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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: Matt3o on Thu, 09 April 2015, 02:21:30

Title: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 09 April 2015, 02:21:30
Ladies and Gents it is finally coming!

DSA Retro (http://keypuller.com/dsa-retro) was my first GB (with the restless help of samwisekoi), it was one of the first western organized DSA keycap set and over 450 of you are still enjoying it. I'm promising an SA incarnation since forever and now it is finally the time!

Please welcome SA Retro! :)

The row profile should be: 1-1-2-3-4-4 (with shift keys in R3).

The semi-final kits are as follow:

(http://i.imgur.com/hP3iBbw.png)

Please review and send your suggestions!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Thu, 09 April 2015, 03:39:10
I think I would rather have it all be row 3 profile, but I would still love to have it with the different profiles.  :thumb:
Are there any plans to support different layouts (like JD40 or planck)

Quote
but since we still don't have shift keys in the right profile it seems a fair enough compromise.
What profile row are the shift keys available in?

So does this mean we're going to see a 2nd round of Retro DSA and first round Retro SA at about the same time? (btw did they ever get your approval on that 2nd round of DSA?
I've been waiting so long to get my hands on a Retro set  ;D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 09 April 2015, 03:43:29
shift keys are row-3

DSA Retro has been postponed after SA Retro. I don't know when. exactly.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Thu, 09 April 2015, 04:22:38
Ok cool
Yeah I remember asking you about it coming out in SA, and you told me you had plans for it but didn't know when you would do it
The only reason I could see me also getting it in DSA would be for compatibility with non standard layouts (that's the main reason I would've liked this set all row 3)

With the mockup you made all brown, it reminds me a bit of this typewriter (not so much now that you added some more color) I saw a few months ago (I would love to have a set like with caps in THAT profile)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q1OcT08.jpg)

So did you ever give SP your blessing to use the Retro design for that second run of DSA, or are they doing this all without you? Because I think you said they didn't ask you in another thread
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: dimmu on Thu, 09 April 2015, 05:05:02
your dsa is one of the most beautiful keysets i've seen. i am more into gmk now, but i will definitely be in for this. any chance you get some color packs out there just to liven things up a bit?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 09 April 2015, 05:06:06
more colors will be available in the final mockup.

PS: they asked permission for DSA retro.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 09 April 2015, 06:11:06
Please welcome SA Retro! :)

I'm still in the prototyping phase. What I know is that I want it to be sculpted profile, so it won't be all row-3 (but an all row-3 option might be available). I'm exploring various options and before going head down designing the whole thing I'd like an opinion on the following rows profile:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UGZIcmG.png)


Basically:
- Function keys ROW 3
- Number row ROW 1
- QWE ROW 2
- ASD ROW 3
- ZXC ROW 3
- Bottom row ROW 4

I don't think this has been done before (might be wrong), but since we still don't have shift keys in the right profile it seems a fair enough compromise.

Just as a reminder, this is how the rows look like

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/1RjP12b.jpg)


Thoughts?


SCHWEET GEEZUS we are now in the garden of delight with this key-set.  I was one of those fortunate enough to jump on your DSA sets all those years ago and it took this long for your SA profiled set to eventuate.

Dancing around my office right now, feeling good and fancy free  8) .

Thank you Matt for making this official now, just add a few more colours to this wonderful color-way like special coloured separate keys, that will make this a truly Retro Key-set  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 09 April 2015, 06:55:22
matt3o, the only problem with doing the bottom row in R4 has been that there are no molds for 1.25u keys in semi matte finish, which most organizers have been using with SA. Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Thu, 09 April 2015, 07:16:55
matt3o, the only problem with doing the bottom row in R4 has been that there are no molds for 1.25u keys in semi matte finish, which most organizers have been using with SA. Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.

Does anyone have a picture of what the matte finish looks like, and does it make a big change in the feel of the keys?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 09 April 2015, 07:29:07
Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.

Wouldn't mind if this was all Matte in finish like it's named creator  8) .

Every SA key-set has been shiny thus far so this would be a good time to introduce something different, surface finish-wise of course.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 09 April 2015, 07:57:00
Who will handle fulfillment?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 09 April 2015, 08:15:25
matt3o, the only problem with doing the bottom row in R4 has been that there are no molds for 1.25u keys in semi matte finish, which most organizers have been using with SA. Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.

Does anyone have a picture of what the matte finish looks like, and does it make a big change in the feel of the keys?

23 Commando was mostly matte finish, in 1-2-3-3-3-4 profile. However, the correctly sized Shifts and Return keys are only available in semi matte finish.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xx_WKcIKBeI/UoG9F36xSFI/AAAAAAAAFCY/mBNlghbDERM/w1000-h667-no/225.png)
Photo credit: jil_jil32



This is why most recent full contour SA sets, including my Hack'd By Geeks, have been 3-1-2-3-4-3 row profiles in semi matte. It's always some compromise with SA.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Thu, 09 April 2015, 08:28:42
After seeing the picture JD shared, I would totally be down for for a matte finish. But the only problem I see is that SP doesn't have the right tools for everything we would need for a sculpted profile set (semi matte or matte), so it might be best to stick to a row3 layout?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 09 April 2015, 08:32:51
After seeing the picture JD shared, I would totally be down for for a matte finish. But the only problem I see is that SP doesn't have the right tools for everything we would need for a sculpted profile set (semi matte or matte), so it might be best to stick to a row3 layout?

I'd rather deal with finish mismatches, or compromises like row 3 shifts in an otherwise row 4 row. I have a set of the Filco sphericals, which are SA profile SP caps in 1-2-3-3-3-3, and I much prefer my PuLSE set in 3-1-2-3-4-3. I simply do not enjoy typing on a flat, non-contoured key surface.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Thu, 09 April 2015, 08:49:59
Are the color choices still open for suggestions?

I owned a C64 and C128 and Amiga 1000 back in the day, so I'm all over this set. However, the colors you used for Retro DSA were not authentic colors. Since you chose a Commodore logo key legend, I assumed this cap set was an homage to the Commodore line, and perhaps by extension all of the home computers and consoles of the 80s.

The Vic 20 and C64 had dark brown keys, but their function keys were either a caramel color or a lighter greyish brown color. I've found photos with both (linking instead of embedding so I don't overwhelm the post with huge inline photos):

http://classiccmp.org/dunfield/c64/h/front.jpg

http://www.bitstormgames.com/revivalstudios/images/homebrew/vic20/vic20.png

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/39/CBMVIC20P8.jpg

Obviously, the color choices are up to you, Matt3o. But it would be cool to have some options for mods and fkeys that are in line with the old Commodores!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 09 April 2015, 09:17:46
Who will handle fulfillment?

not clear yet. would you be interested? :D In case please contact me directly

matt3o, the only problem with doing the bottom row in R4 has been that there are no molds for 1.25u keys in semi matte finish, which most organizers have been using with SA. Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.

Yes I'm aware of the situation. It seems that there's not much love for row-4 on the bottom row, so I'll probably go for a standard 3-1-2-3-4-3 but the shift keys would be row-3...

I owned a C64 and C128 and Amiga 1000 back in the day, so I'm all over this set. However, the colors you used for Retro DSA were not authentic colors. Since you chose a Commodore logo key legend, I assumed this cap set was an homage to the Commodore line, and perhaps by extension all of the home computers and consoles of the 80s.

The set is inspired by the C64. We also had a beige set of function rows (http://cdn.keypuller.com/2014/07/dsa-retro-BimboBB_.jpg), and some novelties ("run/stop", and "restore").

The alternate color for the mods were "plum" but we can choose otherwise. Maybe beige, or even yellow this time.

Okay so, excluding the row-4 bottom line the other options are:

1) 3 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 3 (with wrong shifts)
2) 2 - 2 - 3 - 3 - 3 - 3
3) 1 - 2 - 3 - 3 - 3 - 3
4) 1 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 3 - 3
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Thu, 09 April 2015, 09:28:07
How about a 2-1-2-3-3-3?

Otherwise I'd go with options 3 and 4
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 09 April 2015, 09:32:42
Option 1 for me
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 09 April 2015, 09:36:51
Option 1 for me

+1
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Thu, 09 April 2015, 09:50:36
The set is inspired by the C64. We also had a beige set of function rows (http://cdn.keypuller.com/2014/07/dsa-retro-BimboBB_.jpg), and some novelties ("run/stop", and "restore").

The alternate color for the mods were "plum" but we can choose otherwise. Maybe beige, or even yellow this time.

Okay the beige fkeys with the brown keys don't look so good to me. Maybe with beige mods and brown F5-F8? The plum looks really nice together with the brown, though, so maybe just stick with that even if it isn't "canon."

RUN STOP would make a great Pause/Break key replacements, so that would be a definite buy for me, along with any other novelty legends based on the old Commodores. (SHIFT LOCK, RESTORE, CLR HOME, etc.)

I'll have to print out a sticker with the rainbow lines on it to put on the board, too. And maybe a red power LED. :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Nuum on Thu, 09 April 2015, 10:16:46
Brown and yellow sounds like a good idea! I like profile option 1 the most.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Thu, 09 April 2015, 10:31:10
matt3o, the only problem with doing the bottom row in R4 has been that there are no molds for 1.25u keys in semi matte finish, which most organizers have been using with SA. Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.

Penumbra has semi-matte row 4 bottom row keys, so I'm sure they can do it. Typing on them right now.. ;)

Have they STILL not finalised those Row 4 Shifts?!.... sigh...

I want 1-1-2-3-4-4 like modern Cherry profile, although 3-1-2-3-4-3 is also nice. Full sculpt over the alpha and number keys is awesome.

Favourite: 1-1-2-3-4-4
Next best: 1-2-3-3-3-4 like Penumbra and Commando or 3-1-2-3-4-3 like Pulse and Hack'd by Geeks.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 09 April 2015, 11:26:38
Penumbra has semi-matte row 4 bottom row keys, so I'm sure they can do it. Typing on them right now.. ;)

Penumbra has 1.25u bottom row mods in semi-matte finish?


Have they STILL not finalised those Row 4 Shifts?!.... sigh...

No, and while they haven't said this specifically to me, I don't believe they have any plans to make them, unless we pay for them ($4000 per mold).
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 09 April 2015, 11:28:30
No, and while they haven't said this specifically to me, I don't believe they have any plans to make them, unless we pay for them ($4000 per mold).

$4500 last time I checked........
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 09 April 2015, 11:33:03
No, and while they haven't said this specifically to me, I don't believe they have any plans to make them, unless we pay for them ($4000 per mold).

$4500 last time I checked........

Yeah, $13,500 is kinda hard to build into a group buy of 200 orders or so...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Thu, 09 April 2015, 11:40:50
Exciting! I've been waiting for this a long time.

I feel like the plum color really made the set, and would love to see it back.

Colemak support is very important to me. Are there plans to offer an adapter kit?

Edit: corrected auto-corrected word.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: techmattr on Thu, 09 April 2015, 21:00:18
Oh man I can't wait for this. I really wish it was going to be all R3. So much more comfortable to type on than sculpted. But this set will be way too amazing to pass up.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 09 April 2015, 21:37:11
Actually the MORE I look at Matt3o's design up top here with the majority of the keys being brown and only 2 keys (ESC and Enter) being Green is perfection.

It helps to keep the costing down like the Nuclears had been but still drawing people in to admire their simplicity which will last for years ahead.  Please remember that Matt3o is a qualified Designer and he's Italian meaning he has more credibility here on this subject than anyone else at Geekhack central.

Very happy for you to put through this design to SP for manufacturing because it encapsulates the real meaning of Retro without it looking like some kind of Clown Colour-way attracting colour blind morons.

We are educated individuals who want a conservative expression of our keyboards and it's always those simple colour-ways, that will go into the Book of Legends  8) .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 10 April 2015, 00:53:17
Penumbra has semi-matte row 4 bottom row keys, so I'm sure they can do it. Typing on them right now.. ;)

Penumbra has 1.25u bottom row mods in semi-matte finish?


Have they STILL not finalised those Row 4 Shifts?!.... sigh...

No, and while they haven't said this specifically to me, I don't believe they have any plans to make them, unless we pay for them ($4000 per mold).

Yup, my KBT Pure has them on and they look and feel super-duper. You can see some pics of them here: http://keypuller.com/penumbra-sa/

With all the SA profile group buys happening you'd think they may be willing to invest in those Shift molds. Perhaps we need to spread the cost over a couple group buys? So we could ask them to include the cost of one mold per GB if people show willingness in the interest check stage for the GB.

With those Row 4 Shift molds made I don't see anything preventing full 1-1-2-3-4-4 sets being produced. Of course the spacebar will remain symmetrical, though, which is as it should be. I hate the sharp edge of the angled DCS spacebar and I don't like the aesthetic of "flipping" it. Imagine the Penumbra top and bottom rows on the Pulse set and you can get an idea of what a true full contour board would look like.

I actually find the Row 3 Shifts and bottom row of Pulse quite nice, the way it makes a flat zone separate from the alphas, but would still prefer full contour. Even 1-1-2-3-4-4 with Row 3 Shifts could look pretty cool, with the mod contour being "delayed" by one row.

Anyway, just my opinions, YMMV, etc, but I thought I'd share.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Fri, 10 April 2015, 01:11:34
Option 1 for me

+1

I agreed with JD's arguments for "fully sculpted" for the Hack'd by Geeks GB, which were the same arguments for Pulse.

It's a pity row 4 on the bottom row isn't an option, but why is row 1 on the top row not an option? i.e. why not 1-1-2-3-4-3?
If it's just for inter-changeability with other row 3 keys, novelties, etc. then I'm OK with that, just curious.


Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 01:59:40
With those Row 4 Shift molds made I don't see anything preventing full 1-1-2-3-4-4 sets being produced.

How is it typing or row-4 on the bottom row? Many says that since you use your thumbs on the modifiers it is better to have them flat row-3.

It's a pity row 4 on the bottom row isn't an option, but why is row 1 on the top row not an option? i.e. why not 1-1-2-3-4-3?
If it's just for inter-changeability with other row 3 keys, novelties, etc. then I'm OK with that, just curious.

yes it is mostly for compatibility with novelties.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 03:38:10
this is NOT final.

just to get feedback! We miss a lot of kits of course. Don't worry I'll put them back.

(http://i.imgur.com/oYg0S7N.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Fri, 10 April 2015, 03:43:13
this is NOT final.

just to get feedback! We miss a lot of kits of course. Don't worry I'll put them back.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/oYg0S7N.png)


I see myself having to spend a lot of money in the near future
And yes, I'm liking the colors  :thumb:
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Lpwl on Fri, 10 April 2015, 03:59:07
ISO support ?
w/ International kit ?

Still dreaming :p
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 10 April 2015, 04:00:04
With those Row 4 Shift molds made I don't see anything preventing full 1-1-2-3-4-4 sets being produced.

How is it typing or row-4 on the bottom row? Many says that since you use your thumbs on the modifiers it is better to have them flat row-3.

...

The angle is not very much and I find it very nice. I use my pinkie for Ctrl and thumb for the "WinKey" position to actuate my Fn layer. I actually prefer the Row 4 mods on Penumbra to the Row 3 mods on Pulse. Due to their positions my hand position is different than when normally typing and my thumbs are angled to match when they press them. I like the "flat" (symmetrical) spacebar and feel they work well together and I like the look, too.

You should maybe ask more guys with Penumbra and Commando sets to get more opinions on this, though. [EDIT] Also Calm Depths uses semi-matte Row 4 mods.[/EDIT]

Here's a pic of Penumbra that shows the angle well:
[attach=1]

this is NOT final.

just to get feedback! We miss a lot of kits of course. Don't worry I'll put them back.

More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/oYg0S7N.png)

That's looking super hot! I like it a lot.

I would be very happy if the set came in 1-1-2-3-4-4 with Row 3 Shifts and maybe a possible small GB later for Row 4 Shifts if they ever get made.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 10 April 2015, 04:38:39
this is NOT final.

just to get feedback! We miss a lot of kits of course. Don't worry I'll put them back.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/oYg0S7N.png)


PLEASE make these ones the FINAL propositions.

At first I was happy with just one simple colour-way of Brown but you have once again poured hot-water down my short fronts and burned my nether-region with ever more excellent choices, yet again.

Let us know when this will be posted in the Group Buy section here on Geekhack or SP's Vendor Section.......
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 04:46:37
I know doing this in just one color would be cheaper, but I'm all about options :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 10 April 2015, 05:34:55
I know doing this in just one color would be cheaper, but I'm all about options :)

My fave is the ESC, F1 to F12 and Print Screen, Screen Lock, Run STOP keys in Orange and subdued Warm Grey, Just fvcking PERFECT  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: .

It's the small colour-strips that makes this key-set BRILLIANT in every way.

Also Matt, PLEASE include one "Refresh Key" like you've used in the original DSA series, in Green - which I personally use as my F5 web key.  Your design was the first one that made the F5 key that much more pleasurable to use within Firefox.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 05:41:02
Also Matt, PLEASE include one "Refresh Key" like you've used in the original DSA series, in Green - which I personally use as my F5 web key.  Your design was the first one that made the F5 key that much more pleasurable to use within Firefox.

almost forgot about that! thanks!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Fri, 10 April 2015, 06:43:30
I also love the look of that dark brown for alphas and mods, with just the function row in beige and lime green Esc/Enter.

(http://cdn.keypuller.com/2014/07/dsa-retro-BimboBB_.jpg)

Would you consider an option of white mods with brown legends (or just an Esc/Enter/Arrows pack)?

Sort of inspired by the black alphas/white mods of the TRS-80:

(http://classiccmp.org/dunfield/trs80/h/m4front.jpg)

(http://jscustom.theoldcomputer.com/images/manufacturers_systems/Tandy-Radio-Shack/TRS-80-Model-4/103672tandy-trs-80-model4.system.jpg)




Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 07:02:44
Would you consider an option of white mods with brown legends (or just an Esc/Enter/Arrows pack)?

this might a nice idea. Let's see how many kits we end up with!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: osi on Fri, 10 April 2015, 07:24:50
This may be my first SA set!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: SL89 on Fri, 10 April 2015, 07:39:52
As i said on the DT thread. All R3, or Filco-like or Filco-on-steroids makes the most sense for Retro. Also using those options would mean (hopefully) easier inclusion of alternate mods or kits or addons and etc without having to worry so much about international concerns, alternative layouts and profile issues.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: blastoid on Fri, 10 April 2015, 07:45:41
Anyone else interested in having the C64 front-printed symbols? In DSA it wouldn't have really worked, but SA obviously has much more surface area. Can SP even do that?

I also think it would be fantastic to get the original C64 typeface, but that would require new molds and many thousands of dollars.  :(
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 10 April 2015, 07:50:10
I know the whole set ran with RBC / WAA for the first round, but I think TAA / WCK would better match the original caps (and a more timeless, classic feel). RBC definitely looks too light to my eye, but perhaps you had a good reason for choosing the lighter colour?

Perhaps an option for inverted alphas? I really, really like how WCK alphas with TAA legends would look with TAA mods and WCK legends... drool... I've been thinking of running this colourway as a GB, but it's quite close to Retro colours for the mods and Penumbra solarized for the alphas. If this set runs with the original colours (which I suppose most people expect and want it to) I think I will put together a GB with TAA/WCK at some point in the future.. Perhaps once the Row 4 Shift molds exist... or maybe as part of getting them funded. Problem is there are so many SA profile GB's either running or planned at the moment.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 10 April 2015, 08:12:57
With all the SA profile group buys happening you'd think they may be willing to invest in those Shift molds. Perhaps we need to spread the cost over a couple group buys? So we could ask them to include the cost of one mold per GB if people show willingness in the interest check stage for the GB.

You would think. Unfortunately, they won't do anything on "credit," so what would need to happen is the organizers of the next several SA group buys (not run through PMK) would need to get together and create a fund toward getting the molds made, add a "mold creation fee" to every order in their group buy, and add to the fund until it had built up the $18,000 or whatever is needed to pay for the new molds. The problem there is twofold. First, the organizers have to all agree to do it, and also not to run their buys through PMK. Second, the cost of each set in the GB would necessarily go up to add the fee. If you are like me and BunnyLake, and make one big kit that costs $115-120, how many people would be willing to pay $140 for the same set, just for the prospect of one day in the future having the correct row profile shifts?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Fri, 10 April 2015, 08:42:06
With all the SA profile group buys happening you'd think they may be willing to invest in those Shift molds. Perhaps we need to spread the cost over a couple group buys? So we could ask them to include the cost of one mold per GB if people show willingness in the interest check stage for the GB.

You would think. Unfortunately, they won't do anything on "credit," so what would need to happen is the organizers of the next several SA group buys (not run through PMK) would need to get together and create a fund toward getting the molds made, add a "mold creation fee" to every order in their group buy, and add to the fund until it had built up the $18,000 or whatever is needed to pay for the new molds. The problem there is twofold. First, the organizers have to all agree to do it, and also not to run their buys through PMK. Second, the cost of each set in the GB would necessarily go up to add the fee. If you are like me and BunnyLake, and make one big kit that costs $115-120, how many people would be willing to pay $140 for the same set, just for the prospect of one day in the future having the correct row profile shifts?

Exactly. And why would they invest when orders for SA sets keep flooding in to them? It's not like the shift molds it would increase the number of GBs that GeekHack would organise.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 09:05:04
I know the whole set ran with RBC / WAA for the first round, but I think TAA / WCK would better match the original caps (and a more timeless, classic feel). RBC definitely looks too light to my eye, but perhaps you had a good reason for choosing the lighter colour?

The colors will be most likely WCK on TBN, which seems pretty close to the original. RBC is just for those who don't care about the retro aspect and just want a nice color combo.

I might add TBN on GTM mods, which looks pretty cool to me as an alternative.

Anyone else interested in having the C64 front-printed symbols? In DSA it wouldn't have really worked, but SA obviously has much more surface area. Can SP even do that?

I thought about it but that would just make price higher without any real added functionality (apart from vanity). We could side print something like media keys, but we would never agree on where to put them.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Fri, 10 April 2015, 09:59:24
Is there any way to crowdsource the creation of the shift molds, either in part or total? I don't know what's involved. I mean, there are a lot of skilled people with access to tools and facilities in these forums.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 10:12:12
Technically feasible, but it would be still $9000 pro-bono. People complain if they get 3 keycaps that they don't use in each and every GB...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Ouro on Fri, 10 April 2015, 10:39:26
I've been wanting this set ever since I saw the keyboard it was inspired by.

I like PuLSe's contoured profile but I'm not opposed to trying new things with keyboards. Just be gentle
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 10 April 2015, 11:05:19
....
The colors will be most likely WCK on TBN, which seems pretty close to the original. ...

Sounds good :) They're close enough. And TBN on GTM mods would suit nicely, too. Very much like the function keys on some of the boards.

Better start preparing for massive numbers of orders.... DSA Retro has whetted appetites for the colourway and the SA hype is big right now. :D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Fri, 10 April 2015, 11:57:01
The colors will be most likely WCK on TBN, which seems pretty close to the original. RBC is just for those who don't care about the retro aspect and just want a nice color combo.

I might add TBN on GTM mods, which looks pretty cool to me as an alternative.

I like both those colour ideas... off-white legends on the brown, brown legends on the beige.

If you add extra keys in OAS, you will have successfully hacked my wallet!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Loligagger on Fri, 10 April 2015, 13:33:38
Will there be a sculpted ergodox (plum) mods set?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 13:36:32
Ok, at this point all I need to know is.

Function row: ROW-1 or ROW-3 ?

Will there be a sculpted ergodox (plum) mods set?

possibly, yes.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 10 April 2015, 13:39:02
Ok, at this point all I need to know is.

Function row: ROW-1 or ROW-3 ?

Either one is fine, but I have a slight preference for Row 1.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Ouro on Fri, 10 April 2015, 14:14:55
Row 1 please and thank tou
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: matchstik on Fri, 10 April 2015, 14:28:56
I also love the look of that dark brown for alphas and mods, with just the function row in beige and lime green Esc/Enter.

Show Image
(http://cdn.keypuller.com/2014/07/dsa-retro-BimboBB_.jpg)



My fave so far. Definitely on the list for this set.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 10 April 2015, 15:01:24
I prefer Row 1.
Title: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 10 April 2015, 15:09:26
Since it appears that SP can do R4 1.25u mods in semi matte finish, I'd say run it in 1-1-2-3-4-4, as Oobly suggested. With R3 shifts, of course.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Fri, 10 April 2015, 15:17:03
I also love the look of that dark brown for alphas and mods, with just the function row in beige and lime green Esc/Enter.

Show Image
(http://cdn.keypuller.com/2014/07/dsa-retro-BimboBB_.jpg)


Oh yeah, this.  This right here.  Yes.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Fri, 10 April 2015, 16:07:25
Technically feasible, but it would be still $9000 pro-bono. People complain if they get 3 keycaps that they don't use in each and every GB...
I meant more along the lines of expertise, milling/shaping/making the molds, CAD, etc. Obviously they don't just put money in a machine and the molds come out; there's some sort of process. Maybe that process can be assisted somehow. I dunno.

Like, for instance, someone could quote me $10000 for some landscaping, but if I was able to source my own materials from a landscaper friend, I could save some money. And if I dug it out myself with some friends and some beers ahead of time instead of paying them $150/hr, I could save more money.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 10 April 2015, 16:41:42
Since it appears that SP can do R4 1.25u mods in semi matte finish, I'd say run it in 1-1-2-3-4-4, as Oobly suggested. With R3 shifts, of course.

I'm not sold about R4 on the modifiers. SA shape doesn't seem right for R4 in the bottom row. Actually probably row-2 would work better :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 10 April 2015, 17:02:03
Since it appears that SP can do R4 1.25u mods in semi matte finish, I'd say run it in 1-1-2-3-4-4, as Oobly suggested. With R3 shifts, of course.

I'm not sold about R4 on the modifiers. SA shape doesn't seem right for R4 in the bottom row. Actually probably row-2 would work better :)

Actually, I think I'd like a uniform R4 set. :)



Here it is on jacobolus' keycap profile demonstrator. A little less angle on the "keyboard" and all the tops would be parallel to the desk.

(http://i.imgur.com/eoN4LeU.jpg)
Photo credit: jacobolus
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Fri, 10 April 2015, 17:55:15
A row 4 set would be cool. For wierd alternate layout ErgoDox people like me, mono-profile is the best!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 03:39:05
Please double, triple, quadruple check it.

We still miss: ergodox and international kit (we will have 3: UK, DE-IT-Nordic, FR)

Of course we will have spacebars available in all sizes

(http://i.imgur.com/OlXya7F.png)

These are the possible color combos:

Pure Retro
(http://i.imgur.com/2zbDatc.png)

Limed
(http://i.imgur.com/vUsNQAj.png)

Plum
(http://i.imgur.com/RuuxrRL.png)

Sad man
(http://i.imgur.com/0Lj3KCA.png)

I'm not sure about this last one. We'll see
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Jokrik on Sat, 11 April 2015, 05:43:25
Please double, triple, quadruple check it.

We still miss: ergodox and international kit (we will have 3: UK, DE-IT-Nordic, FR)

Of course we will have spacebars available in all sizes

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/OlXya7F.png)


These are the possible color combos:

Pure Retro
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/2zbDatc.png)


Limed
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vUsNQAj.png)


Plum
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/RuuxrRL.png)


Sad man
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0Lj3KCA.png)


I'm not sure about this last one. We'll see
Please mang, I'm running out of keyboard to put all my keyset on
nevertheless, not sure about the last one myself
but the plum still look really good (I own the DSA one) :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 11 April 2015, 06:07:16
I also love the look of that dark brown for alphas and mods, with just the function row in beige and lime green Esc/Enter.

Show Image
(http://cdn.keypuller.com/2014/07/dsa-retro-BimboBB_.jpg)


That is a nice design!

This may be my first SA set!

Might be my third :(
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Sat, 11 April 2015, 07:46:17
I've seen how the Plum looks on actual sets (even if they were DSA, not SA) but I'm not sure how the Sad Man colors would look in real life. With a new round of Penumbra probably coming up, I don't really want to get all the kits and blow my whole wad without knowing if I'll like it or not.

If someone could do a realistic render or hue adjustment on an existing photo so we could get a better idea of what Sad Man would look like, that would be awesome.

Matt3o, how about a dark gray instead of beige? Do you think that might be more appealing? That way you could stick with white legends. Let me find a photo of the Plum and I can do a hue shift on it.

Edit: Never mind, dark gray with dark brown would be lame.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Sat, 11 April 2015, 08:43:07
I did some quick hue shifts to play around with colors a bit:

Brownish
(http://i.imgur.com/1AZ4lEN.png)

Green
(http://i.imgur.com/PJGJfSa.png)

Gray
(http://i.imgur.com/zhI6DHy.png)

The beige/brown doesn't look too bad. Green doesn't look too bad either. :) I know this is DSA, but I just wanted to get a better idea.

Edit: The brown wasn't light enough, here's another version, with enhanced brown on the alphas because that photo made them look pretty black:

(http://i.imgur.com/L8nStYj.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 09:01:31
I like the gray one (a lot), but I believe 2 color combos (with green accent) are more than enough.

If there's interest I might change the burgundy with the beige/gray
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Sat, 11 April 2015, 09:28:13
I like the beige a lot too, with white legends. The mockup with a pale beige/brown legends isn't as good as I expected... I think mods which are dark enough for consistent white legends throughout work the best for this set. A warm/brownish beige like GCS would work well.

For me, the "charm" of DSA Retro was it being that vintage brown feeling, not because of the plum/burgundy, or even the green (though that's a perfect accent colour). All mods in green or plum are too much "colour" for my taste, but that two-tone brown/beige really looks great!

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 09:34:11
Almost all kits. Please review! And cast your preference on burgundy vs gray

(http://i.imgur.com/PEqNcjw.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Sat, 11 April 2015, 09:46:49
Are brown function row keys missing?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 09:50:36
Are brown function row keys missing?

yes :) the "standard" retro feel includes a beige function row (or yellow... as per the original C64)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Sat, 11 April 2015, 10:14:34
Is the burgundy the same color as last time? I can't tell from the mockups, but I'm all for it if it is.

No love for Colemak?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Sat, 11 April 2015, 10:16:25
If I had to pick one set of those, it would be:

Base + Burgundy Modifiers + Lime Gist

One suggestion, though: could you add one or two C= keys in green for the Lime Gist kit?

I did some more playing around. I inverted the colors of the base + burgundy, and then did one in gray:

(http://i.imgur.com/XYT4U3Y.png)

(http://i.imgur.com/Llv0DFr.png)

I think the burgundy keys with gray mods looks amazing.

Please let me know if my suggestions are annoying or not helpful at all. I have a tendency to get over-enthused and butt into stuff sometimes! :D If that's the case here, my apologies!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 10:22:25
Is the burgundy the same color as last time? I can't tell from the mockups, but I'm all for it if it is.

Yes, burgundy is the same color as DSA Retro

One suggestion, though: could you add one or two C= keys in green for the Lime Gist kit?

Nice idea! And please keep sending your suggestions :D

I don't know if there's enough interest to add another color for alphas though.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Sat, 11 April 2015, 10:53:22
Are brown function row keys missing?

yes :) the "standard" retro feel includes a beige function row (or yellow... as per the original C64)

Cool ;) Lots of people like F1-F4 and F9-F12 to match the alphas when they have a contrasting mod colour, which they can't do with the burgundy kit.

Row 1 for function row! Awesome!

I liked how JD made the arrow cluster all row 4 in Hack'd by Geeks, with a row 2 up arrow as an extra, so it can be either common sculpted arrow cluster, or a "crater" within the arrow cluster. So looking at the current SA Retro layout, the left/down/right arrows are flat row 3, with a row 4 up arrow. Can you talk a bit about your design of the arrow cluster profiles, and the purpose of extra up arrows in row 2? My preference would be row 4 in the arrow cluster (I use arrow keys a lot and playing with some sample SA keys, it feels better to me). I'm not trying to be too critical ;) just curious and giving my opinion.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: abjr on Sat, 11 April 2015, 11:11:18
Almost all kits. Please review! And cast your preference on burgundy vs gray

I know the gray is truer to the original C64 color scheme, but for some reason the gray function row just looks out of place to me. I'd opt for the plum/burgundy.

Are brown function row keys missing?

yes :) the "standard" retro feel includes a beige function row (or yellow... as per the original C64)

Any chance to add a brown stripe for the function row as well? I really liked the "Limed" option you drew up earlier.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 11:13:58
Any chance to add a brown stripe for the function row as well? I really liked the "Limed" option you drew up earlier.

Fair enough!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Sat, 11 April 2015, 12:23:12
I prefer the grey by a large margin. Not interested in the burgundy. I think the brown/grey combo is great (Base + True Retro + Lime gist... very nice)!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Sat, 11 April 2015, 14:02:28
I don't know if there's enough interest to add another color for alphas though.

Yeah I hear ya. If there's too many different kits, none of them will reach MOQ on their own.

Maybe if the buy is wildly successful, more colors could be added later? ;)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Sat, 11 April 2015, 14:17:27
Yeah, I'd be in for that True Retro set and the Lime kit. Still unsure about the profile or if I should wait for DSA to come back around (maybe on Massdrop?).
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 11 April 2015, 17:05:23
Made other few updates

(http://i.imgur.com/MQ4Wsc5.png)

keep the suggestions coming
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: cryptowillem on Sat, 11 April 2015, 20:02:02
I really like that colorway. I don't know yet if I'd go with the retro or burgundy modifiers yet. Let's be honest, though, I'd probably get both.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 11 April 2015, 21:00:29
I really like that colorway. I don't know yet if I'd go with the retro or burgundy modifiers yet. Let's be honest, though, I'd probably get both.

So true, BUT this forth coming Group Buy is looking to be SO BIG that it will cater to one and all especially when you look at all the extras being offered.

AGAIN we shall be Retro'ed to death for the next month or two with the numerous variety of colour-ways that could be applied here, staggers the average Geekhacker's mind  :o .

Good to be a registered forum user here on this site because of what's coming down the line  :thumb: .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 11 April 2015, 21:08:53
To me the gray seems a bit odd.  The rest of the colours are orange/brown hue, with contrasting green highlights.

The gray just seems bland in comparison.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Sun, 12 April 2015, 11:04:14
Why don't the burgundy mods have the green highlight keys?

Mito's PuLSE set offered a sculpted Colemak adapter pack that did well enough to tip. I imagine you'll get at least as much interest here. Certainly from me!

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 12 April 2015, 11:21:29
Updates

(http://i.imgur.com/X9UjKP0.png)

Can someone point me to a colemak kit?

Also, is the ergodox fine?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Loligagger on Sun, 12 April 2015, 12:23:06
Ergodox kits look fine to me.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Sun, 12 April 2015, 16:08:56
Can someone point me to a colemak kit?

I'm not a colemak user, but this tipped: Pulse SA colemak kit (http://www.pimpmykeyboard.com/deals/pulse-sa-colepack/)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: abjr on Sun, 12 April 2015, 17:12:12
Any chance to add a brown stripe for the function row as well? I really liked the "Limed" option you drew up earlier.

Fair enough!

Molte grazie!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 02:28:27
More updates! Still playing with the green keys. Added colemak... make it tip!

(http://i.imgur.com/nlDvput.png)

I believe we only miss the international kits
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 13 April 2015, 02:51:21
More updates! Still playing with the green keys. Added colemak... make it tip!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/nlDvput.png)


I believe we only miss the international kits

Personally I shall be going for an ALL Brown colour-way with authentic Commodore Insignia.

I'll make this baby tip, so don't worry Matt3o your latest artistic expression shall be SP's greatest version made yet, from their molds.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: azhdar on Mon, 13 April 2015, 03:00:20
as always anything with Inter kit will be an insta-buy for me.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 13 April 2015, 04:25:48
To be consistent, the numpad should use both ÷ and ×, or both / and *

Bumping my previous question:
I liked how JD made the arrow cluster all row 4 in Hack'd by Geeks, with a row 2 up arrow as an extra, so it can be either common sculpted arrow cluster, or a "crater" within the arrow cluster. So looking at the current SA Retro layout, the left/down/right arrows are flat row 3, with a row 4 up arrow. Can you talk a bit about your design of the arrow cluster profiles, and the purpose of extra up arrows in row 2? My preference would be row 4 in the arrow cluster (I use arrow keys a lot and playing with some sample SA keys, it feels better to me). I'm not trying to be too critical ;) just curious and giving my opinion.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 04:34:29
someone finds the UP arrow in R2 easier to press than R4. It's the same profile as the realforce.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Lpwl on Mon, 13 April 2015, 05:17:31
as always anything with Inter kit will be an insta-buy for me.

^ this.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 13 April 2015, 05:18:09
The OS kits have Windows and Linux logo modifiers, but no Apple command and option icon modifiers?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 06:03:01
The OS kits have Windows and Linux logo modifiers, but no Apple command and option icon modifiers?

you have a whole kit just for apple!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 13 April 2015, 06:12:20
The OS kits have Windows and Linux logo modifiers, but no Apple command and option icon modifiers?

you have a whole kit just for apple!

The Apple ][ kits?  There are no icon modifiers there, just text legends.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 13 April 2015, 06:23:13
The OS kits have Windows and Linux logo modifiers, but no Apple command and option icon modifiers?

you have a whole kit just for apple!

Why would you even bother........?

Less people are using Apple than Linux especially here on Geekhack. 

Time to convince them Jobsie losers to join the winning crowd here and stop wasting money on that weirdo OS pretending to be a Mobile Phone, just like the current MS rubbish from Redmond.

Happy for Matt in keeping it real and have ONLY the Commodore Logo installed because it's the epitome of true RETRO, so that's it  8) .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 06:59:01
The OS kits have Windows and Linux logo modifiers, but no Apple command and option icon modifiers?

you have a whole kit just for apple!

The Apple ][ kits?  There are no icon modifiers there, just text legends.

Apple does not use the apple icon anymore on keyboards.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Mon, 13 April 2015, 07:19:53
More updates! Still playing with the green keys. Added colemak... make it tip!

Thanks! I'll make sure it tips. The "T" and "N" keys need some homing dishes, and one of the "R"s should be an "E".

Regarding the lime kits, I'd like that refresh key, but it's the only lime key I want that's in the Extra Lime Kit. I don't feel really strongly about this, but just giving you a data point.

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: nathanrosspowell on Mon, 13 April 2015, 08:42:24
More updates! Still playing with the green keys. Added colemak... make it tip!

Thanks! I'll make sure it tips. The "T" and "N" keys need some homing dishes, and one of the "R"s should be an "E".

Regarding the lime kits, I'd like that refresh key, but it's the only lime key I want that's in the Extra Lime Kit. I don't feel really strongly about this, but just giving you a data point.

Yea, that is an error having two R's in the kit.

I should have linked Matt3o to this kit as well: Pulse SA Homing Keys (http://www.pimpmykeyboard.com/deals/pulse-sa-deep-beats/). That is where the homing keys where in that keyset.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 09:07:38
This might be it!

PLEASE check all kits especially the international!!!!

(http://i.imgur.com/aqkWoBD.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 13 April 2015, 09:24:19
To be consistent, the numpad should use both ÷ and ×, or both / and *

"/" is more retro, but I don't really mind "÷"... I just like things to match. To my eyes, it's like having "DIVIDE" and "ASTERISK" on those keys.
 If you have a reason for it the way it is, that's fine. Just trying to prevent "errors".

I don't have OCD :D I just sympathize with those who do.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 09:27:11
I fixed that, don't worry :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 13 April 2015, 09:33:48
:)

BTW how can people make their own BrownFox clone without a 6U spacebar?  ;)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Lpwl on Mon, 13 April 2015, 09:42:45
'E €' (R2) key seems to be missing from both International kits (FR-IT & NORDIC).
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: abjr on Mon, 13 April 2015, 09:45:30
Just some observations:

1) Any reason to not combine the Lime kits together? (price?)
2) Could the SUPER keys be moved from the OS kit to the Modifiers kit? (like Granite)
3) I noticed there's no brown ISO enter (not sure if anyone cares)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 10:28:47
'E �' (R2) key seems to be missing from both International kits (FR-IT & NORDIC).

only if there's really a huge demand of that.

Just some observations:

1) Any reason to not combine the Lime kits together? (price?)
2) Could the SUPER keys be moved from the OS kit to the Modifiers kit? (like Granite)
3) I noticed there's no brown ISO enter (not sure if anyone cares)

1) yes, price
2) nope. sorry. The standard super key for Retro is C64 (DSA retro didn't even have the OS kit)
3) ISO enter are expensive. It's one or the other I'm afraid
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: abjr on Mon, 13 April 2015, 10:53:47
No worries, I prefer the C64 key anyway :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: techmattr on Mon, 13 April 2015, 12:19:58
This might be it!

More
PLEASE check all kits especially the international!!!!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/aqkWoBD.png)

I see you added a R3 1.75u Control did you also add a R4 1u Delete somewhere? The Delete probably isn't all that important but it would be nice for a complete Minila kit.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 12:49:51
you are right, I simply forgot about it :) so many keys! :P
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 13:34:45
Here we are...

(http://i.imgur.com/HGdj9z3.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: techmattr on Mon, 13 April 2015, 13:59:54
Nice. This is looking so good. Fantastic work on this. I'm definitely going to need multiple sets   :D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Mon, 13 April 2015, 14:31:43
But... why Row 3 bottom row? There is no other sculptured profile that does that. Please can we have Row 4 so this will be the first FULL sculptured SA set like GMK, Cherry, DCS, OEM, etc (I know the Shifts will be Row 3, but that's the ONLY part of the set that won't match a full sculptured profile)? Please? Penumbra bottom row is great... I want my Row 4 :( I don't like how Row 3 Ctrl feels on my pinkies.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 13 April 2015, 16:38:54
I'm not picky about it, but many say that row3 is more ergonomic on the bottom row.

What do you guys prefer, row-3 or 4 as bottom row?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 13 April 2015, 19:20:25
I really don't understand how people think row 3 bottom row is more ergonomic... row 4 on the bottom row is similar to standard bottom row in other keycap profiles like Cherry, DCS, Filco, OEM and buckling spring.

The top row was changed from R3 to R1 for that "authentic" vintage feel... so why not make it fully sculpted all the way to the bottom row?


matt3o, the only problem with doing the bottom row in R4 has been that there are no molds for 1.25u keys in semi matte finish, which most organizers have been using with SA. Those are only available in matte finish. I think doing an entire set in matte finish would be nice, though.

23 Commando was mostly matte finish, in 1-2-3-3-3-4 profile. However, the correctly sized Shifts and Return keys are only available in semi matte finish.

Show Image
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xx_WKcIKBeI/UoG9F36xSFI/AAAAAAAAFCY/mBNlghbDERM/w1000-h667-no/225.png)

Photo credit: jil_jil32

This is why most recent full contour SA sets, including my Hack'd By Geeks, have been 3-1-2-3-4-3 row profiles in semi matte. It's always some compromise with SA.

So the choices are:

A. Semi-matte, bottom row in R3.
B. Semi-matte, bottom row in R4, except matte 1.25U R4 mods.
C. Matte, bottom row in R4, except semi-matte Shifts and Returns
D. Semi-matte, bottom row in R3 and R4 <-- don't do this!

I'd definitely prefer bottom row in R4... so either option B or C.

How did Penumbra deal with the R4 bottom row matte vs. semi-matte compromise? Is it mostly semi-matte or matte?

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Mon, 13 April 2015, 21:06:14
Now that the set is looking good and nearly finalized, it's time to get nit-picky :)

I'm worried that the burgundy ErgoDox set is too burgundy.

Would rather your keyboard look like this?
[attach=1]

Or this?
[attach=2]

Edit: the embedded images are doing weird things. If they are broken, please let me know.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Loligagger on Mon, 13 April 2015, 21:31:22
A bit of lime in the burgundy ergodox kit would look good.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Mon, 13 April 2015, 22:38:01
I'm in favor of R4 for the bottom row. SP must have added a semi matte R4 1.25u key without updating their product sheet, because Penumbra definitely has them.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Tue, 14 April 2015, 00:05:12
...
How did Penumbra deal with the R4 bottom row matte vs. semi-matte compromise? Is it mostly semi-matte or matte?

They made them in semi-matte since SP do actually have Row 4 semi-matte molds for 1.25x size. It's only the Row 4 Shift molds they don't have yet.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: john2x on Tue, 14 April 2015, 01:51:09
Count me in as interested.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 14 April 2015, 02:18:29
I'm asking SP if they really have a full semi matte R4.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 14 April 2015, 11:55:46
I got back from Melissa.

1.25 is NOT available in semi-matte Row-4. So I believe I'll stick with R3 in the bottom row.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 15 April 2015, 07:23:59
I got back from Melissa.

1.25 is NOT available in semi-matte Row-4. So I believe I'll stick with R3 in the bottom row.

Wow.. that's weird. I wonder what the reason is. I guess that makes Penumbra (and Calm Depths) even more special.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 15 April 2015, 08:19:29
I got back from Melissa.

1.25 is NOT available in semi-matte Row-4. So I believe I'll stick with R3 in the bottom row.

Wow.. that's weird. I wonder what the reason is. I guess that makes Penumbra (and Calm Depths) even more special.

As far as I understand penumbra is matte on the bottom row.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 15 April 2015, 15:54:43
I got back from Melissa.

1.25 is NOT available in semi-matte Row-4. So I believe I'll stick with R3 in the bottom row.

Wow.. that's weird. I wonder what the reason is. I guess that makes Penumbra (and Calm Depths) even more special.

As far as I understand penumbra is matte on the bottom row.

Commando is matte, Penumbra and Calm Depths are completely semi-matte. I'm typing on Penumbra semi-matte Row 4 1.25x mods right now in fact, so I know they can physically make them. Maybe you can contact BunnyLake to ask about how they got them to do the Penumbra ones...

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 15 April 2015, 16:03:42
I got back from Melissa.

1.25 is NOT available in semi-matte Row-4. So I believe I'll stick with R3 in the bottom row.

Wow.. that's weird. I wonder what the reason is. I guess that makes Penumbra (and Calm Depths) even more special.

As far as I understand penumbra is matte on the bottom row.

Commando is matte, Penumbra and Calm Depths are completely semi-matte. I'm typing on Penumbra semi-matte Row 4 1.25x mods right now in fact, so I know they can physically make them. Maybe you can contact BunnyLake to ask about how they got them to do the Penumbra ones...



Yeah, I could hardly believe when you posted that, so I went and looked at my Penumbra set...

Sure enough, semi matte R4 1.25 sitting right there in the bag. WTF?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 15 April 2015, 16:16:10
guys either Melissa is mistaken or the difference between matte and semi-matte is hard to tell.

I can ask her for another confirmation, but she was pretty clear:

Quote
Sadly, no this isn't the case - the 1.25 keys are all matte top.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 15 April 2015, 16:21:46
guys either Melissa is mistaken or the difference between matte and semi-matte is hard to tell.

I can ask her for another confirmation, but she was pretty clear:

Quote
Sadly, no this isn't the case - the 1.25 keys are all matte top.


I think she must be mistaken, then. Because the proof exists in physical form. Apparently no one told the people on the floor they didn't have the molds for them, so they went ahead made Penumbra (and Calm Depths) with semi matte 1.25 R4 keys. It's crazy, I know. If I would have had this information at the time, I would have run Hack'd By Geeks in 1-1-2-3-4-4.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 15 April 2015, 16:26:41
mmh maybe Bunny has the rights on that key? I'll try to ask.

Edit: I asked again and she is checking with production. I'll keep you posted.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Wed, 15 April 2015, 18:39:22
Maybe they should check if they really don't have row 4 shift molds....  ;D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Thu, 16 April 2015, 09:41:24
Maybe they should check if they really don't have row 4 shift molds....  ;D
  :))
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 16 April 2015, 09:51:38
still no update...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 16 April 2015, 17:04:40
ok. confirmed.

SP has a semi-matte 1.25u R4 after all.

So I guess the layout will be 1-1-2-3-4-4
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: techmattr on Thu, 16 April 2015, 17:15:06
http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/ca0cda303fe7cd00cadd4d4d71d973a5

Do the pro mods have a 2u shift key? It's hard to tell the sizes on some of them.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 16 April 2015, 17:18:56
yes, that is a 2u shift
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jackiecanev2 on Thu, 16 April 2015, 19:45:20

ok. confirmed.

SP has a semi-matte 1.25u R4 after all.

So I guess the layout will be 1-1-2-3-4-4

Yeeeeees!!!!!!

So stoked.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 16 April 2015, 22:05:04
ok. confirmed.

SP has a semi-matte 1.25u R4 after all.

So I guess the layout will be 1-1-2-3-4-4

So Matt3o, everything is ready to go soon onto PMK's website  ;) ?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 17 April 2015, 01:43:14
ok. confirmed.

SP has a semi-matte 1.25u R4 after all.

So I guess the layout will be 1-1-2-3-4-4

That's nice. I'm happy.

(http://media3.giphy.com/media/HW05UrUSfAzZu/giphy.gif)

OMFG!!! This is going to be simply the BEST GB set EVAH!

....If I would have had this information at the time, I would have run Hack'd By Geeks in 1-1-2-3-4-4.

Where do I send the WMD's? That would have been EPIC! So sad about this.... what could have been. Maybe for Round 2? Once people see the set in person and pics posted on boards I think the interest will boom again.

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 17 April 2015, 04:30:44
In the effort to simplify the GB I made the following modifications. I believe it's a saner config that would hopefully reduce production errors.

(http://i.imgur.com/2pttFI6.png)

I hope I corrected all row-4 vs row-3...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Fri, 17 April 2015, 04:40:55
I think the alphas and mods in different packs was better idea. Because I was planning on getting both mods, now if I want both colors it will force me to buy both full sets  :'(
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: techmattr on Fri, 17 April 2015, 11:23:23
I think the alphas and mods in different packs was better idea. Because I was planning on getting both mods, now if I want both colors it will force me to buy both full sets  :'(

Agree. There will probably be a lot of people that want both sets of mods but don't want to buy 2 full sets.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 17 April 2015, 11:31:17
I agree with you guys, but it depends who will do logistics. If it's on me or (hopefully) BunnyLake I need to keep them contained. If it's PMK who cares :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Fri, 17 April 2015, 17:17:02
I agree with you guys, but it depends who will do logistics. If it's on me or (hopefully) BunnyLake I need to keep them contained. If it's PMK who cares :)

I thought it was going to be PMK that was going to it for sure, but if you or Bunny do it I can understand
I guess if you did it there would be some advantages and some disadvantages. But it would also be the same thing with PMK. It's all about which one has the most advantages
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Acanthophis on Fri, 17 April 2015, 19:24:38
No R3 1.75 stepped Control in Pro Mods?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 17 April 2015, 20:05:24
I agree with you guys, but it depends who will do logistics. If it's on me or (hopefully) BunnyLake I need to keep them contained. If it's PMK who cares :)

Please bare in mind that Bunny has a child coming in the next few weeks hence would it be right to force him into another Key-set Group Buy and Distribution Job?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 01:37:51
No R3 1.75 stepped Control in Pro Mods?

if you insist :)

I agree with you guys, but it depends who will do logistics. If it's on me or (hopefully) BunnyLake I need to keep them contained. If it's PMK who cares :)

Please bare in mind that Bunny has a child coming in the next few weeks hence would it be right to force him into another Key-set Group Buy and Distribution Job?

We talked lengthily the other day and we are both excited to start the collaboration. AFAIK there's still quite some time before the newborn. Also SA retro could start as soon as next week!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rickyhobby on Sat, 18 April 2015, 03:32:44
Awesome.  I'm definitely on board with this.  Since this is a C64 themed kit, I'm going for the grey true retro.  And probably several child kits.  ;)


This may be a bit late, but since this is a C64 themed kit what about (think TKL board) all brown alphas, modifiers, and F row along with all grey print screen, scroll lock, run stop, ins, del home, end, pgup, pgdn, arrows?  This would mimic the color layout of the C64 with it's all brown on the left, and all grey F keys on the right.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 03:43:26
Awesome.  I'm definitely on board with this.  Since this is a C64 themed kit, I'm going for the grey true retro.  And probably several child kits.  ;)


This may be a bit late, but since this is a C64 themed kit what about (think TKL board) all brown alphas, modifiers, and F row along with all grey print screen, scroll lock, run stop, ins, del home, end, pgup, pgdn, arrows?  This would mimic the color layout of the C64 with it's all brown on the left, and all grey F keys on the right.

that's actually a nice idea!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 18 April 2015, 03:48:58
We talked lengthily the other day and we are both excited to start the collaboration. AFAIK there's still quite some time before the newborn. Also SA retro could start as soon as next week!

BEAUTIFUL  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: .  SA Retro coming down NEXT WEEK, what more could a Geekhacker ever want here at this place  :o .

I've hand restless nights next to the Mrs and she was worried about me, but in reality I have been lusting after these Retros despite my evil wet-dreams getting all of my attention  ;) .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rickyhobby on Sat, 18 April 2015, 03:51:35
I agree with you guys, but it depends who will do logistics. If it's on me or (hopefully) BunnyLake I need to keep them contained. If it's PMK who cares :)

Perhaps you are already in contact with Bunny, but he recently said that penumbra round 2 is "gonna be the last SP buy i ever do, thats not to say there may not be other ctrl alt buys with sp at some point, but itll be the last one i ever do"
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=51026.msg1689499#msg1689499
FYI
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 04:08:07
Updates

(http://i.imgur.com/J4nhfEG.png)

Don't worry guys I talked with Bunny, everything's fine. it's not 100% fixed yet, so we might still go GMK or MD, but I would prefer having Bunny handling this
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 18 April 2015, 05:24:01
Updates

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/J4nhfEG.png)


Don't worry guys I talked with Bunny, everything's fine. it's not 100% fixed yet, so we might still go GMK or MD, but I would prefer having Bunny handling this

Now you mention GMK, and this suddenly goes into ORBIT as something truly SPECTACULAR.

Please stop doing this, suddenly I'm thinking it's a Sperical SA Key-set and now a 100% German Made one, you are a fvckin-sadist beyond belief.

Which ever way this falls into either countries molds, I shall be buying three of everything (excluding Ergodox).
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: DanielT on Sat, 18 April 2015, 06:18:05
^^ I think he meant PMK not GMK, sorry Elrick:(
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 06:37:12
yes, sorry guys PMK... :)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Eszett on Sat, 18 April 2015, 07:08:01
MD = www.massdrop.com
PMK = www.pimpmykeyboard.com
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 07:27:07
Colors

(http://i.imgur.com/0Q7RHXW.jpg)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Sat, 18 April 2015, 09:55:47
I'm really liking the new ErgoDox kit. It's visually interesting, and having only one set is better for price reasons.

There are a few punctuation keys on the side in the ErgoDox kit that seem a bit odd. Is it just that since they need to be produced for the base set, they're cheap enough that it doesn't matter?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: abjr on Sat, 18 April 2015, 10:01:23
What would you do for the last column of a 65%? (brownfox kit perhaps?)

I guess you could do ins/del, pgup/pgdn, or home/end for r1 and r2. There is a Fn key in the pro mods for r4, but what to do for r3 ... the r3 del from the pro mods I guess? Although if you used something else on r1 that throws it all off.

Edit: I'm blind.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 10:18:35
What would you do for the last column of a 65%? (brownfox kit perhaps?)

I guess you could do ins/del, pgup/pgdn, or home/end for r1 and r2. There is a Fn key in the pro mods for r4, but what to do for r3 ... the r3 del from the pro mods I guess? Although if you used something else on r1 that throws it all off.

It's impossible to foresee all scenarios. Technically you'd need both pgup/pgdn and home/end in R3 and R4... or maybe I could just add a jolly key in R3
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rickyhobby on Sat, 18 April 2015, 12:23:32
I'm really liking the new ErgoDox kit. It's visually interesting, and having only one set is better for price reasons.

There are a few punctuation keys on the side in the ErgoDox kit that seem a bit odd. Is it just that since they need to be produced for the base set, they're cheap enough that it doesn't matter?

The 1.5 TAB and PIPE definitely seem out of place as having legends.  I'd say make those two legendless as all of the other non-alpha are legendless.  But keep the 1.5 "C=" commodore logo one!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 18 April 2015, 12:55:05
There are a few punctuation keys on the side in the ErgoDox kit that seem a bit odd. Is it just that since they need to be produced for the base set, they're cheap enough that it doesn't matter?

sorry I missed your question.

they are part of the standard alpha kit, so they would be pretty inexpensive, same as tab and pipe. I wouldn't really know where to put them since ergodox is very personal, but it doesn't hurt having them I guess.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 19 April 2015, 03:05:50
- added dvorak to colemak kit
- added stepped ctrl
- moved "super" to base kit
- removed OS kit
- merged UK with ISO kit

PLEASE review the Ergodox and the colemak+dvorak kits! I know nothing about them I need your feedback! You have 24h.

(http://i.imgur.com/hcT1eYX.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jackiecanev2 on Sun, 19 April 2015, 08:13:51
Are the mods and base kit still going to be sold together, or is that tbd based on distribution?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Eszett on Sun, 19 April 2015, 08:16:22
@Matt3o Which font are you using?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 19 April 2015, 08:49:43
when switching from R3 to R4 in the bottom row I introduced some errors here and there. I hope everything's fine now, but please help reviewing it!

(http://i.imgur.com/hP3iBbw.png)

@Matt3o Which font are you using?

standard SP (WYSE).

Are the mods and base kit still going to be sold together, or is that tbd based on distribution?

they will be very likely sold together, unless we go through PMK
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Eszett on Sun, 19 April 2015, 09:19:31
Quote
standard SP (WYSE).

Thanks, Matt3o. Another issue. In standard US-layout there is Y(row2) and Z(row4), and in german layout both keys change place: Y(row4) and Z(row2). Now I see in the DE-NO-SE Kit no Z(row2). Did you forget it, or am I blind? :-)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 19 April 2015, 09:25:51
Quote
standard SP (WYSE).

Thanks, Matt3o. Another issue. In standard US-layout there is Y(row2) and Z(row4), and in german layout both keys change place: Y(row4) and Z(row2). Now I see in the DE-NO-SE Kit no Z(row2). Did you forget it, or am I blind? :-)

if you flip Z row-2, you get Z row-4! It's like magic :D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Eszett on Sun, 19 April 2015, 09:32:34
Oh, alright then.*facepalm I am so stupid* ;D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Sun, 19 April 2015, 12:12:18
they are part of the standard alpha kit, so they would be pretty inexpensive, same as tab and pipe. I wouldn't really know where to put them since ergodox is very personal, but it doesn't hurt having them I guess.

Makes sense if it's cheap enough. I suppose it may make someone's day.

PLEASE review the Ergodox and the colemak+dvorak kits! I know nothing about them I need your feedback! You have 24h.

Colemak kit still checks out. I'm not a Dvorak typist, but I don't see anything wrong after a quick search.

I'd be tempted to do the following to the bottom row and thumb clusters for the ErgoDox:
[attach=1]

I'm not sure if everyone would like my thumb cluster idea, but I really do think most ErgoDox users would like the R4 bottom row.

Edit: "its" to "it's"
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 19 April 2015, 12:26:29
I like your ergodox layout a lot. The R4 in the bottom row makes perfect sense. Not sure about the two R1 on top of the thumb clusters though. R1 is pretty tall.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Sun, 19 April 2015, 12:42:49
I like your ergodox layout a lot. The R4 in the bottom row makes perfect sense. Not sure about the two R1 on top of the thumb clusters though. R1 is pretty tall.

I've always had a hard time pressing the top two, so the taller the better in my experience. Really though, I can just get a few blank kits to add the R1s, so it's probably safer to go with something less pronounced for the actual kit.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sun, 19 April 2015, 12:51:07
unfortunately I have no experience with ergodox, so I stand to what ergodox people suggest.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Loligagger on Sun, 19 April 2015, 16:50:54
That profile layout looks good to me. Although separate blanks would also work.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 20 April 2015, 02:53:08
I really can't come up with a sane layout for ergodox.

Maybe something like this

(http://i.imgur.com/Q0ZfJvn.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Mon, 20 April 2015, 03:03:06
Colors

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0Q7RHXW.jpg)


I still think even TBN is too light to match the original colour and TAA is the closest (could just be my eyes, though). Comparing existing DSA Retro pictures, none of them look dark enough, but I guess most people will be expecting this in TBN like the DSA sets. Sorry if it's just me, but please add your voice if you think so, too.

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9d/Commodore64.jpg/1920px-Commodore64.jpg)

(http://41.media.tumblr.com/GIzjsFZFnj2bhmxjaaqYiClio1_500.jpg)

(http://paulrickards.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/arduino64kb1-840x575.jpg)

(http://www.vintage-computer.com/images/c64console.jpg)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 20 April 2015, 03:08:56
TBN is actually pretty dark, in my picture is against black so it pops up. If you put it on beige it looks pretty much like the first of your pictures.

I'll take a pic of TBN and TAA together
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Mon, 20 April 2015, 03:46:11
TBN is actually pretty dark, in my picture is against black so it pops up. If you put it on beige it looks pretty much like the first of your pictures.

I'll take a pic of TBN and TAA together

Okay, great :) Would be awesome to see them against a beige background, but just side by side is also good. The mockups also look quite light, with the burgundy almost the same shade as the brown, whereas "in the plastic" it looks like there's more difference.

I don't mean to stir up negativity / controversy, I'm just a stickler for colour accuracy.... sorry.

For sure won't affect whether I buy the set or not, either, Retro SA is going to be legendary!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 20 April 2015, 03:48:50
Took the picture on neutral gray

(http://i.imgur.com/N3iQqYY.jpg)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 20 April 2015, 05:10:30
I don't mean to stir up negativity / controversy, I'm just a stickler for colour accuracy.... sorry.

For sure won't affect whether I buy the set or not, either, Retro SA is going to be legendary!

Don't worry Matt3o is a designer hence colour accuracy is his number one goal when launching any Colour-way here on Geekhack  8) .

Because it's an SA profile, this will become LEGENDARY beyond anyone's expectations  :thumb: .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 20 April 2015, 05:14:30
I agree with Oobly that TBN is a pinch too light, but TAA is probably too dark. Also, looking at the actual keycaps they look slightly darker than the color chip. So my fear is that TAA would end up basically black.

The ideal would be a midway between the two, which we don't have (unless we pay for it)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Mon, 20 April 2015, 05:17:36
I agree with Oobly that TBN is a pinch too light, but TAA is probably too dark. Also, looking at the actual keycaps they look slightly darker than the color chip. So my fear is that TAA would end up basically black.

The ideal would be a midway between the two, which we don't have (unless we pay for it)

Yeah I think a mix of the two would look a lot better. But I'm happy with TBN, seeing how much I'm already going to be spending on all of these kits  ;D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Mon, 20 April 2015, 07:36:21
I agree with Oobly that TBN is a pinch too light, but TAA is probably too dark. Also, looking at the actual keycaps they look slightly darker than the color chip. So my fear is that TAA would end up basically black.

The ideal would be a midway between the two, which we don't have (unless we pay for it)

Thanks for the pic!

I 100% agree with you. It should be kinda in between the two, but since there isn't a colour between I guess TBN is best since TAA is very dark. WCK and TAA together really does something to me, though.. love that combination.

Full contour SA profile Retro.... sigh... Best set ever! Thank you so much for running this, Matt3o!

I'm seeing this in my head with semi-matte SA profile and smiling from ear to ear:
(http://i.imgur.com/o52irhh.jpg)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 20 April 2015, 07:42:26
I agree TAA+WCK is kinda horny :)

we may run a GB for that another time  ;D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 20 April 2015, 07:47:03
I'm curious to know why there are two whites used for legends... I like the idea of a not-so-titanium white on the brown, but won't the brighter white on the green/grey/yellow look a bit inconsistent?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 20 April 2015, 08:01:28
WCK looks brighter on dark colors. while lighter colors (yellow, gray and red) need a higher contrast legend (hence the pure white).

My educated guess is that they should look very close. It's a bit of an hazard, I admit. If it works it works very well, if it doesn't, it shouldn't be terribly annoying anyway.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Mon, 20 April 2015, 08:29:04
The small differences in the whites are lost in the caps' base colors.  The fonts aren't bold enough to see the white doubleshots like they appear in their color chips.  Any perception of shade matching or differential on the fonts will appear to be an effect caused by the base color.  In fact, even if they were exactly the same color from the same batch, the different base colors might appear to shift the font colors slightly, depending on the light.  It's an optical illusion.  I had a similar discussion with Muirium @ DT concerning 7-bit's Round 5a, and that was our conclusion at least.

Matt3o is on the right track here.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 20 April 2015, 08:41:36
Matt3o is on the right track here.

I never doubted that! Just curious to know how the sausage is made.  :D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: 00zeRO on Mon, 20 April 2015, 10:54:31
So, I poke my head out for a little while, and look at what I miss...great job Matt3o! I am definitely looking forward to this set, fo reels! These would be awesome on my Phantom 1.

:))
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rickyhobby on Mon, 20 April 2015, 16:34:43
I really love the theme of this set, thanks for organizing this!  For me, (D)SA Retro is all about C64 throwback.  While I was not around for the original DSA Retro, I was always bummed and confused that it had burgandy instead of grey (or yellow).  As a set, on it's own, it looks great, but is not reminiscent of the C64 to me.  Thanks for providing all of the grey options this time!  I'm sure many others will prefer the grey.

I would REALLY like to get an sculpted SA ergodox kit, however I find it to be too busy color-wise, and lacking color options.  In my opinion, Retro feels like it should be more simple, less flashy.  Is there any chance on making the ergodox kit more retro or perhaps with more options?

Here is what I would set mine up as if the options existed - Pure C64 Throwback:
(http://i.imgur.com/lQgH1om.png)

I realize that ergodox is touchy in that too many options price it too high, then it doesn't sell, and too few options make it less desirable and it doesn't sell...

Thanks again,
Rick
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rickyhobby on Mon, 20 April 2015, 16:41:54
How about a TBN R2 1.5u "RESTORE" (to put in place of PIPE optionally)?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Mon, 20 April 2015, 21:07:10
I really can't come up with a sane layout for ergodox.

Maybe something like this

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Q0ZfJvn.png)


With an ErgoDox kit, you really have two options for the mod keys: single row with legends, or contoured blanks. Trying anything else will just be too limiting for a keyboard that has customizability at its core (and will probably drive you crazy).

Regarding the profile, going with your original idea, but with a R4 bottom is probably the safest route. I'll be getting a bunch of blanks with my kit, and can report back on doing the top thumb keys as R1 for future group buys. I believe that it will be more comfortable, but I'm a sample size of one, and I'd hate to influence the profile in a potentially controversial way on my preferences alone.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Loligagger on Tue, 21 April 2015, 15:16:37
Blank ergo mods with R4 bottom row is probably the safest route. I'd also make the tab/pipe keys burgundy (even if they're blank). Maybe make a separate kit with legends like the granite buy?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 21 April 2015, 16:30:44
I'm waiting for the quotation from SP...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: janvkn on Wed, 22 April 2015, 08:06:03
I agree with Oobly that TBN is a pinch too light, but TAA is probably too dark. Also, looking at the actual keycaps they look slightly darker than the color chip. So my fear is that TAA would end up basically black.

IIRC the Filco Doubleshot SA set is also in TAA color. It looks as good as black under most lighting, the brown only really comes out in direct sunlight.

Here are some shots of them on my Poker II: http://imgur.com/a/G8y8X

(http://i.imgur.com/vdfg56H.jpg)

In direct sunlight it looks like this
(http://i.imgur.com/BhFUC3Y.jpg)

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 22 April 2015, 08:25:47
thanks for sharing! As I suspected it's really too dark.

PS: can I use your pictures for keypuller.com?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: janvkn on Wed, 22 April 2015, 08:27:40
PS: can I use your pictures for keypuller.com?

Absolutely, knock yourself out ;)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Thu, 23 April 2015, 01:04:50
What ErgoDox set did we end up going with?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 23 April 2015, 01:39:41
still waiting for the quote..........

the ergodox is blank. If ergodox guys are interested I might be willing to run an ergodox-only GB will all the legends.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Loligagger on Thu, 23 April 2015, 02:37:13
I'd be interested, at least.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Thu, 23 April 2015, 03:20:50
I agree with Oobly that TBN is a pinch too light, but TAA is probably too dark. Also, looking at the actual keycaps they look slightly darker than the color chip. So my fear is that TAA would end up basically black.

IIRC the Filco Doubleshot SA set is also in TAA color. It looks as good as black under most lighting, the brown only really comes out in direct sunlight.

Here are some shots of them on my Poker II: http://imgur.com/a/G8y8X

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/vdfg56H.jpg)


In direct sunlight it looks like this
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/BhFUC3Y.jpg)


Thanks for the pics! It's great to see this colour combination under different lighting conditions. I agree that TAA is too dark for this set, but I really do love that combo.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 23 April 2015, 03:49:00
Thanks for the pics! It's great to see this colour combination under different lighting conditions. I agree that TAA is too dark for this set, but I really do love that combo.

I think TAA is fine because it reminds me of Dark Chocolate, which I personally love especially when it comes out of Ecuador ........mmmmmm chocolate.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 24 April 2015, 11:11:43
Would anyone like to see a Nuka Cola keycap in this color scheme? Just wondering...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: techmattr on Fri, 24 April 2015, 11:42:50
Would anyone like to see a Nuka Cola keycap in this color scheme? Just wondering...

What kind of question is that? Of course we would  :p
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Zebadule on Fri, 24 April 2015, 12:31:18
still waiting for the quote..........

the ergodox is blank. If ergodox guys are interested I might be willing to run an ergodox-only GB will all the legends.

I'd be in for a couple.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Archangel on Fri, 24 April 2015, 16:15:15
still waiting for the quote..........

the ergodox is blank. If ergodox guys are interested I might be willing to run an ergodox-only GB will all the legends.

I'd also be interested, but if it's not concurrent I'd be afraid to miss out on this one.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: mashby on Fri, 24 April 2015, 16:24:05
omg-wallet-hack-just-wont-stop.gif

Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: wakko on Sat, 25 April 2015, 00:41:28
Starting to see why everyone complains about their wallets. In.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 25 April 2015, 02:09:37
Melissa failed to provide a quote this week. I hope to get it early next.

Prepare your wallet you could start really soon!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Sat, 25 April 2015, 03:05:06
Prepare your wallet you could start really soon!

She is ready for the SA Retro onslaught.  This will be a Group Buy gangbang like no other.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: TD22057 on Sun, 26 April 2015, 20:52:54
Matt3o,
Is the ergo kit missing the ~/` key?  It looks like it has the other "missing" 5 keys that are in a normal board but not that one.

Also - I realize you're already getting quotes... but: is anyone else interested in 1.25 or 1.5 mods like the original DSA Retro kits 8 and 9 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40175.0)?  My custom boards use 1.5 keys for everything and Kit 9 (1.5 mods) would be very helpful...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Mon, 27 April 2015, 04:21:03
Matt3o,
Is the ergo kit missing the ~/` key?  It looks like it has the other "missing" 5 keys that are in a normal board but not that one.

Ergodox kit will contain just blanks modifiers. You still need the base kit.

Also - I realize you're already getting quotes... but: is anyone else interested in 1.25 or 1.5 mods like the original DSA Retro kits 8 and 9 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40175.0)?  My custom boards use 1.5 keys for everything and Kit 9 (1.5 mods) would be very helpful...

Unfortunately that wouldn't be possible this time



Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: 00zeRO on Mon, 27 April 2015, 11:50:46
Prepare your wallet you could start really soon!

She is ready for the SA Retro onslaught.  This will be a Group Buy gangbang like no other.

How colorful...as always Sir Elrick

 :blank:
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 27 April 2015, 15:17:28
Prepare your wallet you could start really soon!

She is ready for the SA Retro onslaught.  This will be a Group Buy gangbang like no other.

How colorful...as always Sir Elrick

 :blank:

I'll see the "GB" abbreviation in a different light now :))
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Mon, 27 April 2015, 15:24:20
Prepare your wallet you could start really soon!

She is ready for the SA Retro onslaught.  This will be a Group Buy gangbang like no other.

How colorful...as always Sir Elrick

 :blank:

I'll see the "GB" abbreviation in a different light now :))
Indeed.

Leave it to Elrick. 
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: daerid on Mon, 27 April 2015, 16:36:59
I'm officially expressing my intent to purchase the LIVING SH*T OUT OF THIS SET.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Mon, 27 April 2015, 22:37:31
I'm officially expressing my intent to purchase the LIVING SH*T OUT OF THIS SET.

Could not put it any more eloquently, than daerid  ;) .

Totally agree with his motto because this key-set will get seriously BANGED out of Existence, here on Geekhack  8) .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 28 April 2015, 02:06:37
GOT PRICING!

Have to run numbers with BunnyLake and then to the group buy!

The only problem I see is that the base set is split into two color ways so we won't reach the highest tiers. Anyway I'm pretty sure a base kit should go way under $100.

Later!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 28 April 2015, 02:32:55
GOT PRICING!

Have to run numbers with BunnyLake and then to the group buy!

The only problem I see is that the base set is split into two color ways so we won't reach the highest tiers. Anyway I'm pretty sure a base kit should go way under $100.

Later!

No probs with the pricing because she'll be popular here like any hooker on weekends  8) .
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: bubbedi on Tue, 28 April 2015, 03:54:58
GOT PRICING!

Have to run numbers with BunnyLake and then to the group buy!

The only problem I see is that the base set is split into two color ways so we won't reach the highest tiers. Anyway I'm pretty sure a base kit should go way under $100.

Later!

I'm so excited for the launch of this baby!

The SA profile was so close for me to try, with the 1976-set, but I was denied due to the lack of colemak kits.
I was sort of happy tho, as time passed, because what my heart truly desires is a fully sculpted set.

Thanks Matt3o for adding the colemak/dvorak-kit. I will make it tip on my own if I have to, the crave is real.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 28 April 2015, 11:09:59
Great news guys! We will have an option for color matched PBT Spacebars!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: daerid on Tue, 28 April 2015, 12:52:32
awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww yissssss
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Tue, 28 April 2015, 13:09:47
Great news guys! We will have an option for color matched PBT Spacebars!

SA profile PBT spacebars?

(http://i.imgur.com/krSwLPU.gif)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 28 April 2015, 19:10:56
Great news guys! We will have an option for color matched PBT Spacebars!

SA profile PBT spacebars?

Geez, just spewed orange juice out of my nose when I  read this......

Didn't know SP could ever make full PBT Spacebar keys, in SA Profile or is Melissa just joking with you here?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Tue, 28 April 2015, 19:13:55
I can almost believe myself telling myself this is the last set I will need to buy...almost.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: jackiecanev2 on Tue, 28 April 2015, 19:53:47

I can almost believe myself telling myself this is the last set I will need to buy...almost.

Until Penumbra opens up in a week or two...

And speaking of which, is this going to run at the same time (potentially) as Penumbra?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 29 April 2015, 02:08:58
okay. Melissa came back to me. there are too many issues with the PBT spacebar. So I'll drop it. Sorry guys.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Wed, 29 April 2015, 03:44:11
okay. Melissa came back to me. there are too many issues with the PBT spacebar. So I'll drop it. Sorry guys.

Knew it  :'( :'( :'( :'( , always get cut down when something impossible proves to be it.  Shall now crawl into a Quart of Beer and drown my sorrow of disbelief and shame for imaging that we could actually own any PBT SA Profiled Spacers.

Retro has so played with my emotions and it hasn't even started yet, can you imagine what will happen when it's finally launched.........
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: FuriousGeorge on Wed, 29 April 2015, 17:39:36
Is the space bar in the small space kit 4 units or 4.5 units? Would it be possible to get a 4.5 unit space for boards like the tex beetle and I think the pure pro? I seem to remember SP doing a 4.5 sa space, but I could be mistaken.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 30 April 2015, 02:54:40
If they have it, I'll make it available.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: 00zeRO on Thu, 30 April 2015, 11:41:13
okay. Melissa came back to me. there are too many issues with the PBT spacebar. So I'll drop it. Sorry guys.

I would say that I am surprised...but then I remember we are dealing with SP...

doh...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: SL89 on Thu, 30 April 2015, 11:46:47
I'm not sure if this has been asked before or not, but is this going through 7bit, MD or PMK?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: 00zeRO on Thu, 30 April 2015, 11:48:46
I'm not sure if this has been asked before or not, but is this going through 7bit, MD or PMK?

Most definitely not PMK...while there may be a novelty companion set through PMK
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Thu, 30 April 2015, 12:18:32
I'm not sure if this has been asked before or not, but is this going through 7bit, MD or PMK?

I don't think Matt3o has explained his plan in detail, but it sounds like he may be trying to arrange something with CtrlAlt to have them do order fulfillment.  SP will mold the caps, of course, but I think he's trying to avoid running it through PMK.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 30 April 2015, 17:00:58
This is going through CTRLALT store!

It should start really soon!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: awhitedev on Thu, 30 April 2015, 17:26:53
Are these going to have the same large legends on them like the hack'd set has? I can't really tell from the mockup.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Thu, 30 April 2015, 17:29:23
F5 F5 F5 F5!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 30 April 2015, 21:25:08
This is going through CTRLALT store!

It should start really soon!

Group buy quality and reliability just jumped 1000%!

No offence to anyone else who might have been thinking of doing this one the old-fashioned way :p
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 30 April 2015, 22:43:23
This is going through CTRLALT store!

It should start really soon!

Group buy quality and reliability just jumped 1000%!

No offence to anyone else who might have been thinking of doing this one the old-fashioned way :p

Couldn't care less, as long as it runs.......SOON  :thumb: .

We desperately need the Retro here on Geekhack because it represents the absolute BEST of Matt3o's work thus far.  Privileged to have his consent in doing it all in SA Profile, which shall be the MOST lusted after key-set released for 2015.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: awhitedev on Fri, 01 May 2015, 06:12:22
Also - sorry if this was asked before.. but is this set going to be the same color plastic as DSA Retro?

http://keypuller.com/dsa-retro/

If you couldn't already tell I'm very interested in this set... when I first registered here on GH I saw the DSA retro but was too late to make an order. Beautiful color scheme!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 01 May 2015, 09:26:14
yes the color scheme is the same, except the white is a little more creamy now.

Coming really soon!

(http://i.imgur.com/R4xFg3W.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: mashby on Fri, 01 May 2015, 09:31:56
Damn it Matt3o! Stop hitting me in the feels!!!!!

(http://i.imgur.com/qJu3t.gif)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 01 May 2015, 11:33:21
I hear rumors of a bonus kit on PMK...

I would love to see Vault 13, Vault 101, and Nuka Cola legends...

And, if anyone dares to attempt it, I would love to see this as a doubleshot for this set:

(http://cdn3.volusion.com/jvzfm.pzuwx/v/vspfiles/photos/GC158-2.jpg)

Firefly/Serenity/Browncoats all the way baby!

 :thumb:
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 01 May 2015, 11:43:01
yes, if there's enough interest we might run a bonus pack on PMK

if you have suggestions just throw them here!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Fri, 01 May 2015, 13:50:27
How about some with the PETSCII graphics symbols on them?

(http://i.imgur.com/Hojsuf5.png)

Alternate core alphas would be cool but I'm not sure about non-centred text placement being possible, or even a small selection with symbols semi-suitable for pgup,dn,home,end and such.

something like:
(http://i.imgur.com/GUdjDZK.png)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Fri, 01 May 2015, 14:02:26
Group buy quality and reliability just jumped 1000%!

SP is still going to be handling production, right? So having another middleman does what? I know it probably saves Matt3o labor, but a middleman taking a percentage probably also increases the bottom line for us purchasers, unless CtrlAlt somehow can negotiate a better rate, which sounds unlikely to me.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Fri, 01 May 2015, 14:38:27
Group buy quality and reliability just jumped 1000%!

SP is still going to be handling production, right? So having another middleman does what? I know it probably saves Matt3o labor, but a middleman taking a percentage probably also increases the bottom line for us purchasers, unless CtrlAlt somehow can negotiate a better rate, which sounds unlikely to me.

I've never seen any indication of MOQ on CtrlAlt whereas I'm hesitant to use PMK lest the ISO or a speciality kit I intend to use fails to tip.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: TD22057 on Fri, 01 May 2015, 14:40:30
I'm guessing saving labor is the point. I can't imagine sorting,  boxing,  and shipping all those kits.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: awhitedev on Fri, 01 May 2015, 14:46:52
I hear rumors of a bonus kit on PMK...

I would love to see Vault 13, Vault 101, and Nuka Cola legends...

And, if anyone dares to attempt it, I would love to see this as a doubleshot for this set:

Show Image
(http://cdn3.volusion.com/jvzfm.pzuwx/v/vspfiles/photos/GC158-2.jpg)


Firefly/Serenity/Browncoats all the way baby!

 :thumb:

I second this! Particularly those firefly caps!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: shrubkeys on Fri, 01 May 2015, 16:42:05
Don't know if the "Apple Kit" is still being called the "Apple ][ Kit", but FWIW there was no Command or Option back on the Apple II's. Command was "Open Apple" and Option "Closed Apple" - with icons of an apple outline and an apple infill, respectively. Whether they belong in the in the Apple (Mac) kit or a novelty kit is beyond my paygrade, but they're certainly in-theme...

http://www.applefritter.com/files/IMG_5573.jpg (http://www.applefritter.com/files/IMG_5573.jpg)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Fri, 01 May 2015, 17:09:19
Don't know if the "Apple Kit" is still being called the "Apple ][ Kit", but FWIW there was no Command or Option back on the Apple II's. Command was "Open Apple" and Option "Closed Apple" - with icons of an apple outline and an apple infill, respectively. Whether they belong in the in the Apple (Mac) kit or a novelty kit is beyond my paygrade, but they're certainly in-theme...

http://www.applefritter.com/files/IMG_5573.jpg (http://www.applefritter.com/files/IMG_5573.jpg)

Indeed it is called "Apple kit", it is meant for modern keyboards.

Group buy quality and reliability just jumped 1000%!

SP is still going to be handling production, right? So having another middleman does what? I know it probably saves Matt3o labor, but a middleman taking a percentage probably also increases the bottom line for us purchasers, unless CtrlAlt somehow can negotiate a better rate, which sounds unlikely to me.

1) It is not going to cost you more. 2) you'll get a better service

How about some with the PETSCII graphics symbols on them?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Hojsuf5.png)


Alternate core alphas would be cool but I'm not sure about non-centred text placement being possible, or even a small selection with symbols semi-suitable for pgup,dn,home,end and such.

something like:
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GUdjDZK.png)


Those are all new legends (pretty expensive). What about some side printed keys instead?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Fri, 01 May 2015, 17:14:20
Don't know if the "Apple Kit" is still being called the "Apple ][ Kit", but FWIW there was no Command or Option back on the Apple II's. Command was "Open Apple" and Option "Closed Apple" - with icons of an apple outline and an apple infill, respectively. Whether they belong in the in the Apple (Mac) kit or a novelty kit is beyond my paygrade, but they're certainly in-theme...

http://www.applefritter.com/files/IMG_5573.jpg (http://www.applefritter.com/files/IMG_5573.jpg)

Indeed it is called "Apple kit", it is meant for modern keyboards.

Group buy quality and reliability just jumped 1000%!

SP is still going to be handling production, right? So having another middleman does what? I know it probably saves Matt3o labor, but a middleman taking a percentage probably also increases the bottom line for us purchasers, unless CtrlAlt somehow can negotiate a better rate, which sounds unlikely to me.

1) It is not going to cost you more. 2) you'll get a better service

How about some with the PETSCII graphics symbols on them?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Hojsuf5.png)


Alternate core alphas would be cool but I'm not sure about non-centred text placement being possible, or even a small selection with symbols semi-suitable for pgup,dn,home,end and such.

something like:
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/GUdjDZK.png)


Those are all new legends (pretty expensive). What about some side printed keys instead?

That would be so sexy I'd pass out.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Fri, 01 May 2015, 18:13:05
Side printed PETSCII would be flipping incredible.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: shrubkeys on Fri, 01 May 2015, 19:07:55
Indeed it is called "Apple kit", it is meant for modern keyboards.

I take it back - PETSCII might be cooler than open-apple. Though less iconic. And for a given definition of the word "cool."

Unrelatedly, any love for those of us with off-centered stems that need stepped caps (like in DSA Retro)?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Fri, 01 May 2015, 19:22:38
yes the color scheme is the same, except the white is a little more creamy now.

Coming really soon!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/R4xFg3W.png)



After seeing this what can be said except this is going to be the ABSOLUTE BEST colour-way and authentic rendition of an 'old-style' key-set EVER.

Every time I come here and see this key-set it builds up the tension and enthusiasm for this latest colour-way, in fact it creates excitement amongst the oldies here who still remember the great Amiga PC, all those years ago.

Have to now go release some of this excitement away from the monitor, and deliver a free pearl necklace on the Mrs, I blame you matt3o for making me do this, yet again.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: unoab on Fri, 01 May 2015, 19:43:25
Those are all new legends (pretty expensive). What about some side printed keys instead?

SA... with side printing... yes please!

Maybe as an option as some might find them busy, but I think they would look quite cool:
http://deskthority.net/photos-f62/well-what-do-you-lot-think-t8039.html (http://deskthority.net/photos-f62/well-what-do-you-lot-think-t8039.html)
(http://i1373.photobucket.com/albums/ag375/barnes36/P5170134_zpscb935fe5.jpg)
(http://i1373.photobucket.com/albums/ag375/barnes36/P5170133_zpsae698a2e.jpg)

(http://images.pcworld.com/reviews/graphics/139100-commodore64.jpg)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 02 May 2015, 01:32:21
I'll try to a ask a quote for the side printed legends. I don't know if we should go full alpha or just some keys here and there (number row maybe?).
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Sat, 02 May 2015, 11:23:10
Side printed PETSCII would be flipping incredible.

I don't want this. I don't want a bunch of legends on my caps that mean nothing to me.

Apple Keys should have an open apple and a closed apple like the original Apple II.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Sat, 02 May 2015, 11:34:08
I'll try to a ask a quote for the side printed legends. I don't know if we should go full alpha or just some keys here and there (number row maybe?).

I'd be much more for an accurate full alpha bonus pack but could live with an *interesting* num or f row.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Sat, 02 May 2015, 11:51:36
Side printed PETSCII would be flipping incredible.

I don't want this. I don't want a bunch of legends on my caps that mean nothing to me.

Apple Keys should have an open apple and a closed apple like the original Apple II.

we are talking about a bonus pack, completely optional.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: atectatifern on Sun, 03 May 2015, 07:48:51
I would be all over a PETSCII side-printed set!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Oobly on Sun, 03 May 2015, 14:51:33
Side printed PETSCII would be flipping incredible.

I don't want this. I don't want a bunch of legends on my caps that mean nothing to me.

Apple Keys should have an open apple and a closed apple like the original Apple II.

we are talking about a bonus pack, completely optional.

Ah, gotcha. In that case, go for it!

Yes, SP can do side pad printing on SA caps, at least that's what I was told when I enquired about some cap options. Not sure about custom legends and any extra costs involved there, though.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Mon, 04 May 2015, 16:56:00
Yes, SP can do side pad printing on SA caps, at least that's what I was told when I enquired about some cap options. Not sure about custom legends and any extra costs involved there, though.

I don't ever recall seeing this done by SP outside of grab-bags have any other buys taken advantage of it?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: unoab on Mon, 04 May 2015, 17:22:29
Yes, SP can do side pad printing on SA caps, at least that's what I was told when I enquired about some cap options. Not sure about custom legends and any extra costs involved there, though.

I don't ever recall seeing this done by SP outside of grab-bags have any other buys taken advantage of it?

Commando 23 did on the return, print screen, and break keys
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=45655.0 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=45655.0)
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 04 May 2015, 17:42:20
Hey Matt3o!  I am back after 40 days in the wilderness.  This looks really nice!  Just today I put a Retro DSA set on my JD45.

(http://i.imgur.com/biM4BHc.jpg)
Non-SA Retro 'caps on samwisekoi's JD45 prototype.

I have not gone through all 10 pages of your post yet, but it seems like you are staying with TBN, RBC, and VAV, which I think is still a great color combo.  I'll catch up to find out for sure.

Since this is going through Ctrl|Alt, are blank kits possible? That would make things like the JD45 easier.

Please let me know if I can help in any way.

Best regards,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: HelixDan on Mon, 04 May 2015, 21:09:30
Long key in ergodox kit is otaku?   :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 05 May 2015, 01:42:34
Hey Matt3o!  I am back after 40 days in the wilderness.  This looks really nice!  Just today I put a Retro DSA set on my JD45.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/biM4BHc.jpg)

Non-SA Retro 'caps on samwisekoi's JD45 prototype.

I have not gone through all 10 pages of your post yet, but it seems like you are staying with TBN, RBC, and VAV, which I think is still a great color combo.  I'll catch up to find out for sure.

Since this is going through Ctrl|Alt, are blank kits possible? That would make things like the JD45 easier.

Please let me know if I can help in any way.

Hey samwisekoi, glad to finally see you here! I didn't want to bother you I knew you were busy.

The color combo is the same but this time I'm using WCK as white. Unfortunately we won't have blacks (apart from 1u) but we are toying with the idea of running a bonus pack on PMK.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 05 May 2015, 10:44:54
going live in few hours!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Tue, 05 May 2015, 10:54:56
going live in few hours!

Awesome.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: bubbedi on Tue, 05 May 2015, 13:05:19
Looking forward!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: awhitedev on Tue, 05 May 2015, 16:37:40
It's alive! https://ctrlalt.io/buys/sa-retro
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Tue, 05 May 2015, 16:38:49
Woo, yay and indeed houpla.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: bubbedi on Tue, 05 May 2015, 16:41:45
Order placed!
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: TLExile on Tue, 05 May 2015, 16:42:31
YES
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Tue, 05 May 2015, 17:05:13
hold on with that F5! :D
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Tue, 05 May 2015, 17:16:55
Now I have to figure out if it's worth $115 to get what I want...  :-[
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: FuriousGeorge on Tue, 05 May 2015, 17:21:26
And I just spent way more than I should have on the granite buy on MD. Why does this have to look so good?

Any chance of a 4.5 unit space bar getting added to either the small space bar set or separately?
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Supergeek on Tue, 05 May 2015, 17:32:33
Anyone getting the lime set that doesn't want the cursors?  :p
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: MAR82 on Tue, 05 May 2015, 17:39:49
Now I have to figure out if it's worth $115 to get what I want...  :-[

$115?
Lucky you, I'm at $193  :-[
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Baxter on Tue, 05 May 2015, 19:00:10
hold on with that F5! :D

You made this monster.

Now I have to figure out if it's worth $115 to get what I want...  :-[

$115?
Lucky you, I'm at $193  :-[

£? yeah that's about right.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Cafeine on Tue, 05 May 2015, 19:02:26
150 dollars and I don't even have MX keyboards. :x
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Elrick on Tue, 05 May 2015, 19:49:29
Now I have to figure out if it's worth $115 to get what I want...  :-[

$115?
Lucky you, I'm at $193  :-[

Lucky Devils because I'm stuck in the $566.00USD camp, the Mrs is NOW pestering me to knock back my key-sets love affair with Geekhack Central.

First time she's done it so I'm surprised with this new behaviour that's coming out of her, quite disturbing.........
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Data on Tue, 05 May 2015, 20:05:48
Now I have to figure out if it's worth $115 to get what I want...  :-[

$115?
Lucky you, I'm at $193  :-[

Lucky Devils because I'm stuck in the $566.00USD camp, the Mrs is NOW pestering me to knock back my key-sets love affair with Geekhack Central.

First time she's done it so I'm surprised with this new behaviour that's coming out of her, quite disturbing.........

Jesus, dude...
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: mashby on Wed, 06 May 2015, 13:40:15
What sizes are the returns in for the Lime set? They seem rather small.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 06 May 2015, 14:42:39
What sizes are the returns in for the Lime set? They seem rather small.

1.5 and 1.75. the big one is in the base kit
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: mashby on Wed, 06 May 2015, 14:53:12
What sizes are the returns in for the Lime set? They seem rather small.

1.5 and 1.75. the big one is in the base kit

Thanks Matt3o. My (lack of) attention to detail astounds even me.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 06 May 2015, 17:00:01
no worries, let's keep the conversation rolling on https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=71636
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Slavfot on Wed, 27 May 2015, 03:17:52
Why is there no Brown or Burgundy ISO-Enter? That's the only thing making me hesitate to make an order.
Title: Re: it is coming... SA RETRO!
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 27 May 2015, 03:58:26
because ISO enters are expensive and there's not enough interest in ISO kits.