Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:17:13
-
GB Thread for updates (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=114903.0)
Hi everyone. This project has garnered a lot more attention than I initially expected so welcome to the revamped and cleaned-up IC.
This is the interest-check for my cost-no-object 88% F13 TKL keyboard, Cloudline.
This board's theme was sparked by feedback from my partner Shannie, so I'd like to give her credit for helping steer the board in the direction that resulted in what it is today. In addition, she also contributed wonderful cloud & bird illustration for the project that I used in the internal and outer weight engravings.
The inspiration for the side-profile and theme comes from the diffraction of sunlight at the edge of a cloud - AKA the silver lining (thank you Shannie for catching the resemblance).
(https://rrcra.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/silver-lining_91202168_s.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/Kyy834W.png) (https://images.fineartamerica.com/images/artworkimages/mediumlarge/1/moon-rise-with-a-silver-lining-kristen-grogan.jpg)
(not my image, please no sue)
Details
- Layout: F13 TKL (88%) WKL / Full
- Mounting: Large 'gummy-worm' O-ring / Top Mount w/ Relief
- Materials: 6063 Aluminum, Brass, Stainless Steel
- Weight (approx.): 6.2 lbs, unbuilt - Large brass bottom weight, internal polished SS weight frame
- Typing Angle: 6.4 degrees
- Front Height: ~17.9mm board height, 22.4mm EKH
- Plates: FR4 Full, Aluminum Half / Full (DEFAULT PLATE), Polypropylene Half / Full, Polycarbonate Full, POM Half
- Price: $585 USD @ Cannon Keys (other regions may vary)
- Units: 650 standard boards
Group Buy: October 9th - October 16th, 2021
Pricing may change with exchange rates over the coming weeks, but only slightly if at all.
As GB date approaches, final times and pricing will be confirmed directly from your local vendors (see your vendor for confirmation).
US: CannonKeys (http://"https://cannonkeys.com/"), 260 spots, $585 USD
(https://docs.cannonkeys.com/raffle-queue)
- October 9th, 10:00 AM Eastern for 20 brass spots via Hype checkout (OPEN WORLDWIDE), $800 USD
- October 9th, 11:00 AM Eastern for 260 standard spots via Hype checkout (REGION LOCKED), $585 USD
CA: Deskhero (http://"https://www.deskhero.ca/"), 65 spots,
- October 9th, 11:00 AM Eastern for 65 standard spots (Region Locked), TBD CAD
EU: mykeyboard.eu (http://"https://mykeyboard.eu/"), 65 spots,
- October 9th, 17:00 CEST for 65 standard spots (Region Locked)
UK: Proto[typist] (http://"https://prototypist.net/"), 25 spots, £519 inc VAT, £432.5 ex VAT
- October 9th, 16:00 BST for 25 standard spots (Region Locked)
AS: ILUMKB (http://"https://ilumkb.com/"), 170 spots,
- Oct 9th, 16:00 CST (China) for 75 standard spots via ILUMKB CN site (Region Locked)
- Oct 10th, 16:00 SGT for 95 standard spots via ILUMKB site (REGION LOCKED FOR 10 MIN)
AU: Daily Clack (http://"https://dailyclack.com/"), 65 spots,
- October 10th, 11:00 AM AEDT for 65 standard spots (Region Locked)
(https://i.imgur.com/iopcYxM.png)
Links
Feel free to join Discord to ask questions, catch small and casual updates, or learn about other projects! Check out Instagram for photo posts and updates.
Discord: https://discord.gg/XPEFcn8
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjw_kb/
Project Timeline / Status
Currently I am waiting to hear back from some vendors on the next step to sourcing rubber feet with more surface area contact, to prevent the heavy board from sinking into the deskmat. Also I'm experimenting with different relief cuts in the top-mount configuration.
- Initial IC (Nov 16 2020)
- Prototype 1 (Dec 16 2020)
- Prototype 2 (Apr 23 2021)
- Any Necessary Changes
- Final Samples
- Group Buy Completed
Colors
There will be four (4) standard colors in group buy.
- Overcast Silver (Silver)
- Serene Blue (Navy)
- Dystopia Red (Burgundy)
- Moonlight Gray (Dark Gray / Off-Black)
And an undisclosed, limited number of full brass-topped units.
Design / Case Renders
(https://i.imgur.com/stvvhKd.png) (https://i.imgur.com/FaxM5o9.png) (https://i.imgur.com/zrYZPKY.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Mz6AKxm.png) (https://i.imgur.com/yYCL56Z.png) (https://i.imgur.com/Y4jjMs3.png)
Over the top - the devil is in the details. The side profile peeks from underneath to create a "silver lining" effect.
(https://i.imgur.com/6MlTJ5l.png) (https://i.imgur.com/JjBWsCP.png) (https://i.imgur.com/nAEfaJF.png)
Two options for mounting - a top-mount with relief cuts to improve flexibility and decrease stiffness, or a large o-ring gummy-worm gasket mount.
(https://i.imgur.com/FP6jqh5.png) (https://i.imgur.com/FSZXD4k.png) (https://i.imgur.com/fyvncst.png)
A laser-engraved, stainless-steel internal frame cleans up the cable routing design, as well as adds beautiful hidden artwork to the board.
(https://i.imgur.com/tWH26fH.png) (https://i.imgur.com/AKSXZ99.png) (https://i.imgur.com/f7kYQgN.png)
Prototype Photos
(https://i.imgur.com/STeMuVp.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/BdCRJB2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ByGF8mX.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/p7781lc.jpg)
some random snaps from the build:
(https://i.imgur.com/rnKx4Zm.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/USuib5g.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Mepq8bU.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/dzSGE3C.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RLqGajy.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/DUR1ufb.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/eNL2CZn.png)
With Caps
GMK Apollo by octix
(https://i.imgur.com/LP7zYcK.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/fg2n5Fp.png) (https://i.imgur.com/AqdeRtn.png) (https://i.imgur.com/ZJNzOvU.png)
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can you remove or change the engraving over the arrow keys?
It might change, but nothing planned or set in stone. Not everyone will be happy with the engraving no matter what I make it - so in the end, it'll be what I want it to be. I would not remove the engraving, since I'd like the board to be differentiable from a top-down view. Luckily, there are dozens of great F13 TKLs in IC to choose from and there will always be one to fit people's preferences!
What PCB does this use? Layout options?
I designed this with Hineybush's H88 in mind, so it should be compatible with any PCB that is compatible with the Jane V2 CE - included in the kit is planned to be a compatible PCB designed in-house by Upas @ Cannon Keys. :) Here is the layout that the PCB is slated to support:
(https://i.imgur.com/brBl2zu.png)
Will hotswap PCB be offered as an option?
No, your best bet is mill-maxing a PCB.
OMG, THE FANCY INTERNALS ARE A WASTE OF MONEY?
Having a flat piece extend from the main weight to cover the cable routing would use a much larger metal blank piece than separating it into two - that is why there is a two-piece weight. I like the look of polished SS, and decided it was worth the slight increase in price. Keep in mind this SS piece is literally a FLAT, slightly thicker plate - there's no complex CNC to it. And for what it's worth, the cost to engrave the internals is a happy meal - I've gotten quotes for both laser-engraved and plain internals, and the difference is really not something to worry about.
This looks like it is going to be extremely expensive. Are my fears true?
I don't think I can accurately estimate group buy price with so many variables at hand (exchange rates in the coming months, machining costs, unit count, vendors, etc). It will be expensive. $tbd. It probably won't be anything you haven't seen before.
What colors are you running?
All the standard colors are going to have a contrasting silver bottom and brass bottom weight. Top colors are OVERCAST SILVER, SERENE BLUE, DYSTOPIA RED, and MOONLIGHT GRAY.
Special edition?
There is a very limited brass-topped variant that will be offered exclusively through Cannon Keys.
What format will the GB be?
Each vendor will be using their own format.
When is the group buy happening?
Not entirely sure yet, but optimistically late Q2 - early Q3 2021.
How many units? Can you make it unlimited?
650 standard boards distributed using past ratio estimates among vendors.
When will the boards ship?
As usual, no one really knows... there can be delays, etc. I'd give it the standard GB estimate, 6-12 months.
Media
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:17:53
Current IC Standing
- Initial IC
- Prototype #1
- Prototype #2
- Final Adjustments, Minor changes, etc.
- Pre-production prototypes ordered
- ...
- Finalize Group Buy Details (Unit Ct, Pricing, Date)
- Group Buy Start
UPDATE (December 16, 2020): Prototype 1
(https://i.imgur.com/ByGF8mX.jpg)
Leaf springs are stiff in aluminum. But they work just fine actually.
UPDATE (January 27, 2021): Updated Engraving
(https://i.imgur.com/3VnLJ9E.png)
UPDATE (April 23, 2021): Prototype 2
Prototype 2 has arrived. So far with some quick inspection, some worries I had of the keyboard's functionality are alleviated. I don't think there will be many issues with the build, but the only way to really find out is to build it! Going to be building this tonight around ~9 PM PDT with a possible stream for any questions that people may want to ask live. Short notice, but the sooner I can build and verify it the quicker we can move with the group buy. I will probably ping Discord (https://discord.gg/XPEFcn8) for a live update of when that happens, so feel free to join if you'd like to follow closely (Geekhack alone will have all important updates though, so if not it's totally dandy).
Since some case concerns have been addressed, I think the sentiment is pretty good in this project making it to group buy. I'd like to really thank the team of vendors that will be supporting this project!
Vendors:
- CannonKeys
- Deskhero
- mykeyboard.eu
- Proto[Typist]
- ILUMKB
- Daily Clack
More details, such as groupbuy date, pricing, unit count, will be confirmed later!
For the build, I will try to upload a separate VOD with the typing sounds and whatnot.
(https://i.imgur.com/p7781lc.jpg)
Cloudline Prototype Build Stream, Assembly, Summary
I think the stream was an unexpected success last night, the interest and turnout surprised me. If you showed up thanks for supporting. Unfortunately chat was not working on the overlay properly, so I wasn't able to download a very useful / interesting VOD. If you watch the VOD directly on twitch, you'll be able to see questions / comments in the chat. I've re-recorded a summary video of how the board is assembled, as well as typing tests in both top-(flex)-mount and gummy worm o-ring mount.
Here is a link to the full build stream VOD(s), along with chat questions and whatnot.
https://www.twitch.tv/jjw_kb/videos
Major Update: Yet Another Engraving Iteration... (but it's final!)
Scroll to the bottom for a TL;DR...
I've spent many hours putting together an engraving that I felt completely satisfied with for Cloudline. Now that I've finally found something that I think fits the theme and looks the way I want it, I'm happy to present the FINAL engraving for Cloudline. I want to recap the different iterations of engravings that this board has gone through. Of course, I don't want this to come off as me being fickle or undecisive - IMO, it's normal for designs to change, improve (subjective), and go through stages to get to their final form. This is just a log to share the thought process that went into each stage.
Engraving 0
The very first iteration of the engraving was a logo. I decided I didn't want to establish myself as a brand, so that was scrapped quickly. It was obvious that most people would prefer for their keyboards to not be branded with a large, visible-in-use designer logo as well (except for some goated boards...). I ordered my first prototype with this engraving.
(https://i.imgur.com/cAKXDp8.png)
Issues:
- It was a 'brand logo'
Engraving 1
It made more sense for the keyboard to be engraved with something related to the board itself, rather than the designer. I didn't want to leave the top-case plain, as I wanted the board to be easily identifiable from any angle. A blank top-case would look like any other blank-top TKL. The first cloud-related engraving on the top case was a simple cloud with an underline, centered above the arrow keys.
(https://i.imgur.com/pMewEOv.png)
It was at this stage where I looked at my keyboard on my desk, and had a really strong vision of a clean rectangular engraving, looking like a long window with clouds spanning the length of it.
Issues:
- Instead of the 'elegant and minimal' look I was aiming for, it felt 'wimpy and underwhelming'.
- I'll be honest - this engraving is still good to me. It probably could have worked if I tweaked with the thickness of the stroke.
Engraving 2
After reflecting on the overall board design, I decided I wanted something a bit more detailed and eye-catching. After all, the internal aesthetic of the board definitely had a lot of thought put into it. So I started working on drafts for a potential 'long engraving'. It was a struggle to gauge the amount of detail that would work on an engraving, especially since the physical scale of designing on a computer screen is a lot different from actually seeing it to-size in person. I ended up feeling satisfied with one of the WORST engraving iterations I've yet had. I'm almost embarrassed to look back on this one...
(https://i.imgur.com/eyBj26C.png)
A major issue I ran into is that in order to reduce the artificial symmetry of the logo, I created empty spaces in the sky that I felt needed to be filled with a moon and stars. I got carried away, and I'm not afraid to admit it. I lost sight of my original idea, and the result strayed further and further from being a clean, elegant rectangle with clouds.
Issues:
- It was weird.
- It felt like a 'mess of lines', disorganized and unsure in what it was trying to represent.
- Way too detailed for an engraving of its size.
- Shannie suggested I work on reducing the 'symmetry' of the logo - symmetry in clouds is unnatural and artificial.
Engraving 3
After a few weeks, I looked at Engraving 2 and realized it was a bit too weird, a bit too abstract. I tried to move a bit closer towards my original idea of a 'rectangle' and decided to close out the edges. I thickened the stroke width, simplified some details in the clouds, and came up with this. This is the current engraving that we have coming on the pre-production prototypes.
(https://i.imgur.com/8EMfpok.png)
Issues:
- It's 'cute', mainly due to the style of moon and stars.
- The moon and stars strayed from the overall theme.
- It felt a little 'unclean' compared to the rest of the board.
Engraving 4 (The Final Iteration)
Somewhere inside my head, a tiny voice was whispering that it didn't really fit the theme. As the days went on, that voice became louder, urging me to sit down and work on more designs until I had something that I was completely happy with. I decided I'd save the moon and stars for another idea later down the road. Struggling to find out what I was going for, I really tried to focus on my original motive for redesigning the first engraving - I wanted something a bit more detailed, but not 'dirty'. It became obvious what the issues with Engraving 3 were. I wanted to clean up the corners, reduce the cuteness of the engraving, and tie it closer into the overall theme and surrounding design cues of the board.
I made a few iterations that I felt happy with, but thankfully Shannie (my partner and collaborator on this project) made me take a step back and look at my design again... her response: "bc the clouds you have rn feel a bit clearly blocked off, it still looks good but it is like very symmetrical when clouds normally are not" - it was not the response I was hoping for, but the response I needed.
For those wanting a clean, blank top - this update probably won't be what you're looking for. But I'm excited to share this final engraving, as I now can confidently say I've found the one that clicked for me. I'd like to thank Shannie again for helping on this project, her critique and advice were invaluable to putting this engraving together (and the birds! She drew the birds!). Without her, this board would definitely not be the end-product it is today.
(https://i.imgur.com/5gXtOb0.png)
The engraving is a rectangle, as I had originally anticipated. But Shannie's suggestions to make the engraving assymmetrical forced me to come up with a different, more dynamic composition for the clouds. As things neared completion, the idea to 'open' up the rectangle where it meets the sky came to mind. I used Shannie's bird silhouette illustrations at the border, showing them flying free and 'escaping' the box that borders the engraving, figuratively breaking free of the engraving (over the sky). I'm happy with this one. It's cleaner than the previous iterations, it captures the original vision I had, and remains true to the original theme of Cloudline (and Shannie likes it - very important!).
Here's a full image of the top of the board. Keep in mind, it's hard to judge an engraving from renders due to scale - in making this, I would constantly render sized to match a keycap I had in hand, in order to gauge the thickness of the strokes.
(https://i.imgur.com/dJ1B9Js.png)
Upcoming pre-production prototypes will have Engraving 3, but I've requested for some sheets to be engraved with the final engraving to give myself a physical reference.
(https://i.imgur.com/OesNgZN.png)
I will be taking some time to update the images in the IC to reflect the latest changes.
August 6th, 2021: Important note regarding upcoming prototypes
Well, the moment is coming soon ... so I think now is a pretty good time to stress this message.
The upcoming prototypes will not be completely reflective of the final board design, but should be a pretty perfect representation of the board in terms of build process, sound, and feel.
Here are some key points that may be different:
- Feet Cutouts - The upcoming prototypes will have circular feet cutouts. I will be experimenting with longer die-cut feet cutouts instead of the standard circular shape.
- Engraving - The top case on the prototypes will have the older engravings. I will be sampling the final engraving as well as some miniscule tweaks to the bottom weight's engraving.
- Colors - The colors may be tweaked a bit. Anodization is a tricky manual process.
- Finish - I will be deciding between a finer matte silver, versus a more lustrous silver.
(https://i.imgur.com/EncSi7U.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/pdXM1VX.png)
Cloudline Prototype Typing Tests
Would take these with a grain of salt. Using a Samson QU2 which doesn't have a great low-end frequency response, sounds thinner than it would IRL.
Post by: //gainsborough on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:18:30
Post by: OtherAndrew on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:19:25
Post by: DuellM on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:21:09
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: bisoromi on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:21:45
Glwic
Edit: It might be a bit hard to plug in the JST cable to the daughterboard with that deep of a cutout, unless you use tweezers or plug the cable in before screwing in the daughterboard
Post by: Anthixious on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:24:34
Post by: Quinella on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:24:57
Post by: Boy_314 on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:25:15
Post by: kyuut on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:25:28
Post by: kiyoboard on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:25:54
Post by: x9Memoriez on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:27:10
Post by: LONGZILLA on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:28:12
Post by: hali on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:28:50
Post by: whitemamba on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:32:45
Post by: Sephiephiroth on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:33:04
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:33:56
Post by: goddream on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:34:57
Post by: dandruff on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:40:31
Post by: cannon-cat on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:50:12
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 16 November 2020, 22:50:22
The design looks great :D, i love the weight engraving. Personally not a big fan of the top piece engraving though.
Definitely a cop from me other than the engraving above the arrows.
I personally dislike the engraving on the top case above the arrows, but I kinda dig the dreamy aesthetic of the board
Glwic
Edit: It might be a bit hard to plug in the JST cable to the daughterboard with that deep of a cutout, unless you use tweezers or plug the cable in before screwing in the daughterboard
Thank you all for the input on the engraving, that's definitely something that I don't feel strongly about keeping / going, so no worries!
(https://i.imgur.com/M8f9LPK.png)
As for the daughterboard, my intended order of assembly is for the daughterboard to be screwed in, JST connected, then have the weight assembly screwed in on top - there should be a decent amount of room to work with the daughterboard without the weight assembly in place :-) I intend for it to be the "assemble and forget", a la Keycult - where the JST cable to plug into the PCB will hang out, single and ready to mingle..!
Oh, forgot to mention - I had designed this with Hineybush's H88 in mind. I appreciate his help throughout all the questions I have for him in terms of using his PCBs for projects.
Post by: stepstone82 on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:11:30
나의 SM-N971N 의 Tapatalk에서 보냄
Post by: wencan008 on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:19:26
Post by: zoo on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:40:56
Post by: Nevermore012 on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:54:24
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: steezkeez on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:58:09
Post by: bananathock on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:58:32
Post by: Sweep_the_Leg on Mon, 16 November 2020, 23:59:40
Post by: paperassgasket on Tue, 17 November 2020, 00:55:57
https://hineybush.com/products/usb-c-daughterboard
Post by: Nonnegaard on Tue, 17 November 2020, 01:56:49
Post by: Nonnegaard on Tue, 17 November 2020, 02:07:25
Post by: Nonnegaard on Tue, 17 November 2020, 02:12:27
Post by: GMK83 on Tue, 17 November 2020, 03:43:14
Post by: ogp3 on Tue, 17 November 2020, 04:01:15
Post by: Nonnegaard on Tue, 17 November 2020, 05:08:08
This just an idea, but I traced the top of the picture of the cloud and made it into an LED strip to replace the engraving that the people seem to dislike. If you do this, maybe design it better than I did.F88c so no leds unless you use a daughterboard. it could just be an engraving then.
Post by: Visionaire on Tue, 17 November 2020, 09:24:34
I would prefer there be some sort of mark on the front of the case, near the arrows. Prefer logo, but am open to other ideas.
Edit: While I understand your logic about having the SS weight protected by being inside... I think it'll likely get scratched on assembly, and probably increases the cost of the board for little 'value' since it's almost never seen. Would prefer just sandblasted, myself.
Post by: Ustinj on Tue, 17 November 2020, 09:42:57
For what it's worth, prior to having the logo above the arrow key cluster, I had a removable stainless steel badge in the shape of a cloud:
(https://i.imgur.com/hXrSfZ7.png)
I understand that some may not want 'branding' on the top face of the board, while some may simply like a clean look with nothing at all - however, in this case it's a bit difficult to tell if people don't like the engraving being a 'brand', rather than an 'emblem' that represents the board. I get it, because I feel that way too. I think engravings of a cloud / cloudline would feel more tangible to the owner, rather than the brand - only I would really feel connected to the triangle logo (since it's me!!), but those who know it's cloudline would feel more comfortable with a cloud.
Now, the reason I didn't roll with this cloud emblem - I didn't want to add another separate part, and didn't like the positioning that I had chosen. I may consider revisiting this cloud engraving offset to the right (in the same place the logo is currently in).
Post by: ellw on Tue, 17 November 2020, 10:13:17
Post by: krzank on Tue, 17 November 2020, 10:14:00
Will there be an ISO version (with 1.25U left shift) or ANSI only?
Post by: fropsie on Tue, 17 November 2020, 10:22:23
Post by: Visionaire on Tue, 17 November 2020, 10:22:42
Post by: aadk5 on Tue, 17 November 2020, 10:36:13
Hi everyone
For what it's worth, prior to having the logo above the arrow key cluster, I had a removable stainless steel badge in the shape of a cloud:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/hXrSfZ7.png)
I understand that some may not want 'branding' on the top face of the board, while some may simply like a clean look with nothing at all - however, in this case it's a bit difficult to tell if people don't like the engraving being a 'brand', rather than an 'emblem' that represents the board. I get it, because I feel that way too. I think engravings of a cloud / cloudline would feel more tangible to the owner, rather than the brand - only I would really feel connected to the triangle logo (since it's me!!), but those who know it's cloudline would feel more comfortable with a cloud.
Now, the reason I didn't roll with this cloud emblem - I didn't want to add another separate part, and didn't like the positioning that I had chosen. I may consider revisiting this cloud engraving offset to the right (in the same place the logo is currently in).
I personally like this; very on brand to the board, but not over the top in your face. Good job!
Post by: Hugs94 on Tue, 17 November 2020, 10:52:59
Post by: //gainsborough on Tue, 17 November 2020, 11:41:55
Hi everyone
For what it's worth, prior to having the logo above the arrow key cluster, I had a removable stainless steel badge in the shape of a cloud:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/hXrSfZ7.png)
I understand that some may not want 'branding' on the top face of the board, while some may simply like a clean look with nothing at all - however, in this case it's a bit difficult to tell if people don't like the engraving being a 'brand', rather than an 'emblem' that represents the board. I get it, because I feel that way too. I think engravings of a cloud / cloudline would feel more tangible to the owner, rather than the brand - only I would really feel connected to the triangle logo (since it's me!!), but those who know it's cloudline would feel more comfortable with a cloud.
Now, the reason I didn't roll with this cloud emblem - I didn't want to add another separate part, and didn't like the positioning that I had chosen. I may consider revisiting this cloud engraving offset to the right (in the same place the logo is currently in).
Would you reconsider this idea? I think it's super cool and super unique to have a removable badge!
Post by: Nonnegaard on Tue, 17 November 2020, 11:55:41
Hi everyoneSo in other words exactly what i suggested earlier? I dig.
For what it's worth, prior to having the logo above the arrow key cluster, I had a removable stainless steel badge in the shape of a cloud:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/hXrSfZ7.png)
I understand that some may not want 'branding' on the top face of the board, while some may simply like a clean look with nothing at all - however, in this case it's a bit difficult to tell if people don't like the engraving being a 'brand', rather than an 'emblem' that represents the board. I get it, because I feel that way too. I think engravings of a cloud / cloudline would feel more tangible to the owner, rather than the brand - only I would really feel connected to the triangle logo (since it's me!!), but those who know it's cloudline would feel more comfortable with a cloud.
Now, the reason I didn't roll with this cloud emblem - I didn't want to add another separate part, and didn't like the positioning that I had chosen. I may consider revisiting this cloud engraving offset to the right (in the same place the logo is currently in).
Post by: L8T on Tue, 17 November 2020, 11:56:17
Post by: Kinesiologist on Tue, 17 November 2020, 12:11:39
May I suggest more color options?
- black, silver, navy, grey, white
- it would be great if we can choose the top and bottom case color ourselves either to match or mismatch
looking forward to this.
Post by: Ustinj on Tue, 17 November 2020, 12:13:39
So in other words exactly what i suggested earlier? I dig.
Yes, you were definitely on the same path I was on earlier ^-^
Thanks everyone for the kind words. Shannie will find it a big relief that everyone seems to love the weight engravings.
There are some exciting tweaks to be made to the design that I believe will impress all over again when shown.
Post by: aadk5 on Tue, 17 November 2020, 12:24:45
Yes, you were definitely on the same path I was on earlier ^-^
Thanks everyone for the kind words. Shannie will find it a big relief that everyone seems to love the weight engravings.
There are some exciting tweaks to be made to the design that I believe will impress all over again when shown.
I did want to add that I much prefer the logo on top of the up arrow key as it is now over it being off center. I feel like F13 TKL's go for the F13 for the symmetry and it would be nice to have that symmetry carried over in the logo as well
Post by: meowscanttype on Tue, 17 November 2020, 12:29:31
Post by: misswaffle on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:00:27
Post by: FaIIen on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:02:36
Post by: oilpapers on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:04:30
Post by: steezkeez on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:26:22
agree that re-positioning it to be offset to the right (rather than centered above the arrow cluster) would look better imo
Post by: Jefff on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:27:08
Post by: ligongduck on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:39:05
Post by: hpkb on Tue, 17 November 2020, 13:50:42
Post by: Minam on Tue, 17 November 2020, 14:08:41
Even though the best option would not to have anything above the arrow cluster in the first place.
Post by: LubedHealios on Tue, 17 November 2020, 17:04:50
although a shallower longer cloud engraving might be interesting.
Other then that the board looks amazing with a interesting double weight and the way to route the daughterboard,
the bottom looks great and how it transfers into the side which gives it a distinct and nice side profile...
overall i love the look of this, would be interesting to see how that spring leaf would perform with a less stiff plate material.
I'll be looking out for this one for sure
Post by: Ustinj on Tue, 17 November 2020, 17:34:39
One thing I have seen mentioned a few times is that the logo / engraving should be centered over the arrow keys (if there is one at all), for symmetry.
For the cloud emblem 'badge', I had it centered but removed it. In order to use the cloud piece, I would need to have it extended horizontally ... I don't want to center something that is ~1u wide over the arrow keys. My issue with centering something small over the arrow keys is that it kind of "connects" the arrow cluster to the 6-key cluster above it, leaving two empty rectangles to the left and right. It looks unnatural, too orderly .. hard to put what I feel about it into words :))
(https://i.imgur.com/iGuBUex.png)
In the case of the cloud example, centering that cloud perfectly over the arrow keys looked unnaturally orderly, how the left and right edges of the clouds lined up so closely with the up arrow key's cutout. Same goes for the triangle logo that is currently on the board - the choice to have it offset and centered 1u to the right of the arrow keys was intentional, knowing full well that I would break the symmetry and grid-like organization of everything to the right of the enter key.
I think symmetry, when it comes to blockers, keycaps, etc - excellent (tis why 60% is GOATED). But for this engraving, I don't think I'll be centering it unless the engraving is at least ~2.5 units wide to fill in the rectangles made by the space above the left/right arrows.
Just my thoughts!
Post by: oilpapers on Tue, 17 November 2020, 18:31:11
Post by: 3yatt on Tue, 17 November 2020, 19:28:27
Post by: dantambok on Tue, 17 November 2020, 19:42:21
Post by: kk73715 on Tue, 17 November 2020, 19:59:02
Post by: sauv on Tue, 17 November 2020, 20:53:42
Post by: Dave_Types on Tue, 17 November 2020, 21:10:21
Are you planning on doing multiple colours (I'd love a silver board) or is it just going to be the navy in the renders?
Post by: macclack on Tue, 17 November 2020, 21:38:21
Post by: Xephyrus on Wed, 18 November 2020, 09:56:05
Thanks all for the support.
One thing I have seen mentioned a few times is that the logo / engraving should be centered over the arrow keys (if there is one at all), for symmetry.
For the cloud emblem 'badge', I had it centered but removed it. In order to use the cloud piece, I would need to have it extended horizontally ... I don't want to center something that is ~1u wide over the arrow keys. My issue with centering something small over the arrow keys is that it kind of "connects" the arrow cluster to the 6-key cluster above it, leaving two empty rectangles to the left and right. It looks unnatural, too orderly .. hard to put what I feel about it into words :))Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/iGuBUex.png)
In the case of the cloud example, centering that cloud perfectly over the arrow keys looked unnaturally orderly, how the left and right edges of the clouds lined up so closely with the up arrow key's cutout. Same goes for the triangle logo that is currently on the board - the choice to have it offset and centered 1u to the right of the arrow keys was intentional, knowing full well that I would break the symmetry and grid-like organization of everything to the right of the enter key.
I think symmetry, when it comes to blockers, keycaps, etc - excellent (tis why 60% is GOATED). But for this engraving, I don't think I'll be centering it unless the engraving is at least ~2.5 units wide to fill in the rectangles made by the space above the left/right arrows.
Just my thoughts!
Agree with how you described the cloud to be unnatural if it's positioned perfectly at the center. Personally, I like the cloud shape and overall design of this board. Looks clean! I think it will look great if the cloud is extended slightly horizontally; maybe something like the engraving on Lyn Whale :)
Post by: JCraftCables on Wed, 18 November 2020, 10:16:45
Post by: SirKhamenman on Wed, 18 November 2020, 12:09:00
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 18 November 2020, 13:43:50
I like the overall theme and design! Very clean :) Any reason for the choice of mounting style?
Honestly, one of my favorite things about making keyboards and getting prototypes is playing with random mounting styles. There have been some wacky ideas I've had but I'm not brave enough to prototype yet, so this leans more towards something that has been proven.
It's possible that I may revert this to the standard gummy worm / basic top mount if required.
Post by: DERBS on Wed, 18 November 2020, 14:50:07
Post by: isot0nic on Wed, 18 November 2020, 14:58:06
Post by: wencan008 on Wed, 18 November 2020, 15:33:22
Post by: Jefff on Wed, 18 November 2020, 17:47:59
Post by: Vadurr on Wed, 18 November 2020, 18:03:37
Post by: Nevermore012 on Wed, 18 November 2020, 18:08:13
So this won't be using a daughterboard, since it uses the H88?no, he said in the discord will use h88 with daughter board, as you look the render.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: mattv on Wed, 18 November 2020, 18:57:04
Post by: yoniwolf1202 on Wed, 18 November 2020, 20:03:18
Post by: x9Memoriez on Wed, 18 November 2020, 20:52:57
Maybe it would work nicer as an engraving?
Post by: UberPlatypus on Wed, 18 November 2020, 21:33:11
Sent from my HD1925 using Tapatalk
Post by: IMZO on Wed, 18 November 2020, 22:38:45
Thought im done with tkls.. lmao
Post by: SmilingPudding on Thu, 19 November 2020, 06:59:54
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 21 November 2020, 03:19:44
Price
I've seen a lot of people projecting that Cloudline is going to be really expensive - I've decided I'm going to strikethrough the $550 price estimate for now. This number was a result of finding that the Cloudline prototype 1 (no SS piece) was decently cheaper than my Phase prototype. (Of course, Phase pricing isn't finalized yet either - but from the logistics & spreadsheets I've done, I was able to estimate a ~$550 price point for Phase with me putting a few K upfront to cover manu costs). The SS piece for Cloudline should be simpler to machine than the weight on Phase, given it's essentially a flat piece of metal.
Also, I suppose it's not a good idea to set price estimates for bulk ordering on things that will be taken care of several months in the future. Phase may still be going through an experimental phase with more prototyping to be done - so Cloudline does not have a set timeframe to roll. There are a lot of factors to consider as to why price really shouldn't be estimated right now:
- Potential design changes (unlikely to change costs by much)
- Group buy date - not really thinking about this right now, but when it runs, currency exchange rates may have increased / decreased, machining costs may change, etc.
- How many units? Don't know, it all goes hand in hand :hand_splayed:
- Vendors? I do hope to have this out with vendors this time around, and in that case things will be very different from my own logistics with Phase. Please don't DM me as a vendor yet as it's going to be a while before I want to run this project.
"Big" Internal & External Engravings Update
I mentioned that I wanted to refine the internals by:
- Making the stars and clouds appear more natural, less 'cartoony'. Aiming for elegance..
- Change the internal brass pattern from the patterned grooves - the industrial, rugged look clashed with the board's gentle, sleek, dreamy theme.
Also for those who were curious, I removed the logo above the blocker for this render. Do forgive me for the lighting inconsistencies. Also note that with a silver bottom (for the 'silver lining' side profile), there would be less contrast against the steel weight... rendered in dark gray for visual purposes.
OLD
More
(https://i.imgur.com/XLgq5w3.png)
UPDATE
More
(https://i.imgur.com/QObPKwx.png)
Note the laser engraved stars have been changed, clouds, etc. Logo has been removed from the arrow cluster as I only want the logo on this board once. Another possible area could be the edge facing away from the user (the face above the USB port).
Thanks for all the support so far! Shannie and I are ecstatic to see that people are liking what they see.
Post by: SirKhamenman on Sat, 21 November 2020, 04:13:14
I like the design for the new stars and moon better, but somehow I like the design for the previous cloud better, but I like both designs anyway :)
Just my 2 cents
Post by: Hdjekso on Sat, 21 November 2020, 04:55:39
Love the previous design, also love the new design.
I like the design for the new stars and moon better, but somehow I like the design for the previous cloud better, but I like both designs anyway :)
Just my 2 cents
agreed
Post by: Digmo on Sat, 21 November 2020, 06:43:08
Post by: o3okevin on Sat, 21 November 2020, 09:33:08
Post by: oilpapers on Sat, 21 November 2020, 19:07:22
Winkey gang crying :(
I know you can Ctrl + Esc for Start, but is there still a shortcut for locking the PC 🤔
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 21 November 2020, 19:18:31
Winkey gang crying :(
I know you can Ctrl + Esc for Start, but is there still a shortcut for locking the PC 🤔
Personally, I use caps lock ctrl and my bottom left key is winkey 😁 it is fantastic.
Post by: oilpapers on Sat, 21 November 2020, 19:29:16
Winkey gang crying :(
I know you can Ctrl + Esc for Start, but is there still a shortcut for locking the PC 🤔
Personally, I use caps lock ctrl and my bottom left key is winkey 😁 it is fantastic.
Interesting! I guess I don't really use capslock all that much, could work out nicely.
Post by: ubmit on Sun, 22 November 2020, 01:47:36
Winkey gang crying :(
I know you can Ctrl + Esc for Start, but is there still a shortcut for locking the PC 🤔
Personally, I use caps lock ctrl and my bottom left key is winkey 😁 it is fantastic.
I use the same setup here! It works great :thumb:
Curious to know about the price point for this, because I'm really interested in the design!
Post by: kyuut on Mon, 23 November 2020, 15:06:53
Post by: Drakenocas on Mon, 23 November 2020, 22:01:10
Post by: Nonnegaard on Tue, 24 November 2020, 04:54:55
That is nice looking. Looks familiar though. Not familiar enough to ID> Wish the bezel could be curvier.i agree. the bottom is insane, but the top piece looks like anything else. without any engravings, there is no way to tell this board apart from others, at least not from the top.
Post by: Visionaire on Wed, 25 November 2020, 12:27:03
That is nice looking. Looks familiar though. Not familiar enough to ID> Wish the bezel could be curvier.i agree. the bottom is insane, but the top piece looks like anything else. without any engravings, there is no way to tell this board apart from others, at least not from the top.
Agree, would still like to have something on the top
Post by: kiyoboard on Wed, 25 November 2020, 14:34:35
Post by: Vadurr on Wed, 25 November 2020, 16:50:44
Post by: Shinryuuki on Wed, 25 November 2020, 18:21:55
Holistically, it checks a lot of the boxes that I look for in a keyboard.
My only hope is that you would kindly consider offering it in WK layout.
Aesthetically, I would tolerate WKL blockers on a standard non-F13 TKL as the wider gaps in the F-Row (especially between ESC and F1) somewhat compliment the WKL blockers.
However, on F13 layouts, the WKL blockers stick out a lot more and hinder the design balance since the F-Row is much more compact leaving very narrow gaps that don't match the WKL blockers.
This is especially true on this board since the top and bottom bezels have been already slightly extended.
Of course, aesthetics are subjective, thus I hope you will at least consider the option.
Nonetheless, I am looking forward to future updates and wish this IC all the best to a successful GB transition.
Post by: jewleeuhn on Sat, 28 November 2020, 01:38:05
Post by: T.Rex on Sat, 28 November 2020, 11:46:46
Post by: Xeryn on Sun, 06 December 2020, 18:21:03
I'm on the fence about a symbol/icon above the arrow cluster. If there is enough interest for a symbol/icon, it would be cool to do a poll on a few varieties
glwic!
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 06 December 2020, 18:38:20
Post by: Xeryn on Sun, 06 December 2020, 18:50:31
I've concluded that there will NOT be a brand-logo on the top. It's possible to see either a clean top or a board-themed engraving. :thumb:
I worded my post poorly. I meant the engraving, not logo when I said symbol :) Can't wait to see what you decide!
Post by: kk73715 on Tue, 08 December 2020, 21:45:37
Post by: MilkTea_QAQ on Tue, 08 December 2020, 21:49:14
Post by: Ustinj on Tue, 08 December 2020, 23:25:36
ETA on prototype?
Likely within the next week or two. But there will be several stages. The prototype coming has less extravagant internals and serves mostly to verify mounting, and then will be iterated upon.
Manufacture in China?
Currently yes
Post by: noorejji on Wed, 09 December 2020, 05:44:53
Post by: soloplayer on Wed, 09 December 2020, 06:06:10
How is top leaf-spring compared to basic top mount?more flex
Post by: steezkeez on Wed, 09 December 2020, 22:29:44
Post by: Amuaisi on Thu, 10 December 2020, 00:21:14
Someone had suggested a 'sunset' version of the board, and red-orange-purples would also look lovely on this board. Are we still considering the magnetic badge?
Post by: lysergic acid on Thu, 10 December 2020, 02:41:20
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 10 December 2020, 14:27:59
This board is beautiful, and I enjoy the changes. I'm excited to see how it develops, and hope to grab one.
Someone had suggested a 'sunset' version of the board, and red-orange-purples would also look lovely on this board. Are we still considering the magnetic badge?
I usually lean towards the more laid-back colors over the super vibrant and eye-catching ones, but I'll keep some in mind. Will consider the badge (not magnetic, it's screwed in from under the top),
What is the current cost of the phase prototype?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I don't think the cost of the Phase / Moment prototype would be a good measure for the Cloudline prototype at this time, as the current Cloudline prototype is ~$200 cheaper but does not include the SS piece. I feel that even including the SS piece, being a flat piece, should still be under the cost of the 60%. To answer your Q, the Phase / Moment prototype is somewhere between $700 and $800.
Post by: lysergic acid on Thu, 10 December 2020, 20:39:49
I don't think the cost of the Phase / Moment prototype would be a good measure for the Cloudline prototype at this time, as the current Cloudline prototype is ~$200 cheaper but does not include the SS piece. I feel that even including the SS piece, being a flat piece, should still be under the cost of the 60%. To answer your Q, the Phase / Moment prototype is somewhere between $700 and $800.
thanks, i'll be watching both the Phase and Cloudline
Post by: BeachFan69 on Thu, 10 December 2020, 22:27:04
Post by: LucaLo_ on Fri, 11 December 2020, 12:30:56
Maybe instead of a company logo, you could try something cloud/dream related?
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 18 December 2020, 00:53:53
(https://i.imgur.com/ByGF8mX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/e8tbiwI.jpg)
No internal details, as this was a very early prototype order that did not have my latest internal design. No PCB yet. Also, leaf springs will need some work - essentially what I've got here ATM is top-mount, which I really don't mind.
Post by: gird on Fri, 18 December 2020, 01:43:47
Post by: Cubic // esc lab on Fri, 18 December 2020, 01:55:34
Post by: kimchijody on Tue, 22 December 2020, 05:07:15
Post by: Nonnegaard on Thu, 24 December 2020, 05:05:44
top mount best mounthaha
Post by: forevermadrigal on Thu, 24 December 2020, 07:43:40
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 24 December 2020, 09:44:39
Let me see that weight tho
No internals, as this was an earlier prototype ordered before my latest revisions. Next time... but here is another angle of the external weight..
(https://i.imgur.com/STeMuVp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BdCRJB2.jpg)
Post by: //gainsborough on Thu, 24 December 2020, 09:52:10
Post by: yoniwolf1202 on Thu, 24 December 2020, 10:24:20
Thanks for the support and kind words all.That composition thoLet me see that weight tho
No internals, as this was an earlier prototype ordered before my latest revisions. Next time... but here is another angle of the external weight..Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/STeMuVp.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/BdCRJB2.jpg)
Post by: Nonnegaard on Thu, 24 December 2020, 19:41:39
Thanks for the support and kind words all.These pictures are drop-dead gorgeous. I really hope you make it in an all silver like this.Let me see that weight tho
No internals, as this was an earlier prototype ordered before my latest revisions. Next time... but here is another angle of the external weight..Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/STeMuVp.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/BdCRJB2.jpg)
Post by: Paitupai on Thu, 24 December 2020, 21:05:38
Post by: rooney on Thu, 24 December 2020, 22:22:06
Post by: ThereminGoat on Fri, 25 December 2020, 01:02:00
Thanks for the support and kind words all.Let me see that weight tho
No internals, as this was an earlier prototype ordered before my latest revisions. Next time... but here is another angle of the external weight..Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/STeMuVp.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/BdCRJB2.jpg)
Honestly one of the cleanest weight designs I've seen on a board. Absolutely gorgeous.
Post by: //gainsborough on Fri, 25 December 2020, 02:29:34
RIP my wallet.
doing a lot of assuming here =P inb4 50 units total =(
Post by: Zeelobby on Fri, 25 December 2020, 06:50:35
Post by: forevermadrigal on Sat, 26 December 2020, 02:12:07
Post by: Zyrophr on Wed, 30 December 2020, 17:44:41
Keeb looks dope, wonderful design.
Post by: heyimpanda on Wed, 30 December 2020, 19:29:21
Post by: Exluna on Wed, 30 December 2020, 23:55:58
Post by: Emasterbro on Thu, 31 December 2020, 06:10:52
Post by: ardy1 on Sun, 03 January 2021, 10:00:22
Post by: marshmellohs on Sun, 03 January 2021, 18:34:44
Post by: gasp on Mon, 04 January 2021, 00:23:29
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 27 January 2021, 22:43:49
Hello everyone I hope the new year is going well. This project is still moving behind the scenes.
Some adjustments were made, and another prototype was ordered. I have also been making progress on things such as working with a potential custom PCB designer (they do great work!), potential vendors, etc. I am also considering the overall state of the keyboard market and my personal bias in my decision for unit count - that will be discussed with vendors when I get the chance. And I'll be negotiating with vendors on that as well when it comes up.
Here is the updated engraving. There were requests for something similar to the Whale with its smooth, flowing lines and freeform aesthetic. While I love the engraving on the Whale, I felt that the smooth and flowing feel would not be a match with the bottom engraving - boxy, uniform, organized, strict design language. I also realized that the initial issue with my first proposed cloud engraving was not because it was centered (like I initially thought), but that it was centered and the edges perfectly aligned with the edges of the arrow cluster.
Updated Engraving
(https://i.imgur.com/3VnLJ9E.png)
Post by: wencan008 on Wed, 27 January 2021, 23:25:48
Post by: gird on Thu, 28 January 2021, 01:19:27
Post by: Visionaire on Thu, 28 January 2021, 10:46:32
Post by: o3okevin on Thu, 28 January 2021, 12:25:00
Post by: macclack on Thu, 28 January 2021, 14:34:59
Post by: Engedi_ on Thu, 28 January 2021, 16:00:19
Post by: Friendship on Thu, 28 January 2021, 16:37:44
Post by: bagelbyte on Thu, 28 January 2021, 18:13:23
Post by: geohammy on Sat, 30 January 2021, 14:48:25
Post by: DERBS on Wed, 10 February 2021, 03:27:04
Post by: Jebus on Wed, 10 February 2021, 08:44:22
Post by: Nhils on Thu, 11 February 2021, 05:58:07
Still rooting for a WK option too <3 !!
Post by: Rx003 on Fri, 19 February 2021, 05:56:13
Post by: Enroze on Mon, 22 February 2021, 17:55:17
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 22 February 2021, 23:55:27
More
holy, this thing is hot :eek: love the side profile, and the weight engraving is so nice :') can't wait for the gb, and glwic !
Watching! I cant wait for this looks so nice the side profile looks so hot :-* :-* :-* glwic and wish you all the best for this project!
Aaaah this is my dream board... that engraving, goodness...
Still rooting for a WK option too <3 !!
The engraving adds a lot of character! Love it!
Im ready for my L please!
Looks great! plz do a blue / navy color
Hot dog dat engraving is awesome
very stoked for this! loving the design theme execution!
Wowee that's pretty
that engraving is so nice
Great choice. Love the change and appreciate the passion behind the project.
Love the updated engraving! Excited to see next iteration.
Liking the new engraving, excited to see how this next prototype turns out
I Appreciate all the kind words and support. Project is still moving, waiting for the next prototype - I placed the order for it a while back. This is going to be a big step, it includes some significant internal changes.
On another note, I've made a lot of progress securing vendors for the project and am looking forward to confirming soon. Hopefully this will come with other big updates, such as format, unit count, pricing, etc.
Post by: soloplayer on Tue, 23 February 2021, 02:17:47
Various quotes in dropdown:Moreholy, this thing is hot :eek: love the side profile, and the weight engraving is so nice :') can't wait for the gb, and glwic !Watching! I cant wait for this looks so nice the side profile looks so hot :-* :-* :-* glwic and wish you all the best for this project!Aaaah this is my dream board... that engraving, goodness...
Still rooting for a WK option too <3 !!The engraving adds a lot of character! Love it!Im ready for my L please!Looks great! plz do a blue / navy colorHot dog dat engraving is awesomevery stoked for this! loving the design theme execution!Wowee that's prettythat engraving is so niceGreat choice. Love the change and appreciate the passion behind the project.Love the updated engraving! Excited to see next iteration.Liking the new engraving, excited to see how this next prototype turns out
I Appreciate all the kind words and support. Project is still moving, waiting for the next prototype - I placed the order for it a while back. This is going to be a big step, it includes some significant internal changes.
On another note, I've made a lot of progress securing vendors for the project and am looking forward to confirming soon. Hopefully this will come with other big updates, such as format, unit count, pricing, etc.
hopefully it's the update i'm looking for !
shout out to Justin the man
Post by: vidoardes on Tue, 23 February 2021, 03:30:06
It's beautiful.
EDIT: Discord invite doesn't work for me, could someone ping me a link?
Post by: Hi !! on Tue, 23 February 2021, 08:25:33
Feel like having one board just sitting on your desk with the inner engraving being exposed is so justi(n)fied. :)
Post by: IMZO on Tue, 23 February 2021, 11:49:51
Post by: Chippy on Fri, 05 March 2021, 20:35:40
Post by: epiccoderman on Sun, 07 March 2021, 02:16:13
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 07 March 2021, 02:41:18
Post by: Cedratto on Tue, 09 March 2021, 22:28:17
Hi everyone
For what it's worth, prior to having the logo above the arrow key cluster, I had a removable stainless steel badge in the shape of a cloud:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/hXrSfZ7.png)
I understand that some may not want 'branding' on the top face of the board, while some may simply like a clean look with nothing at all - however, in this case it's a bit difficult to tell if people don't like the engraving being a 'brand', rather than an 'emblem' that represents the board. I get it, because I feel that way too. I think engravings of a cloud / cloudline would feel more tangible to the owner, rather than the brand - only I would really feel connected to the triangle logo (since it's me!!), but those who know it's cloudline would feel more comfortable with a cloud.
Now, the reason I didn't roll with this cloud emblem - I didn't want to add another separate part, and didn't like the positioning that I had chosen. I may consider revisiting this cloud engraving offset to the right (in the same place the logo is currently in).
Hello, I'd like to revisit this in case it got lost in earlier conversation but I think this would make a beautiful addition to the board and really work thematically. I feel that sometimes the top of boards can look very plain but this would add that nice little touch. I also think that it would look a lot nicer to keep the cloud centered compared to having it be off centered in either direction.
Post by: sybase on Tue, 09 March 2021, 22:34:25
Hi everyone
For what it's worth, prior to having the logo above the arrow key cluster, I had a removable stainless steel badge in the shape of a cloud:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/hXrSfZ7.png)
I understand that some may not want 'branding' on the top face of the board, while some may simply like a clean look with nothing at all - however, in this case it's a bit difficult to tell if people don't like the engraving being a 'brand', rather than an 'emblem' that represents the board. I get it, because I feel that way too. I think engravings of a cloud / cloudline would feel more tangible to the owner, rather than the brand - only I would really feel connected to the triangle logo (since it's me!!), but those who know it's cloudline would feel more comfortable with a cloud.
Now, the reason I didn't roll with this cloud emblem - I didn't want to add another separate part, and didn't like the positioning that I had chosen. I may consider revisiting this cloud engraving offset to the right (in the same place the logo is currently in).
Hello, I'd like to revisit this in case it got lost in earlier conversation but I think this would make a beautiful addition to the board and really work thematically. I feel that sometimes the top of boards can look very plain but this would add that nice little touch. I also think that it would look a lot nicer to keep the cloud centered compared to having it be off centered in either direction.
I agree with everything said here. I would like some engraving. I prefer clouds, but logo is ok too, just something to help distinguish the top-down view from all the other TKL boards.
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 10 March 2021, 00:01:42
There will be an engraving over the arrow cluster, as mentioned in msg 139: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=109637.msg3007088#msg3007088
(For reference; the photo:)
(https://i.imgur.com/3VnLJ9E.png)
While this is the engraving in the plans right now, it can still be subject to change. While I love a flowing and curvy design and initially wanted something like scripture for an engraving, I figured to do something that was more in tune with the bottom weight engraving design - uniform, concise, straight-to-the-point lines for a very simple engraving.
Post by: santela on Wed, 10 March 2021, 00:58:49
Hi guys
There will be an engraving over the arrow cluster, as mentioned in msg 139: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=109637.msg3007088#msg3007088
(For reference; the photo:)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/3VnLJ9E.png)
While this is the engraving in the plans right now, it can still be subject to change. While I love a flowing and curvy design and initially wanted something like scripture for an engraving, I figured to do something that was more in tune with the bottom weight engraving design - uniform, concise, straight-to-the-point lines for a very simple engraving.
While I'm generally more a fan of clean tops, this is done tastefully and feels unobtrusive. Very nice.
Post by: //gainsborough on Wed, 10 March 2021, 02:28:56
Post by: 2QT2BSTR8 on Wed, 10 March 2021, 03:33:00
Post by: ai06L on Fri, 12 March 2021, 10:15:40
Post by: Prestley on Sat, 13 March 2021, 20:16:23
Post by: Adriano on Mon, 15 March 2021, 02:07:06
Post by: GWACHA on Mon, 15 March 2021, 04:11:27
Post by: hnry on Mon, 15 March 2021, 12:17:57
Post by: bagelbyte on Mon, 15 March 2021, 12:41:34
Post by: 7equals7 on Tue, 16 March 2021, 06:11:07
Post by: sub0001 on Sat, 20 March 2021, 15:39:00
Post by: sybase on Sat, 20 March 2021, 18:14:45
Hi guys
There will be an engraving over the arrow cluster, as mentioned in msg 139: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=109637.msg3007088#msg3007088
(For reference; the photo:)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/3VnLJ9E.png)
While this is the engraving in the plans right now, it can still be subject to change. While I love a flowing and curvy design and initially wanted something like scripture for an engraving, I figured to do something that was more in tune with the bottom weight engraving design - uniform, concise, straight-to-the-point lines for a very simple engraving.
Love the engraving! I don't usually post, but chiming in on this one to say that I really like this and hopefully help boost unit count!
Post by: ambulated on Sat, 20 March 2021, 18:33:06
Post by: Newcomb on Sun, 21 March 2021, 11:23:41
Post by: ManiacMarc on Fri, 02 April 2021, 18:10:50
Post by: cspirou on Sun, 04 April 2021, 13:39:18
Post by: sirpeebs on Sun, 04 April 2021, 18:08:05
that side profile is just straight scarjo - just won't quit.
Post by: Crab2020 on Tue, 06 April 2021, 14:28:15
Post by: Casserole on Tue, 06 April 2021, 16:07:27
Post by: TheMetalDog on Tue, 06 April 2021, 17:07:09
Post by: Ustinj on Tue, 06 April 2021, 22:13:11
Just wanted to update here to let you guys know that the project is still in the works - currently I am waiting on the second prototype to come in. The manufacturer had a bit of a mishap in machining and had to redo some parts. IC is still alive, but I did not want to bump unless there was something worth announcing; Now I figure I have a duty to do so with all the responses since my last update.
Will be posting a large update when the next prototype arrives with a lot more useful information regarding things like group buy, unit counts, pricing, and what-not.
jjw
Post by: JJ on Wed, 07 April 2021, 01:29:51
Sent from my SM-G9600 using Tapatalk
Post by: kraptocracy on Wed, 07 April 2021, 01:41:05
Post by: noorejji on Wed, 07 April 2021, 13:39:11
Literally made an account on geekhack to say I'm going to be patient for this board.Thanks
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 08 April 2021, 00:18:07
(https://i.imgur.com/S7feja8.png)
Again, early pictures should be taken with a grain of salt. I hope to have this in my hands soon enough, and will snap more shots / videos when the time comes.
Post by: Fatty-Do-Do on Thu, 08 April 2021, 01:00:07
This is going to be a beauty.
Post by: shxWN on Thu, 08 April 2021, 16:21:58
Kinda wished the arrow engraving was a little more pronounced but I'm sure that's not for everyone.
Post by: epiccoderman on Thu, 08 April 2021, 16:25:56
There will very very likely be WK available (99%).
ok im 110% in then. LESGOO
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 08 April 2021, 16:28:44
this board is really a beauty, hope to pick this one up.
Kinda wished the arrow engraving was a little more pronounced but I'm sure that's not for everyone.
I have felt the same way, but I operate through trial and error. I have something in mind for this, here is a snippet of an update I shared on Discord (I reserve major updates for Geekhack and IG, though Discord is where I ramble more and share minor thoughts). Stay tuned, perhaps you will be a fan of the alternate vision I have.
(https://i.imgur.com/SMrsqvc.png)
I have been pondering an idea recently. The internals of Cloudline are detailed and not visible when built - I know. So I've contemplated spicing up the external engraving a bit as well, while keeping a similar design language, so that some blend of elegance / intricacy can be seen from the outside to match. Some have seen the new proposed engraving - I'll confirm and show it to everyone when I can get this in person and have an in-person look at what I've got.
Post by: Rocket on Thu, 08 April 2021, 16:43:54
[attachimg=1]
Post by: yoboard on Thu, 08 April 2021, 18:43:56
Post by: RoyalOak88 on Fri, 09 April 2021, 03:55:48
Very curious to see the final prototype
Post by: Mechalomania on Fri, 09 April 2021, 14:26:36
Post by: mr_fro2000 on Wed, 14 April 2021, 20:47:02
It's products like this that brings out the salt @ gb. Taking an 'L' on this one will hurt.
Post by: thornkin on Thu, 15 April 2021, 00:21:08
Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 15 April 2021, 00:25:32
Is there an eta for the gb?
Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk
I have a full vendor list lined up, however am waiting on the next prototype to arrive to verify quality and functionality. On that note, the prototype has just shipped to me and should be in hand soon. There will probably be minor / nonfunctional tweaks in a final pre-production round of prototyping with GB colors, and I should also be able confirm with my vendors details such as pricing, quantity, dates, etc.
Post by: Mr_BeastQuake on Thu, 15 April 2021, 00:28:57
Post by: thornkin on Thu, 15 April 2021, 01:27:31
Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk
Post by: thebreadsaver on Fri, 16 April 2021, 18:11:57
Post by: Fatty-Do-Do on Sat, 17 April 2021, 05:44:04
I am not against branding on the top of the board as long as it is done tastefully.
If you have not fully thrown away the idea of the steel cloud above the arrows i would love to see it's return for the final model.
It's a minute detail that makes the board recognizable even without picking it up or seeing the internal detailing.
Hope you're all doing well. ;)
Post by: alternisciel on Sat, 17 April 2021, 09:03:48
Absolutely love the board.
I am not against branding on the top of the board as long as it is done tastefully.
If you have not fully thrown away the idea of the steel cloud above the arrows i would love to see it's return for the final model.
It's a minute detail that makes the board recognizable even without picking it up or seeing the internal detailing.
Hope you're all doing well. ;)
I think so too! Having something between the space would be a really neat touch to it, personally prefer it.
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 23 April 2021, 14:36:18
Prototype 2 has arrived. So far with some quick inspection, some worries I had of the keyboard's functionality are alleviated. I don't think there will be many issues with the build, but the only way to really find out is to build it! Going to be building this tonight around ~9 PM PDT with a possible stream for any questions that people may want to ask live. Short notice, but the sooner I can build and verify it the quicker we can move with the group buy. I will probably ping Discord (https://discord.gg/XPEFcn8) for a live update of when that happens, so feel free to join if you'd like to follow closely (Geekhack alone will have all important updates though, so if not it's totally dandy).
Since some case concerns have been addressed, I think the sentiment is pretty good in this project making it to group buy. I'd like to really thank the team of vendors that will be supporting this project!
Vendors:
- CannonKeys
- Deskhero
- mykeyboard.eu
- Proto[Typist]
- ILUMKB
- Daily Clack
More details, such as groupbuy date, pricing, unit count, will be confirmed later!
For the build, I will try to upload a separate VOD with the typing sounds and whatnot. But anyway, I'll probably also do this to take any Q's, comments, inspect / build to verify the prototype, consider final tweaks, and share a super-secret engraving change proposal.
(https://i.imgur.com/p7781lc.jpg)
Post by: OmniSzron on Fri, 23 April 2021, 16:20:12
Post by: DERBS on Fri, 23 April 2021, 21:18:04
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 24 April 2021, 21:09:04
I think the stream was an unexpected success last night, the interest and turnout surprised me. If you showed up thanks for supporting. Unfortunately chat was not working on the overlay properly, so I wasn't able to download a very useful / interesting VOD. If you watch the VOD directly on twitch, you'll be able to see questions / comments in the chat. I've re-recorded a summary video of how the board is assembled, as well as typing tests in both top-(flex)-mount and gummy worm o-ring mount.
Here is a link to the full build stream VOD(s), along with chat questions and whatnot.
https://www.twitch.tv/jjw_kb/videos
Quick Assembly Demo / Typing Tests
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59XXwQnM484
Build with Cherry MX Blacks (Retooled), 205g0, TX Films, TX 62g 16mm springs on an aluminum half-plate, Mechlovin' Infinity88 PCB. Spacebar stabs do need a bit of extra lube, but you can still imagine what the board would sound like minus the rattle.
Here are some noteworthy timestamps, also in the description of the Youtube video.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Bottom Case Assembly / Look
3:20 - [Top / Spring Mount] Assembly
7:00 - Completed Keyboard Look / Side Profile / Butt
8:15 - [Top / Spring Mount] Typing
9:10 - [Top / Spring Mount] Modifiers
9:45 - [Top / Spring Mount] Flex
10:20 - Disassembly
12:45 - [O-ring / Gummy Worm Mount] Assembly
15:20 - Completed Keyboard Look / Side Profiles
16:20 - [O-ring / Gummy Worm Mount] Typing
17:15 - [O-ring / Gummy Worm Mount] Modifiers
17:45 - [O-ring / Gummy Worm Mount] Flex
18:17 - Close Up Side Profile / Engravings
Post by: cyyz on Sat, 24 April 2021, 22:10:53
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 24 April 2021, 22:31:10
(https://i.imgur.com/ygapeni.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/v9Aejqu.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/zLpEI1B.png)
Post by: //gainsborough on Sat, 24 April 2021, 22:37:13
Cannon keys NA vendor there goes my chances :'( ,unless fcfs
*pushes up glasses*
WELL ACTUALLY, CK IS FCFS
...partly anyway.
I'm right there with you though, man. Haven't conquored the CK queue boss yet either. Maybe this is the one for us!
Post by: noorejji on Sat, 24 April 2021, 23:09:30
Post by: Whale_algorithm on Sun, 25 April 2021, 08:14:07
1. Could you please include the option for PCB foam with this?
2. I beg you to please not do a center USB port. Offset to the right would be much preferred.
3. Have color options been confirmed or discussed? It looks like potentially blue and black?
Thanks
Post by: UGunaLOSE on Sun, 25 April 2021, 12:16:47
Post by: Cloudbank on Sun, 25 April 2021, 12:35:12
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 25 April 2021, 14:11:14
This is looking quite nice. A few questions / suggestions from me:
1. Could you please include the option for PCB foam with this?
2. I beg you to please not do a center USB port. Offset to the right would be much preferred.
3. Have color options been confirmed or discussed? It looks like potentially blue and black?
Thanks
1. No foam included with the board, it doesn't need it.
2. The board's already been built upon too far to make this change at this point!
3. There will likely be a silver or e-white, dark blue-gray, and a third undisclosed color.
Post by: Fatty-Do-Do on Sun, 25 April 2021, 17:17:53
Oh yes, completely forgot to add this here as well. Here's an idea of the alternate engraving I had in mind. The board is pretty extravagant internally, and I wanted to bring some pizazz to the exterior as well so it wouldn't look so plain with caps mounted. I was looking at the silver board on my desk and felt something a bit more filling of the space (i.e. similar dimensions to TGR Jane / OTD 360 top engravings). My hope was to get a sense of "looking out of a window and at a field of clouds". The curled corners give me a dreamy, sleepy, curtain / drapes vibe. Probably going to play a bit with sizing / cloud shapes before confirming.Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/ygapeni.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/v9Aejqu.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/zLpEI1B.png)
Amazing! I love the new engraving Idea.
The new render colour looks absolutely amazing. Please make the 3rd colour option something like space-gray.
If here will be an ISO Option available this is going to be an instant pickup for me.
Post by: seasalt11 on Sun, 25 April 2021, 17:22:14
Post by: Scoscobola on Sun, 25 April 2021, 18:20:38
Post by: Sicras on Sun, 25 April 2021, 18:39:26
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 25 April 2021, 20:21:17
There is a round of pre-production boards to be made in GB colors. Then we will be ready to confirm more details :)
- Top bezel slightly reduced
- Front engraving changed (experimental)
- Typing angle 6° > 6.5° (for aesthetic purposes - anything under 8° is fine for me)
- Front height reduced 18.5mm > 17.9mm (EKH < 22.5mm)
That is probably it for this round of major updates... will likely have more details when we're working on finalizing GB details!!
I also found that the previous video I had uploaded had a +6 db post volume boost on the microphone that I had added for my voice. I re-recorded some typing tests:
Retooled Blacks (Half Plate):
Durock Lavenders (Full Plate):
Post by: Devastator on Wed, 28 April 2021, 14:14:27
Post by: loopaddiction on Wed, 28 April 2021, 14:46:54
Post by: Peko on Wed, 28 April 2021, 22:39:57
Post by: ChiKaSama on Thu, 29 April 2021, 12:02:00
Post by: Whale_algorithm on Wed, 05 May 2021, 12:35:04
I would prefer a simple engraving font, maybe just a moon and 2 to 3 stars above arrow keys？
That would be my preference as well.
Do we know when this is expected to move to GB stage?
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 05 May 2021, 18:28:13
To answer the question regarding GB date - no dates are confirmed yet. Currently waiting to test a plate variant, once that's done then there will likely be a pre-production batch of boards that would be sent to content creators to build / review I believe. Then GB would run after that.
As for the engraving, I've found that sharing decisions / taking input for non-functional changes leads to more conflict and disappointment, so I'll stick to my gut and my original goal - to make the board into something that I find aesthetically ideal. No matter what direction it goes, there will be people who prefer one thing over another, and unfortunately there's no way everyone will have their ideas incorporated.
Here's Dystopia Red ..!
(https://i.imgur.com/aLZDHq7.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/476xCcr.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/gQQcHYR.png)
Post by: zedbraxmen on Wed, 05 May 2021, 20:26:54
Hi all
To answer the question regarding GB date - no dates are confirmed yet. Currently waiting to test a plate variant, once that's done then there will likely be a pre-production batch of boards that would be sent to content creators to build / review I believe. Then GB would run after that.
As for the engraving, I've found that sharing decisions / taking input for non-functional changes leads to more conflict and disappointment, so I'll stick to my gut and my original goal - to make the board into something that I find aesthetically ideal. No matter what direction it goes, there will be people who prefer one thing over another, and unfortunately there's no way everyone will have their ideas incorporated.
Here's Dystopia Red ..!Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/aLZDHq7.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/476xCcr.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/gQQcHYR.png)
Hot. Very very hot.
Post by: Dotnick on Wed, 05 May 2021, 20:32:07
Post by: //gainsborough on Wed, 05 May 2021, 21:01:09
Post by: ligongduck on Wed, 05 May 2021, 22:21:39
Post by: vi0till on Thu, 06 May 2021, 02:31:47
Post by: RoyalOak88 on Thu, 06 May 2021, 09:24:34
Post by: Whale_algorithm on Thu, 06 May 2021, 13:18:50
Post by: RoyalOak88 on Thu, 06 May 2021, 13:36:35
Red would look great with stargaze (http://"https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=110741.0")
Just reading my thoughts
Post by: Puncus on Thu, 06 May 2021, 19:49:47
Post by: sirpeebs on Sat, 08 May 2021, 21:54:58
I personally trust your eye and if it looks like a battery to me and you say no it's what it needs then I will still be a buyer as you clearly know what you are doing. I recognize the selfishness of mentioning this at all but as someone who's been tracking this board and only this board since your initial post I feel somehow invested in the concept and like a dog in the backyard I felt like barking was something I had to do.
Btw those internal engravings seen with no plate from the top down angle are just stunning and brilliant. I've never seen that before. And agree with everyone else that shade of red is beautiful.
Post by: brunosan_. on Mon, 10 May 2021, 08:19:39
Post by: QuaintSafe on Mon, 10 May 2021, 09:25:06
Post by: Engedi_ on Tue, 11 May 2021, 12:45:45
Post by: bukowski on Fri, 14 May 2021, 02:37:41
Preferably including the logo.
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 14 May 2021, 04:06:17
IC has been updated / revamped.
It's smart and more than fair to go with your gut and preference on the non-functional changes, the board looks great and that's because of you. That said, your current engraving appears to resemble a battery to my eye at first and second glace at minor distance. All other engravings and even your original 3D logo that you had before all these opinions came flooding in have been fantastic no matter the versioning or changes, but this is such a drastic departure from all of them I just don't understand it.
I personally trust your eye and if it looks like a battery to me and you say no it's what it needs then I will still be a buyer as you clearly know what you are doing. I recognize the selfishness of mentioning this at all but as someone who's been tracking this board and only this board since your initial post I feel somehow invested in the concept and like a dog in the backyard I felt like barking was something I had to do.
Btw those internal engravings seen with no plate from the top down angle are just stunning and brilliant. I've never seen that before. And agree with everyone else that shade of red is beautiful.
Thank you for feedback.
Post by: Xerra on Fri, 14 May 2021, 06:28:00
Post by: darthcapn on Fri, 14 May 2021, 18:28:48
Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk
Post by: morty19 on Fri, 14 May 2021, 19:14:49
Post by: Yukinon on Sat, 15 May 2021, 02:35:26
Post by: wencan008 on Sun, 16 May 2021, 00:28:56
Love the external engravings. Was just wondering will there be a black colorway?
This has been asked a few times in the discord server. Black is very unlikely, but Justin is considering adding a dark gray
Post by: MyManMart on Sun, 16 May 2021, 02:40:23
Post by: Quinella on Sun, 16 May 2021, 02:55:29
Post by: keguira on Sun, 16 May 2021, 03:49:29
It's smart and more than fair to go with your gut and preference on the non-functional changes, the board looks great and that's because of you. That said, your current engraving appears to resemble a battery to my eye at first and second glace at minor distance. All other engravings and even your original 3D logo that you had before all these opinions came flooding in have been fantastic no matter the versioning or changes, but this is such a drastic departure from all of them I just don't understand it.
I personally trust your eye and if it looks like a battery to me and you say no it's what it needs then I will still be a buyer as you clearly know what you are doing. I recognize the selfishness of mentioning this at all but as someone who's been tracking this board and only this board since your initial post I feel somehow invested in the concept and like a dog in the backyard I felt like barking was something I had to do.
Btw those internal engravings seen with no plate from the top down angle are just stunning and brilliant. I've never seen that before. And agree with everyone else that shade of red is beautiful.
You just put the words I had in mind.
I think, i'll try to show this to someone who is not interested into keyboard and electronic stuff to see if (s)he has the same idea :)
Post by: Devastator on Sun, 16 May 2021, 10:31:25
Post by: Jebus on Sun, 16 May 2021, 10:50:30
Post by: vi0till on Sun, 16 May 2021, 10:59:42
I was just wondering, will this keyboard be in TKL too, or just WKL?Stated in layout, WK & WKL
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Qwapa on Sun, 16 May 2021, 22:13:36
Post by: Mt_Ursa on Tue, 18 May 2021, 17:33:29
Looks like a project I will be losing sleep to order, but it will be a worthy sacrifice. Thank you Shannie for inspiring this project!
Post by: SDKCAMPING on Wed, 19 May 2021, 00:52:45
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 20 May 2021, 00:44:17
Thanks for the comments. I read all of them and consider them.
Ball is starting to move.
Here is an update to announce 4 standard colors for the group buy. All colors will come with a contrasting silver bottom to emphasize the silver lining theme.
(Overcast) Silver, for an endlessly curtained sky
(Serene) Blue, for the sense of calm when the clouds and sky are in balance
(Dystopia) Red, for an ominous and foreboding skyline
(Moonlight) Gray, for a dark sky doused in ... well, the moonlight
(https://i.imgur.com/UwswayV.png) (https://i.imgur.com/eEQUPsj.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/JXgX0QV.png) (https://i.imgur.com/mDEVq0J.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/7AFuZF7.png) (https://i.imgur.com/m1zKIo6.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/CAoX4uE.png) (https://i.imgur.com/nvT4cBI.png)
Thank you!
Post by: //gainsborough on Thu, 20 May 2021, 01:13:30
Very nice work, can't wait for an opportunity to try for one!
Post by: Jay Lee on Thu, 20 May 2021, 01:18:21
Post by: victorpre on Thu, 20 May 2021, 02:48:24
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Post by: prettydouchebag on Thu, 20 May 2021, 10:45:13
In for a red one if I could only be so lucky.
Post by: thornkin on Fri, 21 May 2021, 01:48:18
Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk
Post by: DERBS on Fri, 21 May 2021, 14:52:13
personal preference I guess
With that being said I do thing that the smaller engraving would have benefited a lot by having it above the left or right arrow key instead of on top of the up/down keys
Post by: alwaysbless on Fri, 21 May 2021, 19:57:29
Post by: TheMetalDog on Fri, 21 May 2021, 20:09:57
Oh dear god please change that above arrow cluster engraving. The first one was much more minimal and aesthetically pleasing.
I hope they don't change it. I like it.
So that just shows how personal preference is a thing and I think it's been long decided that the designer is going to go with the design he likes, so it's up to us to decide if it's a design we want to spend money on.
For me, I'm really looking forward to an opportunity to buy one of these.
Post by: alwaysbless on Fri, 21 May 2021, 20:21:07
Oh dear god please change that above arrow cluster engraving. The first one was much more minimal and aesthetically pleasing.
I hope they don't change it. I like it.
So that just shows how personal preference is a thing and I think it's been long decided that the designer is going to go with the design he likes, so it's up to us to decide if it's a design we want to spend money on.
For me, I'm really looking forward to an opportunity to buy one of these.
Post by: alwaysbless on Fri, 21 May 2021, 20:23:26
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 21 May 2021, 20:26:33
Currently, case design is mostly ready for pre-production samples. I'm working on some tweaks to the plate that will give more variety - with the previous leaf-springs, there was the common case of vibration transfer throughout the plate as well as having a bit too much give (which is not what I want coming from the stiffest plate variant I plan to offer). You may notice that a lot of similar leaf-spring structures come with dampening surfaces that significantly reduce that vibration (gaskets?) ... I'd like to avoid this, so I'm going to aim to slightly stiffen up the structure and let plate materials play a core role in feel. Also, as some may notice - there are mounting points in the four corners to the left / right of alphas, which already give a bit of extra relief. Plastic plates will not be compatible with relief cuts on the top-mount mounting points in addition to the 6-point mount, so an alternate plate design will be used for softer materials like polypropylene, polycarbonate, POM, etc if offered.
I would not be surprised if 99% of people will be using the gummy-worm mount anyway, which works perfectly :)
On that note, I like to show that we're moving closer to getting things moving:
(https://i.imgur.com/cqWhs8k.png)
Post by: o3okevin on Fri, 21 May 2021, 21:24:58
Post by: brodiegrizz on Sat, 22 May 2021, 00:26:55
Post by: //gainsborough on Sat, 22 May 2021, 01:09:20
Post by: Hell-es on Sat, 22 May 2021, 12:25:15
Colors are very nice :thumb:
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 23 May 2021, 02:03:27
Is it safe to assume all vendors will be region locked?
I think we can assume that, but if any regions need help in filling up spots it'll be unlocked. I'd wait for full GB details to be confirmed - it should be clarified then.
Here are some images of the board with caps on (GMK Apollo) - those internals are really distracting. It's about time I rendered with caps... forgive any strangeness in the legends!
(https://i.imgur.com/fg2n5Fp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/LP7zYcK.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/AqdeRtn.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZJNzOvU.png)
Post by: flying1911 on Sun, 23 May 2021, 04:25:12
Post by: IHaveDowntism on Sun, 23 May 2021, 21:54:13
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 23 May 2021, 22:21:39
Post by: cloudtastrophe on Mon, 24 May 2021, 04:18:44
Post by: tngpq on Mon, 24 May 2021, 08:11:31
Any chance of a hotswappable PCB?
There is a TKL hotswap PCB project in the works which I believe is exchangeable with h88c.
Post by: avp on Mon, 24 May 2021, 08:17:02
Post by: Adqam64 on Mon, 24 May 2021, 19:09:42
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 10 June 2021, 19:54:16
(https://i.imgur.com/AuvGRLd.png)
In the end, here is what we have. The original 'leaf-spring' kerf-cut design was too flexible, even in a full-plate configuration. So it's been replaced with a modified top-mount, with some added relief through longer mounting arms. More flexible material plates, such as polycarbonate and polypropylene, will not have these relief arms - they will be removed in exchange for a typical top-mount. I quite like the feel of the board with this new full aluminum plate. It's got a sharp tactility and bottom out, but still has a pretty decent amount of flex due to only having 4 mounting point placed around the alphas. If we want firmer, there are stiffer materials out there...
That being said, very pleased to announce that files have been finalized and have been sent off for pre-production prototyping. When those are received, I believe we'll be able to confirm some exciting details such as group-buy dates, pricing, etc.
Has a GB date or price been mentioned for this yet?
No confirmed date yet, hopefully we have that soon. See the above message!
Presumably this can be built as ISO with an appropriate PCB/plate. Will that be supported as an option on purchase? Will plate files be released?
The PCB will support ISO, but I haven't confirmed whether or not ISO compatible plates will be offered in GB yet. If not, I don't think it will be much issue to offer files for people to have their own plates made.
Post by: flarros on Thu, 10 June 2021, 21:16:12
Post by: Polaroid on Fri, 11 June 2021, 01:32:58
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 11 June 2021, 01:34:49
Quickie flex / spacebar video, full PP plate, top-mounted. Gummy worm gives a firmer typing experience.
Post by: noorejji on Fri, 11 June 2021, 01:44:02
Post by: //gainsborough on Fri, 11 June 2021, 11:45:39
Quickie flex / spacebar video, full PP plate, top-mounted. Gummy worm gives a firmer typing experience.
full brass proto!? daaaaaaaaang.
Post by: soloplayer on Fri, 11 June 2021, 11:52:02
Quickie flex / spacebar video, full PP plate, top-mounted. Gummy worm gives a firmer typing experience.
full brass proto!? daaaaaaaaang.
nah it's brass top, by mistake lol
Post by: //gainsborough on Fri, 11 June 2021, 12:57:29
Post by: TheWonderBubble on Fri, 11 June 2021, 13:11:55
Post by: hayasaka on Fri, 11 June 2021, 13:17:45
Post by: Devastator on Sat, 12 June 2021, 12:20:41
Post by: alwaysbless on Sat, 12 June 2021, 14:10:36
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 12 June 2021, 14:48:35
Does it feel like the keyboard is caving in each time you type with that much flex? Thats insane
No, not at all. Feels fine, but afaik this is the most flexible mounting option that'll be offered. I may have to check interest soon if half variants of plastic plates are desired.
"Cost no object" has me lowkey concerned, but this is too beautiful to not put on my watch list. ;D I'm too new to keyboards to really have "endgames," but if I did, I think this just might be one of them.
It won't be anything that hasn't been seen before.
Post by: ENG Studio on Sat, 12 June 2021, 14:57:54
Sent from my Redmi K20 using Tapatalk
Post by: TheWonderBubble on Sat, 12 June 2021, 15:19:52
"Cost no object" has me lowkey concerned, but this is too beautiful to not put on my watch list. ;D I'm too new to keyboards to really have "endgames," but if I did, I think this just might be one of them.
It won't be anything that hasn't been seen before.
I 200% expect it'll be worth it, at this point I'm expecting it'll be a downright steal honestly for the detail you're putting into it. I just hope that I'll have enough time to save up for it before it goes OOS. ;D
Post by: Ustinj on Sun, 20 June 2021, 20:19:33
Here's a quick demo of the top-mounted polypropylene plate with OP BLACK Switches. It can also be mounted in gummy-worm style for a slightly firmer / more solid feel.
Also, here is a demonstration of an aluminum FULL plate in top-mount (not the same as above example). This is more interesting since aluminum is a pretty standard plate material, but here it is paired with Cloudline's mounting points. It's got a sharper feedback and feel compared to the plastic plates, but you can still bottom out the PCB if you press hard enough.
Post by: hpetrovski on Tue, 06 July 2021, 04:53:04
Post by: maximm on Wed, 07 July 2021, 10:19:22
I received some modified test plates and I am very happy with the way they turned out. As mentioned last time, I felt that the full aluminum plate design from before was a little too forgiving and there wasn't enough variety, so I aimed to firm up the feel a bit.Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/AuvGRLd.png)
In the end, here is what we have. The original 'leaf-spring' kerf-cut design was too flexible, even in a full-plate configuration. So it's been replaced with a modified top-mount, with some added relief through longer mounting arms. More flexible material plates, such as polycarbonate and polypropylene, will not have these relief arms - they will be removed in exchange for a typical top-mount. I quite like the feel of the board with this new full aluminum plate. It's got a sharp tactility and bottom out, but still has a pretty decent amount of flex due to only having 4 mounting point placed around the alphas. If we want firmer, there are stiffer materials out there...
That being said, very pleased to announce that files have been finalized and have been sent off for pre-production prototyping. When those are received, I believe we'll be able to confirm some exciting details such as group-buy dates, pricing, etc.Has a GB date or price been mentioned for this yet?
No confirmed date yet, hopefully we have that soon. See the above message!Presumably this can be built as ISO with an appropriate PCB/plate. Will that be supported as an option on purchase? Will plate files be released?
The PCB will support ISO, but I haven't confirmed whether or not ISO compatible plates will be offered in GB yet. If not, I don't think it will be much issue to offer files for people to have their own plates made.
Please please please offer ISO plates!
Post by: SwirlCables on Sat, 10 July 2021, 01:03:07
Post by: achingfingers on Wed, 14 July 2021, 13:19:31
Post by: tugg on Thu, 22 July 2021, 13:01:56
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 22 July 2021, 13:51:31
(https://i.imgur.com/brBl2zu.png)
Post by: hali on Thu, 22 July 2021, 13:53:25
Post by: Fatty-Do-Do on Thu, 22 July 2021, 19:02:22
I received some modified test plates and I am very happy with the way they turned out. As mentioned last time, I felt that the full aluminum plate design from before was a little too forgiving and there wasn't enough variety, so I aimed to firm up the feel a bit.Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/AuvGRLd.png)
In the end, here is what we have. The original 'leaf-spring' kerf-cut design was too flexible, even in a full-plate configuration. So it's been replaced with a modified top-mount, with some added relief through longer mounting arms. More flexible material plates, such as polycarbonate and polypropylene, will not have these relief arms - they will be removed in exchange for a typical top-mount. I quite like the feel of the board with this new full aluminum plate. It's got a sharp tactility and bottom out, but still has a pretty decent amount of flex due to only having 4 mounting point placed around the alphas. If we want firmer, there are stiffer materials out there...
That being said, very pleased to announce that files have been finalized and have been sent off for pre-production prototyping. When those are received, I believe we'll be able to confirm some exciting details such as group-buy dates, pricing, etc.Has a GB date or price been mentioned for this yet?
No confirmed date yet, hopefully we have that soon. See the above message!Presumably this can be built as ISO with an appropriate PCB/plate. Will that be supported as an option on purchase? Will plate files be released?
The PCB will support ISO, but I haven't confirmed whether or not ISO compatible plates will be offered in GB yet. If not, I don't think it will be much issue to offer files for people to have their own plates made.
Please please please offer ISO plates!
Seconded. Pleas gimme my ISO.
Post by: milka158 on Fri, 23 July 2021, 02:53:45
Post by: mr_foggy on Fri, 30 July 2021, 09:52:21
Post by: alwaysbless on Fri, 30 July 2021, 19:04:52
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 30 July 2021, 20:01:04
Scroll to the bottom for a TL;DR...
I've spent many hours putting together an engraving that I felt completely satisfied with for Cloudline. Now that I've finally found something that I think fits the theme and looks the way I want it, I'm happy to present the FINAL engraving for Cloudline. I want to recap the different iterations of engravings that this board has gone through. Of course, I don't want this to come off as me being fickle or undecisive - IMO, it's normal for designs to change, improve (subjective), and go through stages to get to their final form. This is just a log to share the thought process that went into each stage.
Engraving 0
The very first iteration of the engraving was a logo. I decided I didn't want to establish myself as a brand, so that was scrapped quickly. It was obvious that most people would prefer for their keyboards to not be branded with a large, visible-in-use designer logo as well (except for some goated boards...). I ordered my first prototype with this engraving.
(https://i.imgur.com/cAKXDp8.png)
Issues:
- It was a 'brand logo'
Engraving 1
It made more sense for the keyboard to be engraved with something related to the board itself, rather than the designer. I didn't want to leave the top-case plain, as I wanted the board to be easily identifiable from any angle. A blank top-case would look like any other blank-top TKL. The first cloud-related engraving on the top case was a simple cloud with an underline, centered above the arrow keys.
(https://i.imgur.com/pMewEOv.png)
It was at this stage where I looked at my keyboard on my desk, and had a really strong vision of a clean rectangular engraving, looking like a long window with clouds spanning the length of it.
Issues:
- Instead of the 'elegant and minimal' look I was aiming for, it felt 'wimpy and underwhelming'.
- I'll be honest - this engraving is still good to me. It probably could have worked if I tweaked with the thickness of the stroke.
Engraving 2
After reflecting on the overall board design, I decided I wanted something a bit more detailed and eye-catching. After all, the internal aesthetic of the board definitely had a lot of thought put into it. So I started working on drafts for a potential 'long engraving'. It was a struggle to gauge the amount of detail that would work on an engraving, especially since the physical scale of designing on a computer screen is a lot different from actually seeing it to-size in person. I ended up feeling satisfied with one of the WORST engraving iterations I've yet had. I'm almost embarrassed to look back on this one...
(https://i.imgur.com/eyBj26C.png)
A major issue I ran into is that in order to reduce the artificial symmetry of the logo, I created empty spaces in the sky that I felt needed to be filled with a moon and stars. I got carried away, and I'm not afraid to admit it. I lost sight of my original idea, and the result strayed further and further from being a clean, elegant rectangle with clouds.
Issues:
- It was weird.
- It felt like a 'mess of lines', disorganized and unsure in what it was trying to represent.
- Way too detailed for an engraving of its size.
- Shannie suggested I work on reducing the 'symmetry' of the logo - symmetry in clouds is unnatural and artificial.
Engraving 3
After a few weeks, I looked at Engraving 2 and realized it was a bit too weird, a bit too abstract. I tried to move a bit closer towards my original idea of a 'rectangle' and decided to close out the edges. I thickened the stroke width, simplified some details in the clouds, and came up with this. This is the current engraving that we have coming on the pre-production prototypes.
(https://i.imgur.com/8EMfpok.png)
Issues:
- It's 'cute', mainly due to the style of moon and stars.
- The moon and stars strayed from the overall theme.
- It felt a little 'unclean' compared to the rest of the board.
Engraving 4 (The Final Iteration)
Somewhere inside my head, a tiny voice was whispering that it didn't really fit the theme. As the days went on, that voice became louder, urging me to sit down and work on more designs until I had something that I was completely happy with. I decided I'd save the moon and stars for another idea later down the road. Struggling to find out what I was going for, I really tried to focus on my original motive for redesigning the first engraving - I wanted something a bit more detailed, but not 'dirty'. It became obvious what the issues with Engraving 3 were. I wanted to clean up the corners, reduce the cuteness of the engraving, and tie it closer into the overall theme and surrounding design cues of the board.
I made a few iterations that I felt happy with, but thankfully Shannie (my partner and collaborator on this project) made me take a step back and look at my design again... her response: "bc the clouds you have rn feel a bit clearly blocked off, it still looks good but it is like very symmetrical when clouds normally are not" - it was not the response I was hoping for, but the response I needed.
For those wanting a clean, blank top - this update probably won't be what you're looking for. But I'm excited to share this final engraving, as I now can confidently say I've found the one that clicked for me. I'd like to thank Shannie again for helping on this project, her critique and advice were invaluable to putting this engraving together (and the birds! She drew the birds!). Without her, this board would definitely not be the end-product it is today.
(https://i.imgur.com/5gXtOb0.png)
The engraving is a rectangle, as I had originally anticipated. But Shannie's suggestions to make the engraving assymmetrical forced me to come up with a different, more dynamic composition for the clouds. As things neared completion, the idea to 'open' up the rectangle where it meets the sky came to mind. I used Shannie's bird silhouette illustrations at the border, showing them flying free and 'escaping' the box that borders the engraving, figuratively breaking free of the engraving (over the sky). I'm happy with this one. It's cleaner than the previous iterations, it captures the original vision I had, and remains true to the original theme of Cloudline (and Shannie likes it - very important!).
Here's a full image of the top of the board. Keep in mind, it's hard to judge an engraving from renders due to scale - in making this, I would constantly render sized to match a keycap I had in hand, in order to gauge the thickness of the strokes.
(https://i.imgur.com/dJ1B9Js.png)
Upcoming pre-production prototypes will have Engraving 3, but I've requested for some sheets to be engraved with the final engraving to give myself a physical reference.
(https://i.imgur.com/OesNgZN.png)
I will be taking some time to update the images in the IC to reflect the latest changes.
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 30 July 2021, 20:05:53
Status Update, July 30th, 2021
Still awaiting the pre-production round of prototypes from the manufacturer. Also engraving references mentioned above have been ordered (will be on sheet metal). Prices have not yet been confirmed, GB date not yet confirmed, but I believe these details will be coming soon.
Post by: thejje on Sat, 31 July 2021, 01:41:06
Post by: Hell-es on Sat, 31 July 2021, 05:28:14
Hoping to get one +1 for iso plate
Post by: chinchilla on Sat, 31 July 2021, 08:36:03
Post by: ai06L on Sat, 31 July 2021, 11:11:35
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 31 July 2021, 12:42:06
Post by: ManiacMarc on Thu, 05 August 2021, 23:21:41
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 06 August 2021, 00:35:00
Such a bootiful keeb, but it's a shame it's a WKL.
Avail in full layout as well.
Post by: Grant-GG on Fri, 06 August 2021, 03:59:06
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 06 August 2021, 23:44:31
Well, the moment is coming soon ... so I think now is a pretty good time to stress this message.
The upcoming prototypes will not be completely reflective of the final board design, but should be a pretty perfect representation of the board in terms of build process, sound, and feel.
Here are some key points that may be different:
- Feet Cutouts - The upcoming prototypes will have circular feet cutouts. I will be experimenting with longer die-cut feet cutouts instead of the standard circular shape.
- Engraving - The top case on the prototypes will have the older engravings. I will be sampling the final engraving as well as some miniscule tweaks to the bottom weight's engraving.
- Colors - The colors may be tweaked a bit. Anodization is a tricky manual process.
- Finish - I will be deciding between a finer matte silver, versus a more lustrous silver.
(https://i.imgur.com/EncSi7U.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/pdXM1VX.png)
Post by: Grant-GG on Sat, 07 August 2021, 04:07:41
Post by: TomatoMan on Sat, 07 August 2021, 17:52:17
Post by: o3okevin on Sat, 07 August 2021, 20:18:15
Lovely board! Not huge fun of the big engravings, out of them all i like the engraving 1 the most. Hopefully there is gonna be an EU vendor!There is, MKB.EU has 50 units and Prototypist has 20
Post by: Grant-GG on Mon, 09 August 2021, 05:21:20
Post by: TomatoMan on Mon, 09 August 2021, 11:30:03
Would it be possible to have you post an anodized sample aluminum sheet to clarify the color?
Hopeffuly I'll be able to get 1!! :thumb:
Post by: Grant-GG on Mon, 09 August 2021, 11:39:37
!? thxWould it be possible to have you post an anodized sample aluminum sheet to clarify the color?
Hopeffuly I'll be able to get 1!! :thumb:
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Grant-GG on Fri, 13 August 2021, 12:27:51
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 13 August 2021, 17:36:03
Is it likely that GB will be in September instead of this month?
Functional prototypes have been shipped and are on the way to Cannonkeys. They will probably arrive sometime next week. I would have to discuss with vendors to find a time which group buy is feasible.
I have a final production prototype with all updated engravings and feet cutouts in the works as well - GB will likely be after that final prototype arrives, which I would estimate to be sometime near the end of August (possibly early September). But I'd like to wrap up and confirm some group buy details before then, so everyone could be better prepared.
Post by: DuellM on Sat, 14 August 2021, 21:05:42
Man Gmk Apollo looks way different from what I expected it to turn out from the renders. Since you have the actual keyset are you happy with the way the colors turned out?Is it likely that GB will be in September instead of this month?
Functional prototypes have been shipped and are on the way to Cannonkeys. They will probably arrive sometime next week. I would have to discuss with vendors to find a time which group buy is feasible.
I have a final production prototype with all updated engravings and feet cutouts in the works as well - GB will likely be after that final prototype arrives, which I would estimate to be sometime near the end of August (possibly early September). But I'd like to wrap up and confirm some group buy details before then, so everyone could be better prepared.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 19 August 2021, 00:30:13
Prototypes arrived a day or two ago to Cloudline's facilitating vendor, Cannon Keys. Big thanks to Upas to sharing a few photos.
We are currently waiting for prototype PCBs to come in, in which we will then ship them off for some community builds and external opinions. Again, the engraving on the top of the board here is not up to date.
I haven't seen the boards in person yet, but I can say for sure from the images:
- I felt the first prototype's blue was a bit too saturated, and overcompensated this time - the resulting blue here is suuuper desaturated. It's really nice though - I will definitely be saving this icey cool blue for another project. But in hindsight, looking at my existing prototype's blue in other lighting conditions actually seemed to fit what I was looking for. So I've got a final prototype with updated engravings coming in the original blue.
- The dark gray is very dark - this is kind of what I expected, as I wanted the dark gray option to be near black (but not quite), so it could be an alternative to those who would normally choose black. I hope the slight green shade isn't present in person - will inspect this color when it arrives to me.
(https://i.imgur.com/QZdviwE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8yft0Ck.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8HOrU7Q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/r2jI4S2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xArNq0A.jpg)
Here's the original blue that I'm going to fall back to:
(https://i.imgur.com/VbKgQCM.jpg)
Post by: RedBananaBread on Thu, 19 August 2021, 13:31:08
Post by: tarokeebs on Fri, 20 August 2021, 15:02:55
Post by: baka jiken on Sat, 21 August 2021, 02:17:57
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 21 August 2021, 02:48:00
The reason I went with a very dark gray was because I wanted a dark shade to frame dark gray caps. Black does this well, but I haven't seen black anodization doesn't have that 'metallic' look of gray and other lighter colors. This shade of gray does it wonderfully - however, this sample seems to have a very very slight hint of green in certain lighting conditions. Kind of cool, but going to see if this is consistently reproduced.
Sample compared to GMK Nines and WoB.
(https://i.imgur.com/IRaYHmh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0xGJlCk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FT0AcEM.jpg)
Post by: misotsu on Sat, 21 August 2021, 02:53:04
Post by: Grant-GG on Sat, 21 August 2021, 04:15:01
Post by: hzsh on Sat, 21 August 2021, 11:40:00
Post by: CloudyEyes on Sat, 21 August 2021, 22:59:11
Post by: brightsol on Mon, 23 August 2021, 12:21:17
Post by: enricodg on Tue, 24 August 2021, 00:25:43
Pretty sure will sell out in under a minute tho.
Post by: Heritage.T.A on Tue, 24 August 2021, 02:18:21
Post by: macclack on Mon, 06 September 2021, 23:51:25
Post by: treeleaf64 on Sat, 11 September 2021, 13:26:33
Post by: nuuw on Sat, 11 September 2021, 19:05:48
Post by: TellyVee on Mon, 13 September 2021, 01:34:08
also, 500 units? this is gonna be like American shoppers during Black Friday sales, considering this thread's been read 135,683 times... any chance there will be more units later on to keep up with the demand?
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 13 September 2021, 01:44:56
Absolutely stunning. I really enjoy the design. Would be nice to see a white color option. Clouds are white so why not make Cloudline white aswell? :thumb:
I wanted to offer a classic silver, and wanted to limit to 4 color choices; white and silver were too close for me to have both... both colors were tested and it was a difficult decision, but one I'm quite set on for this run.
Post by: mgdufoe on Mon, 13 September 2021, 18:45:52
Post by: pleasega on Tue, 14 September 2021, 01:37:33
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 17 September 2021, 10:19:52
It's a date! The Cloudline group-buy sale is slated to open on Saturday, October 9th. Each vendor will have their own time schedule to open sale, so keep an eye out for those details later. In addition, we are working to get out finalized pricing very soon as well, so stay tuned. We're making some minor last-minute changes like the consideration of custom-moulded feet, etc. that may affect costs a tad bit.
And to top it all off, I'd like to also announce that the cap on this project is being nudged to 650 total spots, with each vendor getting a proportional increase. Hopefully that means everyone who wants a board will get one. Thank you so much all for your support on this project so far. Now we begin the exciting few weeks leading up into the sale.
(https://i.imgur.com/iopcYxM.png)
Post by: SolidCactus on Fri, 17 September 2021, 10:22:44
Post by: Bub on Fri, 17 September 2021, 10:24:50
Post by: sub0001 on Fri, 17 September 2021, 10:49:49
Post by: o3okevin on Fri, 17 September 2021, 11:36:44
Post by: Whale_algorithm on Sat, 18 September 2021, 21:19:27
Post by: SuperSonixx on Sat, 18 September 2021, 22:58:41
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 20 September 2021, 17:16:45
Standard kitting will include Cloudline (aluminum case, brass weight, internal SS frame), full FR4 plate, PCB + DB, hardware, custom feet, o-ring, and a carrying case + microfiber. Pricing for other regions and extras will be released as they come in.
Here's an album of images containing the latest blue sample in different lighting conditions. The planned blue is the one with the Q on it, from GMK Modern Dolch:
(https://i.imgur.com/acYxV8L.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IMpBw2v.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DNMYFfN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dllrfAR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iNeATwH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oNX71J4.jpg)
Post by: _rubik on Mon, 20 September 2021, 18:20:46
Pricing at Cannon Keys has been announced, at $575 per standard kit.
Standard kitting will include Cloudline (aluminum case, brass weight, internal SS frame), full FR4 plate, PCB + DB, hardware, custom feet, o-ring, and a carrying case + microfiber. Pricing for other regions and extras will be released as they come in.
Here's an album of images containing the latest blue sample in different lighting conditions. The planned blue is the one with the Q on it, from GMK Modern Dolch:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/acYxV8L.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/IMpBw2v.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/DNMYFfN.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/dllrfAR.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/iNeATwH.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/oNX71J4.jpg)
Those look fantastic! Any change you have similar samples for the Dystopia Red?
Post by: treeleaf64 on Mon, 20 September 2021, 20:20:38
Post by: Ustinj on Mon, 20 September 2021, 22:33:10
Pricing at Cannon Keys has been announced, at $575 per standard kit.
Standard kitting will include Cloudline (aluminum case, brass weight, internal SS frame), full FR4 plate, PCB + DB, hardware, custom feet, o-ring, and a carrying case + microfiber. Pricing for other regions and extras will be released as they come in.
Here's an album of images containing the latest blue sample in different lighting conditions. The planned blue is the one with the Q on it, from GMK Modern Dolch:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/acYxV8L.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/IMpBw2v.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/DNMYFfN.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/dllrfAR.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/iNeATwH.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/oNX71J4.jpg)
Those look fantastic! Any change you have similar samples for the Dystopia Red?
I don't have the red board in-hand, and photos won't be as telling as a video - I think best way to get an idea for it is to see it when it's built on-stream (will be announced coming soon). That way the way the anodization plays with light can be demonstrated as well.
Vendors malding :))
What do you mean?
Post by: Hell-es on Wed, 22 September 2021, 14:36:04
If price is same in € it sound quite good to me.
:thumb:
Post by: _rubik on Wed, 22 September 2021, 16:24:38
Those look fantastic! Any change you have similar samples for the Dystopia Red?
I don't have the red board in-hand, and photos won't be as telling as a video - I think best way to get an idea for it is to see it when it's built on-stream (will be announced coming soon). That way the way the anodization plays with light can be demonstrated as well.
Patiently waiting for a build stream announcement has never been harder :-X
Post by: tonyjones on Wed, 22 September 2021, 19:41:05
Post by: dededecline on Wed, 22 September 2021, 20:16:38
$575 is a steal, I'm definitely in to get one. This should be at least $900.
:confused: it should be $900 based on what?
Post by: paperassgasket on Wed, 22 September 2021, 20:34:44
$575 is a steal, I'm definitely in to get one. This should be at least $900.
:confused: it should be $900 based on what?
If you were in the discord you'd know that tonyjones is referring to the price being based on a parodies.
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 23 September 2021, 00:09:01
UK & EU standard kit prices added.
The dark gray / off-black unit will be built by Lulzthax on stream tomorrow at 6PM PDT!
https://www.twitch.tv/lulzthax
$575 is a steal, I'm definitely in to get one. This should be at least $900.
:confused: it should be $900 based on what?
If you were in the discord you'd know that tonyjones is referring to the price being based on a parodies.
Oh boy, I don't even know what it's referring to... :))
Post by: crysleyan on Thu, 23 September 2021, 00:10:58
There’s a build stream tomorrow with lulzthax I believeThose look fantastic! Any change you have similar samples for the Dystopia Red?
I don't have the red board in-hand, and photos won't be as telling as a video - I think best way to get an idea for it is to see it when it's built on-stream (will be announced coming soon). That way the way the anodization plays with light can be demonstrated as well.
Patiently waiting for a build stream announcement has never been harder :-X
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 23 September 2021, 00:45:21
There’s a build stream tomorrow with lulzthax I believeThose look fantastic! Any change you have similar samples for the Dystopia Red?
I don't have the red board in-hand, and photos won't be as telling as a video - I think best way to get an idea for it is to see it when it's built on-stream (will be announced coming soon). That way the way the anodization plays with light can be demonstrated as well.
Patiently waiting for a build stream announcement has never been harder :-X
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you for the reminder, updated
Post by: Ustinj on Thu, 23 September 2021, 20:08:12
First stream is going live now..
Post by: Snoop_Gee on Fri, 24 September 2021, 06:54:08
https://dailyclack.com/search?q=Cloudline
AU: Daily Clack, 65 spots, $865.6 AUD
Post by: Jo_hannes on Fri, 24 September 2021, 07:13:17
your vendor doesn't even have it listed on their website :/
Yeah, but it's over two weeks to go until these go on sale, dude. :/
/Johannes
Post by: Snoop_Gee on Fri, 24 September 2021, 07:30:28
your vendor doesn't even have it listed on their website :/
Yeah, but it's over two weeks to go until these go on sale, dude. :/
/Johannes
i thought there would be pre-order link at least.
Post by: wencan008 on Fri, 24 September 2021, 10:11:32
your vendor doesn't even have it listed on their website :/
Yeah, but it's over two weeks to go until these go on sale, dude. :/
/Johannes
i thought there would be pre-order link at least.
This is a group buy, not an in stock item. There's a limited number of units and much more demand than supply. The October 9th date is when the group buy goes live and a group buy is already kinda a preorder. There's not going to be a preorder for a preorder
Post by: Gvalch_ca on Fri, 24 September 2021, 18:18:01
Post by: ylothar on Sat, 25 September 2021, 13:33:12
Maybe you can think of releasing at least one type of plate in ISO layout (FR4 or aluminum) :cool:
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 25 September 2021, 17:57:40
The build stream went so much better than I was hoping - a total relief, and IMO the board looked much better than expected on stream! Thank you Lulzthax for the great build. Here's the VOD if anyone missed it... I definitely recommend checking it out:
VOD: [/b][/size][/color]
I hope you can rethink about ISO plates: it would be a real shame especially here in Europe not to have ISO plates during the GB.
Maybe you can think of releasing at least one type of plate in ISO layout (FR4 or aluminum) :cool:
I'll chat with the EU / UK vendors about this and see what can be done.
Post by: Ustinj on Sat, 25 September 2021, 18:10:03
(https://i.imgur.com/rnKx4Zm.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/USuib5g.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Mepq8bU.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/dzSGE3C.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RLqGajy.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/DUR1ufb.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/eNL2CZn.png)
Post by: ylothar on Sun, 26 September 2021, 03:16:37
Quote
I'll chat with the EU / UK vendors about this and see what can be done.
Sir you are really great!
I hope then that the chat is positive, fingers crossed ... ;D
Post by: apexshikari on Sun, 26 September 2021, 03:19:45
some random snaps from the build:(https://media4.giphy.com/media/Z21HJj2kz9uBG/giphy.gif)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/rnKx4Zm.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/USuib5g.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/Mepq8bU.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/dzSGE3C.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/RLqGajy.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/DUR1ufb.png)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/eNL2CZn.png)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 29 September 2021, 16:45:22
A big thanks to Minterly, who will be building a Cloudline on stream today around 6pm PDT!
https://www.twitch.tv/minterly
The prototype unit is red, and will be built with a full polycarbonate plate with Seal switches (lightly lubed with 205g0, I did not have unfortunately).
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 29 September 2021, 23:50:07
Big announcement regarding standard kit and pricing.
The default plate, which was FR4, is now being replaced with a full aluminum plate. As a result, the price of the standard kit is slightly increased from $575 to $585. Respective vendor prices will be finalized before sale date.
This change was mulled over along with some previous feedback - after now having tested both plates (and finding that the sound profile was closer to my preference), it was decided that a keyboard at this price point could use a slightly more premium default plate. For those interested in the alu plate, this will save them a good amount on the kit overall. For those interested in having both an alu & fr4 plate, it will also cost less overall.
Post by: Adqam64 on Thu, 30 September 2021, 07:54:45
Post by: ylothar on Thu, 30 September 2021, 15:07:03
Post by: Neely_12 on Thu, 30 September 2021, 15:11:21
For those who want ISO it's a wasted cost, however. Oh well.I mean it's better for the majority, but I understand your frustration.
Post by: STUDIOBLB on Thu, 30 September 2021, 16:50:38
Post by: rolecks on Mon, 04 October 2021, 18:46:19
Post by: kokugatsu on Mon, 04 October 2021, 20:41:33
Post by: keguira on Tue, 05 October 2021, 07:54:13
And about ISO the response is...
It seems prototypist will sell ISO plates but no information about a possible region lock
Post by: noorejji on Tue, 05 October 2021, 11:34:28
It says region locked for both proto and myk on the discord, but I don’t know if uk is its own region. If proto offers iso I hope myk will also.And about ISO the response is...
It seems prototypist will sell ISO plates but no information about a possible region lock
Post by: keguira on Tue, 05 October 2021, 13:54:05
It says region locked for both proto and myk on the discord, but I don’t know if uk is its own region. If proto offers iso I hope myk will also.
Quote from an admin of MyKeyboard's Discord : We are going to have ISO plates
Post by: Ustinj on Wed, 06 October 2021, 18:36:40
Post by: Ustinj on Fri, 08 October 2021, 18:55:37
The closest-to-final prototype is currently being built by Alex!
https://www.twitch.tv/alexotos
Post by: Whale_algorithm on Sat, 09 October 2021, 10:22:19
Post by: Zestrion on Sat, 09 October 2021, 10:31:00
Is cannon keys actually sold out, or has the GB still not opened. I've been refreshing for 22 minutes.
I'm sorry.... (https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/722809404042510446/896419358702727228/unknown.png)
Post by: Whale_algorithm on Sat, 09 October 2021, 10:34:13
Post by: _rubik on Sat, 09 October 2021, 14:26:33
Edit: for future reference, their custom checkout is https://hype.cannonkeys.com/
Post by: ์ี่Nueng on Sat, 09 October 2021, 20:32:37
Really want to get Brass/Silver :(
Post by: ์ี่Nueng on Sat, 09 October 2021, 20:36:19
Oh ok. I didn't really understand that. Too bad.
Yes, too bad. No any explanation for new customer like me.
Post by: heyimpanda on Sat, 09 October 2021, 23:15:37
Oh ok. I didn't really understand that. Too bad.
Yes, too bad. No any explanation for new customer like me.
The IC page (the very one you just posted on) links to https://docs.cannonkeys.com/raffle-queue which gives a thorough explanation of how it works.
The CK newsletters linked to this IC page (9/17, 9/24), said
Quote
Cloudline sale details
There will be 20 brass top special editions sold through our custom checkout on 10/9 at 10AM ET. These special editions will not be region locked and will cost $800.
At 11AM ET on the same day, 260 standard edition units will be sold for $585 on our custom checkout. These standard editions will be region locked.
on 10/1, and on 10/8 it links to the reference product page, which said
Quote
THIS IS A REFERENCE PAGE FOR THE UPCOMING CLOUDLINE TKL KEYBOARD GROUP BUY.
BRASS TOP SPECIAL EDITION WILL BE SOLD ON 10/9 AT 10AM ET AND WILL NOT BE REGION LOCKED. ALUMINUM TOP STANDARD EDITION WILL BE SOLD ON 10/9 AT 11AM ET AND WILL BE REGION LOCKED. BOTH SALES WILL USE OUR CUSTOM CHECKOUT.
which also links to https://docs.cannonkeys.com/raffle-queue.
So I'd argue it is very far from "no explanation".
Post by: finalarcadia on Sun, 10 October 2021, 01:47:06
Post by: WXYaa on Tue, 12 October 2021, 13:49:03
I have a problem to make an order too.
Really want to get Brass/Silver :(
Don't feel bad, most people didn't get the Brass edition. There were only 20 for all regions. I missed the Hype link during Sat75 R2 GB because I didn't read the instruction. It's also worth point out (since you didn't read) that the alum version was regionally locked. Non NA orders would be cancelled, or would not have gone through.
Post by: rainb1ood on Fri, 15 October 2021, 09:56:02
Post by: Ensaum on Fri, 15 October 2021, 11:17:35
is the group buy live?
It's been done for a week