Through the machine

Continuing forward

Recent weeks have represented a meaningful stage of progression for Hope, with several key production milestones now completed.

Pre-production MX PCB samples were received by FSR and subjected to in-person inspection and verification. Following testing, approval was given for the remaining production run to proceed. The full MX PCB production run has since been completed, with all units successfully passing factory quality control before being packaged and dispatched to Dadesin. The custom carry cases have likewise completed production, with the remaining balance now settled in full. Following final inspection, the cases were packaged and dispatched to Dadesin.

Alongside the arrival of the MX PCBs and carry cases, screws, bumpons, and colour samples have also been received by Dadesin in preparation for colour matching and production of the enclosures, switch plates, and authentication crests.

The enclosures have now begun machining, with the switch plates and authentication crests also entering this phase, and are expected to remain within it over the course of the next month or two before progressing into surface finishing.

 

Evaluation

The first Reign prototype has now been received by FSR for in-person inspection and review.

Testing cannot commence until the PCB and gasket samples have been finalised and received. Once in hand, both aluminium and copper bottom configurations will enter evaluation. This will allow us to assess how each material shapes the acoustic character of the board, as well as its interaction with different switch plate materials and switch combinations. The copper bottom is expected to deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile, while the aluminium bottom should introduce a brighter tone with a subtle degree of resonance.

As Reign employs a gasket-mounted design, evaluation of gasket form and material will take place over the coming months. While the primary focus will be on poron gaskets, silicone alternatives will also be explored. This will allow assessment of a range of materials and hardness levels in refining the board’s intended acoustic profile. In parallel, magnets will be reviewed across a variety of finishes and strengths, ensuring both quality and functionality meet the required standard, while maintaining a consistent and refined assembly experience.

 

ContinuumA new collection

We have also begun exploring the Continuum collection, a series of in-stock keycap projects.

Initial concepts are being developed around Signature Plastics' DCS profile, with a focus on supporting both existing and future FSR keyboard layouts. These sets will be produced in small quantities and offered as in-stock releases, with each colourway manufactured only once.

Prior to committing to any final colourway, we may conduct interest checks to gather feedback and better understand community sentiment surrounding each concept. Further details will be shared as development progresses.

 

Momentum

Our thanks to those still following along. The level of engagement has been sincerely appreciated. Our Instagram page continues to grow steadily, with nearly three hundred followers gained this past month. It has been genuinely encouraging to see continued interest in our work.

 

Jack.