Eschew

Wait does mine count?

Parrot gang was fine. I only recall having to ask one member to tune it back since their PFP was essentially a strobe light gif. 

In reality, it's not much different than when users put santa hats on their profile photos in December. 

Always

EVGA cards were the only cards I always preferred.... I'm not sure who I'd go to after this

I cant stop laughing at this 😂😂😂
 
But also no 😈

’Chew’s Keycap Sets!
(Left to Right, Top to Bottom)
 
KAT Alpha Blank Keycap Set
/dev/tty MT3 Keycap Set
OEM Fog White Keycap Set
POM Ink Keycap Set ()
SA Classic Dolch Doubleshot PBT Keycap Set ()
Classic Dye-Sublimation Keycap Set (Cherry Profile, )
XDA Gentleman Blank Keycap Set
EnjoyPBT Blank Black PBT Keycaps (Cherry Profile, In Use: K-4398)
 
Personally, would recommend these containers to save on storage space. Keycaps will be loose, but legended keycaps are easily identifiable, and blank keycaps can be sorted by rows.
 

Generic Plastic Container
Dimensions: 11.81" × 7.87" × 2.36"
As far as I can tell, these containers are identical to Kinetic Labs’s Keycap Containers, sans the branding.
Kinetic Labs: $10.99 (1 pk), $19.99 (2 pk) | MaxGaming: €17.89 (1 pk) | Amazon: $9.99 (1 pk)

 
Alternative Container Options
JTK Polycarbonate Keycap Tray (Various Vendors): Storage option that displays keycap sets side-by-side. Short height profile, but long length and width profile. Popular among keeb vendors, but often back-ordered or only available by pre-orders. Generic Keycap Tray (Amazon): Storage option that displays keycap sets side-by-side. Short height profile, but long length and width profile. A more accessible option (for Amazon US), if JTK keycap trays aren’t available.  
Notes
Cherry, OEM, XDA, DSA, etc. profiles should be compatible with most aftermarket keycap trays. OEM profiles may not be compatible wtih trays specifically designed for GMK keycaps / Cherry profiles. SA profiles will need trays that are at least 16.5 mm in depth.

Hoshī Update - vBIOS Update
As I understand it, when it comes to vBIOS and flashing, the mantra is, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
 
[Proceeds to flash vBIOS.]
 
Someone: Is the graphics card broke?
’Chew: Neu*.
Someone: So, why?
’Chew: Yes. 
 

 
Flashing the vBIOS
Specific for the ASRock AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT Challenger D, and written for Future 'Chew’s reference. Doubt that ASRock will pop out an updated vBIOS for this card in the future, but eh. 
 
Resources
RX 5600 XT Challenger D vBIOS Downloads from ASRock Flashing Tutorial RX 5600 XT Driver Downloads from AMD Backup vBIOS: ASRock RX 5600 XT VGA BIOS Collection from TechPowerUp  
vBIOS Versions
113-EXT900162-L05: L05 vBIOS (Stock) 113-EXT900170-L07: L07 vBIOS 113-EXT40650-001: L08 vBIOS  
Checking the vBIOS Version
 
vBIOS Flashing Tutorial
Download and extract the latest vBIOS and AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition to their respective, separate folders. Restart the PC. On startup, check that AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition is running. From the vBIOS folder, run Update.cmd to update the vBIOS. Updating should take 5 - 10 min. SUCCESS: Restart System To Complete VBIOS Update. should appear with a successful update.
Restart the PC. From the AMD folder, run Setup.exe to reinstall AMD drivers. PC should undergo two restarts before drivers have been successfully reinstalled.  

 
Successful Flashing

AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition
Apparently the L08 vBIOS brings with it an upgraded a 14 Gbps memory clock / bit rate (stock was 12 Gbps). Also higher power limit and GPU adjustment range?
Oh... vBIOS info shows up here too.
 
Awesome.
I have no idea what that those numbers mean or how they apply to my use case. 🤣
But I’m happy the flashing worked and didn’t brick my card? 
Not my first time flashing the card, but I didn’t realize I hadn’t written anything about it up 'til now.
 
If vBIOS flashing solves the sporadic and unpredictable driver timeouts I’ve been getting (doubt it), all the better. If it doesn’t... Well, those graphics cards I’ve been window shopping are looking mighty enticing. 

it

K-4398 Update - POM POM POM
So... I have a one-track brain...? 
 

New Stuff!
1 × POM Ink Keycap Set
1 × POM Mounting Plate
1 × POM Wonderful Pomegranate Juice
 
 POM caps and POM plate were from Den! 😍
 

Custom POM Plate by Green Door Geeks!

It is B L A C K.
And PERFECTLY CUT!
Lotsa scratches / heat marks, which I’m told is the norm for custom-cut POM plates. 
 

4398 Keyboard Polycarbonate Plate + Custom POM Plate
This thing is shiiiny.
Shiny = Fingerprint Magnet.
[Slaps on gloves.]
 

4398 Keyboard POM Plate + Polycarbonate Plate
Role reversal, kek.
 

K-4398 + Switches

IT LOOKS WAY BETTER IN PERSON.
 

Spacebar Foam
Squidgy. 
Also from Den! 
 

K-4398 + Keycaps
POM Plate + Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) + POM Ink Keycaps
I have a one-track brain okei, pls no bully lol.
 

4398 Keyboard + POM Ink Keycaps - Close Up
 OEM profile, best profile. 
Also, my photos and lighting are garbo, but the color match is freaking .
 

 
Sound Samples
Sound samples recorded with the Antlion Mod Mic and Audacity.
 
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Fast)

K-4398, POM (Fast).mp3    
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Slow)

K-4398, POM (Slow).mp3    

 
Comments
First time tasting POM Wonderful Pomegranate Juice, though I’ve seen it around n’ about. Very dark in color (don’t spill on whites ), and very tart. Starts to smell more unpleasant the longer it’s left out in the air, but tastes fine (IMO). I’d... eh, still prefer good ol’ pulpy orange juice over pomegranate juice, lol.
 
Apparently POM Wonderful is a Cali brand, neato.
 
What?
Keyboards?
 
No, no more keyboards, this is endgame. End Game. エンド・ゲイム.
E-N-D G-A-M-E.
Please be endgame. 😂
 
Tho, I mean “endgame” with the best possible connotation, 'cos this build / recent update actually includes one of my personally most sought after item(s): the POM Ink keycap set. As far as I’m aware, they’re only available from ESC Keyboards, based in Australia. The price tag is whatever, but sweet mother of damn that shipping fee.
 
I’ve sent polite emails to a handful of regional vendors with my interest in the POM Inks, but no one in the U.S. seems keen on stocking them. It is what it is, I guess. 
 
Then somehow one thing led to another and POM Inks arrived on my doorstep. 
Thaaaaaaaaaank yooooooooou Dennnnnnnnn! 
 
Saying that I’m incredibly happy with the K-4398 would be an incredible understatement. I don’t think I’ve derived this much satisfaction from a keeb build, not even after Eighty #391.
 

Current Desk Setup
Don’t say it’s the same picture, it’s not the same picture damn it. 🤣
Look at those keycaps.
 
It’s silent, it’s color coordinated, it’s heavy enough to cave someone’s skull in (probably?).
Its layout feels comfortable and natural to my fingers, and in the event it’s not, it’s fixable with a quick hop into VIA.
 
It is -- currently, at least -- everything I want from a keeb. 🥰
Let this be endgaaaaaaaaame, please lmaooo. 
Absolutely do not come up with a full-sized, southpaw, QMK-compatible keeb.

’Chew’s Keycap Sets!
(Left to Right, Top to Bottom)
 
KAT Alpha Blank Keycap Set
/dev/tty MT3 Keycap Set
OEM Fog White Keycap Set
POM Ink Keycap Set ()
SA Classic Dolch Doubleshot PBT Keycap Set ()
Classic Dye-Sublimation Keycap Set (Cherry Profile, )
XDA Gentleman Blank Keycap Set
EnjoyPBT Blank Black PBT Keycaps (Cherry Profile, In Use: K-4398)
 
Personally, would recommend these containers to save on storage space. Keycaps will be loose, but legended keycaps are easily identifiable, and blank keycaps can be sorted by rows.
 

Generic Plastic Container
Dimensions: 11.81" × 7.87" × 2.36"
As far as I can tell, these containers are identical to Kinetic Labs’s Keycap Containers, sans the branding.
Kinetic Labs: $10.99 (1 pk), $19.99 (2 pk) | MaxGaming: €17.89 (1 pk) | Amazon: $9.99 (1 pk)

 
Alternative Container Options
JTK Polycarbonate Keycap Tray (Various Vendors): Storage option that displays keycap sets side-by-side. Short height profile, but long length and width profile. Popular among keeb vendors, but often back-ordered or only available by pre-orders. Generic Keycap Tray (Amazon): Storage option that displays keycap sets side-by-side. Short height profile, but long length and width profile. A more accessible option (for Amazon US), if JTK keycap trays aren’t available.  
Notes
Cherry, OEM, XDA, DSA, etc. profiles should be compatible with most aftermarket keycap trays. OEM profiles may not be compatible wtih trays specifically designed for GMK keycaps / Cherry profiles. SA profiles will need trays that are at least 16.5 mm in depth.

K-4398 Update - Remapping via VIA
VIA is an application / program that lets users remap keys, toggle between layouts, add macros, and control lighting for supported QMK-compatible keyboards.
VIA has a simple GUI and is intuitive to use for anyone that isn’t familiar with (or is daunted by) QMK MSYS, QMK Toolbox, and the process of flashing a keyboard. Any edits made in VIA will be immediately applied to the keyboard in use. As a tradeoff, VIA’s capabilities aren’t as extensive, compared to customizing keymaps with QMK. For instance (IIRC), VIA is limited to 9 layers, while QMK will work with up to 16. Not all QMK-compatible keyboards are supported by VIA. Supported keyboards are listed on VIA’s site (Supported Keyboards). For layout .JSON files, VIA’s .JSON files are not compatible with QMK Configurator’s .JSON files, and vice versa. Keymap .JSON files may be compatible between VIA and QMK Configurator – with some manual editing – but I haven’t tested this theory. VIA Website: https://www.caniusevia.com/
VIA Github: https://github.com/the-via VIA Releases: https://github.com/the-via/releases  
VIA Tutorial / Step-by-Step
Download and install VIA from the-via/releases. VIA has an online configurator, but I couldn’t use it with the 4398 Keyboard. I suspect that only keyboards listed on the Supported Keyboards list will work with that configurator. Launch VIA (VIA.exe). Default file directory is C:\Users\...\AppData\Local\Programs\via. Import the keyboard’s .JSON layout file via File > Import Keymap. Start remapping keys to your liking. Changes are applied immediately. MO(1): Toggles between layers. Simply exit VIA when finished, no saving necessary. Save + Load: Options here will save and load .JSON keymap files specifically for the current layout. Attempting to File > Import Keymap .JSON keymap files will not work. Import the keyboard’s .JSON layout file via File > Import Keymap. Load the keyboard’s .JSON keymap file via the Save + Load tab.  
 
Remapping K-4398
Initially, I couldn’t find the 4398 Keyboard’s QMK files / VIA files. It was clearly advertised as QMK / VIA compatible, but curiously wasn’t listed on either QMK Firmware’s All Supported Keyboards or VIA’s Supported Keyboards lists.
 
So I asked for help in qwertypop’s Discord server, aaand...
I GOT THE GOODS.
Download: 43_980.json Very thankful for qwertypop’s responsive team! 
The alternative was to install AutoHotkey but I *really* didn't want to have that running in the background all the time.
 

4398 Keyboard - Default Keymap (Layer 0)
A pretty conventional layout, with some problematic placements in the top-right.
Why is Delete and Home up there.
Scroll Lock and Pause are useless, please.
Excuse me, where is my End key?
 

K-4398 - Edited Keymap (Layer 0)
Much more to my liking and use case.
Customization is such a blessing. 
 

K-4398 - Default Keymap (Layer 1)
Nothing immediately offensive on this layer, so I’ll leave it be. 
Psych, made some slight edits to Layer 1.
 

K-4398 - Edited Keymap (Layer 1)
Honestly I don’t use Insert, Pg Up, or Pg Dn often, but sometimes games (looking at you, Dragon’s Dogma) insist on using these keybinds. 😫

MGK64 - More Silent Linears!
The prelude to the main event. 👀
 

Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) + Modded Silent Oil King Switches (210g)
Both Switches: Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems + SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g)
POM Switches: POM Top Housing, POM Bottom Housing
Oil King Switches: Nylon PA66 Top Housing + Gateron Ink Bottom Housing
 

 
MGK64 - Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Fast)

Modded POM, 210g (Fast).mp3    
MGK64 - Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Slow)

Modded POM, 210g (Slow).mp3    
MGK64 - Modded Silent Oil King Switches (210g) (Fast)

Modded Oil King, 210g (Fast).mp3    
MGK64 - Modded Silent Oil King Switches (210g) (Slow)

Modded Oil King, 210g (Slow).mp3    

 
With Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems
Acoustically, I can’t tell the difference between the Modded Silent POM Switch and the Modded Silent Oil King Switch. The 210g spring kinda... normalizes the playing field. 🤣
 
In terms of feel, Modded Oil King Switches were smoother than the Modded Silent POM Switches, even when the latter was lubed. The difference was quite marginal, however.
 
With Gateron Silent Ink Black Stems
I did also try Durock POM Switch + Gateron Silent Ink Black Stem, and... immediately regretted it. The result was the scratchiest switch I have ever touched. No amount of lube can save that combination. 😂
 
Gateron Oil King Switch + Gateron Silent Ink Black Stem was more acceptable to my standards. Not nearly as smooth as the Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stem, but not excruciatingly terrible. Could benefit from lubing.

Introduction
Hey there! Welcome to another build log. 😁
 
Took a peep at my Eighty #391 Build Log, and I’m realizing my tastes have expanded, but haven’t changed much over the years. 
 
'Chew's Keeb Interests
Sizes, Layouts: TKL, 90%, Alice (with F-Row) Non-Negotiable: ANSI, Function Row, Special / Edit Keys Case: Metallic Construction, High-Profile, Angled, Matte Black Plate: Black / Frosted / Transparent PCB: Hotswap, QMK / VIA Compatibility, Black Switches: Linear, Silent Stems, 150g Springs Non-Negotiable: Black Housings Stabilizers: Black Keycaps: Blank, PBT, OEM-Profile, Matte Black Acoustics: Silent, Thock / Clack TLDR: Black Aesthetic, Heavy Silent Linear Switches.
 
qwertypop happened to advertise the 4398 Keyboards they had in stock on Mech Group Buy’s Discord, and I happened to be paying attention, and the 4398 Keyboard happened to check off my preferences.
Fast forward a few days later, aaand it’s in my hands!
 

43 Studio - 4398 Keyboard Package
I pity the fool that misses the in stock listing and Group Buys it later. 
 
Name
黒-4398 ⇒ くろ-4398 ⇒ Kuro-4398 ⇒ K-4398
(黒 = Black)
 
Couldn’t think of any clever, meaningful wordplay with “98,” so I kept it simple.
[Begrudgingly puts away list of 'Chewnibyō chūnibyō names.]
 
 
Parts List
Component Selection Price PCB 4398 Keyboard Hotswap PCB
- Poron Switch Pads
- Stabilizer Foam Pads
≈ $345.00
$2.00
Case 4398 Keyboard Case (Anodized Aluminum, Black)   Mounting Plate Custom 4398 Keyboard POM Mounting Plate
4398 Keyboard Polycarbonate Mounting Plate
Switches Modded Silent POM Switches (210g)
- Durock POM Switch Housings
- Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems
- SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g)
- Krytox 205g0 Lubricant
$72.36
$23.25
$13.50
Stabilizers Durock Screw-In Stabilizers (V2) $25.00 Keycaps POM Ink Keycaps
- Spacebar Foam
EnjoyPBT Blank Black PBT Cherry-Profile Keycaps

$39.00
Cable CableMod Custom Pro Coiled Cable
- Dual-Sleeved (Black ModMesh Nylon, Black ModFlex Paracord)
- GX16 Aviator Connector (5-Pin)
- Cerakote Coating (USB-C, USB-A, Aviator QDC)
        Grand Total ≈ $520.11   (Shipping, Taxes, Foreign Transaction Fees Excluded)    
Parts Update History
 
 
Assembly
 

4398 Keyboard Kit
 
Keyboard Kit Parts
1 × 4398 Keyboard Top Case + Bottom Case / Weight 1 × 4398 Keyboard PCB 1 × Poron Foam (3.5mm) 120 × PE Foam Switch Pads 1 × Winkey Blocker 3 × Black Keyboard Accents 3 × Frosted Keyboard Accents 1 × 7U Stabilizer Wire Screws, Bumpons, Etc.  
Other Essentials (Separate Purchases)
1 × 7U Stabilizer, 6 × 2U Stabilizers 102 Switches (ANSI Layout) 102 Keycaps (ANSI Layout) USB Type-C Cable  

PCB + Switch Pads + Stabilizers
Don’t look at the up arrow key.
Now you can never unsee it. 
 

Assembled PCB + Poron Foam + Mounting Plate
Instantly sold on plastic mounting plates.
For one, they don’t attract fingerprints as much as polished metal does. 😆
 

Assembled PCB / Foam / Plate + Switches
Keyboard Checker time!
Branded cable (temporary setup) came from erm, a Razer Zephyr mask that I got for free. 😂
 

Assembled PCB / Foam / Plate + Top Case
4 × Tiny Hex Screws to mount the plate to the top case.
Mounting feels easier and more secure compared to Eighty #391. 👀💦
 

K-4398 - Bottom Weight / Case
8 × Tiny Hex Screws to secure the bottom weight to the top case.
 

K-4398 + Modded Silent POM Switches (210g)
I’ll be honest, bottoming out is really difficult now. 🤣
Oh, and the spacebar is actually 180g because I didn’t have enough 210g springs. 🥲
 

K-4398 - Assembled!
First order of business:
Disable LEDs. 😂
 

Monkeytype

 
 
Sound Samples
Sound samples recorded with the Antlion Mod Mic and Audacity.
 
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Fast)

K-4398 (Fast).mp3  
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Slow)

K-4398 (Slow).mp3  
 
Closing Comments
It’s been a very long while since I’ve been excited about custom keebs again. Day in, day out, it feels like I’m staring at samey listings by vendors offering similar inventories. And if something’s locked behind a Group Buy, my interest falls off exponentially rapidly.
 
The easiest way to rope me into another keeb purchase?
In stock and immediate shipping.
Also, have someone competent designing the keeb, lol.
 
Even better if it’s limited in quantity. Mmm yaaaaaaaaaas, give me that intangible and trivial sense of self-worth that comes from possessing something that the greater majority does not or can not have. 
 

Current Desk Setup
 
The plan for K-4398 was to deck it out as much as my patience allowed:
Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems: Transferred all of these over from Eighty #391 to the new build, since I’ve grown incredibly fond of them. Oddly enough, I had 102 stems -- exactly enough to outfit K-4398 (ANSI layout). SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g, 180g): Finally acquired these. Only for the truly cultured and masochistic, kek. Switch Pads + Stabilizer Pads: Uncertain how significant of an effect the pads have on the 4398 Keyboard’s typing / acoustic experience, but it’s a cheap addition and doesn’t detract from the keeb, so why not?  Stabilizers: Stabilizer rattle was, admittedly, one of the problem areas with the Eighty #391 that I never got around to fixing. Made it a point to tune K-4398’s stabs to my liking this time. Durock POM Switches: There’s a theme I’m going for here, the rest of the pieces haven’t reached my hands juuust yet. 👀  
Now.
To clean up my desk area. 
Also, at some point, gotta fiddle around with QMK / VIA, because Scroll Lock, Pause, and Num Lock are useless to me.
 
Why does perfecting something have to take so loooooooooong, I just wanna play gaaaaaaaaaames. 😫
 
 

It's so that schew's forehead flick can be lethal

Introduction
Hey there! Welcome to another build log. 😁
 
Took a peep at my Eighty #391 Build Log, and I’m realizing my tastes have expanded, but haven’t changed much over the years. 
 
'Chew's Keeb Interests
Sizes, Layouts: TKL, 90%, Alice (with F-Row) Non-Negotiable: ANSI, Function Row, Special / Edit Keys Case: Metallic Construction, High-Profile, Angled, Matte Black Plate: Black / Frosted / Transparent PCB: Hotswap, QMK / VIA Compatibility, Black Switches: Linear, Silent Stems, 150g Springs Non-Negotiable: Black Housings Stabilizers: Black Keycaps: Blank, PBT, OEM-Profile, Matte Black Acoustics: Silent, Thock / Clack TLDR: Black Aesthetic, Heavy Silent Linear Switches.
 
qwertypop happened to advertise the 4398 Keyboards they had in stock on Mech Group Buy’s Discord, and I happened to be paying attention, and the 4398 Keyboard happened to check off my preferences.
Fast forward a few days later, aaand it’s in my hands!
 

43 Studio - 4398 Keyboard Package
I pity the fool that misses the in stock listing and Group Buys it later. 
 
Name
黒-4398 ⇒ くろ-4398 ⇒ Kuro-4398 ⇒ K-4398
(黒 = Black)
 
Couldn’t think of any clever, meaningful wordplay with “98,” so I kept it simple.
[Begrudgingly puts away list of 'Chewnibyō chūnibyō names.]
 
 
Parts List
Component Selection Price PCB 4398 Keyboard Hotswap PCB
- Poron Switch Pads
- Stabilizer Foam Pads
≈ $345.00
$2.00
Case 4398 Keyboard Case (Anodized Aluminum, Black)   Mounting Plate Custom 4398 Keyboard POM Mounting Plate
4398 Keyboard Polycarbonate Mounting Plate
Switches Modded Silent POM Switches (210g)
- Durock POM Switch Housings
- Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems
- SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g)
- Krytox 205g0 Lubricant
$72.36
$23.25
$13.50
Stabilizers Durock Screw-In Stabilizers (V2) $25.00 Keycaps POM Ink Keycaps
- Spacebar Foam
EnjoyPBT Blank Black PBT Cherry-Profile Keycaps

$39.00
Cable CableMod Custom Pro Coiled Cable
- Dual-Sleeved (Black ModMesh Nylon, Black ModFlex Paracord)
- GX16 Aviator Connector (5-Pin)
- Cerakote Coating (USB-C, USB-A, Aviator QDC)
        Grand Total ≈ $520.11   (Shipping, Taxes, Foreign Transaction Fees Excluded)    
Parts Update History
 
 
Assembly
 

4398 Keyboard Kit
 
Keyboard Kit Parts
1 × 4398 Keyboard Top Case + Bottom Case / Weight 1 × 4398 Keyboard PCB 1 × Poron Foam (3.5mm) 120 × PE Foam Switch Pads 1 × Winkey Blocker 3 × Black Keyboard Accents 3 × Frosted Keyboard Accents 1 × 7U Stabilizer Wire Screws, Bumpons, Etc.  
Other Essentials (Separate Purchases)
1 × 7U Stabilizer, 6 × 2U Stabilizers 102 Switches (ANSI Layout) 102 Keycaps (ANSI Layout) USB Type-C Cable  

PCB + Switch Pads + Stabilizers
Don’t look at the up arrow key.
Now you can never unsee it. 
 

Assembled PCB + Poron Foam + Mounting Plate
Instantly sold on plastic mounting plates.
For one, they don’t attract fingerprints as much as polished metal does. 😆
 

Assembled PCB / Foam / Plate + Switches
Keyboard Checker time!
Branded cable (temporary setup) came from erm, a Razer Zephyr mask that I got for free. 😂
 

Assembled PCB / Foam / Plate + Top Case
4 × Tiny Hex Screws to mount the plate to the top case.
Mounting feels easier and more secure compared to Eighty #391. 👀💦
 

K-4398 - Bottom Weight / Case
8 × Tiny Hex Screws to secure the bottom weight to the top case.
 

K-4398 + Modded Silent POM Switches (210g)
I’ll be honest, bottoming out is really difficult now. 🤣
Oh, and the spacebar is actually 180g because I didn’t have enough 210g springs. 🥲
 

K-4398 - Assembled!
First order of business:
Disable LEDs. 😂
 

Monkeytype

 
 
Sound Samples
Sound samples recorded with the Antlion Mod Mic and Audacity.
 
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Fast)

K-4398 (Fast).mp3  
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Slow)

K-4398 (Slow).mp3  
 
Closing Comments
It’s been a very long while since I’ve been excited about custom keebs again. Day in, day out, it feels like I’m staring at samey listings by vendors offering similar inventories. And if something’s locked behind a Group Buy, my interest falls off exponentially rapidly.
 
The easiest way to rope me into another keeb purchase?
In stock and immediate shipping.
Also, have someone competent designing the keeb, lol.
 
Even better if it’s limited in quantity. Mmm yaaaaaaaaaas, give me that intangible and trivial sense of self-worth that comes from possessing something that the greater majority does not or can not have. 
 

Current Desk Setup
 
The plan for K-4398 was to deck it out as much as my patience allowed:
Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems: Transferred all of these over from Eighty #391 to the new build, since I’ve grown incredibly fond of them. Oddly enough, I had 102 stems -- exactly enough to outfit K-4398 (ANSI layout). SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g, 180g): Finally acquired these. Only for the truly cultured and masochistic, kek. Switch Pads + Stabilizer Pads: Uncertain how significant of an effect the pads have on the 4398 Keyboard’s typing / acoustic experience, but it’s a cheap addition and doesn’t detract from the keeb, so why not?  Stabilizers: Stabilizer rattle was, admittedly, one of the problem areas with the Eighty #391 that I never got around to fixing. Made it a point to tune K-4398’s stabs to my liking this time. Durock POM Switches: There’s a theme I’m going for here, the rest of the pieces haven’t reached my hands juuust yet. 👀  
Now.
To clean up my desk area. 
Also, at some point, gotta fiddle around with QMK / VIA, because Scroll Lock, Pause, and Num Lock are useless to me.
 
Why does perfecting something have to take so loooooooooong, I just wanna play gaaaaaaaaaames. 😫
 
 

Introduction
Hey there! Welcome to another build log. 😁
 
Took a peep at my Eighty #391 Build Log, and I’m realizing my tastes have expanded, but haven’t changed much over the years. 
 
'Chew's Keeb Interests
Sizes, Layouts: TKL, 90%, Alice (with F-Row) Non-Negotiable: ANSI, Function Row, Special / Edit Keys Case: Metallic Construction, High-Profile, Angled, Matte Black Plate: Black / Frosted / Transparent PCB: Hotswap, QMK / VIA Compatibility, Black Switches: Linear, Silent Stems, 150g Springs Non-Negotiable: Black Housings Stabilizers: Black Keycaps: Blank, PBT, OEM-Profile, Matte Black Acoustics: Silent, Thock / Clack TLDR: Black Aesthetic, Heavy Silent Linear Switches.
 
qwertypop happened to advertise the 4398 Keyboards they had in stock on Mech Group Buy’s Discord, and I happened to be paying attention, and the 4398 Keyboard happened to check off my preferences.
Fast forward a few days later, aaand it’s in my hands!
 

43 Studio - 4398 Keyboard Package
I pity the fool that misses the in stock listing and Group Buys it later. 
 
Name
黒-4398 ⇒ くろ-4398 ⇒ Kuro-4398 ⇒ K-4398
(黒 = Black)
 
Couldn’t think of any clever, meaningful wordplay with “98,” so I kept it simple.
[Begrudgingly puts away list of 'Chewnibyō chūnibyō names.]
 
 
Parts List
Component Selection Price PCB 4398 Keyboard Hotswap PCB
- Poron Switch Pads
- Stabilizer Foam Pads
≈ $345.00
$2.00
Case 4398 Keyboard Case (Anodized Aluminum, Black)   Mounting Plate Custom 4398 Keyboard POM Mounting Plate
4398 Keyboard Polycarbonate Mounting Plate
Switches Modded Silent POM Switches (210g)
- Durock POM Switch Housings
- Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems
- SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g)
- Krytox 205g0 Lubricant
$72.36
$23.25
$13.50
Stabilizers Durock Screw-In Stabilizers (V2) $25.00 Keycaps POM Ink Keycaps
- Spacebar Foam
EnjoyPBT Blank Black PBT Cherry-Profile Keycaps

$39.00
Cable CableMod Custom Pro Coiled Cable
- Dual-Sleeved (Black ModMesh Nylon, Black ModFlex Paracord)
- GX16 Aviator Connector (5-Pin)
- Cerakote Coating (USB-C, USB-A, Aviator QDC)
        Grand Total ≈ $520.11   (Shipping, Taxes, Foreign Transaction Fees Excluded)    
Parts Update History
 
 
Assembly
 

4398 Keyboard Kit
 
Keyboard Kit Parts
1 × 4398 Keyboard Top Case + Bottom Case / Weight 1 × 4398 Keyboard PCB 1 × Poron Foam (3.5mm) 120 × PE Foam Switch Pads 1 × Winkey Blocker 3 × Black Keyboard Accents 3 × Frosted Keyboard Accents 1 × 7U Stabilizer Wire Screws, Bumpons, Etc.  
Other Essentials (Separate Purchases)
1 × 7U Stabilizer, 6 × 2U Stabilizers 102 Switches (ANSI Layout) 102 Keycaps (ANSI Layout) USB Type-C Cable  

PCB + Switch Pads + Stabilizers
Don’t look at the up arrow key.
Now you can never unsee it. 
 

Assembled PCB + Poron Foam + Mounting Plate
Instantly sold on plastic mounting plates.
For one, they don’t attract fingerprints as much as polished metal does. 😆
 

Assembled PCB / Foam / Plate + Switches
Keyboard Checker time!
Branded cable (temporary setup) came from erm, a Razer Zephyr mask that I got for free. 😂
 

Assembled PCB / Foam / Plate + Top Case
4 × Tiny Hex Screws to mount the plate to the top case.
Mounting feels easier and more secure compared to Eighty #391. 👀💦
 

K-4398 - Bottom Weight / Case
8 × Tiny Hex Screws to secure the bottom weight to the top case.
 

K-4398 + Modded Silent POM Switches (210g)
I’ll be honest, bottoming out is really difficult now. 🤣
Oh, and the spacebar is actually 180g because I didn’t have enough 210g springs. 🥲
 

K-4398 - Assembled!
First order of business:
Disable LEDs. 😂
 

Monkeytype

 
 
Sound Samples
Sound samples recorded with the Antlion Mod Mic and Audacity.
 
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Fast)

K-4398 (Fast).mp3  
Modded Silent POM Switches (210g) (Slow)

K-4398 (Slow).mp3  
 
Closing Comments
It’s been a very long while since I’ve been excited about custom keebs again. Day in, day out, it feels like I’m staring at samey listings by vendors offering similar inventories. And if something’s locked behind a Group Buy, my interest falls off exponentially rapidly.
 
The easiest way to rope me into another keeb purchase?
In stock and immediate shipping.
Also, have someone competent designing the keeb, lol.
 
Even better if it’s limited in quantity. Mmm yaaaaaaaaaas, give me that intangible and trivial sense of self-worth that comes from possessing something that the greater majority does not or can not have. 
 

Current Desk Setup
 
The plan for K-4398 was to deck it out as much as my patience allowed:
Gazzew / Outemu Silent Linear Stems: Transferred all of these over from Eighty #391 to the new build, since I’ve grown incredibly fond of them. Oddly enough, I had 102 stems -- exactly enough to outfit K-4398 (ANSI layout). SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g, 180g): Finally acquired these. Only for the truly cultured and masochistic, kek. Switch Pads + Stabilizer Pads: Uncertain how significant of an effect the pads have on the 4398 Keyboard’s typing / acoustic experience, but it’s a cheap addition and doesn’t detract from the keeb, so why not?  Stabilizers: Stabilizer rattle was, admittedly, one of the problem areas with the Eighty #391 that I never got around to fixing. Made it a point to tune K-4398’s stabs to my liking this time. Durock POM Switches: There’s a theme I’m going for here, the rest of the pieces haven’t reached my hands juuust yet. 👀  
Now.
To clean up my desk area. 
Also, at some point, gotta fiddle around with QMK / VIA, because Scroll Lock, Pause, and Num Lock are useless to me.
 
Why does perfecting something have to take so loooooooooong, I just wanna play gaaaaaaaaaames. 😫
 
 

Stuff's arrived! 😁
 

 Switches n' Stuff! 
108 × Durock POM Switches
108 × Gateron Oil King Switches
100 × SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g)
100 × SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (180g)
Durock V2 Screw-In Stabilizers
20 × KBDfans Stabilizer Foam Pads
 
 Forgot to Photograph 
240 × Deskeys Switch Films
Generic 205g0 Lubricant (3 mL)
 

Durock POM Switch + Gateron Oil King Switch
Durock POM = POM Top Housing + POM Bottom Housing + ??? Stem
Gateron Oil King = Nylon PA66 Top Housing + Gateron Ink Bottom Housing + POM Stem
 
Generic 205g0 Lubricant (3 mL) is for a friend, actually, not me. I’ve still got that stash of lube that I won from Stupid Bullets Tech’s giveaway, as well as my (very) old jar of leftover lube.
 
Most things are for the newly acquired 4398 keeb! 
This one:
 
The original plan was Durock POM switches, then I remembered Gateron Oil Kings were a thing and thought, “Eh, why not?”
For initial impressions, I’m decently impressed by the Oil Kings, actually. Factory pre-lubed, and they feel exceptionally smooth. Very easy recommend for anyone looking for a solid stock linear switch. The stock Durock POMs aren’t anything too special, in comparison. Your standard linear switch – a slight bit of scratchiness that first-timers won’t notice, probably remedy-able with some lube. Though, I do prefer the clean, brandless housings of Durock’s instead of Gateron’s.  
Oh, also ye, I finally snagged those 210g (and 180g) springs!
LET’S GOOOOOOOOOO BABYYY!!! 
…My pinky fingers are going to hate me. 😂

Stuff's arrived! 😁
 

 Switches n' Stuff! 
108 × Durock POM Switches
108 × Gateron Oil King Switches
100 × SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (210g)
100 × SPRiT MX Supreme Springs (180g)
Durock V2 Screw-In Stabilizers
20 × KBDfans Stabilizer Foam Pads
 
 Forgot to Photograph 
240 × Deskeys Switch Films
Generic 205g0 Lubricant (3 mL)
 

Durock POM Switch + Gateron Oil King Switch
Durock POM = POM Top Housing + POM Bottom Housing + ??? Stem
Gateron Oil King = Nylon PA66 Top Housing + Gateron Ink Bottom Housing + POM Stem
 
Generic 205g0 Lubricant (3 mL) is for a friend, actually, not me. I’ve still got that stash of lube that I won from Stupid Bullets Tech’s giveaway, as well as my (very) old jar of leftover lube.
 
Most things are for the newly acquired 4398 keeb! 
This one:
 
The original plan was Durock POM switches, then I remembered Gateron Oil Kings were a thing and thought, “Eh, why not?”
For initial impressions, I’m decently impressed by the Oil Kings, actually. Factory pre-lubed, and they feel exceptionally smooth. Very easy recommend for anyone looking for a solid stock linear switch. The stock Durock POMs aren’t anything too special, in comparison. Your standard linear switch – a slight bit of scratchiness that first-timers won’t notice, probably remedy-able with some lube. Though, I do prefer the clean, brandless housings of Durock’s instead of Gateron’s.  
Oh, also ye, I finally snagged those 210g (and 180g) springs!
LET’S GOOOOOOOOOO BABYYY!!! 
…My pinky fingers are going to hate me. 😂

43 Studio - Package!
First time ordering a couple hundred dollars’ worth of something overseas... 😅
Nervous purchase, but glad it was safely (and swiftly!) delivered in the end.
 Four days, all the way from Singapore, no customs holdups or fees. 
 

43 Studio - Unboxing

Guess what it is, lol.
 

43 Studio - 4398 Keyboard Kit

It totally is another custom keeb kit. 
 

4398 Keyboard Kit - PCB + Accessories
1 × 4398 Keyboard PCB
1 × Poron Foam (3.5mm)
120 × PE Foam Switch Pads
1 × Winkey Blocker
3 × Black Keyboard Accents
3 × Frosted Keyboard Accents
1 × 7U Stabilizer Wire
+ Screws, Bumpons, Gloves(?) Etc.
 
Switches, stabilizers, keycaps, and other modding stuff on the way!
I’m actually motivated to do custom keeb stuff again. Whoa. Imagine. 😂

43 Studio - Package!
First time ordering a couple hundred dollars’ worth of something overseas... 😅
Nervous purchase, but glad it was safely (and swiftly!) delivered in the end.
 Four days, all the way from Singapore, no customs holdups or fees. 
 

43 Studio - Unboxing

Guess what it is, lol.
 

43 Studio - 4398 Keyboard Kit

It totally is another custom keeb kit. 
 

4398 Keyboard Kit - PCB + Accessories
1 × 4398 Keyboard PCB
1 × Poron Foam (3.5mm)
120 × PE Foam Switch Pads
1 × Winkey Blocker
3 × Black Keyboard Accents
3 × Frosted Keyboard Accents
1 × 7U Stabilizer Wire
+ Screws, Bumpons, Gloves(?) Etc.
 
Switches, stabilizers, keycaps, and other modding stuff on the way!
I’m actually motivated to do custom keeb stuff again. Whoa. Imagine. 😂

43 Studio - Package!
First time ordering a couple hundred dollars’ worth of something overseas... 😅
Nervous purchase, but glad it was safely (and swiftly!) delivered in the end.
 Four days, all the way from Singapore, no customs holdups or fees. 
 

43 Studio - Unboxing

Guess what it is, lol.
 

43 Studio - 4398 Keyboard Kit

It totally is another custom keeb kit. 
 

4398 Keyboard Kit - PCB + Accessories
1 × 4398 Keyboard PCB
1 × Poron Foam (3.5mm)
120 × PE Foam Switch Pads
1 × Winkey Blocker
3 × Black Keyboard Accents
3 × Frosted Keyboard Accents
1 × 7U Stabilizer Wire
+ Screws, Bumpons, Gloves(?) Etc.
 
Switches, stabilizers, keycaps, and other modding stuff on the way!
I’m actually motivated to do custom keeb stuff again. Whoa. Imagine. 😂

Hey there.
It's Pilot G2 pens for me. Served me great from middle school to university.
Pilot G2 Ultra Fine Point (0.38 mm): My preferred mm. Suits small, fine handwriting, but it does clog up easily. Pilot G2 Extra Fine Point (0.5 mm): The other choice. Serves decent for small, fine handwriting. I find it clogs up less often than the 0.38 mm. Pilot G2 Fine Point (0.7 mm) : Never tried these. I suppose they're an option for people that like thicker lines. All the above are also refillable.
Pilot G2 Ultra Fine Point Refills Pilot G2 Extra Fine Point Refills Pilot G2 Fine Point Refills: Link to a Burgundy refill. Can't find the Black on Amazon, but I'm sure it exists from other vendors. Do note that the Pilot G2s are rollerballs with gel inks. No idea how well they'll perform on your paper.
 
If one of my pens does clog up, I tend to run it on a piece of recycled paper or notepad paper several times to get the ball rolling again. I hear a rubber surface works just as well, though I've never tried that method.

Hey there.
Some suggestions. Visuals of each keycap set are hidden in spoilers.
 
IFK Blacklight Keycap Set
Available for $120.00 from TheKey.Company. PBT Material, Cherry Profile, Dye-Sublimated Legends.  
AKKO Midnight ASA Keycap Set
Available for $69.99 from Epomaker. PBT Material, ASA Profile, Double-Shot Legends.  
EnjoyPBT Miami Nights Keycap Set
Available for $69.00 from Divinikey. ABS Material, Cherry Profile, Double-Shot Legends.  
Drop + Matt3o MT3 Susuwatari Keycap Set
Available for $120+ from Drop. ABS Material, MT3 Profile, Double-Shot Legends.  
IDOBAO Black Sakura Keycap Set
Available for $38.00+ from IDOBAO, or $42.00 from Drop. PBT Material, DSA Profile, Laser-Engraved Legends.  
WOB PBT Double-Shot Keycap Set
Available for $49.00 from KBDfans. Similar WOB PBT keycap sets may be available from third-party vendors. PBT Material, Cherry Profile, Double-Shot Legends.  
GMK Aurora Polaris Keycap Set
Dec 2021 Group Buy: The GB's already ended, but you may be able to find secondhand listings of the keycap set. Expect secondhand listings to be heavily marked up. GMK: ABS Material, Cherry Profile.  
GMK Umbra
Dec 2019 Group Buy: The GB's already ended, but you may be able to find secondhand listings of the keycap set. Expect secondhand listings to be heavily marked up. GMK: ABS Material, Cherry Profile.