Mechanical keyboards are gaining immense popularity amongst gaming enthusiasts, coding experts, and software developers for their tactile feedback, improved response times, and overall versatility. An untapped area in this field is the potential of acoustic customization to enhance the typing or gaming experience. Here, we delve deeper into the realm of modifying the acoustic features of mechanical keyboards, guiding you to personalize your device for optimal sound.
The primary topic of discussion is known as “dampening.” It refers to the process of significantly reducing the loud clicking sound that everyone associates with the mechanical keyboards. While some users find the sounds produced by keystrokes delightful, others may prefer a quieter setting.
The key to successfully modifying the acoustics of your keyboard lies entirely on the materials you choose to implement. The most commonly used materials are foam and sorbothane. Foam and sorbothane are sound-absorbing materials typically employed in the acoustic industry. They play a vital part in controlling keyboard noise due to their amazing sound-absorbing capabilities.
A DIY case foam modification method has consistently proven to be effective in dampening the noise on a mechanical keyboard. The process involves cutting your foam to the exact size of the keyboard base, then inserting it between the PCB and the base. This foam absorbs the bouncing sound made when the keycap of the keyboard bounces back to its regular place after being pressed.
However, it’s vital to maintain the right thickness. If the foam is too thick, it may push the PCB upwards making keyboard assembly difficult. On the other hand, an excessively thin layer might not effectively absorb the banging sound. Therefore, it’s critical to take precise measurement of the keyboard’s internals and adjust the foam thickness accordingly.
The second modification involves silent switches, which are specially designed to reduce the sound produced by bottoming out and resetting the keys. For those unfamiliar with the terms, ‘bottoming out’ refers to a key being pressed down completely, while ‘reset’ is when the key returns to its original position. Brands such as Cherry MX, Gateron and ZealPC offer silent switches that have built-in dampening to decrease the impact noise.
Another exciting and recent trend in keyboard acoustics is the use of lubing kits. The idea behind lubing is simple: by applying a thin layer of lubricant to the moving parts of the switches, the friction is reduced, leading to a softer and smoother keystroke.
But, there’s a catch. Over-lubrication may cause the keys to become ‘sticky,’ whilst under-lubrication won’t achieve the desired effect. Hence, the key is to find a balance. The lubing process needs to be patient, applying it carefully on the stem, spring, and inside the housing of the switch.
For users wanting a slightly higher pitched tone, aluminum plates are recommended. They provide a distinct, sharper sound, as compared to other materials. On the other hand, brass plates offer a lower pitched, duller clack, while polycarbonate plates produce the softest sound of all, almost a dull thud.
Stabilizers can also affect a keyboard’s sound profile. A rattling or metallic noise is generally due to un-lubricated stabilizers. The most common modifications you can make are Clip, Lube, and Band-aid mods. The Band-aid modification is the process of sticking Band-aids where the keyboard stabilizer clips touch the PCB before applying lube. This helps to reduce plastic-on-plastic friction and soften bottom-out sounds.
Talking about materials, PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) keycaps are often mentioned when discussing keyboard modification. They are denser and more susceptible to ‘thocky’ sounds, where the sound produced is a deep and hollow clack. ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) keycaps produce a higher pitched clack due to their thinner structure, contributing to the sound levels.
Thus, acoustic modifications on mechanical keyboards open an incredible gateway into tailoring one’s experience. Whether you opt for foam padding, silent switches, lubing, changing the plate and stabilizers, or shifting keycaps, each modification transforms your keyboard acoustics. These alterations are a form of expression, showcasing the effort and meticulous thought process behind enhancing the keyboard’s sound, truly creating a personal sound signature.
Remember, keyboard acoustics isn’t just about reducing noise, it’s about crafting an auditory ambiance that complements your typing style and preferences. The journey of exploration in mechanical keyboard realm is an in-depth endeavor, shaped by intricate techniques and endless possibilities; an engaging interplay of science, sound, and creativity.
