[IC] ALF x Cary — 65% Dolch.CR (gb coming soon, hotswap option added)

[oldcat]

The Dolch Pac keyboard has been an iconic keyboard in the history. Now it comes back with a fresh modern look and more features than ever.

Meet Dolch.CR.



Designed by Cary (CR), the co-designer of ALF X3 Renova and ALF DC60, the Dolch.CR is a 65% customized mechanical keyboard that perfectly integrates the retro-style of the legendary Dolch Pac keyboard with the modern elements of colors, lights, badges, weights, and others.

Images based on Prototype V5.0 will be provided in the next post.

Key Features:

1. Customized badge (front, in place of the Dolch badge),  underglow LED for possible PC badge
2. Improved bottom design
3. 7-degree slope
4. QMK PCB, Optional Hotswap PCB
5. Aluminum 6061
6. Matte Black, Gunpowder Grey or Pearl White (new colors may be available if enough people request in IC form)
7. Options for Polycarbonate (PC) weight and Brass Weight
8. 4XRGB LEDs under the badge
9. Integrated thick plate
10. Manufactured by ALF

Layout Options:


Regular PCB (compatible):


Hotswap PCB (choose either WK or WKL shown below):


Color Options:

Black, Grey, Pearl White

Technical Details

1.with PC weight ~1600g
2. with brass weight ~1800g
3. Front end height is 18mm, 7-degree slope

Currently, the prototype V2.0 is being made by ALF and is coming soon. Please help shape this project by providing useful feedback! Cary will incorporate the feedback if it aligns with his design principles for this project.

11/11/2018: V2 Pearl White prototype is being made now.

11/21/2018: V2 Pearl White prototype is done. 5th Prototype is being made now.

Projected Timeline:

Now - early November: prototyping, feedback gathering, design tweaking and improving
late December 2018 - early Jan 2019: Start Group Buy


Please kindly fill out the Interest Check Form below.

Click to Fill Out the Dolch.CR Interest Check Form

And here is a poll for a potential optional hot-swap PCB:

Update: with many people contacting me making a case for an optional hotswap pcb, Cary will make hotswap an upgrade option for users who are interested.

Poll for Hotswap PCB

[oldcat]

Prototype V5.0 out!!!

[mkarlsson]

Super nice, congrats to the designer!

[donut_sauce]

This looks neat

[avid]

Love this design. Not sure what "matte black" is, but i hope regular anodization in black and grey will be available.

I think this board would look great without a weight as well.

Is this being ran on Z-frontier?

[oldcat]

Love this design. Not sure what "matte black" is, but i hope regular anodization in black and grey will be available.

I think this board would look great without a weight as well.

Is this being ran on Z-frontier?

Hey Matte black is regular Ano with matte finish. Grey is possible - if enough people show interest in the IC process.

It will not run on ZF. Either someone from Team ALF or some vendor ALF partners with.

[befbef]

Love the design too but bad timing for one of you:
https://www.keebtalk.com/t/ic-dolumina-65/3604

Would be happy if one would switch to 60%.

[hayt]

I’m really digging this. Would love to see a greenish gray and red color option.

Can’t wait to see prototype pics!

[T0mb3ry]

Interesting.

1. How is the plate mounted and how much space is in the case? I would love to make one custom *flexing* plate for myself but i needs some space for extensions.
2. How about PCB with Bootmapper client support? Or if there is enough space in the back, make it so that we can choose pcb ourselves.
3. Led indicator/indicators (for caps lock) between the cooling rib would be nice.

[oldcat]

Love the design too but bad timing for one of you:
https://www.keebtalk.com/t/ic-dolumina-65/3604

Would be happy if one would switch to 60%.

Oh no! Cary has been working on this for 3 months, I am sure the other author has been conceiving this for a while, and somehow both ICs are posted today!!

[avid]

Love the design too but bad timing for one of you:
https://www.keebtalk.com/t/ic-dolumina-65/3604

Would be happy if one would switch to 60%.

I prefer the dolch.cr, i think theyre different enough.   Please keep this 65%, this is perfect.

[8six753o9]

Love the design too but bad timing for one of you:
https://www.keebtalk.com/t/ic-dolumina-65/3604

Would be happy if one would switch to 60%.

I saw the Dolch.cr last week on Alf’s Discord before the Dolumina. I think I would go for Dolch.cr because my wallet needs time to recover lol.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rmendis]

Love this! Some other colors could be interesting!

[mushubanane]

Split backspace  ?

[audax989]

really cool design. might want to match the original dolch pac color for the case. I think matte black might be too dark. maybe like a dark grey?

[pixelpusher]

I'm still pissed that the dolch set I have can't accomodate a 65% board.  No proper way to do the right column.  It was my very first custom set to buy years back, and I didn't know about compatibility

[avid]

I'm still pissed that the dolch set I have can't accomodate a 65% board.  No proper way to do the right column.  It was my very first custom set to buy years back, and I didn't know about compatibility

check out kekkon dolch, he made an add-on kit for compatability for older kit.

[UsualSuspectXXX]

This is awesome! Especially with qmk support. I'm in! 

A couple questions
- is this top or bottom mounted?
- will you offer the option to buy additional plates and pcbs?
- what type of plates are offered? Brass, ano, acrylic?
- day other layouts are supported? Split keys, bottom row, etc.
- will there be any indicator lights?
- do you have an estimated price?

[oldcat]

really cool design. might want to match the original dolch pac color for the case. I think matte black might be too dark. maybe like a dark grey?

Cary said he will consider other colors if enough people are interested in those colors during the IC process. Thank you very much for your kind words and the suggestion!

[dantambok]

Looks neat! I hope the price isnt that steep 

[prod]

That's really brilliant! awesome! beautiful!

[oldcat]

Split backspace  ?

Cary said he will provide some compatibility — e.g., WK/WKL, ISO enter. I will check with him about split backspace.

[kivx]

Why is there always a single tooth near arrow keys for 65% keyboard recently?
Could you guys provide a layout/top case without it?

I really like the design of this keyboard, but I prefer the old layout of 65% like M65-A that the bottom-row keys are stick together.

[hhkbp2]

Nice design. I would like to see a bigger weight in Dolch style, but that is just me.

[pixelpusher]

Is the matte black the newer ecoating method?  That would be instant buy for me

[oldcat]

Is the matte black the newer ecoating method?  That would be instant buy for me

Thanks! The Matte Black is regular anodization. The new technology is only available for Pearl White as of now.

[pixelpusher]

Is the matte black the newer ecoating method?  That would be instant buy for me

Thanks! The Matte Black is regular anodization. The new technology is only available for Pearl White as of now.

Well, it still looks spiffy.  I've just unwatched 3 group buys to make sure I don't buy anything until this runs.

[pixelpusher]

So, is the fox leaf the only current board that uses the black e-coating technology then?
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=97011.0

It just looks so nice.  I wonder why your manufacturer can only do white.

[futurecrime]

Nice looking board. Would like to see some more angles.

[Jkush463]

as stated above id like to see more angles for sure looks interesting, reminds me of a wilba case i saw no too long ago in some renders

[switchnollie]

That's really cool

[oldcat]

as stated above id like to see more angles for sure looks interesting, reminds me of a wilba case i saw no too long ago in some renders

here is one for you. Will release more design images soon! Proto is also in progress

[Jkush463]

ooo i like that too proto will tell all though, looks very nice! i shall start padding my wallet 

[pixelpusher]

as stated above id like to see more angles for sure looks interesting, reminds me of a wilba case i saw no too long ago in some renders

here is one for you. Will release more design images soon! Proto is also in progress

(Attachment Link)

oh man... that's perfect.

[oldcat]

Why is there always a single tooth near arrow keys for 65% keyboard recently?
Could you guys provide a layout/top case without it?

I really like the design of this keyboard, but I prefer the old layout of 65% like M65-A that the bottom-row keys are stick together.

Hey do you mean the blocker? Many people want the arrow cluster to be separated a bit
It’s a standard design layout adopted in many keyboards such as Canoe

[kivx]

typo

[kivx]

Why is there always a single tooth near arrow keys for 65% keyboard recently?
Could you guys provide a layout/top case without it?

I really like the design of this keyboard, but I prefer the old layout of 65% like M65-A that the bottom-row keys are stick together.

Hey do you mean the blocker? Many people want the arrow cluster to be separated a bit
It’s a standard design layout adopted in many keyboards such as Canoe

I knew Canoe, but I just don't like the blocker.
If this is the only one layout, I can save my money 

[hervuli]

This is awesome! Especially with qmk support. I'm in! 

A couple questions
- is this top or bottom mounted?
- will you offer the option to buy additional plates and pcbs?
- what type of plates are offered? Brass, ano, acrylic?
- day other layouts are supported? Split keys, bottom row, etc.
- will there be any indicator lights?
- do you have an estimated price?

I'd echo basically all of these questions

[pixelpusher]

I personally like the blocker, and I think it looks really nice on a case such as this where the blocker matches the thickness of the exterior bezels.

[oldcat]

This is awesome! Especially with qmk support. I'm in! 

A couple questions
- is this top or bottom mounted?
- will you offer the option to buy additional plates and pcbs?
- what type of plates are offered? Brass, ano, acrylic?
- day other layouts are supported? Split keys, bottom row, etc.
- will there be any indicator lights?
- do you have an estimated price?

I'd echo basically all of these questions

Hey more information coming soon -:)

[oldcat]

Why is there always a single tooth near arrow keys for 65% keyboard recently?
Could you guys provide a layout/top case without it?

I really like the design of this keyboard, but I prefer the old layout of 65% like M65-A that the bottom-row keys are stick together.

Hey do you mean the blocker? Many people want the arrow cluster to be separated a bit
It’s a standard design layout adopted in many keyboards such as Canoe

I knew Canoe, but I just don't like the blocker.
If this is the only one layout, I can save my money 

I will check with Cary to see if he can offer a version without blocker

[oldcat]

This is awesome! Especially with qmk support. I'm in! 

A couple questions
- is this top or bottom mounted?
- will you offer the option to buy additional plates and pcbs?
- what type of plates are offered? Brass, ano, acrylic?
- day other layouts are supported? Split keys, bottom row, etc.
- will there be any indicator lights?
- do you have an estimated price?

This should clarify most of your questions. It will have a thick integrated plate.

[pixelpusher]

Integrated plate is cool, but I've never seen one yet on a board that wasn't hotswap.  Wonder if that heavy top/plate combo will make it difficult to work with when soldering.

[oldcat]

Integrated plate is cool, but I've never seen one yet on a board that wasn't hotswap.  Wonder if that heavy top/plate combo will make it difficult to work with when soldering.

I think soldering should be ok. The key is to make a really reliable PCB. I will talk to Cary about hotswapping - generally, people's opinions are very polarized about hotswapping.

[switchnollie]

Yeah I've never owned a hotswap board yet.

I've heard of people pulling the switches out when removing caps but a good plate should prevent that.

[oldcat]

Yeah I've never owned a hotswap board yet.

I've heard of people pulling the switches out when removing caps but a good plate should prevent that.

I've had that happen many times with my K-type. I think the plate needs to be really snuggly fit with the switches in order not to. Personally, I prefer soldering as the set up will be much more stable.

[stoic-lemon]

The NIU Mini has an integrated plate and a regular PCB.

[oldcat]

Cary is considering offering hotswap PCB for Dolch.CR with integrated thick plate. What do you guys think?

[hhkbp2]

Cary is considering offering hotswap PCB for Dolch.CR with integrated thick plate. What do you guys think?

Usually only one layout is supported for hotswap PCB due to the hotswap sockets, unless many different types of PCB are provided, which will make the manufacture complex. I prefer to normal PCB which requires soldering, but with the flexibility to change the layout, e.g. split backspace or split right shift.

[oh_chesteroni]

Cary is considering offering hotswap PCB for Dolch.CR with integrated thick plate. What do you guys think?

Usually only one layout is supported for hotswap PCB due to the hotswap sockets, unless many different types of PCB are provided, which will make the manufacture complex. I prefer to normal PCB which requires soldering, but with the flexibility to change the layout, e.g. split backspace or split right shift.

Based on the renders, it looks like only one layout is supported by the plate anyways.

If only one layout is supported by the plate then might as well make the pcb hotswap.

[chouyu]

It looks retro and innovative I‘am in!

[oldcat]

Cary is considering offering hotswap PCB for Dolch.CR with integrated thick plate. What do you guys think?

Usually only one layout is supported for hotswap PCB due to the hotswap sockets, unless many different types of PCB are provided, which will make the manufacture complex. I prefer to normal PCB which requires soldering, but with the flexibility to change the layout, e.g. split backspace or split right shift.

Based on the renders, it looks like only one layout is supported by the plate anyways.

If only one layout is supported by the plate then might as well make the pcb hotswap.

The regular PCB and plate will support a majority of layouts. It is obviously impossible for the hotswap I guess.

[pixelpusher]

Cary is considering offering hotswap PCB for Dolch.CR with integrated thick plate. What do you guys think?

Usually only one layout is supported for hotswap PCB due to the hotswap sockets, unless many different types of PCB are provided, which will make the manufacture complex. I prefer to normal PCB which requires soldering, but with the flexibility to change the layout, e.g. split backspace or split right shift.

Based on the renders, it looks like only one layout is supported by the plate anyways.

If only one layout is supported by the plate then might as well make the pcb hotswap.

The regular PCB and plate will support a majority of layouts. It is obviously impossible for the hotswap I guess.

All good.  I have plenty of hotswap boards already

[oh_chesteroni]

Would you consider having the weight just say "inspired by cherry g80-1813 dolch" and get rid of the "this design is"?

[pixelpusher]

Would you consider having the weight just say "inspired by cherry g80-1813 dolch" and get rid of the "this design is"?

Oh yes, good point. I second this notion.

[oldcat]

Here is a poll for the Hotswap PCB option: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LzmVEDkJ0j0BU0yGbochqWGEGJpH5CcjKxBSmyHgFSE/

[pixelpusher]

Here is a poll for the Hotswap PCB option: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LzmVEDkJ0j0BU0yGbochqWGEGJpH5CcjKxBSmyHgFSE/

Looks like the permissions aren’t right on the form

[oldcat]

Here is a poll for the Hotswap PCB option: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LzmVEDkJ0j0BU0yGbochqWGEGJpH5CcjKxBSmyHgFSE/

Looks like the permissions aren’t right on the form

Sorry! The form has been fixed. My apologies

[Boy_314]

Following, but I wonder how hard cleaning out the dust would be

[pixelpusher]

Following, but I wonder how hard cleaning out the dust would be

Wouldn’t be bad.   Worst case scenario you get a brush and clean it once every other week.

[Cktenders]

Plate looks like there is no option for split backspace. Will that be changed? I love this design but would only be interested if split backspace is an option. Filled out form. Not super interested in fixed hotswap.

[bingo__pajama]

100% in if full backspace hotswap

[oldcat]

Plate looks like there is no option for split backspace. Will that be changed? I love this design but would only be interested if split backspace is an option. Filled out form. Not super interested in fixed hotswap.

I think Cary's goal is to make the plate compatible with many layouts -- its tricky because then hotswap is unlikely to work well.

Regarding hotswap, I think people's opinions are quite polarized, so I am collecting interest and feedback, to inform Cary on the final offerings. Hopefully something that works for most people.

[Oni74]

I'm a bit torn about this one. Based on initial info, my guess is that this is going to be pretty pricey, and given I'd recently joined Doro and Hi-Pro Alt GBs, I'm struggling to justify yet another board. Maybe I'll drop out of Hi-Pro Alt and get this if hot-swap makes it into the options...

So many choices lately - i'm not complaining, but i'm complaining. you know what i'm sayin? ;-)

[ctrl]

I think this looks awesome. Filled out the form and poll.

Would you upload a KLE layout image of all the possible layouts offered by the regular PCB and plate? I'm interested in whether it supports ISO (split LShift and ISO Enter) or not.

Regarding the poll. Hotswap is nice and all, but if you go down that lane, please consider offering the choice of both ANSI and ISO layouts. I've noticed how the frequency of hotswappable PCBs tends to end up enforcing an ANSI layout so if there's a hotswappable ISO option, that'd be something new and unique and I'd be down with that. If you have to settle for an ANSI only hotswappable PCB because of costs, then at the very least I'm hoping you'll offer ISO support with the regular PCB.

[breckstar]

Plate looks like there is no option for split backspace. Will that be changed? I love this design but would only be interested if split backspace is an option. Filled out form. Not super interested in fixed hotswap.

I think Cary's goal is to make the plate compatible with many layouts -- its tricky because then hotswap is unlikely to work well.

Regarding hotswap, I think people's opinions are quite polarized, so I am collecting interest and feedback, to inform Cary on the final offerings. Hopefully something that works for most people.

As odd as it may sound, have yall thought about a combination of hotswap + universal? Hotswap for the standard keys (ie numbers, alphas, esc, tab, arrow keys, etc) then solder the bottom row, shifts, enter/return, backspace?

It's kind of a hybrid and maybe a bit frankenstein-esque, but I think it could work. Would enable people to get the "gist" of different switches, then just having to resolder ~10 switches (bottom row, enter, etc) if they wanted to change fully.

Just a thought. Could be completely nuts and not worth.

[Cktenders]

I don't know how the majority feel, but I care more about getting the exact layout I want, over the convenience (or inconvenience in this case) of having to solder a few/all keys. In other words, your solution would work for me. I like the design enough in this case to be more lenient on HOW I get to the desired layout, so long as it is an option at all. I still think split backspace is a decent group of users especially for 65% and under boards. Hopefully they can accommodate. All that said, I would still prefer to not have hotswap.

[oldcat]

I don't know how the majority feel, but I care more about getting the exact layout I want, over the convenience (or inconvenience in this case) of having to solder a few/all keys. In other words, your solution would work for me. I like the design enough in this case to be more lenient on HOW I get to the desired layout, so long as it is an option at all. I still think split backspace is a decent group of users especially for 65% and under boards. Hopefully they can accommodate. All that said, I would still prefer to not have hotswap.

Yeah my feeling is that opinions on hotswap are quite polarized. I will check with Cary on if both can be provided. More work but may be worth it if there is enough interest.

[Oni74]

I don't know how the majority feel, but I care more about getting the exact layout I want, over the convenience (or inconvenience in this case) of having to solder a few/all keys. In other words, your solution would work for me. I like the design enough in this case to be more lenient on HOW I get to the desired layout, so long as it is an option at all. I still think split backspace is a decent group of users especially for 65% and under boards. Hopefully they can accommodate. All that said, I would still prefer to not have hotswap.

Yeah my feeling is that opinions on hotswap are quite polarized. I will check with Cary on if both can be provided. More work but may be worth it if there is enough interest.

I am on the other side of the fence - I would like hot-swap over the layout flexibility. I just dropped out of the Hi-pro ALT GB after reading about all the QC issues with the Ctrl drop, and am willing to spend a little more for a premium keyboard with all the features including hot-swap.

I am hoping there's enough interest for both configurations to be made available.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[Oblotzky]

Hotswap is for people that make mistakes.

[Oni74]

Hotswap is for people that make mistakes.

I find your presumptuous and inflammatory comment unbecoming of a respected member of the community. Let's stay positive and keep toxicity out of this.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

[Oblotzky]

Hotswap is for people that make mistakes.

I find your presumptuous and inflammatory comment unbecoming of a respected member of the community. Let's stay positive and keep toxicity out of this.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

It was meant to be a joke/friendly banter. No toxicity intended at all.

[Audiobs]

Oh boy, I just joined 2x Doro67 and now this... should have read more before pulling the triggers...

On the topic of hot-swappable PCB, I don't mind either as I am handy with my soldering iron. But given a choice, I will still buy the hot-swappable, epsecially on a premium board like this. I am settled on tactile switches, but still want to try different offerings. I would rather not desolder and solder each time I want to try something. Wait, perhaps that would keep me from trying new switches...   

[OracleKev]

Maybe things have changed, but hotswap sockets are known to get loose after not too many swaps.
This also depends on the quality of the sockets used, type of switches used, how switches were pulled out, etc.
Loose sockets -> PCB float? -> inconsistent feel

I rather solder than deal with unpredictable element in the long run.

[oldcat]

Prototype is done!!!

More information coming very soon!

[hhkbp2]

Maybe things have changed, but hotswap sockets are known to get loose after not too many swaps.
This also depends on the quality of the sockets used, type of switches used, how switches were pulled out, etc.
Loose sockets -> PCB float? -> inconsistent feel

I rather solder than deal with unpredictable element in the long run.

+1

[oldcat]

Maybe things have changed, but hotswap sockets are known to get loose after not too many swaps.
This also depends on the quality of the sockets used, type of switches used, how switches were pulled out, etc.
Loose sockets -> PCB float? -> inconsistent feel

I rather solder than deal with unpredictable element in the long run.

+1

I can definitely understand the sentiment against hotswap. We can confirm that non-hotswap version is 100% available

[stoic-lemon]

Interesting that for some people, hotswap is a premium feature. Never thought of it as so myself.

[cldskt]

Interesting that for some people, hotswap is a premium feature. Never thought of it as so myself.

Exactly. To me, soldering is part of the entire process to be enjoyed.
I can understand though why for those just entering to customs, hassle-free experience is preferred, hence the demand for hotswaps.

[Oni74]

Interesting that for some people, hotswap is a premium feature. Never thought of it as so myself.

Exactly. To me, soldering is part of the entire process to be enjoyed.
I can understand though why for those just entering to customs, hassle-free experience is preferred, hence the demand for hotswaps.

I'm on this boat. I'm just starting out, and while not afraid to learn soldering and enjoy the me-time in the man-cave as I will undoubtedly do when my doro67 ships, a demanding job, family, etc. ensures that i have very little free time for me-time. For people like me, hot-swap will enable experimentation and flexibility.

I can foresee a future where both hotswap and non-hotswap boards coexist in my life. If hotswap doesn't make it into Dolch.CR, i'm sure I'll find some other board that will meet the need. I do hope that enough interest is gathered so that both configs can be supported. Who doesn't love a win-win?

[Unforgivable]

Love the look of the board, but are both the normal and hotswap PCB’s using south led Facing switch slots?

[hayt]

Looking forward to a nice photoshoot of the prototype!

[pixelpusher]

Love the look of the board, but are both the normal and hotswap PCB’s using south led Facing switch slots?

hope so.  I guess we'll see soon enough

[comdata55]

definitely interested in seeing the prototype on this one!

[oldcat]

First prototype

[regionfree]

possible to make the brass logo at the top teal/light blue as well? to be consistent with the dolch branding.

[oldcat]

possible to make the brass logo at the top teal/light blue as well? to be consistent with the dolch branding.

I believe that is customizable details forthcoming

[pixelpusher]

I’ll have to see more photos to get a better opinion.  Right now, I don’t like the way the top looks. The groves should be thinner like on thr original Dolch pac board. 



Also, the badge feels really cramped up there.  I don’t have a solution for that.

[young_won]

i hope split space bar

[stoic-lemon]

Excellent point on the grooves. I agree, having them resemble the original would be better.

[oldcat]

First prototype (v1.0) is done! Cary is making optimizations and improvements for prototype V2.0 now!

Absolutely amazing! You can also 3D print or order PC translucent badges for light effects from LEDs  under the badge.

[dimo]

First prototype (v1.0) is done! Cary is making optimizations and improvements for prototype V2.0 now!

Absolutely amazing! You can also 3D print or order PC translucent badges for light effects from LEDs  under the badge.

(Attachment Link)

Looks great (:

Do you know specifically the improvements that are going to be made? If it includes thinning the cuts at the top to match the original case. And if the color will stay as a straight black

[pixelpusher]

I would love to see a matte black option.  Maybe the new eCoat process.

[oldcat]

I would love to see a matte black option.  Maybe the new eCoat process.

The black is indeed matte I believe. the new coating is not available for black unfortunately 

[lazyfart]

I know this is a bit late...but any possibility of making this alps compatible?

[dimo]

I’m afraid the case will feel “plasticy”, or if the weight will make up for it for the lightness. Any word on the build quality specifically? and if prototypes will be sent to members of the community?

[Jkush463]

i was hoping the front channels would be more exaggerated but it looks pretty nice, 

[oldcat]

i was hoping the front channels would be more exaggerated but it looks pretty nice,

Will ask Cary to take some more pictures, he said the channels are a bit deeper than they appear in the pictures.

[oldcat]

First prototype (v1.0) is done! Cary is making optimizations and improvements for prototype V2.0 now!

Absolutely amazing! You can also 3D print or order PC translucent badges for light effects from LEDs  under the badge.

(Attachment Link)

Looks great (:

Do you know specifically the improvements that are going to be made? If it includes thinning the cuts at the top to match the original case. And if the color will stay as a straight black

The second prototype is pearl white color. Will find out soon about the changes!
I think if the channels are too thin, will make it hard to clean.... I will check with Cary if that will be changed.

[dantambok]

How much does the kit weigh? 

[oldcat]

How much does the kit weigh? 

with PC weight ~1600g
with brass weight ~1800g

front end height is 18mm, 7 degree slope

[oldcat]

possible to make the brass logo at the top teal/light blue as well? to be consistent with the dolch branding.

Cary said he will make multiple versions available, and he will share the 3D model so you can 3D print your own if needed.

[oldcat]

Due to lack of significant interest in the hotswap PCB, this GB may not come with the hotswap option. Very affordable pre-soldering services will be provided, if needed.

I am still talking to Cary about this possibility of optional hotswap if the cost is manageable.

[Oni74]

Due to lack of significant interest in the hotswap PCB, this GB may not come with the hotswap option. Very affordable pre-soldering services will be provided, if needed.

I am still talking to Cary about this possibility of optional hotswap if the cost is manageable.

Thanks for following up on this. Looks like I'll have to re-join the Alt hi-pro GB on MD or consider experimenting with holtites. I nearly pulled the trigger on the Koyu then realized that it has split backspace. One of these days, a board that checks off all my requirements will show up.

[oldcat]

Due to lack of significant interest in the hotswap PCB, this GB may not come with the hotswap option. Very affordable pre-soldering services will be provided, if needed.

I am still talking to Cary about this possibility of optional hotswap if the cost is manageable.

Thanks for following up on this. Looks like I'll have to re-join the Alt hi-pro GB on MD or consider experimenting with holtites. I nearly pulled the trigger on the Koyu then realized that it has split backspace. One of these days, a board that checks off all my requirements will show up.

Thanks! Indeed. Personally I am fine with either Hotswap or not, but the opinions are pretty polarized.
Hope you find the ideal keyboard!

[Myoth]

I really like the look of this keyboard, is there a price estimation and a GB date yet ? I may have to sell some stuff if it's sooner than early next year D:

[oldcat]

I really like the look of this keyboard, is there a price estimation and a GB date yet ? I may have to sell some stuff if it's sooner than early next year D:

Hello, there is no final pricing. I checked with Cary, he said the kit with PC weight will be about $350. Extras such as the brass weight will cost a bit more.

[Darknight00z]

Split backspace support?

[oldcat]

Coming soon!

[oldcat]

Split backspace support?

Sorry this does not have split backspace

[oldcat]

Some more prorotypes:

[oh_chesteroni]

Some more prorotypes:

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

Are there any changes from the black to white prototype other than the color?
If so, what are the changes?

[oldcat]

GB coming soon.
5th prototype done.

[oldcat]

5 prototypes

[Oni74]

5 prototypes

(Attachment Link)

Looks great! Glad to see the progress through multiple iterations.


Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[dantambok]

does this have an integrated plate?

[oldcat]

Some fine details of the craftsmanship, pls zoom in the picture to view

[oldcat]

does this have an integrated plate?

Yes this will have 4mm integrated plate and thick bottom+ weight

[T0mb3ry]

I wish there was an option with separate plate. I need some flex

[oldcat]

I wish there was an option with separate plate. I need some flex

Maybe in the future if Cary wants to do more traditional designs. The thick integrated plate is super consistent in sound!

[leexy]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

[oldcat]

[Oni74]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[Audiobs]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

[oldcat]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Thanks!

I will receive the final prototype soon, and will provide some feedback on the feels for the 4mm plate with Holy Pandas.

[Audiobs]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Thanks!

I will receive the final prototype soon, and will provide some feedback on the feels for the 4mm plate with Holy Pandas.

You're the man as always! 

[iliketimex]

I have some suggestions based on the Alf DC60 which is a really good case. I am not sure I will buy this Dolch case because I have spent a lot on keyboard stuff this year, but here are some opinions anyway (please take all of my suggestions as constructive for improvement or discussion):

- If there are edges, a very small round/chamfer may be an improvement, especially on the top of the case or where you have 90 degree angles. If you drag a paper towel across the top of the case to clean it, it should probably not have edges or corners sharp enough to tear the paper towel. Some of the edges on the DC60 are practically knife-edge sharp, and you have to be careful handling it.

- A satin black anodizing may be an improvement over matte in terms of feel/comfort - a good example of anodizing can be found on the cheaper low profile and hipro cases from aliexpress - the anodizing creates a smooth surface that is pleasing to the touch. Examples of "smooth" anodizing can be found on the YMDK or Doyu studio cases. They are probably using satin and not full matte. I am not advocating for gloss, as gloss isn't preferred by me or anyone else, especially gloss black which is terrible.

- the badge in its current iteration isn't very readable - it might be improved by sandblasting the tooling marks off or revision of the badge - it doesn't seem to "go with" the design right now. It is not bad, but it could possibly be improved. One improvement could be to create the badge as a separate piece of different color anodized aluminum - for example a silver or dark gray anodize to go w/ the black case.

Edit (one more based on the DC60 GB):
- on my dc60 PCB, the usb mini connector was crushed. I soldered a new one on and now it works, but many people would not be able to do this. Please protect the connector part of the pcb more in shipping. It may get damaged if the weight of the case hits it.

[oldcat]

I have some suggestions based on the Alf DC60 which is a really good case. I am not sure I will buy this Dolch case because I have spent a lot on keyboard stuff this year, but here are some opinions anyway (please take all of my suggestions as constructive for improvement or discussion):

- If there are edges, a very small round/chamfer may be an improvement, especially on the top of the case or where you have 90 degree angles. If you drag a paper towel across the top of the case to clean it, it should probably not have edges or corners sharp enough to tear the paper towel. Some of the edges on the DC60 are practically knife-edge sharp, and you have to be careful handling it.

- A satin black anodizing may be an improvement over matte in terms of feel/comfort - a good example of anodizing can be found on the cheaper low profile and hipro cases from aliexpress - the anodizing creates a smooth surface that is pleasing to the touch. Examples of "smooth" anodizing can be found on the YMDK or Doyu studio cases. They are probably using satin and not full matte. I am not advocating for gloss, as gloss isn't preferred by me or anyone else, especially gloss black which is terrible.

- the badge in its current iteration isn't very readable - it might be improved by sandblasting the tooling marks off or revision of the badge - it doesn't seem to "go with" the design right now. It is not bad, but it could possibly be improved. One improvement could be to create the badge as a separate piece of different color anodized aluminum - for example a silver or dark gray anodize to go w/ the black case.

Edit (one more based on the DC60 GB):
- on my dc60 PCB, the usb mini connector was crushed. I soldered a new one on and now it works, but many people would not be able to do this. Please protect the connector part of the pcb more in shipping. It may get damaged if the weight of the case hits it.

Thanks for the feedback!

The DC60 is a lower end ALF line and DolchCR is top line I’m sure the quality will be much higher

I will update and compare with DC60 and some other top keyboards next week

[Oni74]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

[oldcat]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

Soldered Holy Panda (or Gsus) + Dolch.CR = problem solved

[Oni74]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

Soldered Holy Panda (or Gsus) + Dolch.CR = problem solved

How does this, as pleasant as it will likely be, solve the requirement of South facing hot swap? =P

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[oldcat]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

Soldered Holy Panda (or Gsus) + Dolch.CR = problem solved

How does this, as pleasant as it will likely be, solve the requirement of South facing hot swap? =P

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

Doesn't, but you get a perfect board of DCR with HP haha

[oldcat]

Update: with many people contacting me making a case for an optional hotswap pcb, Cary is reconsidering making hotswap an upgrade option for users who are interested.

[oldcat]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

I talked to Cary to make a strong case for those who are interested in hotswap, and he listened and agreed to provide an optional hotswap PCB

[Jaxxstatic]

Dagnabit! I gotta figure out how to block any threads with oldcat in them. Every comment is making me realize how much I'm going to spend in 2019.

[futurecrime]

You know, I think I might get one of these. If it really is gonna be <$400 I reckon I'm sold.

[ihalatch]

IMO that badge needs more work.

[oldcat]

IMO that badge needs more work.

Yeah, it is gold-plated already but you can still see some minor machine cuts, plus it gets fingerprints easily. The base kit will come with an Aluminum Badge which should not have this issue. And final production version Gold-plated Brass Badge will also be improved - Cary already found solutions to make better-looking ones. And 3D design file for the badge will be released so users can 3D print PC or acrylic ones

[Oni74]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

I talked to Cary to make a strong case for those who are interested in hotswap, and he listened and agreed to provide an optional hotswap PCB

This is a pleasant surprise. Will we get additional info on the hot swap PCB? Features I'm interested in are:
- South-facing hot swap
- smd led
- usb-c
- standard layout


Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

[oldcat]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

I talked to Cary to make a strong case for those who are interested in hotswap, and he listened and agreed to provide an optional hotswap PCB

This is a pleasant surprise. Will we get additional info on the hot swap PCB? Features I'm interested in are:
- South-facing hot swap
- smd led
- usb-c
- standard layout


Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

Can confirm south-facing, usb-c, standard layout (with either WK or WKL)
Cary is checking SMD LED.
GB post pending approval

[oldcat]

is hot swap still possible with an integrated plate?

Hot swap was shot down earlier in the thread.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

This is really too bad. I asked for it during Doro67's GB too. Somehow the hardcores need soldering to feel complete I guess. The 4mm integrated plate is going to dictate the feel anyway, soldered or hotswap. But it's a huge pain to try different switches, or even to swap springs...

Can we at least have some info on compatibility on hottie/millmax sockets?

I am buying it anyway of course.

Yeah, same sentiments here. I really would like a 65% or a 75% (preferred) end-game board with south facing hot swap. I understand that integrated plate + hot swap is really hard to do, so I would gladly trade integrated plate for hot swap. Koyu came close, but the split back space killed it for me. I was thinking about holtite/millmax, but I also read that they are difficult to install and reliability is a crap shoot, so I gave up on it. It looks like KBD 67 v2 has everything i'm looking for, but at the low-end of end-game. Might still get it though. Maybe I'll treat myself in January.

I talked to Cary to make a strong case for those who are interested in hotswap, and he listened and agreed to provide an optional hotswap PCB

This is a pleasant surprise. Will we get additional info on the hot swap PCB? Features I'm interested in are:
- South-facing hot swap
- smd led
- usb-c
- standard layout


Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using Tapatalk

Here are the Layout Options:

Regular PCB (compatible):


Hotswap PCB (choose either WK or WKL shown below):

[Signature]

Locked

GB is live at: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=98727.0