This is not for project requests (I've got that covered). This thread is for suggestions on things you would like to see happen or done differently in 2015. I want members here to feel they have a voice in how MBP operates and quite often people suggest things I would not think of myself.
So, if you have any ideas on enhancements to the forum/website/project documentation/release schedules, etc. please put them here. I promise I will review everyone's suggestions and give my thoughts, too.
Please do read this first if you have not already since it outlines some of my plans for 2015 (that list is by no means final or comprehensive): http://www.madbeanpedals.com/forum/index.php?topic=18841.0
Thank you in advance for all comments, feedback, criticism, etc.
I think the old EHX stuff is a lot of fun. You've talked about doing some more of those. I'd build em.
Quote from: pickdropper on December 18, 2014, 08:25:19 AM
I think the old EHX stuff is a lot of fun. You've talked about doing some more of those. I'd build em.
+1
A cooperative community-designed project, so everyone of us could put some of our ideas/skills to work.
It should be a hard task, but really fun, and you won't need to expend that much time developing projects.
Preorders to help move out of stock items back into stock without tying up so much of Brian's capital.
i wouyld really to love see smt MBP boards, im getting addicted to that over this days, also and why not, MBP real tube amps pcbs, i really love turrets on tube amps, but nothing like working on a pcb you could give a shot on a 15w tube amp pcb id buy that right away
Not sure what your demand is, but I'd love to see more bass oriented mods (that are confirmed to work) in the documentation for pedals like the Kingslayer. For someone who is a little bit of a novice like myself, giving a few values to test out is a little bit intimidating. While it's probably a good learning experience, I'd love to be able to narrow things down a little bit more.
That said, offering some boards with a built in blend option--naughty fish, kraken, and mudbunny come immediately to mind--would be nice for bass players as well. I know that some companies offer blend/buff boards, but it would be nice to have that as a part of some of the PCB's you offer or to offer a blend board in the road rage section.
Quote from: Jopn on December 18, 2014, 08:43:18 AM
Preorders to help move out of stock items back into stock without tying up so much of Brian's capital.
+1
Quote from: Jopn on December 18, 2014, 08:43:18 AM
Preorders to help move out of stock items back into stock without tying up so much of Brian's capital.
This is a great idea!
I'll post what i said in the other thread too: A quarterly project or two would be cool. Limited run for 3 months then done. Kind of like what you are doing with the Laser Wolf and Dirt Baby.
-Maybe offer a group buy for the new projects. Group buys seem to be very popular now a days.
Naked chicks and kittens together.
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
My idea is flawless!
I would think that if you don't want to put the components together yourself--understandable--then make sure that you have a BOM set up for each project at Mouser and/or complete links to components at Smallbear (which you are usually pretty good with). As a relative novice, navigating those sites to pick the right type of resistor is maddening and can be a real holdup.
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
Oh, puh-lease. Rule 34 guarantees you are wrong.
Quote from: thesameage on December 18, 2014, 09:09:45 AM
I would think that if you don't want to put the components together yourself--understandable--then make sure that you have a BOM set up for each project at Mouser and/or complete links to components at Smallbear (which you are usually pretty good with). As a relative novice, navigating those sites to pick the right type of resistor is maddening and can be a real holdup.
This is a good idea, but it's hard to maintain BOMs at the middle-tier suppliers like Mouser. There is a lot of flux on their end, from changing stock numbers to end-of-life notices. Brian would have to update all of the project PDFs at least every 2-3 months. Lately it has been worse for DIY because of the vanishing of through-hole semiconductors and ICs.
Quote from: culturejam on December 18, 2014, 09:33:06 AM
Quote from: thesameage on December 18, 2014, 09:09:45 AM
I would think that if you don't want to put the components together yourself--understandable--then make sure that you have a BOM set up for each project at Mouser and/or complete links to components at Smallbear (which you are usually pretty good with). As a relative novice, navigating those sites to pick the right type of resistor is maddening and can be a real holdup.
This is a good idea, but it's hard to maintain BOMs at the middle-tier suppliers like Mouser. There is a lot of flux on their end, from changing stock numbers to end-of-life notices. Brian would have to update all of the project PDFs at least every 2-3 months. Lately it has been worse for DIY because of the vanishing of through-hole semiconductors and ICs.
That makes sense. My suggestion would be for the BOM to just consistently tell us exactly what kind of caps/resistors (type, size, voltage, etc.) to get for each project to take out some of the guesswork. I do realize that many different values and types can be use in each project (which separates this from just making jigsaw puzzles), but a good baseline for novices would be great. Some BOMs have this and others (current Mudbunny for example) do not.
Grouping verified mods by project. However, I don't know if that would be practical
Quote from: flanagan0718 on December 18, 2014, 09:02:05 AM
Quote from: Jopn on December 18, 2014, 08:43:18 AM
Preorders to help move out of stock items back into stock without tying up so much of Brian's capital.
This is a great idea!
I'll post what i said in the other thread too: A quarterly project or two would be cool. Limited run for 3 months then done. Kind of like what you are doing with the Laser Wolf and Dirt Baby.
-Maybe offer a group buy for the new projects. Group buys seem to be very popular now a days.
I like the group buy option for some projects
Quote from: midwayfair on December 18, 2014, 09:31:46 AM
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
Oh, puh-lease. Rule 34 guarantees you are wrong.
I actually had to look up Rule 34. Apparently Kittens and Cougars already exists....
Back to the topic on hand, in order of importance to what you've listed as goals
1) New product release - just cause, you know, I need a fix.
2) Update the website - get that monkey off your back
3) DIY projects - this will no doubt be crazy
4) Updates to existing projects - do you really need to tweak the last 0.05% out of an already great project? Probably not. And you're going to move a bunch more new product to everyone as opposed to revamped older product. Unless, of course, they involve sharks with laserbeams. In which case this becomes #1. I'm assuming the Lasershark is the followup to the Laserwolf, and that by 2016 everyone's boards will be covered with fricking laser beams. :P
5) Contests - just cause I don't invest in graphics beyond a paint pen.
Quote from: midwayfair on December 18, 2014, 09:31:46 AM
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
Oh, puh-lease. Rule 34 guarantees you are wrong.
I demand proof!
Though my odds are poor given I was convinced I was onto a winner with the custard vest only to find out I was beaten to it.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/7882505/Armour-made-from-bullet-proof-custard.html
I agree with the preorders; it should be a thing.
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The "Mods Section" is a nice idea too. Confirmed mods can be in one section to make mod searching easier. Or, since you are doing a site redesing there could be a tag search function. Tags might get abused, but as the forum grows it could make searching easier.
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I would really like to see an OSHpark share section, where people can post their shared projects and provide BOMs or other support for the project that isn't so easy to do in OSH alone.
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A live webcam at your development desk.
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Last runs. You did something like this earlier in the year with the Pepper Spray and a few other circuits. Well publicized last runs of circuits. Get a feel for how many people want it. Make a large purchase. Sell them out. Don't restock. Of course you wouldn't do this with your best sellers, but it could free up both PCB managment effort and wallet space newer/better things.
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More swag. The only way I'll ever be able to get that Madbean toan is if I'm soldering with Madbean brand Solder, and Madbean iron tip, while wearing nothing but my Madbean tighty whities, and drinking Madbean cola from my Madbean 64ounce mug.
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A damn donate button. Sometimes I don't want to buy anything but I want to just give you money.
Quote from: icecycle66 on December 18, 2014, 09:59:51 AM
A live webcam at your development desk.
You're thinking too small! A live webcam with access to a remote shock collar ;)
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Naked chicks and kittens together.
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
My idea is flawless!
(http://imageshack.com/a/img673/558/pvSZ7D.jpg)
Quote from: Scruffie on December 18, 2014, 10:05:29 AM
Quote from: icecycle66 on December 18, 2014, 09:59:51 AM
A live webcam at your development desk.
You're thinking too small! A live webcam with access to a remote shock collar ;)
I'm fairly sure there are speciality channels for that sort of thing ;)
Quote from: Droogie on December 18, 2014, 10:08:13 AM
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Naked chicks and kittens together.
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
My idea is flawless!
(http://imageshack.com/a/img673/558/pvSZ7D.jpg)
AWESOME!
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 10:09:16 AM
Quote from: Scruffie on December 18, 2014, 10:05:29 AM
Quote from: icecycle66 on December 18, 2014, 09:59:51 AM
A live webcam at your development desk.
You're thinking too small! A live webcam with access to a remote shock collar ;)
I'm fairly sure there are speciality channels for that sort of thing ;)
Oh no... when it comes to that i'm in to something much... darker :P
The old EHX stuff
**Stuff that works with control voltage**
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Naked chicks and kittens together.
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
My idea is flawless!
Dude, if you were in the US I would vote for you for President. But since you're not I may have to move to the UK so I can vote for you for King.
Quote from: icecycle66 on December 18, 2014, 09:59:51 AM
A damn donate button. Sometimes I don't want to buy anything but I want to just give you money.
This. I take more out of this forum than I put in. I wouldn't mind having another way to contribute a bit to keep the lights on.
something that will put a dent in my pile of germanium transistors
Things I have really enjoyed on your new build docs are the voltages. As someone that is learning with every build, I sometime rely on them to make sure what I made is working properly. I love the idea of a donate button since I have been in that situation also where I really don't need any PCBs but would love to kick a few bucks to you.
(I am terrible at this next one)
I was also thinking of some incentive to get people to do more video/audio demos of working builds. I, as a builder, use them to see if my build sound much different from that of another. It also helps when deciding what to build next.
Another idea I was thinking of was a "most proud of of the month". Like a forum with sub-forums of every month and we post our favorite build of the month. Doesn't have to be a contest but more of a "I am most proud of this build" kind of thing. I know we have a thread of pedal photos and maybe that would be better to utilize.. just thoughts.
What about a "work bench" forum for talk on tools & everything related?
/random_thoughts
Cody
I would love a good synth pedal, or how about a sitar pedal?
Your survey idea is great. You know everyone wants the DBD3, but does everyone want the Dig-Dug2? I do, but survey monkey would definitely tell you what to prioritize.
On the subject of survey, how about pedal names? Yours are brilliant. I especially love the Upper Decker, but where is the Abe Lincoln or the Dirty Sanchez?
Where is the Madbean Manifesto? (much better title then Mien Bean, btw)... where else will we learn if the almighty Beans plan for world domination? I for one don't want to simply watch as it unfolds, I want to to prepare... no partake. Will there be cake?
Quote from: thesameage on December 18, 2014, 09:09:45 AM
I would think that if you don't want to put the components together yourself--understandable--then make sure that you have a BOM set up for each project at Mouser and/or complete links to components at Smallbear (which you are usually pretty good with). As a relative novice, navigating those sites to pick the right type of resistor is maddening and can be a real holdup.
I'm not sure if this is just what he is already describing, or if it is even possible. But, is it possible to set-up a one-click to add all components for a project to cart kinda thing at any store? Probably my least favorite part of this hobby is adding components to cart.
I think Brian mentioned in his OP that he was looking at ideas OTHER THAN design ideas cause he already had that covered.
....but since many posters replied with design ideas ::) :-[, I will too.....
Stereo in/stereo out pedals!
That's exactly what I'm describing. Mouser has a feature where you can save whole "projects" or at least the parts that they carry. Here's a thread with many projects already saved in it: http://www.madbeanpedals.com/forum/index.php?topic=5703.0
I get what culturejam is saying, though. Whenever I use the BOM's in that thread, many components are out of stock or missing and you have to go hunt for them, which is even harder on Mouser. Now that Smallbear has an upgraded site, it would be awesome if they had a module or feature that they could engage with their system that saved whole project lists.
Bi phase
I feel like I should put a disclaimer at the start of this post -- Brian, my comments below are meant not as criticism, but just as observations from the past year or so. In general, I think you do a fantastic job, and the entire DIY community is better for having you. MBP is truly great, and I want it to be even more so if possible.
I do think that more transparency would be welcome here. Aside from a few sporadic updates, most of the time we're in the dark regarding new/upcoming projects. We tend to either get a random picture of a circuit board with no context every few months, or a new project will just appear overnight. I'm not saying that you should be live-tweeting your development process or anything, but think about how many projects have missed their planned release dates in 2014. Most of the time, there wasn't any explanation given when a project was delayed. I think keeping us in the loop about why these delays are happening would go a long way towards preventing frustration in your customer base; this would also probably prevent some frustration for you too, as you'd have fewer people asking "y u no releas dirtbag3??" on a daily basis. Even for the majority of us who are waiting patiently, it'd be reassuring to hear more about how things are developing. It's a little disappointing to hear "It's coming soon!", and then be told "It's coming later!" with no other explanation. More than once, we were told that this fall would see multiple PCB releases every month, but that didn't happen.
I know there are a million reasons for development to stall or be delayed, and that you're incredibly busy -- just keep us in the loop. I really think it'd make things a bit easier all around. I understand your general hesitance to even assign release dates to anything at this point, so maybe the answer is to keep up a steadier stream of info as you work, and not announce a release date at all until you're ready for it. Or if you do announce one and it slips past, let us know why. We'll understand.
My other request is similar to one you mentioned in your earlier State of the Union post. For 2015, I'm going to propose that you clear out the backlog of projects that have been promised and delayed for some time before working on new designs. I think the entire forum is frothing at the mouth for the DBD 3 and Attack Decay projects, and the Dig Dug 2 has been in development for several years at this point. Is it cool that you designed a Bluesbreaker PCB this year? Yes. But it might've been better to have spent that time getting one of the long-awaited projects out the door instead. (At this time, I'd like to acknowledge the release of the Moodring, after its own lengthy development.)
I understand that it's difficult to work on the same projects for a while, and that sometimes you need to do something else just for a mental break. But it seems like 2014 had too much of "something else".
Again, I think you do an amazing job and have nothing but respect for you. I've been a Madbean customer ever since it was only a monthly mailing list, and I look forward to being a Madbean customer for years to come -- I've just been thinking about this stuff for a while, and I'm glad you've asked us for our input. Thanks for listening!
so many great requests already, I'm with stereo in and out thing, the donate button, the pre-order stuff, and more of the included mods on the build docs.
I would like to see some sort of a musical collab happening though. It really would be easy, we are all proud of our builds and toanz and sometimes pressing the record button and just noodling around can feel a bit taxing even before you begin, because it's...sort of pointless in this regard that you're not really making any music. So, and this kinda builds on Cody's idea of incentivising people to do audio/video demos, we could take an existing (or member made) backing track and just lay riffs and melodies on top of it. This could be a monthly, or bi-monthly thing or something, and the participants to each track could be chosen at random. For example, five guys get chosen at random and then they complete a song using a build they've made during that month (or in the last two months if bi-monthly). This could build on top of the quarterly contest idea as well, where we get to hear the top 3 or 5 voted builds in action. It wouldn't at all be some sort of a competition thing in a way where guys with more skill on the instrument would slay the ones who are less skilled, no, absolutely not, we could even put a ban on solos. Dunno, I think this could be really fun, and a chance to hear those striking looking builds in action and in the context of a "song" and, most importantly, right next to the build of a fellow stompbox brother in the sonic realm of awesomeness.
That, and less dirt boxes being developed. Keep the ones that are in offer right now, restock, there are always guys that are coming for that sorta thing (I am the first that will buy the Danger Zone once it's restocked) but generally speaking, who needs another OD, let's do more modulation effects, and as somebody stated, more envelope controlled effects that are not auto-wah type of things and more (the first?) control voltage controlled circuits.
Thank you for everything you do and God bless.
Icecycle96 mentioned an OSHpark shared project subforum, I think that's a great idea. I don't really know how to navigate that stuff, but I just know there's all kinds of cool builds waiting for me to find them.
I know this won't be popular, but I might suggest no release dates, implied or explicit. That removes false expectations for us, and I imagine takes the pressure off for you. We'd still like to hear what you're working on, but you could release as fluidly as you like without folks feeling like they're missing out.
I sort of like the pre-sale idea, but I could also see it adding more work in terms of organization. The trade off is having a feel for how much interest a project has. I don't know where the break point is in that equation.
Quote from: juansolo on December 18, 2014, 09:07:17 AM
Naked chicks and kittens together.
Let's face it, they're the two most looked at things on the internet yet no one has combined the two...
My idea is flawless!
Just to prove you wrong and because it's a very relaxing video.
DISCLAIMER: You need a google account to prove your age, so this should give you an idea already, but don't necessarily watch this with your little child standing next to you. Nothing spectacular here, just to make sure no one gets in trouble ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pF_YEFJpHX8
As for requests, I'd second group-buys for to-be-released products if that helps you with financing. And I found the idea of a "subscription" awesome. Pay amount xy and get the next few pcbs that are to be released. Gives us the opportunity to support you, ease your finance stress and get all the goods without hassle.
Quote from: m-Kresol on December 19, 2014, 01:41:42 AM
And I found the idea of a "subscription" awesome. Pay amount xy and get the next few pcbs that are to be released. Gives us the opportunity to support you, ease your finance stress and get all the goods without hassle.
I suggested that, and was ok with it, but I understand why Brian said what he said:
Quote from: madbean
It is not the right model for MBP. I would not be able to keep up with the demand of satisfying a subscription-based service.
->
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 05:23:32 PM
What about a "work bench" forum for talk on tools & everything related?
I love this idea.
Maybe incorporating parts sourcing as well. There are always plenty of questions along the lines of 'what iron do you use', 'where did you buy those knobs', 'how did you do that etch' etc.
I think we all also love talking about tools that can make the frustrating/time consuming parts of the hobby easier.
Quote from: raulduke on December 19, 2014, 02:34:54 AM
-> Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 05:23:32 PM
What about a "work bench" forum for talk on tools & everything related?
I love this idea.
Maybe incorporating parts sourcing as well. There are always plenty of questions along the lines of 'what iron do you use', 'where did you buy those knobs', 'how did you do that etch' etc.
I think we all also love talking about tools that can make the frustrating/time consuming parts of the hobby easier.
I like the workbench Idea as well. Some of the other stuff might fall under the "Tutorial" subject but the "Whats on your bench and why" is cool.
It's going to take me a while to review and comment on everything here so I won't try to rush out responses (but I will do so in the next few days).
Once again, you guys know what's up. So many comments here are spot on. lincolnic - I pretty much agree with everything you posted. That's very healthy feedback! I will address one point though about the BB PCB since you mentioned it: sometimes it is good to grab some "low hanging fruit" to ensure that the money train keeps rolling. Without that, none of the big stuff can happen. That's just to give you a little of my perspective on why some things might suddenly appear when other long promised projects are not put first. If I can turn a project over fairly quickly (and it is a good one that I believe in ((the only kind I do))) I can keep a little cash flow to fund other things.
Anyway, keep it coming. This stuff is gold.
Quote from: morganp on December 19, 2014, 01:25:38 AM
Icecycle96 mentioned an OSHpark shared project subforum, I think that's a great idea. I don't really know how to navigate that stuff, but I just know there's all kinds of cool builds waiting for me to find them.
I'd suggest retooling the Cadsoft EAGLE subforum for this one.
The danger of all the subfora being suggested is a possibility of fragmenting the MBP userbase. (Not saying it shouldn't be done, just playing devil's advocate :) )
Quote from: icecycle66 on December 18, 2014, 09:59:51 AM
...
A damn donate button. Sometimes I don't want to buy anything but I want to just give you money.
Yeah, the forum itself is a great resource and it would be nice to be able to contribute to it directly.
Quote from: flanagan0718 on December 19, 2014, 06:08:59 AM
Quote from: raulduke on December 19, 2014, 02:34:54 AM
-> Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 05:23:32 PM
What about a "work bench" forum for talk on tools & everything related?
I love this idea.
Maybe incorporating parts sourcing as well. There are always plenty of questions along the lines of 'what iron do you use', 'where did you buy those knobs', 'how did you do that etch' etc.
I think we all also love talking about tools that can make the frustrating/time consuming parts of the hobby easier.
I like the workbench Idea as well. Some of the other stuff might fall under the "Tutorial" subject but the "Whats on your bench and why" is cool.
I'm glad I read all the way to the end of this thread before commenting, because these last few posts were the first thing I thought of. What makes MBP better than other DIY sites, from a newbie perspective (I only started building pedals this summer), is the amount of help on the forums. Most other places people are told to simply "search" or "read this 500 page novel on the theory of a subject" when, in reality, a newbie just wants to have a fast-start method to get in there and get their hands dirty. The Members Projects and Tutorials forum is great, but it's pretty disorganized. Streamlining that, with a "Workbench" forum as suggested, and maybe a separate subforum for "Tutorials" would make that information much easier to access.
And your build docs are the best. I especially like the commentary about each project, discussing how it differs from this or that circuit and why. I wish every project could have a build doc like yours.
I like the workbench idea. We can have that. For tutorials, I am imagining something bigger. A dedicated area outside of the forum for tutorials with some video compliment. Also, an area for user-sbumitted tutorials.
How about a member page section on the site? As in - if you wanted to have a small bio about yourself and a personal gallery. Completely voluntary, of course. My hope is the re-designed store will include personal accounts with an order history, so perhaps there is a way to integrate both things into a seamless experience.
Quote from: madbean on December 19, 2014, 09:03:51 AM
How about a member page section on the site? As in - if you wanted to have a small bio about yourself and a personal gallery. Completely voluntary, of course. My hope is the re-designed store will include personal accounts with an order history, so perhaps there is a way to integrate both things into a seamless experience.
oh, I like this idea. Also us posting photos should give you rights to use them as "finished product photos" if you want to use them to show a finished product of your PCBs.
Cody
Quote from: lincolnic on December 18, 2014, 10:11:38 PM
I feel like I should put a disclaimer at the start of this post -- Brian, my comments below are meant not as criticism, but just as observations from the past year or so. In general, I think you do a fantastic job, and the entire DIY community is better for having you. MBP is truly great, and I want it to be even more so if possible.
I do think that more transparency would be welcome here. Aside from a few sporadic updates, most of the time we're in the dark regarding new/upcoming projects. We tend to either get a random picture of a circuit board with no context every few months, or a new project will just appear overnight. I'm not saying that you should be live-tweeting your development process or anything, but think about how many projects have missed their planned release dates in 2014. Most of the time, there wasn't any explanation given when a project was delayed. I think keeping us in the loop about why these delays are happening would go a long way towards preventing frustration in your customer base; this would also probably prevent some frustration for you too, as you'd have fewer people asking "y u no releas dirtbag3??" on a daily basis. Even for the majority of us who are waiting patiently, it'd be reassuring to hear more about how things are developing. It's a little disappointing to hear "It's coming soon!", and then be told "It's coming later!" with no other explanation. More than once, we were told that this fall would see multiple PCB releases every month, but that didn't happen.
I know there are a million reasons for development to stall or be delayed, and that you're incredibly busy -- just keep us in the loop. I really think it'd make things a bit easier all around. I understand your general hesitance to even assign release dates to anything at this point, so maybe the answer is to keep up a steadier stream of info as you work, and not announce a release date at all until you're ready for it. Or if you do announce one and it slips past, let us know why. We'll understand.
I had a long addition to this however... I believe it to be more prudent to just say.....
I agree with this! 8)
Okay, I think we can address the "transparency/need to know' thing in a pretty straight-forward manner. So far info on project development gets released in three ways: the Proj Dev section of the forum, the Facebook page and the Upcoming Projects list on the Projects Page.
I think what needs to happen is consolidate everything into one dynamic page on the website proper that lists all the projects I am working on, a brief description of the circuit and then periodic updates on where the development stands, eg, "prototype ordered", or "built and confirmed" etc. Just a brief update when I have a milestone to report. That way if a member sees something they are interested in they can be informed about where it stands and ask questions if they want to. It's kind of what I've been doing in a half-assed way. This way is fully assed.
That in itself would be a bit of work to set up and maintain but I think it is probably worth it because it will help me stay organized, too.
------------------
Let me give you an anecdote on how stream of conscious I can be sometimes. Yesterday I was going through a pile of boards cause I needed to get some extra germ diodes. I came across a board that I had built that was modded version of the John Hollis Easyvibe (a project that I think would be a good addition here). I was like "oh wow...this one was good. It's verified and I should release this!".
I built that three weeks ago and had already forgotten about it. That's how bad I am about things!
Quote from: madbean on December 19, 2014, 09:03:51 AM
I like the workbench idea. We can have that. For tutorials, I am imagining something bigger. A dedicated area outside of the forum for tutorials with some video compliment. Also, an area for user-sbumitted tutorials.
How about a member page section on the site? As in - if you wanted to have a small bio about yourself and a personal gallery. Completely voluntary, of course. My hope is the re-designed store will include personal accounts with an order history, so perhaps there is a way to integrate both things into a seamless experience.
I was thinking about how valuable the tutorial over at GPCB was when I started doing this. I think a "Noob" section with all the startup basics : How to Solder, How Caps Work (With a value chart), How Resistors Work, How to Box It....
Just to elaborate on the workbench thing, tools and paints. For instance I've used Cody's blog several times for tool recommendations. He has a workbench section that has a good amount of recommendations and good material. The paint section, I think, would be great too. I would, as example, post a picture of the Elephuzz that I entered in the contest and then post a picture / name, color, etc of the paint I used. That way if someone liked the color they could have some reference when they go to buy it. I have often wondered what colors some people have used for their build. Just another thought. Hope I'm not flooding this with bad ideas, my ADD sometimes gets the best of me :D
Consider posting any new available projects on your main page. To make sure there are no new projects I typically read through the project names to see if there is one I don't recognize
Quote from: flanagan0718 on December 19, 2014, 09:55:16 AM
Just to elaborate on the workbench thing, tools and paints. For instance I've used Cody's blog several times for tool recommendations. He has a workbench section that has a good amount of recommendations and good material. The paint section, I think, would be great too. I would, as example, post a picture of the Elephuzz that I entered in the contest and then post a picture / name, color, etc of the paint I used. That way if someone liked the color they could have some reference when they go to buy it. I have often wondered what colors some people have used for their build. Just another thought. Hope I'm not flooding this with bad ideas, my ADD sometimes gets the best of me :D
In the "noob" section it would be very nice to have example photos of different ways to finish out a box. But for color matching, perhaps it might be better to simply have a suggested "information form" for people to use when posting build reports? I'm brainstorming, but a simple copy & paste numbered list could have information about the circuit, any mods, how the PCB was acquired, any special components, how the box was finished and what materials/special tools were used. Then all a member has to do is fill out the form, add comments and pics, and post.
How about a MadBean wiki? I really like the idea of user profiles... Easy to do on a wiki, also I like the idea of better organized build and mod pages too. If an MB wiki gets just a fraction of the input that the forum does there will be one hell of a lot of info, and likely more organized.
I would suggest you organize the "top" pages and then let the community take it from there.
The forums should remain a place for questions, conversations and such, the wiki could become the place for documentation.
This would be a good spot for the etchers paradise as well
Quote from: madbean on December 19, 2014, 06:47:58 AM
I will address one point though about the BB PCB since you mentioned it: sometimes it is good to grab some "low hanging fruit" to ensure that the money train keeps rolling. Without that, none of the big stuff can happen. That's just to give you a little of my perspective on why some things might suddenly appear when other long promised projects are not put first. If I can turn a project over fairly quickly (and it is a good one that I believe in ((the only kind I do))) I can keep a little cash flow to fund other things.
I hear you -- I totally understand that some things happen just to keep the lights on. I'm guessing the 2014 PCB redesigns were for similar reasons (or at least, some of them were). For the record, I have no beef with the BB project. It was just an example I saw of something that happened this year and made me go "Well, that's cool, but what about all the other stuff?" It's good to have something new around, and it's good that projects like that can fund other stuff in development.
Quote from: madbean on December 19, 2014, 09:50:10 AM
Okay, I think we can address the "transparency/need to know' thing in a pretty straight-forward manner. So far info on project development gets released in three ways: the Proj Dev section of the forum, the Facebook page and the Upcoming Projects list on the Projects Page.
I think what needs to happen is consolidate everything into one dynamic page on the website proper that lists all the projects I am working on, a brief description of the circuit and then periodic updates on where the development stands, eg, "prototype ordered", or "built and confirmed" etc. Just a brief update when I have a milestone to report. That way if a member sees something they are interested in they can be informed about where it stands and ask questions if they want to. It's kind of what I've been doing in a half-assed way. This way is fully assed.
That in itself would be a bit of work to set up and maintain but I think it is probably worth it because it will help me stay organized, too.
I think consolidating your development info is a great idea. Not everyone follows MBP on Facebook, and it's not always easy to spot a new development on the Projects page if you're not specifically looking for them. I hope you'll keep posting the periodic pictures of stuff, though -- even when they're not info-heavy, it's still fun to get excited about a cool-looking PCB.
Again, thanks for the chance to talk about this stuff. It's great to know that you're just as interested in your customers' input as you were at the start. Really looking forward to 2015.
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 19, 2014, 09:20:20 AM
Also us posting photos should give you rights to use them as "finished product photos" if you want to use them to show a finished product of your PCBs.
Respectfully, this doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Most of us (all of us?) use other photo-hosting services for our pictures here; if Brian's not providing space for the images, then there's no real reason he should have any claim to ownership of them. Personally, I think if he wanted to use someone's photo of their pedal, he can just ask them if it's okay. I can't imagine anyone would say no!
Organization is a tricky one sometimes, at least for me. (Some of us a filers, I'm a piler.) You can add sub forums, sticky threads, etc. but if its not immediately obvious, someone might not even know to look for those. Also context changes over time, and the info you're looking for might be buried in a thread that had nothing to do with that initially. I tend to bookmark things but find I rarely use them in favor of search.
So maybe an option to add "tags" to threads or posts? Might help the search function and take some of the worry away with regard to "where should I put this?" It doesn't really help the existing stuff but maybe there's a way they could be treated a bit like wikipedia, where people can edit the tags on older threads? I can see it getting crazy quickly but keeping things a bit general could help, ie "build report" "mods" "germanium" "tubes" "smd" "tutorial" "paint" "envirotex" "waterslide" "lifted pad" "desolder" etc
Maybe a list of 20-30 tags available when you create a post, and ability to add a custom one. Not sure how hard it would be to do this or if there's a script available but thought I'd put it out there.
And/or perhaps a way to add "personal" stickies to threads or posts we would like to keep for reference?
Also, how about an option for those of us with things to sell (pcb's, amps, guitars) to buy "advertising"? It doesn't have to be much, but why not? After all, there's a lot involved in maintaining a forum like this, and you've been very generous.
Anyway, thanks for all you do. There's a lot behind the scenes and its appreciated.
Quote from: lincolnic on December 19, 2014, 01:24:13 PM
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 19, 2014, 09:20:20 AM
Also us posting photos should give you rights to use them as "finished product photos" if you want to use them to show a finished product of your PCBs.
Respectfully, this doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Most of us (all of us?) use other photo-hosting services for our pictures here; if Brian's not providing space for the images, then there's no real reason he should have any claim to ownership of them. Personally, I think if he wanted to use someone's photo of their pedal, he can just ask them if it's okay. I can't imagine anyone would say no!
That's what I meant. I was trying to word it so it would makes sense and I still failed at it. I did not mean ownership but I meant if we post it in that section then its safe to say he can use it for "marketing". Ownership was the wrong word, sorry for the confusion.
Cody
Quote from: wgc on December 19, 2014, 01:52:01 PM
Also, how about an option for those of us with things to sell (pcb's, amps, guitars) to buy "advertising"? It doesn't have to be much, but why not? After all, there's a lot involved in maintaining a forum like this, and you've been very generous.
I am simultaneously for and against this.
I have a few ideas, but didn't have time to read this whole thread, so if someone has already suggested this, forgive me. I see a big problem a lot of people have is clarity, communication, expectations, ETC. I think having a scheduled AMA (ask me anything) chat with the bean each month would be cool. This would allow everyone to ask all of the questions they otherwise would email you about separately. I think this could be pretty efficient and if it were scheduled it would give everyone a chance to participate. I don't know the best way to do this (i'm sure other members can help with that, but the idea is a start.
Quote from: icecycle66 on December 19, 2014, 02:44:53 PM
Quote from: wgc on December 19, 2014, 01:52:01 PM
Also, how about an option for those of us with things to sell (pcb's, amps, guitars) to buy "advertising"? It doesn't have to be much, but why not? After all, there's a lot involved in maintaining a forum like this, and you've been very generous.
I am simultaneously for and against this.
"Advertising" might be the wrong way to describe this. Just thinking that if you sell something on here, you're gaining a solid audience and security you might not otherwise have. That's worth a few bucks imho and far safer/cheaper than some other options. Could be entirely honor system based.
Love the ama idea.
Quote from: morganp on December 19, 2014, 01:25:38 AM
I know this won't be popular, but I might suggest no release dates, implied or explicit. That removes false expectations for us, and I imagine takes the pressure off for you. We'd still like to hear what you're working on, but you could release as fluidly as you like without folks feeling like they're missing out.
I couldn't have said it better myself. I held off on posting to this thread until I saw lincolnic and others mention the release dates.
I think that all of us are so incredibly grateful that you're doing what you do, and that you put SO MUCH of yourself into MBP and to making MBP a really top notch place with a great community.
But I, like others, have been bummed by slipped release dates. I would much rather either hear about the background story (even in the smallest littlest way) to what you're up to than have a hard date that has to be changed out.
And I should say that I COMPLETELY understand how this happens. I have a couple of fairly simple builds that for friends that have been delayed over a year, due to life getting in the way, parts supply problems, etc. So I totally get it. But when you made your post, this was the number one thing that popped to mind.
Thanks for everything you've done Brian!
Quote from: junkemail86 on December 19, 2014, 11:32:51 AM
Consider posting any new available projects on your main page. To make sure there are no new projects I typically read through the project names to see if there is one I don't recognize
Yes! ditto this! I do the same thing!
How about an option to buy gift vouchers? This will help Brian with cash flow and help those who know you love Madbean stuff, but don't know exactly what to get as a gift? Just a thought...
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Quote from: agoldoor on December 22, 2014, 02:24:02 PM
Quote from: junkemail86 on December 19, 2014, 11:32:51 AM
Consider posting any new available projects on your main page. To make sure there are no new projects I typically read through the project names to see if there is one I don't recognize
Yes! ditto this! I do the same thing!
Better idea: Brian, you should be able to add a twitter widget so that those people who don't follow you on Twitter can see when you announce things.
How about a Madbean theremin?
We need s pedal like a delay and it needs to be called the madbean bean flicker!
Here's my suggestion for the "keeping the lights on" category. In the vein of the Fulltone Fulldrive clones and building off of the upcoming dirtbuddy release, how about a 2-in-1 PCB of the dirtbuddy and a mudbunny. The kingslayer and the mudbunny sound so good together that it makes sense and you've probably got most of the hard design work already done.
Call it the Dirt Bunny, Dirty Buddy Deluxe, Mud Buddy... you get the idea. Sure, anyone could just buy both separate PCB's, but they really do belong in the same box.
Stereo In / Stereo Out for us who are using pedals for stuff other than just guitar.
find a way for me to finally quit facebook and just check madbean all day. madface. madbook. facebean. madbook.
Theremin would be cool, no doubt.
Something like this would be cool.
http://www.moogmusic.com/products/moogerfoogers/mf-104m-super-delay
The moog thing with optional expression pedals for every knob is a great feature
Or this one. This one is at least cowboy level
http://www.moogmusic.com/products/modulars/emerson-moog-modular-system
Tesla level.
Quote from: peAk on December 23, 2014, 09:13:16 PM
Stereo In / Stereo Out for us who are using pedals for stuff other than just guitar.
I think a stereo out for time based effects would be awesome!
Quote from: dont-tase-me-bro on January 02, 2015, 06:31:59 PM
Something like this would be cool.
http://www.moogmusic.com/products/moogerfoogers/mf-104m-super-delay
The moog thing with optional expression pedals for every knob is a great feature
Haha. Yeah...that's not gonna happen. Have you ever seen the inside of that one?
Quote from: Lubdar on January 03, 2015, 11:51:17 AM
Quote from: peAk on December 23, 2014, 09:13:16 PM
Stereo In / Stereo Out for us who are using pedals for stuff other than just guitar.
I think a stereo out for time based effects would be awesome!
I agree. In fact, I am looking at adding a stereo out to the Dirtbag. I'd like one for the ZPSDX2 but I do not see any way of fitting it.
Quotefind a way for me to finally quit facebook and just check madbean all day. madface. madbook. facebean. madbook
+1 from me.
Actually, my request would be a cabinet simulator... There's plenty around, but I just want a GOOD one! No knobs, just unity in/out...
A Hiwatt-sounding circuit from Madbean. Or from Runoffgroove.
I guess then I'd be done with amp-in-box pedals.
Also, a Grease Gun with both less and more gain, more output, and independent treble, mid, bass controls.
+1 on the hiwatt.
+1 on the theremin. That'd be wild.
How about some compact 3PDT bypass boards? On board CLR, pads for LED, a couple extra pads for ground and +9V to make wiring easier..
Perhaps multi-packs with appropriate stomp switches.
I've tried a couple different boards for this. I'm not too keen on the ones from Mammoth. The ones from Guitar PCB are pretty rad.
I am missing a subforum listing all of Madbean's past and present (and maybe future?) projects.
The projects page only lists the currently available PCB's but sometimes I like to read about older projects and but it's not always easy to find. When you use the search function you usual only find build reports and troubleshooting threads.
Maybe this page or section exists and I just have never found it.
Edit:
Maybe having the Tech Help forum divided by Project would also be a nice way to find info about a particular pedal you are building. I know that there is the search function, but a system with tags for example is sometimes easier.
Check Haberdasher's thread on what he will etch from the old Madbean projects. He links to the build docs for them there, but Brian has his own discontinued project thread here:
Brian/Madbean: http://www.madbeanpedals.com/forum/index.php?topic=5134.0
Haberdasher: http://www.madbeanpedals.com/forum/index.php?topic=2038.0
That's great, thanks :-)
My wishes are thus fulfilled ;-)