Really think you should switch fabs. I'm also a bit worried about the finishing options for the case seeing as the master prototype did not have a finish, as the tooling marks are still visible. I highly suggest that you hold off on the buy.
Hey Remsky, just quickly address your concern, the prototype was ordered unfinished as intended for judging tolerance. "Machining marks" are absolutely normal and will be easily removed by sandblasting prior to anodizing. The anodizing will be done locally in a factory near my workplace to better control the finish, and not by the machining factory.
As to Quantrik's raised point, I really do appreciate you taking the time to post what you did.
I think a couple VERY enthusiastic members can attest when messaging me on whether they can purchase both designs during the GB, I gave them the same advise, that I hope they are cautiously optimistic, as I am a first time GB runner, that if they really like the design, to just join for one of the boards, and have a feel for how the GB is run, how the case feels in use, the quality of the finish and how any issues are handled.
Running 15 units for each design was so that I will be able to handle the QC & logistics for my first buy, while keeping the cost somewhat in check. Should **** hit the fan, I am financially stable enough to simply refund all participants. I never hid the fact that the price was going to be high for this GB, and throughout this IC and in the forms, I noted the $450-$500 price tag, and if people are still interested in joining.
I have been more then transparent throughout this IC, answering any questions and concerns people may have while giving (maybe too much) detail on how the project is going, and what will happen next as we approach closer the group buy. This will not change after collecting the money.
And to Pudssy's point, I have cost in buffers for any issues that may arise as any responsible GB runner should.
Anyway, The GB will proceed, all the pieces are in place for production. I'm sure the community is well aware that the price is very high for a 60% board without a PCB included. These designs will be run now or never, as even if a factory that can achieve the same quality at a much lower pricing can be found, additional prototyping will need to be done at the new factory, and all the costs up to this point will be costed in to the final GB cost. Not going through with this GB doe not mean that the costs up to this point magically disappears.
Hopefully the concerns on pricing have been highlighted for all to seriously consider, and we can move on. The pricing will remain, and members can decide for themselves if they would like to participate in this group buy. The MOQ is 30 units total, and failing this MOQ, the GB will be cancelled.
