Why I Love Prototype Runs and Helping Keyboard Designers
The Migra TKL Prototype by Thebloodyez “This is my keyboard. There are many like it, but this one is mine.” - William H. Rupertus. In another life, if Major General William H. Rupertus, the Marine who coined the United States Marine Creed, had been a keyboard enthusiast, we might've gotten this line instead. All joking aside, this has been an article that I’ve wanted to write for quite some time. There are many reasons why we love the keyboard hobby, and today, I wanted to introduce you to one of mine—prototype keyboards and helping keyboard designers by joining prototype runs. Now, it’s not risk-free, and one should weigh the pros and cons of joining a prototype run, so I encourage you to pay attention to the disclaimer portion of this article. I know that there are prototype runs for keycaps, switches, and other cool things in our keyboard hobby, but for this article, I’ll be focusing only on keyboards. Also, please know that not every prototype run will be handled...
Dec 31, 2024
Applying the App We know how important it is to have full, customizable control over your keymappings and lighting options. That's why we’ve built a Windows- and Mac-compatible configurator application for the SENSE75—complete with an easy-to-use interface that lets you quickly customize your keys and lighting. Future versions of the application will allow you to share your creations as well. Stating Our Case(s) Adding to the SENSE75’s luxurious sensory experience is a gorgeous case made from CNC-machined, aircraft-grade aluminum. The exceptional build quality is apparent, even from the closest angles. Inspect the precision-chamfered edges, and you’ll be hard pressed to find a sharp corner anywhere on this keyboard. For those looking for something brighter than our standard Nightfall version, we’re releasing a special edition of the SENSE75 finished with a white electrophoretic coating. This process, commonly used in fine jewelry, creates a stunning clean white look while building on the natural metallic luster of the aluminum case.
Turning the Knob When designing the SENSE75, it’s safe to say we left no knob unturned. Listening to community input, we knew our newest board would come equipped with a knob—and we took our time choosing the right one. We carefully analyzed over twenty different rotary encoders and debated the merits of each color, material, and finish. We settled on an aluminum knob with mountain knurling. This knurling pattern creates a very high-grip finish that requires a minimal amount of torque to spin. This is paired with the premium alps encoder that provides precision and a satisfying click as it rotates through each detent.