Author Topic: [IC] Retro + Innovation = ALF X3 Renova GB in 3 hours! (Read 25655 times)

zF_ScrambledEggz · « **on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:19:58 »

Hi guys, ALF will be teaming up with zFrontier to bring you the ALF X3 Renova, a modern custom keyboard with a retro take.

Thick bezels, hefty blocks, oversized - this is the ALF X3. The blocky design is reminiscent of the classy and sexy look of the old keyboards from the past.

Features:
1. Seamless design: the bottom housing is covered by the upper housing, no seams to be found on 4 sides;

2. Two-piece top housing: the top housing features a two-piece design to introduce more colors and bring more flair to the classy look

3. Low-key side brass inserts

4. Multi-hex bottom weigh: hexagons are the most intriguing shape of the nature. Honeycombs, Tortoiseshell, Snowflakes, Cells, they all share this shape. And the straight line is the link to all hexagons, to all natural worlds. It is connecting everything just like the X3 is connecting Retro design to a modern keyboard.

5. K-mini layout: 65% main body + 10 macros to the left

6. RGB light strip

Proto:

*This is the prototype of the old version, the final version will have the indicator lights on the top right removed and replaced by 'RENOVA"

Please tell us what you think and I hope you will enjoy this board!

(P.S. ALF X2 are sitting in our warehouse and they will be ready to go once the remaining plates arrive on this Sunday. Shout out to fishpod who's been helping us posting for the X2)

fcoury · « **Reply #1 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:25:21 »

This looks astonishing, I am totally in. Is there a ballpark price yet?

AMongoose · « **Reply #2 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:27:27 »

Looks pretty good.

Renova is a toilet paper brand might want to reconsider engraving that.

Undrcontrl · « **Reply #3 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:32:38 »

I could dig this board, depending on cost!

KaosJ · « **Reply #4 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32 »

Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example

gt1989 · « **Reply #5 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:02:40 »

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32

Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

That's what I was thinking as well, I would definitely be more interested in something similar to this.

Sshimosawa · « **Reply #6 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:05:44 »

This is fantastic. So in.

idlemao · « **Reply #7 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:16:43 »

Personally love the oversized part. That really gives the board its character and retro/vintage look to me. This is what I've been waiting for. Just hoping the cost isn't too too high.

oh_chesteroni · « **Reply #8 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:32:39 »

Quote from: gt1989 on Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:02:40

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32
Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

That's what I was thinking as well, I would definitely be more interested in something similar to this.

While I agree the top is slightly too oversized, I also think the render made by KaosJ features a top bezel that is too small. How about a compromise? Something in between the OP renders and KaosJ render for the top bezel?

Sent from my SM-G900W8 using Tapatalk

Drclick · « **Reply #9 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:39:24 »

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32

Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

That looks better!

M · « **Reply #10 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:55:57 »

As someone who missed out on the X2, I'm excited. I just hope it doesn't end up out of my price range

edit: imo the indicator lights should stay

Puddsy · « **Reply #11 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 12:10:16 »

a lot going on but i kinda like it

YisSerL · « **Reply #12 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 12:30:56 »

If you can reconsider keeping the indicator light, that would be great.

I like the indicator light than the word Renova in its place.

//gainsborough · « **Reply #13 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 13:40:15 »

This design is super cool! Any chance of alps support?

idlemao · « **Reply #14 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 13:41:54 »

Quote from: //gainsborough on Wed, 04 April 2018, 13:40:15

This design is super cool! Any chance of alps support?

for asking this

Unforgivable · « **Reply #15 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:21:21 »

Quote from: zF_ScrambledEggz on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:19:58

Hi guys, ALF will be teaming up with zFrontier to bring you the ALF X3 Renova, a modern custom keyboard with a retro take.

Thick bezels, hefty blocks, oversized - this is the ALF X3. The blocky design is reminiscent of the classy and sexy look of the old keyboards from the past.

Features:
1. Seamless design: the bottom housing is covered by the upper housing, no seams to be found on 4 sides;

2. Two-piece top housing: the top housing features a two-piece design to introduce more colors and bring more flair to the classy look

3. Low-key side brass inserts

4. Multi-hex bottom weigh: hexagons are the most intriguing shape of the nature. Honeycombs, Tortoiseshell, Snowflakes, Cells, they all share this shape. And the straight line is the link to all hexagons, to all natural worlds. It is connecting everything just like the X3 is connecting Retro design to a modern keyboard.

5. K-mini layout: 65% main body + 10 macros to the left

6. RGB light strip

(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)

Proto:
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)

*This is the prototype of the old version, the final version will have the indicator lights on the top right removed and replaced by 'RENOVA"

Please tell us what you think and I hope you will enjoy this board!

(P.S. ALF X2 are sitting in our warehouse and they will be ready to go once the remaining plates arrive on this Sunday. Shout out to fishpod who's been helping us posting for the X2)

I like it! Count me in, but PLEASE tell ALF to not put a RENOVA logo on the board. I like the simple little led circles, it makes it look classy. And someone else said RENOVA is a toilet paper brand!

Completely my opinion of course.

Pwner · « **Reply #16 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:33:54 »

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32

Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

Make your own board.

odd · « **Reply #17 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:58:00 »

I love this design. I liked the X2 but I have too many 60% boards so I didn't pick one up. Now 65% boards with left hand Macro keys I need more of so I am buying one of these no doubt.

KaosJ · « **Reply #18 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 15:44:24 »

Quote from: Pwner on Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:33:54

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32
Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

Make your own board.

Tree_ · « **Reply #19 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 16:34:23 »

I like the large bezel, I do not like that the indicator lights are being replaced with a Renova engraving.

crtexcnndrm99 · « **Reply #20 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 16:52:42 »

Love the layout and retro theme. Only recommendation is that overall the bevels/chamfers are more rounded... retro plastic cases tended to have softer edges than this I thought

MajorKoos · « **Reply #21 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 17:06:08 »

Very nice.
That thick top bezel is sublime.

ihalatch · « **Reply #22 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 20:51:17 »

Quote from: Drclick on Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:39:24

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32
Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

That looks better!

+1

ptiede · « **Reply #23 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 21:11:09 »

I'm personally a fan of the larger bezel on top

tireddoctor · « **Reply #24 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 21:23:34 »

I would kill for this.

mgsickler · « **Reply #25 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 21:29:45 »

Too many cool looking boards coming out. I really really like the look of this.

donut_sauce · « **Reply #26 on:** Wed, 04 April 2018, 21:41:27 »

This looks great. I would also prefer it without the Renova logo.

ihalatch · « **Reply #27 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 00:16:25 »

This big ass bezel and nothing on it?

Peiweisgreat · « **Reply #28 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 00:57:52 »

YES! I've been waiting for this, since I saw this on IG. Can we get a picture of what the "Renova" nameplate is going to look like? I enjoyed the look of the indicator lights, but I guess I can live without it.

ihalatch · « **Reply #29 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 02:02:44 »

I'd prefer to have indicator lights.

gilmoregrills · « **Reply #30 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 03:25:24 »

I also would really prefer the indicator lights, but might get this anyway, it looks sweet!

Would there potentially be an option to have the top sections match? The shape of the case is pretty nuts already so it would be nice to have a more understated option

hansichen · « **Reply #31 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 05:27:26 »

A one piece top and no hole in the blocker between the F keys and the alphas would look way better imo. The layout isn't that bad but the design is not really appealing at the moment

boxfrommoon · « **Reply #32 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 05:54:34 »

Looks super clean! And as most of us have said I too would prefer to have indicator lights instead of the logo. And the top bezel looks great!

online · « **Reply #33 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 06:06:54 »

Is this support other layout? Split Spacebar?

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

pr0ximity · « **Reply #34 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 06:14:06 »

I've already got a Z-150

But seriously very cool design, wasn't expecting to like it as much as I do. Think the weight is a little too busy, but the rest is excellent.

vewy_nice · « **Reply #35 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 09:45:22 »

That weight/bottom plate look expensive

But this is an awesome looking board.
The insert color combinations are awesome!

peggisan · « **Reply #36 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 16:11:37 »

Looks amazing. Instabuy if it isn't too expensive

cucgach · « **Reply #37 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 20:15:30 »

Please re-consider engraving Renova

69420swag · « **Reply #38 on:** Thu, 05 April 2018, 23:02:25 »

Quote from: cucgach on Thu, 05 April 2018, 20:15:30

Please re-consider engraving Renova

+1

objex · « **Reply #39 on:** Fri, 06 April 2018, 04:29:07 »

Interested in this, and I also prefer the original indicator lights design rather than the name engraving. The subtle logo on the left part of the top bezel is ok though, I don't mind that. Ideally, I would remove all visible branding, but that's ok. I like the weights but would like them better in stainless steel or something silver or black. Overall, this is a really cool design!

floristfran · « **Reply #40 on:** Fri, 06 April 2018, 05:58:22 »

perfect layout

interested af

Starston3 · « **Reply #41 on:** Fri, 06 April 2018, 06:53:09 »

long_qt_pie · « **Reply #42 on:** Fri, 06 April 2018, 12:27:18 »

I loved the grey with orange insert

peggisan · « **Reply #43 on:** Fri, 06 April 2018, 12:36:49 »

Will the pcb use USB C, micro, or mini? Also will it have the built in USB hub like ALFx2 and will the plate support switchtop opening??

M · « **Reply #44 on:** Fri, 06 April 2018, 23:33:39 »

Quote from: peggisan on Fri, 06 April 2018, 12:36:49

Will the pcb use USB C, micro, or mini? Also will it have the built in USB hub like ALFx2 and will the plate support switchtop opening??

Curious about these things as well

Photoelectric · « **Reply #45 on:** Sat, 07 April 2018, 00:16:19 »

I like this board, including the large bezels. As others mentioned, I’d keep the indicator LEDs as in the renders and skip the logo that’s supposed to replace them. The indicators are part of the charm—there’s already another logo on the left.

Puddsy · « **Reply #46 on:** Sat, 07 April 2018, 00:22:35 »

Quote from: Photoelectric on Sat, 07 April 2018, 00:16:19

I like this board, including the large bezels. As others mentioned, I’d keep the indicator LEDs as in the renders and skip the logo that’s supposed to replace them. The indicators are part of the charm—there’s already another logo on the left.

agree with photoe

lemur · « **Reply #47 on:** Sat, 07 April 2018, 02:16:59 »

another vote that indicator lights stay...

when i saw 'retro' inspired.. and saw indicator lights i thought 'yep! perfect!' ------then scroll down and see theyre going to be removed and replaced with a logo.... and thought that it would lose the thing that I thought captured the 'retro' feel most at first glance.

logos *were* a big thing in the old boards.. but so were big banks of indicator lights.

nathanchere · « **Reply #48 on:** Sat, 07 April 2018, 07:54:23 »

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32

Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

The original design is way too chunky and defeats the purpose of a minimal keyboard for me.
Your edit is excellent though. Would be tempted to buy if the price was right.

KaosJ · « **Reply #49 on:** Sat, 07 April 2018, 08:01:54 »

Quote from: nathanchere on Sat, 07 April 2018, 07:54:23

Quote from: KaosJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:40:32
Wow...

i do like a lot the weight shape, the separated top (internal) and how the bevels are rounded.
Just the oversized part at the top is not appealing to me, it could be smaller (like the bottom part)

Example
Show Image

The original design is way too chunky and defeats the purpose of a minimal keyboard for me.
Your edit is excellent though. Would be tempted to buy if the price was right.

Well thanks. I doubt that would ever happen since they have the sample already which means the design will most likely not change.
I would kinda like even something in the middle between my edit and their prototype, i just feel the current one is a bit too large.
Also agree with some other people who said indicators should stay and not be replaced by the engrave, the indicators on their sample looks good.

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Author Topic: [IC] Retro + Innovation = ALF X3 Renova GB in 3 hours! (Read 25655 times)