Post by: Jersern on Mon, 08 December 2014, 14:41:44
(http://i.imgur.com/NpiAKLF.jpg)
I have a rubber band modded HHKB with blank keycaps and I feel like it is far too hard to try Topre keyboards in Australia. To try alleviate that problem, I am offering my HHKB up for a small tour of Australia! Let it see the nation! :D
Note: If I have time, I will remove the rubber band mod on the ESC key so you can have a comparison with a "normal" Topre keyboard.
I will include a get started pack to make it easier to use.
Simple Rules
If you wish to participate, you must follow and agree to these rules!
- As stated above you must be a permanent resident or citizen of Australia. This is to make following up on people easier.
- You must be willing to supply a residential address, name, email, valid mobile number and something else we can use to identify you if anything goes wrong (photo of your drivers licence).
- You must be willing to ship the keyboard to the next person using an express postage service with tracking (i.e. couriers or AusPost Express). You will have to provide the tracking number to me as well as whoever you are posting the board to next along with the website of the courier company.
- You must only hang onto the board for a max of 7 days and if you cannot ship it to the next person within the 7 days, you must get in contact with them and me and arrange an extension of a maximum of 3 days.
- You must not kill or damage my keyboard! (you'll have to cough up a brand new keyboard if you do...........) If you do accidentally damage my keyboard, you must report to me the damage and you'll have to pay a hefty compensation fee depending on the damage. If it's something very minor, still tell me and we can go from there.
- Don't open up my keyboard or tamper with it or lose screws or anything along those lines please! This should go without saying but I am putting this out there just in case as suggested by Steve.V I will tamper evidence seal my keyboard just to make sure.
As stated above, please don't damage or break my keyboard. It will be painful for both myself and you! :(
There will be a cut off for how many people can participate. At this stage I am thinking of about 10 or 15 people at most. If this round 1 works out without any problems, I can try arrange a round 2. There is also a min number of people for this to happen. Currently I am thinking we need at least 3-5 people. Also, there is a cut off date. You must apply before 31/12/2014.
You will also have to send a photo of your drivers license or government issued identification (i.e. passport if you don't have a drivers license) once you are confirmed by me. This is mainly as a security layer to prevent theft and for the sake of liability of any damages.
Everyone may have to pitch in something between 1-4 dollars depending on how many people apply to cover the cost of me shipping this keyboard out to the first person! If the first person however lives very close to me (Lower North Shore, Sydney), this payment can be mitigated.
Application form
To apply please complete this form. Completing this form means you agree with the rules laid out above.
http://goo.gl/forms/foLgusCO0Q (http://goo.gl/forms/foLgusCO0Q)
Once you submitted your form, I will get intouch with you shortly.
People Participating
This is a list of people who has confirmed their address with me after applying to be part of this tour!
- Moralles(@Geekhack)
- Akaisdhh(@Reddit)
- Cephelix(@Geekhack)
Post by: mr626 on Mon, 08 December 2014, 16:04:08
Also, not sure what you mean by 'rubber-band mod' ? If I was someone interested in trying a HHKB before buying, I'd probably prefer to try an unmodified one (to be a true representation of what I would get if I personally purchased one).
I'm sure others will take you up on your generous offer though :-) Very thoughtful.
Post by: feizor on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:11:17
Post by: Jersern on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:23:34
I'm slightly tempted by this, but blank keycaps puts me off. Since the layout is different to what I'm used to, I feel like I'd need marked keycaps to be able to get used to things.
Also, not sure what you mean by 'rubber-band mod' ? If I was someone interested in trying a HHKB before buying, I'd probably prefer to try an unmodified one (to be a true representation of what I would get if I personally purchased one).
I'm sure others will take you up on your generous offer though :-) Very thoughtful.
I personally like the blank keycaps and I am not going to buy a 70 dollar leycap set for this :p to be honest, at first the blanks put me off, but it has helped improve my touchtyping by forcing me to know where keys are. I am including a diagram of the keys with the keyboard to make it easier to use so even if you can't abandon your marked keycaps, you can still give it a go!
The rubber (dental) band mod makes the keyboard more quiet (imagine orings) so my keyboard is basically the same as the HHKB-S. I didn't mod this keyboard, I bought it as is from someone else. I am going to remove the rubber band mod on the ESC key so one could have a comparison.
Other than that, there's no way in going to remove it from the whole keyboard as the process is rather time consuming.
Good thing you're doing mate!Thanks! :) I felt us Aussies got way too left out in the world of mech KBs.
Post by: cephelix on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:30:48
Post by: Jersern on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:33:56
Very nice of you to do such a thing...if only i qualified i wouldnt mind being the first person to take the keyboard from you when i go over.hope things turn out well.
I guess you can qualify :p I'll make an exception. As long as you follow the rules, and mail it out to the next person, it will work out fine and if you pick up, we won't have to do the initial dollar or two! :)
Why don't you submit a form and we can discuss via email any details that need to be worked out.
Important Note
I will be on holidays from the 26th of December till the 5th of January so I will be unreachable during that 11 day period.
Post by: cephelix on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:43:51
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:47:16
Post by: Jersern on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:50:13
I'm not an AUS resident, but GL with your tour! Tours are the best way to learn about new switches/keyboards.
Very true! Thanks! :)
Post by: mr626 on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:55:23
Obviously I don't expect you to buy a set of marked keycaps etc just to make people like me happy ;)
Post by: Jersern on Mon, 08 December 2014, 23:54:16
Just to clarify, I too think its a great thing that you are doing. Just wanted to mention my reasons for opting-out :-)
Obviously I don't expect you to buy a set of marked keycaps etc just to make people like me happy ;)
Someone offered to trade my blanks for printed caps! :P Unfortunately I personally prefer blanks and shipping from here to the US is too much to be worth it.
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:00:26
2 People have been confirmed to be participating with address confirmed with me! :D
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:19:29
Time for a double post! :D
2 People have been confirmed to be participating with address confirmed with me! :D
WOOHOO!seems like it's off to a good start....
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:25:39
WOOHOO!seems like it's off to a good start....
Certainly a great start! :)
Post by: mr626 on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:45:09
Post by: Quackles on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:58:55
Nice work Jersern, it's very good of you to do this. I think the HHKB in particular isn't that common in Aus (do any local shops even stock it?)
Don't think any local shops have it. Have to buy from US or through Amazon Japan via Tenso like I did.
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 01:18:50
do any local shops even stock it?
Nope! The best place to buy it is from Japanese stores right now as the Yen is weak against the AUD. I got mine used (but in pristine basically unused condition) from someone. If you want a Realforce or Leopold Topre board, you can go to mechkb.com. I have been to their physical store and talked to the guys there. They seem very nice and the customer service I got when I made some enquiries was very good. (They are out of stock on the Leopold F600C at the moment and they don't have an ETA on when it will be back in stock and they don't carry HHKBs.)
Good luck with this Jersern! I got my new one recently. I'll show you later and you can give it a go without the bands too.
An excellent choice! :) Can't go wrong with a HHKB. I will be so kind as to crack my HHKB open and remove the rubber band mod from the ESC key so everyone who tries it can have an idea of the effects of the silencing. :) Personally I like the silencing as it mutes the pop but still retains the feel. It's not like o-rings where they just destroy the keyboard (well that's in my opinion anyway).
What colour is your keyboard? I personally like the black but the white keyboard goes nicer with my white desk though I was thinking of painting my HHKB case and dyeing the keycaps after it returns to me to give it a truly one of a kind look.
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 01:36:18
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 01:43:24
Oh and I got myself a profile image! :O Such a shame the resolution was nerfed to oblivion :(
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 02:12:50
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 02:37:54
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 02:52:04
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 02:56:02
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 03:37:04
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 14:17:16
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 09 December 2014, 15:35:51
Although I already have and enjoy using an HHKB (albeit not silenced).
If this gets off the ground (seems likely) then once the first tour is finished, the word will get around and people will start asking when the next one is.
And it will probably just grow from there1
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 15:48:29
An excellent idea - about time we had a keyboard tour down here.And Jersern will have all his boards on tour all over australia! ;D
Although I already have and enjoy using an HHKB (albeit not silenced).
If this gets off the ground (seems likely) then once the first tour is finished, the word will get around and people will start asking when the next one is.
And it will probably just grow from there1
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 09 December 2014, 15:51:30
An excellent idea - about time we had a keyboard tour down here.And Jersern will have all his boards on tour all over australia! ;D
Although I already have and enjoy using an HHKB (albeit not silenced).
If this gets off the ground (seems likely) then once the first tour is finished, the word will get around and people will start asking when the next one is.
And it will probably just grow from there1
One at a time! :eek:
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 09 December 2014, 15:55:09
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 09 December 2014, 17:47:54
None the less I'd still like to use my HHKB here and there :p
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 10 December 2014, 01:01:53
Post by: steve.v on Wed, 10 December 2014, 03:24:10
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 10 December 2014, 03:54:51
Edit: Added to T&C of this tour! (Thanks for the suggestion. I kinda brushed it off since I thought this would be super obvious.)
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 10 December 2014, 04:08:04
Currently I have:
- Diagram of keyboard's function layer and key layouts
- The original documentation so if you want to have a read, go ahead (warning, it's in Jap)
- A welcome letter of sorts from me with some rules, instructions and other bits and pieces
Is there any glaringly obvious thing I should include that I have forgotten to?
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 10 December 2014, 19:15:55
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 10 December 2014, 22:42:03
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 10 December 2014, 23:11:13
It's on the back of the keyboard. :)
It is? I haven't looked for so long I must have forgotten :))
Post by: Jersern on Fri, 12 December 2014, 00:11:41
Post by: Jersern on Fri, 12 December 2014, 22:08:01
Post by: Ngt on Fri, 12 December 2014, 22:31:37
When I'll have something interesting to tour, I'll try to do one in Europe!
Post by: Jersern on Sat, 13 December 2014, 00:29:04
Post by: cephelix on Sat, 13 December 2014, 02:18:35
Post by: Geroximo on Sat, 13 December 2014, 10:06:46
That's nice of you to do such a tour, even though I won't be able to take part in it.Do it :thumb:
When I'll have something interesting to tour, I'll try to do one in Europe!
Post by: ideus on Sat, 13 December 2014, 10:43:32
Post by: Ngt on Sat, 13 December 2014, 13:05:36
This is so cool.I don't have anything special for now, only 60% w/ MX Blues and Full w/ MX Brown. Most people won't be interested in trying that. Especially when you target active members.That's nice of you to do such a tour, even though I won't be able to take part in it.Do it :thumb:
When I'll have something interesting to tour, I'll try to do one in Europe!
Post by: Jersern on Sat, 13 December 2014, 16:24:48
This is a great opportunity for the Australians friends to try this niche keyboard. Kudos for the OP.
Thanks! :) It's way too expensive to get one here and I haven't seen anywhere stock these here so you have to buy these blind :(
That's nice of you to do such a tour, even though I won't be able to take part in it.
When I'll have something interesting to tour, I'll try to do one in Europe!
You should run one once you get something cool :thumb: interesting to see how many people haven't tried a 60%...
Post by: Jersern on Sat, 13 December 2014, 16:30:04
Post by: Ngt on Sat, 13 December 2014, 16:32:34
Yeah that could be something to try. I'm going to buy a Novatouch soon so if I like Topre I'll get an HHKB or a Leopold. If I do so I might tour my Poker II. I'll have to make an interest check to see if people would be interested for it.This is a great opportunity for the Australians friends to try this niche keyboard. Kudos for the OP.
Thanks! :) It's way too expensive to get one here and I haven't seen anywhere stock these here so you have to buy these blind :(That's nice of you to do such a tour, even though I won't be able to take part in it.
When I'll have something interesting to tour, I'll try to do one in Europe!
You should run one once you get something cool :thumb: interesting to see how many people haven't tried a 60%...
Post by: Jersern on Sat, 13 December 2014, 16:57:14
Post by: Jersern on Mon, 22 December 2014, 20:22:25
Post by: cephelix on Mon, 22 December 2014, 21:54:19
oh, and before i forget, merry chrismas,and a happy new year to you all.....especially to you Jersern
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 23 December 2014, 00:01:13
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 23 December 2014, 00:31:42
yeah....what was i thinking.... ONLY 300..that's mere pennies per day over the life span of the board
Post by: Moralless on Tue, 23 December 2014, 08:16:33
It's currently 1am for me and I've just got back from doing some late night Christmas shopping :confused:. At first I thought the complete blank keyboard would pose as a problem to me at first but I underestimated at actually how little I look down while typing (I've yet to type any passwords though). I'm currently typing this on the HHKB and I've got to say my first impressions on Topre are pretty great. I've realized that the many attempts to describe what topre feels like don't come close to the real experience which makes me appreciate these tours even more as these are great for people that are on the fence about these and can't justify the $200+ price mark of these boards to just 'try out'. I'll try and write about my thoughts on topre as I use them more just thought I'd update Jersern that his board has arrived safe and sound at my home :thumb:/
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 23 December 2014, 13:41:37
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 23 December 2014, 14:51:08
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 23 December 2014, 16:24:56
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 23 December 2014, 17:45:38
Hopefully everything works out... :))
None the less I will be making final preps for my trip today and tomorrow so this might be the last post in a while! If it is, see you guys in 2 week! :P And as soon as I come back, my out of school commitments begins again.................................. :mad: *sigh*
Have a happy and safe holiday everyone!
Edit: Oh and if this works out, I could tour some other things. Possibly an ergo clear Phantom... If I can get a BLOODY PLATE!!!!!!!! :mad: Those things are like unicorns! I've managed to miss out on every single one. 3 months it has sat in my drawer :'( Maybe a second HHKB tour......
Well if any of you guys happen to be in Sydney, you can drop by my place and try out my board like Cephelix did :thumb:
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 23 December 2014, 19:38:49
really envious of your collection....you should put them in a display cabinet....enjoy your trip man....
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 23 December 2014, 22:08:12
yeah!thanks for that....
really envious of your collection....you should put them in a display cabinet....enjoy your trip man....
My keyboards normally sit on top of the "shelf" on top of my desk so it is on display :P
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 23 December 2014, 23:24:39
Post by: Moralless on Tue, 23 December 2014, 23:28:08
but it's supposed to be in a humidity and temperature controlled glass case with a laser alarm thingy and requires a retina scan and voice confirmation to unarm..... :D
Don't worry, it is :p
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 23 December 2014, 23:44:12
but it's supposed to be in a humidity and temperature controlled glass case with a laser alarm thingy and requires a retina scan and voice confirmation to unarm..... :D
Don't worry, it is :p
ahaha.....it's so safe even the owner can't unlock the case....
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 23 December 2014, 23:55:33
If only my Model M was up and running and not sitting in pieces awaiting parts... :'( Luckily my replacement bits are going to arrive by the time I get back. Perfect timing really! And a new pair of headphones too! :D
Oh and I will bring my laptop with me but if there's no WiFi or LAN :'( well I can live after all I survived 6 months with no internet in the mountains! :D
Post by: cephelix on Tue, 23 December 2014, 23:59:21
In the mean time I will type away on my Ducky Shine 3............... such an inferior typing experience... oh and mess about on the mouse CM sent my way for free :D Also need to work out some sort of customisation for it......... :Ddont say that about the ducky....i'm planning to get the DS3 tkl when i get back.....and only if the filco is more expensive.....
If only my Model M was up and running and not sitting in pieces awaiting parts... :'( Luckily my replacement bits are going to arrive by the time I get back. Perfect timing really! And a new pair of headphones too! :D
Oh and I will bring my laptop with me but if there's no WiFi or LAN :'( well I can live after all I survived 6 months with no internet in the mountains! :D
what were you doing in the mountains for 6 months?
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:12:39
Well in the mountains and rural areas I was hiking and visiting ultra rural areas, meeting interesting people and families, staying with some of them etc. A truly worthwhile experience to spend some time away from modern comforts and live a very simple lifestyle for a change! Meeting the different people was really eye opening to think that in the 21st century they still do not have electricity, they do not have easy access to water they basically don't have anything we do really aside from plenty of happiness ;) (cheesy I know... :D) Drinking water straight from a cave is really nice! The water actually tastes delicious! ^-^
Basically, I recommend staying out of cities for some time and enjoy the country side! :thumb:
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:20:05
that is cool.....never been to areas that rural, and definitely not for that span of time......i should try that one day.....now if only my job gives sabbaticals....
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:22:50
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:30:29
Well it controls the keyboard sooo................... :)) The custom one let's you do custom keymapping so custom function layer and custom layout.
cool..will check it out.thanks for the info..
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:35:23
Post by: Jersern on Sun, 28 December 2014, 08:18:34
Post by: Moralless on Sun, 28 December 2014, 08:25:09
I hope everyone is well and enjoying their holidays! :) I am alive!!!! :p Unfortunately the great firewall blocked all Google services. How frustrating! :mad: Hope everything is well with my HHKB.
Your HHKB looks the same as the day I picked it up! ;D
Loving the feel of it at the moment and really want to compare your HHKB to a non dental banded one (one switch just isn't enough for me :p) so at the moment I'm figuring out the cheapest way I could get a HHKB. And it's all because of you :'(
Now go enjoy your time in China
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 28 December 2014, 18:46:31
I hope everyone is well and enjoying their holidays! :) I am alive!!!! :p Unfortunately the great firewall blocked all Google services. How frustrating! :mad: Hope everything is well with my HHKB.
Your HHKB looks the same as the day I picked it up! ;D
Loving the feel of it at the moment and really want to compare your HHKB to a non dental banded one (one switch just isn't enough for me :p) so at the moment I'm figuring out the cheapest way I could get a HHKB. And it's all because of you :'(
Now go enjoy your time in China
Secret HHKB advocates unite!
I found mine on eBay, from Qld. Keep looking - they do turn up from time to time.
Post by: Jersern on Tue, 20 January 2015, 02:38:24
The tour has concluded and my HHKB has survived (hopefully). Still haven't plugged it in................................................. Thanks to those who participated. I hope to see more keyboard tours being conducted in Australia (or at least let us participate!). If anyone still wants to try my HHKB just send me a PM and we can arrange things.
Have a nice day! :)
Post by: Moralless on Tue, 20 January 2015, 03:29:43
Hello everyone,
The tour has concluded and my HHKB has survived (hopefully). Still haven't plugged it in................................................. Thanks to those who participated. I hope to see more keyboard tours being conducted in Australia (or at least let us participate!). If anyone still wants to try my HHKB just send me a PM and we can arrange things.
Have a nice day! :)
I knew I forgot something! I'll try and write up my thoughts on topre tonight and post it sometime tomorrow morning. My own HHKB just arrived last Friday :D
Post by: Ngt on Tue, 20 January 2015, 05:18:21
Hello everyone,
The tour has concluded and my HHKB has survived (hopefully). Still haven't plugged it in................................................. Thanks to those who participated. I hope to see more keyboard tours being conducted in Australia (or at least let us participate!). If anyone still wants to try my HHKB just send me a PM and we can arrange things.
Have a nice day! :)
I knew I forgot something! I'll try and write up my thoughts on topre tonight and post it sometime tomorrow morning. My own HHKB just arrived last Friday :D
May we conclude that you liked Topre? :D
Post by: Moralless on Tue, 20 January 2015, 05:27:13
Nope. I love topre :pHello everyone,
The tour has concluded and my HHKB has survived (hopefully). Still haven't plugged it in................................................. Thanks to those who participated. I hope to see more keyboard tours being conducted in Australia (or at least let us participate!). If anyone still wants to try my HHKB just send me a PM and we can arrange things.
Have a nice day! :)
I knew I forgot something! I'll try and write up my thoughts on topre tonight and post it sometime tomorrow morning. My own HHKB just arrived last Friday :D
May we conclude that you liked Topre? :D
IMO topre switches is one of my favorite switch (my 2nd favorite being 68g clears). I'll expand why on my later post when I review the various topre switches I've tried (stock, lubed only, lubed + dental band mod) in this thread.
Post by: Ngt on Tue, 20 January 2015, 05:31:30
Nope. I love topre :pHello everyone,
The tour has concluded and my HHKB has survived (hopefully). Still haven't plugged it in................................................. Thanks to those who participated. I hope to see more keyboard tours being conducted in Australia (or at least let us participate!). If anyone still wants to try my HHKB just send me a PM and we can arrange things.
Have a nice day! :)
I knew I forgot something! I'll try and write up my thoughts on topre tonight and post it sometime tomorrow morning. My own HHKB just arrived last Friday :D
May we conclude that you liked Topre? :D
IMO topre switches is one of my favorite switch (my 2nd favorite being 68g clears). I'll expand why on my later post when I review the various topre switches I've tried (stock, lubed only, lubed + dental band mod) in this thread.
I'm looking forward to read it!
Post by: Moralless on Tue, 20 January 2015, 23:59:03
First off, I'd like to thank Jersern for doing this tour, as without this tour I probably wouldn't even invest $300 to try topre switches out and even bother with going through the hassle of having to sell the board if topres weren't for me. Also my whole experience with topre is solely based on my usage with the HHKB, please keep in mind that other topre boards such as the Leopold FC660C and the Realforces can provide different experiences.
To get some context on my experience with mechanical keyboards, I started getting into this around June last year, the first board that I got was the Corsair K65 with Cherry MX red switches. After that I sought to build myself a custom 60% keyboard as I felt that the layout of most 60% keyboards were not for me (this mainly included the Poker 2 and other variants of it such as the V60 KB Paradise or the Leopold FC660M). The board that I built (which I call the DM60) first started off having stock cherry MX clears, then lubed cherry MX clears, I then modified it to 68g lubed cherry MX clears, and switched the stems to have 68g lubed cherry MX blacks and finally went back again to 68g lubed Cherry MX clears.
So in saying that, going into this tour I thought that topres wouldn't be for me as I felt that cherry red switches were faaar too light and the fact that are both measured to be the same weighting made be doubtful that I would enjoy typing on them. However, like with most things, I was wrong, so so wrong about topre switches. These are without a doubt my FAVORITE switch that I have tried (68g clears comes 2nd and 68g blacks are 3rd). Unlike cherry reds the majority of the force required to actuate a topre switch is at the beginning of the keypress this creates a tactile feedback (that is more noticeable than browns but less so than clears) at the beginning and allows for a smooth glide down all the way until you land gently onto the plastic plate of the HHKB due to the rubber dome collapsing into itself and in return, reducing the amount of force required to push it down. In comparison to reds, actuating them requires more of a constant applied force all the way down and provides no tactile feedback. This lack of tactility made typing with reds really annoying as I would constantly have typos and the complete linear of the feel was something I could not get used to in the few months I used it. Gaming wise, I had no preference on either reds or topre as the games I typically play (MMOs, MOBAs) don't really require me spamming a single key so I found gaming on either of them pretty much equally enjoyable.
Stock vs. lubed vs. lubed + dental band mod
Jersern's HHKB, when it arrived, had already been lubed and the dental band mod installed. Although I enjoyed typing on it, it didn't feel as nice to me as a non dental banded one, as to my knowledge they reduce the distance the sliders go up, similar to how o-rings work with cherry keys. When I received my stock, unmodded HHKB I found the semi-high pitch clack on the upstroke pretty annoying. However after lubing it up with some of the spare thin lube I had left over which I bought from CtrlAlt, that was the moment I felt that topre switches were perfect for me. The main difference between lubed HHKBs and lubed + dental band modded HHKBs is that the lubed HHKBs maintain the tactility of the switch where as the ones with the dental band mod did not and left it a more linear switch. I believe this is due to the thickness of the dental bands as they prevent the domes to go back up to their natural position and actually be lower which would make it not require as much force for the rubber dome to collapse into itself as it is already somewhat depressed. Also much to my surprise, my lubed HHKB sounded very similar to Jersern's dental band modded HHKB in both the downstroke and upstroke. The biggest difference in sound for me was in the spacebar, as mine still had a higher pitched clack (but not as high as a stock hhkb) whereas Jersern's one was consistent all across the board. Maybe it was because of me with my poor lubing, but everywhere else on the board sounded pretty much exact to Jersern's dental band modded HHKB.
So that's all my thoughts on topre so far, I'd like to thank Jersern again for doing this tour and if anyone in Australia is curious about trying topre but don't feel like shelling the cash out I highly suggest talking to him :thumb:
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 00:07:31
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
Post by: Moralless on Wed, 21 January 2015, 00:26:36
nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I have personally never used PBT keycaps on cherry mx keys so I don't know what to tell you there but I personally find the topre thock a lot more satisfying to hear then any of the cherry mx keys(which are mostly based off youtube videos).
Also my mate went over to Japan for new years and he went to akihabara in Tokyo and said he saw a few HHKBs for sale there for only around 200,000 yen (roughly $200 AUD) which is insanely cheap since if you're planning to buy one from online then you're looking at a minimum of ~$260 aud to get one. So I would highly recommend getting one while you're over there. Besides even if you end up realizing you don't like your HHKB you could probably sell it for more than you bought it here in Australia since you would've gotten it for so cheap.
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 01:56:47
nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I have personally never used PBT keycaps on cherry mx keys so I don't know what to tell you there but I personally find the topre thock a lot more satisfying to hear then any of the cherry mx keys(which are mostly based off youtube videos).
Also my mate went over to Japan for new years and he went to akihabara in Tokyo and said he saw a few HHKBs for sale there for only around 200,000 yen (roughly $200 AUD) which is insanely cheap since if you're planning to buy one from online then you're looking at a minimum of ~$260 aud to get one. So I would highly recommend getting one while you're over there. Besides even if you end up realizing you don't like your HHKB you could probably sell it for more than you bought it here in Australia since you would've gotten it for so cheap.
Well, from my personal experience, PBT caps give a nicer, deeper and generally more satisfying sound on bottoming out compared to ABS caps.
With regards to price, with the current rates, I'm looking at half the price to buy it over there than if I were to buy it locally. I do think I'd like it though... I blame Jersern for this. He's been pestering me to get a HHKB for a few months now...lol....and with the prices i'm looking at....from Yodobashi Camera's online store, it seem very reasonable.
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 05:07:00
nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I haven't tried Topre already but I'm waiting on my Novatouch to arrive. I'm typing this on a Poker II w/ Black and PBT caps. When I bottom out the sound of the PBT caps reminds me of the videos of the "thock" Topre sound that I saw. I'll be able to tell you more once I'll try Topre.
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 05:59:05
Looking forward to it.Hopefully you receive your topre before the 7th of Feb since that's when i fly....nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I haven't tried Topre already but I'm waiting on my Novatouch to arrive. I'm typing this on a Poker II w/ Black and PBT caps. When I bottom out the sound of the PBT caps reminds me of the videos of the "thock" Topre sound that I saw. I'll be able to tell you more once I'll try Topre.
Post by: Moralless on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:08:31
nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I have personally never used PBT keycaps on cherry mx keys so I don't know what to tell you there but I personally find the topre thock a lot more satisfying to hear then any of the cherry mx keys(which are mostly based off youtube videos).
Also my mate went over to Japan for new years and he went to akihabara in Tokyo and said he saw a few HHKBs for sale there for only around 200,000 yen (roughly $200 AUD) which is insanely cheap since if you're planning to buy one from online then you're looking at a minimum of ~$260 aud to get one. So I would highly recommend getting one while you're over there. Besides even if you end up realizing you don't like your HHKB you could probably sell it for more than you bought it here in Australia since you would've gotten it for so cheap.
Well, from my personal experience, PBT caps give a nicer, deeper and generally more satisfying sound on bottoming out compared to ABS caps.
With regards to price, with the current rates, I'm looking at half the price to buy it over there than if I were to buy it locally. I do think I'd like it though... I blame Jersern for this. He's been pestering me to get a HHKB for a few months now...lol....and with the prices i'm looking at....from Yodobashi Camera's online store, it seem very reasonable.
Those are crazy good prices, I'd be really tempted not to get one :p
I blame Jersern for my HHKB as well but forgive him since it's awesome :)) do you live near him aswell?
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:21:40
they are crazy good prices and the reason why i'm scared for my wallet and bank account while i'm in tokyo.nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I have personally never used PBT keycaps on cherry mx keys so I don't know what to tell you there but I personally find the topre thock a lot more satisfying to hear then any of the cherry mx keys(which are mostly based off youtube videos).
Also my mate went over to Japan for new years and he went to akihabara in Tokyo and said he saw a few HHKBs for sale there for only around 200,000 yen (roughly $200 AUD) which is insanely cheap since if you're planning to buy one from online then you're looking at a minimum of ~$260 aud to get one. So I would highly recommend getting one while you're over there. Besides even if you end up realizing you don't like your HHKB you could probably sell it for more than you bought it here in Australia since you would've gotten it for so cheap.
Well, from my personal experience, PBT caps give a nicer, deeper and generally more satisfying sound on bottoming out compared to ABS caps.
With regards to price, with the current rates, I'm looking at half the price to buy it over there than if I were to buy it locally. I do think I'd like it though... I blame Jersern for this. He's been pestering me to get a HHKB for a few months now...lol....and with the prices i'm looking at....from Yodobashi Camera's online store, it seem very reasonable.
Those are crazy good prices, I'd be really tempted not to get one :p
I blame Jersern for my HHKB as well but forgive him since it's awesome :)) do you live near him aswell?
i live about 8 hours away...in singapore...lol
i was on holiday in sydney at that time and since the tour wasn't officially commenced I asked if i could pop on over to test a few of his keyboards and he was nice enough to let me visit....
he has a great selection of keyboards i must say. very envious of what he has....
when i get a chance, i'll try out the boards akihabara has to offer and i'll take lots of pics for you guys.
hoping that i'll love the stock HHKBs cos i really cannot afford to be spending money like i just won the lottery
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:24:42
Looking forward to it.Hopefully you receive your topre before the 7th of Feb since that's when i fly....nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I haven't tried Topre already but I'm waiting on my Novatouch to arrive. I'm typing this on a Poker II w/ Black and PBT caps. When I bottom out the sound of the PBT caps reminds me of the videos of the "thock" Topre sound that I saw. I'll be able to tell you more once I'll try Topre.
I hope I'll get it soon as well! It has been shipped last friday so it should arrive this week or the next one as it comes from Germany. I'll have to put the PBT set I have on the Poker on the new board because my other PBT set is being shipped from Korea so it may take longer than the Novatouch to arrive.
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:27:32
they are crazy good prices and the reason why i'm scared for my wallet and bank account while i'm in tokyo.nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I have personally never used PBT keycaps on cherry mx keys so I don't know what to tell you there but I personally find the topre thock a lot more satisfying to hear then any of the cherry mx keys(which are mostly based off youtube videos).
Also my mate went over to Japan for new years and he went to akihabara in Tokyo and said he saw a few HHKBs for sale there for only around 200,000 yen (roughly $200 AUD) which is insanely cheap since if you're planning to buy one from online then you're looking at a minimum of ~$260 aud to get one. So I would highly recommend getting one while you're over there. Besides even if you end up realizing you don't like your HHKB you could probably sell it for more than you bought it here in Australia since you would've gotten it for so cheap.
Well, from my personal experience, PBT caps give a nicer, deeper and generally more satisfying sound on bottoming out compared to ABS caps.
With regards to price, with the current rates, I'm looking at half the price to buy it over there than if I were to buy it locally. I do think I'd like it though... I blame Jersern for this. He's been pestering me to get a HHKB for a few months now...lol....and with the prices i'm looking at....from Yodobashi Camera's online store, it seem very reasonable.
Those are crazy good prices, I'd be really tempted not to get one :p
I blame Jersern for my HHKB as well but forgive him since it's awesome :)) do you live near him aswell?
i live about 8 hours away...in singapore...lol
i was on holiday in sydney at that time and since the tour wasn't officially commenced I asked if i could pop on over to test a few of his keyboards and he was nice enough to let me visit....
he has a great selection of keyboards i must say. very envious of what he has....
when i get a chance, i'll try out the boards akihabara has to offer and i'll take lots of pics for you guys.
hoping that i'll love the stock HHKBs cos i really cannot afford to be spending money like i just won the lottery
Are you referring to modding them when you talk about not liking the stock one? If that's so modding won't cost you so much money I think. It is going to be time-consuming however!
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:27:43
Looking forward to it.Hopefully you receive your topre before the 7th of Feb since that's when i fly....nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I haven't tried Topre already but I'm waiting on my Novatouch to arrive. I'm typing this on a Poker II w/ Black and PBT caps. When I bottom out the sound of the PBT caps reminds me of the videos of the "thock" Topre sound that I saw. I'll be able to tell you more once I'll try Topre.
I hope I'll get it soon as well! It has been shipped last friday so it should arrive this week or the next one as it comes from Germany. I'll have to put the PBT set I have on the Poker on the new board because my other PBT set is being shipped from Korea so it may take longer than the Novatouch to arrive.
exciting times.....if only the topre sets had more choices in terms of keycaps like the mx.....but if it comes stock with pbt, which i think the hhkb does..then i have no complaints
well, anything i spend on would be too much money i suppose....
i only had my filco for about a month and now i'm thinking of getting a topre and selling this one off...
thing is, the market here is too small and it's hard to sell things. and shipping may not exactly be the best for the price of the item....
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:38:11
Looking forward to it.Hopefully you receive your topre before the 7th of Feb since that's when i fly....nice write up moralles....i have to admit, while I was over in sydney in december last year I tried out Jersern's hhkb in person, and it has left quite an impression on me... I like the smoothness of the topre switch.
the only thing stopping me from getting one is the local price...but since i'm going to tokyo in a few weeks, i'm very tempted to purchase one....
with regards to the sound, does the stock hhkb sound something like an mx switch with pbt caps? cos if it is, then i'm definitely in for one.....
I haven't tried Topre already but I'm waiting on my Novatouch to arrive. I'm typing this on a Poker II w/ Black and PBT caps. When I bottom out the sound of the PBT caps reminds me of the videos of the "thock" Topre sound that I saw. I'll be able to tell you more once I'll try Topre.
I hope I'll get it soon as well! It has been shipped last friday so it should arrive this week or the next one as it comes from Germany. I'll have to put the PBT set I have on the Poker on the new board because my other PBT set is being shipped from Korea so it may take longer than the Novatouch to arrive.
exciting times.....if only the topre sets had more choices in terms of keycaps like the mx.....but if it comes stock with pbt, which i think the hhkb does..then i have no complaints
IIRC the HHKB comes with PBT key caps. I love the two tones grey set! That's why I went for the Novatouch. It is cheaper and you have a wide choice of keycaps to choose from. Even if some say that it is not the true Topre experience I think it can be achieved once you the right keycaps set on it and with maybe a bit of modding. It is the perfect excuses for me to start modding some keyboards. :thumb:
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:43:06
which put me off right away...but i suppose the ability to use cherry caps is a plus point
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 06:48:56
Here you go! This is the japanese version but you see the set I am talking about. I got my Novatouch for 145€ w/o shipping fees. It is 180€ NIB atm but I just noticed something that I didn't before. I might have bought a prototype version and it kind of annoys me a bit. I'll check to see if that's the case or not.
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 07:27:58
Post by: derb2k2 on Wed, 21 January 2015, 07:37:33
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 07:40:13
that looks nice!..somehow i am unable to find just the caps in that colour with a black body...
No I think it only exists for the white version. But maybe you could try modding the color of your case once you'll feel up to it. I've seen post about people painting their cases using paint cans. I don't know if it gives a good result but as far as I could tell by watching the pictures it did have a nice effect. Maybe that's a lead you could dig if you wish to change the color of your case.
Trading with someone's that has a black version could be another way to get a black case too!
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 07:57:22
meh, not really into painting anything really. if i do and that isn't really a big if, get one...i'll be more than happy with the black on black one actually.....
Post by: Ngt on Wed, 21 January 2015, 12:18:28
you guys are seriously wallethacking me....lol
meh, not really into painting anything really. if i do and that isn't really a big if, get one...i'll be more than happy with the black on black one actually.....
I didn't say that you should buy the white version with the 2 tones grey set. I just said that I like it. It is your keyboard you do w/e pleases you in that regard. :p
Post by: Jersern on Wed, 21 January 2015, 14:34:23
Post by: cephelix on Wed, 21 January 2015, 19:27:36
i know i know.... :-*you guys are seriously wallethacking me....lol
meh, not really into painting anything really. if i do and that isn't really a big if, get one...i'll be more than happy with the black on black one actually.....
I didn't say that you should buy the white version with the 2 tones grey set. I just said that I like it. It is your keyboard you do w/e pleases you in that regard. :p
lol....definitely getting more excited to try out the unmodded hhkb now
Post by: Ngt on Thu, 22 January 2015, 05:49:39
Yeah I must admit I'd like to try one as well but there are no tour in Europe AFAIK.i know i know.... :-*you guys are seriously wallethacking me....lol
meh, not really into painting anything really. if i do and that isn't really a big if, get one...i'll be more than happy with the black on black one actually.....
I didn't say that you should buy the white version with the 2 tones grey set. I just said that I like it. It is your keyboard you do w/e pleases you in that regard.
lol....definitely getting more excited to try out the unmodded hhkb now
Post by: cephelix on Thu, 22 January 2015, 06:25:52
What are you waiting for? Hop on a plane to Tokyo! There are tons to try there!Yeah I must admit I'd like to try one as well but there are no tour in Europe AFAIK.i know i know.... :-*you guys are seriously wallethacking me....lol
meh, not really into painting anything really. if i do and that isn't really a big if, get one...i'll be more than happy with the black on black one actually.....
I didn't say that you should buy the white version with the 2 tones grey set. I just said that I like it. It is your keyboard you do w/e pleases you in that regard.
lol....definitely getting more excited to try out the unmodded hhkb now
Post by: Ngt on Thu, 22 January 2015, 10:06:13
What are you waiting for? Hop on a plane to Tokyo! There are tons to try there!Yeah I must admit I'd like to try one as well but there are no tour in Europe AFAIK.i know i know.... :-*you guys are seriously wallethacking me....lol
meh, not really into painting anything really. if i do and that isn't really a big if, get one...i'll be more than happy with the black on black one actually.....
I didn't say that you should buy the white version with the 2 tones grey set. I just said that I like it. It is your keyboard you do w/e pleases you in that regard.Show Image(https://s3.amazonaws.com/tapatalk-emoji/emoji14.png)
lol....definitely getting more excited to try out the unmodded hhkb now
Japan is a must go for me especialy for the cuisine! I love it! Only for the keyboard it'd be cheaper to buy one and import it! ^^
Post by: cephelix on Thu, 22 January 2015, 10:10:12
Post by: Ngt on Thu, 22 January 2015, 13:03:36
of course for the cuisine..and the sights as well.....i thought that was a given?Yeah you're right! How long are you staying there?
Post by: cephelix on Thu, 22 January 2015, 14:04:09
12 days!!!woohoo!of course for the cuisine..and the sights as well.....i thought that was a given?Yeah you're right! How long are you staying there?
Post by: Ngt on Thu, 22 January 2015, 16:42:44
Nice enjoy it then!12 days!!!woohoo!of course for the cuisine..and the sights as well.....i thought that was a given?Yeah you're right! How long are you staying there?
Post by: cephelix on Thu, 22 January 2015, 17:20:42