albeit blasted finishes. Will update when I find out!

I thought it was gonna be limited to 100?
Honestly, I have no idea how many will sell, but I don't think it will hit 100. Very niche little board. If the numbers ramp up wildly, I might implement some raffle system with priority to those who have shown early interest! Also I did say "tentatively".
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: spiritjeon on Thu, 19 October 2017, 17:00:02
I hope GB starts quickly. I can't wait to see them on my desk. :D
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 17:03:34
Ty! 1st week of November :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Fausuto on Thu, 19 October 2017, 17:20:40
Damn, been lurking here for awhile. After seeing your most recent update with all the renders. Ive got to say you've put a lot of work into this. Might have to jump in for my first 40%. Its been looking clean!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 17:48:34
Damn, been lurking here for awhile. After seeing your most recent update with all the renders. Ive got to say you've put a lot of work into this. Might have to jump in for my first 40%. Its been looking clean!
Appreciate it a lot man. I for one can't stand the people who show off a product and within a week run a GB for it. Literally money is their only drive, such a shame because things need time and care. Im just trying to do it right and pace myself for everyones benefit. Hope to see you join in!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: donut_sauce on Thu, 19 October 2017, 18:49:59
Ty! 1st week of November :)

Any super rough 100% noncommittal estimates of how long the production time is gonna be on this?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 19 October 2017, 18:58:15
Should be done before January!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dubious on Thu, 19 October 2017, 19:10:59
I like the color options. Can't wait to see how these turn out.
Thanks :) Hopefully as well as my other 4

Scroll lock.

wuts that <_>
Hey there dubious. Scroll Lock is a function that is intended to lock the cursor from moving, and instead allow the arrow keys to scroll the window contents. You can most likely find the key somewhere near your Pause and Print Screen buttons on a TKL+ sized keyboard. Similar to moving the side scroll bar up and down while keeping the cursor where it is. It has mostly gone out of use, but some applications (most notably EXCEL) still make use of the Scroll Lock function. It is one of the 3 function locks supported in most keyboards.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/10Jpr9KSaXLchW/giphy.gif)

will we be able to order bottom/top housings in different colors (two-tone)?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: amnesia0287 on Thu, 19 October 2017, 19:22:51
Hey Tameone! Darker than the standard blue? This blue and the cyan blue are the two shades that my anodizer will be offering at the moment.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/WcpslGU.png)


I can probably keep some raw if MOQ is hit and exceeded by a healthy amount, since economies of scale play into paying for the anodizing as much as it pays for production of the parts. That way you can finish it off with your own custom ano/cerakote/powdercoat/nickelplate/whatever

I too would be very interested in a darker blue, something like this:

(https://static1.squarespace.com/static/515b8e65e4b0afec1216fa44/53bc0bc5e4b0b59a66e4d433/51b0a8d1e4b025ddcf30231a/1370532072904/IMG_0775.JPG)

There are several sets that would match up well with a navy including Yuri, Nautilus and Calm Depths and Dark Solarized.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dangboy on Fri, 20 October 2017, 00:58:22
Oh no. I can't decide what color I like.
Gonna pair this up with dev/tty with triumph mods.
.... maybe the green would look nice with the blue...
... but the cyan....
...and oh man that silver...
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Tre3Cycl3S on Fri, 20 October 2017, 02:01:03
Oh no. I can't decide what color I like.
Gonna pair this up with dev/tty with triumph mods.
.... maybe the green would look nice with the blue...
... but the cyan....
...and oh man that silver...

I feel you bro, I can't decide between all these pretty colours. Usually I default to black, but the purple, orange, and cyan looks really neat...
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: FearsomeCubedWarrior on Fri, 20 October 2017, 03:26:32
Orange? Or gold? Or rosegold? Damn, so many colors!
BTW, can we get real examples of colors before or during the GB? I remember my MD Planck fail with green: if only I knew it will be so out of advertized color...

(https://i.makeagif.com/media/6-07-2015/fA22x1.gif)

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Fri, 20 October 2017, 08:51:57
Damnit Koob, now I can't decide between pink and purple.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Robotical on Fri, 20 October 2017, 09:18:19
Damnit Koob, now I can't decide between pink and purple.

You totally want to go purple with a brass plate.  :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: lordgiblite on Fri, 20 October 2017, 14:29:57
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/NyLuzZu.jpg)



Finally, Group buy opens in less than 1 month, around November 10th or sooner! More info to come soon

Is this board the pink variety koob? I can't believe how flipping amazing it looks and can only imagine putting GMK Laser on that bad boy!

And my body is ready for November! BRING IT ON!!! (my wallet is not ready yet so thank you for letting us know ahead of time)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: dangboy on Sat, 21 October 2017, 02:17:52
Thankfully my birthday is November 3rd, so I get a free pass at treatin myself... albeit a week late.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: amnesia0287 on Sat, 21 October 2017, 02:46:59
Thankfully my birthday is November 3rd, so I get a free pass at treatin myself... albeit a week late.


HAAAAAAA I'm better than you by 1 entire day. I also get to treat myself though :P.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: regionfree on Sat, 21 October 2017, 05:35:40
Really excited for this. Would the first GB be limited in quantity/require a raffle to get in?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: bucket on Mon, 23 October 2017, 07:41:31
Really excited for this. Would the first GB be limited in quantity/require a raffle to get in?

Would agree greatly with the above and like to know the same thing, also the website that you linked to is just a notify via email website, might have misread something somewhere about what was on the site :)
Thanks

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: melonpan on Mon, 23 October 2017, 07:47:37
welp I know what I'm getting for my birthday (nov 10) >< this'll be my first kit so I imagine the work it takes to get it built but I'm excited to learn!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Azmodan on Mon, 23 October 2017, 07:52:34
I love the spherical vintage keycaps!

I will definitely get a set when the site/store is up! Are you going to offer them in more colors than the classic brown?
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: crcstig on Mon, 23 October 2017, 08:12:49
I love the spherical vintage keycaps!

I will definitely get a set when the site/store is up! Are you going to offer them in more colors than the classic brown?
That set of caps is SA Choclatier, a old set sold by massdrop i believe. From what I understand, he won't be selling caps, just the board and maybe sleeves and wrist rests as part of the group buy. If you want spherical caps like that, you can get SA profile caps from Pimp my Keyboard, Massdrop, here, and MechMarket on reddit. Maxkeys SA sets are some what different, but very similar, with less lead time, and cheaper. Just keep an eyey out.

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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Azmodan on Mon, 23 October 2017, 08:18:47
I love the spherical vintage keycaps!

I will definitely get a set when the site/store is up! Are you going to offer them in more colors than the classic brown?
That set of caps is SA Choclatier, a old set sold by massdrop i believe. From what I understand, he won't be selling caps, just the board and maybe sleeves and wrist rests as part of the group buy. If you want spherical caps like that, you can get SA profile caps from Pimp my Keyboard, and Maxkey. Maxkeys are some what different but very similar.

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Thanks for the useful info, much appreciated. I will definitely having a look to both sites, since I really want these type of keycaps and I have been straggling to find some.

 :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 24 October 2017, 16:09:04
Hi everyone, just sorting the last bits out. Will open GB very soon. Trying to get color samples from my anodizer has been a PITA and probably wont happen, website is opening soon, and will make a GH thread over in the GB section soon. Thank you!

Is this board the pink variety koob? I can't believe how flipping amazing it looks and can only imagine putting GMK Laser on that bad boy!
Haha thanks sir. That color is PURPLE, not PINK.

Thankfully my birthday is November 3rd, so I get a free pass at treatin myself... albeit a week late.
Happy early birthday :)

Really excited for this. Would the first GB be limited in quantity/require a raffle to get in?
Open to all, no raffle, no limited quantity!

Would agree greatly with the above and like to know the same thing, also the website that you linked to is just a notify via email website, might have misread something somewhere about what was on the site :)
Thanks
Website is almost done, and will be open soon for the GB

I love the spherical vintage keycaps!
I will definitely get a set when the site/store is up! Are you going to offer them in more colors than the classic brown?
Hi bud. As much as I would love to offer them, people are very picky about their switches and especially their keycaps, so I'm leaving that up to them. If you super truly want SA CHOCOLATIER, shoot me a PM and ill sell you them.

HAAAAAAA I'm better than you by 1 entire day. I also get to treat myself though :P.
Happy early bday as well!

welp I know what I'm getting for my birthday (nov 10) >< this'll be my first kit so I imagine the work it takes to get it built but I'm excited to learn!
Happy early bday too lol! Hope you like the kit! But remember, its a group buy, it wont be made for a few months






Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: lordgiblite on Tue, 24 October 2017, 16:32:41
I guess I must be color blind then Koob lol thanks for the clarification and hopefully thise anodized samples get easier for you!

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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 24 October 2017, 17:07:20
Hey i dont blame you haha. Colors change from cam to cam, edits and the time of day or lighting. Sometimes in person the cases look very mirrory, sometimes they look very crisp. Really weird, hard to pinpoint the right colors. But thanks for the good wishes!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: lordgiblite on Tue, 24 October 2017, 17:10:31
Well that makes me feel better! I just want a case to go with laser so I can justify both purchases.

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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 24 October 2017, 17:17:51
Oo thats going to be a tough one! Many colors it can match up with. Maybe pink?! Heres a pic of the purple with Skeletor. Its more of a lavender.
(https://i.imgur.com/prUnrbE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mAz3YIM.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: lordgiblite on Tue, 24 October 2017, 17:19:53
Dang man that's gorgeous! If you end up getting pink anodized samples you'll have to post it next to the lavender skeletor caps but as it stands that my case I'm going for :) Thanks!!

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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 24 October 2017, 17:26:06
Shoot i meant magenta not lavender. The case is more magenta than a deep purple. Its just that purple has so many shades. But with the GB so close it might be hard to get samples in. I'm trying though! The renders are close, and you are always welcome :)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: lordgiblite on Tue, 24 October 2017, 17:27:55
Magenta works for me lol and if you don't get samples in time it's all good, I can only imagine how hectic it's gotta be setting everything up!

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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Wed, 25 October 2017, 01:02:12
Thanks lord!
Groupbuy post has been made, awaiting approval.
Emails will be sent out when site is live as well. Thank you everyone for keeping up to date with this and supporting me.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Draic on Wed, 25 October 2017, 06:52:12
I saw that you changed QMK support from definite no go to getting ported. Could you elaborate? I am too invested into QMK to get a board without it, so this will decide my decision if I might pick it up or not. Thanks
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Wed, 25 October 2017, 08:23:37
I saw that you changed QMK support from definite no go to getting ported. Could you elaborate? I am too invested into QMK to get a board without it, so this will decide my decision if I might pick it up or not. Thanks
Hey! A very intelligent reddit community member named u/jetpacktuxedo messaged me about him being able to put QMK on my stock PCB. I sent him a PCB the other day and according to him, he's got QMK running on it, RGB and all. No physical modifications needed or anything. The thing is, firmware is firmware. The PCB was flashed with boot mapper firmware, but he knows how to flash QMK on the PCB.

As for my PCB not having a physical reset button, boot mapper PCBS allow you to put the PCB in flash mode if you power it on while holding a certain shift key or something. He knows more than i do, and hopefully he writes a wonderful tutorial on it all, which i will then post everywhere i can and credit him!

He has also ported QMK to a winkeyless bface pcb, an he wrote a tutorial on it online if you are hungry for extra info. Cheers!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: FearsomeCubedWarrior on Wed, 25 October 2017, 14:12:38
This just gets better and better with QMK support!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Wed, 25 October 2017, 18:06:42
QMK is good news.  I know you want this board to be accessible and didn't want people to have to rely on a difficult programming method, but now we have both!  I probably would have been able to survive with bootmapper, but I really think a board of this size needs QMK to be fully realized.  Punctuation implementation alone becomes much better due to tap dancing, etc.   :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Wed, 25 October 2017, 20:57:55
Im very glad this community can band together and realize these changes so well. We all have our talents and seeing others pitch in is very humbling! Im excited for QMK and seeing it up and running :]
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: eyedrop on Wed, 25 October 2017, 21:12:32
I'm a noob when it comes to QMK programming.  If would be great if you can host a repo sharing other member's layout.  I can probably learn when I read what others are doing.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: melonpan on Thu, 26 October 2017, 00:38:05
I was planning on getting the gold case and putting the DSA coffee house set on it but it seems the gb for it was cancelled since I got refunded today... now I have no clue what color case to get ><


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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: foxlive on Thu, 26 October 2017, 07:46:18
Just bought Budapest SA, with this case in rose gold, it could be amazing !!  :eek:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Thu, 26 October 2017, 08:53:29
this is interesting

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Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: SynkRz on Thu, 26 October 2017, 15:03:46
If the pcb is cherry stabilizer compatible, would it also work for zeal stabilizers like the one in here?https://zealpc.net/collections/switches/products/zealstabilizers (https://zealpc.net/collections/switches/products/zealstabilizers)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Thu, 26 October 2017, 18:44:55
I was planning on getting the gold case and putting the DSA coffee house set on it but it seems the gb for it was cancelled since I got refunded today... now I have no clue what color case to get ><
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Dang, sorry to hear that, maybe Chocolatier?!

If the pcb is cherry stabilizer compatible, would it also work for zeal stabilizers like the one in here?https://zealpc.net/collections/switches/products/zealstabilizers (https://zealpc.net/collections/switches/products/zealstabilizers)
Indeed they would!

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: stoic-lemon on Thu, 26 October 2017, 21:11:05
Really excited for this. Would the first GB be limited in quantity/require a raffle to get in?

Would agree greatly with the above and like to know the same thing, also the website that you linked to is just a notify via email website, might have misread something somewhere about what was on the site :)
Thanks


GB organiser has said everyone who wants I've will get one.

Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: kmba on Thu, 26 October 2017, 21:52:23
If the pcb is cherry stabilizer compatible, would it also work for zeal stabilizers like the one in here?https://zealpc.net/collections/switches/products/zealstabilizers (https://zealpc.net/collections/switches/products/zealstabilizers)

yes.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: OfTheWild on Mon, 30 October 2017, 15:53:16
this is a fantastic looking board! guess you can count me in for 1  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Mon, 30 October 2017, 19:52:15
this is a fantastic looking board! guess you can count me in for 1  :thumb:
Thanks a lot man!! Check out the GB thread if interested or go to www.pearlboards.com - Gb opens in 2 days haha!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Mon, 30 October 2017, 19:52:45
Got physical color samples in. Please note, these colors change drastically based on time of day, lighting camera pics, monitors and what not. Take them with a pinch of salt. And the actual Pearls could come out totally different unfortunately.
Pictured here are green, pink, blue, silver, orange and yellow (kinda gold)

(https://i.imgur.com/zOSF5Np.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/eFunGBe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qyEkXku.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: stoic-lemon on Tue, 31 October 2017, 08:40:29
I think Kinda Gold should be an official name a la Google Pixels.
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Tue, 31 October 2017, 23:10:02
I think Kinda Gold should be an official name a la Google Pixels.
Lmao next time bud! For now its yellow haha. GB is live at www.pearlboards.com - Thanks to all, and lets hope we can hit MOQ!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Yeols on Tue, 31 October 2017, 23:21:09
I want Pearl 60% asap
and take my money!
Title: Re: [IC] Pearl 40% - Premium, HHKB, weighted, rgb, usbc, cherry/alps
Post by: Koobaczech on Wed, 01 November 2017, 13:10:06
GB Thread is live.  Please continue discussion there:

     
[GB] Pearl 40%
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=92259.0

GLWGB! :thumb:

Mod Edit: added link to GB






I want Pearl 60% asap
and take my money!
Next on the list sir!! Granted Pearl 40% runs :p