Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 12 December 2014, 09:31:41
TL;DR
-
- order more or equal than what you committed (not less)
- colors will be: light blue, red, light gray, dark gray.
- the spacebars are actually already in production, you'll get them really soon
The story so far
A little by chance at the end of last year I found a manufacturer in Europe able to make the Topre spacebars in PBT. Only problem... a ginormous MOQ and quite a steep cost for the mold. Anyway I started this "purchase intent" to check on the interest of such a project and hopefully find some sponsors.
Sponsor that materialized in the form of Massdrop. Months passed and soon was clear that it couldn't be possible to produce the spacebar at a reasonable price point in Europe... so China it is.
From China with love
First of all let me say that all you hear about manufacturing in China is true. Making them do exactly what you need is a darn odyssey, but sure it's cheaper. Anyway, the purchase intent went well, so we have the numbers to proceed.
We ordered 8 prototypes. These prototypes are milled not injected, they are needed just to check that the 3d model is good. On that 3d model we will be forging the final mold.
And here we are now
I have the prototypes in my hands, the colors are still not perfect and there are few things to update, but that's what prototypes are for. Overall I'm very satisfied by the product. The 3D model is a perfect 1:1 replica of the original. Seriously you can't tell the difference.
I'm happy to finally be able to tell you that... the mold has already been paid for and it is in production! This means that when the GB ends the spacebars will be already done (or close to).
Shut up and take my money
The group buy will start very soon (it's a matter of hours now). I'll do my best to have some kind of bonus for all those who preordered but MOQ is still pretty high and margin very small. I hope you'll understand if that won't be possible.
The cost per key should be around what we estimated, $9, possibly something less, I'll know for sure in the next few hours. Volume discount will be available. It will be possible to buy 1 black and 1 white, 2 black, 2 white, 2 colors, all 4. I don't think it will be possible to buy only one, sorry. That is because the high MOQ.
Colors will be: white (aka: light gray), black (aka: dark gray), red, light blue. These colors have been chosen by you and I believe they are just perfect. Remember that you can always dye-at-home the white one.
Colors are all matched, but 100% match won't be technically possible.
Pre production samples
Let me thank the guys at Massdrop that made all this possible. Especially Andrew and Kunal. They agreed at running pre-production samples. This means that a couple of weeks from now, while you will be still ordering your spacebars, I will be holding a semi-final product. If anything is wrong with it, we will have 2 more weeks to fix it in time for the GB end.
I'm closing the "purchase intent" form now, if you participated, you are the one who made this possible. Thanks to the huge numbers we raised I was able to persuade Massdrop to join this adventure. As soon as the GB will be up I will be emailing you a friendly reminder. You can change your order, but please try not to order less than what you already told us.
Thank you everybody! Now let's inject some plastic!
Yours,
Matt3o
(http://i.imgur.com/xPvuO3x.jpg)
Post by: Lurch on Fri, 12 December 2014, 09:44:05
Thanks Matt3o. :thumb:
Post by: cooldiscretion on Fri, 12 December 2014, 09:55:00
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 12 December 2014, 09:57:02
Post by: Sygaldry on Fri, 12 December 2014, 09:59:15
Voted light green, light blue, medium gray for color pack!
Post by: Juice on Fri, 12 December 2014, 10:07:17
Voted for medium grey, yellow and light blue
Post by: strict on Fri, 12 December 2014, 10:07:31
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 12 December 2014, 10:10:21
Post by: Puddsy on Fri, 12 December 2014, 10:42:36
Post by: intelli78 on Fri, 12 December 2014, 10:49:14
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 12 December 2014, 11:38:16
Post by: Lurch on Fri, 12 December 2014, 11:40:05
Post by: _PixelNinja on Fri, 12 December 2014, 11:42:13
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 12 December 2014, 11:58:47
Post by: HendyZone on Fri, 12 December 2014, 12:27:17
Post by: Heliosphere on Fri, 12 December 2014, 12:43:32
Post by: pexon on Fri, 12 December 2014, 12:45:08
Voted for red, purple and medium grey
Post by: Sturmfrau on Fri, 12 December 2014, 12:52:05
Form filled!
Post by: Lurch on Fri, 12 December 2014, 12:53:05
Voted for purple, red, and medium gray.
Form filled :thumb:
Voted for red, purple and medium grey
I like the way you think.
Post by: pexon on Fri, 12 December 2014, 12:55:54
Voted for purple, red, and medium gray.Form filled :thumb:
Voted for red, purple and medium grey
I like the way you think.
Great minds think alike ;)
Post by: byker on Fri, 12 December 2014, 13:04:46
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 12 December 2014, 14:15:14
Post by: SuperBobKing on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:04:38
Post by: Heliosphere on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:16:23
Post by: sundin on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:16:44
Post by: Halverson on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:19:06
Post by: crazystu on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:23:53
Post by: bowji on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:24:34
I just filled out the form. Thanks for the hard work guys, keep it up and lets make this happen!
Post by: Latin00032 on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:35:04
I hope this is compatible without breaking the spacebar stabilizers. I heard the reason these pbt space bars don't exist is because of compatibility problems.
Post by: Smasher816 on Fri, 12 December 2014, 15:43:53
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 12 December 2014, 16:53:17
blue
red
light blue
light green
medium gray
purple
orange
pink
they are all very close! keep voting :)
Post by: honoka on Fri, 12 December 2014, 17:08:25
Hugs
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 12 December 2014, 17:46:19
Because your name is connected to this Matt I know this will be a serious venture that will yield results, you're doing something that the clowns at Realforce and HHKB failed to ever even try.
I hope this picks up in the beginning of 2015 so that we can finally remove all our ABS spacers in favour of these wonderful babies.
Post by: FrostyToast on Fri, 12 December 2014, 18:21:06
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 13 December 2014, 01:42:45
Will the light blue be akin to something like GMK cyan?
I'd say more like this https://elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=access,toprekeys&pid=pd_kb400kt01
Post by: jackalope on Sat, 13 December 2014, 01:43:43
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 13 December 2014, 02:41:37
I believe there's hope for this to become a reality! Spread the word!
Color preference so far:
Code: [Select]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Medium gray]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Purple]
[Orange]
[Pink]
[Blue]
[Yellow]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Beige]
[Magenta]
They are all very close up to Green. Nothing is set to stone yet.
Post by: AKIMbO on Sat, 13 December 2014, 05:37:15
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 13 December 2014, 06:32:09
Post by: bowji on Sat, 13 December 2014, 08:10:13
Post by: MJ45 on Sat, 13 December 2014, 08:58:26
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 13 December 2014, 09:02:32
Form filled; Matt3o in regards to the color match will it be the PBT key color or the ABS? Because to my eye the ABS spacebar color is a little off from the PBT color (especially the black-dark grey).
that is a very good point actually.
We should totally try to match the PBT color, not the ABS.
Post by: Juice on Sat, 13 December 2014, 10:24:14
How much would "semi" color matching (for the colored spacebars) cost . I don't think they have to match 100% but if the manufacturer could do limited color matching to get the spacebars kind of close that would be fantastic. I don't think that they would have any problems selling the "test run" batches.
Post by: ideus on Sat, 13 December 2014, 10:36:19
My family would kill me if they found out I am going to be spending $70 on spacebars. :))
And your conscience... But, no wait, what am I saying? this is GH where we stud for great keyboards no matter the costs, we are not bean counters, Are we?
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 13 December 2014, 10:49:13
More votes for yellow please :)
How much would "semi" color matching (for the colored spacebars) cost . I don't think they have to match 100% but if the manufacturer could do limited color matching to get the spacebars kind of close that would be fantastic. I don't think that they would have any problems selling the "test run" batches.
they don't do that. the best we can do is eye-matching ourselves and give them a pantone code.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sat, 13 December 2014, 12:18:20
Post by: echo0 on Sat, 13 December 2014, 12:20:32
Post by: strict on Sat, 13 December 2014, 14:48:38
that is a very good point actually.
We should totally try to match the PBT color, not the ABS.
The next question is, do we match the alphas or the 2x mods. To my eyes the UB 2x modifier keys are slightly darker than the alphas. I think matching the alphas are the way to go personally.
There might be better pictures out there of the effect but this is one that I took where the Enter, RShift, and Backspace keys look appreciably darker than the nearby alpha keys.
(https://i.imgur.com/baaoD9z.jpg)
Post by: sundin on Sat, 13 December 2014, 16:12:27
(http://stkr.es/s/zp9)
Post by: swill on Sat, 13 December 2014, 20:44:25
Post by: Puddsy on Sat, 13 December 2014, 20:52:47
best color
Post by: tmk1207 on Sat, 13 December 2014, 21:05:07
Post by: Vizir on Sat, 13 December 2014, 22:55:21
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 13 December 2014, 23:10:49
No but seriously, just getting this GB to happen will be awesome regardless of what colors get chosen.
Hopefully we can keep the momentum going across all the forums.
Post by: swill on Sat, 13 December 2014, 23:36:36
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 01:45:02
I am counting on these space bars working on an FC660C. I seems to imply that they will in the OP... :)
all topre keyboards use the same tooling for keycaps. the spacebar is compatible with all (major) topre keyboards!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 01:50:13
we are at 27% of the total. Long way to go, keep rolling!
Preferred colors so far:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Purple]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Blue]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Yellow]
[Beige]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Post by: Jersern on Sun, 14 December 2014, 01:58:51
Post by: Sygaldry on Sun, 14 December 2014, 02:00:59
I presume these space bars will work on my HHKB? (6u or the likes)Your presumption is correct!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 02:03:39
Realforce
HHKB
Leopold 660C
Type Heaven
Post by: Heliosphere on Sun, 14 December 2014, 02:22:35
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 02:24:33
Awesome, that covers pretty much every Topre board right?
yeah we just miss the hi-pro, and probably some old topre model.
Post by: Halverson on Sun, 14 December 2014, 02:48:13
Not sure what the point of a colored spacebar is when there wouldn't be anything to match it. That said, I'm definitely in for a couple black and a couple white.
I was hoping for at least the mint green to match close to clack mint gum. Between topre colored sets and novelty caps, most should have some sort of match is imagine.
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 03:09:50
Post by: MGH on Sun, 14 December 2014, 03:14:31
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 03:32:45
Whats the price estimate if Massdrop and MechanicalKeyboards gets on board?
the price shouldn't change much. They will run some numbers next week and let me know. I guess it could go from 9 to 12. Massdrop has volume discounts, so --who knows-- it could go even lower at high tiers (I dunno of course).
Post by: DanielT on Sun, 14 December 2014, 04:08:55
Post by: Bucake on Sun, 14 December 2014, 10:49:48
2 Black/Dark Gray
2 White/Light Gray
awesome work, Matt3o
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 11:07:28
We are at 28%, in 2 days I'd say it's not bad, tomorrow I'll speak with MK and MD, I hope to be able to move this quickly. Please keep "ordering", the higher the numbers the easier will be to convince potential investor!
Current color preference
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Purple]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Blue]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Yellow]
[Beige]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Post by: intelli78 on Sun, 14 December 2014, 11:21:19
Awesome, that covers pretty much every Topre board right?
yeah we just miss the hi-pro, and probably some old topre model.
Also the 10th anniversary keycap set. It would be nice to have properly matched PBT for that, but the cost probably cannot be justified.
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 11:23:18
Awesome, that covers pretty much every Topre board right?
yeah we just miss the hi-pro, and probably some old topre model.
Also the 10th anniversary keycap set. It would be nice to have properly matched PBT for that, but the cost probably cannot be justified.
I'll try to match the "Medium gray", but it will be a ballpark
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 12:09:19
Geekhack: 45%
Deskthority: 25%
Reddit: 20%
KBDMania: 3%
others: 7%
Post by: Vizir on Sun, 14 December 2014, 13:00:28
Confirmed compatibility list:
Realforce
HHKB
Leopold 660C
Type Heaven
are you saying that these spacebars will work with Realorce, HHKB, F660C and Type Heaven? Confirm/deny. ;D :p
i'm so glad this is happening. i need an excuse to pick up a 2 order of the colored keys too... once the final colors are decided, i guess.
Post by: madhias on Sun, 14 December 2014, 13:10:12
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 14 December 2014, 13:37:25
The community weight is interesting! I would have guessed that GH is about 50%, and Reddit way more than DT.
it's not the number of orders, but how much people spent. Reddit has more user than DT, but DT spends more.
Post by: delidana on Sun, 14 December 2014, 14:37:24
Post by: Vizir on Sun, 14 December 2014, 15:27:36
True. Most of reddit would be horrified to hear of people spending over $200 for keyboards. I remember someone posted a NIB model m for $200 or so and most of the comments where "why is it so expensive?"The community weight is interesting! I would have guessed that GH is about 50%, and Reddit way more than DT.
it's not the number of orders, but how much people spent. Reddit has more user than DT, but DT spends more.
Post by: Sygaldry on Sun, 14 December 2014, 15:38:58
Can confirm this. I got into MKs because of /r/mechanicalkeyboards and was horrified with the cost of a Poker II.True. Most of reddit would be horrified to hear of people spending over $200 for keyboards. I remember someone posted a NIB model m for $200 or so and most of the comments where "why is it so expensive?"The community weight is interesting! I would have guessed that GH is about 50%, and Reddit way more than DT.
it's not the number of orders, but how much people spent. Reddit has more user than DT, but DT spends more.
A year and a half later and I now have a Duck Viper and an HHKB Type-S............
Post by: Elrick on Sun, 14 December 2014, 19:35:41
Reddit has more user than DT, but DT spends more.
Plus DT has more adults in charge of their wallets compared to the juveniles on Reddit :p .
Post by: Puddsy on Sun, 14 December 2014, 20:32:30
Reddit has more user than DT, but DT spends more.
Plus DT has more adults in charge of their wallets compared to the juveniles on Reddit :p .
We've got a bunch of teenagers/college students around here as well.
Myself included.
Post by: breaker9691 on Sun, 14 December 2014, 23:34:46
Post by: FrostyToast on Sun, 14 December 2014, 23:37:32
True. Most of reddit would be horrified to hear of people spending over $200 for keyboards. I remember someone posted a NIB model m for $200 or so and most of the comments where "why is it so expensive?"The community weight is interesting! I would have guessed that GH is about 50%, and Reddit way more than DT.
it's not the number of orders, but how much people spent. Reddit has more user than DT, but DT spends more.
I also hate how every other post on there seems to be a picture of a stock board.
Please, for the love of god, I know what a Poker II looks like. This it's great to have our "Post your..." threads so the front page isn't getting crapped on.
Post by: exitfire401 on Sun, 14 December 2014, 23:44:31
Post by: FrostyToast on Sun, 14 December 2014, 23:46:46
Just going to post this here since I didn't see a notes section when I submitted earlier. Probably won't buy a color pack unless my 3 colors are the winners, but I'll be buying 2 black and 2 white no matter what.
That's the one big problem with this form.
We may have a lot of people dropping out depending on what colours will be chosen.
Post by: do_Og@n on Sun, 14 December 2014, 23:47:33
Post by: awts on Mon, 15 December 2014, 01:07:50
Post by: atlas3686 on Mon, 15 December 2014, 01:56:30
Awesome, that covers pretty much every Topre board right?
yeah we just miss the hi-pro, and probably some old topre model.
Also the 10th anniversary keycap set. It would be nice to have properly matched PBT for that, but the cost probably cannot be justified.
I'll try to match the "Medium gray", but it will be a ballpark
Awesome was going to ask the same thing, also chose medium gray when I filled in hoping that would be the case :thumb:
Post by: Halverson on Mon, 15 December 2014, 02:14:51
Just going to post this here since I didn't see a notes section when I submitted earlier. Probably won't buy a color pack unless my 3 colors are the winners, but I'll be buying 2 black and 2 white no matter what.
Solution? Make every color your color and just be disappointed you can only get three! :D
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 15 December 2014, 02:18:19
We have a very high MOQ so I put the 3 colors together. I know it sucks but if you get at least 2 out of 3 colors that you like, please consider not cancelling your order. Consider it a price to pay to have this project finalized. Also I'm pretty sure you'll be able to resell the unwanted color.
That being said this is the color preference
Code: [Select]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Medium gray]
[Purple]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Orange]
[Pink]
[Blue]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Yellow]
[Beige]
[Brown]
[Magenta]We are 30% now, when we reach 50% I'll also post the number of votes per each color, for now just note that the difference from one another is very small.
This is the new community impact:
Code: [Select]
[Geekhack] => 48%
[Deskthority] => 22%
[Reddit] => 16%
[KBDMania] => 3%
[others] => 11%
Post by: Findecanor on Mon, 15 December 2014, 07:17:16
Post by: FrostyToast on Mon, 15 December 2014, 07:33:15
WTF.. minimum order 2 space bars per colour. I want only one or none.
It will be hard to reach the moq if we only do orders in singles. After all, we need 1000 for each colour.
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 15 December 2014, 07:34:04
WTF.. minimum order 2 space bars per colour. I want only one or none.
:eek:
Post by: strict on Mon, 15 December 2014, 07:48:42
WTF.. minimum order 2 space bars per colour. I want only one or none.
Purchasing two not only helps us meet MOQ, but this is a GB that will very likely never happen again or if it does it wont be for a very long time. It's definitely worth your while to purchase more than one. Besides, its not like their really that expensive; they're only $9 a piece.
Post by: Juice on Mon, 15 December 2014, 10:06:33
WTF.. minimum order 2 space bars per colour. I want only one or none.
Well at first I thought: hey dont worry I can help you out, I'll sign up for an extra double pack and sell you one of them, but then that attitude of yours kind of put me off. Hopefully it just came out wrong even though I have a hard time interpreting it that way.
Post by: swill on Mon, 15 December 2014, 10:15:02
Post by: Juice on Mon, 15 December 2014, 10:28:20
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 15 December 2014, 10:43:24
I don't know if I should multiply the vote by the number of color packs purchased... mmmh
Post by: swill on Mon, 15 December 2014, 11:17:35
pink can still make it, yellow would need really a lot of love.
I don't know if I should multiply the vote by the number of color packs purchased... mmmh
That seems like a good idea. That way we are getting closer to the 'real' number of what people are interested in.
Post by: Vizir on Mon, 15 December 2014, 12:03:05
WTF.. minimum order 2 space bars per colour. I want only one or none.
Well at first I thought: hey dont worry I can help you out, I'll sign up for an extra double pack and sell you one of them, but then that attitude of yours kind of put me off. Hopefully it just came out wrong even though I have a hard time interpreting it that way.
i was going to suggest that people team up to buy a 2 pack, when they need 1 each. unfortunately, disagreements and attitudes might be an issue.
pink can still make it, yellow would need really a lot of love.
I don't know if I should multiply the vote by the number of color packs purchased... mmmh
i think that'd make sense, since that is the total # of pieces being shipped. what if 1 person decides to buy 1k of colorX? i have no personal interest in this since i chose no colors, but it just makes sense to count each item sold vs customers.
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 15 December 2014, 12:15:13
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Purple]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Pink]
[Blue]
[Orange]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Yellow]
[Beige]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Post by: sundin on Mon, 15 December 2014, 13:45:03
Post by: Puddsy on Mon, 15 December 2014, 14:50:23
PINK PINK PINKShow Image(http://stkr.es/s/zp7)
VOTE PINK
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 15 December 2014, 14:51:30
(Lime green is the closest font color available on GH :-X )
Post by: sundin on Mon, 15 December 2014, 15:37:52
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 15 December 2014, 16:59:48
(mhwahahhahaha)
Post by: Findecanor on Mon, 15 December 2014, 17:16:46
It will be hard to reach the moq if we only do orders in singles. After all, we need 1000 for each colour.I get that, but I think that if the minimum is two then I am afraid there would also be people who wouldn't get in at all. Maybe it would be better to set the price of only 1 to $15 or so, so that there would be an incentive to buy more.
I am also disappointed of being told about the 2-space bar minimum first in the fine print in the form. That should be told in the first post. Sure, it is not an order form, but still.
Purchasing two not only helps us meet MOQ, but this is a GB that will very likely never happen again or if it does it wont be for a very long time.That is a good argument.
:eek:I don't belong to the group who buys lots of keycap sets in various profile and colours all the time. I don't have that much money to spend. I buy used Cherry keyboards for less than $9, refurbish/rebuild them and then use the hell out of them.
I'm not a snob. I use high-quality keyboards because it costs more (not just in money) to use low quality keyboards, not because it is a fad or because I like to customize with pretty colours or clacks. I don't see why I should have to defend myself. There are as many different ways of collecting and using keyboards on this board as there are different people on this board.
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 15 December 2014, 17:23:36
WTF.. minimum order 2 space bars per colour. I want only one or none.
It will be hard to reach the moq if we only do orders in singles. After all, we need 1000 for each colour.
Is it really 1000 per color?
I thought it was just 1000 total.
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 15 December 2014, 18:16:03
or would we need at least 5 colours to hit 1000+?
or are there no official numbers yet? :D
Post by: Heliosphere on Mon, 15 December 2014, 18:28:54
If you're only willing to purchase 1 spacebar, then just wait for the GB to happen and buy it from someone who bought in. I don't like paying so much up front either when I only need one or two spacebars, but I'm sure many people will be buying and selling single spacebars afterwards.
Matt3o, maybe you can create an option to buy a two-pack of a white and a black spacebar?
Post by: Polymer on Mon, 15 December 2014, 18:55:48
I do think "2 packs" are a bit odd...2 minimum is fine but someone should be able to do 3 without committing to 4. I also think 2 minimum but one of each color would be a good option as well.
Great work on the group buy though..fantastic effort..for something the community has definitely been wanting for awhile....
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 15 December 2014, 18:56:54
The quantity needed to proceed with the actual order is fixed at "a-f�ck-load"! Let's say that 1000 spacebars would just raise an eyebrow.
sounds to me like it could be a minimum of 5k or even more. maybe 5 colours x 1000 pieces at least?
and i agree with the above; if possible, it would be nice to have the option to get a pack with 1 white and 1 black. or/and the option to get 3 pieces, rather than having to commit to 4.
Awesome, that covers pretty much every Topre board right?
yeah we just miss the hi-pro, and probably some old topre model.
(http://xahlee.info/kbd/i/happy_hacking_keyboard_jp_layout.jpg)
:D
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Mon, 15 December 2014, 18:58:50
Post by: Heliosphere on Mon, 15 December 2014, 18:58:55
I forgot about the Japanese layout.Awesome, that covers pretty much every Topre board right?
yeah we just miss the hi-pro, and probably some old topre model.Show Image(http://xahlee.info/kbd/i/happy_hacking_keyboard_jp_layout.jpg)
:D
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 15 December 2014, 19:07:45
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 15 December 2014, 19:11:55
:eek:It will be hard to reach the moq if we only do orders in singles. After all, we need 1000 for each colour.I get that, but I think that if the minimum is two then I am afraid there would also be people who wouldn't get in at all. Maybe it would be better to set the price of only 1 to $15 or so, so that there would be an incentive to buy more.
I am also disappointed of being told about the 2-space bar minimum first in the fine print in the form. That should be told in the first post. Sure, it is not an order form, but still.Purchasing two not only helps us meet MOQ, but this is a GB that will very likely never happen again or if it does it wont be for a very long time.That is a good argument.:eek:I don't belong to the group who buys lots of keycap sets in various profile and colours all the time. I don't have that much money to spend. I buy used Cherry keyboards for less than $9, refurbish/rebuild them and then use the hell out of them.
I'm not a snob. I use high-quality keyboards because it costs more (not just in money) to use low quality keyboards, not because it is a fad or because I like to customize with pretty colours or clacks. I don't see why I should have to defend myself. There are as many different ways of collecting and using keyboards on this board as there are different people on this board.
Post by: minh278 on Mon, 15 December 2014, 23:13:34
Post by: FrostyToast on Mon, 15 December 2014, 23:16:25
It would be useful to compile an array of different colour packs and which ones people would be willing to buy and how much of each if they were made.
This would give us a truly accurate representation of demand and what we will realistically get once the GB is live.
Post by: Juice on Tue, 16 December 2014, 01:14:59
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 16 December 2014, 01:22:48
Black and White are *not* sold in "packs". If you set the quantity to 2, you get 2 spacebars. If you set it to 3 you get 3.
Only the colored spacebars are sold in packs of 3.
Regarding the MOQ. The group buy could start at 2000 spacebars.
That being said I'm negotiating with two companies (MassDrop and Mechanicalkeyboard), they both seem interested in supporting the GB. If one of them confirms, this GB could start tomorrow :) There might be some changes in the price and the bundles of course.
Please keep ordering, the higher the numbers, the higher our contractual weight.
We are now at 33% we are doing very well, but we are still very far.
Colors:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Purple] [Mint/Light Green] [Blue]
[Pink] [Orange]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Post by: dante on Tue, 16 December 2014, 10:35:43
Post by: Wildcard on Tue, 16 December 2014, 10:40:51
just a quick note: the medium gray won't be color matched to the 10th anniversary (color matching is quite expensive).
Edit: Is the green matched to Topre green set? Could we possibly get the color codes to get close to these (grey,green)?
Post by: ideus on Tue, 16 December 2014, 10:53:07
Some clarifications.
Black and White are *not* sold in "packs". If you set the quantity to 2, you get 2 spacebars. If you set it to 3 you get 3.
Only the colored spacebars are sold in packs of 3.
Regarding the MOQ. The group buy could start at 2000 spacebars.
That being said I'm negotiating with two companies (MassDrop and Mechanicalkeyboard), they both seem interested in supporting the GB. If one of them confirms, this GB could start tomorrow :) There might be some changes in the price and the bundles of course.
Please keep ordering, the higher the numbers, the higher our contractual weight.
We are now at 33% we are doing very well, but we are still very far.
Colors:Code: [Select][Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Purple] [Mint/Light Green] [Blue]
[Pink] [Orange]
[Green]
[Lavender]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Does this mean 660 units have been reserved? Which colors?
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 16 December 2014, 11:00:09
Post by: Juice on Tue, 16 December 2014, 11:53:12
Post by: SuperBobKing on Tue, 16 December 2014, 13:31:01
The best way of doing this imho would be to allow people to specify how many of each color they want. For example: I want "two green and one pink" or "three yellow two blue and one grey". Then just take the sum for each color.
I really like that idea. Maybe for the group buy it could be set up so that you can purchase the colors individually, but have a MOQ for each color. It seems like more would get sold that way, especially if there are a lot of colors that are really close. I would buy one of each color that matches the colored mods on elite keyboards. Especially the lime green ones. I signed up for the colored kit but if none of them match I probably won't end up getting it. Space bars that don't match any of the other keys aren't really my thing.
As far as I understand it the majority of the cost is in the tooling, so it doesn't seem like different colors would need a very high MOQ to make it. If making it so that colors were individual would result in too many people buying less than three of them a minimum of three colored bars (if you get any) could be kept. Being able to choose which three colors you get would result in more orders.
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 16 December 2014, 17:10:43
Post by: ideus on Tue, 16 December 2014, 18:01:24
Post by: SuperBobKing on Tue, 16 December 2014, 18:36:21
The final numbers on this intent will provide some actual data on how many users of Topre keyboards are in the major boards dedicated to keyboards.
There are probably people who are participating even if they don't have one but are planning on it, since it isn't likely to happen again. (I am one).
Post by: Bucake on Tue, 16 December 2014, 23:40:06
The final numbers on this intent will provide some actual data on how many users of Topre keyboards are in the major boards dedicated to keyboards.
There are probably people who are participating even if they don't have one but are planning on it, since it isn't likely to happen again. (I am one).
that's where i'm at too :]
Post by: Sygaldry on Tue, 16 December 2014, 23:50:25
The final numbers on this intent will provide some actual data on how many users of Topre keyboards are in the major boards dedicated to keyboards.
There are probably people who are participating even if they don't have one but are planning on it, since it isn't likely to happen again. (I am one).
The final numbers on this intent will provide some actual data on how many users of Topre keyboards are in the major boards dedicated to keyboards.
There are probably people who are participating even if they don't have one but are planning on it, since it isn't likely to happen again. (I am one).
that's where i'm at too :]
I traded my HHKB Type-S away last month and ended up buying another one this week to replace it in anticipation of this group buy :-X
I need to put my credit cards on lock down from now on. And yes, I admit that I have terrible judgement with my personal finances...
I'm praying this group buy happens or I may end up putting scotch tape on my spacebar (again) when the board arrives next week from Japan :'(
Post by: Juice on Wed, 17 December 2014, 01:21:18
I know it would be better to be able to cherry pick the colors we want, but with such huge MOQ we simply can't. If I can get a reseller involved they will handle quantities and bundle in any they want, you'll probably be able to pick 1 black and 1 white (I don't know), but as of now I believe this is the best chance we have to reach 2000.
My suggestion was not to let everyone pick a random number of whichever color they want. This would only apply to the colored ones not the black and white. I think a minimum of two for those are perfectly fine. My suggestion was just meant to be a more accurate way of finding out which colors are the most popular ones. Say I have three boards with green caps then I would want to vote for green three times someone else has two yellow sets and a pink so they would vote for two yellow and one pink. Once we reach moq (we will ) then you add up the total for every color.
Just a suggestion but anyway you guys want to play this is fine by me!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 17 December 2014, 01:59:56
I know it would be better to be able to cherry pick the colors we want, but with such huge MOQ we simply can't. If I can get a reseller involved they will handle quantities and bundle in any they want, you'll probably be able to pick 1 black and 1 white (I don't know), but as of now I believe this is the best chance we have to reach 2000.
My suggestion was not to let everyone pick a random number of whichever color they want. This would only apply to the colored ones not the black and white. I think a minimum of two for those are perfectly fine. My suggestion was just meant to be a more accurate way of finding out which colors are the most popular ones. Say I have three boards with green caps then I would want to vote for green three times someone else has two yellow sets and a pink so they would vote for two yellow and one pink. Once we reach moq (we will ) then you add up the total for every color.
Just a suggestion but anyway you guys want to play this is fine by me!
oh okay. sorry.
well... technically, the color preference is "up to three colors". If you pick only one it means that you are interested in only that one (and I give that color a higher value)
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 17 December 2014, 03:04:02
My fear is that we reached the critical mass already.
Post by: Sygaldry on Wed, 17 December 2014, 03:18:11
quick status update. Just a couple more orders yesterday night (UTC), so we are still at 33%. Also color preference is unchanged.
My fear is that we reached the critical mass already.
I was guessing this would happen :(
Here's to hoping that a sudden influx of potential orders will miraculously come out of nowhere!
Post by: Bucake on Wed, 17 December 2014, 04:09:56
it saddens me. i really wanted those damn spacebars :D
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 17 December 2014, 17:22:21
MechanicalKeyboards called themselves out because the manufacturer doesn't give us ownership on the tooling. I'm still talking with MassDrop, I should have more news by the end of the week.
Post by: ideus on Wed, 17 December 2014, 17:38:19
The final numbers on this intent will provide some actual data on how many users of Topre keyboards are in the major boards dedicated to keyboards.
There are probably people who are participating even if they don't have one but are planning on it, since it isn't likely to happen again. (I am one).
Well, your testimony means there are in the pool actual Topre keyboard owners, and wannabes alike.
Post by: Polymer on Wed, 17 December 2014, 20:25:23
not many news unfortunately. We did less than 1% in the last 12h.
MechanicalKeyboards called themselves out because the manufacturer doesn't give us ownership on the tooling. I'm still talking with MassDrop, I should have more news by the end of the week.
Is there an extra amount necessary for them to give up ownership of the tooling?
Does it change numbers if there are only the black/white ones?
I'm all for colored ones...but since a vast majority of the Topre sets are black/white at least that would cover off a lot of them..even if it doesn't give us the joy of extra colors...
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 18 December 2014, 01:33:30
Is there an extra amount necessary for them to give up ownership of the tooling?
Does it change numbers if there are only the black/white ones?
yes, buying the tooling would be an option, but I would have to push the MOQ insanely higher. I'll try to contact more companies, it's incredible that no online shop is interested in taking at least 100 of these...
Post by: FrostyToast on Thu, 18 December 2014, 01:36:53
Is there an extra amount necessary for them to give up ownership of the tooling?
Does it change numbers if there are only the black/white ones?
yes, buying the tooling would be an option, but I would have to push the MOQ insanely higher. I'll try to contact more companies, it's incredible that no online shop is interested in taking at least 100 of these...
Not even EK? :eek:
I thought they would be all over getting more topre goodies.
Post by: MGH on Thu, 18 December 2014, 01:40:40
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 18 December 2014, 01:42:57
not many news unfortunately. We did less than 1% in the last 12h.
MechanicalKeyboards called themselves out because the manufacturer doesn't give us ownership on the tooling. I'm still talking with MassDrop, I should have more news by the end of the week.
Thanks for doing this, I am sure most Topre owners would like a PBT spacebar, we will get there just need to make sure everyone is aware of it.
Can't believe the stores are not interested in this....... EK what's going on?...
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 18 December 2014, 02:15:32
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 18 December 2014, 17:02:06
colors:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Blue]
[Purple]
[Green] [Pink]
[Orange]
[Beige]
[Lavender]
[Yellow]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Post by: ideus on Thu, 18 December 2014, 18:18:42
Is there an extra amount necessary for them to give up ownership of the tooling?
Does it change numbers if there are only the black/white ones?
yes, buying the tooling would be an option, but I would have to push the MOQ insanely higher. I'll try to contact more companies, it's incredible that no online shop is interested in taking at least 100 of these...
And what are their arguments for refuse to take them? There is no demand for Topre keys?
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 19 December 2014, 03:37:28
Post by: Chromako on Fri, 19 December 2014, 05:06:38
I'll take four, please!
Post by: oscillik on Fri, 19 December 2014, 07:14:29
Post by: strict on Fri, 19 December 2014, 07:33:10
they are interested but only if they hold the rights to the tooling...
I can't say I totally understand this logic. I'm surprised owning the tooling is a big enough issue to be a deal breaker. Just buy the ****ing spacebars and sell them, it doesn't need to be any more complicated than that.
Post by: Belfong on Fri, 19 December 2014, 08:53:17
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 19 December 2014, 09:07:15
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 19 December 2014, 11:31:54
they want to sell directly to topre (=reason why they want the rights on the tooling)
Greedy bastards.. :(
Post by: strict on Fri, 19 December 2014, 12:03:15
they want to sell directly to topre (=reason why they want the rights on the tooling)
i.e. Greed. They couldn't just be happy to participate and help bring a unique product to market that they could easily make some money on. I'll remember this **** the next time I consider placing an order from them or the next time they express interest in my future plate group buys ...
Post by: delidana on Fri, 19 December 2014, 17:49:11
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 19 December 2014, 18:19:02
they want to sell directly to topre (=reason why they want the rights on the tooling)
Greedy bastards.. :(
they want to sell directly to topre (=reason why they want the rights on the tooling)
i.e. Greed. They couldn't just be happy to participate and help bring a unique product to market that they could easily make some money on. I'll remember this **** the next time I consider placing an order from them or the next time they express interest in my future plate group buys ...
Yeah, that's ****ty. If you want the rights to the tooling, buy the tooling. If you want to sell merchandise in your shop, join this GB and help out. Why would you get to join a community-organized GB and keep the tooling from it? :facepalm:
Oh, and I've registered my interest. :thumb:
Also, Matt3o, if an individual user wanted to buy a large amount of these to help with MOQ, what quantity would be needed to help significantly? I don't remember a definitive MOQ being thrown around, but maybe I missed it. :)
Post by: ComradeSniper on Fri, 19 December 2014, 18:22:40
Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Yeah, what the ****, EK? Not cool :(
Post by: strict on Fri, 19 December 2014, 18:29:28
Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Yeah, what the ****, EK? Not cool :(
I'm pretty sure Matt3o said it was mechanicalkeyboards.com that dropped out over tooling ownership, not elitekeyboards.
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 19 December 2014, 18:30:34
Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Yeah, what the ****, EK? Not cool :(
I'm pretty sure Matt3o said it was mechanicalkeyboards.com that dropped out over tooling ownership, not elitekeyboards.
I haven't seen any mention of EK doing that, I believe it's MK. :thumb: Don't hate on EK!
Post by: delidana on Fri, 19 December 2014, 18:45:29
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 19 December 2014, 19:07:01
Don't hate on MK either please. We are talking serious money for this to even be done and a helluvalotta spacebars. From a business stand point, it makes no sense to buy 5000 spacebars if one cannot be sole distributor of them. Greed has nothing to do with our position. At the end of the day these are merely spacebars, and it appears that we all now know why Topre opted for ABS only all these years...sheer cost for tooling is cost prohibitive.Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Yeah, what the ****, EK? Not cool :(
I'm pretty sure Matt3o said it was mechanicalkeyboards.com that dropped out over tooling ownership, not elitekeyboards.
I haven't seen any mention of EK doing that, I believe it's MK. :thumb: Don't hate on EK!
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 19 December 2014, 19:20:38
You're dealing with a product so prohibitively expensive to produce that even Apple computer at it's former height could not stomach the cost. Are you guys really, truly surprised, even angry, to see the people working to put together this product trying to find ways to deal with the price? I think we could show a little gratitude that anyone anywhere is willing to take on such a risky product as this at all. They will be lucky to break even. If they make a profit it will not be very big at all. How much more "support for the community" could any company possibly offer? Do you expect them to be ok with hemorrhaging money just so you can have a better spacebar on your expensive keyboard?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 19 December 2014, 19:27:44
Don't hate on MK either please. We are talking serious money for this to even be done and a helluvalotta spacebars. From a business stand point, it makes no sense to buy 5000 spacebars if one cannot be sole distributor of them. Greed has nothing to do with our position. At the end of the day these are merely spacebars, and it appears that we all now know why Topre opted for ABS only all these years...sheer cost for tooling is cost prohibitive.Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Yeah, what the ****, EK? Not cool :(
I'm pretty sure Matt3o said it was mechanicalkeyboards.com that dropped out over tooling ownership, not elitekeyboards.
I haven't seen any mention of EK doing that, I believe it's MK. :thumb: Don't hate on EK!
The amount of spacebars required to purchase has been unclear since the beginning, so I didn't realize quite how prohibitive it would be. See below for my explanation on why I took offense to the comment. Sorry for jumping to conclusions and criticizing you guys.
Guys, seriously, calm down. We're not dealing with IBM here. IBM could make their keyboards with the most expensive methods possible, with the most complicated and expensive tooling possible, and still know with almost 100% certainty that they were going to make a massive profit. MechanicalKeyboards.com is not IBM. EliteKeyboards is not IBM. Hell, even Apple Computer circa 1990 was no IBM: their venerable keyboards of the time had all keys made from PBT except the spacebar.
You're dealing with a product so prohibitively expensive to produce that even Apple computer at it's former height could not stomach the cost. Are you guys really, truly surprised, even angry, to see the people working to put together this product trying to find ways to deal with the price? I think we could show a little gratitude that anyone anywhere is willing to take on such a risky product as this at all. They will be lucky to break even. If they make a profit it will not be very big at all. How much more "support for the community" could any company possibly offer? Do you expect them to be ok with hemorrhaging money just so you can have a better spacebar on your expensive keyboard?
Speaking for myself, I understand that it can be quite the undertaking and it's not greedy to not want to buy a bunch of a product just to help it succeed. It was the comment about needing to own the tooling that didn't sit well with me. A company that supports GBs does not get capital from the GB, so it was an odd requirement. If it had just been "we would need to buy too many of these to make it worth it" I wouldn't have questioned it at all.
Post by: phoenix1234 on Fri, 19 December 2014, 19:55:10
Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.IMO, it is not that bad. I don't mind if the space bar eventually appears on EK or MK shop.
It would more expensive but at least they took the risk of bunk delivery.
Post by: delidana on Fri, 19 December 2014, 19:57:46
Guys, seriously, calm down. We're not dealing with IBM here. IBM could make their keyboards with the most expensive methods possible, with the most complicated and expensive tooling possible, and still know with almost 100% certainty that they were going to make a massive profit. MechanicalKeyboards.com is not IBM. EliteKeyboards is not IBM. Hell, even Apple Computer circa 1990 was no IBM: their venerable keyboards of the time had all keys made from PBT except the spacebar.
You're dealing with a product so prohibitively expensive to produce that even Apple computer at it's former height could not stomach the cost. Are you guys really, truly surprised, even angry, to see the people working to put together this product trying to find ways to deal with the price? I think we could show a little gratitude that anyone anywhere is willing to take on such a risky product as this at all. They will be lucky to break even. If they make a profit it will not be very big at all. How much more "support for the community" could any company possibly offer? Do you expect them to be ok with hemorrhaging money just so you can have a better spacebar on your expensive keyboard?
What i meant with "support the community" was that instead of talking about rights and owning the tooling they could buy some spacebars and sell them, that would also make us reach MOQ.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Fri, 19 December 2014, 20:12:16
Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.Thumbs down for EK on this .. :( They should support the community and not just think about money and rights.
Yeah, what the ****, EK? Not cool :(
I'm pretty sure Matt3o said it was mechanicalkeyboards.com that dropped out over tooling ownership, not elitekeyboards.
I haven't seen any mention of EK doing that, I believe it's MK. :thumb: Don't hate on EK!
Oh geez, I'm sorry. I got confused :-[
Post by: ideus on Fri, 19 December 2014, 20:46:44
Post by: FrostyToast on Fri, 19 December 2014, 20:48:45
Dumb question: Can adapters for stems be developed that allow the use of any cherry PBT space bar? Molds for those could be cheaper and more people may be interested than in space bars only. I think I saw Matt working in one adapter for the main stem, another one be required for the stabilizers' stems. Again, it maybe just a dumb question.
Topre spacebars are 6x instead of 6.25
This would require first making some spacebars that almost no one would want to use on anything besides topre.
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 19 December 2014, 21:14:50
Post by: dante on Fri, 19 December 2014, 21:41:26
Post by: Polymer on Sat, 20 December 2014, 02:14:07
If the intent was so they could sell them to Topre then that is their own issue..but protecting their direct interests as far as stocking these items is more than reasonable...
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 20 December 2014, 02:18:13
I'm sorry if there has been some confusion, it's probably my fault that I wasn't able to explain this properly. Let me try to be completely transparent here.
MOQ
Few pages ago we discussed the MOQ. We need to sell AT LEAST 2000 spacebars. We are at 35% of the total right now. So @HoffmanMyster, there's a lot of road ahead. A significant amount is like 500 :)
Why 2000 if MK keeps saying 5000? Because my goal is to be able to reach $20K, which is how much we need to get this GB started. I don't care how many spacebars we end up with, the bottom line is that we need $20K.
This is not entirely true, because many will not confirm their order, others will change it. So to be safe this "purchase intent" should end up in the $24k range.
RESELLERS / DISTRIBUTORS / INVESTOR
I initially contacted 3 distributors. All three were interested in investing the whole $20k right away. This would let us start production immediately and I wouldn't be required to ship 2000 spacebars personally (which I would avoid if possible).
MechanicalKeyboards (EliteKeboards was never on the table) seemed very interested but dropped the ball when they knew that tooling ownership was not included. Do not blame them, please AND KEEP READING. MassDrop seems to be still on board, they are talking with the manufacturer to possibly reduce the MOQ or the unit price.
WHAT HAPPENS NOW
The purchase intent is mainly a "weapon" I have when contacting investors. "Hey look, there's a huge interest, wanna invest?". The more pre-sales the stronger my point.
If all the EXCLUSIVE distributor drop out, there's still one possibility: finding NOT-EXCLUSIVE resellers. Meaning trying to find 4 or 5 shops interested in buying 1000-1500 spacebars each. The early birds (those who participated in the purchase intent) would get a discount or some kind of benefit and they could decide from which reseller to buy their spacebars.
MechanicalKeyboard might not be able to take the whole investment, but they could still be available at buying 1000 (or more) spacebars.
WHAT IF ALL OF THE ABOVE FAILS
At that point I have to personally collect the money and ship all the spacebars hoping in the help of some member of the community. BUT we need at least $24k. Also, I don't know how it works in other countries but here I cannot move $24k without paperworks. I need in and out invoices, I need to register everything and pay taxes if there's even $1 earning.
Hope everything's clear now.
Post by: Bucake on Sat, 20 December 2014, 02:39:53
solid post!
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 20 December 2014, 02:41:06
Post by: strict on Sat, 20 December 2014, 05:54:25
Here's hoping MD is able to work out an agreement with BSP!
Post by: dante on Sat, 20 December 2014, 08:56:29
That seems like an awful lot of work and risk for something so small as a space bar. And I can't imagine the effort of one person to ship 2,000 space bars. Thank you for even trying Matt3o. This IS truly a Herculean effort.
has EK even sold 2,000 Topres??
Post by: crazystu on Sat, 20 December 2014, 20:43:46
Has anyone attempted to contact Topre Corp/PFU/Leopold to ask if they'd be interested in helping out this group buy?
(Surely they'd be the most interested, as the space bar is for their keyboards only! Leopold have already made PBT spacebars with weird stem placing).
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sat, 20 December 2014, 22:11:31
I think everyone should have respect for MechanicalKeyboards.com for even considering doing this.
Has anyone attempted to contact Topre Corp/PFU/Leopold to ask if they'd be interested in helping out this group buy?
(Surely they'd be the most interested, as the space bar is for their keyboards only! Leopold have already made PBT spacebars with weird stem placing).
If they were interested they'd have made their own long ago. The keyboard enthusiast community makes up a pretty negligible portion of their customer base.
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 21 December 2014, 02:04:04
color preference:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Red]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Blue]
[Purple]
[Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Lavender]
[Brown]
[Magenta]
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sun, 21 December 2014, 04:11:13
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 21 December 2014, 04:24:21
Is there any chance something like Massdrop could take this on? That might get a few more orders.
we are talking with MD about that
Post by: bowji on Sun, 21 December 2014, 08:17:48
Im not sure if someone suggested this but just a food for thought.. IF this doesnt work out how about the idea of a bundle with 6x pbt mx spacebar + mx compatible topre sliders + stabilizers? I know this will require modding and wont be as easy as just pull n plug but it is an alternative to abs spacebars. IIRC the sliders are on shapeways and SP has molds for 6x mx spacebars[?].
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sun, 21 December 2014, 15:13:08
Massdrop seems like our best bet.
Im not sure if someone suggested this but just a food for thought.. IF this doesnt work out how about the idea of a bundle with 6x pbt mx spacebar + mx compatible topre sliders + stabilizers? I know this will require modding and wont be as easy as just pull n plug but it is an alternative to abs spacebars. IIRC the sliders are on shapeways and SP has molds for 6x mx spacebars[?].
This wouldn't work. As mentioned previously, topre uses a different size space bar than MX boards do. Even with an MX compatible stem the spacebar would be useless.
Post by: FrostyToast on Sun, 21 December 2014, 15:29:14
Massdrop seems like our best bet.
Im not sure if someone suggested this but just a food for thought.. IF this doesnt work out how about the idea of a bundle with 6x pbt mx spacebar + mx compatible topre sliders + stabilizers? I know this will require modding and wont be as easy as just pull n plug but it is an alternative to abs spacebars. IIRC the sliders are on shapeways and SP has molds for 6x mx spacebars[?].
This wouldn't work. As mentioned previously, topre uses a different size space bar than MX boards do. Even with an MX compatible stem the spacebar would be useless.
Well what he is actually wondering is if we can somehow use signature plastics spacebars instead and make them compatible with mx sliders. Sure, they would be useless on MX boards, but he only wants this for a lower moq.
That being said, it's still a bad idea. It would cost even more to get the sliders and we would be going backwards.
Post by: bowji on Mon, 22 December 2014, 01:04:51
Well what he is actually wondering is if we can somehow use signature plastics spacebars instead and make them compatible with mx sliders. Sure, they would be useless on MX boards, but he only wants this for a lower moq.
That being said, it's still a bad idea. It would cost even more to get the sliders and we would be going backwards.
If Im not mistaken, the sliders are on shapeways already from Matt3o. So its the stabilizers that may be an issue...
But again this was just an idea ;)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 22 December 2014, 02:26:12
I thought we could move before the holidays, but it doesn't seem the case.
Post by: Sencha on Mon, 22 December 2014, 15:17:48
Post by: wiredPANDA on Mon, 22 December 2014, 18:39:09
I'm playing catch-up on GH. Haven't been online in a couple months.
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 23 December 2014, 02:01:03
We are at 37%
Color preference changed a bit
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Blue] [Red]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Purple]
[Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Lavender]
[Brown] [Magenta]Community impact also changed. Basically geekhack alone is 50%, reddit and deskthority 20% each, then the others.
On Monday Jan 5th, I'll contact all the resellers I could think of (please help me make a list), it is clear at this point that we can't proceed our own, but if we find 4-5 resellers willing to buy 1000 each we could still have our spacebar done!
If by January 16 I'm not able to get this sorted out, I will throw the towel and declare myself beaten!
Please keep ordering!
Post by: Sygaldry on Tue, 23 December 2014, 02:29:29
We had some new orders yesterday.
We are at 37%
Color preference changed a bitCode: [Select][Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Blue] [Red]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Purple]
[Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Lavender]
[Brown] [Magenta]
Community impact also changed. Basically geekhack alone is 50%, reddit and deskthority 20% each, then the others.
On Monday Jan 5th, I'll contact all the resellers I could think of (please help me make a list), it is clear at this point that we can't proceed our own, but if we find 4-5 resellers willing to buy 1000 each we could still have our spacebar done!
If by January 16 I'm not able to get this sorted out, I will throw the towel and declare myself beaten!
Please keep ordering!
Well as to resellers, there are the widely known ones: MK, EK, Zeal, Pexon, CtrlAlt, Originative (sketchy, I know), keypop, techkeys, IMSTO, Qtan, Mechkb, keyboardco, etc. etc.
I'm sure there are hundreds more out there that I don't know of though.
Post by: Macsmasher on Tue, 23 December 2014, 07:08:10
Post by: swill on Tue, 23 December 2014, 10:53:12
Wasd doesn't do Topre at all do they?We had some new orders yesterday.
We are at 37%
Color preference changed a bitCode: [Select][Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Blue] [Red]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Purple]
[Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Lavender]
[Brown] [Magenta]
Community impact also changed. Basically geekhack alone is 50%, reddit and deskthority 20% each, then the others.
On Monday Jan 5th, I'll contact all the resellers I could think of (please help me make a list), it is clear at this point that we can't proceed our own, but if we find 4-5 resellers willing to buy 1000 each we could still have our spacebar done!
If by January 16 I'm not able to get this sorted out, I will throw the towel and declare myself beaten!
Please keep ordering!
Well as to resellers, there are the widely known ones: MK, EK, Zeal, Pexon, CtrlAlt, Originative (sketchy, I know), keypop, techkeys, IMSTO, Qtan, Mechkb, keyboardco, etc. etc.
I'm sure there are hundreds more out there that I don't know of though.
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 23 December 2014, 11:01:44
Wasd doesn't do Topre at all do they?We had some new orders yesterday.
We are at 37%
Color preference changed a bitCode: [Select][Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Blue] [Red]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Purple]
[Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Lavender]
[Brown] [Magenta]
Community impact also changed. Basically geekhack alone is 50%, reddit and deskthority 20% each, then the others.
On Monday Jan 5th, I'll contact all the resellers I could think of (please help me make a list), it is clear at this point that we can't proceed our own, but if we find 4-5 resellers willing to buy 1000 each we could still have our spacebar done!
If by January 16 I'm not able to get this sorted out, I will throw the towel and declare myself beaten!
Please keep ordering!
Well as to resellers, there are the widely known ones: MK, EK, Zeal, Pexon, CtrlAlt, Originative (sketchy, I know), keypop, techkeys, IMSTO, Qtan, Mechkb, keyboardco, etc. etc.
I'm sure there are hundreds more out there that I don't know of though.
Sadly they don't.
Post by: Sygaldry on Tue, 23 December 2014, 14:28:29
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Tue, 23 December 2014, 14:49:56
Post by: byker on Tue, 23 December 2014, 15:10:38
Interestingly enough, it looks like SP is working on getting Topre tooling (but I'm not sure if this will mean they will be able to match Topre profile which is ever so slightly higher than Cherry profile).
I sent them an email a few months ago, and they said that they were looking at getting topre tooling by the middle of next year.
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 23 December 2014, 17:33:35
So, I don't know if this falls under some kind of trade secret, but just how do you work with PBT for keycaps anyway? If it has to get so hot and tends to shrink so much when cooling (kind of an obvious side effect) then what sort of tooling can even get around that? How? I wish I could understand what exactly costs so much here a bit better than the vague "it's hard to work with PBT" understanding I have now.
PBT spacebars already exists, it's just a matter of making it right :)
Interestingly enough, it looks like SP is working on getting Topre tooling (but I'm not sure if this will mean they will be able to match Topre profile which is ever so slightly higher than Cherry profile).
don't hold your breath :) and anyway it would DCS with topre stems.
Post by: Sturmfrau on Tue, 23 December 2014, 22:53:36
filled up!
2x grey
2x white
Post by: Vizir on Wed, 24 December 2014, 01:11:24
No DSA? I was hoping that they'd have both options.So, I don't know if this falls under some kind of trade secret, but just how do you work with PBT for keycaps anyway? If it has to get so hot and tends to shrink so much when cooling (kind of an obvious side effect) then what sort of tooling can even get around that? How? I wish I could understand what exactly costs so much here a bit better than the vague "it's hard to work with PBT" understanding I have now.
PBT spacebars already exists, it's just a matter of making it right :)Interestingly enough, it looks like SP is working on getting Topre tooling (but I'm not sure if this will mean they will be able to match Topre profile which is ever so slightly higher than Cherry profile).
don't hold your breath :) and anyway it would DCS with topre stems.
Post by: WiNloSt on Wed, 24 December 2014, 01:43:05
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 24 December 2014, 02:31:43
After reading through this thread I still have a question. I think I saw somewhere that you said black and white spacebar does not sell in pack does this imply that we can order 1 black and 1 white spacebar? But again, in the form, it says minimum order is 2 for both black and white spacebar. So my questions is can I order only 1 space bar? If it's not and the minimum order is 2 so can I order 1 for each black and white spacebar? Thank you.
no, sorry at the moment the minimum quantity per color (black and white) is 2. It may change when we switch to the actual group buy, but not now.
I said that they are not sold in pack because you can actually buy 3 spacebars (if you write q.ty 3 you get 3 spacebars, not 6 in packs of 2).
Post by: korrelate on Wed, 24 December 2014, 02:32:17
DG = Dark Grey
Question 1:
"only the top three colors produced" =>
(A) The three colors available in this GB are: DG, White + 1 of the candidates or..
(B) The colors available in this GB are: DG, White + The Top Three candidates?
Question 2:
If I order a pack of three do I receive:
(A) 1 DG, 1 W + 1 of the Top Candidate
(B) no DG, no W + one each of the Top Three candidates.
Question 3:
of the candidates, is medium grey = 10th Anniv. grey?
Cheers,
K
Post by: WiNloSt on Wed, 24 December 2014, 02:49:50
no, sorry at the moment the minimum quantity per color (black and white) is 2. It may change when we switch to the actual group buy, but not now.Ok that really clears things up. Thank you.
I said that they are not sold in pack because you can actually buy 3 spacebars (if you write q.ty 3 you get 3 spacebars, not 6 in packs of 2).
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 24 December 2014, 02:56:24
"only the top three colors produced" =>
(A) The three colors available in this GB are: DG, White + 1 of the candidates or..
(B) The colors available in this GB are: DG, White + The Top Three candidates?
White + Black + 3 colors
Question 2:
If I order a pack of three do I receive:
(A) 1 DG, 1 W + 1 of the Top Candidate
(B) no DG, no W + one each of the Top Three candidates.
Pack of 3 = top 3 colors from the poll, you get no white or black.
Question 3:
of the candidates, is medium grey = 10th Anniv. grey?
The color is not color matched, because color matching is expensive. We may try to go close, but it's not guaranteed. Only white and black (dark gray) are color matched.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 24 December 2014, 14:58:42
So, I don't know if this falls under some kind of trade secret, but just how do you work with PBT for keycaps anyway? If it has to get so hot and tends to shrink so much when cooling (kind of an obvious side effect) then what sort of tooling can even get around that? How? I wish I could understand what exactly costs so much here a bit better than the vague "it's hard to work with PBT" understanding I have now.
PBT spacebars already exists, it's just a matter of making it right :)
I am aware that there are PBT spacebars. I have a Model M with one right beside me. I'm just curious as to what the actual engineering difficulties of making one are.
Post by: Smasher816 on Wed, 24 December 2014, 15:05:00
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 24 December 2014, 15:38:29
They warp easily (more so then smaller keys as they are so long) which is hard to account for in mass production. This often means that people have to pull out a hairdryer and bend it back to being strait. However, that isn't really feasible to do for thousands of bars.
My, I'm not asking this well. I know this. I'm curious as to how this is gotten around on an industrial scale. How are these spacebars made so that they didn't warp? How did IBM do it (presumably Unicomp uses the same method)? What sort of tooling do you actually need?
Post by: FrostyToast on Wed, 24 December 2014, 16:04:48
They warp easily (more so then smaller keys as they are so long) which is hard to account for in mass production. This often means that people have to pull out a hairdryer and bend it back to being strait. However, that isn't really feasible to do for thousands of bars.
My, I'm not asking this well. I know this. I'm curious as to how this is gotten around on an industrial scale. How are these spacebars made so that they didn't warp? How did IBM do it (presumably Unicomp uses the same method)? What sort of tooling do you actually need?
I believe one of he solutions is to make the larger caps thicker so it can't warp as easily.
Post by: breaker9691 on Thu, 25 December 2014, 10:55:46
Post by: nukec on Fri, 26 December 2014, 10:47:41
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 26 December 2014, 11:01:21
Color preferences changed again, with Purple going really strong!
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray]
[Sky Blue/Light Blue]
[Purple] [Red]
[Blue]
[Mint/Light Green]
[Green]
[Pink]
[Orange]
[Lavender]
[Beige]
[Yellow]
[Magenta]
[Brown]
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 26 December 2014, 19:10:44
Post by: ideus on Fri, 26 December 2014, 19:14:53
How many is 40%? 2000 spacebars?
I think 40% equals 800 space bars, as 100% is precisely 2000, which is the goal of this intent exercise.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 26 December 2014, 19:15:36
How many is 40%? 2000 spacebars?
I think 40% equals 800 space bars, as 100% is precisely 2000, which is the goal of this intent exercise.
Ah. I thought we were aiming for 5000.
Post by: sorijealut on Sat, 27 December 2014, 10:30:33
Post by: swill on Sat, 27 December 2014, 12:39:38
Post by: colomb on Sat, 27 December 2014, 14:49:34
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Mon, 29 December 2014, 15:38:41
So, I don't know if this falls under some kind of trade secret, but just how do you work with PBT for keycaps anyway? If it has to get so hot and tends to shrink so much when cooling (kind of an obvious side effect) then what sort of tooling can even get around that? How? I wish I could understand what exactly costs so much here a bit better than the vague "it's hard to work with PBT" understanding I have now.
I do not have experience working with PBT on an industrial scale (just some lab work), but I do have experience working with various other polymers, so my only insight is general concepts and ideas. :thumb:
-The shrinking could be affected by the rate of cooling, so making the caps under "standard" cooling conditions that would be applicable to ABS may present issues that need to be fixed for PBT. This should just be a hurdle and not a show-stopper.
-FrostyToast mentioned making the caps thicker so that they are less able to warp. This might help, but I don't think SP has a huge ability to do this without incurring huge costs, so maybe they can't at the moment. And sometimes making things thicker actually hurts the evenness of cooling, so maybe that's not the solution after all (I haven't tested this obviously :P )
-PBT is not a copolymer, so there aren't ratios in the blend to play with, but maybe their supplier adds additives to the resin pellets? Playing with those could change behaviour.
-Processing temperatures, times, and even colour (additive) can affect the cure behaviour of polymers.
-Some techniques like this are not well-documented, and just because "we" (a company) were able to do it before does *not* mean that the knowledge is still around to do it again. Until recently, many manufacturing plants would hand-write knowledge or the operators would just *remember* it. So it was much easier to lose the knowledge.
I obviously don't intend for this post to serve as an actual answer to your questions, but hopefully it highlights some potential issues that they may have come across, to help you think about what might be going on. Or maybe it's a big waste. ^.^
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 29 December 2014, 17:38:29
Anyway we are at 41% now. As I said next monday I will contact more retailers to see if they are interested.
The following is the current color preference with actual number of votes. Please note that if you ordered --say-- 3 color packs your vote counts 3 towards your selected colors.
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray] => 43
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 36
[Red] => 35
[Blue] => 33
[Purple] => 32
[Mint/Light Green] => 30
[Pink] => 25
[Green] => 24
[Orange] => 23
[Lavender] => 17
[Beige] => 13
[Yellow] => 11
[Magenta] => 9
[Brown] => 4
Post by: sike on Wed, 31 December 2014, 20:18:45
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 31 December 2014, 20:49:51
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 01 January 2015, 02:57:26
Colors:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray] => 43
[Red] => 37
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 37
[Blue] => 32
[Purple] => 32
[Mint/Light Green] => 30
[Green] => 25
[Pink] => 25
[Orange] => 25
[Lavender] => 18
[Beige] => 13
[Yellow] => 11
[Magenta] => 9
[Brown] => 4
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 01 January 2015, 16:46:21
Post by: Sent on Sat, 03 January 2015, 00:19:47
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 03 January 2015, 05:22:34
Colors:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray] => 45
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 39
[Red] => 38
[Purple] => 32
[Blue] => 32
[Mint/Light Green] => 30
[Pink] => 26
[Orange] => 25
[Green] => 25
[Lavender] => 19
[Beige] => 14
[Yellow] => 11
[Magenta] => 10
[Brown] => 4
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sat, 03 January 2015, 14:19:44
Post by: Sygaldry on Sat, 03 January 2015, 15:22:11
At this rate of progress this will take months.No. This will be over this month (I believe Matt3o mentioned keeping this open to the middle of January). Either we reach the goal or we fail and the GB returns to oblivion.
As much as this would be amazing, it's starting to seem very unlikely this will happen :'(
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 03 January 2015, 16:35:17
Post by: intelli78 on Sat, 03 January 2015, 16:42:40
These numbers are surprising and discouraging... for all the whining about Topre ABS spacebars... :'(
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 03 January 2015, 16:49:57
Can you clarify what is the target (in terms of % and #) that will set the GB in motion? 100%? 5000 spacebars? There have been a lot of numbers discussed, not sure what is the current goal.
These numbers are surprising and discouraging... for all the whining about Topre ABS spacebars... :'(
it's all here https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=66623.msg1567644#msg1567644
Post by: intelli78 on Sat, 03 January 2015, 17:04:01
How about an email blast to everyone who has signed up, asking for people to double orders, or at least add as much as possible? I know I would at least double mine and I'm sure there are lots of other people who would do. If we could get it up to the 75% range, the end will be in sight. Email blasts are an effective way to reach people, especially when they have a vested interest like this GB.
Of course it may not be needed if you think the online retailer route will work.
Post by: abjr on Sat, 03 January 2015, 17:40:02
Ok, thanks. So we are 42% of the way to 2000, which is the bare minimum to start the buy.
So that's about ~840 spacebars with ~1200 more to go. Earlier Matt3o had mentioned something about getting 4-5 vendors to buy 1000-1500 each, but why would they need to buy so many? Why not try to get them to pick up the slack on the remaining ~1200? I guess shipping 840 spacebars would still suck so you are trying to get the vendors to purchase the entire production run?
Out of curiosity, how much does the tooling cost to "own"? And what do you get for owning the tooling ... some kind of physical mold or or just IP rights on the design?
Post by: nukec on Sat, 03 January 2015, 21:04:14
Post by: sorijealut on Sat, 03 January 2015, 21:33:01
Post by: redskull on Sat, 03 January 2015, 21:47:09
Post by: zentic on Sat, 03 January 2015, 22:42:01
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 04 January 2015, 02:14:29
So that's about ~840 spacebars with ~1200 more to go. Earlier Matt3o had mentioned something about getting 4-5 vendors to buy 1000-1500 each, but why would they need to buy so many? Why not try to get them to pick up the slack on the remaining ~1200? I guess shipping 840 spacebars would still suck so you are trying to get the vendors to purchase the entire production run?
it's a very restricted marked I can't take away 1000 orders from the vendors that are investing $20k to make this happen. They would end up with a very slow ROI.
Out of curiosity, how much does the tooling cost to "own"? And what do you get for owning the tooling ... some kind of physical mold or or just IP rights on the design?
I seem to recall that ownership of the tooling would be an additional $10k. It's exclusive usage on the tool, not IP rights on the design (since the design it's not ours).
why not ask the vendors to buy up all 2000 spacebars, while we 'pledge' to buy from them later on with a fix fair profit on top?
same as above. Also, shipping 1000 spacebars all over the world is quite a task. It also means to have at least 1100 spacebars at hand to handle lost packages and production errors. Anyway if I can find 2 or three proxies it's still doable.
Looks great! i'm interested in this because I have a hhkb and a realforce. Is there a color which matches the space bar on Realforce 104UB-DK which more of an off grey?
I'll check on this. Thanks for the heads up. Color matching is expensive, at the moment the price is fixed with 2 colors matched. If I can find some sponsors maybe I could add a third.
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 04 January 2015, 02:15:02
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 05 January 2015, 02:29:57
Honestly it's a hell lot of spacebars for a community based project, I would be pretty shocked if a vendor wouldn't want to join the wagon. Anyway today I will be sending out a dozen emails and also will talk again with MassDrop.
I'll keep you posted.
Color preference so far:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray] => 48
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 43
[Red] => 42
[Blue] => 34
[Purple] => 34
[Mint/Light Green] => 33
[Green] => 27
[Orange] => 27
[Pink] => 26
[Lavender] => 22
[Beige] => 14
[Yellow] => 12
[Magenta] => 11
[Brown] => 4
Post by: byker on Mon, 05 January 2015, 02:41:40
We are at 45%
Honestly it's a hell lot of spacebars for a community based project, I would be pretty shocked if a vendor wouldn't want to join the wagon. Anyway today I will be sending out a dozen emails and also will talk again with MassDrop.
I'll keep you posted.
Color preference so far:Code: [Select][Medium gray] => 48
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 43
[Red] => 42
[Blue] => 34
[Purple] => 34
[Mint/Light Green] => 33
[Green] => 27
[Orange] => 27
[Pink] => 26
[Lavender] => 22
[Beige] => 14
[Yellow] => 12
[Magenta] => 11
[Brown] => 4
Thanks for all of your work in this Matt3o. Excited to hear back regarding vendors getting involved.
Post by: Simplicity on Mon, 05 January 2015, 02:47:51
We are at 45%
Honestly it's a hell lot of spacebars for a community based project, I would be pretty shocked if a vendor wouldn't want to join the wagon. Anyway today I will be sending out a dozen emails and also will talk again with MassDrop.
I'll keep you posted.
Color preference so far:Code: [Select][Medium gray] => 48
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 43
[Red] => 42
[Blue] => 34
[Purple] => 34
[Mint/Light Green] => 33
[Green] => 27
[Orange] => 27
[Pink] => 26
[Lavender] => 22
[Beige] => 14
[Yellow] => 12
[Magenta] => 11
[Brown] => 4
Awesome work you're doing Matt3o. Just curious would the medium gray option be similar to the colors of the modifiers found on the stock white HHKBs?
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 05 January 2015, 03:02:55
Post by: exitfire401 on Mon, 05 January 2015, 03:32:32
Post by: 00zeRO on Mon, 05 January 2015, 09:51:37
I seem to recall that ownership of the tooling would be an additional $10k. It's exclusive usage on the tool, not IP rights on the design (since the design it's not ours).
$15k...dear sir
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 05 January 2015, 10:19:32
Post by: 00zeRO on Mon, 05 January 2015, 10:21:23
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 05 January 2015, 11:10:37
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:14:05
They all turned down. I'm still waiting reply from a couple of stores. I'll keep you posted.
Post by: FrostyToast on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:18:26
We need to keep posting this to Reddit! It keeps dropping off the front page but with a user base of 500000+ we're really missing out on what could be our last chance of making it to 100%!
Reddit is comprised of mostly kids with very little expendable income who would for one, not buy boards as expensive as topre. At least, most of them would not dare to. There is also the fact that many of them don't care about customizing boards with expensive caps. This is partly why their contribution is so low.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:25:18
So, I don't know if this falls under some kind of trade secret, but just how do you work with PBT for keycaps anyway? If it has to get so hot and tends to shrink so much when cooling (kind of an obvious side effect) then what sort of tooling can even get around that? How? I wish I could understand what exactly costs so much here a bit better than the vague "it's hard to work with PBT" understanding I have now.
I do not have experience working with PBT on an industrial scale (just some lab work), but I do have experience working with various other polymers, so my only insight is general concepts and ideas. :thumb:
-The shrinking could be affected by the rate of cooling, so making the caps under "standard" cooling conditions that would be applicable to ABS may present issues that need to be fixed for PBT. This should just be a hurdle and not a show-stopper.
-FrostyToast mentioned making the caps thicker so that they are less able to warp. This might help, but I don't think SP has a huge ability to do this without incurring huge costs, so maybe they can't at the moment. And sometimes making things thicker actually hurts the evenness of cooling, so maybe that's not the solution after all (I haven't tested this obviously :P )
-PBT is not a copolymer, so there aren't ratios in the blend to play with, but maybe their supplier adds additives to the resin pellets? Playing with those could change behaviour.
-Processing temperatures, times, and even colour (additive) can affect the cure behaviour of polymers.
-Some techniques like this are not well-documented, and just because "we" (a company) were able to do it before does *not* mean that the knowledge is still around to do it again. Until recently, many manufacturing plants would hand-write knowledge or the operators would just *remember* it. So it was much easier to lose the knowledge.
I obviously don't intend for this post to serve as an actual answer to your questions, but hopefully it highlights some potential issues that they may have come across, to help you think about what might be going on. Or maybe it's a big waste. ^.^
In addition to this, I think that temperature or humidity plays a factor in the molding process. IMSTO has said in the past he can't shoot PBT caps in the summer because his factory is too hot or humid. I wonder if PBT is hygroscopic and that hinders the molding process or cooling process. Or if it's affected by heat and the temperature messes with the processes. I think Hoff would have a better idea about this than I do.
And to answer your question about how PBT is molded into caps. The process can be simplified like this:
1) PBT resin pellets are fed into an injection molding machine
2) Injection molding machine melts the PBT pellets into a goo which is shot into a mold of a keycap
3) Keycaps cool in the mold
4) Keycaps come out of the mold
5) Caps then go through secondary processing such as dye-subbing, pad-printing, or lasering to get legends.
There are obviously a lot of factors and PBT isn't just one single material; there can be different formulations. There can be additives which affect processing. So think of this like colas. There's Pepsi and Coke and other colas. They are all cola soft drinks but they different slightly in their formulation. Polymers are the same way. There are many flavors and formulations of ABS or PBT
I should order a few to help ya'll out but I'm worried about the resale. I have no interest in Topre but I think this is a cool project.
Post by: Sygaldry on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:26:55
We need to keep posting this to Reddit! It keeps dropping off the front page but with a user base of 500000+ we're really missing out on what could be our last chance of making it to 100%!
Reddit is comprised of mostly kids with very little expendable income who would for one, not buy boards as expensive as topre. At least, most of them would not dare to. There is also the fact that many of them don't care about customizing boards with expensive caps. This is partly why their contribution is so low.
The % jumped by 3 after re-posting it for one day (when the post left the front page of the subreddit, the contributions stopped). There are a lot of financially responsible adults that quickly browse reddit briefly each day but don't bother to dig any further than the front page of their subs.
I'm sure if it was continuously posted the front page of /r/MK or if it was stickied to the top of the page, the total contribution from Reddit would be phenomenal. Reddit might have a large population of kids but the population base is 10 times or more than GH. If we can just tap into the casual adult redditer that skims the front pages of their subs, then this might become a possibility.
In any case, it doesn't look like we have any other options =/
Post by: 00zeRO on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:46:07
I should order a few to help ya'll out but I'm worried about the resale. I have no interest in Topre but I think this is a cool project.
Maybe we can do this:
Anyone want to fill aswimming pool[hot tub] withAlps keycaps[Topre spacebars] with me? :))
:p
Post by: CPTBadAss on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:50:56
Maybe we can do this:Anyone want to fill aswimming pool[hot tub] withAlps keycaps[Topre spacebars] with me? :))
:p
I would never say that. I hate hot tubs :(.
Post by: FrostyToast on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:56:44
Maybe we can do this:Anyone want to fill aswimming pool[hot tub] withAlps keycaps[Topre spacebars] with me? :))
:p
I would never say that. I hate hot tubs :(.
We'll make it purple.
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 06 January 2015, 13:57:04
Maybe we can do this:Anyone want to fill aswimming pool[hot tub] withAlps keycaps[Topre spacebars] with me? :))
:p
I would never say that. I hate hot tubs :(.
And think of the warping!! :eek:
Post by: 00zeRO on Tue, 06 January 2015, 15:02:41
Okay, large cold kiddie pool...Maybe we can do this:Anyone want to fill aswimming pool[hot tub] withAlps keycaps[Topre spacebars] with me? :))
I would never say that. I hate hot tubs :(.
Post by: ctbear on Tue, 06 January 2015, 16:47:31
Post by: exitfire401 on Tue, 06 January 2015, 16:50:42
I am interested in at least 2 space bars. Do I fill in the 'purchase intent' form in OP?
Correct
Post by: ctbear on Tue, 06 January 2015, 17:02:00
I am interested in at least 2 space bars. Do I fill in the 'purchase intent' form in OP?
Correct
Thanks, filled. Hope this happens!
Post by: swill on Tue, 06 January 2015, 18:27:44
So far, no luck.I was waiting till you contacted all the vendors, but maybe you could contact widebasket on ebay. He sells a bunch of Topre caps and may pick up a few hundred.
They all turned down. I'm still waiting reply from a couple of stores. I'll keep you posted.
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 07 January 2015, 08:00:10
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray] => 50
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 45
[Red] => 44
[Blue] => 35
[Purple] => 35
[Mint/Light Green] => 33
[Orange] => 29
[Green] => 27
[Pink] => 26
[Lavender] => 22
[Beige] => 15
[Yellow] => 12
[Magenta] => 11
[Brown] => 4I'm still waiting for a reply from EK.
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 07 January 2015, 10:40:08
So far, no luck.I was waiting till you contacted all the vendors, but maybe you could contact widebasket on ebay. He sells a bunch of Topre caps and may pick up a few hundred.
They all turned down. I'm still waiting reply from a couple of stores. I'll keep you posted.
Did you try this 'widebasket' fellow, Matt3o?
Post by: sorijealut on Wed, 07 January 2015, 12:15:53
We are at 47%Code: [Select][Medium gray] => 50
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 45
[Red] => 44
[Blue] => 35
[Purple] => 35
[Mint/Light Green] => 33
[Orange] => 29
[Green] => 27
[Pink] => 26
[Lavender] => 22
[Beige] => 15
[Yellow] => 12
[Magenta] => 11
[Brown] => 4
I'm still waiting for a reply from EK.
It would be such a natural pick up from EK. They already carry so manu Topre accessories.
Post by: strict on Wed, 07 January 2015, 12:27:33
It would be such a natural pick up from EK. They already carry so manu Topre accessories.
Totally agree, of all places I would think EK would be one of the most likely. I thought I read somewhere that they are the exclusive vendor in North America for Realforce and HHKB boards?
Though it may not be that straight forward. Who knows how many replacement ABS spacebars they sell, it might be a fairly lucrative item for them and selling people PBT spacebars might mean less people returning to buy more since they don't shine up nearly as fast.
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 07 January 2015, 13:09:44
It would be such a natural pick up from EK. They already carry so manu Topre accessories.
Totally agree, of all places I would think EK would be one of the most likely. I thought I read somewhere that they are the exclusive vendor in North America for Realforce and HHKB boards?
at the moment...this is true...but it may not be the case forever...
Post by: Sygaldry on Wed, 07 January 2015, 15:35:44
It would be such a natural pick up from EK. They already carry so manu Topre accessories.
Totally agree, of all places I would think EK would be one of the most likely. I thought I read somewhere that they are the exclusive vendor in North America for Realforce and HHKB boards?
at the moment...this is true...but it may not be the case forever...
Hmmm... can this be interpreted as MK working to distribute more Topre boards!?
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Thu, 08 January 2015, 17:04:20
It would be such a natural pick up from EK. They already carry so manu Topre accessories.
Totally agree, of all places I would think EK would be one of the most likely. I thought I read somewhere that they are the exclusive vendor in North America for Realforce and HHKB boards?
at the moment...this is true...but it may not be the case forever...
Hmmm... can this be interpreted as MK working to distribute more Topre boards!?
I'm sure they'd want to, but that doesn't mean they actually can or will.
Post by: Sygaldry on Thu, 08 January 2015, 23:56:02
It would be such a natural pick up from EK. They already carry so manu Topre accessories.
Totally agree, of all places I would think EK would be one of the most likely. I thought I read somewhere that they are the exclusive vendor in North America for Realforce and HHKB boards?
at the moment...this is true...but it may not be the case forever...
Hmmm... can this be interpreted as MK working to distribute more Topre boards!?
I'm sure they'd want to, but that doesn't mean they actually can or will.
Yep. Which is why I asked if MK.com was working on doing so instead of asking if they were going to be doing so.
Looking at the FC660C, EK has indefinitely ceased stocking the board. If they stopped distributing the FC660C due to contractual reasons, there is a chance that this might be because their distribution agreement with Leopold expired. Further, Leopold is a distributor of Realforce boards. If MK were to somehow manage to close a distribution agreement with Leopold, it could possibly mean another distribution channel for Realforce boards into the US as well as the return of the FC660C to the US marketplace.
Of course, if EK simply lost interest in the FC660C or if Leopold is simply refusing to supply EK with FC660Cs to sell, then my considerations are moot.
Nonetheless, I do wish Topre boards were more available in the US. It was actually cheaper for me to buy an HHKB Type-S directly from PFU and get it shipped to the US than it would have cost me to buy a non-Type-S from EK (even while it was on sale).
On a side note, MK did pick up the Type Heaven after EK dropped it - which is why I was wondering if MK was working on getting more Topre flavors.
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 09 January 2015, 01:39:39
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Post by: exitfire401 on Fri, 09 January 2015, 01:43:28
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Even if it doesn't go through, thanks again for taking the time out to try.
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 09 January 2015, 11:39:48
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
The one thing BSP has going for them is thick PBT in any color...that will be helpful going forward, although they can't dyesub :-X
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Fri, 09 January 2015, 11:42:19
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.BSP even having spacebar molds is news to me..
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Post by: strict on Fri, 09 January 2015, 11:45:32
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Even if it doesn't go through, thanks again for taking the time out to try.
+1
You're a saint for taking on an endeavour as monumental as this. Thanks for all your hard work, Matt3o!
Post by: Bucake on Fri, 09 January 2015, 15:36:55
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Even if it doesn't go through, thanks again for taking the time out to try.
+1
thanks a ton for the effort Matt3o : )
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 09 January 2015, 15:58:45
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Even if it doesn't go through, thanks again for taking the time out to try.
+1
thanks a ton for the effort Matt3o : )
^ I'm with these guys...thanks Matt3o.
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 09 January 2015, 18:14:18
at this point I'd say that retailers are not interested in this venture. The MOQ scares the hell out of them and they are not willing to get even 1000 pieces because they believe it's too much of a niche market.
There's only one entity that seems still interested: MassDrop. I must say that BSP is not the easiest to talk with, keyboards are not their core business and we you talk with them it's like they are doing you a favor. Anyway in a couple of days I should know if this project has still a future.
Thanks for doing this Matt3o! This is a monumental task and hopefully Massdrop comes through, but the fact that you even attempted this is awesome. :thumb:
Post by: redskull on Fri, 09 January 2015, 20:44:46
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 10 January 2015, 02:49:35
It's not over yet!
I'll keep the "purchase intent" open another week!
there's still hope! keep ordering!
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 10 January 2015, 04:34:33
yes we are talking with alternative manufacturers!
It's not over yet!
I'll keep the "purchase intent" open another week!
there's still hope! keep ordering!
Thanks Matt we desperately NEED this above all else. Not enough love for any quality PBT space-bars these days and it has to happen soon.
Anyone NOT wanting a PBT spacer better lock themselves in their safe-room soon because someone here shall visit you in the dead of night........ it won't be pretty at all ;) .
Post by: nukec on Sat, 10 January 2015, 08:41:42
Post by: ideus on Sat, 10 January 2015, 09:58:36
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 10 January 2015, 10:26:51
I hope everything will be finalized by the end of next week.
Post by: Sturmfrau on Sun, 11 January 2015, 04:43:01
"small" retailers are not clearly interested, but worry not, I have one last ace in the sleeve.
I hope everything will be finalized by the end of next week.
Praying for good news
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 11 January 2015, 12:46:04
"small" retailers are not clearly interested, but worry not, I have one last ace in the sleeve.
I hope everything will be finalized by the end of next week.
We are all rooting for you Matt3o! Hopefully this all works out!
Post by: slickmamba on Sun, 11 January 2015, 12:51:40
Thanks Matt3o!
Post by: 00zeRO on Sun, 11 January 2015, 13:00:02
Are Topre keyboards a niche market? Well, truth being told any mechanical keyboard type is within a niche market. But, these manufacturers believe Topre keyboards are within a niche market in the niche market of mechanicals?
If they are even mechanical. I am not wanting to begin that debate, but there are those who love their Topres unto the death which would have something to say about them being referred to as a mechanical keyboard. AFAIK they feature 'capacitance' switches with individual rubber membranes. Niche is definitely applicable to this whole situation, however.
Disclaimer: The above was merely an attempt by a non-user to explain a long held position by Topre users and by no means intended to defame or otherwise defraud any user of Topre Corporation keyboards.
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 12 January 2015, 04:03:51
Colors:
Code: [Select]
[Medium gray] => 52
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 51
[Red] => 49
[Mint/Light Green] => 36
[Blue] => 35
[Purple] => 35
[Orange] => 30
[Green] => 28
[Pink] => 27
[Lavender] => 23
[Yellow] => 15
[Beige] => 15
[Magenta] => 12
[Brown] => 4As I said earlier, this week will be decisive for the future of this buy. I'll keep you posted!
Post by: Sturmfrau on Mon, 12 January 2015, 05:53:53
We are at 50% !
Colors:Code: [Select][Medium gray] => 52
[Sky Blue/Light Blue] => 51
[Red] => 49
[Mint/Light Green] => 36
[Blue] => 35
[Purple] => 35
[Orange] => 30
[Green] => 28
[Pink] => 27
[Lavender] => 23
[Yellow] => 15
[Beige] => 15
[Magenta] => 12
[Brown] => 4
As I said earlier, this week will be decisive for the future of this buy. I'll keep you posted!
Mah wallet is ready to go. :D
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 12 January 2015, 11:07:44
Post by: strict on Mon, 12 January 2015, 14:00:56
- 4 black
- 2 white
- 1 Color pack (Medium Gray, Light Blue, Orange)
How close are we expecting the Light Blue to match the mods of the AE Realforce boards? In the same ballpark on somewhere else totally? I know the Medium Gray is supposed to be close to the color of the AE alphas but it crossed my mind that the it might look cool with a blue spacebar instead of gray.
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 12 January 2015, 14:28:59
My guess is reddit but I can't be too sure. Every time this Purchase Intent form is posted to reddit, a bunch of people have signed up. if this is the case, I'm guessing meeting the goal wouldn't be impossible if we extended the deadline for a few more weeks and ensured the post stayed up on reddit by reporting it every day (there might have been a lack of participation from reddit but to be fair, the form has only been visible for no more than 4 days)
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 12 January 2015, 17:12:38
regarding colors, the light blue is the blue PFU used for the recent "Color Key Top Set" ( PD-KB400KT01 ).
Post by: strict on Mon, 12 January 2015, 17:42:22
it took like 3 weeks to go from 40 to 50% it would take another 6 months to meet the goal our own and at that point many would have forgotten about their order or changed their minds.
regarding colors, the light blue is the blue PFU used for the recent "Color Key Top Set" ( PD-KB400KT01 ).
Thanks for the info! From quickly glancing at some pictures (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=39066.msg760631#msg760631) of the two colors side by side it looks like that shade of blue is noticably lighter than the AE mods. Its like a powdery blue that almost makes the AE mods look like a dirty blue.
Post by: sorijealut on Mon, 12 January 2015, 18:49:38
Just wondering, which community can be attributed to the most recent jump from 41% to 50%??
My guess is reddit but I can't be too sure. Every time this Purchase Intent form is posted to reddit, a bunch of people have signed up. if this is the case, I'm guessing meeting the goal wouldn't be impossible if we extended the deadline for a few more weeks and ensured the post stayed up on reddit by reporting it every day (there might have been a lack of participation from reddit but to be fair, the form has only been visible for no more than 4 days)
I only posted on reddit twice now, once 1/4, and then on 1/10. I saw about 3%-4% jumps each time.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Mon, 12 January 2015, 21:07:22
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 12 January 2015, 22:20:38
If only Ripster would have the maturity to set aside his feud with GH and sticky the form to the sub, then we probbly would be MUCH closer to the goal...Just wondering, which community can be attributed to the most recent jump from 41% to 50%??
My guess is reddit but I can't be too sure. Every time this Purchase Intent form is posted to reddit, a bunch of people have signed up. if this is the case, I'm guessing meeting the goal wouldn't be impossible if we extended the deadline for a few more weeks and ensured the post stayed up on reddit by reporting it every day (there might have been a lack of participation from reddit but to be fair, the form has only been visible for no more than 4 days)
I only posted on reddit twice now, once 1/4, and then on 1/10. I saw about 3%-4% jumps each time.
Since that won't hapoen, it might be better if we just post it every couple of days
Post by: 00zeRO on Mon, 12 January 2015, 23:10:30
How dare you mention Voldemort's name, Potter! (please know I'm joking)If only Ripster would have the maturity to set aside his feud with GH and sticky the form to the sub, then we probbly would be MUCH closer to the goal...Just wondering, which community can be attributed to the most recent jump from 41% to 50%??
My guess is reddit but I can't be too sure. Every time this Purchase Intent form is posted to reddit, a bunch of people have signed up. if this is the case, I'm guessing meeting the goal wouldn't be impossible if we extended the deadline for a few more weeks and ensured the post stayed up on reddit by reporting it every day (there might have been a lack of participation from reddit but to be fair, the form has only been visible for no more than 4 days)
I only posted on reddit twice now, once 1/4, and then on 1/10. I saw about 3%-4% jumps each time.
Since that won't hapoen, it might be better if we just post it every couple of days
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 13 January 2015, 01:32:10
it took like 3 weeks to go from 40 to 50% it would take another 6 months to meet the goal our own and at that point many would have forgotten about their order or changed their minds.
regarding colors, the light blue is the blue PFU used for the recent "Color Key Top Set" ( PD-KB400KT01 ).
Thanks for the info! From quickly glancing at some pictures (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=39066.msg760631#msg760631) of the two colors side by side it looks like that shade of blue is noticably lighter than the AE mods. Its like a powdery blue that almost makes the AE mods look like a dirty blue.
I'm not sure, but that seems lavender. I'm talking about this
(http://image.rakuten.co.jp/pfudirect/cabinet/kb/img61334557.jpg)
Post by: breaker9691 on Fri, 16 January 2015, 13:40:51
i think this will be good, hope this handsome space will arrival soon
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 18 January 2015, 03:10:36
All retailers backed off.
MassDrop is still willing to do it if we can find a cheaper manufacturer that we might have found. We are sending a sample spacebar to the new manufacturer that will make a quotation. This might require some time, I guess at least 2 more weeks. I hate this situation as much as you do, but honestly 1 month ago I had a quote from the manufacturers and 3 retailers fighting for the exclusive...
Fortunately I haven't asked anyone money yet.
-----------
side note
Admittedly I'm a bit fed up of manufacturers saying that they can do it, but they actually can't... of sending emails and receiving replies after weeks... of retailers super excited wanting to participate at all costs and then backing off... I believe the next time I will be much more cautious when evaluating the feasibility of a project.
Post by: byker on Sun, 18 January 2015, 03:19:54
Post by: Moralless on Sun, 18 January 2015, 03:26:40
Hopefully all goes well and this IC will soon become a GB that's either run by you, massdrop or anyone trustable.
Post by: Bucake on Sun, 18 January 2015, 03:29:32
Thanks for all of your work in this Matt3o. We all appreciate it, and hopefully something can be made of this! Massdrop seems like a good route to go, as it will reach a far bigger audience then we can manage. I am hopeful that we can find a cheaper manufacturer. :)
+1
it's much appreciated how you've kept at it all these weeks, despite all the hiccups.
cheers matt3o! :D
Post by: bowji on Sun, 18 January 2015, 03:39:01
Thanks for all of your work in this Matt3o. We all appreciate it, and hopefully something can be made of this! Massdrop seems like a good route to go, as it will reach a far bigger audience then we can manage. I am hopeful that we can find a cheaper manufacturer. :)
+1
it's much appreciated how you've kept at it all these weeks, despite all the hiccups.
cheers matt3o! :D
+2
Its the act of trying to get the impossible, possible. I dont think anyone else has come this far for a massive spacebar groupbuy.
:thumb:
Post by: sorijealut on Sun, 18 January 2015, 14:11:01
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sun, 18 January 2015, 15:26:21
Post by: Macsmasher on Mon, 19 January 2015, 04:36:18
Post by: atectatifern on Mon, 19 January 2015, 04:58:50
Post by: derb2k2 on Tue, 20 January 2015, 14:49:46
Post by: sike on Sun, 25 January 2015, 18:43:35
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 26 January 2015, 01:32:39
We are at 56%
Top three colors
Medium gray => 57
Sky Blue/Light Blue => 57
Red => 55
I'm still waiting for a "go" or "no-go" from the new manufacturer.
Post by: nukec on Mon, 26 January 2015, 18:34:37
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 26 January 2015, 19:52:11
awesome thanks for update mateo
+1
:D
Post by: beestingza on Tue, 27 January 2015, 14:11:14
Is it possible to change my intent form color vote? I didn't see the light gray option and I'd switce my vote in with that lot if possible.
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 27 January 2015, 17:03:55
Thanks Mateo for all that you do. :thumb:
Is it possible to change my intent form color vote? I didn't see the light gray option and I'd switce my vote in with that lot if possible.
simply resend the form using the same email address. the previous order will be overwritten.
Post by: yomammary on Wed, 28 January 2015, 07:53:17
Nice, thank you.Thanks Mateo for all that you do. :thumb:
Is it possible to change my intent form color vote? I didn't see the light gray option and I'd switce my vote in with that lot if possible.
simply resend the form using the same email address. the previous order will be overwritten.
Post by: daviswalkers on Sat, 31 January 2015, 17:18:48
Post by: pexon on Sat, 31 January 2015, 17:23:20
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 01 February 2015, 01:56:01
If I picked the 3 color option will I have the option to chose to sub one of the colors for a white one? I like the idea of having color options but I also want to have a white one for sure.
that depends on pricing from the new manufacturer. Still waiting for a reply, hope to get one next week.
Post by: daviswalkers on Sun, 01 February 2015, 01:58:33
Sounds good to me, I look forward to hopefully hearing good news <3If I picked the 3 color option will I have the option to chose to sub one of the colors for a white one? I like the idea of having color options but I also want to have a white one for sure.
that depends on pricing from the new manufacturer. Still waiting for a reply, hope to get one next week.
Post by: monotagary on Sun, 01 February 2015, 13:22:02
Post by: Bucake on Sun, 01 February 2015, 15:27:07
Matt thank you for doing this! I only hope for the best on this IC.
+1 :)
i've been checking for updates every day since the start :D
Post by: luminor on Mon, 02 February 2015, 04:31:58
Post by: nukec on Fri, 06 February 2015, 07:17:52
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 06 February 2015, 10:06:37
any info on this?
Still waiting... :blank:
There has been no final word from the Mfr yet...
Post by: nukec on Sat, 07 February 2015, 06:14:47
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 07 February 2015, 06:32:47
Post by: Bucake on Sat, 07 February 2015, 07:21:30
Post by: rand77 on Sat, 07 February 2015, 20:26:24
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 08 February 2015, 03:38:59
best 3 colors so far
Medium gray: 60
Red: 58
Sky Blue/Light Blue: 57
Post by: daviswalkers on Sun, 08 February 2015, 03:40:28
Post by: monotagary on Sun, 08 February 2015, 04:13:36
Post by: yogrt on Sun, 08 February 2015, 05:22:16
Although my (first) HHKB PD-KB400B is still in the mail,
I just filled out the Topre PBT Spacebar "Purchase Intent" Form at:
http://goo.gl/forms/UQFSVWm3sL
So indeed, if even a newbie like me wants two, shouldn't more people?
Post by: nukec on Sun, 08 February 2015, 09:31:02
Post by: sorijealut on Sun, 08 February 2015, 12:57:09
We should repost this on reddit here and there + desktority and some chinese, japanese forums if someone knows any?
I wrote up a post before on reddit, so I'll try the post again :thumb:
I'll also be posting on a Korean forum ;)
Post by: nukec on Sun, 08 February 2015, 16:12:53
Post by: sorijealut on Sun, 08 February 2015, 16:28:35
are you korean? do you know lim yo hwan and lee yoon yeol?
Haha yepyep. Oh the Starcraft gods? Of course! :D
Post by: jerue on Sun, 08 February 2015, 18:12:28
Hope this goes through!
Now I just need an actual Topre keyboard...Poker 2, where are you? I must review you then trade for a Realforce 87u or HHKB!
Post by: nubbinator on Sun, 08 February 2015, 18:13:50
We are at 60%
best 3 colors so far
Medium gray: 60
Red: 58
Sky Blue/Light Blue: 57
Such boring colors. If one of the front runners was white, we could at least dye it to something interesting.
Post by: daviswalkers on Sun, 08 February 2015, 19:08:20
That's why I was hoping if I selected 3 colors I could choose like two of the winners and use the other for the white one, I really wanted a white but also wanted color but couldn't justify 4 of themWe are at 60%
best 3 colors so far
Medium gray: 60
Red: 58
Sky Blue/Light Blue: 57
Such boring colors. If one of the front runners was white, we could at least dye it to something interesting.
Post by: Extrasmossy on Sun, 08 February 2015, 19:36:50
Post by: Cods on Mon, 09 February 2015, 14:25:22
Post by: Sturmfrau on Tue, 10 February 2015, 19:43:45
Post by: 00zeRO on Tue, 10 February 2015, 20:40:45
Any news on this or did it die already? :(
We are still awaiting word from at least one manufacturer...
Post by: Moralless on Tue, 10 February 2015, 20:47:20
Such boring colors. If one of the front runners was white, we could at least dye it to something interesting.
It says in the OP: "The spacebar will be produced in 5 colors."
So those 3 colored spacebars will be made alongside black and white ones
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 11 February 2015, 12:43:56
okay, I'm mildly optimistic at this point.
I'll keep you posted, I hope to be able to start the GB in a couple of weeks
Post by: btctopre on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:29:54
Post by: sorijealut on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:44:06
The new manufacturer confirmed feasibility and gave us an estimate. MOQ is lower but we are still debating on the final cost.
okay, I'm mildly optimistic at this point.
I'll keep you posted, I hope to be able to start the GB in a couple of weeks
Great! Thanks for the awesome news!!!
Post by: ideus on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:45:54
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:53:18
The new manufacturer confirmed feasibility and gave us an estimate. MOQ is lower but we are still debating on the final cost.Awesome news, thanks for all the hard work and for sticking with it!
okay, I'm mildly optimistic at this point.
I'll keep you posted, I hope to be able to start the GB in a couple of weeks
Post by: atlas3686 on Fri, 13 February 2015, 00:44:36
The new manufacturer confirmed feasibility and gave us an estimate. MOQ is lower but we are still debating on the final cost.
okay, I'm mildly optimistic at this point.
I'll keep you posted, I hope to be able to start the GB in a couple of weeks
I must be honest I really didn't think it would come together but now I am feeling optimistic, thanks again for all the work!
Post by: Sygaldry on Fri, 13 February 2015, 01:01:09
Feeling hopeful now!
Post by: Willyc277 on Fri, 13 February 2015, 01:14:43
Post by: jamster on Fri, 13 February 2015, 01:38:27
Registered on the Google Doc, though I forgot to put in my GH ID.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 13 February 2015, 16:47:47
Post by: nukec on Sat, 14 February 2015, 07:43:23
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 14 February 2015, 08:50:28
I want to put new order (order more quantity), do I just reorder with same email to override the order?
exactly. prev order is overwritten
Post by: beestingza on Sat, 14 February 2015, 19:42:10
Post by: ideus on Sat, 14 February 2015, 20:29:09
Post by: monotagary on Sun, 15 February 2015, 01:46:32
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 15 February 2015, 02:39:52
What is the updated MoQ, and how the count of pre-orders is against it so far?
The MOQ should be 1000 per color, meaning that we might ditch a color or two.
Post by: nukec on Sun, 15 February 2015, 06:19:21
Post by: yomammary on Sun, 15 February 2015, 07:48:14
Once produced, can we take more space bars than ordered? Because of "color cut" ?This.
Post by: ideus on Sun, 15 February 2015, 08:18:35
What is the updated MoQ, and how the count of pre-orders is against it so far?
The MOQ should be 1000 per color, meaning that we might ditch a color or two.
Awesome. Well done Matt.
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 15 February 2015, 12:02:02
Once produced, can we take more space bars than ordered? Because of "color cut" ?
I'll run some math once I get the final numbers.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 18 February 2015, 21:35:01
Post by: Bucake on Wed, 18 February 2015, 22:54:07
I can't believe this is actually happening. I never thought I'd be so excited to get a spacebar. Something must be seriously wrong with my head.
i know what you mean :D
though, is it already certain? because i was under the impression it wasn't definite yet.. :)
btw; is there a high risk of warping?
Post by: nukec on Thu, 19 February 2015, 02:42:44
Post by: Moralless on Thu, 19 February 2015, 02:48:32
Post by: Firebolt1914 on Thu, 19 February 2015, 08:17:31
Post by: Sygaldry on Thu, 19 February 2015, 14:31:35
You mean... I can take the scotch tape off of my current space bar now?!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 19 February 2015, 17:36:42
Post by: derb2k2 on Fri, 20 February 2015, 05:39:35
Post by: Special K on Fri, 20 February 2015, 13:12:58
Post by: FrostyToast on Fri, 20 February 2015, 13:22:34
Would this work on a Realforce 103UB, or does that keyboard use a non-standard spacebar size? From comparing pictures it looks like the 103UB uses a different spacebar width than any other Topre board (HHKB, 87U, 104U) unfortunately.
That board uses a 7x spacebars instead of the traditional 6x that you see on most topre boards.
No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 6x
Post by: Special K on Fri, 20 February 2015, 14:35:29
Would this work on a Realforce 103UB, or does that keyboard use a non-standard spacebar size? From comparing pictures it looks like the 103UB uses a different spacebar width than any other Topre board (HHKB, 87U, 104U) unfortunately.
That board uses a 7x spacebars instead of the traditional 6x that you see on most topre boards.
No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 6x
Isn't 6x the standard spacebar width for most keyboards, not just for Topre? Or did you mean to say "No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 7x?"
Post by: FrostyToast on Fri, 20 February 2015, 14:38:52
Would this work on a Realforce 103UB, or does that keyboard use a non-standard spacebar size? From comparing pictures it looks like the 103UB uses a different spacebar width than any other Topre board (HHKB, 87U, 104U) unfortunately.
That board uses a 7x spacebars instead of the traditional 6x that you see on most topre boards.
No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 6x
Isn't 6x the standard spacebar width for most keyboards, not just for Topre? Or did you mean to say "No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 7x?"
6x spacebars are only standard on ****e like Razer, Corsair, some CoolerMaster and other gaming ****e.
Most keyboards either use 6.25x or 7x spacebars.
Post by: Sygaldry on Fri, 20 February 2015, 14:41:25
Wrong, sir.Would this work on a Realforce 103UB, or does that keyboard use a non-standard spacebar size? From comparing pictures it looks like the 103UB uses a different spacebar width than any other Topre board (HHKB, 87U, 104U) unfortunately.
That board uses a 7x spacebars instead of the traditional 6x that you see on most topre boards.
No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 6x
Isn't 6x the standard spacebar width for most keyboards, not just for Topre? Or did you mean to say "No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 7x?"
6.25u is the standard and 7u is much more common than 6u.
Post by: Special K on Fri, 20 February 2015, 15:05:45
Would this work on a Realforce 103UB, or does that keyboard use a non-standard spacebar size? From comparing pictures it looks like the 103UB uses a different spacebar width than any other Topre board (HHKB, 87U, 104U) unfortunately.
That board uses a 7x spacebars instead of the traditional 6x that you see on most topre boards.
No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 6x
Isn't 6x the standard spacebar width for most keyboards, not just for Topre? Or did you mean to say "No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 7x?"
6x spacebars are only standard on ****e like Razer, Corsair, some CoolerMaster and other gaming ****e.
Most keyboards either use 6.25x or 7x spacebars.
Ah, OK. I didn't even realize there were different spacebar sizes until I read this thread.
So just to be clear: this group purchase is only for a 6x spacebar, correct?
Post by: pesky brat on Fri, 20 February 2015, 15:09:05
Post by: FrostyToast on Fri, 20 February 2015, 15:11:15
Would this work on a Realforce 103UB, or does that keyboard use a non-standard spacebar size? From comparing pictures it looks like the 103UB uses a different spacebar width than any other Topre board (HHKB, 87U, 104U) unfortunately.
That board uses a 7x spacebars instead of the traditional 6x that you see on most topre boards.
No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 6x
Isn't 6x the standard spacebar width for most keyboards, not just for Topre? Or did you mean to say "No idea why the topre companies went with such a dumb spacebar size such as 7x?"
6x spacebars are only standard on ****e like Razer, Corsair, some CoolerMaster and other gaming ****e.
Most keyboards either use 6.25x or 7x spacebars.
Ah, OK. I didn't even realize there were different spacebar sizes until I read this thread.
So just to be clear: this group purchase is only for a 6x spacebar, correct?
Yes.
Post by: nukec on Sat, 21 February 2015, 04:51:04
Didn't know this existed :eek:. I'm pretty excited now, hopefully everything goes well.
Order plox and spam everywhere you can find it :)
Post by: Bucake on Sat, 21 February 2015, 09:52:00
Didn't know this existed :eek:. I'm pretty excited now, hopefully everything goes well.
Order plox and spam everywhere you can find it :)
i was complaining how (most) topre spacebars are abs, in some thread in » geekhack community » keyboards »,
and then someone linked this thread to me..
but i might never have found this thread if someone hadn't pointed out that it existed,
and i bet there are more 'geekhackers' like me, who don't really look at certain parts of the forums.
so yeah, don't make people miss out on this,
squeeze mentioning of this thread in where-ever you can :D
Post by: nukec on Sat, 21 February 2015, 18:13:35
(http://i.imgur.com/Gc8xita.png)
Post by: pexon on Sat, 21 February 2015, 18:17:14
Post by: nukec on Sat, 21 February 2015, 18:19:34
Post by: pexon on Sat, 21 February 2015, 18:36:28
I've seen the message dude, I will get back to it tomorrow :thumb:
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 22 February 2015, 02:42:43
Thank you for your continued support!
Post by: slickmamba on Sun, 22 February 2015, 02:48:38
we are at 70% now, but we will most likely have 4 colors instead of 5 and the MOQ changed so it's hard to say where we are with the numbers. Anyway I believe that the interest in a PBT spacebar is clear and I'll do everything I can to make it happen. Chinese holidays are over, so tomorrow I'll try to get back again from the manufacturer.I totally forgot what colors I ordered. I will need to edit/reorder after we know the finals colors! :)
Thank you for your continued support!
congrats on passing the huge hump!
Post by: Bomble on Sun, 22 February 2015, 04:21:06
we are at 70% now, but we will most likely have 4 colors instead of 5 and the MOQ changed so it's hard to say where we are with the numbers. Anyway I believe that the interest in a PBT spacebar is clear and I'll do everything I can to make it happen. Chinese holidays are over, so tomorrow I'll try to get back again from the manufacturer.
Thank you for your continued support!
That's great to hear. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to more news.
Post by: nukec on Sun, 22 February 2015, 07:05:26
Post by: choiboi on Sun, 22 February 2015, 11:45:50
Post by: steve.v on Sun, 22 February 2015, 11:49:21
Post by: swill on Sun, 22 February 2015, 12:02:43
I would like only one. It seems the minimum is 2
buy two. one for you, one for the community (help get the MOQ up for all of us). :)
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 22 February 2015, 12:31:03
Post by: atlas3686 on Sun, 22 February 2015, 13:03:20
What would I choose if I just want to get a color matched white HHKB spacebar? I don't mind ordering a couple more in different colors but it seems that I'd have to buy minimum 2 of the gray ones and then the colored ones
The gray is HHKB white, he went through it somewhere but basically the black is the Realforce/HHKB black and the gray/white is the white.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sun, 22 February 2015, 15:54:49
Also, incidently, is there any guesstimate on how long it might take to manufacture the things once this thing actually gets off the ground? A few months? Half a year?
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 22 February 2015, 17:11:31
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 22 February 2015, 17:34:29
What would I choose if I just want to get a color matched white HHKB spacebar? I don't mind ordering a couple more in different colors but it seems that I'd have to buy minimum 2 of the gray ones and then the colored ones
The gray is HHKB white, he went through it somewhere but basically the black is the Realforce/HHKB black and the gray/white is the white.
I thought as much =S
Post by: nukec on Sun, 22 February 2015, 17:34:53
Is it at all possible that I could order one black spacebar and one white spacebar instead of two of each or two of either one? I really don't need four of them...
Also, incidently, is there any guesstimate on how long it might take to manufacture the things once this thing actually gets off the ground? A few months? Half a year?
It is always good to have reserve.. And these will be very rare anyway.
Post by: yomammary on Sun, 22 February 2015, 18:43:35
Is it at all possible that I could order one black spacebar and one white spacebar instead of two of each or two of either one? I really don't need four of them...I'm ordering 2 white spacebars, so order 2 blacks and we'll trade. Since we're in Canada shipping shouldn't be too much.
Also, incidently, is there any guesstimate on how long it might take to manufacture the things once this thing actually gets off the ground? A few months? Half a year?
Is that ok?
Post by: TheSoulhunter on Tue, 24 February 2015, 10:16:18
Post by: sorijealut on Tue, 24 February 2015, 12:08:27
I'm glad we were able to reach the 70% number, little by little. I'd say it looks pretty damn good lol.
Like many of you guys, it will be gracing my new HHKB type-S ;)
Post by: nukec on Tue, 24 February 2015, 12:49:17
Post by: Halverson on Tue, 24 February 2015, 12:53:18
Post by: Bucake on Tue, 24 February 2015, 15:39:03
I'm so excited for this...
I'm glad we were able to reach the 70% number, little by little. I'd say it looks pretty damn good lol.
Like many of you guys, it will be gracing my new HHKB type-S ;)
as soon as matt3o says that it's definitely happening, i'll be ordering a White/Gray Realforce 87U 55g and a White/Gray Non-Printed HHKBP2 Type-S. :D
and a White 23U. to complement. :D
because who needs money, anyway :'(
Post by: nukec on Tue, 24 February 2015, 15:48:45
Post by: ghostjuggernaut on Tue, 24 February 2015, 16:23:11
Post by: nukec on Wed, 25 February 2015, 06:45:58
... is that I need to find out if I like topre first.
(http://www.hilariousgifs.com/tb/even-possible.jpg)
Post by: MJ45 on Wed, 25 February 2015, 06:58:08
Go ahead and sigh up, if you don't like Topre it will increase your resale value with the PBT spacebars!... is that I need to find out if I like topre first.Show Image(http://www.hilariousgifs.com/tb/even-possible.jpg)
Post by: nukec on Wed, 25 February 2015, 07:12:46
Which cherry switch comes close to topre?
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 25 February 2015, 13:00:57
I tried few cherry switches, and I must say, once I went topre, there was no way back for me.. Really, it's just that special feeling when you type.. Type Heaven basically.
Which cherry switch comes close to topre?
No comparisons...either side of the aisle will argue about this, but there is no Cherry MX switch that feels like Top Rubber, same as there are no rubberdomes that feel like mechanical switches. I am not saying that Topre is a membrane, but it is just in another league of keyswitch of which no Cherry can compare IMHO.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 25 February 2015, 18:47:49
Post by: ideus on Wed, 25 February 2015, 19:04:41
So boring, and repetitive.
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 25 February 2015, 19:22:33
So boring, and repetitive.
Indeed. We don't need to derail every thread into this comparison.
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 26 February 2015, 02:25:30
Is this thread about MX vs Topre now?
So boring, and repetitive.
That is definitely both boring and repetitive :)
Back to the topic at hand though, we close to proper PBT spacebars guys. I never thought this day would come.
Post by: Moralless on Thu, 26 February 2015, 03:42:54
Is this thread about MX vs Topre now?
So boring, and repetitive.
That is definitely both boring and repetitive :)
Back to the topic at hand though, we close to proper PBT spacebars guys. I never thought this day would come.
Really excited to get a bunch of white pbt spacebars that I can just dye to whatever color I like
Post by: Sencha on Thu, 26 February 2015, 06:24:51
Sweet
Post by: Sencha on Thu, 26 February 2015, 06:44:19
I would like only one. It seems the minimum is 2
It would be one of the easiest re-sales ever. Personally although I'm going to need one I'm hanging on to the other. At some point in the next 10 years I'll buy another type s to replace my current one and on goes a new PBT space bar.
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 26 February 2015, 06:54:23
I would like only one. It seems the minimum is 2
It would be one of the easiest re-sales ever. Personally although I'm going to need one I'm hanging on to the other. At some point in the next 10 years I'll buy another type s to replace my current one and on goes a new PBT space bar.
Right kind of thinking, these are going to be impossible to find in a couple years.
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 26 February 2015, 07:04:58
Another group buy?I would like only one. It seems the minimum is 2
It would be one of the easiest re-sales ever. Personally although I'm going to need one I'm hanging on to the other. At some point in the next 10 years I'll buy another type s to replace my current one and on goes a new PBT space bar.
Right kind of thinking, these are going to be impossible to find in a couple years.
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 26 February 2015, 07:12:16
Post by: strict on Thu, 26 February 2015, 08:49:18
Right kind of thinking, these are going to be impossible to find in a couple years.Another group buy?
I'm buying way more space bars than I will ever need because I sincerely doubt we will see another group buy for them for a very long time, if ever again. It's going to sting a little bit when I drop $100+ on just space bars but I'm not going to bank on the possibility of there being another group buy however many years in the future.
Post by: Lu_e on Thu, 26 February 2015, 12:11:44
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 26 February 2015, 12:14:19
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 26 February 2015, 13:01:58
Right kind of thinking, these are going to be impossible to find in a couple years.Another group buy?
I'm buying way more space bars than I will ever need because I sincerely doubt we will see another group buy for them for a very long time, if ever again. It's going to sting a little bit when I drop $100+ on just space bars but I'm not going to bank on the possibility of there being another group buy however many years in the future.
I somehow doubt it, if it wasn't for Matt3o this one wouldn't even be maybe happening.
I guess I should get more of them too then.
Post by: ghostjuggernaut on Thu, 26 February 2015, 18:13:35
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 26 February 2015, 19:01:44
I'm buying way more space bars than I will ever need because I sincerely doubt we will see another group buy for them for a very long time, if ever again. It's going to sting a little bit when I drop $100+ on just space bars but I'm not going to bank on the possibility of there being another group buy however many years in the future.
right. :)
i'm up for 4 black 4 white right now (will probably change to 2 black 6 white).
who knows, might even order more if the "this is probably the only chance"-feelings gets to me even more :D
and @atlas3686
thanks for that signature! didn't know about that aluminium HHKB case.
awesome stuff is(might be) happening :)
Post by: steve.v on Fri, 27 February 2015, 07:31:38
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 09:51:59
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 27 February 2015, 10:07:01
Post by: cooldiscretion on Fri, 27 February 2015, 11:26:15
Post by: steve.v on Fri, 27 February 2015, 11:42:00
Post by: strict on Fri, 27 February 2015, 11:50:38
whoa, if I'm not mistaken, my HHKB type-s is pbt.
All the keys except the spacebar are PBT, hence the reason for this group buy. :thumb:
I do seem to recall reading somewhere that there were a small number of Japanese Topre boards that came with PBT spacebars (broadcaster station boards or something) but I thought those were pretty well impossible to get ahold of.
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 27 February 2015, 12:25:02
I don't remember how many of each spacebar I ordered before. Is there a way for me to find this out? Or, should I just resubmit what I want now?
just resend your order using the same email address
Post by: cooldiscretion on Fri, 27 February 2015, 12:30:24
I don't remember how many of each spacebar I ordered before. Is there a way for me to find this out? Or, should I just resubmit what I want now?
just resend your order using the same email address
Thanks, will do.
Post by: steve.v on Fri, 27 February 2015, 13:36:14
whoa, if I'm not mistaken, my HHKB type-s is pbt.
All the keys except the spacebar are PBT, hence the reason for this group buy. :thumb:
I do seem to recall reading somewhere that there were a small number of Japanese Topre boards that came with PBT spacebars (broadcaster station boards or something) but I thought those were pretty well impossible to get ahold of.
I must be lucky, mine's pbt. I thought this was more about colors.
Post by: Sygaldry on Fri, 27 February 2015, 13:43:39
the Type S never came with PBT spacebars as far as I'm aware.whoa, if I'm not mistaken, my HHKB type-s is pbt.
All the keys except the spacebar are PBT, hence the reason for this group buy. :thumb:
I do seem to recall reading somewhere that there were a small number of Japanese Topre boards that came with PBT spacebars (broadcaster station boards or something) but I thought those were pretty well impossible to get ahold of.
I must be lucky, mine's pbt. I thought this was more about colors.
Post by: wholphin on Fri, 27 February 2015, 13:57:34
I don't remember how many of each spacebar I ordered before. Is there a way for me to find this out? Or, should I just resubmit what I want now?
just resend your order using the same email address
Have resubmitted my order to add a few more to my order. Sorry if that's somehow a hassle!
Post by: clacktalk on Fri, 27 February 2015, 14:21:31
picked up a pack of whites and the color pack
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 28 February 2015, 07:23:54
Have resubmitted my order to add a few more to my order. Sorry if that's somehow a hassle!
no problem at all
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 02 March 2015, 05:14:18
Have resubmitted my order to add a few more to my order. Sorry if that's somehow a hassle!
Same here, just wanted very conservative colours that match the current ones on any White or Black Realforce Keyboards.
Please scrap my previous picks because I thought you weren't serious about this Group Buy, my embarrassment for being so stupid in not recognizing your firm intentions here. Please forgive me :-\ .
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 02 March 2015, 08:41:56
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 02 March 2015, 17:24:00
buy 2 spacebars for forgiveness :D
Don't worry Bucake I have signed up for quite a few space-bars here. Love your name although you should change it to "Bukkake" 8) .
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Mon, 02 March 2015, 22:52:56
Post by: monotagary on Tue, 03 March 2015, 11:00:15
Post by: XMIT on Tue, 03 March 2015, 11:29:59
Post by: Bucake on Tue, 03 March 2015, 14:20:45
Don't worry Bucake I have signed up for quite a few space-bars here. Love your name although you should change it to "Bukkake" 8) .
i think the reference is enough :D
Submitted a new form with some updated stuff. Just wanted to throw a heads up your way.
same here!
changed from 4black 4white to 2black 6white.
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 04 March 2015, 03:36:16
it seems the spacebar samples we sent to the manufacturer went missing by the postal service. this is a curse... I'll keep you posted, maybe we need to send them more samples.
Post by: yomammary on Wed, 04 March 2015, 07:02:47
just a quick update.Patience is key!
it seems the spacebar samples we sent to the manufacturer went missing by the postal service. this is a curse... I'll keep you posted, maybe we need to send them more samples.
Post by: atlas3686 on Wed, 04 March 2015, 07:18:12
just a quick update.
it seems the spacebar samples we sent to the manufacturer went missing by the postal service. this is a curse... I'll keep you posted, maybe we need to send them more samples.
Wow that is so annoying, sorry Matt3o.
Post by: strict on Wed, 04 March 2015, 09:35:14
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 04 March 2015, 16:45:36
Post by: exitfire401 on Wed, 04 March 2015, 16:54:33
thanks, we have that sorted out. Tomorrow I should have a skype talk with massdrop and the manufacturer... let's see if we can get this damned quote finalized.
(https://scstylecaster.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/excited-gif22.gif?w=360&h=202)
Post by: Sygaldry on Wed, 04 March 2015, 17:15:43
Perfect timing as well because the scotch tape I put on my HHKB spacebar just ripped from wear!
Post by: Willyc277 on Wed, 04 March 2015, 19:00:59
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 05 March 2015, 01:31:32
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 05 March 2015, 06:42:02
We will have 4 colors. Probably white, blue, light blue, mid gray (or red).
Awesome, glad gray and blue made the final list. :thumb:
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 05 March 2015, 07:09:12
Post by: wupi on Thu, 05 March 2015, 07:18:56
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 05 March 2015, 07:19:25
No dark gray/black?
sorry, rectified.
Post by: hKing on Thu, 05 March 2015, 08:19:21
Post by: Sygaldry on Thu, 05 March 2015, 09:01:14
So we don't get the original black/gray-color for the spacebar? :eek:
No dark gray/black?
sorry, rectified.
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 05 March 2015, 12:39:08
:thumb:No dark gray/black?
sorry, rectified.
Post by: nukec on Thu, 05 March 2015, 15:31:23
Post by: Kinaesthetic on Thu, 05 March 2015, 20:02:13
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 06 March 2015, 01:29:13
Not much has changed in terms of order received, we are still under 80% but I need to know the final quote from the manufacturer, because it is very likely that we already reached the critical mass!
Post by: Polymer on Fri, 06 March 2015, 02:19:42
because it is very likely that we already reached the critical mass!
NICE!!!!!!!
Wow...if this happens..wow..
Post by: dustinhxc on Fri, 06 March 2015, 03:36:11
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 06 March 2015, 05:04:21
I wonder if mid grey would match my RF 104UB-DK spacebar. The white would be too light. I'm in for mid grey.
That would be nice having a space-bar match your current key-set BUT it won't happen because this manufacturer won't have access to those colours when they start pouring into the molds.
Have to wait and see what actual colours will be available (maybe already mentioned but too lazy to flick back and read - yes I'm a moron) :thumb: .
Post by: atlas3686 on Fri, 06 March 2015, 06:04:03
I was hoping we could get a grey match for the 10th Anniversary set but just going to have to hope it's close :)
Post by: Air tree on Fri, 06 March 2015, 09:50:25
Has there ever been a reason to why HHKB's or Realforce keyboards haven't come with pbt spacebars?
Post by: ideus on Fri, 06 March 2015, 10:00:54
I've put down what I want. It's great that we can get some pbt space bars.
Has there ever been a reason to why HHKB's or Realforce keyboards haven't come with pbt spacebars?
It has been discussed that the manufacturing of PBT spacebars with the Topre stabs may result in warped parts.
Post by: a_ak57 on Sat, 07 March 2015, 19:02:00
Post by: purpletiesto on Sun, 08 March 2015, 08:48:56
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 20:43:06
Post by: kaisiang on Fri, 13 March 2015, 05:29:01
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 18 March 2015, 03:21:44
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 18 March 2015, 10:28:50
Stay tuned I'll post an update in the coming hours!
Post by: swill on Wed, 18 March 2015, 10:33:58
We got the final quotation!
Stay tuned I'll post an update in the coming hours!
Haha. Nice, you just had to post to say that things were going slowly for things to get moving. :)
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 18 March 2015, 11:37:29
We got the final quotation!
Stay tuned I'll post an update in the coming hours!
Someone hold me!
Post by: yomammary on Wed, 18 March 2015, 13:00:38
Post by: Volvicsoda on Wed, 18 March 2015, 13:47:08
Post by: steve.v on Wed, 18 March 2015, 22:32:27
Post by: Halverson on Wed, 18 March 2015, 22:34:31
Post by: Air tree on Wed, 18 March 2015, 23:30:02
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 19 March 2015, 03:21:05
does this mean that there's only a discount for every 'set' of 4? (4-8-12-16 etc)
or is there a discount for every piece ordered in quantities of 4 and up? (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 etc)
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 19 March 2015, 07:29:58
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 19 March 2015, 08:33:24
thanks for the reply
Post by: kekstee on Thu, 19 March 2015, 09:15:27
Post by: a_ak57 on Thu, 19 March 2015, 14:39:50
unfortunately that was true for the old manufacturer. I still have to run some math with the new price list. The good news is that probably you'll be able to buy just 1 if you want, or at least just 1 per color (white+black and blue+red).Oh, that'd be pretty swell since I really only want 1 white and 1 black.
Post by: Sygaldry on Thu, 19 March 2015, 14:58:32
:eek:
Post by: Kinaesthetic on Thu, 19 March 2015, 21:49:09
(http://media0.giphy.com/media/rl0FOxdz7CcxO/giphy.gif)
:thumb:
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 20 March 2015, 04:24:39
1. Manufacturer will make the 3D model
2. A CNC spacebar based on that model will be machined and sent to me
3. If everything looks good we will proceed to mass production (possibly 4 colors)
The process will take 4-6 weeks I guess. Slow moving, but moving... :D
Post by: Polymer on Fri, 20 March 2015, 04:50:29
Never thought I'd see Topre PBT spacebars...great work!!!
Post by: Bucake on Fri, 20 March 2015, 04:53:13
Post by: kaisiang on Fri, 20 March 2015, 04:57:29
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 20 March 2015, 05:00:00
Post by: symezy123 on Fri, 20 March 2015, 05:57:22
Voted for red. ;D
Post by: saturnotaku on Fri, 20 March 2015, 09:48:51
Post by: colomb on Fri, 20 March 2015, 15:10:28
Post by: Latin00032 on Fri, 20 March 2015, 17:25:20
warping is my main concern. Unfortunately we won't know until the end of production but I'll make it clear that we don't want warped spacebars!Yea. Crystal clear.
I know you can fix warped pbt space bars.
I think you have to boil or steam them.
Post by: strict on Fri, 20 March 2015, 18:53:39
Yea. Crystal clear.
I know you can fix warped pbt space bars.
I think you have to boil or steam them.
Hairdryer was what I used to straighten out all my warped Granite keys.
Post by: nukec on Sun, 22 March 2015, 16:55:42
Post by: Bucake on Sun, 22 March 2015, 17:00:56
Nice to hear things succeeded. ;)
"that rug really tied the room together"
:D
i always laugh when i see your avatar.
and again when i read that quote.
Post by: cobraj on Thu, 26 March 2015, 00:24:17
Thanks for organising!
Spacebar on my Realforce has quite a bit of shine on it :o
Post by: invisuu on Thu, 26 March 2015, 03:41:52
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Sun, 29 March 2015, 15:41:15
Post by: hKing on Mon, 30 March 2015, 00:09:10
Any news?
Ok. this is what is going to happen.
1. Manufacturer will make the 3D model
2. A CNC spacebar based on that model will be machined and sent to me
3. If everything looks good we will proceed to mass production (possibly 4 colors)
The process will take 4-6 weeks I guess. Slow moving, but moving... :D
Post by: buriedpaul on Tue, 31 March 2015, 20:26:21
Post by: byker on Tue, 31 March 2015, 20:27:38
Is it too late to purchase?
Nope, just wait for the purchasing to begin! Matt3o is figuring out the process right now :)
Post by: luminor on Wed, 08 April 2015, 07:43:49
hopefully pink/purple/magenta will be available
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Tue, 21 April 2015, 14:38:47
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 21 April 2015, 16:34:10
Post by: Cafeine on Tue, 21 April 2015, 16:41:35
Post by: Latin00032 on Tue, 21 April 2015, 16:43:35
I should receive the first samples in the coming weeks and we might run the group buy around the end of next month.Matt-three-oh,
Is it going to be a geekhack gb or a massdrop gb?
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 22 April 2015, 01:15:55
Post by: MarkRobbo on Wed, 22 April 2015, 03:26:40
Post by: Bomble on Wed, 22 April 2015, 08:15:24
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 22 April 2015, 16:55:07
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Wed, 22 April 2015, 16:58:35
Post by: Tigermelon on Thu, 23 April 2015, 03:15:43
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 23 April 2015, 07:45:55
So what is the market for Topre boards anyway? Sure we all rave about them here, and they really are amazing keyboards, but they are pretty expensive. I'd imagine most people who do own a Topre board wouldn't be averse to spending ~$20 on a couple of spacebars for obvious reasons, but how many of those people are there?This is why it's called an interest check. Massdrop seems to think there's enough of a market to run a GB.
Post by: doodersbrother on Sun, 26 April 2015, 23:00:39
Post by: GenKaan on Mon, 27 April 2015, 04:02:44
Post by: Bomble on Mon, 27 April 2015, 07:44:01
Hope its not too late to sign on, would love one for my 88ub! Signed up :)
It's only purchase intent at this point so that rough numbers can be collected. Still plenty of time!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 30 April 2015, 02:55:14
Today I received the 3D model they will be building the spacebars on.
(http://i.imgur.com/9UmOpRU.png)
hold tight!
Post by: Bomble on Thu, 30 April 2015, 04:28:06
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 30 April 2015, 04:58:22
Manufacturer has being paid to start production of the mold.
Today I received the 3D model they will be building the spacebars on.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/9UmOpRU.png)
hold tight!
Much excite!
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 30 April 2015, 07:50:12
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 30 April 2015, 07:56:15
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 30 April 2015, 12:46:13
Post by: jackiecanev2 on Thu, 30 April 2015, 13:54:59
We will have 4 colors. Probably white, black, light blue, mid gray (or red).
Matt3o, is this the latest/final color count?
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 30 April 2015, 16:56:42
We will have 4 colors. Probably white, black, light blue, mid gray (or red).
Matt3o, is this the latest/final color count?
Pretty much yes, anyway I'll count again before going production.
Post by: shrubkeys on Fri, 01 May 2015, 16:49:00
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 01 May 2015, 18:11:32
Manufacturer has being paid to start production of the mold.
Today I received the 3D model they will be building the spacebars on.
hold tight!
How long do you think the initial production will take? And they required a down payment? Is that out of pocket for now?
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 01 May 2015, 23:01:55
massdrop
Make it happen soon Matt because there's a lot of Thorpie Addicts out there, desperately wanting some PBT spacer action 8) .
For the first time you shall enable all Realforce owners to finally have an all PBT key-set, we owe you big time for arranging this.
Post by: Belfong on Fri, 01 May 2015, 23:36:54
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 02 May 2015, 01:34:29
I do hope to receive the samples next week. crossing fingers!
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 02 May 2015, 05:08:20
It is moving so darn slowly... but it is moving.
I do hope to receive the samples next week. crossing fingers!
Essence of manufacturing, they always take their time ;D .
We all know you're the one running this hence when it finally becomes an OFFICIAL Group Buy on Massdrop, you'll get thousands signing up for these babies.
Post by: absyrd on Sat, 02 May 2015, 05:10:04
It is moving so darn slowly... but it is moving.
I do hope to receive the samples next week. crossing fingers!
I, too, have my fingers crossed that warping is at a minimum and they all function properly.
Post by: nukec on Sat, 02 May 2015, 06:08:57
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 02 May 2015, 06:14:12
When is this going to be on massdrop?Soon (tm)
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 02 May 2015, 08:16:34
Post by: durainello on Sat, 02 May 2015, 08:30:52
Post by: Bucake on Sat, 02 May 2015, 08:41:45
It is moving so darn slowly... but it is moving.
I do hope to receive the samples next week. crossing fingers!
I, too, have my fingers crossed that warping is at a minimum and they all function properly.
got mine crossed for these reasons as well :D
Post by: Air tree on Wed, 06 May 2015, 02:48:19
Thanks again Matt3o for putting this together.
Post by: Bucake on Wed, 06 May 2015, 10:56:36
it would be easy for anyone new to the thread to be up to date on the whole thing by reading just the OP, rather than searching the pages for updates. same goes for new information like available colors and all that.
but i understand you might want to wait with updating OP until everything is final.
just a thought :D
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 06 May 2015, 11:31:39
Post by: sorijealut on Wed, 06 May 2015, 20:18:33
Also, I'm curious to see if the prototypes will bend :X I've heard the challenges in PBT spacebars!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 07 May 2015, 01:10:01
Will it be the same kind of thin-PBT we see in stock caps?
Also, I'm curious to see if the prototypes will bend :X I've heard the challenges in PBT spacebars!
the spacebar will be a perfect replica of the original. as soon as I get samples we'll know if it bends :)
Post by: lookitdisnub on Thu, 07 May 2015, 01:46:00
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 07 May 2015, 10:26:55
Will it be the same kind of thin-PBT we see in stock caps?
Also, I'm curious to see if the prototypes will bend :X I've heard the challenges in PBT spacebars!
the spacebar will be a perfect replica of the original. as soon as I get samples we'll know if it bends :)
Can't wait. Either way it will be interesting seeing the results!
:D Best of luck to us! :eek: :p
Post by: YoJinBro on Fri, 08 May 2015, 08:10:19
Post by: punchingtofus on Sat, 09 May 2015, 04:08:30
Post by: Air tree on Sat, 09 May 2015, 13:39:39
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 11 May 2015, 02:09:04
Post by: Halverson on Mon, 11 May 2015, 02:23:55
They are shipping the prototypes today! I should get them in 2-3 days!
Sweet baby Jesus! Hoping for the best!
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 11 May 2015, 02:24:26
They are shipping the prototypes today! I should get them in 2-3 days!
BRILLIANT, when they arrive please take lots of pics for us to ogle at. Needless to say we all want to see some extreme rear end pictures here because we are Geekhackers 8) .
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 11 May 2015, 04:56:19
(http://i.imgur.com/oZxzaRn.jpg)
Post by: RoastPotatoes on Mon, 11 May 2015, 05:02:50
Guys... All hands on the table please...Wow. They look good to me :)More(http://i.imgur.com/oZxzaRn.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/oZxzaRn.jpg)
Are those single caps new as well or they from an existing set? Does this mean you might be able to get Topre caps made?
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 11 May 2015, 05:09:34
but of course... if I can make a spacebar I can make single units :)
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 11 May 2015, 05:21:11
if possible, it would be very nice to see a picture of the white/black spacebar next to a topre board of the same color! or even ON one?
or/and comparison pictures of the original ABS + new PBT spacebar.
how is the warp/bend?
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 11 May 2015, 05:28:00
Post by: yomammary on Mon, 11 May 2015, 07:38:08
Post by: MarkRobbo on Mon, 11 May 2015, 08:02:16
Possibly not as it seems lighter with the PFU esc key having a tinge of purple to it.
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 11 May 2015, 08:09:29
Nice! Wonder if the colour of the sky blue spacebar will match the limited edition esc key.
yes, that is the key we used as reference
Post by: MarkRobbo on Mon, 11 May 2015, 08:12:36
Nice! Wonder if the colour of the sky blue spacebar will match the limited edition esc key.
yes, that is the key we used as reference
Oh nice, one step ahead of me. I see now, the singles/ctrl next to the space bars are original PFU caps.
Looking forward to your pictures and thoughts when you have them in hand, and hopefully the drop!
Post by: a_ak57 on Mon, 11 May 2015, 09:50:00
What shade is the white spacebar going to lean towards? The HHKB or the realforce white? And does anyone know what is the more "Pure white"I hadn't even thought about this. I know the grey is slightly different, but the HHKB/RF white is different too?
also yay progress
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 11 May 2015, 10:38:27
Guys... All hands on the table please...Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/oZxzaRn.jpg)
YESSSSS!
Post by: Lurch on Mon, 11 May 2015, 11:37:06
Fingers crossed this all works out. :thumb:
Post by: sorijealut on Mon, 11 May 2015, 13:15:13
This is the culmination of all your hard work.
Best of luck in manufacturing and in the fine-tuning process, and all that. What great products :'(
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 12 May 2015, 05:32:47
Guys... All hands on the table please...Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/oZxzaRn.jpg)
Full on Sexy as HELL.
The Red one really stands out, I may redo my original order to include some Red for my Thorpie, the colour of achievement when inducting a Virgin.
Post by: Belfong on Tue, 12 May 2015, 07:04:35
Post by: atlas3686 on Tue, 12 May 2015, 13:46:12
Omg!! when can we start throwing monies?
This
Post by: Halverson on Tue, 12 May 2015, 13:54:15
Post by: Air tree on Tue, 12 May 2015, 13:59:32
Colors look great! Can't wait to sex up my boards.Pm with sexed up pics pls?
Post by: Halverson on Tue, 12 May 2015, 14:11:06
Colors look great! Can't wait to sex up my boards.Pm with sexed up pics pls?
Remind me when these finally go through the process of getting to my hands.
Post by: Gaspar on Tue, 12 May 2015, 22:40:33
Post by: cooldiscretion on Tue, 12 May 2015, 22:55:35
Guys... All hands on the table please...Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/oZxzaRn.jpg)
Those look amazing! I need them all. :)
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Tue, 12 May 2015, 23:20:13
Anyway, amazing. Great to see your hard work is starting to pay off.
Post by: Bucake on Wed, 13 May 2015, 02:56:01
Given our luck so far, who wants to bet that the prototypes get lost in the mail? Or maybe the plane they're on will get shot down by North Korea. $10? Anyone?
Anyway, amazing. Great to see your hard work is starting to pay off.
they get intercepted by a team of professional topre lovers
it will be a grand heist, with guns and tnt
the best part is that they will not simply steal them, but replace them with abs bars
only when we start to see shine on our caps, will we realize something is wrong..
Post by: Dwight on Wed, 13 May 2015, 07:59:25
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 May 2015, 08:26:38
More info later...
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Thu, 14 May 2015, 08:33:38
Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/zcHiZSf.jpg)
More info later...
Squeeeeeee so excited!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 May 2015, 08:34:51
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 May 2015, 08:40:46
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 14 May 2015, 08:44:36
Post by: Bomble on Thu, 14 May 2015, 09:18:36
Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/xPvuO3x.jpg)
HOT DAMN
Post by: cooldiscretion on Thu, 14 May 2015, 09:37:39
Looks better then I even thought it would. Wow.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/xPvuO3x.jpg)
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 May 2015, 10:43:24
I have to talk with the manufacturer about some small issues and I'll post a status update here and the OP.
We are a little closer now.
Post by: Kinaesthetic on Thu, 14 May 2015, 11:26:48
Post by: Latin00032 on Thu, 14 May 2015, 12:54:26
Guessing no warping? If so, ughh, wallet will hate me, but holy heck have you and the manufacturer done a great job. Those look absolutely fantastic. Can't wait to throw money at the screen!Yes!
(http://cdn0.dailydot.com/uploaded/images/original/2012/1/29/jan._31_mayweather_bigger.gif)
Can't wait!
Post by: a_ak57 on Thu, 14 May 2015, 12:59:38
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 14 May 2015, 14:18:53
and good lord, that red one looks good on the black board
excite!
Post by: oscillik on Thu, 14 May 2015, 14:31:57
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 14 May 2015, 14:41:50
it'll be interesting to see how well these sell on Massdrop when they're finally available. Maybe if they sell well, more colour runs could happen...
Or something like a coloured fn key/cluster.
Or dare I say it... complete blank realforce sets? Getting ahead of myself there the tooling costs would likely be extreme.
What were the small issues with the samples can I ask?
Post by: swill on Thu, 14 May 2015, 16:56:29
last i checked it didn't look like my pink or purple was going to make it in...
Post by: trizkut on Thu, 14 May 2015, 16:58:10
do we know which colors are being produced yet? or does it still depend on pre-orders?
last i checked it didn't look like my pink or purple was going to make it in...
I think as of right now it's white/black/red/blue
Post by: exitfire401 on Thu, 14 May 2015, 16:59:55
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 May 2015, 17:05:57
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Thu, 14 May 2015, 17:10:24
Post by: jackiecanev2 on Thu, 14 May 2015, 17:26:49
do we know which colors are being produced yet? or does it still depend on pre-orders?
last i checked it didn't look like my pink or purple was going to make it in...
White PBT space + iDye Poly = pink or purple or whatever you want! :thumb:
Post by: Halverson on Thu, 14 May 2015, 20:25:54
do we know which colors are being produced yet? or does it still depend on pre-orders?
last i checked it didn't look like my pink or purple was going to make it in...
White PBT space + iDye Poly = pink or purple or whatever you want! :thumb:
Duh! I can't believe I didn't think of that! May need more white bars!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 15 May 2015, 01:51:32
What sort of little issues did you notice?
I'm still talking with the manufacturer, but it seems that everything's fine. The small issues are caused by the fact that the prototypes are made with a different process than the final product.
So it seems we are all good and ready for production. I'll try to talk with MD today and fix a date for the GB.
First though I want to be 100% sure that the final run will be perfect!
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 15 May 2015, 02:18:36
So it seems we are all good and ready for production. I'll try to talk with MD today and fix a date for the GB.
First though I want to be 100% sure that the final run will be perfect!
When this starts on MassDrop, do expect orders of hundreds, nay thousands of these to be made. Just make sure the Manufacturer you chose can handle that amount of orders 8) .
Post by: strict on Fri, 15 May 2015, 05:40:22
What sort of little issues did you notice?
I'm still talking with the manufacturer, but it seems that everything's fine. The small issues are caused by the fact that the prototypes are made with a different process than the final product.
So it seems we are all good and ready for production. I'll try to talk with MD today and fix a date for the GB.
First though I want to be 100% sure that the final run will be perfect!
Excellent news, can't wait to finally throw some money at this!
Thanks for all your hard work, Matt3o! Few people contribute to this community in such a big way as you do.
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 15 May 2015, 05:58:28
do we know which colors are being produced yet? or does it still depend on pre-orders?
last i checked it didn't look like my pink or purple was going to make it in...
White PBT space + iDye Poly = pink or purple or whatever you want! :thumb:
Going to be ordering quite the number of white bars, eh?
(me too)
Post by: durainello on Fri, 15 May 2015, 06:20:36
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 15 May 2015, 07:00:28
Will you be posting another ORDER form specifying exact colours and/or tints used on these space-bars for us to buy?
Just would like to know because the current one is too old and non specific about actual colours being used in the construction of these spacers. Please remember old man here and not use to taking on a guess what colours will be available for purchase because I have changed what I really want to add in my final order here.
Post by: dante on Fri, 15 May 2015, 07:57:26
The Realforce spacebar is kind of pointy if you know what I mean...
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 15 May 2015, 08:14:44
Is this designed to be a 100% replica in form factor or is it "new and improved" so people won't want to flip it?
1:1 replica.
I'm just curious is is possible to dye into another color with the original grey caps from the 87UW.
You can dye the light-gray PBT one, sure. It's very light actually.
I suppose this question is for Matt3o;
Will you be posting another ORDER form specifying exact colours and/or tints used on these space-bars for us to buy?
Just would like to know because the current one is too old and non specific about actual colours being used in the construction of these spacers. Please remember old man here and not use to taking on a guess what colours will be available for purchase because I have changed what I really want to add in my final order here.
Please keep ordering if you are interested even with the outdated form. That serves mainly to collect emails and to have a ballpark idea of the final numbers.
As soon as we go live all preorders will receive an email. I'm doing my best to give at least to the first batch of preorders (the first 1-2 months) a discount.
Post by: esoomenona on Fri, 15 May 2015, 08:21:03
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 15 May 2015, 10:54:07
Should we fill out another order if we might want something different? Will a second submission placed supersede a previous one or be added to it?
the second overrides the first (if using the same email address)
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 15 May 2015, 11:21:38
Post by: rawkus on Fri, 15 May 2015, 11:54:05
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 15 May 2015, 11:55:21
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 15 May 2015, 12:09:35
Anyway as soon as the manufacturer confirms: 1) color accuracy, 2) that the final product will be free of the issues of the prototype, we could start.
Technically (and hopefully) next week.
Post by: a_ak57 on Fri, 15 May 2015, 12:45:34
Post by: MarkRobbo on Fri, 15 May 2015, 12:57:18
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 15 May 2015, 13:16:26
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 15 May 2015, 13:17:52
it will be possible to order 1 black + 1 white, but MOQ is pretty high I don't know if we can afford 1 spacebar orders.
Hmmm. This is something we need to know sooner than later. I'm sure a bunch of people can add 1 more piece to each order if it'll make or break the GB.
Post by: MarkRobbo on Fri, 15 May 2015, 13:19:34
Thanks for making this possible Matt3o
Post by: a_ak57 on Fri, 15 May 2015, 13:42:02
it will be possible to order 1 black + 1 white, but MOQ is pretty high I don't know if we can afford 1 spacebar orders.
Cool, one black and one white is what I wanted to do. But just a heads up, I may not be the only one who'll want to downgrade order size from what was selected on the survey way back when (since the minimum was 2 for each color, I put 2 white and 2 black). There may be a noteworthy discrepancy between the actual orders you get vs what you expect.
Post by: ironpup on Fri, 15 May 2015, 14:07:30
it will be possible to order 1 black + 1 white, but MOQ is pretty high I don't know if we can afford 1 spacebar orders.Great! Then I can have pbt on both my keysets :p
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 15 May 2015, 21:12:54
it will be possible to order 1 black + 1 white, but MOQ is pretty high I don't know if we can afford 1 spacebar orders.
When ordering in Space-bars whether they be made out of ABS or PBT you ALWAYS ORDER in lots of 4 or 6 for each Colour because these are extremely rare.
Who knows if Matt3o will ever do this thing again yet we get 'clinchers' claiming they will only need ONE space-bar, hang your head down in shame, when you frequent Geekhack >:D .
PLUS when you buy all of these space-bars and you decide to dump your Thorpies (only the insane would do this) then sell the spacers in the classifieds section on this forum, where they will be fought over for. You guys have no idea how rare all PBT space-bars are for all original Realforce and HHKB keyboards. Don't be stupid and miss out on getting as much of these babies as possible 8) .
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 15 May 2015, 21:21:49
Post by: fanpeople on Fri, 15 May 2015, 22:42:43
Post by: nukec on Sat, 16 May 2015, 07:32:11
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 16 May 2015, 08:05:55
It's $9 per spacebar... Come on you won't die if you order 2.
hopefully a little less...
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 16 May 2015, 08:18:40
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 16 May 2015, 08:26:39
I am actually confused about all these ordering talk here. The final orders will be through Mass Drop anyway, right? This form in OP is just to show intention, or am I missing something?
you are missing nothing :)
if I were you I would fill the "purchase intent" form. It costs nothing and I might be able to grant some discount to the preorders
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 16 May 2015, 08:32:26
I am actually confused about all these ordering talk here. The final orders will be through Mass Drop anyway, right? This form in OP is just to show intention, or am I missing something?
you are missing nothing :)
if I were you I would fill the "purchase intent" form. It costs nothing and I might be able to grant some discount to the preorders
I've already filled this form months ago, just thinking of adding more space bars to my order but I figure I don't need to do that since the actual order will be at Massdrop anyway. Should I add my orders here - definitely interested in pre order discount.
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 16 May 2015, 09:01:11
Post by: absyrd on Sat, 16 May 2015, 09:20:19
it will be possible to order 1 black + 1 white, but MOQ is pretty high I don't know if we can afford 1 spacebar orders.
When ordering in Space-bars whether they be made out of ABS or PBT you ALWAYS ORDER in lots of 4 or 6 for each Colour because these are extremely rare.
Who knows if Matt3o will ever do this thing again yet we get 'clinchers' claiming they will only need ONE space-bar, hang your head down in shame, when you frequent Geekhack >:D .
PLUS when you buy all of these space-bars and you decide to dump your Thorpies (only the insane would do this) then sell the spacers in the classifieds section on this forum, where they will be fought over for. You guys have no idea how rare all PBT space-bars are for all original Realforce and HHKB keyboards. Don't be stupid and miss out on getting as much of these babies as possible 8) .
I didn't think this far into the future. I only ordered two. Gonna jack that number up as I can always keep plenty of extra and help out people who may miss this.
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 16 May 2015, 09:29:12
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 16 May 2015, 19:38:47
I'm buying the colours to match my current Realforce/HHKB key set and for those that I hope I will get in future eg red and 10AE - is 10AE considered dark grey?
Smart man, although getting the 10AE 55g should be your ONLY reason to live because after you attain it, everything else in life seems lacklustre at best 8) .
Post by: YoJinBro on Sat, 16 May 2015, 19:48:42
Ain't that the truth.I'm buying the colours to match my current Realforce/HHKB key set and for those that I hope I will get in future eg red and 10AE - is 10AE considered dark grey?
Smart man, although getting the 10AE 55g should be your ONLY reason to live because after you attain it, everything else in life seems lacklustre at best 8) .
On topic: I think Medium Grey is what you're looking for. It won't be color matched as that is apparently a very expensive process, but matt3o says he/they/the powers that be will do their best to eyeball it and get as close to a match as possible to the rf10ae grey as possible.
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 16 May 2015, 21:15:51
I'm buying the colours to match my current Realforce/HHKB key set and for those that I hope I will get in future eg red and 10AE - is 10AE considered dark grey?
Smart man, although getting the 10AE 55g should be your ONLY reason to live because after you attain it, everything else in life seems lacklustre at best 8) .
I’m confuse! I thought I should only live for GMK caps not some low grade 10AE! Which is which Elrick? :p
Ain't that the truth.I'm buying the colours to match my current Realforce/HHKB key set and for those that I hope I will get in future eg red and 10AE - is 10AE considered dark grey?
Smart man, although getting the 10AE 55g should be your ONLY reason to live because after you attain it, everything else in life seems lacklustre at best 8) .
On topic: I think Medium Grey is what you're looking for. It won't be color matched as that is apparently a beer expensive process, but matt3o says he/they/the powers that be will do their best to eyeball it and get as close to a match as possible to the rf10ae grey as possible.
Medium gray. Thanks mate. Looks like I need to update my form again. He he.
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:35:16
I’m confuse! I thought I should only live for GMK caps not some low grade 10AE! Which is which Elrick? :p
You know what's worse than having a nagging wife, a nagging Belfong >:( .
GMK is always up there for general Key-cap selection BUT the AE10 55g (which is never low grade - poor misguided Belfong), will always be the ALL-IN-ONE Keyboard to buy and own.
Post by: Belfong on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:43:05
I’m the lost lamb waiting to be saved! Everything seemed to be the One in Elrick’s keyboard religion. Oh my poor, ignorant wallet. Good thing the 10AE is not available anymore. No, widebasket is a myth. I refuse to listen. no no no!I’m confuse! I thought I should only live for GMK caps not some low grade 10AE! Which is which Elrick? :p
You know what's worse than having a nagging wife, a nagging Belfong >:( .
GMK is always up there for general Key-cap selection BUT the AE10 55g (which is never low grade - poor misguided Belfong), will always be the ALL-IN-ONE Keyboard to buy and own.
Post by: durainello on Sat, 16 May 2015, 23:20:23
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 16 May 2015, 23:24:32
I’m the lost lamb waiting to be saved! Everything seemed to be the One in Elrick’s keyboard religion. Oh my poor, ignorant wallet. Good thing the 10AE is not available anymore. No, widebasket is a myth. I refuse to listen. no no no!
When you're OLDER you shall come to the sudden realization that listening to old dero's such as myself, will get you into serious trouble 8) .
Also there is NO MORE absolute BEST in the world because there will always be another "BEST" coming round the corner, sorry for confusing you. Also GMK, BSP and now SA Profiled Key-caps are the ONLY ones worth buying with your money, hence saying that if I could choose only ONE thing in life that is worth pursuing and keeping it shall always be my Mrs, everything else is just spare confetti.
Post by: atlas3686 on Sun, 17 May 2015, 06:24:30
I'm buying the colours to match my current Realforce/HHKB key set and for those that I hope I will get in future eg red and 10AE - is 10AE considered dark grey?
Also hoping we still get the medium gray as well for the 10th AE sets, that's the spacebar I probably use most other then white/cream. But either way we already winning with this project :)
Post by: luckynet on Mon, 18 May 2015, 09:53:25
MATT3O!!!!!
Post by: absyrd on Mon, 18 May 2015, 10:23:37
WHEN THESE COMING!? WHEN? WHY AM I YELLING?? GUYS! COME YELL WITH ME!!!
MATT3O!!!!!
next gb: pay for absyrd to travel the world removing capslock and shift keys from every keyboard
Post by: wupi on Mon, 18 May 2015, 11:45:57
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! :o :p
Post by: joric on Wed, 20 May 2015, 06:05:36
Also hoping we still get the medium gray as well for the 10th AE sets, that's the spacebar I probably use most other then white/cream. But either way we already winning with this project :)
I don't know if people really want medium grey but I personally probably marked it by mistake (don't really remember marked or not), infact, I only wanted one spare dark grey PBT space for because the ABS is already getting shiny (had to order two), and I certainly didn't need the medium grey (maybe marked it because the form is confusing, you probably need to add a comment that medium grey is not the same as the original dark grey).
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 20 May 2015, 14:17:49
yes please, update your order
Could you tell me what my current order looks like? I can't remember. :)
Also, it looks like the final order form/system will be different (won't require buying the same quantities, colors, etc.), so that doesn't matter? I want in on those pre-order discounts! :cool:
Post by: MarkRobbo on Wed, 20 May 2015, 14:39:40
yes please, update your order
Could you tell me what my current order looks like? I can't remember. :)
Also, it looks like the final order form/system will be different (won't require buying the same quantities, colors, etc.), so that doesn't matter? I want in on those pre-order discounts! :cool:
I'm in the same boat, no idea what my original order was, it was a long while ago - does this matter?
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 20 May 2015, 16:48:30
WHEN THESE COMING!? WHEN? WHY AM I YELLING?? GUYS! COME YELL WITH ME!!!
MATT3O!!!!!
Yelling not necessary. Matt3o is waiting for some samples last I heard...shouldn't be long now...
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:10:24
Post by: Halverson on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:13:37
I updated the OP. Please everybody read.
Cool beans!
Post by: absyrd on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:14:42
And buy more (not less) than you committed to in IC phase.
Got it.
Post by: byker on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:21:43
Post by: sorijealut on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:41:19
What a story... you can see the kind of behind the scenes work Matt3o had to bring this to us.
Big thanks!
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:41:41
And buy more (not less) than you committed to in IC phase.
I will try! :)
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:46:30
Post by: absyrd on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:50:37
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 20 May 2015, 18:46:39
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Wed, 20 May 2015, 18:50:46
Boooooooooooooo for all the nightmares of flipped ones I'll have... :p
NVM finished reading the op :-[
Post by: swill on Wed, 20 May 2015, 22:10:17
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 20 May 2015, 22:13:16
Can you put a link to the GB in the OP? I'm on tapatalk and can't see any topics I didn't participate in (dose bugs). Thx...
No GB thread yet. (I've been watching that instead of studying. :-\ ) I even checked Massdrop.
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:28:16
What if I didn't have red and light blue down but want them now? I can't find the form in the OP.
You will be able to alter your order later.
Can you put a link to the GB in the OP? I'm on tapatalk and can't see any topics I didn't participate in (dose bugs). Thx...
Almost there! We are refining the copy and adding pictures to the drop.
There will be 2 tiers, at 100 and 250 (orders not spacebars). If you don't confirm your order you'll put me in a very very unpleasant position with Massdrop... just saying...
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:30:16
Final price should be $15.50 for 2 spacebars! Plus shipping of course.Oh yeah, that price is good stuff!!! Thanks for getting this going and keeping us updated Matt3o!!!What if I didn't have red and light blue down but want them now? I can't find the form in the OP.
You will be able to alter your order later.Can you put a link to the GB in the OP? I'm on tapatalk and can't see any topics I didn't participate in (dose bugs). Thx...
Almost there! We are refining the copy and adding pictures to the drop.
There will be 2 tiers, at 100 and 250 (orders not spacebars). If you don't confirm your order you'll put me in a very very unpleasant position with Massdrop... just saying...
Post by: byker on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:49:11
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:52:15
We collected about 550 orders. I expect at least a 10% to resign, so let's say that if we get less than 500 orders I would be really disappointed :P
Color preference is as follow:
Red => 119
Sky Blue/Light Blue => 114
Medium gray => 104
Mint/Light Green => 93
Medium gray didn't make it for a whisker!
Community impact:
#1 Geekhack
#2 Reddit
#3 Deskthority
#4 KBDMania
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:59:30
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 02:00:51
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 21 May 2015, 02:20:38
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/topre-pbt-spacebar?mode=guest_open
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 02:28:21
Got 2 of everything
Post by: azhdar on Thu, 21 May 2015, 02:31:10
Post by: fanpeople on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:00:25
Post by: Air tree on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:03:22
Post by: trizkut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:06:45
13x light grey
3x dark grey
3x red
3x blue
let's tip this sucker!
Post by: ghostjuggernaut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:15:13
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:27:27
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:29:15
Light Gray + Blue would've been my choice, but I'm leaning towards LG + DG :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Post by: hrinfinity on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:59:42
Post by: Kinaesthetic on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:11:30
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:26:11
Post by: joric on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:28:53
Post by: jamster on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:31:44
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:34:46
Post by: nukec on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:55:23
Post by: Halverson on Thu, 21 May 2015, 05:57:00
Ordered 20 space bars. I will use them as chop sticks for sushi.
That's amazing :D
I'll place my order soon enough, need to get on an actual computer first!
Post by: atectatifern on Thu, 21 May 2015, 06:04:12
Post by: nmur on Thu, 21 May 2015, 06:36:01
Post by: a_ak57 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 07:28:42
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 21 May 2015, 07:35:58
IT'S LIVE!
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/topre-pbt-spacebar?mode=guest_open
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Game on! In for the combo pack and the 2xLight grey.
Matt3o, may I suggest another 'signature banner' to help spread the good word?
Post by: AKIMbO on Thu, 21 May 2015, 07:44:22
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 21 May 2015, 07:55:40
(http://i.imgur.com/2wPl57J.png)
upped my order from 8 to 10.
and just a heads up for everyone:
option 1:
3 x 1 light grey + 1 dark grey
1 x 1 light grey + 1 dark grey + 1 red + 1 blue
price = $85.66
option 2:
4 x 1 light grey + 1 dark grey
1 x 1 red + 1 blue
price = $95.85
option 3:
1 x 4 light grey + 4 dark grey
1 x 1 red + 1 blue
price = $79.68
as you can see, each option = 4 light grey, 4 dark grey, 1 red, 1 blue
each option has a different pricing, even though you'd be buying the exact same thing. (think about it when you order!)
also, 1 x 4 light grey + 4 dark grey is only a few (7) bucks more than 3 x 1 light grey + 1 dark grey, so..... (2 spacebars for $7)
edit: made a thread in the keyboard section on overclock.net. i don't think Topre is popular there, but why not :D
Post by: strict on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:04:37
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:07:19
So light gray will match an 87UW and dark grey will match an 87UB?
yes, that's right :)
Post by: strict on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:20:21
So light gray will match an 87UW and dark grey will match an 87UB?
yes, that's right :)
Thanks!
Order submitted for 2x dark gray and 2x light gray.
Post by: Belfong on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:29:33
So light gray will match an 87UW and dark grey will match an 87UB?
yes, that's right :)
Thanks!
Order submitted for 2x dark gray and 2x light gray.
And that also means that light gray match white HHKB caps and dark gray match black HHKB. Right?
Post by: Halverson on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:34:26
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:40:06
So light gray will match an 87UW and dark grey will match an 87UB?
yes, that's right :)
Thanks!
Order submitted for 2x dark gray and 2x light gray.
And that also means that light gray match white HHKB caps and dark gray match black HHKB. Right?
He said he did the best to match them, yes.
Post by: jerue on Thu, 21 May 2015, 08:50:02
Great job, matt3o and everyone.
(http://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/2013-09/enhanced/webdr06/24/17/anigif_enhanced-buzz-3461-1380057793-5.gif)
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 09:31:26
Don't wanna miss out~
Post by: jackiecanev2 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 09:40:24
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 21 May 2015, 09:55:10
Ten should be enough to get me through the end of the world, right?
I'd hope so. Pretty sure hhkb 5 will be out by then.
Post by: Dee1 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:03:35
Post by: Belfong on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:14:36
I'm unsure about the Light Blue and Red.
I was hoping for the Orange and Yellow to match my RF caps.. sigh...
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:17:38
198th participant here!
I'm unsure about the Light Blue and Red.
I was hoping for the Orange and Yellow to match my RF caps.. sigh...
Of course you were!
Get 6 extra whites and start practicing with idye.
Post by: Halverson on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:18:31
198th participant here!
I'm unsure about the Light Blue and Red.
I was hoping for the Orange and Yellow to match my RF caps.. sigh...
Of course you were!
Get 6 extra whites and start practicing with idye.
Yup, tons of dye jobs to come!
Post by: Belfong on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:20:02
hmmm.. good point!198th participant here!
I'm unsure about the Light Blue and Red.
I was hoping for the Orange and Yellow to match my RF caps.. sigh...
Of course you were!
Get 6 extra whites and start practicing with idye.
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:27:29
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:31:47
Matt3o, may I suggest another 'signature banner' to help spread the good word?
one at the time :)
Ordered 20 space bars. I will use them as chop sticks for sushi.
that the spirit! :)
Later I'll send the newsletter.
Post by: Bucake on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:38:53
198th participant here!
almost 90 purchases in a bit over 2 hours, not bad
Post by: CalvinW on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:53:34
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:54:37
Massdrop ****ing sucks. I placed an order and didn't even get a confirmation or anything, yet my paypal account has already been charged. I emailed them about it and got no response back. Now I need to open a dispute with paypal just to get my money back.
I'm not massdrop fan but sometimes it takes a little time before you get a confirmation email.....how long did you wait?
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 21 May 2015, 10:58:06
Post by: Vizir on Thu, 21 May 2015, 11:22:34
1×Options:1 Light Gray + 1 Dark Gray + 1 Red + 1 Blue (+$13)
1×Options:1 Light Gray + 1 Dark Gray
can't wait!
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 11:49:01
Just saved $3
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 11:49:11
(http://i.imgur.com/RXw9DlH.png)
Post by: wlhlm on Thu, 21 May 2015, 11:54:49
Welp, 250 orders was a breeze :DThese shipping costs to US... sigh.. :'(Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/RXw9DlH.png)
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:01:41
Welp, 250 orders was a breeze :DThese shipping costs to US... sigh.. :'(Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/RXw9DlH.png)
I should move...
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:05:05
:( Sorry guys! what is shipping like in Europe?Welp, 250 orders was a breeze :DThese shipping costs to US... sigh.. :'(Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/RXw9DlH.png)
I should move...
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:06:51
:( Sorry guys! what is shipping like in Europe?Welp, 250 orders was a breeze :DThese shipping costs to US... sigh.. :'(Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/RXw9DlH.png)
I should move...
Just shy of $7. It's actually fairly good for international shipping to be honest, usually Massdrop charge a lot more than that even for small items.
Sadly we pay a ton in import duty and taxes too, and Massdrop declares full value (and Ive heard sometimes MSRP) for items.
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:13:47
Thanks for doing this Matt3o! Looking forward to purchasing a Topre Board as soon as I get my first paycheck!
Post by: sorijealut on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:14:41
Just shy of $7. It's actually fairly good for international shipping to be honest, usually Massdrop charge a lot more than that even for small items.
Sadly we pay a ton in import duty and taxes too, and Massdrop declares full value (and Ive heard sometimes MSRP) for items.
Ahh, that's good that it's pretty tame compared to others. Hopefully massdrop can work towards lowering those costs.
Post by: MarkRobbo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:20:01
Just shy of $7. It's actually fairly good for international shipping to be honest, usually Massdrop charge a lot more than that even for small items.
Sadly we pay a ton in import duty and taxes too, and Massdrop declares full value (and Ive heard sometimes MSRP) for items.
Ahh, that's good that it's pretty tame compared to others. Hopefully massdrop can work towards lowering those costs.
They can't for legal reasons, as a business. Well, you are obviously not supposed to as an individual but it happens.
It's the ridiculousness of the shipping companies being able to charge a flat fee for payment of taxes which is the issue. I have paid for shipping already and then have to pay them a further flat fee of $15-20 just because they have to collect payment for HMRC (although they refuse to let you pay this yourself in any way and always pay it on your behalf to collect the fee instead)
Post by: CalvinW on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:34:04
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 21 May 2015, 12:36:40
Scopata un'anatra su un camion e ottenuto bloccato.
WTF google translate!
Post by: Dihedral on Thu, 21 May 2015, 13:17:12
Scopata un'anatra su un camion e ottenuto bloccato.
WTF google translate!
I had to try after you posted this. Sentiments echoed. Anyhow - awesome that this is going ahead. I'm going to remove this from the IC tracker but good work Matt3o for making this a reality :)
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 21 May 2015, 14:09:28
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 21 May 2015, 14:15:27
We're at 300 now, are those 300 people or 300 spacebars?
Neither. 300 kits.
Post by: a_ak57 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 14:16:17
We're at 300 now, are those 300 people or 300 spacebars?
edit: beaten to the punch.
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 21 May 2015, 14:34:32
Thanks.We're at 300 now, are those 300 people or 300 spacebars?
Neither. 300 kits.
Post by: atlas3686 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 15:58:49
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Thu, 21 May 2015, 16:18:44
Post by: wupi on Thu, 21 May 2015, 16:40:41
Post by: pr0ximity on Thu, 21 May 2015, 16:53:44
EDIT: Also, the ordering on these is wonky. Why can't I get a light gray + red?
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 21 May 2015, 21:39:28
Should probably be a thread in the GB forum? I didn't even know these were live until I saw them in a Massdrop email.
EDIT: Also, the ordering on these is wonky. Why can't I get a light gray + red?
You can... you just need to buy 4 space bars :))
Post by: nukec on Thu, 21 May 2015, 21:53:17
Post by: kaminbobby on Fri, 22 May 2015, 00:06:07
Post by: Bomble on Fri, 22 May 2015, 00:06:52
400 bought in 1 day. hype!
And that's 400 kits too, so at least 800 bars!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 22 May 2015, 01:16:54
Post by: Findecanor on Fri, 22 May 2015, 01:42:00
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 22 May 2015, 01:52:01
I would have bought from Matt3o, but I am not going to buy from Massdrop. F*** Massdrop!
yeah Fück the system!
Post by: Evo_Spec on Fri, 22 May 2015, 01:57:54
Who are these being manufactured by? I only see "China"
Post by: Kinaesthetic on Fri, 22 May 2015, 02:57:19
Post by: Vizir on Fri, 22 May 2015, 03:04:05
thanks everybody for making this a successful buy! It took us months to square this circle, but at the end it is paying off. Don't get too exited though... we are still far from the target. People ordered less than the "purchase intent" on an average so far... but anyway at this pace there shouldn't be any problem.
:confused: Strange. I put down 2 in the intent form, and ended up buying 6, just in case. Who knows when this will happen again...
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 22 May 2015, 03:24:03
Sorry if it was discussed somewhere but I couldn't find it on the MD page and the OP.
Who are these being manufactured by? I only see "China"
It's a new manufacturer we've found. it's not one of the usual suspects
Care to share the MOQ for the spacebars Matt3o? Got the email that you sent out and it said it was an incredibly high MOQ. Hopefully it isn't TOO high that we cannot reach it. I did my part getting 4, but I'm worried just a bit that we may or may not make the MOQ.
that technically would be 1000 per color, at least for black and white. We will proceed even if we fall shorter but of course that won't be... pleasant.
Post by: yogrt on Fri, 22 May 2015, 04:53:03
Happy happy joy joy!!
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/topre-pbt-spacebar?mode=guest_open (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/topre-pbt-spacebar?mode=guest_open)
:thumb:
Post by: Latin00032 on Fri, 22 May 2015, 04:55:27
That sounds high. Hopefully, we order enough. I think I should order more to be safe anyway.Sorry if it was discussed somewhere but I couldn't find it on the MD page and the OP.
Who are these being manufactured by? I only see "China"
It's a new manufacturer we've found. it's not one of the usual suspectsCare to share the MOQ for the spacebars Matt3o? Got the email that you sent out and it said it was an incredibly high MOQ. Hopefully it isn't TOO high that we cannot reach it. I did my part getting 4, but I'm worried just a bit that we may or may not make the MOQ.
that technically would be 1000 per color, at least for black and white. We will proceed even if we fall shorter but of course that won't be... pleasant.
Who is going to pay off the rest if we dont meet moq for certain colors?
Post by: invisuu on Fri, 22 May 2015, 06:42:42
Post by: TopreFan333 on Fri, 22 May 2015, 09:52:03
Should probably be a thread in the GB forum? I didn't even know these were live until I saw them in a Massdrop email.
EDIT: Also, the ordering on these is wonky. Why can't I get a light gray + red?
You can... you just need to buy 4 space bars :))
And you know there will be a robust color-trading thread once the dust settles.
Post by: tkim on Fri, 22 May 2015, 09:59:19
Bought - 4
Well done Matt3o
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 22 May 2015, 10:11:12
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 22 May 2015, 10:43:28
I don't want to jack the props that matt3o should be getting from this, but if he doesn't change the name of the thread + add it to the GB forum, I'm gonna have to do it. :p
Whoever wants to make it, I'm ready to approve it! :P
People ordered less than the "purchase intent" on an average so far... but anyway at this pace there shouldn't be any problem.
I still don't know how many I "intended" to purchase, but I believe I ordered more than I put on the intent form. Also, are you taking into account that some people signed up for other colors? Hopefully you're not counting those as "intents" for the four production colors.
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 22 May 2015, 10:47:17
I don't want to jack the props that matt3o should be getting from this, but if he doesn't change the name of the thread + add it to the GB forum, I'm gonna have to do it. :p
Whoever wants to make it, I'm ready to approve it! :P
Thread made. And I gave Matt3o all the credit he deserves, I hope.
Post by: RoflCopter4 on Fri, 22 May 2015, 10:56:53
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 22 May 2015, 10:58:49
If you can answer this, what is the profit margin for an individual spacebar? How much do the materials and labour cost? Knowing that, how many would you need to sell just to break even on the molds? Is that where you get the "1000 of each colour" total?
The MOQ likely comes straight from the manufacturer, not Matt3o or MassDrop. And the manufacturer is not going to share those numbers. :P
Post by: Vizir on Fri, 22 May 2015, 14:25:42
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Fri, 22 May 2015, 14:54:05
Isn't most of the cost for the mold? How do colors make any difference to the mold? Just pour any colored plastic into the mold... unless you're talking about matching a specific color (i guess)
I assume that even though it sounds simple, it takes a lot of time/setup to change colours. Which equals cost.
Post by: hcwt on Fri, 22 May 2015, 15:22:11
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 22 May 2015, 16:19:36
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 22 May 2015, 17:45:33
Isn't most of the cost for the mold? How do colors make any difference to the mold? Just pour any colored plastic into the mold... unless you're talking about matching a specific color (i guess)
I assume that even though it sounds simple, it takes a lot of time/setup to change colours. Which equals cost.
guys it's much more complicated than that :)
lol yeah it's more complicated. :P In addition to the non-production hurdles, it's not as simple as dumping a new resin in. You have to flush the old resin out (waste + time), order enough of the resin to get the price point you want (may require over-producing or storing extra inventory, etc), and potentially more.
Yes, the bulk of the capital investment is the mold (I'm assuming), but that's not the only cost associated with this project or producing these caps. And when you talk about an MOQ for a specific color, the above factors all come into play to some extent (and possibly additional factors, I don't know their facility).
Post by: Dee1 on Fri, 22 May 2015, 17:47:05
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 22 May 2015, 19:38:52
Purchase intent - 2
Bought - 4
Well done Matt3o
Onya tkim :thumb: .
My Purchase Intent was for 4 of Everything.
Bought 4 of Everything.
No confusion or mistaking the amount needed for the Thorpies in my Life, we owe you heaps Matt.
Post by: Sturmfrau on Fri, 22 May 2015, 20:17:11
Post by: Belfong on Fri, 22 May 2015, 20:20:04
I'm sure to buy 4 (2 light gray + 2 dark gray), can we get an option to 2 red?You can add more in the Mass Drop form.
Red space bar looked damn sexy on a black HHKB. Do it!
Post by: Sturmfrau on Fri, 22 May 2015, 20:43:28
I'm sure to buy 4 (2 light gray + 2 dark gray), can we get an option to 2 red?You can add more in the Mass Drop form.
Red space bar looked damn sexy on a black HHKB. Do it!
I don't know how to hahaha this is the first time I'm ordering from massdrop. Here's the only thing I see http://prntscr.com/78b4od
Post by: Belfong on Fri, 22 May 2015, 21:44:45
I'm sure to buy 4 (2 light gray + 2 dark gray), can we get an option to 2 red?You can add more in the Mass Drop form.
Red space bar looked damn sexy on a black HHKB. Do it!
I don't know how to hahaha this is the first time I'm ordering from massdrop. Here's the only thing I see http://prntscr.com/78b4od
No, I’m dumb. I just bought the blue and red kit. Didn’t realize that there was no individual red option. Probably Matt3o can answer.
Post by: do_Og@n on Fri, 22 May 2015, 23:42:39
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 22 May 2015, 23:49:24
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=72127.0
Post by: invisuu on Mon, 25 May 2015, 06:20:12
Post by: snoopy on Mon, 25 May 2015, 06:24:20
Post by: absyrd on Mon, 25 May 2015, 06:24:41
OK - I'll be that guy and do the stupid question time. You can only buy them in pairs, right? I.e. if I order quantity 1 of 1light+1dark grey, I get 2 space bars?
Yes. Packages of 2.
Post by: Cods on Mon, 25 May 2015, 07:10:03
Should be a nice splash of colour on the FC660C... leaving me three extras as that's my only Topre keyboard.
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 25 May 2015, 07:50:26
If we reach around 4000 spacebars (bold but still feasible) it might be possible to get a discount. So keep ordering.
Post by: monni on Mon, 25 May 2015, 08:18:16
Post by: oscillik on Mon, 25 May 2015, 09:39:45
thanks guys! So far we sold about 1900 spacebars! This means that the expectation has been met (we sold approx 2200 in the purchase intent, but I was expecting a 10% less orders).
If we reach around 4000 spacebars (bold but still feasible) it might be possible to get a discount. So keep ordering.
glad to hear that it's going so well!
Post by: Bucake on Mon, 25 May 2015, 10:29:15
thanks guys! So far we sold about 1900 spacebars! This means that the expectation has been met (we sold approx 2200 in the purchase intent, but I was expecting a 10% less orders).
If we reach around 4000 spacebars (bold but still feasible) it might be possible to get a discount. So keep ordering.
good to hear, thanks for the update :)
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 25 May 2015, 17:04:39
Just got my first Topre board and ordered one of each :cool:.
Welcome to Geekhack!
Did you join mainly to participate in this group buy?
Post by: ideus on Mon, 25 May 2015, 17:06:21
thanks guys! So far we sold about 1900 spacebars! This means that the expectation has been met (we sold approx 2200 in the purchase intent, but I was expecting a 10% less orders).
If we reach around 4000 spacebars (bold but still feasible) it might be possible to get a discount. So keep ordering.
Does that count include vendor's orders?
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 26 May 2015, 00:46:08
thanks guys! So far we sold about 1900 spacebars! This means that the expectation has been met (we sold approx 2200 in the purchase intent, but I was expecting a 10% less orders).
If we reach around 4000 spacebars (bold but still feasible) it might be possible to get a discount. So keep ordering.
Does that count include vendor's orders?
I doubt there are any vendors there.
Post by: wlhlm on Tue, 26 May 2015, 01:55:15
Maybe EK will pick some up ;)thanks guys! So far we sold about 1900 spacebars! This means that the expectation has been met (we sold approx 2200 in the purchase intent, but I was expecting a 10% less orders).
If we reach around 4000 spacebars (bold but still feasible) it might be possible to get a discount. So keep ordering.
Does that count include vendor's orders?
I doubt there are any vendors there.
Post by: invisuu on Tue, 26 May 2015, 03:14:24
OK - I'll be that guy and do the stupid question time. You can only buy them in pairs, right? I.e. if I order quantity 1 of 1light+1dark grey, I get 2 space bars?
Yes. Packages of 2.
Thanks, thought as much, but never hurts to ask just to make sure, I suppose. I will also be ordering more than the intent in a couple of hours.
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 29 May 2015, 22:22:21
Still wonder if there are 2200 Topres in existence around the globe...?
:p
Post by: Gaspar on Sat, 30 May 2015, 17:25:04
Post by: dwk396 on Sat, 30 May 2015, 19:09:24
I ordered 6 bars, a bit more than planned. Got 1 of each color and an extra blue + red set.
Thats what I wanted to do...ahhh I just ordered 1 red and blue set
Post by: esoomenona on Sat, 30 May 2015, 19:12:49
Post by: Air tree on Sat, 30 May 2015, 19:46:13
Somehow ended up with 10 or 12 spacebars, and that was after telling myself to remove some from my order since I didn't need them all at once and hopefully another run would be made in the future. Hoping this isn't a one time deal. Is it? I could modify my order. ...I don't doubt you should be able to sell the extras with relative ease. I'm guessing some people will have held out and then felt remorse for not joining and will look for them on the classifieds.
Post by: dwk396 on Sat, 30 May 2015, 19:59:44
Man, you sounds like talking about me. I think I am gonna order two more, grey and dark grey.Somehow ended up with 10 or 12 spacebars, and that was after telling myself to remove some from my order since I didn't need them all at once and hopefully another run would be made in the future. Hoping this isn't a one time deal. Is it? I could modify my order. ...I don't doubt you should be able to sell the extras with relative ease. I'm guessing some people will have held out and then felt remorse for not joining and will look for them on the classifieds.
Post by: dante on Sat, 30 May 2015, 20:29:46
I want to guess and say no - since none of the other keycaps are interchangeable; but looking at the photos the spacebars look very similar between the HiPro/Non-HiPro.
Post by: litster on Wed, 03 June 2015, 01:08:15
Post by: Elrick on Wed, 03 June 2015, 04:45:05
Does anyone know if the spacebar works with the HiPro?
Different profiles, so sorry not the same in height at all.
Time to get some NORMAL 55g thorpies instead 8) .
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Wed, 03 June 2015, 22:05:43
Post by: ileben on Tue, 21 July 2015, 00:33:11
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 21 July 2015, 00:36:45
Post by: byker on Tue, 21 July 2015, 03:24:01
End of July the bar should be ready
Yay! Thanks matt3o :)
Post by: a_ak57 on Tue, 21 July 2015, 07:28:30
End of July the bar should be ready
By that do you mean they'll be ready to produce en masse (after quality is finalized) and then they'll be shipped to MD sometime afterward, or that they're currently being produced and MD will have them by the end of the month?
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 22 July 2015, 01:41:05
Post by: _PixelNinja on Wed, 22 July 2015, 10:46:29
Post by: rf87 on Fri, 24 July 2015, 03:00:49
Post by: just66in on Sun, 26 July 2015, 17:30:03
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 27 July 2015, 01:46:14
Post by: TastaturenAuslese on Mon, 27 July 2015, 02:54:12
I might have some pre-production for sale. They are 100% working but the final product will have slightly better color matching and it will possibly be a pinch thicker. The pre-production will be of course pretty cheap.
Oh yay! Definitely would want to pick one up for my HHKB. How do I go about doing that?
Post by: muddles17 on Tue, 04 August 2015, 12:22:50
Post by: oscillik on Tue, 04 August 2015, 12:30:04
I would love to register interest for a PBT Space-bar. Looks like I became interested in it a few months too late.don't worry, it's highly likely that this will go up on massdrop again.
Post by: XMIT on Tue, 04 August 2015, 16:15:29
Post by: proselytiser on Sat, 19 September 2015, 02:06:26
Post by: KnivesM on Sat, 19 September 2015, 02:09:01
So bummed that I missed out on this one. Anyone has a black one or two to sell, please PM me.Check with Matt3o, he was selling pre-production samples that he got when checking the quality in the classifieds.
Post by: byker on Sat, 19 September 2015, 12:15:50
So bummed that I missed out on this one. Anyone has a black one or two to sell, please PM me.
I might have one black one to sell, check in after they are shipped out. But I live in Canada so it would probably be cheaper to find someone in conus.
Post by: swimmingbird on Tue, 29 September 2015, 10:09:25
Considering that there was a minimum order, and that many folks will get 2-4 of these - I suspect there will be a nice aftermarket in the short term. :)
I'd be kind of surprised if one of the major vendors hadn't picked up quite a few
This is something that EK should really carry on a regular basis
Post by: a_ak57 on Tue, 29 September 2015, 10:27:24
Anyway, got my black spacebar on my work board and it looks basically identical to the rest of the keys. All hail matt3o.
Post by: swimmingbird on Tue, 29 September 2015, 10:43:20
IIRC, EK said they wouldn't be involved with this because they thought the cost per bar was too expensive or something.
Anyway, got my black spacebar on my work board and it looks basically identical to the rest of the keys. All hail matt3o.
They would have been the perfect place to carry them as well :'(
Post by: invisuu on Wed, 21 October 2015, 02:34:10
Considering that there was a minimum order, and that many folks will get 2-4 of these - I suspect there will be a nice aftermarket in the short term. :)
I'd be kind of surprised if one of the major vendors hadn't picked up quite a few
This is something that EK should really carry on a regular basis
No, they're against the idea that the customers have to pay for the mold, since while it costs a lot at first, the owner gets to make keys at a profit once he has it. Since everyone paid for it, everyone should be a part owner of it, which we didn't get.
That said, I no caer i luv it. My space bars om nom nom.
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 30 November 2015, 15:48:48
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 30 November 2015, 16:58:49
IIRC, EK said they wouldn't be involved with this because they thought the cost per bar was too expensive or something.
Anyway, got my black spacebar on my work board and it looks basically identical to the rest of the keys. All hail matt3o.
They would have been the perfect place to carry them as well :'(
BULLSH1T, far better to keep them where they are on MassDrop, giving everyone throughout the world easy access.
EK is best left alone, if Mechanical Keyboards could supply it then go jump on it when available but buying anything off that clown Brian, deserves a kick in the head >:D .
Post by: Macsmasher on Thu, 10 December 2015, 19:34:13
IIRC, EK said they wouldn't be involved with this because they thought the cost per bar was too expensive or something.
Anyway, got my black spacebar on my work board and it looks basically identical to the rest of the keys. All hail matt3o.
They would have been the perfect place to carry them as well :'(
BULLSH1T, far better to keep them where they are on MassDrop, giving everyone throughout the world easy access.
EK is best left alone, if Mechanical Keyboards could supply it then go jump on it when available but buying anything off that clown Brian, deserves a kick in the head >:D .
Sounds like somebody needs to take a Midol. I've dealt with Brian for years, both as a consumer and professionally, writing software for his company as a contractor. He's always been great to deal with on both levels.
If you're going to make statements like that, expect guys like me to stand up and say your just being a whiny *****. You're being a whiny *****.
Post by: stoic-lemon on Fri, 11 December 2015, 05:49:05
IIRC, EK said they wouldn't be involved with this because they thought the cost per bar was too expensive or something.
Anyway, got my black spacebar on my work board and it looks basically identical to the rest of the keys. All hail matt3o.
They would have been the perfect place to carry them as well :'(
BULLSH1T, far better to keep them where they are on MassDrop, giving everyone throughout the world easy access.
EK is best left alone, if Mechanical Keyboards could supply it then go jump on it when available but buying anything off that clown Brian, deserves a kick in the head >:D .
Sounds like somebody needs to take a Midol. I've dealt with Brian for years, both as a consumer and professionally, writing software for his company as a contractor. He's always been great to deal with on both levels.
If you're going to make statements like that, expect guys like me to stand up and say your just being a whiny *****. You're being a whiny *****.
I think we are well past Midol.
Post by: billm on Thu, 31 December 2015, 22:15:02
Post by: fanpeople on Thu, 31 December 2015, 22:53:34
I clicked to request the next massdrop but I'm not a huge fan of waiting. Anybody willing to part with a black or red PBT spacebar? This will fit the 86u too yeah?
I have a red one that I will never use. But I am in Australia so depending on where you are postage might be a bit of a deal breaker.
Post by: Olumin on Thu, 07 January 2016, 21:00:27
Is anybody here willing to sell me his black or white PBT space bar that fits onto a HHKB Pro 2?
With black/white I mean the the ones that match the colours of the white or black HHKB Pro 2.
Just contact me if you are interested in selling yours to me.
Post by: ideus on Thu, 07 January 2016, 21:03:13
I'm not certain if there will ever be one of these for sale again, so I'm just asking here;
Is anybody here willing to sell me his black or white PBT space bar that fits onto a HHKB Pro 2?
With black/white I mean the the ones that match the colours of the white or black HHKB Pro 2.
Just contact me if you are interested in selling yours to me.
This type of post belongs to the classifieds sub-forum, you'd better read its rules.
Post by: mashby on Fri, 08 January 2016, 10:17:45
Post by: pr1me on Fri, 08 January 2016, 11:19:46
Post by: rowdy on Fri, 08 January 2016, 20:13:40
Agreed. I think you'll have better luck creating a [WTB] post in the classifieds. :thumb:
... once the minimum requirements are met ;)
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 09 January 2016, 12:47:27
Post by: rainb1ood on Sat, 09 January 2016, 18:04:30
Post by: Otesanek on Fri, 26 February 2016, 15:01:50
if people are okay with pre-production samples I still have a bunch. PM me.
Is there a major quality difference? I might be interested. :)
*edit: Lol, nvm that post was from like 2 months ago...
Post by: Otesanek on Thu, 03 March 2016, 02:29:41
Post by: zeta on Fri, 11 March 2016, 17:08:59
Post by: Otesanek on Fri, 11 March 2016, 17:19:27
Will this be run again?
It seems like Massdrop still has a bunch, but they only seem to want to bundle them with Realforces.... :( :(
Post by: spfft on Mon, 28 March 2016, 19:51:09
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 11 May 2016, 02:35:14
Post by: Elrick on Wed, 11 May 2016, 02:52:39
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
Every single person starts posting on MassDrop, where is Matt3o's PBT spacebars?
When they do eventually just run the PBT spacers, suspect another 1000+ orders shall present itself.
Post by: LunarisDream on Wed, 11 May 2016, 03:33:04
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
Every single person starts posting on MassDrop, where is Matt3o's PBT spacebars?
When they do eventually just run the PBT spacers, suspect another 1000+ orders shall present itself.
So sayeth the Hype Master.
Post by: the_marsbar on Thu, 12 May 2016, 04:30:17
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
Any idea when, and which colors besides white and black?
Post by: effectiveduck on Thu, 12 May 2016, 04:42:16
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
pure black would be awesome
Post by: absyrd on Thu, 12 May 2016, 04:52:22
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
Thank goodness. I gave away a ton of these and still get asked. Somehow I only ended up with one white one after over-promising hahaha. And we have 2 hhkb in the house. Ooops.
Post by: waone567 on Thu, 12 May 2016, 04:55:01
Post by: rotciveel on Thu, 12 May 2016, 09:06:37
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 12 May 2016, 09:11:00
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
Wonderful news. Now I just need a Topre board ;)
Post by: Diokhan on Thu, 12 May 2016, 09:12:30
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
the messiah has returned with spacebars
Post by: Sneaky Potato on Thu, 12 May 2016, 09:46:59
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
the messiah has returned with spacebars
It is known. The council has spoken. It has been foretold.
Post by: dunglefinker on Thu, 12 May 2016, 09:54:48
Post by: hippiepete on Thu, 12 May 2016, 10:26:00
thanks in advance
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 12 May 2016, 10:52:24
can we get a green spacebar?
Step one: Buy white Spacebar
Step two: Dye white spacebar to the shade of green you like
Step three: ??????
Stop four: Profit!
Green has a very broad color range, which is why many don't offer them (I don't know if they will or will not be offered here though). Lime Green and Army Green are both green (okay granted this example is a bit over the top, but I hope you get the point), but they just feel completely different. There are shades of green that remind of nature, but there also are shades of green that remind of danger (toxic green anyone?).
Just my 2 cents though.
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 12 May 2016, 12:56:44
Post by: romevi on Thu, 12 May 2016, 14:03:07
we might have green and pink
:cool:
Post by: nukec on Fri, 13 May 2016, 04:19:11
Post by: mteinum on Fri, 13 May 2016, 05:09:13
massdrop green?
I want a Festool-green
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 13 May 2016, 14:19:52
we might have green and pink
Thank you!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 14 May 2016, 06:16:22
we might have green and pink
Aww, no yellow :(
Post by: shadowdude777 on Sat, 14 May 2016, 08:45:39
we will run more in different colors (+white and black)
You also mentioned possibly green + pink. Does that mean that you won't run the red or blue again?
Post by: JorisBoers on Sun, 15 May 2016, 17:20:42
-GB will start really soon (few hours)GB just started!
Doesn't seem started though T-T
Post by: kawasaki161 on Sun, 15 May 2016, 17:42:32
I'll just advice you to check the date of the post again, I doubt that a group buy will be open for 1,5 years.
-GB will start really soon (few hours)GB just started!
Doesn't seem started though T-T
The one you are refering to already ended long ago
Post by: Air tree on Sun, 15 May 2016, 17:43:02
Because that's from last year. :))
-GB will start really soon (few hours)GB just started!
Doesn't seem started though T-T
Post by: JorisBoers on Mon, 16 May 2016, 03:46:29
I'll just advice you to check the date of the post again, I doubt that a group buy will be open for 1,5 years.
-GB will start really soon (few hours)GB just started!
Doesn't seem started though T-T
The one you are refering to already ended long ago
Derp, sorry for this screw up..
Because that's from last year. :))
-GB will start really soon (few hours)GB just started!
Doesn't seem started though T-T
Too bad, I got really excited for a bit and now dreams are crushed ;-;
Post by: rotciveel on Wed, 18 May 2016, 13:43:33
Post by: ika on Wed, 18 May 2016, 13:44:16
Everytime I look for this thread and see NOW LIVE! I get so excited... :-\ :-\
I got baited by your post pushing to top of spy -_-
Post by: rotciveel on Wed, 18 May 2016, 13:46:38
Everytime I look for this thread and see NOW LIVE! I get so excited... :-\ :-\
I got baited by your post pushing to top of spy -_-
Oops :p
I can't suffer alone!
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 18 May 2016, 14:45:11
Everytime I look for this thread and see NOW LIVE! I get so excited... :-\ :-\
I got baited by your post pushing to top of spy -_-
Oops :p
I can't suffer alone!
Suffer no more! Thread title has been updated. Let's put this thread to rest now. :P
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Wed, 18 May 2016, 18:34:03
Everytime I look for this thread and see NOW LIVE! I get so excited... :-\ :-\
I got baited by your post pushing to top of spy -_-
I have two of these PBT space bars
One is Red naturally and does not fit ...no matter how many times i have reseated it.
The second was white and was dyed Blue and also does not fit no matter how many times i reseated it
Tried both on two different HHKB did not fit either properly just kept sticking down...finally gave up and they both sit in my drawer now.
Post by: rainb1ood on Thu, 19 May 2016, 11:53:08
Thanks hoffEverytime I look for this thread and see NOW LIVE! I get so excited... :-\ :-\
I got baited by your post pushing to top of spy -_-
Oops
I can't suffer alone!
Suffer no more! Thread title has been updated. Let's put this thread to rest now.
Post by: breaker9691 on Thu, 19 May 2016, 15:09:08
Post by: fuzzycuffs on Mon, 23 May 2016, 23:00:22
Post by: Beca on Tue, 24 May 2016, 22:16:04
If there's never going to be an R2, anyone with a black one willing to part with it? :)http://www.keyboardco.com/product/topre-space-bar-black.asp
Not PBT, but it's cheap and it'll last ya a while at least :p
Post by: fuzzycuffs on Thu, 26 May 2016, 20:47:41
If there's never going to be an R2, anyone with a black one willing to part with it? :)http://www.keyboardco.com/product/topre-space-bar-black.asp
Not PBT, but it's cheap and it'll last ya a while at least :p
I already have an ABS spacebar. ;) I just want all the keys on my Realforce to be PBT.
Post by: Suruga Devil on Sun, 29 May 2016, 11:55:38
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Sun, 29 May 2016, 12:14:07
Can anyone price check one of these bars for me? I have a blue bar from this drop that I'd be willing to part with, but considering that there won't be another one of these drops, I'm hoping to get a good price for it.
I can tell you i nabbed two semi recently on Ebay at $12.99 EA
One Original Red
One that was white and hand dyed Blue
highest i saw sell recently was $24
So not exactly worth a ton as of moment judging by Ebay standards at least.
Post by: Suruga Devil on Sun, 29 May 2016, 12:18:02
Can anyone price check one of these bars for me? I have a blue bar from this drop that I'd be willing to part with, but considering that there won't be another one of these drops, I'm hoping to get a good price for it.
I can tell you i nabbed two semi recently on Ebay at $12.99 EA
One Original Red
One that was white and hand dyed Blue
highest i saw sell recently was $24
So not exactly worth a ton as of moment judging by Ebay standards at least.
Dang. I guess I'll hold onto it as an investment. Thanks for the info.
Post by: the_marsbar on Mon, 30 May 2016, 09:48:03
Can anyone price check one of these bars for me? I have a blue bar from this drop that I'd be willing to part with, but considering that there won't be another one of these drops, I'm hoping to get a good price for it.
Who says there won't be another drop? I haven't read that anywhere.
Post by: kawasaki161 on Mon, 30 May 2016, 11:33:25
Can anyone price check one of these bars for me? I have a blue bar from this drop that I'd be willing to part with, but considering that there won't be another one of these drops, I'm hoping to get a good price for it.
Who says there won't be another drop? I haven't read that anywhere.
Didn't matt3o even confirm that there soon will be another one?
Post by: Suruga Devil on Mon, 30 May 2016, 15:38:05
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Mon, 30 May 2016, 15:40:36
A. I finally got my Red PBT spacebar to fit properly (Thanks again for matt3o for your assistance with that)
B. I grabbed a Red one when i had the chance on Ebay at a VERY cheap price since it fit my other non stock keys color wise perfectly.
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 July 2016, 02:02:36
Also two wew colors available.
- green
- orange
- red
- light blue
- white (light gray)
- black (dark gray)
Warm your wallet!
Post by: swimmingbird on Thu, 14 July 2016, 02:08:25
A second group buy of PBT Topre spacebars will start as soon as tomorrow!
New colors available:
- green
- orange
- red
- light blue
- white (light gray)
- black (dark gray)
:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
Warm your wallet!
Post by: nmur on Thu, 14 July 2016, 02:13:21
A second group buy of PBT Topre spacebars will start as soon as tomorrow!
New colors available:
- green
- orange
- red
- light blue
- white (light gray)
- black (dark gray)
Warm your wallet!
oh ****
brb selling my current spacebars on /r/mm for loads of dosh
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 14 July 2016, 03:03:45
Post by: WNovizar on Thu, 14 July 2016, 03:29:21
A second group buy of PBT Topre spacebars will start as soon as tomorrow!
New colors available:
- green
- orange
- red
- light blue
- white (light gray)
- black (dark gray)
Warm your wallet!
Does that mean old colors won't be available on the second run?
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 July 2016, 04:10:56
Post by: Delete on Thu, 14 July 2016, 04:32:53
pink color is cut ?
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 14 July 2016, 05:46:39
new colors are green and orange. everything else stays the same.
And these will STILL be Realforce Colours or Not?
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 July 2016, 05:49:22
new colors are green and orange. everything else stays the same.
And these will STILL be Realforce Colours or Not?
yes they are color matched
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 14 July 2016, 06:11:50
A second group buy of PBT Topre spacebars will start as soon as tomorrow!
Also two wew colors available.
- green
- orange
- red
- light blue
- white (light gray)
- black (dark gray)
Warm your wallet!
Does this deserve a new thread of its pwn?
Post by: dgneo on Thu, 14 July 2016, 07:19:31
A second group buy of PBT Topre spacebars will start as soon as tomorrow!
Also two wew colors available.
- green
- orange
- red
- light blue
- white (light gray)
- black (dark gray)
Warm your wallet!
(https://media.giphy.com/media/amkxRknWsbWtG/giphy.gif)
Post by: cmd on Thu, 14 July 2016, 07:45:42
Post by: Halverson on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:08:01
Post by: Lansky on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:13:01
I just put down my order. :)
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:25:52
Post by: RobotMalcolmX on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:33:19
HYPE!
Post by: xtrafrood on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:33:38
Post by: romevi on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:37:54
Post by: a_ak57 on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:46:00
Post by: ReverbSlush on Thu, 14 July 2016, 08:50:20
Joined it!
HYPE!
I'm still new here. How would I go about joining this?
EDIT: FOUND IT ! massdrop...
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:00:46
It's currently on Massdrop.Joined it!
HYPE!
I'm still new here. How would I go about joining this?
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:00:51
Got some in the first drop and love them. Someone even offered to buy my blue one off me for $35 so I'm glad those desperate people are going to get a chance to stock up on the fine spacebars.
[rant]
The 'drops' in price and the MOQ make no sense at all. If there 250 white spacebar purchases (which are in pairs, so 500?) get made, I can get green ones for cheaper...? If 1000 total purchases are made (which means pairs, so 2k spacebars are made?!) there's no lower price drop? I feel like they never put a low-low tier on the drops any more from a fear of people committing to that and then having the chance that it doesn't drop. That kinda goes against the ethos of it being a place for people to pool money on-mass to get the lowest prices. They pretty much just put the $16.49 price bracket to give the illusion that you are making some savings. Everyone knows this will easily bust 250 purchases.
[/rant]
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:02:23
Joined it!
HYPE!
I'm still new here. How would I go about joining this?
EDIT: FOUND IT ! massdrop...
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/topre-pbt-spacebar?mode=guest_open (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/topre-pbt-spacebar?mode=guest_open)
For anyone else who doesn't know :thumb:
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:05:01
[rant]
The 'drops' in price and the MOQ make no sense at all. If there 250 white spacebar purchases (which are in pairs, so 500?) get made, I can get green ones for cheaper...? If 1000 total purchases are made (which means pairs, so 2k spacebars are made?!) there's no lower price drop? I feel like they never put a low-low tier on the drops any more from a fear of people committing to that and then having the chance that it doesn't drop. That kinda goes against the ethos of it being a place for people to pool money on-mass to get the lowest prices. They pretty much just put the $16.49 price bracket to give the illusion that you are making some savings. Everyone knows this will easily bust 250 purchases.
[/rant]
I kinda hope for a hidden pricedrop like on the GMK Carbon set (I'm pretty sure the $105 option wasn't there at the beginning), not because I think this is too expensive, but because I want to get 2 sets without having to pay customs :)
Post by: thatsmrdoctortoyou on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:35:12
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Thu, 14 July 2016, 09:39:15
[rant]
The 'drops' in price and the MOQ make no sense at all. If there 250 white spacebar purchases (which are in pairs, so 500?) get made, I can get green ones for cheaper...? If 1000 total purchases are made (which means pairs, so 2k spacebars are made?!) there's no lower price drop? I feel like they never put a low-low tier on the drops any more from a fear of people committing to that and then having the chance that it doesn't drop. That kinda goes against the ethos of it being a place for people to pool money on-mass to get the lowest prices. They pretty much just put the $16.49 price bracket to give the illusion that you are making some savings. Everyone knows this will easily bust 250 purchases.
[/rant]
I kinda hope for a hidden pricedrop like on the GMK Carbon set (I'm pretty sure the $105 option wasn't there at the beginning), not because I think this is too expensive, but because I want to get 2 sets without having to pay customs :)
Maybe! I put my order in early, then I get time to cancel it if i change my mind before the end. Thats my tactic to avoid the 'Massdrop R2' disappointment where they split up the drop ship... :))
Post by: kawasaki161 on Thu, 14 July 2016, 10:03:11
Maybe! I put my order in early, then I get time to cancel it if i change my mind before the end. Thats my tactic to avoid the 'Massdrop R2' disappointment where they split up the drop ship... :))
If you didn't put in any of the new colors there might even be a chance that you get very early shipping, even before the rest is shipped since they still have a few from the first drop. At least that is what happened to me on one of the Gateron switch drops. I did however put in new colors on this drop. I'm so hyped for good quality PBT spacebars as the ones from Aliexpress required some filing of the stem and don't really have the straightest edges.
Post by: dario on Fri, 15 July 2016, 14:33:51
I wonder what exactly kind of "red" this spacebar is supposed to be?
"True" topre red is the kind of red that can be bought occasionaly on ebay from widebasket, here is a ESC (http://www.ebay.com/itm/REALFORCE-Key-Cap-ESC-for-Realforce-HHKB-Pro-FC660C-Topre-English-PBT-Red-/281428117220?hash=item41866c46e4:g:khgAAOSw7NNUAfSC) key for example.
Also, he was selling complete UK keysets in red for awhile, but as far as I can see these are not availabile at the moment.
There is also slightly miscoulored kind of red that is sold on elitekeybords, I'm talking about something like this (https://elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=access,toprekeys&pid=pd_kb400kt01).
Is the red PBT spacebar "real topre" red of miscoloured topre red?
I already have a red ESC key, It'd be great if it would perfectly fit with my new red spacebar.
Post by: ideus on Fri, 15 July 2016, 15:10:07
There's too much text to read in this whole thread so pardon me if somebody already answered what I'm about to ask.
I wonder what exactly kind of "red" this spacebar is supposed to be?
"True" topre red is the kind of red that can be bought occasionaly on ebay from widebasket, here is a ESC (http://www.ebay.com/itm/REALFORCE-Key-Cap-ESC-for-Realforce-HHKB-Pro-FC660C-Topre-English-PBT-Red-/281428117220?hash=item41866c46e4:g:khgAAOSw7NNUAfSC) key for example.
Also, he was selling complete UK keysets in red for awhile, but as far as I can see these are not availabile at the moment.
There is also slightly miscoulored kind of red that is sold on elitekeybords, I'm talking about something like this (https://elitekeyboards.com/products.php?sub=access,toprekeys&pid=pd_kb400kt01).
Is the red PBT spacebar "real topre" red of miscoloured topre red?
I already have a red ESC key, It'd be great if it would perfectly fit with my new red spacebar.
Maybe someone else can answer that for you; however, based on the pictures you referred, the difference you mentioned is not clear, you'd better post a side by side comparison instead, under the same light and other optics conditions, then, the difference should be clear.
Post by: dario on Fri, 15 July 2016, 21:05:20
Maybe someone else can answer that for you; however, based on the pictures you referred, the difference you mentioned is not clear, you'd better post a side by side comparison instead, under the same light and other optics conditions, then, the difference should be clear.
I have only red ESC so can't make any real comparison, but I remember that people on this forum (maybe in the thread from the first spacebar massdrop) commented about different colors of these two. Caps Lock from elitekeyboards is little brigther than the original topre red, IIRC.
If this red PBT spacebar is color calibrated using aforementioned Caps Lock, that could be a problem, because it won't color fit anywhere else.
It would be great if someone could make direct comparison.
Post by: romevi on Fri, 15 July 2016, 21:47:22
Maybe someone else can answer that for you; however, based on the pictures you referred, the difference you mentioned is not clear, you'd better post a side by side comparison instead, under the same light and other optics conditions, then, the difference should be clear.
I have only red ESC so can't make any real comparison, but I remember that people on this forum (maybe in the thread from the first spacebar massdrop) commented about different colors of these two. Caps Lock from elitekeyboards is little brigther than the original topre red, IIRC.
If this red PBT spacebar is color calibrated using aforementioned Caps Lock, that could be a problem, because it won't color fit anywhere else.
It would be great if someone could make direct comparison.
I think all buttons other than the space bars are made by Topre, so any color differences would be very minimal, if any.
As for the bars, matt3o spent a lot of time color calibrating them. Not sure if they're 100% matched, but they're pretty darn close.
In any case, these are your only PBT space bar options, so you have no other options.
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 16 July 2016, 05:42:12
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 16 July 2016, 05:53:54
white and black are color matched with a 98-99% color accuracy (matched to hhkb colors). Red and blue are in the 95-96% range (matched to special edition kit). Orange and green should be 99% (matched to original topre sets).
And yellow is forgotten :(
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 16 July 2016, 05:55:40
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 16 July 2016, 06:03:32
pink almost made it
That would probably have sold better than yellow :))
Maybe R3 could introduce pink and yellow .......
Post by: the_marsbar on Wed, 20 July 2016, 08:25:04
Post by: romevi on Wed, 20 July 2016, 08:58:24
So it looks like more than 1600 spacebars so far. How many was ordered in the first round?
That's 1600 orders. Each order is at least two space bars.
Post by: the_marsbar on Wed, 20 July 2016, 11:05:33
Post by: Shikarikato on Thu, 21 July 2016, 16:53:32
white and red will have to do for now
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 23 July 2016, 04:57:58
if theres another run id be glad to buy a pink spacebar
white and red will have to do for now
Maybe during late 2017/2018, it shall appear again ;D .
Post by: Shikarikato on Sat, 23 July 2016, 16:21:43
all we have to do is start persuading every person on this planet to buy topre boards without pbt spacebarsif theres another run id be glad to buy a pink spacebar
white and red will have to do for now
Maybe during late 2017/2018, it shall appear again ;D .
then there will be a market and we can hit MOQ instantly
Post by: zslane on Sat, 23 July 2016, 18:01:36
Post by: jessica on Sat, 23 July 2016, 18:16:35
Good work as usual, Matt
Post by: dario on Sat, 23 July 2016, 20:23:05
I think all buttons other than the space bars are made by Topre, so any color differences would be very minimal, if any.
I'm not so sure about that. You see, it seems that there are two kinds of Topre red colors. One is of brighter shade, and the other is somewhat darker.
First would be:
- Limited Edition Control and Esc Kit
And in the second, darker red group, we found:
- complete Topre red keyset
- standalone Topre red ESC key
- standalone Topre red arrows keys
I only have a red Topre ESC key so I can't actually make any live comparison, but this is the information I got before on this forum, and judging from some of the images on the internet, it seems to be the truth. Red PBT spacebar rev1 really looks brighter and orange-like.
(http://i.imgur.com/ekSNvnj.jpg)
Quote
As for the bars, matt3o spent a lot of time color calibrating them. Not sure if they're 100% matched, but they're pretty darn close.
That's not the point.
Quote
In any case, these are your only PBT space bar options, so you have no other options.
I'm sure they will be pretty good, but it's just my OCD waiting its chance to go wild. :D
white and black are color matched with a 98-99% color accuracy (matched to hhkb colors). Red and blue are in the 95-96% range (matched to special edition kit). Orange and green should be 99% (matched to original topre sets).
I'm sure they are, but what I'm trying to tell you is - you've calibrated your spacebars using a wrong color sample, at least in the case of red.
Post by: xondat on Sat, 23 July 2016, 20:37:58
pink almost made itWhat is the MOQ per color?
Post by: romevi on Sat, 23 July 2016, 23:43:32
I think all buttons other than the space bars are made by Topre, so any color differences would be very minimal, if any.
I'm not so sure about that. You see, it seems that there are two kinds of Topre red colors. One is of brighter shade, and the other is somewhat darker.
First would be:
- Limited Edition Control and Esc Kit
And in the second, darker red group, we found:
- complete Topre red keyset
- standalone Topre red ESC key
- standalone Topre red arrows keys
I only have a red Topre ESC key so I can't actually make any live comparison, but this is the information I got before on this forum, and judging from some of the images on the internet, it seems to be the truth. Red PBT spacebar rev1 really looks brighter and orange-like.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ekSNvnj.jpg)white and black are color matched with a 98-99% color accuracy (matched to hhkb colors). Red and blue are in the 95-96% range (matched to special edition kit). Orange and green should be 99% (matched to original topre sets).
I'm sure they are, but what I'm trying to tell you is - you've calibrated your spacebars using a wrong color sample, at least in the case of red.
But why is it wrong if they're matched to a certain red hue made by Topre? They just don't match the red Esc you have, which is a different shade from what Matt3o calibrated. As you said, the space bar seems brighter, which makes sense considering he tried to calibrate it to the brighter Limited Edition HHKB set.
QuoteAs for the bars, matt3o spent a lot of time color calibrating them. Not sure if they're 100% matched, but they're pretty darn close.
That's not the point.
It's kind of the point considering the set that Matt3o calibrated against was the set you don't have, which may be the reason why it doesn't match.
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Sun, 24 July 2016, 00:11:58
Well said, rombro.I think all buttons other than the space bars are made by Topre, so any color differences would be very minimal, if any.
I'm not so sure about that. You see, it seems that there are two kinds of Topre red colors. One is of brighter shade, and the other is somewhat darker.
First would be:
- Limited Edition Control and Esc Kit
And in the second, darker red group, we found:
- complete Topre red keyset
- standalone Topre red ESC key
- standalone Topre red arrows keys
I only have a red Topre ESC key so I can't actually make any live comparison, but this is the information I got before on this forum, and judging from some of the images on the internet, it seems to be the truth. Red PBT spacebar rev1 really looks brighter and orange-like.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ekSNvnj.jpg)white and black are color matched with a 98-99% color accuracy (matched to hhkb colors). Red and blue are in the 95-96% range (matched to special edition kit). Orange and green should be 99% (matched to original topre sets).
I'm sure they are, but what I'm trying to tell you is - you've calibrated your spacebars using a wrong color sample, at least in the case of red.
But why is it wrong if they're matched to a certain red hue made by Topre? They just don't match the red Esc you have, which is a different shade from what Matt3o calibrated. As you said, the space bar seems brighter, which makes sense considering he tried to calibrate it to the brighter Limited Edition HHKB set.QuoteAs for the bars, matt3o spent a lot of time color calibrating them. Not sure if they're 100% matched, but they're pretty darn close.
That's not the point.
It's kind of the point considering the set that Matt3o calibrated against was the set you don't have, which may be the reason why it doesn't match.
dario, you've dubbed one "true red" (from Realforce) and the other "miscolored red" (from PFU/HHKB). Those are your opinions. Sorry these are not matched to your personal preference but saying Matt3o's work is 'wrong' is just plain rude.
Post by: atlas3686 on Mon, 25 July 2016, 09:22:39
Post by: xondat on Mon, 25 July 2016, 09:37:25
Have I missed round 2? Would have definitely taken a pink or 2 as well :)It's on Massdrop now.
Post by: romevi on Mon, 25 July 2016, 09:46:57
Have I missed round 2? Would have definitely taken a pink or 2 as well :)It's on Massdrop now.
False.
Post by: xondat on Mon, 25 July 2016, 09:56:26
Oh. You missed it, atlas.Have I missed round 2? Would have definitely taken a pink or 2 as well :)It's on Massdrop now.
False.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Mon, 25 July 2016, 10:09:24
ordered 20 caps for my friends in Indonesia huehehe
Post by: Geckt on Mon, 25 July 2016, 10:26:52
Post by: atlas3686 on Mon, 25 July 2016, 10:53:23
Oh. You missed it, atlas.Have I missed round 2? Would have definitely taken a pink or 2 as well :)It's on Massdrop now.
False.
no worries, I got all the colours from the first round, would have liked green though. Hopefully we get a round 3 with pink making the cut.
Post by: Pestik on Tue, 26 July 2016, 02:36:30
Post by: nickysan92 on Tue, 26 July 2016, 03:21:57
Any idea if this will ever drop again or if there's any existing vendor that have these in stock?
Post by: romevi on Tue, 26 July 2016, 07:41:38
Aww snap I missed the drop due to a payment error from my bank and I was unable to resolve it before the cut-off time.
Any idea if this will ever drop again or if there's any existing vendor that have these in stock?
There was a huge spike of orders at some point during the drop, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was a vendor.
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 26 July 2016, 21:54:02
There was a huge spike of orders at some point during the drop, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was a vendor.
Not really, just ordered 4 of everything towards the end 8) .
Just like the first GB, always buy FOUR of everything like your life depends upon it.
Post by: swimmingbird on Sun, 31 July 2016, 03:11:24
There was a huge spike of orders at some point during the drop, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was a vendor.
Not really, just ordered 4 of everything towards the end 8) .
Just like the first GB, always buy FOUR of everything like your life depends upon it.
Elrick speaks the truth
Post by: RobotMalcolmX on Thu, 04 August 2016, 10:20:53
Aww snap I missed the drop due to a payment error from my bank and I was unable to resolve it before the cut-off time.
Any idea if this will ever drop again or if there's any existing vendor that have these in stock?
In regards to dropping again, I have a feeling it'll be some time before this comes back up on Massdrop. Luckily, a lot of people probably bought more than they need and you could probably pick one up from them.
Post by: joric on Sat, 06 August 2016, 04:21:14
Another thing though.
All black stock ABS HHKB's spacebars (not PBT ones, those are perfect) apparently have tiny discolored spots, like after dried droplets of water:
(http://i.imgur.com/1rm4oKO.jpg?1)
Two upper ones are ABS stock spacebars, the bottom is the new PBT spacebar (it's absolutely perfect, it's just grease).
Could anyone confirm all stock ABS spacebars have this defect (discolored spots)?
I bought two black HHKBs with an year-long interval, and they both have these nasty and pretty much visible spots. Looks like all black HHKBs are
affected.
Can anyone confirm?
Post by: kawasaki161 on Sat, 06 August 2016, 05:29:36
Post by: suprsmo on Wed, 31 August 2016, 01:50:23
Got my RF and my FC660C. :/
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 31 August 2016, 05:33:53
Bugger..too slow.
Got my RF and my FC660C. :/
Some vendors might have bought some.
Keep your eyes peeled just after they are delivered.
Post by: the_marsbar on Sun, 09 October 2016, 10:04:56
Is there anything to do about this? If they're really as bad as the comments suggest, is this really tolerated?
There was a lot of manufacturing issues, but the updates on the Massdrop page said that the issues were resolved. I could live with the long wait (I haven't received shipping notice yet), but if the quality is also really low, then I'm really unhappy. Especially since I am most likely going to have to pay a high import tax on these spacebars (I ordered six).
Post by: Geckt on Sun, 09 October 2016, 11:01:28
Post by: oscillik on Sun, 09 October 2016, 15:53:24
So there's already some feedback that the spacebars are not as nice as the ones from the first run, even though the second run spacebars were supposed to be better, e.g., as it says on the Massdrop page for the drop, "this new iteration of the popular Topre space bar now features a refined texture much closer to the original".
Is there anything to do about this? If they're really as bad as the comments suggest, is this really tolerated?
There was a lot of manufacturing issues, but the updates on the Massdrop page said that the issues were resolved. I could live with the long wait (I haven't received shipping notice yet), but if the quality is also really low, then I'm really unhappy. Especially since I am most likely going to have to pay a high import tax on these spacebars (I ordered six).
As the person who donated their ABS spacebar for the original mold, and who owns quite a few of the original run - there's nothing wrong with the texture on the first run. Don't know what Massdrop are smoking.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sun, 09 October 2016, 16:18:38
I'm gonna take a wild guess and say they changed manufacturing so they were cheaper to produce under the guise of making them 'better'.So there's already some feedback that the spacebars are not as nice as the ones from the first run, even though the second run spacebars were supposed to be better, e.g., as it says on the Massdrop page for the drop, "this new iteration of the popular Topre space bar now features a refined texture much closer to the original".
Is there anything to do about this? If they're really as bad as the comments suggest, is this really tolerated?
There was a lot of manufacturing issues, but the updates on the Massdrop page said that the issues were resolved. I could live with the long wait (I haven't received shipping notice yet), but if the quality is also really low, then I'm really unhappy. Especially since I am most likely going to have to pay a high import tax on these spacebars (I ordered six).
As the person who donated their ABS spacebar for the original mold, and who owns quite a few of the original run - there's nothing wrong with the texture on the first run. Don't know what Massdrop are smoking.
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 09 October 2016, 16:19:39
I'm gonna take a wild guess and say they changed manufacturing so they were cheaper to produce under the guise of making them 'better'.So there's already some feedback that the spacebars are not as nice as the ones from the first run, even though the second run spacebars were supposed to be better, e.g., as it says on the Massdrop page for the drop, "this new iteration of the popular Topre space bar now features a refined texture much closer to the original".
Is there anything to do about this? If they're really as bad as the comments suggest, is this really tolerated?
There was a lot of manufacturing issues, but the updates on the Massdrop page said that the issues were resolved. I could live with the long wait (I haven't received shipping notice yet), but if the quality is also really low, then I'm really unhappy. Especially since I am most likely going to have to pay a high import tax on these spacebars (I ordered six).
As the person who donated their ABS spacebar for the original mold, and who owns quite a few of the original run - there's nothing wrong with the texture on the first run. Don't know what Massdrop are smoking.
That is what it sounded like as they said they had mold issues and such which was odd cause the molds made from the first run were great.
Post by: Elrick on Sun, 09 October 2016, 18:31:44
I'm gonna take a wild guess and say they changed manufacturing so they were cheaper to produce under the guise of making them 'better'.
Business 101, it's ALWAYS better when the company makes profit on what it produces, especially when it costs far less to make 8) .
Looking forward to see if this batch matches the previous one in quality, otherwise it's FULL on refund time from MD. All for them making money on this BUT won't tolerate shoddy manufacturing under any circumstance.
Post by: Mr.Lunchbox on Sun, 09 October 2016, 20:33:25
I ordered 2 spacebars and one was fine while the second had some minor abnormalities, looked like either the mold was not good or that particular injection wasn't right. Like it didn't fill the mold all the way in 1 or 2 spots.
I do have some that I ordered from AliExpress and I think the quality of those is better than this second run. Not by leaps and bounds mind you but better nonetheless.
For the time it took I'm not particularly happy with the results.
Post by: jchan94 on Sun, 09 October 2016, 20:40:19
I received mine yesterday and while I don't have any samples from the first run I will say that the quiality of this second run is not great.
I ordered 2 spacebars and one was fine while the second had some minor abnormalities, looked like either the mold was not good or that particular injection wasn't right. Like it didn't fill the mold all the way in 1 or 2 spots.
I do have some that I ordered from AliExpress and I think the quality of those is better than this second run. Not by leaps and bounds mind you but better nonetheless.
For the time it took I'm not particularly happy with the results.
Photos? would love to see a comparison of the aliexpress + md r2 ones.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sun, 09 October 2016, 21:44:20
The texture feels quite a bit rougher to me and my dark gray (black) spacebar looks melted around the edges, I've never seen a cap that looked like that before. It's hard to photograph since it's basically just really shiny.
These do seem to be slightly different in profile compared to my other pbt topre spacebar I have from before when putting them side by side on my desk.
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 09 October 2016, 21:51:39
So I got mine out to see if all the bad things being said are true and yeah these do seem to be sub par compared to the round 1 caps.
The texture feels quite a bit rougher to me and my dark gray (black) spacebar looks melted around the edges, I've never seen a cap that looked like that before. It's hard to photograph since it's basically just really shiny.
These do seem to be slightly different in profile compared to my other pbt topre spacebar I have from before when putting them side by side on my desk.
Well that sucks to hear. I may just ask for a refund than if they are noticeably worse than round 1.
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Sun, 09 October 2016, 22:22:11
This was one of the only things that I've ordered from MD in a long time and it might be the last. Tons of delays (even if they sent out emails about them) and then ****ty end product and ****ty postage (in some case I've seen posted)... game over.
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 10 October 2016, 00:02:07
What people have been reporting is really a shame.
This was one of the only things that I've ordered from MD in a long time and it might be the last. Tons of delays (even if they sent out emails about them) and then ****ty end product and ****ty postage (in some case I've seen posted)... game over.
Know how you feel, haven't gotten mine yet but if they arrive in a crappy condition, far less quality than the first round then I'm sending them back.
Think this will be the LAST Topre Space bar Group Buy, because MassDrop will be losing money on this. Losing Group Buys are all avoided with in the future, and this looks like one of those "Loser" Categories.
Post by: Belfong on Mon, 10 October 2016, 03:43:59
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 10 October 2016, 04:32:55
Unfortunately my order has already been shipped out and will be here within a few days, so too late to cancel it. Guess I'll just have to go with it for now and see what they look like. But it sucks having to wait almost three months for them to arrive, only to find out that they're worse than the previous run, while paying a premium for them. Oh well...
Post by: the_marsbar on Mon, 10 October 2016, 06:58:46
Post by: oscillik on Mon, 10 October 2016, 08:10:03
Is it possible to write Massdrop now, and say that I don't want the spacebars because of the reports about poor quality?
I very much doubt it. You'll likely have to just wait to judge for yourself, and then return for refund. Unless your order hasn't already passed the point of cancellation before dispatch, in which case then I would assume you can cancel.
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 10 October 2016, 09:15:20
I took a few pictures to give make comparison between the stock Realforce ABS spacebar and the new PBT ones. These are my first PBT bars so I can't compare them to the ones from the first run. This is by no means a scientific comparison, I just thought people would like to have an idea of what they look like. I'll comment more on the quality and feel of the spacebars later when I have time.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0048-2.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0049.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0050-2.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0051-2.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0053.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0055.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0056-2.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0057.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0058-2.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0043.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0060.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0045.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Topre%20PBT%20spacebar/DSC_0062-3.jpg)
Post by: oscillik on Mon, 10 October 2016, 13:17:25
That's disappointing.
Post by: jchan94 on Mon, 10 October 2016, 14:23:13
Post by: kawasaki161 on Mon, 10 October 2016, 14:28:57
Post by: romevi on Mon, 10 October 2016, 14:31:49
If they are the same ones that popped up on Aliexpress they also don't really snap-fit, I mean they kinda do, but it's more 30% snap 70% friction in my case.
They better not be the ones from AliExpress... I'd be pretty livid if they were.
Post by: the_marsbar on Mon, 10 October 2016, 15:04:36
Post by: kawasaki161 on Mon, 10 October 2016, 15:08:22
If they are the same ones that popped up on Aliexpress they also don't really snap-fit, I mean they kinda do, but it's more 30% snap 70% friction in my case.
They better not be the ones from AliExpress... I'd be pretty livid if they were.
Sadly the pictures look very similar to the ones from Aliexpress with only slight adjustments (they said that they had new molds made). The stem looks basically identical and the corners look just as bad. They aren't 100% the same, but from what I've seen and heard about them they seem to be closer to the Aliexpress version as to R1, which is really sad, but we don't really have an alternative, do we?
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 10 October 2016, 15:58:09
Sadly the pictures look very similar to the ones from Aliexpress with only slight adjustments (they said that they had new molds made). The stem looks basically identical and the corners look just as bad. They aren't 100% the same, but from what I've seen and heard about them they seem to be closer to the Aliexpress version as to R1, which is really sad, but we don't really have an alternative, do we?
:'(
Well, this sucks.
Post by: jchan94 on Mon, 10 October 2016, 16:29:26
If they are the same ones that popped up on Aliexpress they also don't really snap-fit, I mean they kinda do, but it's more 30% snap 70% friction in my case.
They better not be the ones from AliExpress... I'd be pretty livid if they were.
Sadly the pictures look very similar to the ones from Aliexpress with only slight adjustments (they said that they had new molds made). The stem looks basically identical and the corners look just as bad. They aren't 100% the same, but from what I've seen and heard about them they seem to be closer to the Aliexpress version as to R1, which is really sad, but we don't really have an alternative, do we?
Can you show us a comparison between the aliexpress ones an the r2 MD ones?
Post by: dario on Mon, 10 October 2016, 16:34:44
Anyway, if anyone has a red PBT spacebar from the FIRST run and is willing to sell it, please send me a PM. Thank you.
Post by: jchan94 on Mon, 10 October 2016, 19:02:38
1) Aliexpress topre spacebar
2) Stock ABS topre spacebar
3) R1 MD Topre spacebar
4) R2 MD Topre spacebar
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 10 October 2016, 19:33:31
Looking for keyboard Science of :
1) Aliexpress topre spacebar
2) Stock ABS topre spacebar
3) R1 MD Topre spacebar
4) R2 MD Topre spacebar
I'll have 2,3 and 4 once I get my round 2's in.
Post by: kawasaki161 on Tue, 11 October 2016, 00:52:16
Can you show us a comparison between the aliexpress ones an the r2 MD ones?
I'll try to make comparison pictures once my R2 MD spacebars arrive (no shipping notification yet :'() keep in mind that the quality will be awesome thanks to my high end photographing brick aka Google Nexus 5 from 2013
Post by: jchan94 on Tue, 11 October 2016, 05:18:55
The injection points are different.
(https://i.gyazo.com/3a09c78e69625bf757e39c68c149064d.png)
Post by: kawasaki161 on Tue, 11 October 2016, 05:56:57
Looks like R2 is a different mold than the Aliexpress ones.
The injection points are different.Show Image(https://i.gyazo.com/3a09c78e69625bf757e39c68c149064d.png)
Correct, but they said that there would be new molds made anyways, so that is not much of a surprise.
The thing is that the ones in the picture are a lot cleaner than what you would actually get at the end, also they do have more material on the stem than the actual product. The stem, stabfittings and the corners (same inconsistency) seem very similar to the MD R2 ones (when you are comparing the real Spacebar to the pictures), but the injection points are different and the outer ledges have a different finish from the Aliexpress ones that are just raw. Another thing I noticed is that those stabilizing cross sections are slightly different around the stem and stabfittings.
Currently I can only make assumptions and my assumption is that they were made in the same factory, but we can never be 100% sure since we know they changed something about the mold.
I'll wait until they arrive and make a new statement then, as well as provide the best comparison shots I can.
Post by: yomammary on Tue, 11 October 2016, 08:09:20
I fail to see problems with the spacebars in the pictures posted though. Do they fit?
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 11 October 2016, 08:47:58
I didn't even get a shipment notification yet.
I fail to see problems with the spacebars in the pictures posted though. Do they fit?
I believe they fit but the issue is the quality of the final cap compared to the Round 1 caps which is frustrating because the Round 1 caps were perfect.
Post by: dario on Tue, 11 October 2016, 17:04:44
When people talk about PBT as a material, one of the most commonly mentioned features is that it will not get shiny. Oh yes it will, believe me. I've been using this PBT spacebar from round 1 for about three months now (previous owner didn't use it at all), and it already starts to show shining where the right thumb hits it.
(http://i.imgur.com/uyidbmz.jpg)
I mean, when you look at the old IBM keyboards made of PBT, some of them are carved in so much deep that you can almost tell the shape of the fingers of its owners.
PBT is not very tough, it's just tougher than ABS.
Post by: oscillik on Tue, 11 October 2016, 17:11:04
Pretty sure no one except uninformed people have claimed that PBT never shines. Plenty have claimed correctly that it takes longer for it to shine.
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Tue, 11 October 2016, 17:27:16
I already have a few from R1, so no need for 6 lower quality ones ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Post by: jchan94 on Tue, 11 October 2016, 17:33:09
Got a refund for mine with zero questioning from massdrop.
I already have a few from R1, so no need for 6 lower quality ones ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Do you mind sharing a comparison between r1 and r2? Glad you got the refund so easily btw!
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Tue, 11 October 2016, 17:35:58
Got a refund for mine with zero questioning from massdrop.
I already have a few from R1, so no need for 6 lower quality ones ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Do you mind sharing a comparison between r1 and r2? Glad you got the refund so easily btw!
Sorry, I saw the pictures here and comment on massdrop and asked for a refund as they hadn't shipped mine.
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 11 October 2016, 20:00:12
Got a refund for mine with zero questioning from massdrop.
I already have a few from R1, so no need for 6 lower quality ones ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
MassDrop has to honour it's commitment to it's customers and they know about the quality issues, hence it will hurt them big time.
Although some won't bother to demand a refund simply because even if it's badly made, they can offload all of them on Fleabay where Realforce PBT Space bars are very rare.
Always make money and recover from any Group Buy :thumb: .
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 12 October 2016, 18:35:19
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 13 October 2016, 18:36:21
A heads up to anyone waiting to get these Massdrop says they need photo or video showing issues before they can do anything about it.
Seems to be a common statement from MassDrop these days, provide videos/pics to prove your case.
What's next, a lawyer and a date in court for them to make the final decision as to whether or not to stand behind their customers or back dodgy scumbags, making garbage products?
Looks like ole MD is finally showing their true colours and it's got nothing to do with badly made spacers........... ::)
Post by: dario on Fri, 14 October 2016, 15:01:03
In the meantime, prices for spacebars round1 are going wild... :confused:
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 14 October 2016, 18:51:40
I got an almost instantaneous refund, few minutes after I send them a message I don't want my spacebars anymore, no need for sending. Top notch support if you ask me. :p
In the meantime, prices for spacebars round1 are going wild... ???
You're lucky because they haven't sent out your order yet so you can easily cancel it. Pity for those that have received theirs already.
Thanks for that, looking to offload some Round 1s if the prices are good and thanks to MD they have now made it a perfect time to sell them :thumb: .
Post by: romevi on Fri, 14 October 2016, 19:34:01
Post by: Capmerica on Sat, 15 October 2016, 15:39:43
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: the_marsbar on Wed, 19 October 2016, 08:12:39
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 19 October 2016, 08:23:04
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/e8847baf1f7cdfac3d7305b855c7b2e9.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/6daef18e8d1bd0e52f9597e04574e969.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/fef41ce16d5a59934795572fb77b477f.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/bd3e5bc6067297a3c6513da81d65e79f.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/2f62b6c1011680343c0ed588795e32ef.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/0cc0e91bf8a174efff1be2a4a84546dc.jpg)
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 19 October 2016, 10:11:30
They look worse in person. I also managed to ruin my hhkb space bar spring trying to mount one of these.Show Image(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/e8847baf1f7cdfac3d7305b855c7b2e9.jpg)Show Image(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/6daef18e8d1bd0e52f9597e04574e969.jpg)Show Image(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/fef41ce16d5a59934795572fb77b477f.jpg)Show Image(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/bd3e5bc6067297a3c6513da81d65e79f.jpg)Show Image(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/2f62b6c1011680343c0ed588795e32ef.jpg)Show Image(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161019/0cc0e91bf8a174efff1be2a4a84546dc.jpg)
They look really crappy compared to round 1 :(
Post by: dario on Sat, 22 October 2016, 10:14:28
Just a fun fact about these PBT spacebars in general.
When people talk about PBT as a material, one of the most commonly mentioned features is that it will not get shiny. Oh yes it will, believe me. I've been using this PBT spacebar from round 1 for about three months now (previous owner didn't use it at all), and it already starts to show shining where the right thumb hits it.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/uyidbmz.jpg)
I mean, when you look at the old IBM keyboards made of PBT, some of them are carved in so much deep that you can almost tell the shape of the fingers of its owners.
PBT is not very tough, it's just tougher than ABS.
We already know that PBT isn't shine proof, it is demonstrably less prone to it, dependant on a number of factors, including your skin chemistry.
Pretty sure no one except uninformed people have claimed that PBT never shines. Plenty have claimed correctly that it takes longer for it to shine.
This actually turned out to be a false alarm. I've just taken few alcohol paper tissues for cleaning glasses and cleaned this grease spot with ease. Material itself is not worn out like it would be if it's ABS. Spacebar is now again indistinguishable from brand new one.
PBT has earned its glory after all. :D
Post by: creamchesus on Sun, 23 October 2016, 10:14:01
In the meantime, prices for spacebars round1 are going wild... :confused:
Where can I find an R1 Spacebar at? I've been looking for awhile..
Post by: menuhin on Sun, 23 October 2016, 10:17:18
In the meantime, prices for spacebars round1 are going wild... :confused:
Where can I find an R1 Spacebar at? I've been looking for awhile..
But it's just less than 10 USD for many PBT Topre spacebar offer at TaoBao - showing photos similar to the samples in this thread.
Post by: dario on Sun, 23 October 2016, 15:17:03
Where can I find an R1 Spacebar at? I've been looking for awhile..
Well, you can buy mine if you want. I just got myself red one, so I don't need black anymore.
But it's just less than 10 USD for many PBT Topre spacebar offer at TaoBao - showing photos similar to the samples in this thread.
Those are useless garbage, just like all of the spacebars in this thread.
There is no point in buying a $220+ keyboard, and then trying to spare some money on one keycap.
As time goes by, I expect prices for spacebars round1 will be going up even more, since they are the only ones that look and work like they should. Everything else is a waste of money.
Post by: menuhin on Mon, 24 October 2016, 03:38:16
But it's just less than 10 USD for many PBT Topre spacebar offer at TaoBao - showing photos similar to the samples in this thread.
Those are useless garbage, just like all of the spacebars in this thread.
There is no point in buying a $220+ keyboard, and then trying to spare some money on one keycap.
As time goes by, I expect prices for spacebars round1 will be going up even more, since they are the only ones that look and work like they should. Everything else is a waste of money.
Where is thread for those round 1 Topre Spacebar? Did Matt3o use the same mold and specs for producing round 2?
Have you personally tried those TaoBao spacebars? If yes, how do they perform and what are their flaws?
Not knowing when will there be round 3 and how much will it cost and most importantly not wanting to 'shine' my original HHKB ABS spacebar, I am planning to get those TaoBao spacebars - they're cheap like a good burger.
Post by: kawasaki161 on Mon, 24 October 2016, 06:47:10
Where is thread for those round 1 Topre Spacebar? Did Matt3o use the same mold and specs for producing round 2?
Have you personally tried those TaoBao spacebars? If yes, how do they perform and what are their flaws?
Not knowing when will there be round 3 and how much will it cost and most importantly not wanting to 'shine' my original HHKB ABS spacebar, I am planning to get those TaoBao spacebars - they're cheap like a good burger.
The thread for the R1 spacebars is this thread, it was just updated for R2, the first comments are still about R1 though.
I personally do own two Aliexpress Topre PBT spacebars in white (I planned on dyeing them). They did need a little work on the stem to sit correctly and they aren't as pretty as the original ones, especially when you look at them from the wrong angle. I do have no complaints about how they work though, after cleaning up the stem they sit nicely and they are just as nice to use as the original ones.
Post by: dario on Mon, 24 October 2016, 13:42:38
Where is thread for those round 1 Topre Spacebar? Did Matt3o use the same mold and specs for producing round 2?
Here it is: Matt3o's Amazing Topre PBT Spacebars (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=72127.0)
What do you mean by "same specs"? Of course that shape and dimensions should be about the same, but the final quality obviously isn't. There's much more to it than just dimensions.
They used different manufacturer this time, probably trying to make it more cost effective, but the idea didn't turn out very well. People are reporting all kinds of defects, be it aesthetical or functional.
Have you personally tried those TaoBao spacebars? If yes, how do they perform and what are their flaws?
Not knowing when will there be round 3 and how much will it cost and most importantly not wanting to 'shine' my original HHKB ABS spacebar, I am planning to get those TaoBao spacebars - they're cheap like a good burger.
It is questionable if there will ever be R3, but if it ever happens, I wouldn't expect it for at least year or two.
As for TaoBao, no I didn't try it, but you can read in this thread people telling they are pretty much the same as MD R2. Of course, it's your money and your keyboard, and you can do with it whatever you want; but I don't really understand the concept of being satisfied with anything less than perfect. If some kind of middle solution is good enough, you could just buy Cherry MX keyboard and not bother with Topre universe at all. Why would anyone want to buy a $220 keyboard and then put some low level cheap Chinese keycaps on it, risking to break stabs and/or spring, is beyond me.
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 24 October 2016, 23:12:15
If some kind of middle solution is good enough, you could just buy Cherry MX keyboard and not bother with Topre universe at all. Why would anyone want to buy a $220 keyboard and then put some low level cheap Chinese keycaps on it, risking to break stabs and/or spring, is beyond me.
CORRECT.
I knew when Matt3o wasn't involved at all during this procedure that something bad will happen and sure enough my instinct was proven. Although I can't be happy about this since I spent big buying every colour they offered in this R2 version.
Just was hoping MAYBE this Second rebuild will be the same as the First version at least but it looks like it's an ABORTION with PBT :'( >:( >:D :'( :'( .
Post by: yomammary on Fri, 28 October 2016, 08:21:31
A bit more of a rattle, but otherwise it's good.
Post by: ReverbSlush on Fri, 28 October 2016, 08:29:38
I just received a black one I purchased from nickheller. Mine is fine. Not sure if I was preparing for the worst, but I'm totally content with it. I have a few from the previous drop, and the only immediate difference I can see is that the newer one is a bit grainier than the previous versions. But I prefer grainy so I'm totally cool with it.
Same here. My black one fits fine, no rattle, sorta grainy. I have a few colors too but haven't put them on yet.
Post by: dario on Fri, 28 October 2016, 20:56:23
I can only say... sweet child Jesus... difference is just enormous. I don't even recall that ABS was so loud with that irritating thin and shallow clicky noise. Just try it for yourself after a few months of using PBT and I guarantee you'll be surprised as I am.
Also, again just for an experiment, I tried putting spacebar the way it's intended to be here, you know what I mean - not flipped. This is also so freaking horrible I can't even understand why it's not factory flipped, there should be no human soul in the known universe condemned to use the spacebar this way. This is just unbearable, it's like a screwdriver stabbing in my thumb every time I press that key. Very first thing everyone should do after unboxing their Realforce out of cardboard is flipping the spacebar, really. Do it before you even plug it into your PC, it's not even worth trying for a few minutes.
Post by: Elrick on Sun, 30 October 2016, 04:31:11
This is also so freaking horrible I can't even understand why it's not factory flipped, there should be no human soul in the known universe condemned to use the spacebar this way. This is just unbearable, it's like a screwdriver stabbing in my thumb every time I press that key. Very first thing everyone should do after unboxing their Realforce out of cardboard is flipping the spacebar, really. Do it before you even plug it into your PC, it's not even worth trying for a few minutes.
Good to see someone that makes me look and sound quite NORMAL to anyone out there. Spacebar orientation, ....just wow ::) .
Post by: Belfong on Sun, 30 October 2016, 04:53:26
Indeed, he's equally as eloquent as you when it comes to keyboard :thumb:This is also so freaking horrible I can't even understand why it's not factory flipped, there should be no human soul in the known universe condemned to use the spacebar this way. This is just unbearable, it's like a screwdriver stabbing in my thumb every time I press that key. Very first thing everyone should do after unboxing their Realforce out of cardboard is flipping the spacebar, really. Do it before you even plug it into your PC, it's not even worth trying for a few minutes.
Good to see someone that makes me look and sound quite NORMAL to anyone out there. Spacebar orientation, ....just wow ::) .
Post by: SpAmRaY on Mon, 31 October 2016, 13:41:45
Post by: Corsa1r on Mon, 31 October 2016, 15:48:05
I received my package about 15 days ago, opened them up, and immediately pulled the ABS space bar off my Type-S. When I inspected each one, I noticed immediately they were slightly thinner than what I expected, but not by much. Mine have a slightly more grainy texture than the rest of my printed HHKB keycaps, but I actually really like it, and it blends well with the feel of the rest of the board. Many customers were complaining about 'melty' ends where there was no graininess on the right and left top-sides of their bars, I had no such problem, and my keycap texture is very consistent on both. As for tooling marks, I have a barely noticeable 'scratch' less than 1mm in the center, anterior end at the bottom on both, which I almost didn't see initially and when it's snapped in, you can't see that part of the key anyways. Setting them on the straightest table I have, to my eye, neither one had noticeable warping at all, though the center stem on both is SLIGHTLY longer than my ABS one.
I decided to fit one on, and initially, I had to wiggle it in to get it to 'snap' in, but working it around a little did the trick and it fits WELL. I did this for both. And when I say they fit well, I mean, my ABS space bar was often rattling from what I think was it not snugly fitting on the left side to the plastic guide rail it snaps into. In addition to lubing the guides with a bit of Krytox, and trying both of these spacebars, I realize I have no rattle whatsoever now with either PBT key installed. They fit straight and feel great.
Onto the colorways. The 'light greys' I ordered are not exact matches to the HHKB's colors, but they are so close that I can not tell from regular typing distance, and only if I am staring at it from inches away, they are marginally lighter.
All in all, I'm pretty OCD about conditions of new items I buy, but aside from sitting about .1mm higher than the stock ABS spacebar (which is hardly noticeable, and feels better on my thumb), it sounds like I was very lucky in the quality of my purchase, and I feel bad that so many people had such an awful experience with it. I hope MD makes everything right for you guys.
If I have time (unlikely), I will take pictures and post my space bars and outline everything I detailed here.
Post by: kawasaki161 on Wed, 02 November 2016, 09:29:22
I just contacted support, maybe they can get things sorted out for me.
(http://puu.sh/s4104/ec284f2349.jpg)
Post by: yomammary on Thu, 03 November 2016, 08:01:26
Just got my package and... well... they are ****. Three of the four spacebars I ordered are too warped to function properly and the one that does not stick has a lot of impurities in it (see picture).My green spacebar is perfect, you got a crappy one :(
I just contacted support, maybe they can get things sorted out for me.Show Image(http://puu.sh/s4104/ec284f2349.jpg)
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 03 November 2016, 08:12:43
I can't help but wonder if through all the adjustments etc if the manufacturer just sent all the space bars made including ones that should have been thrown out.
Post by: xondat on Thu, 03 November 2016, 08:15:15
I can't believe the range of quality on these space bars.That might've happened, it's almost impressive how bad the variation is. I'm glad I dropped out of the drop because I didn't have a good feeling, although now I feel bad about how bad it has gone.
I can't help but wonder if through all the adjustments etc if the manufacturer just sent all the space bars made including ones that should have been thrown out.
Post by: dario on Fri, 04 November 2016, 15:54:09
I decided to turn my Realforce to blue and I needed the new spacebar, so I just bought the first one in the Classifieds that was advertised as R1 - and I got tricked.
What people do is to simply buy cheap ones off of Aliexpress and then sell them as much more expensive R1's.
So, since there are so many versions of Topre spacebars on the market right now, as soon as I find time I'll make a simple tutorial on how to to tell apart one from the other.
Post by: wodan on Fri, 04 November 2016, 17:12:08
The original HHKB space bar is always on the LEFT:
(http://i.imgur.com/5tmMmNV.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/DW2t0Z1.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/s3WrhJF.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/i7PDII7.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/tvVbXRH.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/WyTHmyY.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/rz1U8fF.jpg)
Got some more pics in this IMGUR album, the original HHKB space bar is always the marked one:
http://imgur.com/a/RVJ6E (http://imgur.com/a/RVJ6E)
Since I don't have any R1 or Realforce space bars at hand I am having a hard time judging if mine are crooked as well. They do look and feel good to me, maybe I am not seeing the issues ...
Post by: kawasaki161 on Fri, 04 November 2016, 17:17:20
Post by: RobotMalcolmX on Fri, 04 November 2016, 17:59:51
Post by: Badwrench on Fri, 04 November 2016, 20:00:36
Do they work though, like have you put them on a board already? Mine were so warped that they were sticky and didn't come back up.I got mine a little over a week ago but have been busy with new baby this last 9 days. My black one works great, but my green one sticks bad. I have to pull it back up with my key puller. Time to contact massdrop
Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk
Post by: romevi on Sat, 05 November 2016, 17:17:22
Post by: thatsmrdoctortoyou on Sat, 05 November 2016, 17:24:14
Overall I'm quite happy considering some of the reviews I was hearing prior to their arrival.
Post by: breaker9691 on Sat, 05 November 2016, 17:47:59
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 05 November 2016, 18:09:02
still waiting for the project come back...This just had a round 2 that ended and many people have received poor quality space bars.
Post by: Hyde on Sat, 05 November 2016, 22:01:39
The one off ebay seems to sit properly and is fairly straight, only issue is there some melted plastic by the edge of middle Topre stem, which I took a sandpaper and sanded away then it was fine.
But would that be an indication that it was round 2?
Post by: breaker9691 on Sun, 06 November 2016, 12:36:53
I got 2 spacebars, 1 from round 1 which works perfectly, the other one I bought off ebay so therefore there's no way for me to verify if it's round 1 or round 2.
The one off ebay seems to sit properly and is fairly straight, only issue is there some melted plastic by the edge of middle Topre stem, which I took a sandpaper and sanded away then it was fine.
But would that be an indication that it was round 2?
so lucky that i'm not join this time
but PBT Spacebar is just important with me
Post by: dario on Sun, 06 November 2016, 19:34:26
- "How do I know is my spacebar R1 or R2?"
- "Is it good or is it crooked"
- "Is it in fact an alien egg in my house waiting to hatch if I spill water on it?"
...here is a little tutorial on how to tell them apart.
As far as I know, there a currently six versions of Topre spacebars on the market, and these are:
- factory default Realforce ABS spacebars (black, white, blue, green, red, yellow and orange)
- factory default HHKB2 ABS spacebars (black and white)
- factory default Leopold ABS spacebar (black, white and grey)
- Massdrop round 1 PBT spacebars (black, white, blue and red)
- Massdrop round 2 PBT spacebars (black, white, blue, red, green and orange)
- Aliexpress PBT spacebars (white, black, blue, red and pink)
Generally speaking, factory spacebars have the best construction quality of all of them. Every single one of them is perfect in shape and size, every one of them is straight and it looks like it fell straight out of AutoCAD on your desk. You can't even see typical mold injection points on those. But the problem is - they are made from ABS.
So why is that, you ask yourself?
Well, PBT is not really meant to be used in production of longer keys. It is just too unreliable in a way that during the cooling process it bends and warps in very unpredictable ways. Since we're speaking about grand scale production, consistency of quality is very important, and you can't really achieve that if you have tens of thousands different keys, every one of them little bit mentally retarded in its own way.
I had the chance to try on my Realforce both the original ABS spacebar and HHKB2 (original) one. Although they seem to be very similar (probably from the same factory) they still have some very minute difference. Realforce spacebar just worked better, had better thock and it wasn't as loud as HHKB one. I can't be sure why is that. Maybe there are some differences in technical specifications, but it could be just an accidental difference between the two specimens of the same thing.
But none of that was good enough, people still wanted to get their high quality PBT keys, so they decided to make them themselves, since that was the only choice. First one of those attempts was Massdrop round 1. These are generally regarded as top dogs, the best of the best when it comes to PBT spacebars, but they are hard to find on the market these days. They are the thickest of all PBT variations, give the best Topre thock sound, have a very rough upper surface (some may not like that), and smooth shiny front and back sides. Injection points are very noticeable. Most of them are not warped.
I don't have any of the round 2 spacebars so I can't tell much about those (I canceled my order), but judging from people's commentaries, most of them have considerably lower quality than round 1. They are produced in different molds and have different injection points. Most of them is warped, and they have different kind of grain on the upper surface. Most of them have melted edges. They also tend to have thinner stem holders than R1 or ABS. However, it is still possible to find good samples here and there, and they are your only option if you want some specific colors - like orange.
Aliexpress PBT spacebars are sold on Aliexpress, but also on eBay from different Chinese and Hong Kong sellers, and seem to be much like Massdrop round 2 spacebars, but again, they use different, their own molds. You can easily recognize those as they have fine grain surfaces on all sides, not just on top. I had one for a few days and it seemed rather OK. It was certainly not as good as round 1, it was slightly warped, but it did work quite well. It had no melted edges, but it wasn't pretty as R1 either as it had somewhat visible stem protrusion in the center of the upper surface. It's not bad, but it's not for OCD guys.
Time for some pictures now.
First, let's take a look at three different versions.
More
(http://i.imgur.com/SwRuOj1.jpg)
Do you see the differences? Look at the injection points.
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(http://i.imgur.com/Ja4PHbO.jpg)
Here are some more pictures. The upper one is MD R1, ABS is on the bottom of the picture.
Quote from: menuhin
Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/4K7mvEX.jpg)
More pictures. These are all MD R2, except for the white one which is HHKB ABS.
Quote from: wodan
Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/rz1U8fF.jpg)
So in the end, little FAQ.
- "What if I have warped edges? Should I kill myself right now or there is still some hope for me to have a good quality life after chemotherapy?"
You can actually fix that yourself. Take two straight surfaces, like two pieces of glass or wood or whatever. take a hair dryer and heat your spacebar as hot as you can. Then put it on flat surfaces (don't break the stem, leave it loose in-between two surfaces) and press it with something heavy like few books. Leave it to cool down. Repeat if needed.
- "What if I have melted edges? Will people avoid me on the streets? Can I still ever have any friends?"
You can fix that too. Take some fine grain sand paper and just grind away that shiny part of the spacebar.