geekhack

geekhack Community => Reviews => Topic started by: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:00:15

Title: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:00:15

This is my first review of anything, pardon me if I'm going it wrong.

On the first note, my pictures are ****ty -_-


Keyboard with Specs:

356mini(black)
Winkeyless layout
62g Vinage black. Lubed and Stickered.

356mini with dyesub Sanctuary set
(http://i.imgur.com/TqgEYQZ.jpg)

356mini with Cherry dyesub set
(http://i.imgur.com/kdXwT9P.jpg)


Switches:
(http://i.imgur.com/uIqPCBu.jpg)

PCB
(http://i.imgur.com/xRjHxUI.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/1aUbsAQ.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/H0TuPb2.jpg)

Top Half
(http://i.imgur.com/VAIszTN.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/nELKmCA.jpg)

Bottom Half
(http://i.imgur.com/OW8LAB7.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZI4UMxp.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/YwxSFoK.jpg)


keyboard Info:

This is a limited run of keyboards form OTD(On the Desk) as the 356 series. There were 2 runs, the original run was produced in black and the second run was in red. From what I understand is version(black) is the most sought after 356mini. 356mini features the brass weight which adds a very nice feel, look, and weight to this keyboard.

Something unique with the 356mini is the slow pulsing and brass insert. This keyboard uses a detachable USB to PS/2 cable.



Pros:

The build quality on these keyboards are just awesome and the attention to detail is epic.
Poker Size(60%)
Function Layer
1.5 mods, stepped caplock, and 7x spacebar
Programmable

Cons:

Can't turn off the led on the ESC key( some might like this but I would like to turn it off while my computer is off)
Modified plate for stem and spring swapping. I sometimes like to switch up springs just to test out different switches combos.
Not easy to program(from what I've seen and heard if you're not korean -_-)

All in all:

Highly recommend this keyboard to anyone that likes the 60% keyboards and to the collectors. :)




Other note:
Will be doing my 456GT Review soon.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Gupgup on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:15:28

How is it so rare? Who made them?

It looks beautiful by the way.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: okooko on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:16:06

Oh the brass weight is underneath, thats neat.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:16:49

Produced in limited quantities from OTD, plus they are part of the coveted 356 line of Legendary Kustoms.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Gupgup on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:18:01

Quote from: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:16:49

Produced in limited quantities from OTD, plus they are part of the coveted 356 line of Legendary Kustoms.

Ahh I see, well man am I jealous.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: okooko on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:19:35

Quote from: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:16:49

Produced in limited quantities from OTD, plus they are part of the coveted 356 line of Legendary Kustoms.

SF, time for an OTD wiki.

I think there was a link to one but it wasn't in any language understandable to me lol

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Caaaarrrt on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:20:21

One of my favourite boards ever, the attention to detail in the entire design is outstanding in my opinion.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:21:59

Good lawd the beauty!!!

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: ekw808 on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:23:05

Wheres the rubberband?

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: guilleguillaume on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:25:25

I don't understand why some of the Limited Edition keyboards from OTD are been sold to foreigners.

I was said there was a rule that saying that if you ever sell one of those keyboards you get automatically banned from future GB and became a paria since getting this was restricted to OTD members.

I'm happy for you been able to get one.

Title: Re: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:32:53

Quote from: okooko on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:19:35

Quote from: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:16:49

Produced in limited quantities from OTD, plus they are part of the coveted 356 line of Legendary Kustoms.

SF, time for an OTD wiki.

I think there was a link to one but it wasn't in any language understandable to me lol

Its not SF, if you may. The OTD wiki (from their site) is where I learn all of my info. Dig and abuse Google translate.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: guilleguillaume on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:37:02

Quote from: okooko on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:19:35

Quote from: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:16:49

Produced in limited quantities from OTD, plus they are part of the coveted 356 line of Legendary Kustoms.

SF, time for an OTD wiki.

I think there was a link to one but it wasn't in any language understandable to me lol

Just take a look at Sixty's thread on Deskthority: The Korean Custom Keyboards #1: 356 Series (http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/the-korean-custom-keyboards-1-356-series-t255.html)

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: SmallFry on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:39:08

Ah, yes that too. In other news, I hope Sixty is doing alright.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:57:51

Love it, thanks for the review!

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:58:59

Quote from: guilleguillaume on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:25:25

I don't understand why some of the Limited Edition keyboards from OTD are been sold to foreigners.

I was said there was a rule that saying that if you ever sell one of those keyboards you get automatically banned from future GB and became a paria since getting this was restricted to OTD members.

I'm happy for you been able to get one.

If this is true then that is just silly..WIth that being said, My review of the 456GT coming soon..

Thanks

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:04:11

OTD says "non profit keyboard community" right on top.  I don't know if they are actually xenophobic, but they do seem to detest selling OTD boards for profit.  Just like the guys at DT will flip their **** when someone tries to sell a Clack.  Of course, people can't get upset about something they don't know about :)

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: sth on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:09:41

Quote from: metalliqaz on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:04:11

Of course, people can't get upset about something they don't know about :)

interesting way of putting it, because most of us on GH know nothing about being part of a non-profit keyboard community :/

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: jcrouse on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:19:19

Quote from: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:58:59

If this is true then that is just silly..WIth that being said, My review of the 456GT coming soon..

Thanks

Absolutely true. Also, can't wait for the review. Wish I had a 456GT and a 356 Mini :)

John

Title: Re: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:33:06

Quote from: jcrouse on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:19:19

Quote from: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:58:59

If this is true then that is just silly..WIth that being said, My review of the 456GT coming soon..

Thanks

Absolutely true. Also, can't wait for the review. Wish I had a 456GT and a 356 Mini :)

John

Shouldn't be afraid to post pics of yours...:))

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: FabsSpeed on Tue, 19 February 2013, 00:00:35

Boost!

Very very nice keyboard!!!

Fabs

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: leesofi on Tue, 19 February 2013, 03:27:22

Quote from: guilleguillaume on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:25:25

I don't understand why some of the Limited Edition keyboards from OTD are been sold to foreigners.

I was said there was a rule that saying that if you ever sell one of those keyboards you get automatically banned from future GB and became a paria since getting this was restricted to OTD members.

I'm happy for you been able to get one.

i think you have wrong information.
OTD dont allow profit with OTDs products. its otd`s rule.
Redline used a.87 pcb(aikon) is made in OTD with profits and got banned on OTD (boost also).
So redline will use their new pcb.

boost`s red 356mini is one of 80 sets dropped when leftover sale.
leftover had only red.
its lower anodizing quality than first 356mini. nothing different without it.

anyway, good review.

Title: Re: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Tue, 19 February 2013, 05:38:43

Quote from: leesofi on Tue, 19 February 2013, 03:27:22

Quote from: guilleguillaume on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:25:25

I don't understand why some of the Limited Edition keyboards from OTD are been sold to foreigners.

I was said there was a rule that saying that if you ever sell one of those keyboards you get automatically banned from future GB and became a paria since getting this was restricted to OTD members.

I'm happy for you been able to get one.

i think you have wrong information.
OTD dont allow profit with OTDs products. its otd`s rule.
Redline used a.87 pcb(aikon) is made in OTD with profits and got banned on OTD (boost also).
So redline will use their new pcb.

boost`s red 356mini is one of 80 sets dropped when leftover sale.
leftover had only red.
its lower anodizing quality than first 356mini. nothing different without it.

anyway, good review.

Mine is black :D

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: kboardvintage on Tue, 19 February 2013, 07:05:38

that looks amazing. gotta have to trade few things with koreans soon

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: leesofi on Tue, 19 February 2013, 10:08:06

oh my eyes.
i saw only redline in head. :-X

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: calavera on Tue, 19 February 2013, 10:18:49

Do you have someone proxy these keyboards from Korea? I ask because unless you take part in their group buys it's almost impossible to buy one. Even if they come out on the market, they're instantly snatched up so even if I was first in line the buyer is reluctant to ship it overseas.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: zenuty on Mon, 04 March 2013, 23:48:47

Wow

i saw and meet 356mini

Korean OTD custom key board verry Rare...
foud hard...

im Korean, but give up... 356 Series...
Verry Verry Verry Verry Rare..... T_T

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:11:46

Quote from: zenuty on Mon, 04 March 2013, 23:48:47

Wow

i saw and meet 356mini

Korean OTD custom key board verry Rare...
foud hard...

im Korean, but give up... 356 Series...
Verry Verry Verry Verry Rare..... T_T

Wow. This makes me sad. I really want a 356mini, but if they're this rare...

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:15:56

There's always a new hotness.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:26:00

But that doesn't diminish the hotness of what was previously hot.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: zenuty on Tue, 05 March 2013, 20:59:21

I hate Rare !!!!!!!!!

But OTD Custom Keyboard All Rare

It is ture !!

All many Korean KBD & OTD User is need buy for OTD Cutom Keyboard
But Many User give up....

Recently im try best do it find out 356 Series, 456GT
but its verry hard work.
my life is going destroyed...

im many times rotate give up , looking for lol

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Michael on Tue, 05 March 2013, 21:11:39

Nice review, sir.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Mon, 11 March 2013, 14:17:45

Thanks fellas.

Now if I can only find my allen keys to open up this 456gt -_-

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: dirge on Mon, 11 March 2013, 14:55:24

Quote from: metalliqaz on Mon, 18 February 2013, 23:04:11

OTD says "non profit keyboard community" right on top.  I don't know if they are actually xenophobic, but they do seem to detest selling OTD boards for profit.  Just like the guys at DT will flip their **** when someone tries to sell a Clack.  Of course, people can't get upset about something they don't know about :)

I think non profit should apply here too unless they donate to the site.  DT don't flip their **** over clacks you just won't get many buying them at stupid prices.  You will get a little more free speech when someone is trying to over charge however.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 11 March 2013, 16:08:53

You say tom-AY-to, I say tom-AH-to.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: esoomenona on Mon, 11 March 2013, 16:10:23

Quote from: metalliqaz on Mon, 11 March 2013, 16:08:53

You tom-ay-to, I say tom-ah-to.

If I'm tom-ay-to, I'd prefer you pronounce my name properly please.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: tricheboars on Tue, 12 March 2013, 15:24:54

when i go to korea next year i plan on picking up anything i can find. apparently there are stores in seoul which sell kustoms. KMACs and LZs i believe, not 356mini goodness.

damn i really want the 356mini, or at least some of the sweet dolch or round 3 retro like keycaps that come out of korea.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 12 March 2013, 15:31:54

IIRC, Round 3 could've been obtained right here at geekhack. Round 4 was being held over at deskthority. Dolch can be found on ebay. These things aren't Korean exclusive. The keyboards are, however.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Dubsgalore on Tue, 12 March 2013, 16:59:25

Quote from: boost on Mon, 18 February 2013, 22:00:15

This is my first review of anything, pardon me if I'm going it wrong.

On the first note, my pictures are ****ty -_-


Keyboard with Specs:

356mini(black)
Winkeyless layout
62g Vinage black. Lubed and Stickered.

356mini with dyesub Sanctuary set

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/TqgEYQZ.jpg)

356mini with Cherry dyesub set

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/kdXwT9P.jpg)

Switches:

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/uIqPCBu.jpg)

PCB

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/xRjHxUI.jpg)

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/1aUbsAQ.jpg)

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/H0TuPb2.jpg)

Top Half

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/VAIszTN.jpg)

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/nELKmCA.jpg)

Bottom Half

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/OW8LAB7.jpg)

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/ZI4UMxp.jpg)

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/YwxSFoK.jpg)

keyboard Info:

This is a limited run of keyboards form OTD(On the Desk) as the 356 series. There were 2 runs, the original run was produced in black and the second run was in red. From what I understand is version(black) is the most sought after 356mini. 356mini features the brass weight which adds a very nice feel, look, and weight to this keyboard.

Something unique with the 356mini is the slow pulsing and brass insert. This keyboard uses a detachable USB to PS/2 cable.



Pros:

The build quality on these keyboards are just awesome and the attention to detail is epic.
Poker Size(60%)
Function Layer
1.5 mods, stepped caplock, and 7x spacebar
Programmable

Cons:

Can't turn off the led on the ESC key( some might like this but I would like to turn it off while my computer is off)
Modified plate for stem and spring swapping. I sometimes like to switch up springs just to test out different switches combos.
Not easy to program(from what I've seen and heard if you're not korean -_-)

All in all:

Highly recommend this keyboard to anyone that likes the 60% keyboards and to the collectors. :)




Other note:
Will be doing my 456GT Review soon.

how did you acquire the board?

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:00:07

Quoting the entire review, nice  :cool:

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Dubsgalore on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:03:41

Quote from: metalliqaz on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:00:07

Quoting the entire review, nice  :cool:

i know im sorry :o didn't realize until now. i look so bad...

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:17:22

Made quite a few friends in korea and they hooked me up. :D

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: Dubsgalore on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:29:25

Quote from: boost on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:17:22

Made quite a few friends in korea and they hooked me up. :D

good for you it looks great

Title: Re: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: jcrouse on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:37:11

Quote from: boost on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:17:22

Made quite a few friends in korea and they hooked me up. :D

At OTD?


Just kidding,
John

Title: Re: Re: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: boost on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:58:22

Quote from: jcrouse on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:37:11

Quote from: boost on Tue, 12 March 2013, 17:17:22

Made quite a few friends in korea and they hooked me up. :D

At OTD?


Just kidding,
John

Ohhh, taking jabs at me :p

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: jcrouse on Wed, 13 March 2013, 08:11:56

Well, with reaper on hiatus and tsangan being pretty quite I guess yoy will just have to carry their load of abuse also.

John

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: deazncy on Fri, 22 March 2013, 01:14:05

That's a really good looking board! Nice collectors, way too much for a regular purchase, though.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: metal369 on Fri, 05 June 2015, 20:19:45

Best mini keyboard ever. :)

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 21 June 2015, 01:54:26

Quote from: metal369 on Fri, 05 June 2015, 20:19:45

Best mini keyboard ever. :)

:))

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: pr0ximity on Sun, 21 June 2015, 07:19:57

Interesting, just realized that boost's board looks like it's missing the elastic that wraps around between the assembled plate+pcb. You can kind of see it below the spacebar in this pic, its like a large red grommet, not really elastic:

(http://i.imgur.com/X1jzBIg.jpg)

I assume it's designed to reduce vibration between the pcb, plate, and case.

EDIT: close-up, you can see how tightly it makes contact around the screws:

(http://i.imgur.com/Whg36AI.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/AO49WAM.jpg)

The plate has a very cool design on its front edge, really fascisnating boards.

Title: Re: 356mini Review
Post by: sethk_ on Sun, 21 June 2015, 11:01:07

Quote from: pr0ximity on Sun, 21 June 2015, 07:19:57

Interesting, just realized that boost's board looks like it's missing the elastic that wraps around between the assembled plate+pcb. You can kind of see it below the spacebar in this pic, its like a large red grommet, not really elastic:

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/X1jzBIg.jpg)

I assume it's designed to reduce vibration between the pcb, plate, and case.

EDIT: close-up, you can see how tightly it makes contact around the screws:

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/Whg36AI.jpg)

Show Image

(http://i.imgur.com/AO49WAM.jpg)

The plate has a very cool design on its front edge, really fascisnating boards.

I think they were a separate GB item but a lot of people bought them, or I am entirely wrong