background - purchased an Anet A8 from the"factory" - within a week - the SD card slot failed. I had never been able to connect it via USB and Repetier ( using 21inch 2011 Apple iMac running current and updated Sierra 10.12.4) After being refused a free replacement - the attitude changed when I advised a PP case would follow. After another 2 weeks I got it. And I Facebook tip got me a new driver - not apparently available on the Repetier websites downloads.
Meanwhile I had ordered a second A8 ( full spares kit was the thought!) at a reduced intro price offer. A8 - 1, when connected via USB /Repetier… starts too print about 20mm above the bed. Put the same g-Code file on the SD card… prints fine - but I lose the USB - unless somebody knows a cure. A8+1 had problems with the Z drive rods. I think the turning machine broke down and they were finished off by a monkey with an hammer and chisel - two weeks on waiting for BangGood to send out new drive rods and Brass T bearings. IF I try to run teh snagged rods - the left Z motor cannot start up - I am guessing the pits and bumps are stopping smooth motion - even after some patient work with sandpaper ( the fine grain stuff for metal) and a liberal coating of silicone grease.
So with that in mind and the future looking grim if something else fails - I remembered a YT vid of Joe at some faire and showing the - then new kit which allows additional extruders - mutuality colour prints. Delivered to Aussie it about us$1300.
So I was seriously considering getting one on order… then I see on a none specific brand Facebook page a couple of posts where the multi nozzle set up - clogged up and created havoc. So in such a situation - is the guy left to sort it out without advice - or is there a support team?
Is this kit a seriously complicated starter for a newbie?
anybody been in my situation and can offer some advice - which will be appreciated.
The multi color upgrade is not available yet. They are working on improvements. It is only out to beta testers so the clogging etc. info may be more speculation more than anything else.
The kit is not for everyone but the documentation is good and there is a lot of support available. The kit is challenging but very doable.
I bought the MK2S kit for US699 and managed to assemble it in 19 hours total (with no prior experience in any forms of assembly). The online documentation for the assembly is very detailed and be sure to read the comments that other users made as well. I reckon it would be better to assemble it yourself so that you can learn how to troubleshoot or upgrade it in the future.
I agree with what you say, after building two A8s, it does seem easier to spot things maybe going adrift or "not quite right!.
Its also nice to save the $200 (cost of a third A8!)
I think it will be that I get the kit and build it. I am not in a major rush to build it as fast as possible when it arrives… I have these A8’s to “play” with till its done. The “saved” $200 will cover add on’s and stuff I don’t know about yet.
Hi Zoe, Thanks for that information. maybe you can check this link and tell me if you supply is better and not more expensive. I think shipping Filament a long distance make it too expensive.
