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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: QQMBR on Thu, 03 January 2019, 06:46:26

Title: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 03 January 2019, 06:46:26
[attachimg=1]


NEWS
New international sets!!! GB live.
Vendors:
US: Kono (https://kono.store/products/kat-specimen)
EU: MyKeyboard (https://mykeyboard.eu/catalogue/category/group-buys/kat-specimen_246/)
AU: DailyClack (https://dailyclack.com/products/kat-specimen)
ASIA: zFrontier (https://en.zfrontier.com/products/kat-specimen) (Chinese site (https://www.zfrontier.com/m/5725))
UA, BLR, RU: FunKeys (https://groupbuy.funkeys.com.ua/kat_specimen)


Changes to sets are now only possible as long as only the color, row or legends of a key change, the unit count must stay the same!
For color accuracy refer to renders, not the kits, they use slightly wrong colors




What is KAT?

In the words of the zFrontier website:
Quote
a brand new collection of high profile molds from Keyreative. Nineteen months of intense research, machining, and testing resulted in this delectably thick (1.658mm) sculpted design. Some inspiration also came from cats, as their claws provide an appealing slope to model keycap curves on.

Unlike SA, which can seem pointy and disproportionately tall on modern keyboards, KAT is smooth. Silky smooth. Superlatively smooth. Kat's concave keycaps don't stab or inhibit your fingertips during row jumps, nor do they have the gritty texture that one typically associates with PBT plastic. The characteristic dryness of PBT is present, but your fingertips won't be ground into submission by the substrate.

Some keycap sets make generic nods to sound quality, but premium audio design was a serious consideration in KAT profile. The interior walls of its keycaps are angled such that sound is reflected in a precise pattern. That should, when coupled with high wall thickness, provide sharp clicks and muted clacks.

Finally, KAT keycap tops have the same dimensions across each row. That's a vast visual improvement, but it also has a positive impact on muscle memory while touch typing.


[attachimg=2]
The classic Koyu by Rama.

[attachimg=3]
Kotai from the super helpful Stewiedk97.

[attachimg=4]

[attachimg=5]
Another classic - the Iron165.

[attachimg=6]

[attachimg=7]
Prototype model of the Pneuma by Stewiedk97 (still WIP).

All renders made by me.


Why KAT?

A flat profile just doesn't feel right for this set I think, so the decision was down to manufacturers who can
do either doubleshot or reverse dye-sub. Frankly, I think a lot of us are tired of SA and GMK, and since
trying out new, innovative things is always awesome, KAT felt like a natural choice (plus: KAT -> cat, and cats are awesome).

Why specimen?

The name came to me out of pretty much nowhere, and it just stuck. This set feels pretty hard to name anyhow, so I'm happy I have one.

What kits are there?

Glad you asked:

[attachimg=8]
The most basic of base kits. Should support pretty much all 60% to TKL keyboards and also HHKB style layouts. Two large spacebars are included so you don't need to buy a spacebar kit for certain layouts anymore. Some common 65% layouts are also supported.

[attachimg=18]
Lots and lots of extras, good 40% keyboard support should be included as well.

[attachimg=9]
Full ortho support, hopefully a lot of different layouts are in here!

[attachimg=10]
Vim movement keys along with some rather arbitrarily placed novelties.

[attachimg=11]
A small and simple addon for people wishing to use a (UK) ISO layout.

[attachimg=12]
A good splash of color for people wanting to spice up their TKL right hand side. Along with the classic numpad.

[attachimg=13]
Just some blanks to cover some normal layouts, Colevrak, etc. keys aren't supported, so this is also for you if that's ok :(.

[attachimg=14]
Northern layouts, many thanks to eskimojo of KAT Lich for the necessary keys

[attachimg=15]
Southern layouts, Italy isn't 100% supported through sheer stupidity on my part (you'll need extras or deal with one wrong legend on the top left).

[attachimg=16]
Hopefully everything a classic French layout needs.

[attachimg=17]
For smaller, split spacebars.



The Pantone colors
Purple/Blue:  2371U (previously Dark Blue U)
Pink: 226 U (previously Rubine Red)
Orange: 123 U (previously 2013 U)
Teal: 331 U


EDIT: Okay first question, someone pls, what the **** went wrong with color/numpad two images?
EDIT1: I thinks it's alright now. Lesson 1: Don't be a GH noob.
UPDATE 04/01/2019: Ergodox kit removed due to Keyreative's lack of 1.5u upright molds required for the ErgoDox.  :(
UPDATE 02/26/2019 (Adding this the day after): Major update with new colors per Pantone Uncoated and kit updates.
UPDATE 03/26/2019: Updated kits:
EDIT 03/26/2019: Fixing stuff in post and moving things around...
UPDATE 03/29/2019:
EDIT 03/30/2019:
I quite simply forgot to add the blanks yesterday, also updated extensions description with UFO and cow novelty suggestions.
UPDATE 04/22/2019:
UPDATE 06/24/2019:
UPDATE 07/02/2019:



Banner thing, you know better than me how it works:
[/list]
Code: [Select]
[url=https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=98810.0][img width=300 height=120]https://imgur.com/a/uyteg7l[/img][/url]
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: The_Boom_Boy on Thu, 03 January 2019, 07:02:23
Interesting
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: _ODIN_ on Thu, 03 January 2019, 07:25:03
Very interesting. Can you add a NorDe kit?

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: laserbeamspewpew on Thu, 03 January 2019, 07:36:18
I like it.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 03 January 2019, 07:40:32
Very interesting. Can you add a NorDe kit?

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If there's enough interest, it should be possible.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: equalunique on Thu, 03 January 2019, 07:57:22
Those colors should look nice with Outemu Sky switches.

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: nasp on Thu, 03 January 2019, 09:16:57
Would be nice to see a split backspace (delete) option since that layout has become quite popular.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: laserbeamspewpew on Thu, 03 January 2019, 09:27:40
Needs HHKB backspace and tilde/delete.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 03 January 2019, 10:06:04
Needs HHKB backspace and tilde/delete.

Would be nice to see a split backspace (delete) option since that layout has become quite popular.

Thanks for pointing these issues out. I will add the keys:
1.5 u delete and 1u tilde.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: rowie on Thu, 03 January 2019, 10:18:54
Nice work so far. Wish there is a center gradient kit for tkl and ortho kits. MT3 would be nice. Otherwise, good luck and hope this can be a reality.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: equalunique on Thu, 03 January 2019, 10:40:19
Personally I would go with blank ortho mods that don't make assumptions about what keymap one's using, like the ergo mods.

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 03 January 2019, 11:23:47
Nice work so far. Wish there is a center gradient kit for tkl and ortho kits. MT3 would be nice. Otherwise, good luck and hope this can be a reality.  :thumb:

Thanks a lot for your kind words, they do mean a lot. By center gradient, do you mean a longer one? I guess that could work on ortho, but with TKL the spacebar would be in the way. I talked to Matt3o about MT3, but they can't do reverse dye sub/ doubleshot just yet, which is a problem with the pink on purple part.

Personally I would go with blank ortho mods that don't make assumptions about what keymap one's using, like the ergo mods.

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If enough people prefer that, it would certainly be a way to go.

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: sJ1N on Thu, 03 January 2019, 11:43:47
interested, especially since i want to try KAT profile
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: _ODIN_ on Thu, 03 January 2019, 13:08:20
Please get samples of all the colors and the reverse dye subbing. I think every one here is OK with waiting a few more weeks for an improved product in the end.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: tskiller on Thu, 03 January 2019, 14:56:14
I can dig it. I like the contrasting colors. Will there be support for 40% layouts like minivan?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: click clack jack on Thu, 03 January 2019, 21:01:31
Very interested in this. Yes please think of more novelties. Those really determine if I buy or not. It's always fun. Milkshake did awesome one that.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Fri, 04 January 2019, 01:54:39
Space bar kit? Split space bars?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: Vireca on Fri, 04 January 2019, 05:34:36
I think im missing something for 65% keyboards, maybe is the non standard right shift
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: QQMBR on Fri, 04 January 2019, 06:17:42
I think im missing something for 65% keyboards, maybe is the non standard right shift

Thanks for the feedback, that's my bad, I added a 1.75u shift. Anything else?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: Vireca on Mon, 07 January 2019, 04:34:50
I think im missing something for 65% keyboards, maybe is the non standard right shift

Thanks for the feedback, that's my bad, I added a 1.75u shift. Anything else?
All fine now I think. Maybe you should check some Keyset´s IC form other designers, so you can see if you are missing something for the kits.

Do you know how much will cost the base kit more or less? There are few caps, so maybe the price can be around KAT Alpha?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: thelaughingman on Tue, 08 January 2019, 02:50:33
I don't like the colourway so won't be joining if this gets to GB phase, though really appreciate you going for KAT profile - I've got KAT Alpha coming in this weekend and can't wait to try since both Huey & Quakemz gave it high praises. Best of luck  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: LuiKang on Fri, 15 March 2019, 08:45:43
Very interested! There should be more KAT sets! I'd scoop any KAT set that feels as good as KAT Alpha's!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: vicissitude on Fri, 15 March 2019, 08:52:35
Love this set so much.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: LuiKang on Fri, 15 March 2019, 09:11:45
Would be nice if this will also come in blank. KAT feels good, sounds good and looks good.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: equalunique on Fri, 15 March 2019, 09:48:57
That ortho set is perfect for a planck I have! Will join.

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: _ODIN_ on Fri, 15 March 2019, 18:59:51
Is this still advancing?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: elfick on Fri, 15 March 2019, 19:15:59
How about a "Specimono" add-on kit that provides black-on-teal replacements for the purple, red, and orange keys?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: piercejenkins on Fri, 15 March 2019, 21:42:53
The ortho kit seems to have an escape key in place of caps lock.  Adding either caps lock or ctrl/cmd key options for that cap would be nice. This is definitely an interesting set
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: OkKarma on Sat, 16 March 2019, 06:01:13
The " key has the legends inverted on both the base and ortho kits, btw.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: Moridin on Sat, 16 March 2019, 08:24:09
Could use a 1.5U DEL and ESC for top row for Vortex Race 3.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: beekey on Sat, 16 March 2019, 08:59:14
Spacebar Kit needs a 2.75 to cover the most common split space bar layouts.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: LuiKang on Mon, 18 March 2019, 18:02:42
Would like to see a dedicated HHKB set.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: heavyheaded on Wed, 20 March 2019, 11:42:57
Set needs a purple R2 1.75 control key. Why bother with the 1.5 delete if you aren't going to actually cover the HHKBs?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: The_Royal on Wed, 20 March 2019, 12:47:02
I Think both a R3 1.75u "Enter" and a 1.25u "Tab" key is pretty standard for a 40% compatibility set.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: QQMBR on Mon, 25 March 2019, 13:36:00
Would be nice if this will also come in blank. KAT feels good, sounds good and looks good.

Not sure about blank, will have a think about it tho!
I Think both a R3 1.75u "Enter" and a 1.25u "Tab" key is pretty standard for a 40% compatibility set.

Note taken, thanks a lot.

Set needs a purple R2 1.75 control key. Why bother with the 1.5 delete if you aren't going to actually cover the HHKBs?

Probably just an oversight on my part, it's added now.

Would like to see a dedicated HHKB set.

Not sure how that would look like, I'll see if I can sneak HHKB compatibility into the base set.

Spacebar Kit needs a 2.75 to cover the most common split space bar layouts.

Copy that, thanks for the feedback  :)

Could use a 1.5U DEL and ESC for top row for Vortex Race 3.

Will add that to extras.

The " key has the legends inverted on both the base and ortho kits, btw.

Fixed, good looking out!

How about a "Specimono" add-on kit that provides black-on-teal replacements for the purple, red, and orange keys?

Not sure if that would bee too bland or not, interesting to consider tho!
Is this still advancing?

I do very much want to press on with the project, I just wanted to work on perfecting some changes
instead of spewing out new stuff, first impressions and that.

Right, I think a small update is due for all you good people:
I am working on finalizing the Pantone colors for the set. Expect some changes -
all together a tad bit more pastely due to Pantone Uncoated colors being better for the Keyreative process
and brighter with black on purple instead of pink on purple. I'll update the post in the coming days when I'm ready.
Regarding kits, I'm thinking 4 sets:

Currently, I kinda have spacebars integrated into the base kit, do you guys think that's a good idea or should I add it to a separate set?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: _ODIN_ on Mon, 25 March 2019, 13:42:10
No International kit :(. Thank you for the update.

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: QQMBR on Mon, 25 March 2019, 14:36:28
No International kit :(. Thank you for the update.

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What would you like to see in an international kit? Something like Norde? I mean, given
enough interest, I can add it :)

I just don't know how many people want this set enough to buy it...
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATE: Spacebars and 40s)
Post by: _ODIN_ on Mon, 25 March 2019, 14:52:38
No International kit :(. Thank you for the update.

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What would you like to see in an international kit? Something like Norde? I mean, given
enough interest, I can add it :)

I just don't know how many people want this set enough to buy it...
A NorDe kit would be nice, but I don’t think that it will be able to hit MOQ :( .
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE: COLORS AND KITS)
Post by: LuiKang on Mon, 25 March 2019, 17:05:48
@QQMBR Go KAT go blank :) I'll be in either way. Will reserve 3 blank sets if there'd be some.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: equalunique on Wed, 27 March 2019, 08:24:55
Need this for my planck in a pink case

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: QQMBR on Wed, 27 March 2019, 14:38:10
Need this for my planck in a pink case

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Sounds like a nice combo! So you like the ortholinear kit? Anything you're missing?

@QQMBR Go KAT go blank :) I'll be in either way. Will reserve 3 blank sets if there'd be some.
That's quite some support <3. I just added a question about blanks to the google poll, but noone really uses it sadly, it's
therefore hard for me to judge if there are other people out there interested in blanks :(. Do you want base kit blanks or
ortho blanks? Or just everything?

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: LuiKang on Wed, 27 March 2019, 15:25:59

@QQMBR Go KAT go blank :) I'll be in either way. Will reserve 3 blank sets if there'd be some.

That's quite some support <3. I just added a question about blanks to the google poll, but noone really uses it sadly, it's
therefore hard for me to judge if there are other people out there interested in blanks :(. Do you want base kit blanks or
ortho blanks? Or just everything?
I meant blank base kit as I'm not into ortho. You should add an option for blank base set in the poll, then see if people'd show interests. Blank KAT profile keycaps would be supreme. Write history by producing world's first blank KAT profile keycaps set ;)
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: LuiKang on Wed, 27 March 2019, 16:20:08
*blank*
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: equalunique on Wed, 27 March 2019, 16:27:33


Need this for my planck in a pink case

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Sounds like a nice combo! So you like the ortholinear kit? Anything you're missing?

@QQMBR Go KAT go blank :) I'll be in either way. Will reserve 3 blank sets if there'd be some.
That's quite some support <3. I just added a question about blanks to the google poll, but noone really uses it sadly, it's
therefore hard for me to judge if there are other people out there interested in blanks :(. Do you want base kit blanks or
ortho blanks? Or just everything?

The ortho kit has everything I need. Personally however I don't use the default Planck layout & prefer blank mods myself like LuiKang, however I appreciate the artistic touch your raise/lower legends have. Blank or legends, either is fine with me. Gonna do that poll now...

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Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 28 March 2019, 00:47:56
*blank*

I'm thinking how I should integrate blanks as a kit. It should be easier than with legends, but I'm not sure if one kit is enough. I'll see what I can come up with. What kinda kit would you prefer?



Need this for my planck in a pink case

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Sounds like a nice combo! So you like the ortholinear kit? Anything you're missing?

@QQMBR Go KAT go blank :) I'll be in either way. Will reserve 3 blank sets if there'd be some.
That's quite some support <3. I just added a question about blanks to the google poll, but noone really uses it sadly, it's
therefore hard for me to judge if there are other people out there interested in blanks :(. Do you want base kit blanks or
ortho blanks? Or just everything?

The ortho kit has everything I need. Personally however I don't use the default Planck layout & prefer blank mods myself like LuiKang, however I appreciate the artistic touch your raise/lower legends have. Blank or legends, either is fine with me. Gonna do that poll now...

Sent from my LG-H918 using Tapatalk


Thanks for the kind words on the legends. Do you want normal alphas with blank mods? In that case I better split a blank kit into base and mods, but if not, one large kit might be enough.

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: LuiKang on Thu, 28 March 2019, 13:59:48
*blank*

I'm thinking how I should integrate blanks as a kit. It should be easier than with legends, but I'm not sure if one kit is enough. I'll see what I can come up with. What kinda kit would you prefer?

If you'd do a blank set like the EnjoyPBT set in the link below, but without numpad, then you'd cover the majority of the layouts as seen on custom boards. From there you can add extras (like ortho extras, numpad, novelties with cool symbols, etc.). Personally I'm mostly interested in covering all my hhkb layouts with blank KAT keycaps. But I'm OK if blank is not an option. As long as it's KAT.

EnjoyPBT blank keycaps
https://kbdfans.cn/collections/enjoypbt-keycaps/products/enjoypbt-blank-keycaps-117keys
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: QQMBR on Fri, 29 March 2019, 13:18:46
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V3: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO, BLANKS AND MORE)
Post by: _ODIN_ on Fri, 29 March 2019, 13:32:57
Voted on the poll
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V3: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO, BLANKS AND MORE)
Post by: QQMBR on Fri, 29 March 2019, 13:48:03
Voted on the poll

Thanks, it does help quite a bit.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V2: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO AND MORE)
Post by: LuiKang on Fri, 29 March 2019, 16:30:47
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
If you'd take your current base kit, remove the extra columns beyond TKL, but include all rows. Make that blank, then you're done!

What's the minimum quantity?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V3: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO, BLANKS AND MORE)
Post by: QQMBR on Sat, 30 March 2019, 02:33:58
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
If you'd take your current base kit, remove the extra columns beyond TKL, but include all rows. Make that blank, then you're done!

What's the minimum quantity?

Wow I'm an idiot. I literally just forgot to add the blanks yesterday evening... About the MOQ, I haven't gotten word from Keyreative yet but I think it should be at least like 50, which already
might be difficult for blanks. I'll add the kit in a sec, sorry for the confusion.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NOW WITH BLANKS)
Post by: sevenseacat on Sat, 30 March 2019, 05:37:50
Blank will be perfect, so I can try the profile, get funky colours, and not have to worry about incorrect legends 👍

(am a Colemak user)
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (MAJOR UPDATE V3: COLORS, KITS - FULL ORTHO, BLANKS AND MORE)
Post by: LuiKang on Sat, 30 March 2019, 09:46:04
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
If you'd take your current base kit, remove the extra columns beyond TKL, but include all rows. Make that blank, then you're done!

What's the minimum quantity?

Wow I'm an idiot. I literally just forgot to add the blanks yesterday evening... About the MOQ, I haven't gotten word from Keyreative yet but I think it should be at least like 50, which already
might be difficult for blanks. I'll add the kit in a sec, sorry for the confusion.
You are missing a 1.75u Shift in the blank base kit.

MOQ of 50 could be doable.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NOW WITH BLANKS)
Post by: QQMBR on Sat, 30 March 2019, 11:52:12
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
If you'd take your current base kit, remove the extra columns beyond TKL, but include all rows. Make that blank, then you're done!

What's the minimum quantity?

Wow I'm an idiot. I literally just forgot to add the blanks yesterday evening... About the MOQ, I haven't gotten word from Keyreative yet but I think it should be at least like 50, which already
might be difficult for blanks. I'll add the kit in a sec, sorry for the confusion.
You are missing a 1.75u Shift in the blank base kit.

MOQ of 50 could be doable.

A teal one right? I will add it in the next iteration.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NOW WITH BLANKS)
Post by: LuiKang on Sat, 30 March 2019, 12:00:25
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
If you'd take your current base kit, remove the extra columns beyond TKL, but include all rows. Make that blank, then you're done!

What's the minimum quantity?

Wow I'm an idiot. I literally just forgot to add the blanks yesterday evening... About the MOQ, I haven't gotten word from Keyreative yet but I think it should be at least like 50, which already
might be difficult for blanks. I'll add the kit in a sec, sorry for the confusion.
You are missing a 1.75u Shift in the blank base kit.

MOQ of 50 could be doable.

A teal one right? I will add it in the next iteration.
That's right. Thx!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Mon, 22 April 2019, 09:11:48
Added a very basic blanks kit, are modifiers needed? Personally, I don't think even the base kit could reach a MOQ.
If you'd take your current base kit, remove the extra columns beyond TKL, but include all rows. Make that blank, then you're done!

What's the minimum quantity?

Wow I'm an idiot. I literally just forgot to add the blanks yesterday evening... About the MOQ, I haven't gotten word from Keyreative yet but I think it should be at least like 50, which already
might be difficult for blanks. I'll add the kit in a sec, sorry for the confusion.
You are missing a 1.75u Shift in the blank base kit.

MOQ of 50 could be doable.

A teal one right? I will add it in the next iteration.
That's right. Thx!

Added it now, along with some new information!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: EightDiagram on Thu, 25 April 2019, 17:06:41
6u spacebar centered or off-centered stem? (plz include spacebars in base kit  :thumb:)
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: Obe on Thu, 25 April 2019, 18:49:37
Please make this happen with blanks. Been wanting a good blank set and a KAT set too.....Also is there any price estimate?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Fri, 26 April 2019, 02:10:02
6u spacebar centered or off-centered stem? (plz include spacebars in base kit  :thumb:)

What spacebars do you want to see in the base kit? I don't want to put too many in there because
most people use one of the two that are in there... I'll have to ask zFrontier about the spacebar stem.

Please make this happen with blanks. Been wanting a good blank set and a KAT set too.....Also is there any price estimate?
I'll do my best  :thumb:
No, there isn't any price estimate or MOQ because Keyreative are a bit slow nowadays and have large orders, so
zFontier couldn't tell me anything just yet.
KAT Alpha (all white) was $100 USD, I think it's safe to say a colored, custom set will cost a bit more ($110USD?). I don't know.

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: coffeeshopcoder on Fri, 26 April 2019, 02:10:54
Would you kindly consider adding poker and hhkb themed movement keys to the extensions kit along with the vim movement keys ?

poker -> (I,J,K,L) -> (up, left, down, right).
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Fri, 26 April 2019, 02:37:31
Would you kindly consider adding poker and hhkb themed movement keys to the extensions kit along with the vim movement keys ?

poker -> (I,J,K,L) -> (up, left, down, right).


Sure, I didn't know those existed but I'll add them to the extensions kit (kinda movement kit as of now).

Question to the guys that like blank:
Do you not like something about the legends I used, or do you just want a blank kit?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: sevenseacat on Fri, 26 April 2019, 06:46:54
Question to the guys that like blank:
Do you not like something about the legends I used, or do you just want a blank kit?

Your legends aren't compatible with my layout (Colemak).
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: Surefoot on Sat, 27 April 2019, 12:08:52
More KAT keys is a good thing ! Too bad they cant make them any faster. That set has some interesting colors, i think i'll get one..
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: oldcat on Sun, 28 April 2019, 23:07:48
KAT needs more love!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Mon, 29 April 2019, 10:09:01
More KAT keys is a good thing ! Too bad they cant make them any faster. That set has some interesting colors, i think i'll get one..

Thanks a lot, I think it's quite a shame as well.

Question to the guys that like blank:
Do you not like something about the legends I used, or do you just want a blank kit?

Your legends aren't compatible with my layout (Colemak).

Do you actually have an issue with not having Colemak legends or is blank just fine?

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: sevenseacat on Mon, 29 April 2019, 21:43:07
Blank is fine.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: EightDiagram on Tue, 30 April 2019, 08:43:56


What spacebars do you want to see in the base kit? I don't want to put too many in there because
most people use one of the two that are in there... I'll have to ask zFrontier about the spacebar stem.



6.25, 7u and 6u off-centered would be sufficient for base
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: Visionaire on Thu, 16 May 2019, 18:11:39
Interested. Following for updates.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Sat, 18 May 2019, 12:57:47
Interested. Following for updates.

Thank you. Next major update should hopefully be info about MOQ and pricing (whenever Keyreative are ready)!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: WooWapDaBam on Thu, 23 May 2019, 04:28:36
Interested as well. Would it be possible to get blanks for the numpad too? Interested in blanks because I use swiss ISO layout and don't really wanna have "wrong" legends on my caps.

Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 23 May 2019, 23:44:34
Interested as well. Would it be possible to get blanks for the numpad too? Interested in blanks because I use swiss ISO layout and don't really wanna have "wrong" legends on my caps.

Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk



I guess I can add a kit - but that probably wouldn't reach an MOQ, so it would likely be better for it to be on the base blank kit. I'm just not sure what kind of a price increase that would be.
If there's enough interest, sure, of course!

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (UPDATES : Render and random)
Post by: QQMBR on Mon, 24 June 2019, 09:56:58
The project is moving once again, I made a new render and more serious info like MOQ should be coming soon!
Feedback on the sets is also really important as I'd like to finalize them ASAP :D
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NEW NOVELTIES)
Post by: QQMBR on Tue, 02 July 2019, 11:46:24
Bump for new novelties  :D
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NEW NOVELTIES)
Post by: dolphincat on Mon, 16 September 2019, 21:51:36
Just left my vote in the poll, and I'm the dumbass who said there was no 6.25u bc I'm a blind boy. I love it!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NEW NOVELTIES)
Post by: modmoto on Thu, 19 September 2019, 01:00:17
uuuh love it =D
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen (NEW NOVELTIES)
Post by: Bawsky on Mon, 30 September 2019, 15:39:39
X-Files Theme

Pretty cool  :)
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: QQMBR on Sun, 05 January 2020, 14:16:53
GB is 15th Jan, pricing coming shortly :D
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: LuiKang on Sun, 05 January 2020, 15:00:04
GB is 15th Jan, pricing coming shortly :D
Yay!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: NathanielGoodtimes on Sun, 05 January 2020, 19:31:56
Loving this set!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Mon, 06 January 2020, 05:57:23
Liking the updates. One suggestion: R2 Tab key on the ortholinear kit.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: QQMBR on Mon, 06 January 2020, 10:23:32
Liking the updates. One suggestion: R2 Tab key on the ortholinear kit.

I'm guessing for the left side, so purple, right? Will add it and hope there's enough time to change, alongside widespread international support.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Mon, 06 January 2020, 16:01:35
Liking the updates. One suggestion: R2 Tab key on the ortholinear kit.

I'm guessing for the left side, so purple, right? Will add it and hope there's enough time to change, alongside widespread international support.

Left side, yes.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: Tyson on Mon, 06 January 2020, 16:26:03
Liking the updates. One suggestion: R2 Tab key on the ortholinear kit.

hope there's enough time to change

I wish there would have been more time to work on these changes instead of having the GB date be so close, I feel like there wasn't a lot of updates for a while, then bam out of no where comes this GB date that starts in 10 days. Seems super sudden to me. There's so much potential with support in KAT sets since it's all Dye Sub, I feel like more kits could be added, there's potential for them to be added before the GB but you'd be cutting the wire really close. GL with this set, I really like it, just wish there was more kits for it.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen GB 15th Jan 2020
Post by: QQMBR on Thu, 09 January 2020, 11:26:01
Liking the updates. One suggestion: R2 Tab key on the ortholinear kit.

hope there's enough time to change

I wish there would have been more time to work on these changes instead of having the GB date be so close, I feel like there wasn't a lot of updates for a while, then bam out of no where comes this GB date that starts in 10 days. Seems super sudden to me. There's so much potential with support in KAT sets since it's all Dye Sub, I feel like more kits could be added, there's potential for them to be added before the GB but you'd be cutting the wire really close. GL with this set, I really like it, just wish there was more kits for it.

Completely understand the feedback - I agree with you. The GB date was actually agreed upon some time ago. I basically only spent my little time working on the set with doing renders, that was a mistake. I was a bit out of loop with other GBs going on as well. The feedback I got from Geekhack was all from some time ago, when people didn't really realize the versatility of KAT and therefore didn't give such a strong feedback in relation to more sets, which came a tad late for me. I obviously have a lot to learn in organizing myself (rarely really had the time to focus on this due to academics) and the GB. The new sets should hopefully be officially added later this week - I sent them off couple of days  ago - when I get the new, revised quotes for new kits including full international support (North, South, French, UK Iso) plus updates to most of the current kits...

Nonetheless, I am not trying to make excuses and am kicking myself for making the process so confusing for everyone waiting for the set, to all of whom I am really thankful for for the amazing support. As a plus, the GB will be running for over a month (currently planned till around Feb 23).
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB 15th Jan + INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT, KITS UPDATED
Post by: QQMBR on Tue, 14 January 2020, 09:39:36
Kits were updated a final time, with new support for international layouts and a few slight updates to most kits.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB 15th Jan + INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT, KITS UPDATED
Post by: Cantello on Tue, 14 January 2020, 11:47:26
Any renders with TKL boards available? Especially one with the colors & numpad kit would be interesting.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB 15th Jan + INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT, KITS UPDATED
Post by: QQMBR on Tue, 14 January 2020, 15:20:04
Any renders with TKL boards available? Especially one with the colors & numpad kit would be interesting.

Sorry, I couldn't find any models for TKLs yet. Any suggestions on whom I could ask?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB 15th Jan + INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT, KITS UPDATED
Post by: Vortex_Rikers on Wed, 15 January 2020, 05:15:15
Kits were updated a final time, with new support for international layouts and a few slight updates to most kits.

Thank you ! I love the color scheme for this set so I was already really likely going to pick this up, but the inclusion of International kits makes this an instabuy from me (French layout in particular, ngl  :p) !

This is great !  ;D
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB 15th Jan + INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT, KITS UPDATED
Post by: QQMBR on Wed, 15 January 2020, 09:29:29
Kits were updated a final time, with new support for international layouts and a few slight updates to most kits.

Thank you ! I love the color scheme for this set so I was already really likely going to pick this up, but the inclusion of International kits makes this an instabuy from me (French layout in particular, ngl  :p) !

This is great !  ;D

Much love <3
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: LuiKang on Wed, 15 January 2020, 13:11:46
@QQMBR The 1.25u on R2 (the Tab key as shown in the Lynx L50 render) is left out in the final sets. Is this on purpose? That's very unfortunated.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: QQMBR on Wed, 15 January 2020, 13:40:11
@QQMBR The 1.25u on R2 (the Tab key as shown in the Lynx L50 render) is left out in the final sets. Is this on purpose? That's very unfortunated.

It hasen't been there for quite a few versions. Apparently no one (including obviously me) noticed that it went missing for some reason. All I can say is I'm sorry...
The only solution would be to change the extras so that it has the R2 1.25 Tab... but then some people don't get the keys they want. In the meantime, I'll remove the Lynx renders from the page.
Realistically... It 95% won't be there. Why I removed it I can't tell you.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: Rilow on Wed, 15 January 2020, 13:45:47
This is awesome. Pre-ordered!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: LuiKang on Wed, 15 January 2020, 14:55:29
@QQMBR The 1.25u on R2 (the Tab key as shown in the Lynx L50 render) is left out in the final sets. Is this on purpose? That's very unfortunated.

It hasen't been there for quite a few versions. Apparently no one (including obviously me) noticed that it went missing for some reason. All I can say is I'm sorry...
The only solution would be to change the extras so that it has the R2 1.25 Tab... but then some people don't get the keys they want. In the meantime, I'll remove the Lynx renders from the page.
Realistically... It 95% won't be there. Why I removed it I can't tell you.
The idea of covering the Lynx with KAT was nice. Congrats with the GB btw! I ordered mine.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: NathanielGoodtimes on Wed, 15 January 2020, 14:56:56
Ordered baby!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: rewke on Wed, 15 January 2020, 17:20:31
Picked up base + numpad&colors.  :D
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: TonyPia on Wed, 15 January 2020, 17:44:34
So do we have 6.25U spacebar or not? Seems none of the kits have 6.25U
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: eskimojo on Wed, 15 January 2020, 17:58:26
So do we have 6.25U spacebar or not? Seems none of the kits have 6.25U
6.25u is in base, it's just not marked.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: TonyPia on Wed, 15 January 2020, 18:35:25
Awesome! Will be in soon
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: TonyPia on Wed, 15 January 2020, 18:59:30
Just jumped in. When is the expected fulfillment date as of now?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: QQMBR on Wed, 15 January 2020, 23:55:11
Just jumped in. When is the expected fulfillment date as of now?

Word from zFrontier is ETA 4 months after the GB ends. So late June early July.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: worldspawn on Fri, 17 January 2020, 17:53:04
The set could use a 1.25 R3 tab and the extras kit would cover most 40% boards, also would be great for at least one of the novelties to be a 1.25 in purple.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: JeniaBR on Fri, 24 January 2020, 14:30:20
Hi,
This keycaps set looks awesome!
Can we get also a Mac layout option (cmd)? Or at least opposite colors for Alt and sys keys, so if I switch position between left Alt and left Sys it will still match the color in the diagonal?

Cheers!
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: Rilow on Sat, 08 February 2020, 06:11:05
How long does the GB run for?
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: DrHigsby on Sat, 08 February 2020, 19:55:16
How long does the GB run for?

Feb 23rd according to Kono
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: chaoskills08 on Mon, 10 February 2020, 11:12:55
Heya there! Not super related to the keycap set, but if at all possible, I think a deskmat would make this look incredibly nice. Any thought about trying that out as well? Sorry if someone else suggested this. This set is just gorgeous and I want to build a whole setup around it.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: QQMBR on Wed, 12 February 2020, 23:35:16
Heya there! Not super related to the keycap set, but if at all possible, I think a deskmat would make this look incredibly nice. Any thought about trying that out as well? Sorry if someone else suggested this. This set is just gorgeous and I want to build a whole setup around it.

Thanks for the kind words. Deskmat definitely isn't coming with this GB, if anything, then later, but after talking to some vendors we didn't find it viable, although I wanted to do one at the start.
Title: Re: [IC] KAT Specimen: GB LIVE
Post by: QQMBR on Wed, 12 February 2020, 23:37:17
Hi,
This keycaps set looks awesome!
Can we get also a Mac layout option (cmd)? Or at least opposite colors for Alt and sys keys, so if I switch position between left Alt and left Sys it will still match the color in the diagonal?

Cheers!

Can you suggest a concrete change? I don't want to make a color change that is bad for a large majority of users...