Does anyone use Hagstom Encoders anymore?

[MannyTC]

There used to be lots of talk about Hagstrom here. Especially when the KE72 and KE72-T were released. 72 inputs was the answer to everyones prayers at the time and I quickly snagged one up. Now, they are not mentioned much since the IPAC came out and now the Keywiz. Seems like they still have some good products to offer however.

The KE-USB36 USB Keyboard Encoder and Trackball Interface for $79 is a few bucks cheaper than buying an IPAC and Opti-PAC and is in a single device and has 36 inputs to boot. Yes I know it doesn't have a Shift or Shazaam button but I'm sure it would appeal to alot of people because of the greater number of inputs. Anybody try this encoder yet?

[Homebrew]

I use both the KE72 and the ME4.  I think the main reason you don't hear about them as much anymore is because they are pricey compared to an IPAC or Keywiz.  Also i think for most people, 72 inputs is just more than they'll ever need.  For me i wanted to leave myslef open with as many options as possible in future.  Ultimately i think its a an affordability thing.  IPAC is just easier on the wallet.

-Kevin

[rampy]

The other thing is that don't the hagstrom encoders (I may be wrong) use a matrix where's ipac/key wiz use more "direct" input methodologies ?

(not that one way is better than another... but just pointing that out)

rampy

[MannyTC]

Rampy, yes some of their encoders use a matrix. One of them is switchable for matrix or direct input. All the others are direct. The KE72 that I have and the newest 36 input/Trackball USB model are direct.