I actually like this layout a lot more than the standard ANSI. I love having CTRL where it's meant to be and that useless caps lock down where it belongs (away from the home row). Also the lack of wasted space next to the numpad is beautiful, and the function cluster is better than a function row too. It doesn't eve sacrifice the backspace or anything. Excellent layout imo.
I absolutely love my blue alps DC-3014. I've had it since I use to do systems administration awhile ago and it's probably my favorite in my collection.
Just picked up a complete setup of this computer (including this keyboard) at a garage sale and you gave me a better idea of what it is than my hour of research. Thanks!
I think that's because the KB-101A has an EM Radiation shield which makes the casing less roomy. I think removing them will make it sound better. I have a similar looking Costar CSK-2106A but they don't sound as good as my Northgate Omnikey 102
I had that keyboard. Bought a Model D brand new when they first shipped. Had 256k RAM. I upgraded it to 640k, one chip at a time. With that and two floppies, I was cruising. And that keyboard ruled.
I got a Leading Edge Model D back in 1986 as a HS graduation gift. I remember it had quite a long coiled keyboard cord. I could sit on the bottom bunk in my dorm with the computer on the desk and type for hours.
Love all the variation in blue alps. In my opinion this is the best sounding of them all but it has its downfalls. Looking forward to the shoot out to see what board hits the top. I'm hoping for the big dog omnikey 102 to take it home, but i might be biased. Great Video!
it's a really cool layout, would like to expand on it, my adding an extra 2 function keys and a "00, 0 and ./del" numpad layout to have a better arrow cluster on the numpad.
can you do KBDFans Aliaz switches? They are silenced tactile switches and I'm curious about your opinion of how "tactile" they really are. You are basically the only reviewer I trust anymore lol.
@@Chyrosran22 again sorry for the early comment haha. I love the sound of silenced switches but I'm on the fence about buying either Zilents (Silenced tactile Zelios), Helios (Silenced ZealPC linears, which I have heard to be INCREDIBLY smooth for traditional linear switches), or just some good ol' Kailh BOX Clickies.
I don't know if you have already done this, but could you review the Leopold FC750R PD? I think the blue and gray colour scheme is the best looking version of it.
Seems like ALPS had their fingers in a ton of different (now defunct) companies in the 80’s, but made probably the best sounding and feeling switches. That thick case lends itself to sounding heavenly but it’s sad that you can’t really replicate that anymore.
I just got a hold of one of these keyboards and it seems to work just fine with my Soarer's Converter I got from Orihalcon. Typing on it for this message in fact. Figured I'd mention that some of the keyboards might not use the reset pin or maybe newer Soarer's work with the reset pin.
Would love to see a review or switch teardown for Alps and Cherry lock switches. They seem to be making a come back lately. More people looking for them on mechmarket
I have this very.. odd keyboard, I can’t find anything on it, it’s a Packard-Bell with Alps Blues in it, and it has a PS/2 connector, no additional model numbers or anything
Comparing this to the Acer KB-101A, it sounds deeper and bassier, but it also sounds quieter, it's a good keyboard for those who want a deep sounding thunder-cannon of a keyboard, but I think that because it is deeper and quieter, it kinda fails to bring out the crystalline goodness of the SKCM Blues. Just my opinion though but it'd be a tough pick overall though.
I'd love if you could get your hands on an Alcatel Lucent 4059 to review, the switches are nothing special (MX black) but the layout, build, and features are quite interesting. I've been looking to buy one ever since I tried one in a health department building I was doing removals for, but they cost a minimum 1300 AUD which is fucking M E N T A L
I have one, had it for years. Used to have four or so, but I sold off the rest. I've been meaning to get to it, but my own boards tend to get very long to get to xD .
@@nerdyneedsalife8315 I have Navy on KBparadise V60 but they don't thock at all. too much click I don't like it. Clicky Alps switches balance the click and thick (depend on casing though)
Can anyone help me find a link to the converter he used? I've had one of these boards for a few years and would absolutely love to be able to finally use it.
I believe he mentioned that he got the converter from orihalcom, who is a reputable small electronics and vintage keyboard seller in eBbay. I highly recommend you check out his store page, I bought a ton of Alps switches from him a whille back.
You can also make your own. Their are tons of plans on geeekhack and elsewhere to use a pro micro board (which I’m guessing is the one used here) with Soarer’s firmware latest version that can convert the scan codes used on this old keyboard up to the computer. These boards are a little different, because they do use the 5volt fifth wire whereas most others do not. It really just depends on whether you have access to a soldering iron and feel comfortable using one. It’s a great feeling board though, so definitely worth the effort. If you don’t make your own, orihalcom is awesome and I definitely would recommend his kit. I’ve purchased a converter for my model m/f, and it works phenomenally well.
6:08 is as good as people call it to be. It's one of the best keyboards my fingers have ever touched. I'm bummed i don't have the screen... i have just the keyboard and the computer.
It's an interesting keyboard as the build quality of the modern ones today are shit in most cases. I'd actually like to see the return of quality over mass produce.
So, when is someone going to reproduce these first gen Alps mech switches? Given the demand they would probably make money just selling loose switches.
I love Japanese layout keyboard but there are no JIS version of a Leading Edge DC-2014. The sound is very 80s compares to other Blue Alps keyboards. I guess I'll just get a Japanese keyboard sticker and put it on the key. I tries a Costar CSK-2016A which have White Alps and JIS layout but they sound too modern and not as good. My Northgate Omnikey 102 sounds better.
The DC-3014 doesn't sound AS good as the 2014, sadly. It's good, but not as deep or rich, in my opinion. Still a very awesome keyboard to own. The flip out design design for the feet is extremely convenient. 👌😜😅
Heretic here: Even tho blue Alps are the best sounding 'clicky' switch out there, pretty much, I as a 'clicky' hater don't like then that much. I have a blue Alps NTC board and seldom use it at all.
@@Chyrosran22 I have a Chicony KB-5161 Blue alps SKCM - however this one sounds much different. Not all keyboards are equal it seems even if switch is same
@@Chyrosran22 This is why I believe Eclipse reproduction Kishsaver will not feel the same as the IBM 4704, what do you think? - I would not be surprised if the capacitive buckling springs ping differently and feel differently completely.
The best sound... holy f
I actually like this layout a lot more than the standard ANSI. I love having CTRL where it's meant to be and that useless caps lock down where it belongs (away from the home row). Also the lack of wasted space next to the numpad is beautiful, and the function cluster is better than a function row too. It doesn't eve sacrifice the backspace or anything. Excellent layout imo.
I love the xt layout for the exact same reasons as you. Wish anyone would bring this layout back
ultra based take no cap
Hey Thomas. I could really say that your intro is one of the best intros in the whole RUclips. Keep up the good work and videos, mate!
Thanks! :D
I absolutely love my blue alps DC-3014. I've had it since I use to do systems administration awhile ago and it's probably my favorite in my collection.
Just picked up a complete setup of this computer (including this keyboard) at a garage sale and you gave me a better idea of what it is than my hour of research. Thanks!
Nice, congrats! :)
Ohh that was you! I watched the item on ebay😆
I got this one about half a year ago I think xD .
@@Chyrosran22 Nooooooooo😭
I thought you made this review immediately as you really wanted typing demo. Thanks!
@@21limq no boards that I buy myself tend to take a while to get to as donations get priority xD
This sounds better than the Acer KB101-A.
And I went back to its review and tdxl just to confirm this.
I think that's because the KB-101A has an EM Radiation shield which makes the casing less roomy. I think removing them will make it sound better. I have a similar looking Costar CSK-2106A but they don't sound as good as my Northgate Omnikey 102
I own the 3014 with blue alps! I literally danced when you got the end of the video 🕺🏻💃🏽🤳🏻
I had that keyboard. Bought a Model D brand new when they first shipped. Had 256k RAM. I upgraded it to 640k, one chip at a time. With that and two floppies, I was cruising. And that keyboard ruled.
This is the second best blue alps board I've heard after the laser model m clone ones, the blues on those sound so loud and crisp.
I got a Leading Edge Model D back in 1986 as a HS graduation gift. I remember it had quite a long coiled keyboard cord. I could sit on the bottom bunk in my dorm with the computer on the desk and type for hours.
Love all the variation in blue alps. In my opinion this is the best sounding of them all but it has its downfalls. Looking forward to the shoot out to see what board hits the top. I'm hoping for the big dog omnikey 102 to take it home, but i might be biased. Great Video!
"Impressive!" - Thomas, you sounded just like the announcer in Quake 3: Arena ;) Nice review m8.
Yeah I played a lot of Q3 xD .
it's a really cool layout, would like to expand on it, my adding an extra 2 function keys and a "00, 0 and ./del" numpad layout to have a better arrow cluster on the numpad.
can you do KBDFans Aliaz switches? They are silenced tactile switches and I'm curious about your opinion of how "tactile" they really are. You are basically the only reviewer I trust anymore lol.
sorry for the comment at like 5 am I'm American.
Haha cheers mate, I haven't tried them, no, but I'd regard everything with notch tactility with suspicion ;) .
@@Chyrosran22 again sorry for the early comment haha. I love the sound of silenced switches but I'm on the fence about buying either Zilents (Silenced tactile Zelios), Helios (Silenced ZealPC linears, which I have heard to be INCREDIBLY smooth for traditional linear switches), or just some good ol' Kailh BOX Clickies.
I don't know if you have already done this, but could you review the Leopold FC750R PD?
I think the blue and gray colour scheme is the best looking version of it.
Seems like ALPS had their fingers in a ton of different (now defunct) companies in the 80’s, but made probably the best sounding and feeling switches. That thick case lends itself to sounding heavenly but it’s sad that you can’t really replicate that anymore.
What keyboard was used for the first couple of second introduction we hear every video?
My Acer KB-101A.
Sounds great actually. You really can hear that "resonance chamber" in the back.
@3:52 that looks like Japanese katakana ア. On a Korean board?
And the spacebar sounds great too! Awesome.
I just got a hold of one of these keyboards and it seems to work just fine with my Soarer's Converter I got from Orihalcon. Typing on it for this message in fact. Figured I'd mention that some of the keyboards might not use the reset pin or maybe newer Soarer's work with the reset pin.
Thank you! I just got mine and my soarers works fine, I’m glad someone else had this experience
Thank you! I just got mine and my soarers works fine, I’m glad someone else had this experience.
Would love to see a review or switch teardown for Alps and Cherry lock switches. They seem to be making a come back lately. More people looking for them on mechmarket
MX lock is one of the few switches I don't have actually!
How scratchy are they when you do off-center presses? I've been suffered from this for quite a few months. Silicon-based lube didn't do anything.
They do not bind. If your switches do this, they are in bad condition unfortunately :( .
So sad. Maybe I shouldn't put too much hope in PTFE-based ones.
I have this very.. odd keyboard, I can’t find anything on it, it’s a Packard-Bell with Alps Blues in it, and it has a PS/2 connector, no additional model numbers or anything
Miss mine. 1st computer. Had some overlays for it even.
Comparing this to the Acer KB-101A, it sounds deeper and bassier, but it also sounds quieter, it's a good keyboard for those who want a deep sounding thunder-cannon of a keyboard, but I think that because it is deeper and quieter, it kinda fails to bring out the crystalline goodness of the SKCM Blues. Just my opinion though but it'd be a tough pick overall though.
Ah that's a hot sound...
Great sounding indeed!
You should do a review on Hexgears Impulse. There are 3 choices of switches: Kailh BOX White, Kailh BOX Brown, and Hako Clears.
I'd love if you could get your hands on an Alcatel Lucent 4059 to review, the switches are nothing special (MX black) but the layout, build, and features are quite interesting. I've been looking to buy one ever since I tried one in a health department building I was doing removals for, but they cost a minimum 1300 AUD which is fucking M E N T A L
I have one, had it for years. Used to have four or so, but I sold off the rest. I've been meaning to get to it, but my own boards tend to get very long to get to xD .
@@Chyrosran22 Consider me fucking jealous, I love the look of those things.
We had a Model D with this exact keyboard when I was a kid! I'd pretend to type on it because I liked the sound so much.
Just wondering, why did the timestamps in the description stop working?
Are you on mobile? Because then timestamps won't work
Only the ones in comments work 6:32
@@gorfodemensagem4135 yup, on mobile 😅 works fine on PC
I hope to get find a blue alps keyboard someday. I looooooove the sound
Damn, is there anything that sounds better than blue alps?
Novelkeys kailhua box navy???
@@randommkeyz5029 I love navies but not even close.
Nah, nothing sounds better.
@@randommkeyz5029 they have the feel but not the sound
@@nerdyneedsalife8315 I have Navy on KBparadise V60 but they don't thock at all. too much click I don't like it. Clicky Alps switches balance the click and thick (depend on casing though)
When you said “impressive” my headphones shook
Can anyone help me find a link to the converter he used? I've had one of these boards for a few years and would absolutely love to be able to finally use it.
I believe he mentioned that he got the converter from orihalcom, who is a reputable small electronics and vintage keyboard seller in eBbay. I highly recommend you check out his store page, I bought a ton of Alps switches from him a whille back.
You can also make your own. Their are tons of plans on geeekhack and elsewhere to use a pro micro board (which I’m guessing is the one used here) with Soarer’s firmware latest version that can convert the scan codes used on this old keyboard up to the computer. These boards are a little different, because they do use the 5volt fifth wire whereas most others do not. It really just depends on whether you have access to a soldering iron and feel comfortable using one. It’s a great feeling board though, so definitely worth the effort.
If you don’t make your own, orihalcom is awesome and I definitely would recommend his kit. I’ve purchased a converter for my model m/f, and it works phenomenally well.
@@prezpolk4ever I can second that sentiment, Orihalcon is great, I've bought many converters and even a beamspring board from him
6:08 is as good as people call it to be. It's one of the best keyboards my fingers have ever touched. I'm bummed i don't have the screen... i have just the keyboard and the computer.
What keycap style do you recommend to get the most out of blue alps?
Tall, doubleshot ABS, medium-thick.
Chyrosran22 any particular board to harvest off of?
@@BKnox30 there are quite a few, but whatever board you want to put them up won't sound as good as the original ones, most likely.
Chyrosran22 Thank you for your reply. I enjoy watching your content. They offer tons of knowledge.
@@BKnox30 Thanks, glad you're enjoying the videos! :)
ook was looking forward to this one
Where did you get the converter from?
Orihalcon
It's an interesting keyboard as the build quality of the modern ones today are shit in most cases. I'd actually like to see the return of quality over mass produce.
So, when is someone going to reproduce these first gen Alps mech switches? Given the demand they would probably make money just selling loose switches.
I strongly doubt it xD .
I've been eyeing DC-2014's on ebay for weeks now, and I just can't pull the trigger
Aha so you might have been the one that snagged it off the Ebay listing a while back! glad to see it went to a good home but damnit i was so close!
This is it. This is how keyboards should sound.
Ehrmagerd won myself a DC-2014 on ebay right now. :O
That + button is probably the longest I've seen till date.
I consider it a huge plus
3 u vertical numpad plus was standard on the original XT layout, but many companies adjusted the layout slightly.
@@DenGuleBalje points xD
It should be called the droopy-ass + key
This was my first computer
When you think of how a keyboard sounds this is how it should sound
I love Japanese layout keyboard but there are no JIS version of a Leading Edge DC-2014. The sound is very 80s compares to other Blue Alps keyboards. I guess I'll just get a Japanese keyboard sticker and put it on the key. I tries a Costar CSK-2016A which have White Alps and JIS layout but they sound too modern and not as good. My Northgate Omnikey 102 sounds better.
The DC-3014 doesn't sound AS good as the 2014, sadly. It's good, but not as deep or rich, in my opinion. Still a very awesome keyboard to own. The flip out design design for the feet is extremely convenient. 👌😜😅
Very interesting! Knowing you, you have both? xD
I’m here!
Yeah, sounds better than all my blues board. I see one for ~20$ but too late. :(
Damn, this man has enough blue alps to last him through the apocalypse. STOP HOARDING ALL THE BLUE ALPS THOMAS
I've only got five, you should see some other people xD . Coul really use a sixth actually!
The Johnny Cash of keyboard reviews
"Wasn't too expensive for a DC-2014" these days == under $300
And people like the sound of click jackets. Wait till they get a load of this!
ASMR version ????
It's on the list! :D
@@Chyrosran22 Until it's ready, here's a little treat: www.infinitelooper.com/?v=sH2QmZPOM1I&p=n#/394;418
Heretic here: Even tho blue Alps are the best sounding 'clicky' switch out there, pretty much, I as a 'clicky' hater don't like then that much. I have a blue Alps NTC board and seldom use it at all.
darkholyPL I’ll buy it if u don’t want it 😄
That is your favorite switch
These ones!
@@Chyrosran22 I have a Chicony KB-5161 Blue alps SKCM - however this one sounds much different. Not all keyboards are equal it seems even if switch is same
@@zazxyz2016 No, the case, chassis and caps make a huge difference.
@@Chyrosran22 This is why I believe Eclipse reproduction Kishsaver will not feel the same as the IBM 4704, what do you think? - I would not be surprised if the capacitive buckling springs ping differently and feel differently completely.
@@zazxyz2016 I have no idea! Knowing Ellipse, it'll be quite a close repro though.
the spacebar is saying "thook"
if you get a chicony board with mitsumi minis, you have lost the switch lottery
Just bought one for 140 dollars.
the keyboard is perfect for writing a BTS FF (18-21+)
Mmmmmm
Fortnite
Oh i drive everybody crazy but i do not care. I want clicky mech keys blue is fine for me...