Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:29:13
After repeated (friendly) requests from friends in the community, I'm working on an after-market housing for the Leopold FC660C keyboard, a sub-TKL board that enjoys the use of Topre switches. My primary design objective (i.e., fun) on this one has been to accentuate the compact nature of the board to make it feel formidable—aka heavy AF. More on that below.
First, let me just say: if you're down, please fill out my two-question survey to indicate your interest. (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QNVGWWJ)
I have been prototyping for several weeks in SLA (https://www.instagram.com/p/BfY2fwilrNY/?taken-by=norbauer), but I just finished my first functional prototype in metal, and I'm quite happy with it. As such, I thought now might be a good time to share some images and getting feedback.
Please note that the images below are of an unfinished raw aluminum and brass prototype—no anodizing, powder coating, etc.—but they should at least give a good sense of the shape and design.
(https://norbauercdn.blob.core.windows.net/webshares/fc660c/fc660c-first-prototype%20(1%20of%204).jpg)
(https://norbauercdn.blob.core.windows.net/webshares/fc660c/fc660c-first-prototype%20(2%20of%204).jpg)
(https://norbauercdn.blob.core.windows.net/webshares/fc660c/fc660c-first-prototype%20(3%20of%204).jpg)
(https://norbauercdn.blob.core.windows.net/webshares/fc660c/fc660c-first-prototype%20(4%20of%204).jpg)
Design features:
- The Heavy-6 has a native slope angle that matches that of the FC660C (without its flip-out feet deployed).
- All units will come with a brushed brass (or PVD-coated, TBD) back plate, which roughly doubles the weight of the housing.
- An unusual contoured profile along the side, a riff on what I did with the popular Norbaforce (https://shop.norbauer.com/products/the-norbaforce-cnc-aluminum-housing-for-realforce-keyboards) design.
- Custom-molded rubber feet that maximize surface area for a nice grip, again based on positive feedback I've gotten on the Norbaforce design.
- The sub-PCB sits on standoffs screwed into the rear cover. This is Hasu-controller compatible.
- At the suggestion of Olivia and others, I've decided to add a logo badge for the first time. This will be metal and enamel and centered on the rear of the case. I'm still working on the design and sourcing of this but will post renders/photos when I have a better sense of the approach. See below for a preliminary notion.
(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/logo-badge-a.png)
Things that, in my opinion, don't really make sense, so no need to suggest them. :p
- Centered USB port (internal cable won't reach)
- USB-C
Tentative Finishes (in ascending order of cash-dollars):
- Clear Type II anodized (silver)
- Black Type III (hard) anodized
- Photographer's Gray (https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/photographer-gray.jpg) textured powder coat
- Motorsport Yellow (https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/motorsport-yellow.jpg) textured powder coat
- Custom powder coat
Pricing: I won't know until I have a sense of the quantities and final finishes. Should be similar to stuff I've done in the past, depending on how much the brass rear plate drives up the cost. But, just so nobody is disappointed, let's tentatively go with "expensive." ;D
(https://norbauercdn.blob.core.windows.net/webshares/fc660c/weight.jpg)
Again, please fill out the survey (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QNVGWWJ) if interested, and any/all feedback and criticism are welcome below. Thanks!
Post by: xondat on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:30:23
Good work though Norb, excited to see this progress :thumb:
Post by: hayt on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:30:26
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:34:05
It's so tall
Totally. Partly this is the "brick" aesthetic I'm going for, but also just some of the design constraints of reverse engineering this particular design. The whole sub-PCB thing is kind of weird and annoying to work around. So I decided to embrace it and make it part of the singular aesthetic vision of the case. The obstacle is the way, as the Stoics say. :cool:
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:40:18
I will do even more unholy things to get risers that bring the angle up to the fc660c with it's feet out.
Post by: Dead Encryption on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:44:10
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:47:34
I'm in, the only thing I am curious about is having the option for feet / raised angle.
I will do unholy things to get this in my hands.
I will do even more unholy things to get risers that bring the angle up to the fc660c with it's feet out.
That option is definitely on the table, and that's why I have the survey. :) It just usually adds a lot to the cost (slightly surprisingly), so I wanted to see how many people require it. I would likely make contoured, low-profile risers similar to like I did for the Norbaforce.
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1571/5135/products/Norbatouch_24_of_27_1024x1024.jpg?v=1511548526)
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1571/5135/products/Norbatouch_26_of_27_1024x1024.jpg?v=1511548526)
Post by: Dead Encryption on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:50:58
Post by: avid on Wed, 21 March 2018, 16:57:11
Post by: Rob27shred on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:00:21
Edit: I'm for extra risers as well, even if they are something that has to be permanently installed. I definitely grown very accustom to the height of my 660C & M with their feet extended.
Post by: Vigrith on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:02:26
My one request is that Venice Beach makes a come back, though if you allow for custom powdered options I guess I can just get that done regardless of whether or not you offer it as standard.
Very exciting!
PS: Glad to see your logo included.
Post by: The_judge_168 on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:23:13
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:26:50
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:33:25
Anyone requested anything for the FC980 series?? Because that's my jam.
I quite like it myself, but it's a pretty big one to make a CNC case for. The cost of CNC housings tend to grow non-linearly with size, so I often hesitate about those. Perhaps at some point though. I really should draw one up and just get some quotes.
Post by: olivia on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:39:13
Post by: Wetherbee on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:39:19
Your logo is the design. It is instantly recognizable. Let the design be your signature.
A regular atelier wouldn't put their logo on the back of a nice suit. For those that care about labels, they place it tastefully on the inside of the blazer, like the approach you took with the Norbaforce.
The purpose of logos is for people to show off a brand - the intersection of conspicuous consumption and marketing. This item goes in your house - who are you showing off the brand to? Do you really need to be reminded that Norbauer made this case? Worse is that the logo design has multiple colors that detract from the asthetic. It reminds me of the colors and shape of the old Osprey logo on backpacks. Osprey finally decided to simplify their logo to a white logo because the original oval colored logo really clashed with several of the color options they offered and just looked dated.
If I was forced to live with a logo or branding on my keyboard I think the best solution was the Evil80 group buy, where users could create their own logo and have it machined and anodized in the color of their choice, both on the front and the bottom. In my case, I just left the logo blank.
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:40:41
Post by: Vigrith on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:49:46
Not a fan of visible logos.
Your logo is the design. It is instantly recognizable. Let the design be your signature.
A regular atelier wouldn't put their logo on the back of a nice suit. For those that care about labels, they place it tastefully on the inside of the blazer, like the approach you took with the Norbaforce.
The purpose of logos is for people to show off a brand - the intersection of conspicuous consumption and marketing. This item goes in your house - who are you showing off the brand to? Do you really need to be reminded that Norbauer made this case? Worse is that the logo design has multiple colors that detract from the asthetic. It reminds me of the colors and shape of the old Osprey logo on backpacks. Osprey finally decided to simplify their logo to a white logo because the original oval colored logo really clashed with several of the color options they offered and just looked dated.
If I was forced to live with a logo or branding on my keyboard I think the best solution was the Evil80 group buy, where users could create their own logo and have it machined and anodized in the color of their choice, both on the front and the bottom. In my case, I just left the logo blank.
I understand the sentiment, and I do agree that Norbauer doesn't need branding for people to know the case is of his design - however, I think the way it is incorporated here is quite tasteful and the logo itself is pretty cool. I can see why people wouldn't like it but I also think it's fairly inoffensively placed where it is.
Keyboards aren't suits and to me this adds to the design rather than taking away from it, not necessarily as a branding statement or "show off" but just as an addon.
Post by: Burt Macklin on Wed, 21 March 2018, 17:50:16
Survey done,
and as before:
EU proxy, please :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 18:11:19
Not a fan of visible logos.
Your logo is the design. It is instantly recognizable. Let the design be your signature.
A regular atelier wouldn't put their logo on the back of a nice suit. For those that care about labels, they place it tastefully on the inside of the blazer, like the approach you took with the Norbaforce.
The purpose of logos is for people to show off a brand - the intersection of conspicuous consumption and marketing. This item goes in your house - who are you showing off the brand to? Do you really need to be reminded that Norbauer made this case? Worse is that the logo design has multiple colors that detract from the asthetic. It reminds me of the colors and shape of the old Osprey logo on backpacks. Osprey finally decided to simplify their logo to a white logo because the original oval colored logo really clashed with several of the color options they offered and just looked dated.
If I was forced to live with a logo or branding on my keyboard I think the best solution was the Evil80 group buy, where users could create their own logo and have it machined and anodized in the color of their choice, both on the front and the bottom. In my case, I just left the logo blank.
I understand the sentiment, and I do agree that Norbauer doesn't need branding for people to know the case is of his design - however, I think the way it is incorporated here is quite tasteful and the logo itself is pretty cool. I can see why people wouldn't like it but I also think it's fairly inoffensively placed where it is.
Keyboards aren't suits and to me this adds to the design rather than taking away from it, not necessarily as a branding statement or "show off" but just as an addon.
Yes, this is pretty much the rationale. I'm already on the record as kind of hating conspicuous branding and wanting to avoid it on my stuff, but I've been surprised by how many people have expressly asked me to add some kind of "maker's mark," and this is my small gesture in that direction. I personally love the branding on a certain narrow set of things (Schoolhouse Electric lamps and clocks, Leica cameras, Montblanc pens and leather goods) and hate it on others (clothing, and pretty much everything else). I think it really just depends on the execution, my feelings about and sense of personal connection to the company/maker, and how visually obtrusive it is.
I mean, if for some odd reason people want to show that their case is something that came from me, well, I'm flattered and don't mind obliging, but I do want to keep it unobtrusive, so my requirements are: a) it be visually subtle and 2) actually add to the aesthetic properties of the object. I happen to love enamel-and-metal badges, though, and I think I could do something cool with it. But don't worry: if I can't find a way to pull it off nicely, I'll just leave it blank. As I see it now, the enamel color will vary based on which finish you select and should be complementary to that finish.
Re Wetherbee's point about home use, a lot of people actually use their keyboards in workplaces and view it as one of the few ways of adding something unique to their space, so a bit of signaling is actually a (perhaps guilty) part of the pleasure for some people. Anyway, let's not pretend that this hobby isn't at some level about a form of conspicuous consumption, even if we're just making it conspicuous to ourselves and our private aesthetic/tactile enthusiasms. ;) These are inherently fanciful objects.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 18:12:12
EU proxy, please :thumb:
Looks like we've got a process worked out for that now and, assuming all goes well with the Norbaforces, I don't see why not.
Post by: p_blaze on Wed, 21 March 2018, 18:26:40
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 18:28:44
Have you considered sharper bezels on the corners instead of the rounded cone shape? I think sharper ones would be more in line with the whole 'brick' idea.
Well, I guess "brick" per se isn't exactly what I'm going for, otherwise I might have done for sharp edges rather than chamfers entirely. "Hefty and industrial" might be a better way of putting it. :rolleyes:
Post by: p_blaze on Wed, 21 March 2018, 18:33:06
That's fair; my opinion, with a few grains of salt, is in favor of sharper bezels, but the current design still looks great.Have you considered sharper bezels on the corners instead of the rounded cone shape? I think sharper ones would be more in line with the whole 'brick' idea.
Well, I guess "brick" per se isn't exactly what I'm going for, otherwise I might have done for sharp edges rather than chamfers entirely. "Hefty and industrial" might be a better way of putting it. :rolleyes:
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 21 March 2018, 18:34:32
That's fair; my opinion, with a few grains of salt, is in favor of sharper bezels, but the current design still looks great.Have you considered sharper bezels on the corners instead of the rounded cone shape? I think sharper ones would be more in line with the whole 'brick' idea.
Well, I guess "brick" per se isn't exactly what I'm going for, otherwise I might have done for sharp edges rather than chamfers entirely. "Hefty and industrial" might be a better way of putting it. :rolleyes:
I like those too, and in fact would like to do a 90-degree angle bezel on a case at some point. I just didn't feel that it worked well for this design due to the inherent slope.
Post by: pendemon on Wed, 21 March 2018, 19:21:01
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Wed, 21 March 2018, 19:27:40
That's fair; my opinion, with a few grains of salt, is in favor of sharper bezels, but the current design still looks great.Have you considered sharper bezels on the corners instead of the rounded cone shape? I think sharper ones would be more in line with the whole 'brick' idea.
Well, I guess "brick" per se isn't exactly what I'm going for, otherwise I might have done for sharp edges rather than chamfers entirely. "Hefty and industrial" might be a better way of putting it. :rolleyes:
I like those too, and in fact would like to do a 90-degree angle bezel on a case at some point. I just didn't feel that it worked well for this design due to the inherent slope.
While on the topic of case design is there any chance of having the capacitance equation on the front similar to the stock case?
Post by: HotRoderX on Wed, 21 March 2018, 19:32:45
Post by: ArdentHandsaw on Wed, 21 March 2018, 19:48:54
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Wed, 21 March 2018, 19:52:43
can I ask why you don't like the idea of USB C compatibility? I ask because I am trying to slowly shift over to USB-C one standard to rule them all. I love the prototype and would love for it to have and perhaps even include one of the Hasu controllers? Are a controller of your own design? either would be nice.None of the daughter boards available for the fc660c have a USB-C connector and I very highly doubt that hasu would change his connector of choice at this point.
Post by: nguyenhimself on Wed, 21 March 2018, 20:15:51
Any particular reason why you went with this design?
Also, funny thought: Anyone else use their FC660C as a travel board? This case is gonna change the whole dynamic of my keyboard line-up 🙂
Post by: p_blaze on Wed, 21 March 2018, 20:22:05
Post by: regionfree on Wed, 21 March 2018, 20:22:28
survey done :D
Post by: HotRoderX on Wed, 21 March 2018, 20:43:45
Is this compatible with the FC660M as well? I kind of want to use this case with a clueboard pcb and alps :)
I don't think it will be, If I am not mistaken the PCB shape is different and the USB placement. There been FC660M cases run just never a FC660C and I know the FC660M is not compatible with the FC660C.
Post by: nguyenhimself on Wed, 21 March 2018, 20:50:34
WHEN WILL THE SPENDING STOP!?
survey done :D
No, different sizes and all. Though if you want a high-quality aluminum case for the FC660M, there's already this choice (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-High-quality-CNC-Anodizing-Aluminum-Case-for-LEOPOLD-FC660M-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Including-Alu/32683736577.html) (Typing on one right now. It's great).
Post by: mpalen19 on Wed, 21 March 2018, 20:53:25
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Wed, 21 March 2018, 21:02:47
Also, funny thought: Anyone else use their FC660C as a travel board? This case is gonna change the whole dynamic of my keyboard line-up 🙂
I've been using it as my travel board since I got it but I can't help but feel the pull of a THICC metal case like this. Already built a low weight aluminum 60% with mx blacks in anticipation for the day that I'll have to abandon my fc660c to a life on my desk. :))
Post by: hervuli on Wed, 21 March 2018, 21:08:14
Post by: aggiejy on Wed, 21 March 2018, 21:19:10
Post by: omjak on Wed, 21 March 2018, 21:49:11
It does look tall-ish (but the keys also look slightly recessed into the case?) I'm thinking if the distance from desk surface to top of the keys is higher than the stock model, the risers might be beneficial to adjust the angle for those with shorter reach (small hands, shorter fingers.) On the survey, I opted out from the risers w/o considering this at the time; so if the cost of the risers would make a significant dent in the final cost of the case, I would not mind getting them as an additional $ option.
Colors wise; considering the very limited keycap options to match the case, I really love the Motorsport Yellow! Is it safe to assume that the custom powder coat options would be limited to the previously offered on Norbatouch/Norbaforce? or expanded to say... anyone's imagination?
Logo looks good!
Post by: Puddsy on Wed, 21 March 2018, 22:03:18
glad to finally see this coming closer to fruition
Post by: elcubismo on Thu, 22 March 2018, 00:10:15
Gotta admit, was kind of hoping for a more slim option but Norb you always make such excellent products that I know I'll love it. Totally in. Might have to factor in a tall wrist rest for my travel setup :P
Post by: objex on Thu, 22 March 2018, 01:37:20
Post by: HotRoderX on Thu, 22 March 2018, 02:02:16
I was previously 100% in, but I won't be with the logo in its current state. :( For me to buy it the branding would have to be, at the very most, nearly invisible - like the capacitance formula on the original black case, or possibly recessed into the aluminum with no added colors like rama's stuff.
I am also a bit mixed about the branding .. given its not enough to stop me from buying.. just it looks out of place.. perhaps having the logo milled into the bottom plate would be better? Also another suggestion I was curious about is the Brass plate set in stone or would it be possible to get a lighter aluminum plate as a option. I am just not sure if I desire my FC660C to weight close to 5 lbs. Also I think about price I know expensive but if this thing comes in more expensive then the last project I most likely be out due to cost.
Post by: FSund on Thu, 22 March 2018, 03:19:49
I know making more hardware versions will increase cost and add further complexities to the production, so I'm not going to suggest making two versions of the case (one with, and one without the logo on the back).
Post by: Sharku on Thu, 22 March 2018, 04:24:46
Post by: nguyenhimself on Thu, 22 March 2018, 04:39:29
whoever buys this keyboard looks, among other things, for a small size and portability, I think that with this design loses those qualities.
Eh, not everyone. I found the Realforce's 55g domes way too heavy, and since I also can't into the HHKB's layout, the FC660C is the best Topre board for me. Portability is just a nice plus.
Post by: derzemel on Thu, 22 March 2018, 05:28:13
But, I would like also to have the Capacitance formula printed somewhere (ideally in the same place as the FC660C case)
Also, in the prototype images above, I did not see the the cut out in the bottom plate for the DIP switches (original controller)/reset button(Hasu's controller). I hope that will not be the case for the later models.
One thing that bothers me though, is the sides. They seem way too thick/wide. They look as wide as a 1u keycap. But this might be just a personal preference as I dislike Mekanisk Fjell, Rama M65, KbdFans 5°, etc. for this reason.
Regarding hasu's controller, it looks like it has the same, or very close to the size of the normal FC660C controller. I have one and I remember putting them one on top the other and they looked identical in size.
Here is a link to a video where the 2 controllers are next to each other (https://youtu.be/TYmAb8zOPWU?t=7m4s)
You could ask Hasu for confirmation though.
Anyway, I understand that this is a first step and some things may change along the way
Post by: Sharku on Thu, 22 March 2018, 06:00:37
One thing that bothers me though, is the sides. They seem way too thick/wide. They look as wide as a 1u keycap. But this might be just a personal preference as I dislike Mekanisk Fjell, Rama M65, KbdFans 5°, etc. for this reason.
I agree with the thickness, thinner is more elegant, more minimalist and supposedly less heavy
Post by: Asbrodeus on Thu, 22 March 2018, 06:55:24
Post by: gizmoplex on Thu, 22 March 2018, 07:06:24
Post by: nguyenhimself on Thu, 22 March 2018, 08:57:20
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1473/3902/articles/IMG_4877.PNG?v=1512979265)
Pic below is more in line with what I was expecting for this case:
(https://i.redd.it/5th3j0bingzz.jpg)
Ah well, let's see how things go.
Post by: gilmoregrills on Thu, 22 March 2018, 10:33:42
Any idea on how far away from a GB we might be? It would be useful to know just so I can budget for this totally necessary expense
There was also mention of an EU proxy further up in the thread, relieved to know that's potentially a thing :D
(also if anyone can source a sticker for the capacitance formula I'd be super interested in getting one of those on here)
Post by: clasicks on Thu, 22 March 2018, 10:48:05
I guess it's jut bad luck that I don't like the Fjell case design and prefer things a bit 'smoother'. I wasn't exactly happy when KBDFans also went for a more "industrialized" look for the KBD661. IIRC that did not work out well for him either.Show Image(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1473/3902/articles/IMG_4877.PNG?v=1512979265)
Pic below is more in line with what I was expecting for this case:Show Image(https://i.redd.it/5th3j0bingzz.jpg)
Ah well, let's see how things go.
ur not alone this fjell bezel stuff that is now appearing on 50% of new boards does not interest me in the slightest.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 22 March 2018, 10:53:57
can I ask why you don't like the idea of USB C compatibility? I ask because I am trying to slowly shift over to USB-C one standard to rule them all. I love the prototype and would love for it to have and perhaps even include one of the Hasu controllers? Are a controller of your own design? either would be nice.None of the daughter boards available for the fc660c have a USB-C connector and I very highly doubt that hasu would change his connector of choice at this point.
^ this
I get the desire, but I just don't think that conceptual purity or OCD completionism justify the fuss and extra expense. Somebody will just come out with a new standard in a few years to replace USB-C and we'll be in the same situation. Embrace the technological chaos. :)
Post by: Vigrith on Thu, 22 March 2018, 11:09:21
Ridiculously jazzed for this case omg.
Any idea on how far away from a GB we might be? It would be useful to know just so I can budget for this totally necessary expense
There was also mention of an EU proxy further up in the thread, relieved to know that's potentially a thing :D
(also if anyone can source a sticker for the capacitance formula I'd be super interested in getting one of those on here)
EU proxy is indeed very nice to have and I'm also down for a potential formula sticker! I think that'd be a nice touch to have as an option for those that want it.
Far as I know Norbauer's not got a tentative release for it as of yet but as per what was hinted at in the reddit thread I'd imagine it's quite plausible it'll be ready to launch this year.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 22 March 2018, 12:45:38
(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/connector-hole-positioning.png)
But otherwise I intend to remain with the same general hefty, industrial feel of the design on this one. For every person who might be turned off by the unusual design, somebody else is excited about it, and my projects are never about maximizing sales but about trying to do something unorthodox and creative. Good news is I always try to do something different on each project, so if this design doesn't resonate with you, then perhaps the next thing I do will. :D
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 22 March 2018, 12:53:24
Ridiculously jazzed for this case omg.
Any idea on how far away from a GB we might be? It would be useful to know just so I can budget for this totally necessary expense
Awesome. Thanks for the words of encouragement. :)
In terms of timing, I'd guess at least a month or two for the GB to get rolling. I want to be able to get samples in the powder coat finishes at the very least so I can heave real photos and not renders, and that will take a bit of time still. In terms of projected ship date, I figure we'd be looking at an end-of-the-year(ish) time frame.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 22 March 2018, 13:02:43
I wasn't exactly happy when KBDFans also went for a more "industrialized" look for the KBD661.
I guess we just have different tastes. I had never seen that design before, but I think it's absolutely fantastic.
Post by: Delirious on Thu, 22 March 2018, 13:55:24
I would like to see may be an addition 1-2 degree tilt.
Post by: haydoselefantes on Thu, 22 March 2018, 14:37:47
Post by: Captainbuttmonkey on Thu, 22 March 2018, 16:15:12
Post by: xondat on Thu, 22 March 2018, 16:30:41
Awesome as usual, looks like I had better buy a 660C and start saving for this. Also it just occurred to me, have you ever considered making a case for the HHKB? I've heard and presume this is a much more complex task due to the plate/lack thereof?
The housings and plate (and top piece) is the same piece on the HHKB, whereas with this, RF, etc they're different pieces which is why it's complex :confused:
Post by: Captainbuttmonkey on Thu, 22 March 2018, 16:50:05
Awesome as usual, looks like I had better buy a 660C and start saving for this. Also it just occurred to me, have you ever considered making a case for the HHKB? I've heard and presume this is a much more complex task due to the plate/lack thereof?
The housings and plate (and top piece) is the same piece on the HHKB, whereas with this, RF, etc they're different pieces which is why it's complex :confused:
Ahhh gotcha, looks like you've done a really nice job with the plate you just posted in the discord btw =]. So essentially somebody would most likely need to either design and manufacture their own housings+plate similar to that of the RF etc or design a case that could somehow encompass the existing housing/plate/top piece within it?
Post by: HotRoderX on Thu, 22 March 2018, 16:50:51
can I ask why you don't like the idea of USB C compatibility? I ask because I am trying to slowly shift over to USB-C one standard to rule them all. I love the prototype and would love for it to have and perhaps even include one of the Hasu controllers? Are a controller of your own design? either would be nice.None of the daughter boards available for the fc660c have a USB-C connector and I very highly doubt that hasu would change his connector of choice at this point.
^ this
I get the desire, but I just don't think that conceptual purity or OCD completionism justify the fuss and extra expense. Somebody will just come out with a new standard in a few years to replace USB-C and we'll be in the same situation. Embrace the technological chaos. :)
fair enough do you know if it will be possible for you to double check fit for the HASU controller least?
Post by: Kerasan on Thu, 22 March 2018, 16:52:48
congratulations, you always make top products
Awesome as usual, looks like I had better buy a 660C and start saving for this. Also it just occurred to me, have you ever considered making a case for the HHKB? I've heard and presume this is a much more complex task due to the plate/lack thereof?
The housings and plate (and top piece) is the same piece on the HHKB, whereas with this, RF, etc they're different pieces which is why it's complex :confused:
many people asked him for the hhkb case, it would be great, I think Ryan can do it
KMK Labs.
Post by: HotRoderX on Thu, 22 March 2018, 16:53:14
I guess it's jut bad luck that I don't like the Fjell case design and prefer things a bit 'smoother'. I wasn't exactly happy when KBDFans also went for a more "industrialized" look for the KBD661. IIRC that did not work out well for him either.Show Image(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1473/3902/articles/IMG_4877.PNG?v=1512979265)
Pic below is more in line with what I was expecting for this case:Show Image(https://i.redd.it/5th3j0bingzz.jpg)
Ah well, let's see how things go.
I wasn't exactly happy when KBDFans also went for a more "industrialized" look for the KBD661.
I guess we just have different tastes. I had never seen that design before, but I think it's absolutely fantastic.
don't quote me on this but I swear I read on Reddit that the KBD661 design was based on SA Keycap. That KBDfan's was told he should do a case based on the angle and profile of a SA cap and whelp.. he did cause it does look like a SA cap. I think it turned out nice and was unique.. not the same cookie cutter look everything seems to get.
Post by: xondat on Thu, 22 March 2018, 18:00:34
Awesome as usual, looks like I had better buy a 660C and start saving for this. Also it just occurred to me, have you ever considered making a case for the HHKB? I've heard and presume this is a much more complex task due to the plate/lack thereof?
The housings and plate (and top piece) is the same piece on the HHKB, whereas with this, RF, etc they're different pieces which is why it's complex :confused:
Ahhh gotcha, looks like you've done a really nice job with the plate you just posted in the discord btw =]. So essentially somebody would most likely need to either design and manufacture their own housings+plate similar to that of the RF etc or design a case that could somehow encompass the existing housing/plate/top piece within it?
Two options to use the PCB is HHKB-like construction, where the housings, plate, and top piece is the same piece, or RF-like construction, where the housings, plate, and top is all separate.
I think most want the HHKB-like when they think of a replacement HHKB case. You could do either though.
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Thu, 22 March 2018, 18:20:20
It was actually supposed to look like a cherry cap not an SA one which ended up going over a lot of people's heads. Shame too because the board was super unique which is something that I personally really appreciate.I guess it's jut bad luck that I don't like the Fjell case design and prefer things a bit 'smoother'. I wasn't exactly happy when KBDFans also went for a more "industrialized" look for the KBD661. IIRC that did not work out well for him either.Show Image(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1473/3902/articles/IMG_4877.PNG?v=1512979265)
Pic below is more in line with what I was expecting for this case:Show Image(https://i.redd.it/5th3j0bingzz.jpg)
Ah well, let's see how things go.I wasn't exactly happy when KBDFans also went for a more "industrialized" look for the KBD661.
I guess we just have different tastes. I had never seen that design before, but I think it's absolutely fantastic.
don't quote me on this but I swear I read on Reddit that the KBD661 design was based on SA Keycap. That KBDfan's was told he should do a case based on the angle and profile of a SA cap and whelp.. he did cause it does look like a SA cap. I think it turned out nice and was unique.. not the same cookie cutter look everything seems to get.
Post by: Captainbuttmonkey on Thu, 22 March 2018, 18:30:22
Awesome as usual, looks like I had better buy a 660C and start saving for this. Also it just occurred to me, have you ever considered making a case for the HHKB? I've heard and presume this is a much more complex task due to the plate/lack thereof?
The housings and plate (and top piece) is the same piece on the HHKB, whereas with this, RF, etc they're different pieces which is why it's complex :confused:
Ahhh gotcha, looks like you've done a really nice job with the plate you just posted in the discord btw =]. So essentially somebody would most likely need to either design and manufacture their own housings+plate similar to that of the RF etc or design a case that could somehow encompass the existing housing/plate/top piece within it?
Two options to use the PCB is HHKB-like construction, where the housings, plate, and top piece is the same piece, or RF-like construction, where the housings, plate, and top is all separate.
I think most want the HHKB-like when they think of a replacement HHKB case. You could do either though.
Cool, personally I wouldn't be bothered how someone achieved it. Just an HHKB in a custom case would be pretty sweet full stop to me, I realise others can have strong opinions. Either way, seems like we are getting closer to it as people seem to be trying more and more ambitious projects as time goes on!
Post by: ramnes on Thu, 22 March 2018, 19:15:58
It's really tall and bulky, Ryan.
But I'm in anyway; I've been waiting for a metal FC660C case way too long.
Post by: wishful_cynic on Thu, 22 March 2018, 19:59:02
Post by: Hawkfriend on Thu, 22 March 2018, 20:21:44
Post by: ihalatch on Thu, 22 March 2018, 21:56:04
Post by: mustcode on Fri, 23 March 2018, 02:29:42
Post by: DribbelDog on Fri, 23 March 2018, 02:32:01
Not a fan of visible logos.
Your logo is the design. It is instantly recognizable. Let the design be your signature.
A regular atelier wouldn't put their logo on the back of a nice suit. For those that care about labels, they place it tastefully on the inside of the blazer, like the approach you took with the Norbaforce.
The purpose of logos is for people to show off a brand - the intersection of conspicuous consumption and marketing. This item goes in your house - who are you showing off the brand to? Do you really need to be reminded that Norbauer made this case? Worse is that the logo design has multiple colors that detract from the asthetic. It reminds me of the colors and shape of the old Osprey logo on backpacks. Osprey finally decided to simplify their logo to a white logo because the original oval colored logo really clashed with several of the color options they offered and just looked dated.
If I was forced to live with a logo or branding on my keyboard I think the best solution was the Evil80 group buy, where users could create their own logo and have it machined and anodized in the color of their choice, both on the front and the bottom. In my case, I just left the logo blank.
I understand the sentiment, and I do agree that Norbauer doesn't need branding for people to know the case is of his design - however, I think the way it is incorporated here is quite tasteful and the logo itself is pretty cool. I can see why people wouldn't like it but I also think it's fairly inoffensively placed where it is.
Keyboards aren't suits and to me this adds to the design rather than taking away from it, not necessarily as a branding statement or "show off" but just as an addon.
Yes, this is pretty much the rationale. I'm already on the record as kind of hating conspicuous branding and wanting to avoid it on my stuff, but I've been surprised by how many people have expressly asked me to add some kind of "maker's mark," and this is my small gesture in that direction. I personally love the branding on a certain narrow set of things (Schoolhouse Electric lamps and clocks, Leica cameras, Montblanc pens and leather goods) and hate it on others (clothing, and pretty much everything else). I think it really just depends on the execution, my feelings about and sense of personal connection to the company/maker, and how visually obtrusive it is.
I mean, if for some odd reason people want to show that their case is something that came from me, well, I'm flattered and don't mind obliging, but I do want to keep it unobtrusive, so my requirements are: a) it be visually subtle and 2) actually add to the aesthetic properties of the object. I happen to love enamel-and-metal badges, though, and I think I could do something cool with it. But don't worry: if I can't find a way to pull it off nicely, I'll just leave it blank. As I see it now, the enamel color will vary based on which finish you select and should be complementary to that finish.
Re Wetherbee's point about home use, a lot of people actually use their keyboards in workplaces and view it as one of the few ways of adding something unique to their space, so a bit of signaling is actually a (perhaps guilty) part of the pleasure for some people. Anyway, let's not pretend that this hobby isn't at some level about a form of conspicuous consumption, even if we're just making it conspicuous to ourselves and our private aesthetic/tactile enthusiasms. ;) These are inherently fanciful objects.
Even though I realize we had the same discussion with the NorbaForce, and you brought up a rather compelling montblanc argument, I still feel I need to express my negative feelings towards the branding as well. In fact, this may very well be the only reason that could prevent me from wanting this case.
While I absolutely respect the tremendous work you put into these cases, and all I do is leave a comment on a rare occasion and press the 'buy' button, I still very much like the idea that the case is 'mine'. A logo reminds me that I just bought something. It makes it feel like a commercial product. I like how you bring up the workspace, because potential workspace usage is all the more reason for me to dislike the branding. Again, can't stress enough how much I respect the work, but I don't really feel the desire to explain to my peers who you are, while I do like to explain that something was a single production run group buy project. That makes it unique to me personally.
Regarding color: red is an absolute no-no to me, even though it would probably look amazing on the yellow color option. Something evenly silver, in which the actual pattern jumps out only because it is slightly raised, would be something I'd like more. But I guess I'm just trying to make it less visible ;).
Post by: krey on Fri, 23 March 2018, 02:35:08
i like that idea.
Post by: tuxkey on Fri, 23 March 2018, 05:01:09
Im a dutch veteran and had sum physical issues with my legs and wrists related to my injuries when i was in service.
So had a lot of physical therapy the best money can buy all payed by dutch uncle sam.
And one thing all the physical therapists agreed on was don’t use the feet of your keyboard.
i’m allowed to use my wrist rest but only to rest on between typing and keep the angle of my keyboard at a min the angle of both my FC660M / FC660C are ok but no more that was the message i got when i had to show them how i typed...
really strange btw two physical therapists standing on both sides analysing how i stand , walk type posture and such hahaha..
If you plan to enjoy this hobby for years to come trust me no angle and take brakes change up the movement of your body stretch but that’s something everyone knows i think..
well it’s all preference i guess your young now so this all sounds far far away no need to concern your self with it..write ;-)
btw that’s the mean reason why i was hesitant to join the KBD661 GB the angle seemed to high.. And i don’t like the look of it reminds me of the FJELL..
in regards to the branding i don’t like it there and would much rather have it on the bottom plate (outside).
i also understand that you have the need as a designer to sign your work that’s why i would say bottom plate on the outside..keep the top / sides clean.
I totally agree with the EU proxy that’s a must.
Adding 21% + 11% makes this way way too much.
on the Hasu controller part it has the exact size as the original controller as far as i know i’m using it on my current board and i can’t live without it so a perfect fit also a must.
Also if you plan to give your keyboards the upgrade in feel/looks you don’t forget about the brains of the thing, that seems strange to me..
That also speaks to the USB-C question like the innovation of the connecter and all it brings but must have the use of Hasu controller that’s a must.
So that option is a no go..
i’m also for the sharper bezels and edges like the Norbatouch a nice compact massive looking monolith unflinching!!
But slim as well as i use a trackpad on the left side and mouse on the right my desk is filled with books so keeping it slim true the form of the original case would be the way to go.. i also dislike the FJELL for that reason. i 100% agree with “nguyenhimself” minimal and smooth is the way to goo.
As for the Finnish i have mine stoch creamy white caps with dark grey and red spacebar en red esc. so i would say the only color that would go well and make the colours pop dark.
And a Hard anodized finish sounds good to me , if i’m not wrong that’s the easiest to do and keep kost low.. i’m all for that !!
The “capacitance formula” strangely enough that’s something i would love to see engraved in the front don’t know why just do hahaha..hmmm...
I want to finish with this, i don’t know if i’m going to join this GB. As i kind of have to watch expenses write now.
Going back to studying for my certs and having to pay €1300 for two exams out of pocket sucks but a must if i want to get back in to the work game.
So will see what times brings. I have bin looking at your cases for a long time sir norbauer ;-) hats of the most beautiful looking and well engineered
cases i have ever seen. Also liked your interview on TopClack where i kept thinking why doesn’t he make a case for the FC660C ??
Well here it is.. Really hope the final products looks as good as the Norbatouch and ik hope i can afford one when the time comes..
Post by: rasmusx on Fri, 23 March 2018, 05:35:32
- Case looks nice and beefy.
- Hasu controller should work with it, otherwise for me personally it would be deal breaker.
- Not fan of logo on outside of the case.
- Please look into option adding capacitance formula as the original case has.
Very nice to see that it is finally happening!
Post by: kmba on Fri, 23 March 2018, 06:00:13
Post by: deterouni on Fri, 23 March 2018, 08:12:10
Post by: Rumblehotep on Fri, 23 March 2018, 13:17:45
This just looks massive
What's slang for this? Norbapold? MjölNorb?
Post by: dblack on Fri, 23 March 2018, 13:45:07
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 23 March 2018, 14:07:56
Wow that thing is a brick lol, looks great though it might be too tall for me.
I have a design idea I'm working on with the CNC workshop that might make it possible to retain the overall heft and look of the piece but reduce the height a bit more for ergonomics, by about, say, 4-5mm. I'm currently printing up a quick SLA prototype to see if it's feasible.
In short: you can expect the design to remain overall the same in look and feel but, for now, assume the height will be reduced as much as the physics of the situation will allow. :)
Post by: dblack on Fri, 23 March 2018, 14:09:46
Sounds like something I would love, good luck!Wow that thing is a brick lol, looks great though it might be too tall for me.
I have a design idea I'm working on with the CNC workshop that might make it possible to retain the overall heft and look of the piece but reduce the height a bit more for ergonomics, by about, say, 4-5mm. I'm currently printing up a quick SLA prototype to see if it's feasible.
In short: you can expect the design to remain overall the same in look and feel but, for now, assume the height will be reduced as much as the physics of the situation will allow. :)
Post by: midnight2903 on Fri, 23 March 2018, 15:04:34
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 23 March 2018, 17:06:23
Post by: wishful_cynic on Fri, 23 March 2018, 17:59:45
I ordered a Hasu controller, incidentally, and should be able to confirm the fit as soon as it arrives, but since it was designed to fit the hole profile of the original OEM case, we should be good already.
My stock controller is dead and I have a Hasu controller scheduled for delivery tomorrow. Feel free to ship me your proto and I’ll test out the fit for you, no charge! :cool:
Post by: norbauer on Sat, 24 March 2018, 11:39:21
any chance for the retro fridge color option?
I'm trying to reduce the logistical burden (and long shipping wait times) of having people order so many wildly varying powder coating colors, so in future I think I'm going to pick one or two "standard" options that I can turn around in one big batch quickly and then anything else will be a custom color for people who really particularly need something quite specific. So, yes, it should be possible to get RR on this run, but it sadly will probably be more expensive.
I personally really like the Photograher's Gray finish I've selected to be a standard color. It's almost identical to the finish used on all Gitzo tripods and similar to the hammertone used on some Leica cameras—hence the name.
Post by: jay6889 on Sat, 24 March 2018, 12:14:49
I'll definitely join this.
Post by: sodiumjoe on Sat, 24 March 2018, 16:11:12
Is this color meant to pair well with the stock keycaps?any chance for the retro fridge color option?
I'm trying to reduce the logistical burden (and long shipping wait times) of having people order so many wildly varying powder coating colors, so in future I think I'm going to pick one or two "standard" options that I can turn around in one big batch quickly and then anything else will be a custom color for people who really particularly need something quite specific. So, yes, it should be possible to get RR on this run, but it sadly will probably be more expensive.
I personally really like the Photograher's Gray finish I've selected to be a standard color. It's almost identical to the finish used on all Gitzo tripods and similar to the hammertone used on some Leica cameras—hence the name.
Post by: norbauer on Sat, 24 March 2018, 16:56:07
Is this color meant to pair well with the stock keycaps?any chance for the retro fridge color option?
I'm trying to reduce the logistical burden (and long shipping wait times) of having people order so many wildly varying powder coating colors, so in future I think I'm going to pick one or two "standard" options that I can turn around in one big batch quickly and then anything else will be a custom color for people who really particularly need something quite specific. So, yes, it should be possible to get RR on this run, but it sadly will probably be more expensive.
I personally really like the Photograher's Gray finish I've selected to be a standard color. It's almost identical to the finish used on all Gitzo tripods and similar to the hammertone used on some Leica cameras—hence the name.
That is indeed the idea. :)
Post by: the_fascist on Sat, 24 March 2018, 23:55:28
One thing I can suggest is that you consider adding a black/grey option as close to the stock case as possible. I saw the photographer's grey, but it was difficult to get a read on the color because of the texture. Is it going to be that textured?
Post by: Kerasan on Mon, 26 March 2018, 02:31:31
Motorsport Yellow :D
Post by: Vulcan on Mon, 26 March 2018, 06:06:47
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 26 March 2018, 09:48:22
This case is super unique, i have made a high profile case before, but i dont really like the typing experience, so i end up on making custom wrist rest.. are you planing to make a wrist rest for this case as well?
My current plan is to lower the profile of the housing a bit while still retaining the overall design feel.
However, I will say that I count myself among those who hovers their hands in the air while typing (I rest my elbows on my chair). It's an ergonomic strategy I trained into myself when I used to get wrist issues from excessive hours spent coding. For those of us who type without resting our wrists on the table, the height of the keyboard (especially small mm differences) shouldn't matter much. You can compensate with a tiny adjustment to your chair height—or, if you have an adjustable desk like I do, by moving the desk down a tiny bit and your monitor upward a tiny bit.
That all being said, I'm working on reducing the height closer to that of the OEM case. :D
Post by: Dead Encryption on Mon, 26 March 2018, 11:05:54
This case is super unique, i have made a high profile case before, but i dont really like the typing experience, so i end up on making custom wrist rest.. are you planing to make a wrist rest for this case as well?
My current plan is to lower the profile of the housing a bit while still retaining the overall design feel.
However, I will say that I count myself among those who hovers their hands in the air while typing (I rest my elbows on my chair). It's an ergonomic strategy I trained into myself when I used to get wrist issues from excessive hours spent coding. For those of us who type without resting our wrists on the table, the height of the keyboard (especially small mm differences) shouldn't matter much. You can compensate with a tiny adjustment to your chair height—or, if you have an adjustable desk like I do, by moving the desk down a tiny bit and your monitor upward a tiny bit.
That all being said, I'm working on reducing the height closer to that of the OEM case. :D
Aww, don't make it too much lower, lol. I liked the increase height, that was what would keep me from needing feet. But overall whatever you decide I'm sure I will still get it.
Post by: Kerasan on Mon, 26 March 2018, 11:34:26
This case is super unique, i have made a high profile case before, but i dont really like the typing experience, so i end up on making custom wrist rest.. are you planing to make a wrist rest for this case as well?
My current plan is to lower the profile of the housing a bit while still retaining the overall design feel.
However, I will say that I count myself among those who hovers their hands in the air while typing (I rest my elbows on my chair). It's an ergonomic strategy I trained into myself when I used to get wrist issues from excessive hours spent coding. For those of us who type without resting our wrists on the table, the height of the keyboard (especially small mm differences) shouldn't matter much. You can compensate with a tiny adjustment to your chair height—or, if you have an adjustable desk like I do, by moving the desk down a tiny bit and your monitor upward a tiny bit.
That all being said, I'm working on reducing the height closer to that of the OEM case. :D
I totally agree with everything you wrote, I really like the current profile.
KMK Labs.
Post by: Sharku on Tue, 27 March 2018, 04:27:31
Or have you measured it yourself?
Post by: xondat on Tue, 27 March 2018, 09:27:50
is there a template with the exact measurements of leopold fc660c? pcb, case, etc ...
Or have you measured it yourself?
Measured himself, otherwise there would be a lot more cases if it’s open source :))
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 28 March 2018, 14:19:20
Post by: wishful_cynic on Wed, 28 March 2018, 14:46:04
Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
As suspected, but great to know! I’m really excited for this case. ;D
Post by: gilmoregrills on Wed, 28 March 2018, 14:51:49
Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
That rules!
Time to factor one of those into this build now >_<
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 29 March 2018, 13:49:07
Post by: Sharku on Fri, 30 March 2018, 04:49:09
this would be awesome!!
Post by: derzemel on Sat, 31 March 2018, 23:28:42
Please talk to @hasu and make posible an aluminium case with hasu controller usb C leopold fc660c (and maybe with bluetooth).Bluetooth does not work through aluminium.
this would be awesome!!
Also, Bluetooth needs a battery, which requires a redesign of the case.
When Hasu designed his controller for the FC660C he actually avoided using USB C because it kept cost low. USB mini is a lot cheaper and the connector is strong.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Post by: Sharku on Sun, 01 April 2018, 05:30:15
Please talk to @hasu and make posible an aluminium case with hasu controller usb C leopold fc660c (and maybe with bluetooth).Bluetooth does not work through aluminium.
this would be awesome!!
Also, Bluetooth needs a battery, which requires a redesign of the case.
When Hasu designed his controller for the FC660C he actually avoided using USB C because it kept cost low. USB mini is a lot cheaper and the connector is strong.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Norbauer is making a new housing, that means he can do everything you say (space for the battery, hole for the bluetooth to pass, etc.)
Hasu said that usb C was too big for the hole that comes from factory. not that it was too expensive. (" No plan for USB-C C is a bit too large to plug in USB-mini hole. ")
and the bluetooth would need to invest too much time ("I have no clear plan on Bluetooth controller, I'm not working on it currently at least.
I found some dificulties on Bluetooth controller. One of them is that FC660C controller PCB is much smaller than HHKB and this requires new design and components. It will take longer than what I expected and I'm not sure when I can have enough time to do so").
Post by: JJ on Mon, 02 April 2018, 09:25:20
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Post by: kmba on Mon, 02 April 2018, 10:08:07
Hi I have never owned a norbacases before, I just wanted to ask if these cases would come with a different housing plate? (Not weight) and if it does come with a different housing plate, would it be made easier to align the domes?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
They use the stock plate. Through guts of the 660c will be drop in, you won't have to touch the domes.
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Mon, 02 April 2018, 10:26:01
Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
Been hoping for this! This is a dream come true for me :) Love my Norbatouch, but the non-programmability is pretty annoying...
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 02 April 2018, 10:27:30
Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
Been hoping for this! This is a dream come true for me :) Love my Norbatouch, but the non-programmability is pretty annoying...
Just use a Hasu controller (https://1upkeyboards.com/fc660c-controller.html)? I have confirmed it fits.
Hi I have never owned a norbacases before, I just wanted to ask if these cases would come with a different housing plate? (Not weight) and if it does come with a different housing plate, would it be made easier to align the domes?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
They use the stock plate. Through guts of the 660c will be drop in, you won't have to touch the domes.
Affirmative.
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Mon, 02 April 2018, 10:56:48
Oh, I meant on my norbatouch. I will for sure get a hasu for the 660c!Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
Been hoping for this! This is a dream come true for me :) Love my Norbatouch, but the non-programmability is pretty annoying...
Just use a Hasu controller (https://1upkeyboards.com/fc660c-controller.html)? I have confirmed it fits.Hi I have never owned a norbacases before, I just wanted to ask if these cases would come with a different housing plate? (Not weight) and if it does come with a different housing plate, would it be made easier to align the domes?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
They use the stock plate. Through guts of the 660c will be drop in, you won't have to touch the domes.
Affirmative.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 02 April 2018, 10:58:42
Oh, I meant on my norbatouch. I will for sure get a hasu for the 660c!Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
Been hoping for this! This is a dream come true for me :) Love my Norbatouch, but the non-programmability is pretty annoying...
Just use a Hasu controller (https://1upkeyboards.com/fc660c-controller.html)? I have confirmed it fits.Hi I have never owned a norbacases before, I just wanted to ask if these cases would come with a different housing plate? (Not weight) and if it does come with a different housing plate, would it be made easier to align the domes?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
They use the stock plate. Through guts of the 660c will be drop in, you won't have to touch the domes.
Affirmative.
Ah, ok. Sorry. There is also the USB-to-USB (https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/hasu-usb-usb-converter-t13976.html) converter for the others. Haven't used it myself, but it has been mentioned as a solution.
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Mon, 02 April 2018, 11:42:23
Oh, I meant on my norbatouch. I will for sure get a hasu for the 660c!Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
Been hoping for this! This is a dream come true for me :) Love my Norbatouch, but the non-programmability is pretty annoying...
Just use a Hasu controller (https://1upkeyboards.com/fc660c-controller.html)? I have confirmed it fits.Hi I have never owned a norbacases before, I just wanted to ask if these cases would come with a different housing plate? (Not weight) and if it does come with a different housing plate, would it be made easier to align the domes?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
They use the stock plate. Through guts of the 660c will be drop in, you won't have to touch the domes.
Affirmative.
Ah, ok. Sorry. There is also the USB-to-USB (https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/hasu-usb-usb-converter-t13976.html) converter for the others. Haven't used it myself, but it has been mentioned as a solution.
Huh... that is promising- didn't know about that. Thank you! And still very much looking forward to the Heavy-6!
Post by: MajorKoos on Mon, 02 April 2018, 12:18:29
Oh, I meant on my norbatouch. I will for sure get a hasu for the 660c!Upon testing, I'm happy to report that the case is entirely compatible with the Hasu controller.
Been hoping for this! This is a dream come true for me :) Love my Norbatouch, but the non-programmability is pretty annoying...
Just use a Hasu controller (https://1upkeyboards.com/fc660c-controller.html)? I have confirmed it fits.Hi I have never owned a norbacases before, I just wanted to ask if these cases would come with a different housing plate? (Not weight) and if it does come with a different housing plate, would it be made easier to align the domes?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
They use the stock plate. Through guts of the 660c will be drop in, you won't have to touch the domes.
Affirmative.
Ah, ok. Sorry. There is also the USB-to-USB (https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/hasu-usb-usb-converter-t13976.html) converter for the others. Haven't used it myself, but it has been mentioned as a solution.
The USB-to-USB doesn't let one remap the function key on the Novatouch because it's implemented in the firmware.
Post by: Troif on Wed, 04 April 2018, 10:48:36
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:07:17
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Post by: JJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 11:44:50
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Post by: umeboshi on Wed, 04 April 2018, 12:18:23
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Stonewash is a great idea. This is an example of one that I use everyday (I guess titanium is out of the question
)https://www.handgrey.com/products/handgrey-h3
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 04 April 2018, 12:40:46
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Stonewash is a great idea. This is an example of one that I use everyday (I guess titanium is out of the question
https://www.handgrey.com/products/handgrey-h3
Alas. If your keychain there cost $85, you can imagine what a whole keyboard housing would cost. :rolleyes: This is especially true since the cost of machined parts tends to scale non-linearly with increases in the work envelope size.
Post by: eksuen on Wed, 04 April 2018, 13:59:17
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Stonewash is a great idea. This is an example of one that I use everyday (I guess titanium is out of the question
https://www.handgrey.com/products/handgrey-h3
Alas. If your keychain there cost $85, you can imagine what a whole keyboard housing would cost. :rolleyes: This is especially true since the cost of machined parts tends to scale non-linearly with increases in the work envelope size.
The keychain is titanium though, so that probably accounts for a lot of the cost.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:00:34
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Stonewash is a great idea. This is an example of one that I use everyday (I guess titanium is out of the question
https://www.handgrey.com/products/handgrey-h3
Alas. If your keychain there cost $85, you can imagine what a whole keyboard housing would cost. :rolleyes: This is especially true since the cost of machined parts tends to scale non-linearly with increases in the work envelope size.
The keychain is titanium though, so that probably accounts for a lot of the cost.
Yes, sorry; my reply was in reference to the prospect of titanium. :)
Post by: eksuen on Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:05:33
Yes, sorry; my reply was in reference to the prospect of titanium. :)
Ah, right. Visually, I don't think I could tell the difference between stonewashed titanium vs. stonewashed steel, and from what I understand, a lot of products made in titanium do so for weight savings. Given that people like heavy keyboards - and often opt for additional weights - wouldn't steel make more sense anyway (not that having a titanium keyboard case wouldn't be awesome)?
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:07:25
Yes, sorry; my reply was in reference to the prospect of titanium. :)
Ah, right. Visually, I don't think I could tell the difference between stonewashed titanium vs. stonewashed steel, and from what I understand, a lot of products made in titanium do so for weight savings. Given that people like heavy keyboards - and often opt for additional weights - wouldn't steel make more sense anyway (not that having a titanium keyboard case wouldn't be awesome)?
Yeah, totally. Steel makes more sense (as long as it’s stainless.) The cost issue with both is mainly the much longer machining times, but titanium is worse by far than steel, I think.
Post by: umeboshi on Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:37:58
Yes, sorry; my reply was in reference to the prospect of titanium. :)
Ah, right. Visually, I don't think I could tell the difference between stonewashed titanium vs. stonewashed steel, and from what I understand, a lot of products made in titanium do so for weight savings. Given that people like heavy keyboards - and often opt for additional weights - wouldn't steel make more sense anyway (not that having a titanium keyboard case wouldn't be awesome)?
Yeah, totally. Steel makes more sense (as long as it’s stainless.) The cost issue with both is mainly the much longer machining times, but titanium is worse by far than steel, I think.
Yes, it’s nice to dream though
. Mainly just wanted to show the stonewash finish. Would stonewash SS look similar?
Post by: Kerasan on Wed, 04 April 2018, 14:50:35
Yes, sorry; my reply was in reference to the prospect of titanium. :)
Ah, right. Visually, I don't think I could tell the difference between stonewashed titanium vs. stonewashed steel, and from what I understand, a lot of products made in titanium do so for weight savings. Given that people like heavy keyboards - and often opt for additional weights - wouldn't steel make more sense anyway (not that having a titanium keyboard case wouldn't be awesome)?
Yeah, totally. Steel makes more sense (as long as it’s stainless.) The cost issue with both is mainly the much longer machining times, but titanium is worse by far than steel, I think.
for titanium it also depends on the processing (for example grade 1 or 2, grade 4 or 5).
being a chemical element and not an alloy (for example steel) its atomic composition is univocal.
Titanium has the same grades as steel Vickers (between 350 and 500, depending on the processing, but you need hundreds or thousands of degrees Vickers of difference to have a greater appreciated hardness)
KMK Labs.
Post by: tusing on Wed, 04 April 2018, 16:31:54
Post by: p_blaze on Wed, 04 April 2018, 21:02:07
regular pvd looks kind of shiny and gaudy IMO, maybe if it is possible to beadblast it first or something it might improve the look
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Thu, 05 April 2018, 00:23:44
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 05 April 2018, 11:55:17
Would love a PVD brass instead of a brushed brass plate. Will we have the option to choose between them?
dunno if it would be too costly, but having the brass finished with nickel-plated black pvd always looks sublime
regular pvd looks kind of shiny and gaudy IMO, maybe if it is possible to beadblast it first or something it might improve the look
I've spoken to several PVD vendors in the past few weeks, and they all recommend against brass. It requires much more prep work to get a good finish and very little in the way of a superior outcome compared to steel. Indeed, to p_blaze's comment, you have to plate brass before you PVD coat it, which (in addition to throwing off tolerances more) leads to a more smooth and shiny finish, but steel can be PVD-coated directly, so you can give it a nice matte finish that still has the durability of PVD.
Post by: p_blaze on Thu, 05 April 2018, 15:56:51
Would love a PVD brass instead of a brushed brass plate. Will we have the option to choose between them?dunno if it would be too costly, but having the brass finished with nickel-plated black pvd always looks sublime
regular pvd looks kind of shiny and gaudy IMO, maybe if it is possible to beadblast it first or something it might improve the look
I've spoken to several PVD vendors in the past few weeks, and they all recommend against brass. It requires much more prep work to get a good finish and very little in the way of a superior outcome compared to steel. Indeed, to p_blaze's comment, you have to plate brass before you PVD coat it, which (in addition to throwing off tolerances more) leads to a more smooth and shiny finish, but steel can be PVD-coated directly, so you can give it a nice matte finish that still has the durability of PVD.
yeah, if you can get steel that would be really cool, especially with an actual finish
Post by: sozo on Fri, 06 April 2018, 18:39:26
Post by: tusing on Sun, 08 April 2018, 14:54:54
Post by: Rodde on Mon, 09 April 2018, 09:23:28
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Just wanted to chime in here - I would definitely be interested in a steel case option, especially if it means interesting finishes/textures. The price might be a bit high, but I'd say the clientele your work attracts would be a near-ideal audience for such things (premium price for premium products). There aren't really any other good premium case options for the FC660C, so I'm more than happy putting the money down to see it done right. :)
Post by: Troif on Mon, 09 April 2018, 14:55:14
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Just wanted to chime in here - I would definitely be interested in a steel case option, especially if it means interesting finishes/textures. The price might be a bit high, but I'd say the clientele your work attracts would be a near-ideal audience for such things (premium price for premium products). There aren't really any other good premium case options for the FC660C, so I'm more than happy putting the money down to see it done right. :)
Please! Imagine a FC660C Norbauer case in this finish:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/1b3540f10d17c41a4810d11ec35093f0.jpg)
Go go go!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 09 April 2018, 16:41:54
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Just wanted to chime in here - I would definitely be interested in a steel case option, especially if it means interesting finishes/textures. The price might be a bit high, but I'd say the clientele your work attracts would be a near-ideal audience for such things (premium price for premium products). There aren't really any other good premium case options for the FC660C, so I'm more than happy putting the money down to see it done right. :)
Please! Imagine a FC660C Norbauer case in this finish:Show Image(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/1b3540f10d17c41a4810d11ec35093f0.jpg)
Go go go!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
oh man. that's so hot.
is that just stonewashed raw stainless?
Post by: regionfree on Mon, 09 April 2018, 20:30:27
also wondering if it would be possible to have a custom plate for the fc660c/realforce with 3d printed slider housings. so we get the option of having a brass plate.
i tried removing one housing from my realforce and fc and i think the risk of damaging them during the process is high.
Post by: FSund on Tue, 10 April 2018, 02:25:26
I don't even have a FC660C, nor the funds to get in on this GB!
Post by: Troif on Tue, 10 April 2018, 06:31:03
@norb/ryan would you be able to post a sample typing sound test of the prototype you have?
also wondering if it would be possible to have a custom plate for the fc660c/realforce with 3d printed slider housings. so we get the option of having a brass plate.
i tried removing one housing from my realforce and fc and i think the risk of damaging them during the process is high.
I think adding a brass plate and so would complicate Norbauer's life and ours also... considering that the FC660C is already a nice product itself...
Post by: Troif on Tue, 10 April 2018, 06:32:14
wow! I am IN again Norbauer. I would KILL someone for the chance to have it in STONEWASHED finish... PLEASE!!! (like in EDC components)
Ooh. Now that is a cool idea. Can you post some of your favorite examples? Were you talking about acid-etched and stonewashed, or just stonewashed?
I've actually been longingly investigating offering an option for having the WHOLE case in stainless steel, which lends itself to stone-washing or PVD, but the price gets up to around $500 and I'm not sure we could find enough people interested to hit an MOQ for steel at that price.
Just wanted to chime in here - I would definitely be interested in a steel case option, especially if it means interesting finishes/textures. The price might be a bit high, but I'd say the clientele your work attracts would be a near-ideal audience for such things (premium price for premium products). There aren't really any other good premium case options for the FC660C, so I'm more than happy putting the money down to see it done right. :)
Please! Imagine a FC660C Norbauer case in this finish:Show Image(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/1b3540f10d17c41a4810d11ec35093f0.jpg)
Go go go!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
oh man. that's so hot.
is that just stonewashed raw stainless?
Norbauer, the good thing here is that this finish I showed you is ALUMINUM STONEWASHED AND TUMBLED (not StainlessSteel which has more cost), so cost won't be so heavy... what do you think? can we make it real!??? :D count on me for this finish.
Post by: Kerasan on Tue, 10 April 2018, 07:01:10
@norb/ryan would you be able to post a sample typing sound test of the prototype you have?
also wondering if it would be possible to have a custom plate for the fc660c/realforce with 3d printed slider housings. so we get the option of having a brass plate.
i tried removing one housing from my realforce and fc and i think the risk of damaging them during the process is high.
I think adding a brass plate and so would complicate Norbauer's life and ours also... considering that the FC660C is already a nice product itself...
You're right, good point.
KMK Labs.
Post by: Comment on Tue, 10 April 2018, 09:02:00
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 10 April 2018, 10:20:50
Norbauer, the good thing here is that this finish I showed you is ALUMINUM STONEWASHED AND TUMBLED (not StainlessSteel which has more cost), so cost won't be so heavy... what do you think? can we make it real!??? :D count on me for this finish.
Wow. That's interesting. My concern would be that raw aluminum is a very soft material without anodizing and thus highly susceptible to scratching and abrasion. Maybe with the stonewashed finish it would hide the normal sort of scratches that would accumulate on a non-anodized finish, but I would worry that even the stonewashed finish would rub away over time in spots that get touched. I have learned through these projects that some people have a tendency to rub their keyboard repeatedly in certain spots while typing, so good housings need to be somewhat robust to that kind of use.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 10 April 2018, 10:22:12
I was so inspired by your graphics for this project that I just had to make a banner. Hope you don't mind! Just tell me, and I'll remove it.
That's awesome. Thanks! :D
@norb/ryan would you be able to post a sample typing sound test of the prototype you have?
I'm waiting until I get a new sample with the latest design based on revisions from feedback in this thread, but yes I will certainly eventually do that. :)
Post by: Troif on Tue, 10 April 2018, 15:37:26
Norbauer, the good thing here is that this finish I showed you is ALUMINUM STONEWASHED AND TUMBLED (not StainlessSteel which has more cost), so cost won't be so heavy... what do you think? can we make it real!??? :D count on me for this finish.
Wow. That's interesting. My concern would be that raw aluminum is a very soft material without anodizing and thus highly susceptible to scratching and abrasion. Maybe with the stonewashed finish it would hide the normal sort of scratches that would accumulate on a non-anodized finish, but I would worry that even the stonewashed finish would rub away over time in spots that get touched. I have learned through these projects that some people have a tendency to rub their keyboard repeatedly in certain spots while typing, so good housings need to be somewhat robust to that kind of use.
I can promise you that this finish is SUPER STRONG. I have many samples with me as I love stonewashed finish, mainly Titanium and SS, but this Aluminum in tumbler is great. I have THREE buckets of those (different styles) and I can say those are sturdy as hell. This finish HAS NEVER BEEN DONE TO MY KNOWLEDGE in a keyboard... so PLEASE!!!
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Wed, 11 April 2018, 10:31:18
This man loves stonewashed finishes :))Norbauer, the good thing here is that this finish I showed you is ALUMINUM STONEWASHED AND TUMBLED (not StainlessSteel which has more cost), so cost won't be so heavy... what do you think? can we make it real!??? :D count on me for this finish.
Wow. That's interesting. My concern would be that raw aluminum is a very soft material without anodizing and thus highly susceptible to scratching and abrasion. Maybe with the stonewashed finish it would hide the normal sort of scratches that would accumulate on a non-anodized finish, but I would worry that even the stonewashed finish would rub away over time in spots that get touched. I have learned through these projects that some people have a tendency to rub their keyboard repeatedly in certain spots while typing, so good housings need to be somewhat robust to that kind of use.
I can promise you that this finish is SUPER STRONG. I have many samples with me as I love stonewashed finish, mainly Titanium and SS, but this Aluminum in tumbler is great. I have THREE buckets of those (different styles) and I can say those are sturdy as hell. This finish HAS NEVER BEEN DONE TO MY KNOWLEDGE in a keyboard... so PLEASE!!!
Post by: elcubismo on Wed, 11 April 2018, 19:52:17
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 11 April 2018, 20:14:39
Honestly I think the case is fancy enough and going to take a long time to get to me anyway, so I'm cool with Norbauer's original plan and getting at asap lol. Maybe I'll consider a custom powdercoat but even the choices offered seem fine
More fancy, more time to make. For better or worse, that’s my specialty. Maybe embrace it as part of the “Norbauer experience?” :)
Post by: dc_in_sf on Thu, 12 April 2018, 21:07:21
Is there a solution for this? My interest in this case is dependent on finding a way to be able to put MX keycaps on the FC660C that would go in it.
Post by: Vigrith on Thu, 12 April 2018, 21:43:23
Post by: sodiumjoe on Fri, 13 April 2018, 00:10:47
I'm a Topre n00b, I know there are sliders that let you convert the switches to work with MX keycaps, but my basic research seems to indicate that the space bar on a FC660c is problematic to convert to MX because of the stabilizers.check this thread: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93802.0
Is there a solution for this? My interest in this case is dependent on finding a way to be able to put MX keycaps on the FC660C that would go in it.
tl;dr it's expensive and a lot of work
Post by: The_judge_168 on Fri, 13 April 2018, 00:45:19
Post by: Hawkfriend on Fri, 13 April 2018, 01:00:16
Topre sliders also change feel of board, so if you haven't tried it before I'd try before going through hassle of making spacebar work. Also a ton PBT / resin Topre spacebars that you can kinda mix with MX capsDo the rgb sliders work?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Trente on Fri, 13 April 2018, 01:35:28
Post by: Wetherbee on Fri, 13 April 2018, 06:31:11
Do the rgb sliders work?
RGB sliders only work in RGB housings because the dimensions are different on both the slider and housing. #keyboardscience
Post by: wishful_cynic on Fri, 13 April 2018, 12:01:18
I'm a Topre n00b, I know there are sliders that let you convert the switches to work with MX keycaps, but my basic research seems to indicate that the space bar on a FC660c is problematic to convert to MX because of the stabilizers.check this thread: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93802.0
Is there a solution for this? My interest in this case is dependent on finding a way to be able to put MX keycaps on the FC660C that would go in it.
tl;dr it's expensive and a lot of work
As someone else noted, adding MX sliders to a topre board significantly reduces the feel of the board. Most people prefer an MX switch over topre-to-MX sliders.
Have you tried a topre board? The stock keycaps on a Leopold, for example, are superbly textured PBT that feel fantastic. I'm not sure why you would want to change that. They look great, too. Very clean.
Post by: dc_in_sf on Fri, 13 April 2018, 16:04:17
I'm a Topre n00b, I know there are sliders that let you convert the switches to work with MX keycaps, but my basic research seems to indicate that the space bar on a FC660c is problematic to convert to MX because of the stabilizers.check this thread: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93802.0
Is there a solution for this? My interest in this case is dependent on finding a way to be able to put MX keycaps on the FC660C that would go in it.
tl;dr it's expensive and a lot of work
As someone else noted, adding MX sliders to a topre board significantly reduces the feel of the board. Most people prefer an MX switch over topre-to-MX sliders.
Have you tried a topre board? The stock keycaps on a Leopold, for example, are superbly textured PBT that feel fantastic. I'm not sure why you would want to change that. They look great, too. Very clean.
Thanks for all the replies. Swapping out keycaps is one of the things I happen to enjoy about this hobby, so Topre may be a no go for me personally at the moment.
A pity, the case looks fun, and the 65% form factor is my personal favorite (I have a clueboard, a whitefox and the LZ st).
Post by: Mr_BeastQuake on Sun, 15 April 2018, 11:06:51
I'm a Topre n00b, I know there are sliders that let you convert the switches to work with MX keycaps, but my basic research seems to indicate that the space bar on a FC660c is problematic to convert to MX because of the stabilizers.
Is there a solution for this? My interest in this case is dependent on finding a way to be able to put MX keycaps on the FC660C that would go in it.
You really need to get Novatouch sliders and x4 modifier housings w/ stabilizers. This is not an easy task to accomplish on the cheap. Frankly, not many people are gutting their Novatouches to sell just the sliders but if you find one good. Otherwise, buy Novatouch, harvest sliders, sell guts. It’ll be expensive but oh well. The spacebar is less simple but there’s info out there on it.
Source: https://imgur.com/a/e6dlg
Post by: Vigrith on Sun, 15 April 2018, 13:23:00
You really need to get Novatouch sliders and x4 modifier housings w/ stabilizers. This is not an easy task to accomplish on the cheap. Frankly, not many people are gutting their Novatouches to sell just the sliders but if you find one good. Otherwise, buy Novatouch, harvest sliders, sell guts. It’ll be expensive but oh well. The spacebar is less simple but there’s info out there on it.
Source: https://imgur.com/a/e6dlg
Or just go on KBDfans and buy sliders for $30.
Post by: Kerasan on Sun, 15 April 2018, 13:32:19
But he does'nt solve the problem of the spacebarYou really need to get Novatouch sliders and x4 modifier housings w/ stabilizers. This is not an easy task to accomplish on the cheap. Frankly, not many people are gutting their Novatouches to sell just the sliders but if you find one good. Otherwise, buy Novatouch, harvest sliders, sell guts. It’ll be expensive but oh well. The spacebar is less simple but there’s info out there on it.
Source: https://imgur.com/a/e6dlg
Or just go on KBDfans and buy sliders for $30.
Inviato dal mio LG-D855 utilizzando Tapatalk
Post by: Vigrith on Sun, 15 April 2018, 13:46:40
But he does'nt solve the problem of the spacebar
I'm aware, I just meant that for the rest of the board the KBDfans sliders are almost as good/consistent as the Novatouch ones and are probably 10 to 15 times cheaper.
Post by: Mr_BeastQuake on Sun, 15 April 2018, 14:08:26
But he does'nt solve the problem of the spacebar
I'm aware, I just meant that for the rest of the board the KBDfans sliders are almost as good/consistent as the Novatouch ones and are probably 10 to 15 times cheaper.
Kind of lost track of that as an option after initial reviews of the aliexpress ones. Do they come with the modifiers? Cuz personally I was goning to look at JTK or whatever but the big constraint is the modifier housings. As tough as it is to get someone to sell you just Nt sliders, just NT modifiers may be more difficult.
Post by: MajorKoos on Sun, 15 April 2018, 20:17:21
But he does'nt solve the problem of the spacebar
I'm aware, I just meant that for the rest of the board the KBDfans sliders are almost as good/consistent as the Novatouch ones and are probably 10 to 15 times cheaper.
Kind of lost track of that as an option after initial reviews of the aliexpress ones. Do they come with the modifiers? Cuz personally I was goning to look at JTK or whatever but the big constraint is the modifier housings. As tough as it is to get someone to sell you just Nt sliders, just NT modifiers may be more difficult.
Would the NT housings also work in the case of the spacebar or is something different required?
Post by: Mr_BeastQuake on Mon, 16 April 2018, 12:48:01
Would the NT housings also work in the case of the spacebar or is something different required?
As far as can you swap spacebar stuff with a Novatouch, yes you can. May be you need to use FC660C stabilizer wire with the MX compatible stabilizer tabs. In some cases, it is about whether or not the keyset you want to use has a compatible 6u center stemmed spacebar. Mine didn't and I had a Topre spacebar that matched well so I left it.
Post by: MajorKoos on Mon, 16 April 2018, 17:03:49
Would the NT housings also work in the case of the spacebar or is something different required?
As far as can you swap spacebar stuff with a Novatouch, yes you can. May be you need to use FC660C stabilizer wire with the MX compatible stabilizer tabs. In some cases, it is about whether or not the keyset you want to use has a compatible 6u center stemmed spacebar. Mine didn't and I had a Topre spacebar that matched well so I left it.
Thanks.
Does GMK even make a 6u center stem spacebar?
Post by: xondat on Mon, 16 April 2018, 17:06:13
Would the NT housings also work in the case of the spacebar or is something different required?
As far as can you swap spacebar stuff with a Novatouch, yes you can. May be you need to use FC660C stabilizer wire with the MX compatible stabilizer tabs. In some cases, it is about whether or not the keyset you want to use has a compatible 6u center stemmed spacebar. Mine didn't and I had a Topre spacebar that matched well so I left it.
Thanks.
Does GMK even make a 6u center stem spacebar?
Yes, along with off-set too.
Post by: MajorKoos on Mon, 16 April 2018, 19:09:06
Would the NT housings also work in the case of the spacebar or is something different required?
As far as can you swap spacebar stuff with a Novatouch, yes you can. May be you need to use FC660C stabilizer wire with the MX compatible stabilizer tabs. In some cases, it is about whether or not the keyset you want to use has a compatible 6u center stemmed spacebar. Mine didn't and I had a Topre spacebar that matched well so I left it.
Thanks.
Does GMK even make a 6u center stem spacebar?
Yes, along with off-set too.
All my 6u GMK spacebars have the off-center stem :(
A search of PMK's inventory also turned up empty.
Any pointers where else I could look?
Post by: Mr_BeastQuake on Mon, 16 April 2018, 20:54:43
All my 6u GMK spacebars have the off-center stem :(
A search of PMK's inventory also turned up empty.
Any pointers where else I could look?
I thought a lot of the new sets had the centered spacebar? My recommendation would be to consider the set you are trying to use and whether there is a Topre spacebar that is a good match. Here's an example of a stock Leopold spacebar with a Dolch colorway:
https://imgur.com/a/vlU7O
The stock dark grey Topre color matches a lot of the N9 colors fairly well also.
Post by: elcubismo on Mon, 16 April 2018, 23:42:03
Post by: elcubismo on Tue, 17 April 2018, 14:44:21
(https://i.imgur.com/7kX7Z84.jpg)
Post by: ChrisSwires on Thu, 19 April 2018, 04:22:42
I'm going to presume it's a tentative yes and get excited either way.
Post by: elcubismo on Thu, 19 April 2018, 09:33:46
Any intentions of doing an FC660m version in the future? Love the design (and the 660 layout) but not a massive Topre fan.
I'm going to presume it's a tentative yes and get excited either way.
There have already been sales for slim aluminum cases for the M model (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/aluminum-case-for-leopold-fc660m). The M/C cases are not compatible with each other because of usb port positions
Post by: Korseir on Fri, 20 April 2018, 09:35:06
ooooo I can't wait for this to drop! Hopefully you can find a way to pay homage to the original by having the capacitance formula
Going to have to agree with this guy about the capacitance formula :)
Also I am on the wagon of agreeing the case could be slightly thinner to be similar to the norbaforce that you designed ;D
Post by: elcubismo on Fri, 20 April 2018, 09:57:59
ooooo I can't wait for this to drop! Hopefully you can find a way to pay homage to the original by having the capacitance formula
Going to have to agree with this guy about the capacitance formula :)
I forget the name of the person, but I had asked someone who makes those fancy red/gold and silver/blue hhkb stickers if they would be willing to make a Leopold capacitance formula sticker. They said they could work on it, but they wanted to know the font used for the formula. Since the FC660C is probably my favorite board ever, I got in contact with someone from Leopold to ask for the font. They told me that it was proprietary and was a custom contract from a Korean artist or whatever and didn't seem interested in sharing the typeface or whatever. *sad trombone nose*
So if Norb decides to look into this, he will probably need to find a different font that is "close enough"
Post by: The_judge_168 on Fri, 20 April 2018, 23:21:42
Post by: tusing on Mon, 23 April 2018, 03:18:49
Having trouble deciding between black, photographer gray, or going with a custom space station white or something:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/7kX7Z84.jpg)
Where did you get those mods for the FC660C? I've looked everywhere and I can't find anyone that makes Topre mods of the right size for the Windows/Fn/Alt keys!
Post by: elcubismo on Mon, 23 April 2018, 13:07:43
Having trouble deciding between black, photographer gray, or going with a custom space station white or something:Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/7kX7Z84.jpg)
Where did you get those mods for the FC660C? I've looked everywhere and I can't find anyone that makes Topre mods of the right size for the Windows/Fn/Alt keys!
I know your pain! They were hard AF to get, and very few people have ever commented about that whenever I share pics lol.
They are Blizzard mods. He's mostly known for his HHKB resin mods but he had a limited run of FC660C resin mods. He had a temporary form that only appeared on r/mechmarket on one day of the week at a certain hour and only stayed up until like 5 or 6 people filled out the form and paid. He doesn't have any more runs for this as far as I can tell, but I do know that he is working on a hi-pro FC660C mod set. Should be interesting.
IMO there is another option for you that I only recently found out about: Clay Caps on mechmarket dyed this user's mods black (https://imgur.com/a/NlDwe) and you can't see the legends at all! Probably wouldn't work for any other color though, since even the darkest blues/reds etc would still show a bit of the legends. I have had Clay Caps dye some of my blanks red for the above board, but didn't even know he could have dyed my mods like that. Would probably be significantly cheaper too.
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 29 April 2018, 20:05:20
However, we don't necessarily have to mimic the fc660c exactly for the risers angle. Is there a good safe consensus angle to choose that is likely to please most people who want the extra incline of risers?
This following images show a total 8 degrees with risers installed, and even this looks pretty severe to me.
(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/8degrees1.png)
(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/8degrees2.png)
Thoughts welcome. :)
Post by: BobCarltheThird on Sun, 29 April 2018, 20:22:46
Hey all. I'm working on the risers design right now. The native angle of the fc660c without its flip-out feet deployed is 3 degrees. I have in my notes that the incline of the fc660c with its flip-out feet deployed is 10 degrees—and, to be precise, I'm talking about the angle between the tabletop and the top (typing) face of the keyboard.Personally I think an incline of 6-7 would be close enough to be comfortable.
However, we don't necessarily have to mimic the fc660c exactly for the risers angle. Is there a good safe consensus angle to choose that is likely to please most people who want the extra incline of risers?
This following images show a total 8 degrees with risers installed, and even this looks pretty severe to me.Show Image(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/8degrees1.png)Show Image(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/8degrees2.png)
Thoughts welcome. :)
Post by: MajorKoos on Sun, 29 April 2018, 20:34:41
Hey all. I'm working on the risers design right now. The native angle of the fc660c without its flip-out feet deployed is 3 degrees. I have in my notes that the incline of the fc660c with its flip-out feet deployed is 10 degrees—and, to be precise, I'm talking about the angle between the tabletop and the top (typing) face of the keyboard.Personally I think an incline of 6-7 would be close enough to be comfortable.
However, we don't necessarily have to mimic the fc660c exactly for the risers angle. Is there a good safe consensus angle to choose that is likely to please most people who want the extra incline of risers?
This following images show a total 8 degrees with risers installed, and even this looks pretty severe to me.Show Image(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/8degrees1.png)Show Image(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/8degrees2.png)
Thoughts welcome. :)
The mt3 profile used by /dev/tty is optimized for something between 5-7 degrees
Some detail on the profile and how it compares to SA and Cherry here: https://matt3o.com/about-mt3-profile-and-devtty-set/
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 29 April 2018, 20:49:36
(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/6degrees.png)
Post by: Vigrith on Sun, 29 April 2018, 20:54:28
For a board like this, I'd say 6 would be a good compromise and by far the best solution.
Post by: haydoselefantes on Mon, 30 April 2018, 14:34:16
The Heavy-6 has a native slope angle that matches that of the FC660C (without its flip-out feet deployed).
The native angle of the fc660c without its flip-out feet deployed is 3 degrees.
Just to make certain: can we expect a three degree angle on the Heavy-6 without risers?
Post by: le_wraith on Mon, 30 April 2018, 22:40:10
Post by: syke on Sat, 05 May 2018, 17:52:10
Post by: Korseir on Sat, 05 May 2018, 20:29:23
The Heavy-6 has a native slope angle that matches that of the FC660C (without its flip-out feet deployed).The native angle of the fc660c without its flip-out feet deployed is 3 degrees.
Just to make certain: can we expect a three degree angle on the Heavy-6 without risers?
the flatter the better ;D
Post by: tanvir175 on Sat, 05 May 2018, 23:44:33
Post by: derzemel on Sun, 06 May 2018, 00:26:12
So, is the next step a premium housing for the HHKB? (please say yes)That would be a very hard and expensive one to make because the plate and top case are one piece on the HHKB.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Post by: tanvir175 on Sun, 06 May 2018, 01:02:06
So, is the next step a premium housing for the HHKB? (please say yes)That would be a very hard and expensive one to make because the plate and top case are one piece on the HHKB.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Oh right, I forgot about that. RIP
Post by: Kerasan on Sun, 06 May 2018, 01:21:44
KMK Labs.
Post by: G1LL3Y on Sun, 06 May 2018, 18:26:05
Post by: haydoselefantes on Mon, 07 May 2018, 10:17:20
the flatter the better ;DThat's what I was getting at, actually :) I probably should have been more direct
Post by: Rumblehotep on Mon, 07 May 2018, 23:10:10
So, is the next step a premium housing for the HHKB? (please say yes)That would be a very hard and expensive one to make because the plate and top case are one piece on the HHKB.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Hmm how much of a difference would replacing the bottom part of the hhkb case with metal accomplish?
Post by: xondat on Mon, 07 May 2018, 23:46:06
So, is the next step a premium housing for the HHKB? (please say yes)That would be a very hard and expensive one to make because the plate and top case are one piece on the HHKB.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Hmm how much of a difference would replacing the bottom part of the hhkb case with metal accomplish?
No one has ever done that so let’s not expect close answers :p
Although you can estimate that the sound signature would change dramatically, feel not so much, if at all.
Post by: elcubismo on Wed, 09 May 2018, 00:06:57
Post by: xondat on Wed, 09 May 2018, 14:09:36
Just had a thought - can we see INSIDE the prototype? I wonder how much space is in there.
Could see his signature and get an idea for it :))
Post by: elcubismo on Wed, 09 May 2018, 15:07:01
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Mon, 14 May 2018, 13:28:53
I agree with what you guys said. 6 degrees looks much more sane to me.Show Image(https://cdn.norbauer.com/webshares/fc660c/6degrees.png)
6* looks spot on :)
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 May 2018, 14:24:44
Also, I was out of town (back in Boston) for a couple of weeks and am just now catching up correspondence. Sorry I didn't answer your questions here earlier, but see below.
Just to make certain: can we expect a three degree angle on the Heavy-6 without risers?
Affirmative.
Motorsport yellow + GMK Serika gonna be lit. :cool: :cool: :cool:
Agreed. I'm actually really excited about this color/finish.
It's hard but not impossible. However next project are RF numpad and tkl bag. (2019 hhkb? :cool:)
Everything you said. :)
Just had a thought - can we see INSIDE the prototype? I wonder how much space is in there.
There is quite a lot of space to accommodate the sub-PCB. I have made some updates to the design as described above compared to the prototype I showed last, which includes a pretty significant change to that interior space, so I'll go ahead and wait until the next prototype comes back to me to take photos of the interior. But if I forget when I post the new prototype photos, feel free to remind me. ;)
Post by: omjak on Thu, 17 May 2018, 19:24:40
...for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600...
For comparison sake, what would be an approximate price range for the aluminum anodized / powder coated?
I suppose if the difference may be significant.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 May 2018, 19:26:11
...for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600...
For comparison sake, what would be an approximate price range for the aluminum anodized / powder coated?
I suppose if the difference may be significant.
On average, probably about half that. ;)
Post by: le_wraith on Thu, 17 May 2018, 19:36:01
Hi all. So I'm still looking at stainless and PVD coating. It's really, really expensive, but I'm still kind of digging it. I'm told it's fantastically durable and all the photos I've seen make it look awesome. Because the entire assembly would also be stainless steel, the case would be enormously heavy. Before I invest the huge amount of money required to get a prototype in Stainless Steel with PVD, I wanted to ask if literally anyone would be up for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600, as I think it almost inevitably would be.
Does stainless steel w/ PVD work with all of the same color options? I'm likely in for it. I REALLY love superheavy boards.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 May 2018, 19:37:56
Hi all. So I'm still looking at stainless and PVD coating. It's really, really expensive, but I'm still kind of digging it. I'm told it's fantastically durable and all the photos I've seen make it look awesome. Because the entire assembly would also be stainless steel, the case would be enormously heavy. Before I invest the huge amount of money required to get a prototype in Stainless Steel with PVD, I wanted to ask if literally anyone would be up for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600, as I think it almost inevitably would be.
Does stainless steel w/ PVD work with all of the same color options? I'm likely in for it. I REALLY love superheavy boards.
The color option for PVD would simply be black. I believe they're using DLC (Diamond-like carbon), which is very durable but only comes in that color for technical reasons.
Post by: le_wraith on Thu, 17 May 2018, 19:54:37
IDK, might have to see a prototype to decide. = )
Post by: elcubismo on Thu, 17 May 2018, 23:04:34
Post by: HighNoon on Thu, 17 May 2018, 23:40:41
I really love my fc660c and my baby deserves nothing but the best, but that's going to be quite a bit out of my price range unfortunately. Sounds amazing though ( ._.)
Agreed. $500-$600 is too much for me as well. I'll stick with aluminum and get one of the powder options if I decide to splurge.
Post by: omjak on Fri, 18 May 2018, 00:06:46
Post by: gilmoregrills on Fri, 18 May 2018, 03:13:49
Post by: le_wraith on Fri, 18 May 2018, 11:53:07
Post by: haydoselefantes on Fri, 18 May 2018, 12:29:17
if literally anyone would be up for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600, as I think it almost inevitably would be.
I'm tentatively interested at that price. It might give me the impetus to divest myself of all my MX stuff and go all in on Topre.
Ideally, the Norbaforce would arrive and I could use it for a while before I have to commit to Heavy-6.
Post by: mrkantz on Fri, 18 May 2018, 12:35:46
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 18 May 2018, 12:38:11
Post by: moitorpsychoo on Fri, 18 May 2018, 12:42:13
Post by: Hawkfriend on Fri, 18 May 2018, 14:08:38
Now that i’m thinking about suspension coatings, just wondering if it would be possible to get it done in Kashima costing? However, that might make the cost too ridiculous...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: le_wraith on Fri, 18 May 2018, 14:52:52
edit:
Judging from this: http://www.totalcontrolsuspension.com/coatings it looks like Kashima must be only slightly more expensive than DLC but maybe I'm missing something.
Post by: aggiejy on Fri, 18 May 2018, 16:57:53
Post by: elcubismo on Fri, 18 May 2018, 17:05:40
I *think* I'd be in for a steel version in that price range, though would certainly appreciate it if it came in below budget. :) Sounds glorious. It'd be silver in color with the coating, right?
No, he already mentioned it would be black:
Hi all. So I'm still looking at stainless and PVD coating. It's really, really expensive, but I'm still kind of digging it. I'm told it's fantastically durable and all the photos I've seen make it look awesome. Because the entire assembly would also be stainless steel, the case would be enormously heavy. Before I invest the huge amount of money required to get a prototype in Stainless Steel with PVD, I wanted to ask if literally anyone would be up for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600, as I think it almost inevitably would be.
Does stainless steel w/ PVD work with all of the same color options? I'm likely in for it. I REALLY love superheavy boards.
The color option for PVD would simply be black. I believe they're using DLC (Diamond-like carbon), which is very durable but only comes in that color for technical reasons.
Post by: aggiejy on Fri, 18 May 2018, 22:42:40
No, he already mentioned it would be black:
Oh, sorry. I take that back then. I'd want it to unmistakingly look like polished steel. :)
Post by: mpalen19 on Wed, 23 May 2018, 23:03:40
Hi all. So I'm still looking at stainless and PVD coating. It's really, really expensive, but I'm still kind of digging it. I'm told it's fantastically durable and all the photos I've seen make it look awesome. Because the entire assembly would also be stainless steel, the case would be enormously heavy. Before I invest the huge amount of money required to get a prototype in Stainless Steel with PVD, I wanted to ask if literally anyone would be up for a steel PVD case if the cost were around $500-600, as I think it almost inevitably would be.
Would the PVD coating be matte or polished? I'd be interested to see what a polished version would look like. Normally companies that do this type of coating produce small metal samples to give an idea what the finish would look like too.
Post by: digitalmachinist on Thu, 24 May 2018, 23:00:42
I'm new to the Topre/FC660C club, but I've been trying to really make this board special and different with a few mods and this case seems like the perfect addition to really make a stand-out piece both to display and use.
Based on the thread above, here's my two cents:
1. Having the option of risers seems important. 6 degrees is a good incline. I find that 10 degree incline of the FC660C with its feet deployed is a bit too large and trips me up sometimes, yet 3 degrees withe the feet folded in is far too flat.
2. $500-600USD is way too rich for my blood (also I'm Canadian so add 30% to that to get CDN...) so no chance I'm in for the stainless body. That being said, it sounds pretty gorgeous and just absurdly beefy so I think the aesthetic of it is a great match. I'd love to see this done, even if I can't afford to actually have it sitting on my desk.
3. Motorsport yellow! I have a set of matt3o's MT3 /dev/tty caps on order and I'm pretty sure motorsport will be a fantastic color match between the grey and red, (ens especially with the yellow keys that come with the novelties pack). It would also match the triumph sets remarkably well.
4. Case height/weight isn't a big issue for me but it seems like lots of people want portability thought about. That being said, the aesthetic you're going for is clearly industrial and heavy so go with your gut and make the case that fits your aesthetic best. You clearly have good taste, norbauer.
5. Personally I think a maker's mark is great. If it's possible to make it optional for people without it making the whole run cost-prohibitive that would be ideal, but you also have the right to make that statement. People who think this makes your products seem corporate forget that graphic/signature "branding" is just a modern corporate behaviour lifted from the world of artisinal crafting that largely came before it. Go with what feels right to you.
6. Hasu compatibility is awesome. I don't have one yet but its on my list of mods I definitely want.
Even at the lower price range of $200-300USD, this is a lot for me (especially since I've probably already paid $500 into this board so far...), but I'm really psyched for this case and I'll be strongly considering joining the GB when it opens.
Keep up the fantastic work, norbauer!
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 25 May 2018, 00:33:31
3. Motorsport yellow! I have a set of matt3o's MT3 /dev/tty caps on order and I'm pretty sure motorsport will be a fantastic color match between the grey and red, (ens especially with the yellow keys that come with the novelties pack). It would also match the triumph sets remarkably well.
I actually really love the pairing of this yellow with red. I'm thinking of doing an aluminum and red enamel logo badge with those.
I now have samples of the logo badges, btw. I think they're pretty subtle but look very cool. I look forward to being able to post photos with a finished prototype when the next round of parts arrives in a few weeks.
Post by: digitalmachinist on Fri, 25 May 2018, 02:56:34
I now have samples of the logo badges, btw. I think they're pretty subtle but look very cool. I look forward to being able to post photos with a finished prototype when the next round of parts arrives in a few weeks.
I'm excited to see the progress! :cool:
Post by: wishful_cynic on Fri, 25 May 2018, 10:12:24
I now have samples of the logo badges, btw. I think they're pretty subtle but look very cool. I look forward to being able to post photos with a finished prototype when the next round of parts arrives in a few weeks.
I'm excited to see the progress! :cool:
Same, I'm so excited this project is happening.
Post by: Luna on Fri, 25 May 2018, 22:07:54
Same, I'm so excited this project is happening.
Same here, definitely getting one for my highly modded Leopold: Hasu controller, Novatouch sliders and Hyperspheres. Still waiting for the /dev/tty caps and then this case.
Post by: olivia on Sat, 26 May 2018, 18:23:02
Cool. Yes, I think I'll probably do a prototype in steel with PVD just to see how it turns out, and we can take it from there. I'm getting the latest version done up in aluminum first to check the design since a steel prototype is fantastically expensive and I definitely don't want to have to make that one twice. :)
Just to throw my opinion into the mix, I'd definitely by interested in a steel case :D or really any exotic metal ;D
Post by: moitorpsychoo on Sat, 26 May 2018, 18:35:19
I feel like I'm a little late to this party, but I'll have you know that I registered a geekhack account specifically because of this! Thanks to /u/motorpsychoo on reddit for plugging the Heavy-6 and starting me down this rabbit hole.
I'm new to the Topre/FC660C club, but I've been trying to really make this board special and different with a few mods and this case seems like the perfect addition to really make a stand-out piece both to display and use.
Based on the thread above, here's my two cents:
1. Having the option of risers seems important. 6 degrees is a good incline. I find that 10 degree incline of the FC660C with its feet deployed is a bit too large and trips me up sometimes, yet 3 degrees withe the feet folded in is far too flat.
2. $500-600USD is way too rich for my blood (also I'm Canadian so add 30% to that to get CDN...) so no chance I'm in for the stainless body. That being said, it sounds pretty gorgeous and just absurdly beefy so I think the aesthetic of it is a great match. I'd love to see this done, even if I can't afford to actually have it sitting on my desk.
3. Motorsport yellow! I have a set of matt3o's MT3 /dev/tty caps on order and I'm pretty sure motorsport will be a fantastic color match between the grey and red, (ens especially with the yellow keys that come with the novelties pack). It would also match the triumph sets remarkably well.
4. Case height/weight isn't a big issue for me but it seems like lots of people want portability thought about. That being said, the aesthetic you're going for is clearly industrial and heavy so go with your gut and make the case that fits your aesthetic best. You clearly have good taste, norbauer.
5. Personally I think a maker's mark is great. If it's possible to make it optional for people without it making the whole run cost-prohibitive that would be ideal, but you also have the right to make that statement. People who think this makes your products seem corporate forget that graphic/signature "branding" is just a modern corporate behaviour lifted from the world of artisinal crafting that largely came before it. Go with what feels right to you.
6. Hasu compatibility is awesome. I don't have one yet but its on my list of mods I definitely want.
Even at the lower price range of $200-300USD, this is a lot for me (especially since I've probably already paid $500 into this board so far...), but I'm really psyched for this case and I'll be strongly considering joining the GB when it opens.
Keep up the fantastic work, norbauer!
Ha! /u/motorpsychoo here. I’m glad we are all coming down this rabbit hole together :)
Post by: digitalmachinist on Sun, 27 May 2018, 11:39:43
I feel like I'm a little late to this party, but I'll have you know that I registered a geekhack account specifically because of this! Thanks to /u/motorpsychoo on reddit for plugging the Heavy-6 and starting me down this rabbit hole.
I'm new to the Topre/FC660C club, but I've been trying to really make this board special and different with a few mods and this case seems like the perfect addition to really make a stand-out piece both to display and use.
Based on the thread above, here's my two cents:
1. Having the option of risers seems important. 6 degrees is a good incline. I find that 10 degree incline of the FC660C with its feet deployed is a bit too large and trips me up sometimes, yet 3 degrees withe the feet folded in is far too flat.
2. $500-600USD is way too rich for my blood (also I'm Canadian so add 30% to that to get CDN...) so no chance I'm in for the stainless body. That being said, it sounds pretty gorgeous and just absurdly beefy so I think the aesthetic of it is a great match. I'd love to see this done, even if I can't afford to actually have it sitting on my desk.
3. Motorsport yellow! I have a set of matt3o's MT3 /dev/tty caps on order and I'm pretty sure motorsport will be a fantastic color match between the grey and red, (ens especially with the yellow keys that come with the novelties pack). It would also match the triumph sets remarkably well.
4. Case height/weight isn't a big issue for me but it seems like lots of people want portability thought about. That being said, the aesthetic you're going for is clearly industrial and heavy so go with your gut and make the case that fits your aesthetic best. You clearly have good taste, norbauer.
5. Personally I think a maker's mark is great. If it's possible to make it optional for people without it making the whole run cost-prohibitive that would be ideal, but you also have the right to make that statement. People who think this makes your products seem corporate forget that graphic/signature "branding" is just a modern corporate behaviour lifted from the world of artisinal crafting that largely came before it. Go with what feels right to you.
6. Hasu compatibility is awesome. I don't have one yet but its on my list of mods I definitely want.
Even at the lower price range of $200-300USD, this is a lot for me (especially since I've probably already paid $500 into this board so far...), but I'm really psyched for this case and I'll be strongly considering joining the GB when it opens.
Keep up the fantastic work, norbauer!
Ha! /u/motorpsychoo here. I’m glad we are all coming down this rabbit hole together :)
From reading the thread above I figured that must be you. :)
Thanks for tipping me off!
My wallet is less happy. :-\
Post by: dario on Sun, 27 May 2018, 18:12:05
I think copper/black would be a killer combo, just like the color scheme Klipsch uses for their audio equipment. Copper powder finish + blank black keycaps. Looks good already.
(https://www.lite-magazin.de/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/160617.Klipsch4-1.jpg)
Post by: Korseir on Sun, 27 May 2018, 21:23:55
I feel like I'm a little late to this party, but I'll have you know that I registered a geekhack account specifically because of this! Thanks to /u/motorpsychoo on reddit for plugging the Heavy-6 and starting me down this rabbit hole.
I'm new to the Topre/FC660C club, but I've been trying to really make this board special and different with a few mods and this case seems like the perfect addition to really make a stand-out piece both to display and use.
Based on the thread above, here's my two cents:
1. Having the option of risers seems important. 6 degrees is a good incline. I find that 10 degree incline of the FC660C with its feet deployed is a bit too large and trips me up sometimes, yet 3 degrees withe the feet folded in is far too flat.
2. $500-600USD is way too rich for my blood (also I'm Canadian so add 30% to that to get CDN...) so no chance I'm in for the stainless body. That being said, it sounds pretty gorgeous and just absurdly beefy so I think the aesthetic of it is a great match. I'd love to see this done, even if I can't afford to actually have it sitting on my desk.
3. Motorsport yellow! I have a set of matt3o's MT3 /dev/tty caps on order and I'm pretty sure motorsport will be a fantastic color match between the grey and red, (ens especially with the yellow keys that come with the novelties pack). It would also match the triumph sets remarkably well.
4. Case height/weight isn't a big issue for me but it seems like lots of people want portability thought about. That being said, the aesthetic you're going for is clearly industrial and heavy so go with your gut and make the case that fits your aesthetic best. You clearly have good taste, norbauer.
5. Personally I think a maker's mark is great. If it's possible to make it optional for people without it making the whole run cost-prohibitive that would be ideal, but you also have the right to make that statement. People who think this makes your products seem corporate forget that graphic/signature "branding" is just a modern corporate behaviour lifted from the world of artisinal crafting that largely came before it. Go with what feels right to you.
6. Hasu compatibility is awesome. I don't have one yet but its on my list of mods I definitely want.
Even at the lower price range of $200-300USD, this is a lot for me (especially since I've probably already paid $500 into this board so far...), but I'm really psyched for this case and I'll be strongly considering joining the GB when it opens.
Keep up the fantastic work, norbauer!
Points 1 - 5 I am in agreement with.
Point 6 I have a hasu controller :D.
Really looking forward to how this will turn out
Post by: The_judge_168 on Sun, 27 May 2018, 22:16:58
I never had a Leopold keyboard before, but I'll buy one just so I can have an excuse to buy your case too.
I think copper/black would be a killer combo, just like the color scheme Klipsch uses for their audio equipment. Copper powder finish + blank black keycaps. Looks good already.Show Image(https://www.lite-magazin.de/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/160617.Klipsch4-1.jpg)
Black and copper or even like gold would be pretty cool. Where to find blank black keycaps though
Post by: Luna on Sun, 27 May 2018, 22:28:25
Post by: Hawkfriend on Mon, 28 May 2018, 04:43:48
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: dario on Mon, 28 May 2018, 05:08:08
Where to find blank black keycaps though
Probably nowhere. I've never heard of complete Leopold set, let alone a blank one.
However, I was planing on buying a HHKB blank keyset and than using alphas. It should fit.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 28 May 2018, 11:52:57
Any word on when the GB might start?
I don't have a specific date target, but it's looking like I should be able to get this rolling around the end of June, proximal to KeyCon. I just got photos this morning of the two aluminum prototypes and they look great—should have them later this week or early next. Assuming I'm happy with how they turned out upon in-person inspection, I'll move to a steel/PVD prototype. Allowing for a 2-3 week turnaround on that prototype, that lands roughly around the end of June. Anyway, that's a current rough estimate. :)
Post by: Hawkfriend on Mon, 28 May 2018, 14:59:39
Any word on when the GB might start?
I don't have a specific date target, but it's looking like I should be able to get this rolling around the end of June, proximal to KeyCon. I just got photos this morning of the two aluminum prototypes and they look great—should have them later this week or early next. Assuming I'm happy with how they turned out upon in-person inspection, I'll move to a steel/PVD prototype. Allowing for a 2-3 week turnaround on that prototype, that lands roughly around the end of June. Anyway, that's a current rough estimate. :)
Thanks for the update Ryan - I’m really looking forward to the steel proto.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Rumblehotep on Sat, 02 June 2018, 16:33:56
Post by: norbauer on Sat, 02 June 2018, 17:40:29
Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Post by: moitorpsychoo on Sat, 02 June 2018, 18:17:54
Can’t wait to see them!!!!Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Post by: omjak on Sun, 03 June 2018, 10:09:15
Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
This is how I perceive the Motorsport Yellow combined with Gray keycaps:
(http://st.motortrend.ca/uploads/sites/42/2015/01/2015-Porsche-911-GT3-wheel.jpg)
unfortunately for me, I have the beige/gray caps
Post by: HotRoderX on Sun, 03 June 2018, 10:55:53
Post by: Rob27shred on Sun, 03 June 2018, 10:58:15
Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Awesome to hear, I've already started tossing some money to side for a Heavy-6! :cool:
Post by: LiL_BrOwNiE247 on Thu, 07 June 2018, 08:24:57
Can’t wait to see them!!!!Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Ditto, seeing the real deal will definitely make or break my decision to go in on this.
Post by: lumpofunworth on Thu, 07 June 2018, 08:28:20
Post by: TennisShoeNinja on Thu, 07 June 2018, 08:42:43
Post by: base on Thu, 07 June 2018, 09:33:46
Post by: wishful_cynic on Thu, 07 June 2018, 09:42:23
I've been looking for an excuse to pick up a 660c for a while now, and this is definitely it. :thumb:
It's a great time to pick up a 660c. The new versions are manufactured in Japan, and although I'm not aware of any noticeable differences, that just sounds better than Made In China. There are also more keycap options now, and the PBT dyesub sets are phenomenal, best caps I've used. I just picked up an all-black 660c to replace my black and gray 660c.
Post by: Hongook on Thu, 07 June 2018, 09:44:15
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Thu, 07 June 2018, 11:00:47
Post by: Luna on Thu, 07 June 2018, 11:08:04
Just got my fc660c- did a mx slider swap (with silencing rings), and put bke redux domes in it. Now all I need is a norbauer case for it! ;)
I got me a second, black FC660C and did a slider swap with Nova sliders, added Hyperspheres and a Hasu controller. Waiting for my /dev/tty keycaps to put on it. Add to that a photogrpahers grey Norbauer and it will be magnificent I think!
Wouldn’t mind a pic of that photographers grey.
I didn’t like the Redux domes as much as the Topre ones I must sya. Whic reduxes did you take.
Post by: HOBI3CAT on Thu, 07 June 2018, 12:23:48
Just got my fc660c- did a mx slider swap (with silencing rings), and put bke redux domes in it. Now all I need is a norbauer case for it! ;)
I got me a second, black FC660C and did a slider swap with Nova sliders, added Hyperspheres and a Hasu controller. Waiting for my /dev/tty keycaps to put on it. Add to that a photogrpahers grey Norbauer and it will be magnificent I think!
Wouldn’t mind a pic of that photographers grey.
I didn’t like the Redux domes as much as the Topre ones I must sya. Whic reduxes did you take.
I put bke heavy domes in- I had them in my norbatouch and loved them. I still need a hasu controller too!
Post by: forstsiven on Thu, 07 June 2018, 13:04:19
I've been looking for an excuse to pick up a 660c for a while now, and this is definitely it. :thumb:
It's a great time to pick up a 660c. The new versions are manufactured in Japan, and although I'm not aware of any noticeable differences, that just sounds better than Made In China. There are also more keycap options now, and the PBT dyesub sets are phenomenal, best caps I've used. I just picked up an all-black 660c to replace my black and gray 660c.
Hmm, good to know -> I may try and sell my current one, which is lubed, and pick up one of the made in china ones. Do you know how 45g Leopold domes compare to BKE redux lights in terms of sound? I understand that the tactility is way increased, but my 45g domes are loud as is already.
Post by: Luna on Thu, 07 June 2018, 13:08:38
Just got my fc660c- did a mx slider swap (with silencing rings), and put bke redux domes in it. Now all I need is a norbauer case for it! ;)
I got me a second, black FC660C and did a slider swap with Nova sliders, added Hyperspheres and a Hasu controller. Waiting for my /dev/tty keycaps to put on it. Add to that a photogrpahers grey Norbauer and it will be magnificent I think!
Wouldn’t mind a pic of that photographers grey.
I didn’t like the Redux domes as much as the Topre ones I must sya. Whic reduxes did you take.
I put bke heavy domes in- I had them in my norbatouch and loved them. I still need a hasu controller too!
I think my problem with the Reduxes are that they have more of a tactile feel and feel more like mech switches than Topre domes to me. Just like with switches I prefer heavy but slightly tactile ones.
Post by: Rumblehotep on Fri, 08 June 2018, 11:44:43
Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
This is how I perceive the Motorsport Yellow combined with Gray keycaps:Show Image(http://st.motortrend.ca/uploads/sites/42/2015/01/2015-Porsche-911-GT3-wheel.jpg)
unfortunately for me, I have the beige/gray caps
The Zambumon/Hotkeys massdrop broke my will, going all in making this combo happen now.
Is it confirmed hasu controller will fit with this case?
Got a bag of heavy & extreme domes but can't bring myself to try them out yet.
HHKB just feels right with 45g and same with the 55g RF. Maybe I'll open them for this finally.
Post by: whytwokay on Fri, 08 June 2018, 20:02:55
Post by: digitalmachinist on Fri, 08 June 2018, 21:00:18
Quote
Hmm, good to know -> I may try and sell my current one, which is lubed, and pick up one of the made in china ones. Do you know how 45g Leopold domes compare to BKE redux lights in terms of sound? I understand that the tactility is way increased, but my 45g domes are loud as is already.
I've got BKE lights installed in my FC660C. If you're interested in the differences in sound between these and stock, boy do I have a present for you:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/8g5uya/modded_leopold_fc660c_typing_tests/
I put this together to track a history of my FC660C mods and what they all sound like. I've also included notes on my impressions of the experience of each mod.
BKE lights are a little louder than stock Topre 45g domes. With silencing rings they're basically the same, because all you hear is the THOCK of the downstroke. If you add in some cabinet liner under your PCB you can make them extremely quiet. The thing I've found is it's a little difficult to find the sweet spot between annoying noise, tactility and pleasurable keyboard sound. Hyperspheres massively reduce annoying upstroke CLACK but also reduce tactility of the dome collapse at the top of the stroke. Cabinet liner reduces both tactility of bottoming out and eliminates the nice THOCK. I expect heavier BKEs can counteract the hyperspheres without making for a loud keystroke. I have some BKE Extremes on the way in the mail right now. Those should be quite an experience. I'll upload sound tests of those once I have the chance to try them out.
Post by: Duckunderscore on Sat, 09 June 2018, 18:49:35
Post by: Hawkfriend on Tue, 12 June 2018, 20:32:30
Just got my fc660c- did a mx slider swap (with silencing rings), and put bke redux domes in it. Now all I need is a norbauer case for it! ;)
I got me a second, black FC660C and did a slider swap with Nova sliders, added Hyperspheres and a Hasu controller. Waiting for my /dev/tty keycaps to put on it. Add to that a photogrpahers grey Norbauer and it will be magnificent I think!
Wouldn’t mind a pic of that photographers grey.
I didn’t like the Redux domes as much as the Topre ones I must sya. Whic reduxes did you take.
I put bke heavy domes in- I had them in my norbatouch and loved them. I still need a hasu controller too!
Which sliders did you use my du?
Post by: moitorpsychoo on Tue, 12 June 2018, 20:36:38
BUY TWO!
1 for the heavy-6 at home, 1 on the go :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: elcubismo on Tue, 12 June 2018, 20:46:27
Post by: dario on Tue, 12 June 2018, 20:57:25
But now... first, I gotta get FC660. Then a metal case. Then a 55g Realforce to transplant domes. Then a silent Realforce to transplant purple sliders. Then a colored keyset. Then a braided cable in a same colorway. Then a hasu controller. Then a soldering iron with a precise microtip to solder my USB-C connector on a hasu PCB.
So yeah... looks like I'm about to sell my house.
Man gotta do what man gotta do.
Post by: HotRoderX on Tue, 12 June 2018, 23:29:50
I'm just thinking to myself. I was a happy man before Heavy 6 was announced. I've lived a pretty good life, and had a pretty good keyboard, heaviliy modified Realforce 88UB.
But now... first, I gotta get FC660. Then a metal case. Then a 55g Realforce to transplant domes. Then a silent Realforce to transplant purple sliders. Then a colored keyset. Then a braided cable in a same colorway. Then a hasu controller. Then a soldering iron with a precise microtip to solder my USB-C connector on a hasu PCB.
So yeah... looks like I'm about to sell my house.
Man gotta do what man gotta do.
I might be wrong but I don't think transplanting a USB C connector on to a Hasu controller would be that simple or even work. I know it was asked about USB-C and it wasn't doable. Which I mean is ok for the most part.
Post by: dario on Wed, 13 June 2018, 01:26:16
I'm just thinking to myself. I was a happy man before Heavy 6 was announced. I've lived a pretty good life, and had a pretty good keyboard, heaviliy modified Realforce 88UB.
But now... first, I gotta get FC660. Then a metal case. Then a 55g Realforce to transplant domes. Then a silent Realforce to transplant purple sliders. Then a colored keyset. Then a braided cable in a same colorway. Then a hasu controller. Then a soldering iron with a precise microtip to solder my USB-C connector on a hasu PCB.
So yeah... looks like I'm about to sell my house.
Man gotta do what man gotta do.
I might be wrong but I don't think transplanting a USB C connector on to a Hasu controller would be that simple or even work. I know it was asked about USB-C and it wasn't doable. Which I mean is ok for the most part.
Hmmm... this is actually interesting. Are you sure about this? Because as far as I know, USBC is not a communication protocol, it is mearly a physical connector that can support multitude standards.
In this case, all we need are five pins. At least, that's what I'm expecting.
Post by: forstsiven on Thu, 14 June 2018, 10:50:35
@forstsivenQuoteHmm, good to know -> I may try and sell my current one, which is lubed, and pick up one of the made in china ones. Do you know how 45g Leopold domes compare to BKE redux lights in terms of sound? I understand that the tactility is way increased, but my 45g domes are loud as is already.
I've got BKE lights installed in my FC660C. If you're interested in the differences in sound between these and stock, boy do I have a present for you:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/8g5uya/modded_leopold_fc660c_typing_tests/
I put this together to track a history of my FC660C mods and what they all sound like. I've also included notes on my impressions of the experience of each mod.
BKE lights are a little louder than stock Topre 45g domes. With silencing rings they're basically the same, because all you hear is the THOCK of the downstroke. If you add in some cabinet liner under your PCB you can make them extremely quiet. The thing I've found is it's a little difficult to find the sweet spot between annoying noise, tactility and pleasurable keyboard sound. Hyperspheres massively reduce annoying upstroke CLACK but also reduce tactility of the dome collapse at the top of the stroke. Cabinet liner reduces both tactility of bottoming out and eliminates the nice THOCK. I expect heavier BKEs can counteract the hyperspheres without making for a loud keystroke. I have some BKE Extremes on the way in the mail right now. Those should be quite an experience. I'll upload sound tests of those once I have the chance to try them out.
Bruh you're the MVP. I have a Realforce 87U w/ BKE extremes which makes me question my sanity a bit because I bought it because reasons even though I have no actual use for it. Most of what I do is gaming at my computer and it's impossible to play fps with BKE extremes.
I was thinking about doing silenced sliders in the bke lights (which I picked up in the limited teal color) and lubing them. The weird thing about the stock domes is that they seem louder than when I first picked up the board.
Post by: digitalmachinist on Thu, 14 June 2018, 12:20:29
@forstsivenQuoteHmm, good to know -> I may try and sell my current one, which is lubed, and pick up one of the made in china ones. Do you know how 45g Leopold domes compare to BKE redux lights in terms of sound? I understand that the tactility is way increased, but my 45g domes are loud as is already.
I've got BKE lights installed in my FC660C. If you're interested in the differences in sound between these and stock, boy do I have a present for you:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/8g5uya/modded_leopold_fc660c_typing_tests/
I put this together to track a history of my FC660C mods and what they all sound like. I've also included notes on my impressions of the experience of each mod.
BKE lights are a little louder than stock Topre 45g domes. With silencing rings they're basically the same, because all you hear is the THOCK of the downstroke. If you add in some cabinet liner under your PCB you can make them extremely quiet. The thing I've found is it's a little difficult to find the sweet spot between annoying noise, tactility and pleasurable keyboard sound. Hyperspheres massively reduce annoying upstroke CLACK but also reduce tactility of the dome collapse at the top of the stroke. Cabinet liner reduces both tactility of bottoming out and eliminates the nice THOCK. I expect heavier BKEs can counteract the hyperspheres without making for a loud keystroke. I have some BKE Extremes on the way in the mail right now. Those should be quite an experience. I'll upload sound tests of those once I have the chance to try them out.
Bruh you're the MVP. I have a Realforce 87U w/ BKE extremes which makes me question my sanity a bit because I bought it because reasons even though I have no actual use for it. Most of what I do is gaming at my computer and it's impossible to play fps with BKE extremes.
I was thinking about doing silenced sliders in the bke lights (which I picked up in the limited teal color) and lubing them. The weird thing about the stock domes is that they seem louder than when I first picked up the board.
Happy to help!
So I just got my own extremes and I'm typing with them as we speak. They're not like I expected, to be honest. The sound they produce is kind of disappointing and while they're probably a little more tactile than heavies I find that they're mostly just really stiff and that makes them more mushy-feeling at the bottom of the keystroke. I'm using them with Hyperspheres and maybe they're a better experience unsilenced, but at the end of the day I think they're just heavier than I'd like. Until trying these I hadn't yet tried a key that was actually too heavy for me, but I've found my limit I guess. I'm actually kind of hoping that I can return them for heavies instead.
I'll post a sound test for them before doing anything but I've got my fingers crossed that Keyclack will accept an exchange.
Post by: le_wraith on Thu, 14 June 2018, 13:19:10
@forstsivenQuoteHmm, good to know -> I may try and sell my current one, which is lubed, and pick up one of the made in china ones. Do you know how 45g Leopold domes compare to BKE redux lights in terms of sound? I understand that the tactility is way increased, but my 45g domes are loud as is already.
I've got BKE lights installed in my FC660C. If you're interested in the differences in sound between these and stock, boy do I have a present for you:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/8g5uya/modded_leopold_fc660c_typing_tests/
I put this together to track a history of my FC660C mods and what they all sound like. I've also included notes on my impressions of the experience of each mod.
BKE lights are a little louder than stock Topre 45g domes. With silencing rings they're basically the same, because all you hear is the THOCK of the downstroke. If you add in some cabinet liner under your PCB you can make them extremely quiet. The thing I've found is it's a little difficult to find the sweet spot between annoying noise, tactility and pleasurable keyboard sound. Hyperspheres massively reduce annoying upstroke CLACK but also reduce tactility of the dome collapse at the top of the stroke. Cabinet liner reduces both tactility of bottoming out and eliminates the nice THOCK. I expect heavier BKEs can counteract the hyperspheres without making for a loud keystroke. I have some BKE Extremes on the way in the mail right now. Those should be quite an experience. I'll upload sound tests of those once I have the chance to try them out.
Bruh you're the MVP. I have a Realforce 87U w/ BKE extremes which makes me question my sanity a bit because I bought it because reasons even though I have no actual use for it. Most of what I do is gaming at my computer and it's impossible to play fps with BKE extremes.
I was thinking about doing silenced sliders in the bke lights (which I picked up in the limited teal color) and lubing them. The weird thing about the stock domes is that they seem louder than when I first picked up the board.
Happy to help!
So I just got my own extremes and I'm typing with them as we speak. They're not like I expected, to be honest. The sound they produce is kind of disappointing and while they're probably a little more tactile than heavies I find that they're mostly just really stiff and that makes them more mushy-feeling at the bottom of the keystroke. I'm using them with Hyperspheres and maybe they're a better experience unsilenced, but at the end of the day I think they're just heavier than I'd like. Until trying these I hadn't yet tried a key that was actually too heavy for me, but I've found my limit I guess. I'm actually kind of hoping that I can return them for heavies instead.
I'll post a sound test for them before doing anything but I've got my fingers crossed that Keyclack will accept an exchange.
I'll buy 'em off if you don't like 'em. = )
But first try lube and give them more of a break-in period. I'm using them with Hi-Pros and hyperspheres on my HHKB and honestly it's my endgame typing experience. Just wonderful. It took a few days of lots of typing before I felt like they were broken in somewhat though.
Post by: digitalmachinist on Thu, 14 June 2018, 15:16:21
@forstsivenQuoteHmm, good to know -> I may try and sell my current one, which is lubed, and pick up one of the made in china ones. Do you know how 45g Leopold domes compare to BKE redux lights in terms of sound? I understand that the tactility is way increased, but my 45g domes are loud as is already.
I've got BKE lights installed in my FC660C. If you're interested in the differences in sound between these and stock, boy do I have a present for you:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/8g5uya/modded_leopold_fc660c_typing_tests/
I put this together to track a history of my FC660C mods and what they all sound like. I've also included notes on my impressions of the experience of each mod.
BKE lights are a little louder than stock Topre 45g domes. With silencing rings they're basically the same, because all you hear is the THOCK of the downstroke. If you add in some cabinet liner under your PCB you can make them extremely quiet. The thing I've found is it's a little difficult to find the sweet spot between annoying noise, tactility and pleasurable keyboard sound. Hyperspheres massively reduce annoying upstroke CLACK but also reduce tactility of the dome collapse at the top of the stroke. Cabinet liner reduces both tactility of bottoming out and eliminates the nice THOCK. I expect heavier BKEs can counteract the hyperspheres without making for a loud keystroke. I have some BKE Extremes on the way in the mail right now. Those should be quite an experience. I'll upload sound tests of those once I have the chance to try them out.
Bruh you're the MVP. I have a Realforce 87U w/ BKE extremes which makes me question my sanity a bit because I bought it because reasons even though I have no actual use for it. Most of what I do is gaming at my computer and it's impossible to play fps with BKE extremes.
I was thinking about doing silenced sliders in the bke lights (which I picked up in the limited teal color) and lubing them. The weird thing about the stock domes is that they seem louder than when I first picked up the board.
Happy to help!
So I just got my own extremes and I'm typing with them as we speak. They're not like I expected, to be honest. The sound they produce is kind of disappointing and while they're probably a little more tactile than heavies I find that they're mostly just really stiff and that makes them more mushy-feeling at the bottom of the keystroke. I'm using them with Hyperspheres and maybe they're a better experience unsilenced, but at the end of the day I think they're just heavier than I'd like. Until trying these I hadn't yet tried a key that was actually too heavy for me, but I've found my limit I guess. I'm actually kind of hoping that I can return them for heavies instead.
I'll post a sound test for them before doing anything but I've got my fingers crossed that Keyclack will accept an exchange.
I'll buy 'em off if you don't like 'em. = )
But first try lube and give them more of a break-in period. I'm using them with Hi-Pros and hyperspheres on my HHKB and honestly it's my endgame typing experience. Just wonderful. It took a few days of lots of typing before I felt like they were broken in somewhat though.
I'm on day 3 or 4 now and I have to admit that I've warmed up to them a bit. At first they really turned me off but after a slight adjustment in my typing style they started to feel a little better.
On day 2 I gave my sliders a fresh bead of lube and that seems like it took care of most of the scratchiness of my MX sliders. The fresh lube could also be responsible for some of the mushiness that I feel when I bottom out. I tried to be conservative with applying it but I know how easy it is to put on a little too much. so that's a possibility.
If you're offering to buy then I guess maybe I'll hold onto them for a little longer and see if I come to like them, but I think probably heavies are right for me. I have a sampler pack of them that I've put on a few keys in the past, but I don't have enough to cover the letters and numbers so I can confirm the "real" typing experience. Currently all my stabilized keys are on heavies and my spacebar is on a light. Escape felt really good as a heavy before. I think they're the right ones for me. It's a shame I've had to go all Goldilocks on these domes before getting the ones that suit me best :p
Post by: le_wraith on Thu, 14 June 2018, 19:57:44
I'm on day 3 or 4 now and I have to admit that I've warmed up to them a bit. At first they really turned me off but after a slight adjustment in my typing style they started to feel a little better.
On day 2 I gave my sliders a fresh bead of lube and that seems like it took care of most of the scratchiness of my MX sliders. The fresh lube could also be responsible for some of the mushiness that I feel when I bottom out. I tried to be conservative with applying it but I know how easy it is to put on a little too much. so that's a possibility.
If you're offering to buy then I guess maybe I'll hold onto them for a little longer and see if I come to like them, but I think probably heavies are right for me. I have a sampler pack of them that I've put on a few keys in the past, but I don't have enough to cover the letters and numbers so I can confirm the "real" typing experience. Currently all my stabilized keys are on heavies and my spacebar is on a light. Escape felt really good as a heavy before. I think they're the right ones for me. It's a shame I've had to go all Goldilocks on these domes before getting the ones that suit me best :p
Haha yeah man that's the beauty of keyboard science. = )
Post by: forstsiven on Sun, 17 June 2018, 14:10:01
Post by: HotRoderX on Sun, 17 June 2018, 19:47:25
Any further ideas on possible powdercoat finishes? Will retro refrigerator be an option? There was a copper-bronze finish for the Coolermaster cases that I think would look fantastic with grey keycaps.
I think he only offering the one color this time. That is the bright yellow color.
Post by: Rumblehotep on Sun, 17 June 2018, 19:52:35
Don't forget Photographer's GrayAny further ideas on possible powdercoat finishes? Will retro refrigerator be an option? There was a copper-bronze finish for the Coolermaster cases that I think would look fantastic with grey keycaps.
I think he only offering the one color this time. That is the bright yellow color.
Post by: forstsiven on Mon, 18 June 2018, 15:43:24
Any further ideas on possible powdercoat finishes? Will retro refrigerator be an option? There was a copper-bronze finish for the Coolermaster cases that I think would look fantastic with grey keycaps.
I think he only offering the one color this time. That is the bright yellow color.
I hope there are more options. Really, really desperately hoping for so, although if not, I suppose the clear anodized will have to do.
Post by: dario on Mon, 18 June 2018, 16:43:15
I'm even thinking Miami Blue or Mexico Blue would look good on my desk. I'm worried about wearing off color through use though, at least in case of powder coating. Anodization is a different thing.
Post by: HotRoderX on Mon, 18 June 2018, 17:26:42
Just read the first page. All kinds of custom colors are available.might be mistaken but pretty sure your going to have a ruff time rubbing off powder coating. I mean they use it on industrial applications all the time and they do rims. Heck they even powder coat car chassis. I just don't see you rubbing a powder coat off given perhaps the ones I am mentioning are not the standard powder coat finishes.
I'm even thinking Miami Blue or Mexico Blue would look good on my desk. I'm worried about wearing off color through use though, at least in case of powder coating. Anodization is a different thing.
Post by: forstsiven on Mon, 18 June 2018, 17:31:20
Just read the first page. All kinds of custom colors are available.
I'm even thinking Miami Blue or Mexico Blue would look good on my desk. I'm worried about wearing off color through use though, at least in case of powder coating. Anodization is a different thing.
I'm trying to get a sense of additional finishes rather than one-offs. I already have a custom powder-coating Norbaforce incoming, but I want to see either A. available custom finishes B. final ones open to everyone through the normal GB.
Post by: Kerasan on Tue, 19 June 2018, 07:49:59
KMK Labs.
Post by: moitorpsychoo on Sun, 24 June 2018, 15:14:11
Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Any photos coming soon? :)
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 24 June 2018, 15:16:44
Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Any photos coming soon? :)
Hehe. Do you guys think I would forget? ;P
The two powder samples and PVD steel are still being completed by their respective vendors. I promise to post pics of all five finishes as soon as I get the remaining parts. :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: moitorpsychoo on Mon, 25 June 2018, 16:57:17
That’s great news!Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Any photos coming soon? :)
Hehe. Do you guys think I would forget? ;P
The two powder samples and PVD steel are still being completed by their respective vendors. I promise to post pics of all five finishes as soon as I get the remaining parts. :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Btw, are you bringing any heavy-6 prototypes to the Keycon this weekend?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 25 June 2018, 16:58:17
That’s great news!Every day the thirst to see what Motorsport Yellow could be grows a little more.
Aluminum protos arrived and look fantastic. Photos soon. Work begins this week on the yellow and steel samples. I’m feeling really great about where things are headed. :)
Any photos coming soon? :)
Hehe. Do you guys think I would forget? ;P
The two powder samples and PVD steel are still being completed by their respective vendors. I promise to post pics of all five finishes as soon as I get the remaining parts. :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Btw, are you bringing any heavy-6 prototypes to the Keycon this weekend?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'm certainly hoping to be able to! I called the powder shop to harass them on Friday and will do so again in a day or two. :)
Post by: Luna on Wed, 27 June 2018, 04:11:22
Are Retro Refrigerator and Galaxy Console among the options for the Heavy-6?
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 27 June 2018, 10:47:43
Are all the colors confirmed yet?
Are Retro Refrigerator and Galaxy Console among the options for the Heavy-6?
I'm planning on two powder-coat finishes only for this run.
Post by: titanium on Fri, 29 June 2018, 03:01:14
Are all the colors confirmed yet?
Are Retro Refrigerator and Galaxy Console among the options for the Heavy-6?
I'm planning on two powder-coat finishes only for this run.
does this confirm that you will have multiple runs of this case!?!?!
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 29 June 2018, 09:39:00
Are all the colors confirmed yet?
Are Retro Refrigerator and Galaxy Console among the options for the Heavy-6?
I'm planning on two powder-coat finishes only for this run.
does this confirm that you will have multiple runs of this case!?!?!
Haha. Goodness no. Maybe let's figure out round 1 goes first and then see how it goes? :D
Post by: titanium on Tue, 03 July 2018, 01:50:16
Post by: Helcera on Tue, 03 July 2018, 11:07:32
I'm not averse to topre boards by any means but as an nordic ISO user getting a FC660C isn't really an option for me. I know FC660M has an ISO version available but for me it kind of defeats the point because I'm not interested in the normal cherry switches it comes with, and I would replace the case and keycaps anyway so I'd rather just buy a pcb and some nicer switches separately. I know in the Heavy-6 the USB seems to have a different placement than in the clueboard pcb but could I maybe get around that somehow?
As a huge fan of heavy cases I'm particularly interested in the steel option. Is there a specific reason why it would only come with a black coating? I mean you explained why that would be the only coating option but I'd be more interested in having no coating at all, I don't mind scratches or that kind of thing. The stone-wash finish would be absolutely ideal for me.
Ungh why is there suddenly an influx of heavy cases with thick bezels, I'm looking at you, modern M0110! That would be the more logical option for me due to issues stated above but as soon as you started talking about steel I started to waver... I wish I was just made of money so I wouldn't have to choose and could just get both.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 03 July 2018, 12:01:06
So my curiosity finally got me to register. I'd like to know if it would be possible to use this case with just a 66% pcb (like a clueboard pcb for example since it seems to support the same layout), or wouldn't that work for some reason?
I'm afraid that this would only fit the FC660C due to it being engineered to fit the specific contours of that board's (somewhat idiosyncratic) plate.
Post by: Luna on Tue, 03 July 2018, 13:41:13
Post by: Vigrith on Tue, 03 July 2018, 14:46:11
That probably means it won't work with the Leopold FC660M as well?
It will not.
Post by: Luna on Tue, 03 July 2018, 15:40:09
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 03 July 2018, 19:17:33
That probably means it won't work with the Leopold FC660M as well?
It will not.
Alas.
Post by: regionfree on Wed, 04 July 2018, 21:39:54
unleash the heavy6, norb. do it. how far are we from the gb? :D
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 04 July 2018, 22:01:56
My black on black fc660c arrived about a month ago. waiting for the heavy6. lonely.
unleash the heavy6, norb. do it. how far are we from the gb? :D
The steel version shows up on Friday. Slowly inching our way there, but getting close, in short. :)
Post by: le_wraith on Thu, 05 July 2018, 20:32:35
I heard you got it today tho. Pls post. Anticipation kills.My black on black fc660c arrived about a month ago. waiting for the heavy6. lonely.
unleash the heavy6, norb. do it. how far are we from the gb? :D
The steel version shows up on Friday. Slowly inching our way there, but getting close, in short. :)
🤣
🤣Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 05 July 2018, 20:35:49
I heard you got it today tho. Pls post. Anticipation kills.My black on black fc660c arrived about a month ago. waiting for the heavy6. lonely.
unleash the heavy6, norb. do it. how far are we from the gb? :D
The steel version shows up on Friday. Slowly inching our way there, but getting close, in short. :)
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
It has been a busy day in keyboards today so haven't had time yet, but I'm happy to report that it looks beautiful. I need to reconfigure my photo studio back to doing pics due to the video I shot today, but with any luck tomorrow or the following few days. :)
Post by: Wetherbee on Thu, 05 July 2018, 20:37:36
It has been a busy day in keyboards today so haven't had time yet, but I'm happy to report that it looks beautiful. I need to reconfigure my photo studio back to doing pics due to the video I shot today, but with any luck tomorrow or the following few days. :)
man.. building that hype and suspense.
Post by: Wetherbee on Thu, 05 July 2018, 20:41:10
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 05 July 2018, 20:42:37
Can we move this thread and updates to keebtalk?
I did already, but the site is getting slammed so much now that it's currently not responding. ;D
Anyway, here's the link (https://www.keebtalk.com/t/the-heavy-6-a-norbauer-case-for-the-fc660c/93/8).
Post by: Rumblehotep on Fri, 06 July 2018, 15:07:01
Post by: HotRoderX on Fri, 06 July 2018, 15:10:38
Post by: Rumblehotep on Fri, 06 July 2018, 15:15:46
Post by: IAmPurple on Fri, 06 July 2018, 20:23:33
Post by: Gobluebro on Sat, 07 July 2018, 08:59:05
https://imgur.com/a/TBbZ8fX This image shows what I'm talking about
In the renders it looked really huge and turned me off from the case. Now with the new photos I think it's not that bad actually but I'd just like some measurement to get a good guess as to what it might be in real life.
Thanks
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 10 July 2018, 23:17:23
Could you give us a measurement of the height of the front?
https://imgur.com/a/TBbZ8fX This image shows what I'm talking about
In the renders it looked really huge and turned me off from the case. Now with the new photos I think it's not that bad actually but I'd just like some measurement to get a good guess as to what it might be in real life.
Thanks
No problem. That dimension is roughly 22.6mm. I've thinned down the case now essentially as much as I can reasonably do and still have everything fit--within the constraints of a metal case anyway. I think the thinner version is a major improvement, while still being nice and hefty and having its characteristic look, so I appreciate the community feedback and was happy to make the change.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 10 July 2018, 23:18:07
Hey, just wondering what the price range will be on this case. Just wanna try and push aside some money for this glorious case :D
I haven't actually finally decided on a factory yet, so I can't say for sure. I went sort of down the rabbit hole with this PVD-steel option. But I'm getting close to finalizing things now.
Post by: Retrospects on Tue, 17 July 2018, 13:58:52
Post by: le_wraith on Wed, 18 July 2018, 12:36:37
🤤Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Post by: bluesclera on Fri, 20 July 2018, 09:54:41
Post by: mrkantz on Fri, 20 July 2018, 10:09:10
Post by: Darknight00z on Sat, 21 July 2018, 17:12:40
Would this fit the Leopold FC660M?
I feel like this should be in the title, every few post we got someone asking if this would fit the M
Post by: HotRoderX on Tue, 21 August 2018, 23:52:20
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 August 2018, 00:04:35
did this thing die out? I hadn't seen any updates in sometime.
Most definitely still happening. I'm just trying to line up some final logistical details. I've been providing updates more regularly over in the KeebTalk thread (https://www.keebtalk.com/t/the-heavy-6-a-norbauer-case-for-the-fc660c/93/91).
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 August 2018, 00:06:28
Pics of steel case. Norbauer pls. 🤤
I actually took pics weeks ago but just haven't yet had a chance to process them for posting, as I've been focusing on sorting out the manufacturing details. Haven't forgotten though, of course, and will do as soon as I can. :D
Post by: HotRoderX on Wed, 22 August 2018, 00:12:26
Post by: Troif on Sun, 02 September 2018, 04:25:03
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 02 September 2018, 14:23:52
Post by: Beatnutz on Wed, 26 September 2018, 07:44:56
I will be making my purchase soon!
Post by: wishful_cynic on Wed, 26 September 2018, 09:09:03
https://shop.norbauer.com/products/heavy-6
Post by: Rumblehotep on Wed, 26 September 2018, 11:10:00
unless zambumon surprises us with F96H at the end of the year...
then that will be final-final...
Ryan the prototypes look amazing, even though I had my heart set on yellow it was still really hard to choose!
Post by: HotRoderX on Wed, 26 September 2018, 11:42:50
Here’s where to buy since this thread has been pretty much abandoned for Keebtalk:
https://shop.norbauer.com/products/heavy-6
yea was kinda sad to see that. It made a huge impact on my desire to buy the Heavy-6 special since Norbauer was so passionate about not wanting a website owned by a company. Then he helps start a website with inputclub. Which both are companies. O will case looks amazing so hopefully the buy turns out great and people really enjoy it.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 26 September 2018, 11:57:44
Here’s where to buy since this thread has been pretty much abandoned for Keebtalk:
https://shop.norbauer.com/products/heavy-6
yea was kinda sad to see that. It made a huge impact on my desire to buy the Heavy-6 special since Norbauer was so passionate about not wanting a website owned by a company. Then he helps start a website with inputclub. Which both are companies. O will case looks amazing so hopefully the buy turns out great and people really enjoy it.
Hehe. I'm not at all anti-company and never said anything to that effect. I just didn't like the way the sale played out, and I kind of viscerally just don't like the idea of a community being controlled by a single entity, company or otherwise. It just seemed like it would be a good idea to have a more multi-lateral thing, operated as a non-profit with more transparent governance—if for no other reason than to act as a check-and-balance/backstop on GeekHack in case things went off the rails here, which thankfully they don't seem to have done too much (at least thus far).
My disengaging here in this thread isn't ideological in nature so much as technical. It's just so much easier to post over at KeebTalk and Reddit (from a purely UX perspective) that it just increases the psychological friction to posting here for me. Having to upload images to my own CDN just to create a group buy post with images in it just seemed like too much work this time around, so I didn't bother to make a GB thread here. Should I?
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 26 September 2018, 11:59:10
Snagged a motorsport and a bag for my final hugemongous keyboard investment of the year
unless zambumon surprises us with F96H at the end of the year...
then that will be final-final...
Ryan the prototypes look amazing, even though I had my heart set on yellow it was still really hard to choose!
Thanks! I think the Motorsport yellow color ended up being my favorite on this project, actually—to my great surprise (since I'm not usually a huge yellow fan). When I see it, my mind thinks Ferrari. :)
Post by: Beatnutz on Wed, 26 September 2018, 15:13:43
..so I didn't bother to make a GB thread here. Should I?
It can't hurt. From a business perspective it sounds like a good idea just to help spread the word.
Post by: Darknight00z on Mon, 08 October 2018, 17:51:14
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 08 October 2018, 17:56:42
Is there a typing video?
Huey from TopClack is working on a review that will probably be out before the group buy closes (this weekend).
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 09 October 2018, 12:32:50