Boss Kut Gazelle: The Set Up

The first thing I’d like to point out is that this is not a plug and play machine.  When I started to pair it to my laptop, I wasn’t happy to see 4 page step by step guide just to have you computer to recognize it.  It’s not hard to follow these instructions and there’s even a video online.  Anyone can set it up but it took over 10 minutes.  My opinion is that it’s pop in a driver disc or plug in the machine and it should be automatically recognized.   Good thing, you only have to do this once.  If your computer crashes and you don’t have online access, you better keep those instructions

Note:  I knew this coming into the purchase, but it’s still a negative I want to point out.  The cutting software the Gazelle comes with is called Funtime which will only run if you plug in a USB security key called a Dongle.  The purpose of is to prevent people distributing illegal copies of the program.   For the user it’s a USB plug hoarder.  I only have 2 USB ports on my laptop and one has to be connected to the cutter.  I need a mouse in order to design.  Looks like I’m investing in a USB hub.  For me, I plan to learn Funtime until I recoup my investment on this machine with sales. Who knows, maybe it’s the best program for me .  There are a few cutting software on the market that is more user friendly.  That’s okay, I’m up for the challenge. 

Next step: Making the first test cut!

Boss Kut Gazelle: The Unboxing

I borrowed a US mailbox since shipping was free in the continental US. Please note, due to the larger size of the shipping box, I had to pay more in the receipt fee. Normally it’s $3 but I had to reimburse $10 when we went over the border for pick up.

I was so excited and couldn’t wait to open it! I neglected to take take photos. It’s not that much different then what Under a Cherry Tree experienced here. The main difference is her cutter was packed in a big styrofoam clamshell. Mine just had endcaps and was easy to pull out.

Here it is! Yes, I already tested it. The heart was a very clean cut, great on the first try!

Impression

Footprint: The cutter compact but is wider then expected. I should have paid attention at the specs. It didn’t fit in the space I was originally planning to store it. Since I’m learning to use it’ll stay on my work table for now.

Weight: Pleasantly surprised how light it is. Roughly 10 pounds. This is a plus when you need to move it out of the way

Feel: The pink end caps are plastic and the white casings is powder coated metal. It’s sturdy and don’t feel ‘cheap’. The underside is looks like it’s galvanized steel.

Extra Storage: Before we built our house, it was a pet peeve to store the extra blades for with my paper trimmers and rotary cutters. I’d forget where I put them. The Gazelle has two hidden drawers to store small accessories. The blades are tiny and there’s a security key (will mention in a later post) that comes with the included software so it’s perfect to store them in the machine. If you lose that key, you won’t be able to use the software.

Look: I was surprised the branding is a sticker. From my experience in the high tech manufacturing industry, I expected this to be screen printed so everyone seeing it will know the company. It’s good for me though, I like the option to remove it. I’m going to put my logo on it when I learn how to die cut vinyl.

There is a minor cosmetic flaw on my machine. There’s unevenness on the inside where you open the drawers. This is present on both ends. Doesn’t affect the machine itself, it’s something that I notice because of my manufacturing background. The door closes normally

Blades: When I ordered, Boss Kut included an extra 12 inch cutting mat, an extra blade and vinyl blade as part of the preorder sale. I have an issue with the blades, both in were seal in the same bag so I don’t know which is which.

I’m pointing this out really because something like this should be more clear. What if I didn’t pay attention to the packlist and used the wrong blade?

In closing, I was impressed with the machine because even with the cosmetic flaw and sticker branding, it felt sturdy. Also I like how it’s minimalist footprint for what it should be capable of doing. Next step, setting up the machine!

Boss Kut Gazelle: Placing the Order

When I decided for this machine, the Boss Kut website stated their machine was on preorder and wouldn’t ship until January 1st, 2013.  I wanted the machine before Christmas so I looked around and they were out of stock everywhere!  The retailer I found it at was charging $600!  No way!  So went for the preorder.

The website isn’t as fancy as the more mainstream ones like Cricut, Cameo or even a lesser known like Pazzle with nice landing pages with flash pictures that change every 3 seconds to showcase their products.  To be blunt, they need to revamp the website to showcase their product properly.  The layout is cluttered and there’s inconsistent font type and size.  A retail website is supposed to draw you in to buy more. 

The price was $389 with $30 deposit.

When I did manage to place the deposit of $30, I didn’t realize it but it invoiced me something link $8 shipping.  So I emailed them.  They acknowledge their error and asked if I wanted to apply to the final payment, which I said ‘no problem.’  At the end of it, they just charged me $30 and then $359 when they shipped.

Clearly the company is more focused on their customer service and product (which is a great thing) which does make up for a website but did make me wonder what I was getting myself into. However, I’m convinced this is still right choice.  I’m committed.  I already have the machine!