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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: beamingrobot on Fri, 26 January 2018, 23:53:29

Title: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Fri, 26 January 2018, 23:53:29
Hi all,

With the KIRA60 buy in the final stages (shipping soon!) here's something coming up from thesiscamper x monokei

GB should begin next week (week of 26th Feb)

Photos:

(https://i.imgur.com/jAkmi9q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WNaxQbZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/k3vQXeO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MmCTkEe.jpg)

Special thanks to keikun17 for the photos.

Some questions:

1. Weight:

Stars + sun or KIRA?

2. Colours:

Excluding black/silver, these two colours will be offered

Poll: https://goo.gl/forms/UVGI8T4xmucFylHj1

3. Shopify payments:

We are considering offering the option of paying via Shopify (CC, DC) which will result in no PayPal fees for you, but you still receive the same buyer protection through Shopify instead of PayPal. Possibility of bank transfer for local buyers as well. Enables us to pay the factory directly without losing money to PP or have it frozen.

4. Small run:

Raffle, possibly 25-30 units

Thoughts/comments :)

IC form! (https://goo.gl/forms/CCaiLukERIq2Yf7t2)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: wixxzblu on Fri, 26 January 2018, 23:55:29
interested  :thumb:

Edit: Stars n Sun
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Hazzula on Fri, 26 January 2018, 23:56:30
Stars + sun please!

Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Puddsy on Sat, 27 January 2018, 00:06:01
i really like the stars/sun design
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: futurecrime on Sat, 27 January 2018, 00:13:19
Yep. Stars n sun is lurvely.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Sat, 27 January 2018, 00:18:51
By the way, thesis reminded me that this is the same board featured in the solarized dark buy:

(https://i.imgur.com/JRpuN8c.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: OracleKev on Sat, 27 January 2018, 01:36:05
Like geometric KIRA design  :thumb:

Will there be engraving on top?  Personally not a fan.
Sample seems to have two indicator holes.  Should there be three?
On top row layout, prefer slight space between clusters (Esc, F1-4, F5-8, F9-12, Extra), which IMO make the top row more usable

Add:
Want 1.5, 1.5, 7, 1.5, 1.5 support on the bottom row, also split NUM+
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 27 January 2018, 03:26:02
Like geometric KIRA design  :thumb:

Will there be engraving on top?  Personally not a fan.
Sample seems to have two indicator holes.  Should there be three?
On top row layout, prefer slight space between clusters (Esc, F1-4, F5-8, F9-12, Extra), which IMO make the top row more usable

Add:
Want 1.5, 1.5, 7, 1.5, 1.5 support on the bottom row, also split NUM+

Only the logo engraving on the upper left corner, the others are personalized engravings for those who got a prototype. I don't use scroll lock, I don't know anyone who uses it, so I did not include it. 7u bottom is supported, I already asked for split backspace and numpad + from the PCB designer. No spacers between function keys.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Phrillis on Sat, 27 January 2018, 03:40:40
I remember seeing this when Thesiscamper first uploaded a prototype on his Instagram account except it was silver and had what looked like an acrylic diffuser between the top and bottom parts of the case.

Will the final product have that same feature?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 27 January 2018, 03:51:27
I remember seeing this when Thesiscamper first uploaded a prototype on his Instagram account except it was silver and had what looked like an acrylic diffuser between the top and bottom parts of the case.

Will the final product have that same feature?

Yes, the inserts between the top and bottom can be metal or acrylic.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: OracleKev on Sat, 27 January 2018, 04:31:11
Like geometric KIRA design  :thumb:

Will there be engraving on top?  Personally not a fan.
Sample seems to have two indicator holes.  Should there be three?
On top row layout, prefer slight space between clusters (Esc, F1-4, F5-8, F9-12, Extra), which IMO make the top row more usable

Add:
Want 1.5, 1.5, 7, 1.5, 1.5 support on the bottom row, also split NUM+

Only the logo engraving on the upper left corner, the others are personalized engravings for those who got a prototype. I don't use scroll lock, I don't know anyone who uses it, so I did not include it. 7u bottom is supported, I already asked for split backspace and numpad + from the PCB designer. No spacers between function keys.

Mostly excellent.  No space between function keys - not the end of the world.

Oh, strongly prefer Stars + Sun
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: KaosJ on Sat, 27 January 2018, 04:50:57
Not entering this because of the brass weight and engraves on top. 

But i really like the layout (no spacers in the f-row and between the numbers) and i also like the design, there will be any other run of this without that weird brass shape on bottom?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: oatmicro on Sat, 27 January 2018, 05:10:04
I thought it's gonna be a TKL next  :'(
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ihalatch on Sat, 27 January 2018, 05:20:11
I'm very interested.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: foxlive on Sat, 27 January 2018, 06:31:18
Super interested ! Just bought on massdrop some gmk nautilus yesterday and now I need a board for it, could be it in dark blue ! :D
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Murrellz on Sat, 27 January 2018, 07:55:19
Personally prefer the new KIRA weight design but hey that might just be me. Love the layout! Definitely interested but price will be a big part of my participation. With a low order number, might be out of my price range.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 27 January 2018, 09:42:55
I thought it's gonna be a TKL next  :'(

A prototype hasn't been made yet, and with CNY nearing it will be a bit of time before I get one.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: foxlive on Sat, 27 January 2018, 10:35:10
Personally prefer the new KIRA weight design but hey that might just be me. Love the layout! Definitely interested but price will be a big part of my participation. With a low order number, might be out of my price range.

Where can we see it ? XD.. since it is not on first post, only the star weight  :))
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Murrellz on Sat, 27 January 2018, 10:50:40
Personally prefer the new KIRA weight design but hey that might just be me. Love the layout! Definitely interested but price will be a big part of my participation. With a low order number, might be out of my price range.

Where can we see it ? XD.. since it is not on first post, only the star weight  :))

Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: foxlive on Sat, 27 January 2018, 11:18:23
Personally prefer the new KIRA weight design but hey that might just be me. Love the layout! Definitely interested but price will be a big part of my participation. With a low order number, might be out of my price range.

Where can we see it ? XD.. since it is not on first post, only the star weight  :))

Thanks :D !

And I would say I prefer the star weight :)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ff7 on Sat, 27 January 2018, 11:51:31
I'd prefer a KIRA weight.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: amnesia0287 on Sat, 27 January 2018, 12:58:29
+1 on the Philippines Star.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Puddsy on Sat, 27 January 2018, 13:09:58
Personally prefer the new KIRA weight design but hey that might just be me. Love the layout! Definitely interested but price will be a big part of my participation. With a low order number, might be out of my price range.

Where can we see it ? XD.. since it is not on first post, only the star weight  :))

oh man, now i'm sure i want the sun/stars

that looks kinda tacky, imo
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: amnesia0287 on Sat, 27 January 2018, 13:14:36
Like geometric KIRA design  :thumb:

Will there be engraving on top?  Personally not a fan.
Sample seems to have two indicator holes.  Should there be three?
On top row layout, prefer slight space between clusters (Esc, F1-4, F5-8, F9-12, Extra), which IMO make the top row more usable

Add:
Want 1.5, 1.5, 7, 1.5, 1.5 support on the bottom row, also split NUM+

Only the logo engraving on the upper left corner, the others are personalized engravings for those who got a prototype. I don't use scroll lock, I don't know anyone who uses it, so I did not include it. 7u bottom is supported, I already asked for split backspace and numpad + from the PCB designer. No spacers between function keys.

I don’t use scroll lock, but I still think it would be better with 3 led just cause of looks :P
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Rumblehotep on Sat, 27 January 2018, 15:17:22
What is the meaning of the stars/sun?  There's a truck on my street with the same design decaled.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Etherealsound on Sat, 27 January 2018, 15:30:48
Oh this looks intriguing, I really like what you've done with the back
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: funnystunny on Sat, 27 January 2018, 15:38:57
Highly interested. Looks great

Enviado desde mi Aquaris X mediante Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Puddsy on Sat, 27 January 2018, 15:41:30
What is the meaning of the stars/sun?  There's a truck on my street with the same design decaled.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_the_Philippines (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_the_Philippines)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 27 January 2018, 17:56:32
Thank you for there feedback guys. The 3 stars and a sun is indeed from the Philippine flag where I'm from, and was suggested by krytone early on when I started trying to come up with my own case designs. I came up with the KIRA weight as a "neutral" alternative. I think beamingrobot should've included a poll, although it seems the stars and sun is currently the favorite.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: amnesia0287 on Sat, 27 January 2018, 18:14:40
Thank you for there feedback guys. The 3 stars and a sun is indeed from the Philippine flag where I'm from, and was suggested by krytone early on when I started trying to come up with my own case designs. I came up with the KIRA weight as a "neutral" alternative. I think beamingrobot should've included a poll, although it seems the stars and sun is currently the favorite.

I actually think the style of the KIRA logo is nice, i just think it would be a shame to change the weight to be different than the 60 that is styled the same :P.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 27 January 2018, 18:55:11
I don’t use scroll lock, but I still think it would be better with 3 led just cause of looks :P

I forgot to mention, the location of the indicator lights make them distracting since they are very visible, and a light that didn't have any use for me was kind of pointless, at least in my opinion.

Thank you for there feedback guys. The 3 stars and a sun is indeed from the Philippine flag where I'm from, and was suggested by krytone early on when I started trying to come up with my own case designs. I came up with the KIRA weight as a "neutral" alternative. I think beamingrobot should've included a poll, although it seems the stars and sun is currently the favorite.

I actually think the style of the KIRA logo is nice, i just think it would be a shame to change the weight to be different than the 60 that is styled the same :P.

Thanks, we'll let the people who are interested decide.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: get_weird on Sat, 27 January 2018, 21:31:00
That d.va statue though <3
Is the plate tray mount or case mount?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: anhthao88 on Sat, 27 January 2018, 22:19:10
IMO the Star/sun set looks much better with the blue case.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 27 January 2018, 23:54:19
That d.va statue though <3
Is the plate tray mount or case mount?

It's top-mount
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Sun, 28 January 2018, 01:56:24
Here's a form to indicate your interest, just a username + yes option!  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Aktavate on Sun, 28 January 2018, 04:09:09
Very interested, hope there are enough for everyone! I prefer Kira rear design but it wouldn't be a deal-breaker either way. Any thought to using the logo on the corner of the blue board on the back instead?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: echt on Sun, 28 January 2018, 06:45:28
Will this be using USB-C?  :D
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Sun, 28 January 2018, 07:30:56
Will this be using USB-C?  :D

Not at this point of time unless we make changes, since the entire prototype including PCB has already been produced :)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: jdlee777 on Mon, 29 January 2018, 02:05:45
Looks Good!!

Stars + sun = Good!!
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: bmwyc on Mon, 05 February 2018, 20:07:49
very much interested with kira exs! super thanks to my friend buddy who refer me to this page! more power!

 :eek: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ray160 on Sat, 10 February 2018, 23:17:10
Is this IC for the final version?
(Edit: I'm for the stars + sun on the weight)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Rykno on Sun, 11 February 2018, 01:24:43
Gosh I want this, but no USB-C :(
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Sun, 11 February 2018, 11:03:46
Some more photos:

(https://i.imgur.com/P9brZ9J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Nz6ZnzQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Mp2cREP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/akCAlRh.jpg)

Please note that there will not be any engraving on the top right corner of the board for the GB.

Some things to take note of before we get into GB phase:

1. When/where:

GB thread will be posted on GH, looking at this week if we manage to talk to the factory in time. If not we will have to wait slightly.

2. Price:

TBD. Cost has gone up from the factory side since the KIRA60 buy, we'll see what we can do.

3. Payment:

We're trying out using just Shopify payments (credit/debit card) for all upcoming GBs as Shopify does not freeze incoming $, and still provides buyers protection. No PayPal for this buy.

4. Colours:

TBA. We're trying to ensure that the factory can do a good finish on the colours you guys have voted on eg. blue/purple etc.

Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Unforgivable on Sun, 11 February 2018, 12:21:48
This board looks incredible. That navy blue is pretty on point!

How tall is the front?

Can it be built without that middle section?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: mago on Sun, 11 February 2018, 20:23:13
are there pics showing the differences between the EX and EXS versions?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: kingnestea on Mon, 12 February 2018, 10:37:02
[attachimg=1]

Got mine today, it is sooooo nice...

more pictures see https://imgur.com/a/pmmLi
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: mago on Mon, 12 February 2018, 12:06:01
Such a beautiful board kingnestea, hopefully I can get in on the GB.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ray160 on Mon, 12 February 2018, 13:25:46
I'm so excited for this yet so scared I won't get in lol...
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Brammm87 on Mon, 12 February 2018, 15:22:50
Saw kingnestea's pictures and handled his kira60 at a meetup. I love the triangular design on the sides and I love this layout. I'm definitely interested in this.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: TheKeyCompany on Mon, 12 February 2018, 17:03:47
Pretty sure Ive already told thesiscamper, Im going to need a few of these! Nice work!

Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Tue, 13 February 2018, 01:21:08
are there pics showing the differences between the EX and EXS versions?

The EX has thicker bezels, a second prototype should arrive by March, after Chinese New Year.

The height of the front is around 22.5mm without bumpons, the middle insert provides the clearance for the USB so you kinda need it.

The EX version should look like the one in this post: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=90702.msg2463256#msg2463256
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: mago on Tue, 13 February 2018, 07:35:08
Will a brass plate option be offered as well?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Wed, 14 February 2018, 02:06:06
Will a brass plate option be offered as well?

That shouldn't be a problem.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: stillzman on Wed, 14 February 2018, 13:44:06
Will there be an acrylic diffuser/spacer for this?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: RichardH on Wed, 14 February 2018, 16:55:58
Interested. I like the Kira weight. Looking for a black or dark grey.. a light diffuser would be excellent too.. any eta on the gb?

-Rich
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Wed, 14 February 2018, 17:59:47
Will there be an acrylic diffuser/spacer for this?

It is an option, as seen in kingnestea's board: https://imgur.com/a/pmmLi (https://imgur.com/a/pmmLi)

Interested. I like the Kira weight. Looking for a black or dark grey.. a light diffuser would be excellent too.. any eta on the gb?

-Rich

beamingrobot is readying stuff, should be in a couple of weeks or so.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Photoelectric on Fri, 16 February 2018, 00:47:20
I like the original Kira weight, but here's a thought: the part that shows through at the bottom seems pretty small compared to the large 1800 case.  Seems a bit unbalanced. (I realize that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  In my subjective opinion, the small centered ornate design on the huge plain background is not flattering either of them). I'd rather see a full rectangle of the weight below the case, with the logo engraved (and whatever other text).
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: mago on Fri, 16 February 2018, 15:02:18
If blue is picked as one of the two colors, will it be close to GMK Hydros?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 17 February 2018, 08:51:19
I like the original Kira weight, but here's a thought: the part that shows through at the bottom seems pretty small compared to the large 1800 case.  Seems a bit unbalanced. (I realize that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  In my subjective opinion, the small centered ornate design on the huge plain background is not flattering either of them). I'd rather see a full rectangle of the weight below the case, with the logo engraved (and whatever other text).

Thank you for your suggestion. The truth is, I don't really want to do what other makers have been doing, and making another rectangular weight just feels so lazy and unoriginal for me. This is also why I don't stick to just one design for the sides. If people like it enough to do a small run then that's great, if not then it's okay too. I'll just try to keep on coming up with new ones until I've lost interest or more likely, money  :)).

I understand what you mean about the weight design looking a bit small, and I think that is true for the 60%, but for this layout the sun and stars are the right size I feel.

tldr:
There are enough boards with that one look, and I'd like to do something that's at least a bit different.

If blue is picked as one of the two colors, will it be close to GMK Hydros?

It will be a brighter blue than the prototype, I think I already have a sample and I'll try to find it.

edit:
I forgot to say, I am trying to come up with a new weight design for my next projects, but this board will stay as is.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Photoelectric on Sat, 17 February 2018, 20:47:57
Thanks for your reply :)  Yeah, I understand about rectangular weights.  I wasn't suggesting a rectangular weight because it's standard, but rather as a simple quick solution for a more balanced size (and probably a lower CNC price).  In any event, it's your vision, so you should do what makes you happy.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: amnesia0287 on Sun, 18 February 2018, 13:19:30
Thanks for your reply :)  Yeah, I understand about rectangular weights.  I wasn't suggesting a rectangular weight because it's standard, but rather as a simple quick solution for a more balanced size (and probably a lower CNC price).  In any event, it's your vision, so you should do what makes you happy.

But the Kira weight looks so good on my 60. And it’s already so heavy.

I already have cases with bar weights. This is more fun. 
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Unforgivable on Sun, 18 February 2018, 19:52:20
I like the original Kira weight, but here's a thought: the part that shows through at the bottom seems pretty small compared to the large 1800 case.  Seems a bit unbalanced. (I realize that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  In my subjective opinion, the small centered ornate design on the huge plain background is not flattering either of them). I'd rather see a full rectangle of the weight below the case, with the logo engraved (and whatever other text).

Thank you for your suggestion. The truth is, I don't really want to do what other makers have been doing, and making another rectangular weight just feels so lazy and unoriginal for me. This is also why I don't stick to just one design for the sides. If people like it enough to do a small run then that's great, if not then it's okay too. I'll just try to keep on coming up with new ones until I've lost interest or more likely, money  :)).

I understand what you mean about the weight design looking a bit small, and I think that is true for the 60%, but for this layout the sun and stars are the right size I feel.

tldr:
There are enough boards with that one look, and I'd like to do something that's at least a bit different.

If blue is picked as one of the two colors, will it be close to GMK Hydros?

It will be a brighter blue than the prototype, I think I already have a sample and I'll try to find it.

edit:
I forgot to say, I am trying to come up with a new weight design for my next projects, but this board will stay as is.

Aww, so no Navy Blue? :(
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sun, 18 February 2018, 21:21:05
Thanks for your reply :)  Yeah, I understand about rectangular weights.  I wasn't suggesting a rectangular weight because it's standard, but rather as a simple quick solution for a more balanced size (and probably a lower CNC price).  In any event, it's your vision, so you should do what makes you happy.

I'll be looking into larger weight designs that show from the bottom, but it will unlikely be a rectangular bar.  :thumb:

More
Thanks for your reply :)  Yeah, I understand about rectangular weights.  I wasn't suggesting a rectangular weight because it's standard, but rather as a simple quick solution for a more balanced size (and probably a lower CNC price).  In any event, it's your vision, so you should do what makes you happy.

But the Kira weight looks so good on my 60. And it’s already so heavy.

I already have cases with bar weights. This is more fun. 

I feel it looks small compared to the area of the bottom, but I am glad you like it. Thanks!

More
I like the original Kira weight, but here's a thought: the part that shows through at the bottom seems pretty small compared to the large 1800 case.  Seems a bit unbalanced. (I realize that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  In my subjective opinion, the small centered ornate design on the huge plain background is not flattering either of them). I'd rather see a full rectangle of the weight below the case, with the logo engraved (and whatever other text).

Thank you for your suggestion. The truth is, I don't really want to do what other makers have been doing, and making another rectangular weight just feels so lazy and unoriginal for me. This is also why I don't stick to just one design for the sides. If people like it enough to do a small run then that's great, if not then it's okay too. I'll just try to keep on coming up with new ones until I've lost interest or more likely, money  :)).

I understand what you mean about the weight design looking a bit small, and I think that is true for the 60%, but for this layout the sun and stars are the right size I feel.

tldr:
There are enough boards with that one look, and I'd like to do something that's at least a bit different.

If blue is picked as one of the two colors, will it be close to GMK Hydros?

It will be a brighter blue than the prototype, I think I already have a sample and I'll try to find it.

edit:
I forgot to say, I am trying to come up with a new weight design for my next projects, but this board will stay as is.

Aww, so no Navy Blue? :(

Unlikely, but beamingrobot and I will look into it.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ray160 on Mon, 19 February 2018, 15:01:49
Will the PCB be holtite compatible?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Tue, 20 February 2018, 17:10:23
Will the PCB be holtite compatible?

I haven't tried so I can't be sure.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: DillonHightower on Fri, 23 February 2018, 08:56:42
Is this seriously going to be limited to only 30 units!?  Sad day if so...
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ch4rd on Fri, 23 February 2018, 09:09:00
Is this seriously going to be limited to only 30 units!?  Sad day if so...

Indeed.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Fri, 23 February 2018, 09:10:35
Is this seriously going to be limited to only 30 units!?  Sad day if so...
Logistically speaking 25-30 units would be the easiest to handle on our end and turn around/production time is faster too. Those who joined the KIRA60 buy can attest to that.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: DillonHightower on Fri, 23 February 2018, 09:17:34
Is this seriously going to be limited to only 30 units!?  Sad day if so...
Logistically speaking 25-30 units would be the easiest to handle on our end and turn around/production time is faster too. Those who joined the KIRA60 buy can attest to that.


At the end of the day , I speak for my self and probably others as well but, most would not mind waiting ~ 6 months for something great like this, if persay the Gb was limited to roughly 100 units this timeline could be achieved and more could actually have a chance of getting in. Also over all, you may be able to save a little more on cost due to higher volume intake. ❤️❤️❤️
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: RichardH on Fri, 23 February 2018, 09:46:39
Is it going to be a raffle?

-Rich
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: DillonHightower on Fri, 23 February 2018, 09:56:01
Is it going to be a raffle?

-Rich
Yep. That is what was said
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ray160 on Fri, 23 February 2018, 16:23:47
I wouldn't mind a longer wait!
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Aktavate on Fri, 23 February 2018, 19:22:07
Is this seriously going to be limited to only 30 units!?  Sad day if so...
Logistically speaking 25-30 units would be the easiest to handle on our end and turn around/production time is faster too. Those who joined the KIRA60 buy can attest to that.


At the end of the day , I speak for my self and probably others as well but, most would not mind waiting ~ 6 months for something great like this, if persay the Gb was limited to roughly 100 units this timeline could be achieved and more could actually have a chance of getting in. Also over all, you may be able to save a little more on cost due to higher volume intake. ❤️❤️❤️

Agreed, I don't care if it's "exclusive limited production" and I don't need it right away, but I really like the design.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: amnesia0287 on Fri, 23 February 2018, 19:28:46
Keep quantity low. Kira60 is one of the nicest boards I've gotten. I don't wanna risk quality slipping just to make sure more people can get one. Not every keyboard needs to be accessible. I'm guessing getting QC this good was not easy.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: DillonHightower on Fri, 23 February 2018, 21:25:31
Keep quantity low. Kira60 is one of the nicest boards I've gotten. I don't wanna risk quality slipping just to make sure more people can get one. Not every keyboard needs to be accessible. I'm guessing getting QC this good was not easy.

Low numbers has nothing to do with quality. Taking the necessary time and being ivloved with the product while it’s being manufactured does. 100 units is very obtainable to have great quality and a Managable timeline. Look at every duck gb, look at tx 1800 gb, and many others. . All those boards are amazing.  And they have had more than a handful of boards being made per buy.

 If small numbers is purley to deliver boards in a small amount of time, most would not mind if the timeline was doubled in order to have more openings. I mean you could even do it in waves. ( first 30 to be delivered in x amount of time. And every 30 after to follow x amount of days/months later)
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Sat, 24 February 2018, 00:24:08
1. Logistically:

We won't be able to fulfill that many units, not when both my wife and I have day jobs/studies and can only do monokei stuff at night.

2. Turn around time:

Much faster with fewer units, and easier for us to work on QC directly with the factory and stuff like that.

3. $:

I always do buys based on how much buffer I have. Which means $ for 30 units set apart in my personal bank account in case **** hits the fan so that I can cover any cost, even if the entire buy fails. I simply do not have that much $ lying around.

Anyway, I think it's better to work with smaller buys, easier in terms of working through different configs, I can dedicate more time to QC of individual boards and stuff like that.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Sat, 24 February 2018, 01:48:58
Exclusivity is not the intention, it's just the reality of beamingrobot's situation, ie. he can only handle smaller buys. Personally, I'm just sharing what I've designed to others who like it too. Maybe if monokei gets the hang of it and we're still making things people want then we can raise the MOQ.

We're just keeping it simple and easy to handle for now.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: ihalatch on Sat, 24 February 2018, 01:52:41
Please, make more units, I don't mind waiting like most of the folks here. There is always bitterness after raffles it's inevitable.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Chimera on Tue, 27 February 2018, 11:16:55
Is the plan still this week for the group buy?

There is a few other 96's I've been looking at but I like this one a lot.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Tue, 27 February 2018, 11:36:50
Yup it'll be up this week
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Chimera on Tue, 27 February 2018, 12:24:41
Yup it'll be up this week

is there a price yet?
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Genn on Tue, 27 February 2018, 13:59:50
Considering that the Kira96 is being handled by IC, is there going to be a "true" 96-key Kira board? I mean, one of equal quality to the Kira EXS and 60. I prefer the 96-key layout, and I highly doubt the IC one will be as nice as this, so I wouldn't wanna miss out on owning one.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Tue, 27 February 2018, 18:09:49
Considering that the Kira96 is being handled by IC, is there going to be a "true" 96-key Kira board? I mean, one of equal quality to the Kira EXS and 60. I prefer the 96-key layout, and I highly doubt the IC one will be as nice as this, so I wouldn't wanna miss out on owning one.

I haven't seriously thought about it, and even if I design one it will not be anytime soon. There a few boards that I have finished doing CAD for, a few that have prototypes made, and I haven't really considered doing a true 96-key in the near future. It shouldn't take long to make a CAD for one anyway, maybe a few hours. The design is already there, just need to translate it to something that can be manufactured. It's just further down the list of priorities.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: Photoelectric on Tue, 27 February 2018, 22:14:04
I hope to see some anodizing color options that mimic other metals, like pewter, bronze, copper.  Pewter would be neutral enough but not quite the plain standard silver.  The logo on the EX prototype looks great!
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: paulforgione on Tue, 27 February 2018, 22:21:32
I totally understand the logistics of making this a smaller group buy. I’d love to hop into the raffle for this, since I’ve been following the Kira projects for ages and am in need of an 1800 layout. Also, the thing looks gorgeous.

BUT. I’m saddened by this being USB mini. I get it, it’s currently ubiquitous in the MK community. Lots of folks have invested in custom cables to match their boards. It’s probably easier (and cheaper?) to find a mini port to solder onto the board than it is a USB C one. But still, Mini is basically a dead connector. It’s only going to get more niche. Plus, we could all enjoy having a reversible cable that’s more durable when swapping between boards.

Sorry to go on a rant about this here. I was just catching up and was excited by the EXS news until I saw the connector. I may still hop in anyway, but I just wanted to voice my concern for any future GBs or concepts you may have coming up. Good luck with the buy!
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: thesiscamper on Wed, 28 February 2018, 03:05:12
I totally understand the logistics of making this a smaller group buy. I’d love to hop into the raffle for this, since I’ve been following the Kira projects for ages and am in need of an 1800 layout. Also, the thing looks gorgeous.

BUT. I’m saddened by this being USB mini. I get it, it’s currently ubiquitous in the MK community. Lots of folks have invested in custom cables to match their boards. It’s probably easier (and cheaper?) to find a mini port to solder onto the board than it is a USB C one. But still, Mini is basically a dead connector. It’s only going to get more niche. Plus, we could all enjoy having a reversible cable that’s more durable when swapping between boards.

Sorry to go on a rant about this here. I was just catching up and was excited by the EXS news until I saw the connector. I may still hop in anyway, but I just wanted to voice my concern for any future GBs or concepts you may have coming up. Good luck with the buy!

Hi! I understand your point/s, and it is indeed better to move forward. Please understand that we are relatively new players in the custom board field, and as such we had to choose the safest reasonable route for the group buys. We can be biting off more than we can chew instead, and let participants deal with the issues when they arise, be it higher MOQ or offering more flexibility to layouts, etc. We didn't want that, and we didn't want the headache of dealing with those stuff.

I will look into this, and weigh the pros and cons of switching to Type-C. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Title: Re: [IC] KIRA EXS
Post by: beamingrobot on Wed, 28 February 2018, 08:48:58
Thanks for the comments everyone, GB thread is up so we'll move over to that thread for any further discussion!

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=94290.0