Sorry Taptalk completely bungled this post when it listed it. So I have edited it just to make sense, not to add anything
Lots of opinions, here are some facts.
1. With the Howler you avoid having to crimp headers for any LEDs, all you need to do is strip wires for install.(this is already done on all standard kits)
2. If you purchase off the shelf rgb joysticks, .100 headers do not need to be added for Howler installation. This means the Howler is truly crimp and strip free for full rgb (button and joystick) installations.
3. The basic board allows for a diversity of buttons or controls from different vendors, without having to install headers, through both RGB capabilities and the open source abilities.
Now pricing:
It is true that the Ipac I/O and Howler are the same price, but the I/O comes with a harness. However you need a few more parts to do the RGB install so it is a better comparison to look at the boards with the hardware for install. Please note that these kits come with all wires required for install.
Howler 4 player- 309 with free shipping in the US
IPac I/O 4 player- 120 RGB joysticks, 7.50 per led button, plus 99 dollar board, so a total of 414, plus shipping
Howler 2 player - 269 with free shipping in the US
Ipac I/O- 354 plus shipping
Both of these kits include all the wires and same controls(from different companies) required for full RGB buttons and joysticks.
I have no interest in a flame war, what is listed is very simply my understanding of what is publicly available. If I have made a mistake, pm me and I will edit appropriately.
I did do a pricing comparison directly, because it has not been done.
I have an obvious interest in the Howler and I do understand Josh's frustration as I have dealt with similar scenarios. However I do not have any issues with Andy and have no desire to have any issues with him.
We need to, as a community, support efforts like Josh's that essentially force the market to step forward. But when that step is forced, its only a matter of time before the others step forward to meet it. I am sure others will follow soon.
So lets keep it positive, support the guys like that bring us new ideas, Aaron, Josh, Kevin, Andy, and many more, yes I will even include Randy, and remember that the guy with the next innovation may be watching (actually he's the guy writing this post
) and we don't want to create an environment that discourages people from contributing.