[IC] Polaris V2 - Reference 60% Keyboard - Updated based on survey data

[DeMechanica]

Yessss, I’m so glad I’ll have one at GB price (assuming the sale style will be similar to the Vega one) to match my Vega.

[Jefff]

The back logo really breaks the

proven elegant, clean, and minimal exterior

[nathanchere]

Regarding soldered layouts, why the huge backwards step in split space layout support? looks like 3u + 1u + 3u which is easily the least used and least kit supported of all. Why not the 2.75 + 1.25. 2.25 of last time like most split space layouts and which supports a tonne more key sets?

No comments on this?

[beekey]

Will V2 PCB work in V1 case?

[santela]

Regarding soldered layouts, why the huge backwards step in split space layout support? looks like 3u + 1u + 3u which is easily the least used and least kit supported of all. Why not the 2.75 + 1.25. 2.25 of last time like most split space layouts and which supports a tonne more key sets?

No comments on this?

I'm gonna take a guess, gok and ai03 are friends and they are both trying to popularize the 3u spacebars. I think they are doing pretty well on that mission as well, most gmk GBs now come with 3u spacebar kits.

[heyimpanda]

Will V2 PCB work in V1 case?

Since v2 PCB requires a daughterboard, no

[origintypes]

I don't like the fact im forced into buying another pcb if I want to solder, please add an option for solderable or hotswap pcb

Agree with this, just give a fair option to buyers.

[sirieous]

I still have my Polaris in my collection. Such a lovely board. GLWIC and GB

[poyenc]

Waiting for this and the Vega!

[ai03]

Survey Results and Outcome

- Roughly 75% disliked the logo, so there will be units produced with no logo.
- Since there was still a sizable number of people who want the logoed units, we will be offering both logoed and non-logoed units this time around with a choice during purchase.

- After spending considerable time with negligible percentage differences, the backspace poll ended up at 55% preferring 2U and 45% preferring split backspace.
- Due to this, the hotswap PCB will be converted to 2U backspace default, but with spots available where users can solder on hotswap sockets to convert the PCB into split backspace layout. The required sockets will be included in the package.
- Note that due to the thin PCB, it is impossible to install 2U backspace stabilizers once the split backspace sockets are installed, so this is a one-way conversion. In theory the sockets can be de-soldered, but it carries so much risk that I won't recommend it (This is also the reason why we're not offering the "both-hotswap" style seen on other typical thickness PCBs.)

- With the amount of requests asking for solderable PCBs in base kit, we have decided to offer base kits in both hotswap PCB + fixed plate and solderable PCB + universal plate configurations.
- However, along with this change we will no longer be offering soldering addon kits.



Also to reply:

Regarding soldered layouts, why the huge backwards step in split space layout support? looks like 3u + 1u + 3u which is easily the least used and least kit supported of all. Why not the 2.75 + 1.25. 2.25 of last time like most split space layouts and which supports a tonne more key sets?

Because
- It overlays perfectly with 7U and yields far less acoustic implications than 2.75/2.25 due to far less excess cutouts, especially when 6.25 bottom row has been dropped altogether
- I like how it looks and personally prefer it over 2.75/2.25
- 2.25/2.75 places far more restrictions on internal case screw positions, making the case extremely fragile and unfit for use

You are free to create your own PCB and plate based on the to-be-provided PCB outline and plate data if wanting such options, but I cannot guarantee the board's performance or compatibility.

[Mecxs]

Survey Results and Outcome

- Roughly 75% disliked the logo, so there will be units produced with no logo.
- Since there was still a sizable number of people who want the logoed units, we will be offering both logoed and non-logoed units this time around with a choice during purchase.

- After spending considerable time with negligible percentage differences, the backspace poll ended up at 55% preferring 2U and 45% preferring split backspace.
- Due to this, the hotswap PCB will be converted to 2U backspace default, but with spots available where users can solder on hotswap sockets to convert the PCB into split backspace layout. The required sockets will be included in the package.
- Note that due to the thin PCB, it is impossible to install 2U backspace stabilizers once the split backspace sockets are installed, so this is a one-way conversion. In theory the sockets can be de-soldered, but it carries so much risk that I won't recommend it (This is also the reason why we're not offering the "both-hotswap" style seen on other typical thickness PCBs.)

- With the amount of requests asking for solderable PCBs in base kit, we have decided to offer base kits in both hotswap PCB + fixed plate and solderable PCB + universal plate configurations.
- However, along with this change we will no longer be offering soldering addon kits.

Love those changes! Very excited for this GB.

[MIGHTY CHICKEN]

blessed

[joshuarubin]

What does it mean that solderable add on kits won’t be offered? Can I not purchase a spare solderable pcb?

[santela]

All awesome changes! Basically got everything I wished for. Merry X-mas ai03!

[rookb]

Love the optional engraving change along with having a choice between hotswap and solder

[Tree_]

What does it mean that solderable add on kits won’t be offered? Can I not purchase a spare solderable pcb?

Obviously ai03 would need to confirm, but I'm reading this as potentially meaning the only way you can get a solderable PCB is with the solder base kit. And that the assumption is then that only hotswap PCB's will be offered as an addon.

[belerian]

I'm interested in the split-space option for the solderable PCB. The spacebars look like it's been split into 3U-1U-3U. Is this correct? Does anyone know if it's common for 2 3U keys to be offered normally in keycap kits?

[Puddsy]

I'm interested in the split-space option for the solderable PCB. The spacebars look like it's been split into 3U-1U-3U. Is this correct? Does anyone know if it's common for 2 3U keys to be offered normally in keycap kits?

it's becoming more common, but it's definitely not the most common type currently. i like 275/125/225, because im used to it, and because it also works with alice bars, but ai03 explained above that he prefers this way and frankly that's reason enough for me to be satisfied.

[conternecticus]

So excited for this!

Are color options set in place or is there a possibility to consider grey blue a color option? I think the color fits the style of the board.

[Vigrith]

I cannot possibly complain after such overwhelmingly positive and smart decisions by you guys but I'm a little sad 2u won the hotswap poll. Inventive solution provided however, so I'll likely just do that, I'm just lazy.

[lofi_network]

I cannot possibly complain after such overwhelmingly positive and smart decisions
…

I would just like to echo this sentiment, I really appreciate the thoughtful and smart decisions proposed for moving forward as they seem fair for all parties, whatever their preference.

One thing I think could be elaborated on further to clear up confusion would be the comment about no solder add on option - can we get some clarification on whether we’ll be able to order solder and/or hot swap extras so we can have spares?

[LMarci]

Good to see that you are listening to feedback

[nathanchere]

I'm interested in the split-space option for the solderable PCB. The spacebars look like it's been split into 3U-1U-3U. Is this correct? Does anyone know if it's common for 2 3U keys to be offered normally in keycap kits?

It's not totally unheard of but no, it's definitely not common. Of all the split space sets I own, the only one I have two 3u space bars for is SA Pulse and that's only because it included ones in two different colours. I looked over some of the sets I've bought which haven't arrived yet and it looks like a few KAT spacebar kits have dual 3u bars included but not all, and none of the GMK, SA or MT3 kits I'm still waiting on include dual 3u support. Split spacebar options area already limited enough as it is. While I can appreciate some of the reasons posted above for limiting split space support to dual 3u bars, it does rule me out of Polaris v2.

[nasp]

I'm interested in the split-space option for the solderable PCB. The spacebars look like it's been split into 3U-1U-3U. Is this correct? Does anyone know if it's common for 2 3U keys to be offered normally in keycap kits?

It's not totally unheard of but no, it's definitely not common. Of all the split space sets I own, the only one I have two 3u space bars for is SA Pulse and that's only because it included ones in two different colours. I looked over some of the sets I've bought which haven't arrived yet and it looks like a few KAT spacebar kits have dual 3u bars included but not all, and none of the GMK, SA or MT3 kits I'm still waiting on include dual 3u support. Split spacebar options area already limited enough as it is. While I can appreciate some of the reasons posted above for limiting split space support to dual 3u bars, it does rule me out of Polaris v2.

I think you are being a bit hyperbolic here. Just IMO

[kajahtaa]

Imagine

Looking at the simpleja R2 kitting before throwing a tanty

[nathanchere]

I'm interested in the split-space option for the solderable PCB. The spacebars look like it's been split into 3U-1U-3U. Is this correct? Does anyone know if it's common for 2 3U keys to be offered normally in keycap kits?

It's not totally unheard of but no, it's definitely not common. Of all the split space sets I own, the only one I have two 3u space bars for is SA Pulse and that's only because it included ones in two different colours. I looked over some of the sets I've bought which haven't arrived yet and it looks like a few KAT spacebar kits have dual 3u bars included but not all, and none of the GMK, SA or MT3 kits I'm still waiting on include dual 3u support. Split spacebar options area already limited enough as it is. While I can appreciate some of the reasons posted above for limiting split space support to dual 3u bars, it does rule me out of Polaris v2.

I think you are being a bit hyperbolic here. Just IMO

In that case I don't think you understand what 'hyperbolic' means.

[rossi94]

So hyped for this. Will build this as my first custom keyboard and a gift to my lovely wife.

Will the quantity be limited? (Will the group buy sell out in minutes?)

[Mecxs]

Will the quantity be limited? (Will the group buy sell out in minutes?)

The sales format (ie whether it will be limited or unlimited, etc) is still being decided. Ai03 is a veteran GB runner with experience running very large buys, but the hobby's also been growing in absolute leaps and bounds, so there's a chance it could really go either way I think.

[SpringWind]

I am very happy to see the IC of Polaris again!
I can't wait GB, I will definitely join.

[rossi94]

Will the quantity be limited? (Will the group buy sell out in minutes?)

The sales format (ie whether it will be limited or unlimited, etc) is still being decided. Ai03 is a veteran GB runner with experience running very large buys, but the hobby's also been growing in absolute leaps and bounds, so there's a chance it could really go either way I think.

We will see, let's hope shipping container, copper and substrate / film prices go back to normal. Maybe that will allow them to hit a price point close to the initial 265$ for V1.

[hover0423]

Will the quantity be limited? (Will the group buy sell out in minutes?)

The sales format (ie whether it will be limited or unlimited, etc) is still being decided. Ai03 is a veteran GB runner with experience running very large buys, but the hobby's also been growing in absolute leaps and bounds, so there's a chance it could really go either way I think.

We will see, let's hope shipping container, copper and substrate / film prices go back to normal. Maybe that will allow them to hit a price point close to the initial 265$ for V1.

There is db hole on the weight. Feels like that would add machining cost as well.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rossi94]

CNC rates in China are <10$ / h for 3 axis, that pocket maybe takes 20 sec longer to machine than without it.

[conternecticus]

Would love to see renders for each case color, and matching keycap sets while we're at it! GWLIC

[drinkmorewater]

Love the option to convert hotswap pcb to split backspace! Excited for this groupbuy.

[Delbs_]

Well, you got my attention... How are we looking as for pricing? 👀

[AutumnsFall]

Is there a reason that the solder PCB not support ANSI 6.25 bottom row anymore? It's nice to have split space but it surprised me that 6.25 bottom row did not make it to the solder PCB.

[the_useless_turtle]

Why is there a rose gold looking board in one of the renders? The color isn't listed anywhere, would love it if you actually made it an option though.

[1391401]

If it's the same yellow as polaris v1, the yellow in the render is very much misleading.  I suggest redoing the render with the right color to avoid drama.

[belerian]

About to buy 2 of Jellykey's Koi 3U spacebars just so I can do split space on this. Praying that the split space layout doesn't change afterwards LOL.

[donkey]

Compatibility Question: Will the V2 plates and/or PCBs be compatible with V1 case?

[syberghost]

I'm definitely in, and with logo.

Loud and proud baby.

[heyimpanda]

Compatibility Question: Will the V2 plates and/or PCBs be compatible with V1 case?

PCBs won't be since they'll likely require a daughterboard.

I wouldn't expect the plates to either because those have to be changed to account for the screwless design, but the overall tab sizes might remain the same?

[Sandpaper]

Guess I'll make this my first post just to say I'm definitely in!

[ryulinho]

I'm not of a fan of the name of the keyboard on the back. I do like the option to keep the logo on the bottom.

[thebreadsaver]

will keep a very close eye on this one. very interested

[marici22]

I'd much rather see a brass badge instead of engraved one.

[oilpapers]

What does it mean that solderable add on kits won’t be offered? Can I not purchase a spare solderable pcb?

Obviously ai03 would need to confirm, but I'm reading this as potentially meaning the only way you can get a solderable PCB is with the solder base kit. And that the assumption is then that only hotswap PCB's will be offered as an addon.

solder people ruin it again, 🙄default hotswap with optional solder extra was way better

[Keeblet_257]

What does it mean that solderable add on kits won’t be offered? Can I not purchase a spare solderable pcb?

Obviously ai03 would need to confirm, but I'm reading this as potentially meaning the only way you can get a solderable PCB is with the solder base kit. And that the assumption is then that only hotswap PCB's will be offered as an addon.

solder people ruin it again, 🙄default hotswap with optional solder extra was way better

just milllmax your PCB or add 10-20$ more for the hotswap btw it is not wayyyyyy better.
let me tell you one thing it isnt waaaaayyyyy better.
Most hs boards dont have support for many layouts without having to make some switches north facing. I'd bet that you probably wont change your switches on a regular basis and only took advantage of it druing the first assembly.
imagine flaming solder people in this hobby

[Jewpac Shakur]

Can't wait for this one. Hope it won't be too expensive and enough units will be produced, I won't be able to fight people over this board with my internet connection

[fullwater]

Is there a possibility of adding 6.25u spacebar layout with the classic 1.25u modifiers on the bottom row?