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Girlzndollz · August 11th, 2009

In the many threads and posts, this information may have gotten buried, or lost. I am not sure I actually can find in one place, just a simple list of the differences. This is an important consideration and question for me.

For those of us who may be shopping the KNKMaxx and deciding between the KNKMaxx with KNK Studio Software or the KNKMaxx with ACS Studio software, it would be great to have bullet list.

I don't want to put anyone on the spot here,

, but hopefully SandyM would take the honors of listing the considerations out for me/us. Would that be okay, SandyMcC?

Also, for those of you out there who have used the demo for both, and have questions regarding the differences, or a good idea of what you think are important differences, this is a thread for you!

Hopefully SandyM can guide us thru this.

I am hoping the thread will be a great place to contain information solely to do with the software differences, for easy reference.

My thread topic first and foremost is:
What are the differences between the KNK Studio and the ACS Studio softwares?

This way, if I choose one or the other, I know exactly *why* I did that, *what* the sticking points are as to why I made that choice. Either why I don't want to spend the money on the extras, or why I do feel I need to spend the money on the extras.

Thank you SO much.

BML Builder · August 11th, 2009

Thanks Kelly!!! I have thought the very same thing. I don't want to spend more than what I really need. If the KNK software will do everything I want it to do then I don't want to buy the ACS software, but if the ACS software is what I really want then I don't want to buy the KNK software.

Girlzndollz · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by BML Builder


	Thanks Kelly!!! I have thought the very same thing. I don't want to spend more than what I really need. If the KNK software will do everything I want it to do then I don't want to buy the ACS software, but if the ACS software is what I really want then I don't want to buy the KNK software.

Thanks, Marilyn. The way you put it is exactly what I am thinking, too. Glad to know I am not the only one with this Q.

SandyMcC · August 11th, 2009

I assume, by now, you've watched one or more of the Rhinestone Tutorial videos I created for KNK Studio. So you have a general idea of how we can use the software to create rhinestone patterns.

ACS Studio has ALL of the same functions but also an additional feature which allows one to create patterns of lines to fill any image. There are various patterns from which to pick and you can, of course, select the distance between the lines according to the rhinestone size you plan to use. Then you can proceed to apply the circles to the pattern in our one step process. I can somewhat simulate some of these patterns, using other menu functions, but it's not as straight forward as using this feature directly and having the patterns all in one menu for previewing the effects with the image you are trying to fill... so that you can easily compare one to the other. Does that make sense?

In my opinion, the major reason to NOT buy KNK Studio at this point (besides the fact that it doesn't have drivers to cut to other machines), is that we are having future enhancements... future "bells and whistles" added to ACS Studio and they will not be present in KNK Studio.

Now, you may watch my videos and think to yourself, "Hey, I'm great with what Sandy shows. This will do everything I need!" But in reality, nine times out of ten, when a software comes out and it has cool new features, you find yourself REALLY wanting it... especially when others start buying it and talking about what all they can do with the new features.

For the casual home user, I do think a KNK Maxx with KNK Studio is a incredibe value because I've certainly been able to create what I've needed so far. For those who want to have a full rhinestone/vinyl/tackle twill business and compete with what owners of other machines/software can do, then a Falcon or Eagle with ACS Studio is the better answer.

So, I leave it up to each one of you to figure out, for yourself, what would work best for your needs and plans. And, of course, I'm here to answer your questions and provide support where I can.

BML Builder · August 11th, 2009

Thanks Sandy. My decision is not really about whether I want to go for the Eagle/Falcon or the KNK Maxx, but whether I want the KNK Maxx with the KNK software or the ACS software. I don't think I need the ability to run thousands of templates, but I would like to make some templates to make maybe thousands of designs for shirts, bags, etc. I just want to make sure that the software is going have the capabilites to make the right designs that I want to make.

SandyMcC · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by BML Builder


	Thanks Sandy. My decision is not really about whether I want to go for the Eagle/Falcon or the KNK Maxx, but whether I want the KNK Maxx with the KNK software or the ACS software. I don't think I need the ability to run thousands of templates, but I would like to make some templates to make maybe thousands of designs for shirts, bags, etc. I just want to make sure that the software is going have the capabilites to make the right designs that I want to make.

I completely understand! And it's great that we now offer that option of buying the Maxx with ACS Studio. I should have actually mentioned it as a third option in my post above but I spaced it out temporarily! lol

sjidohair · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by SandyMcC


	ACS Studio has ALL of the same functions but also an additional feature which allows one to create patterns of lines to fill any image. There are various patterns from which to pick and you can, of course, select the distance between the lines according to the rhinestone size you plan to use. Then you can proceed to apply the circles to the pattern in our one step process. I can somewhat simulate some of these patterns, using other menu functions, but it's not as straight forward as using this feature directly and having the patterns all in one menu for previewing the effects with the image you are trying to fill... so that you can easily compare one to the other. Does that make sense? In my opinion, the major reason to NOT buy KNK Studio at this point (besides the fact that it doesn't have drivers to cut to other machines), is that we are having future enhancements... future "bells and whistles" added to ACS Studio and they will not be present in KNK Studio. For the casual home user, I do think a KNK Maxx with KNK Studio is a incredibe value because I've certainly been able to create what I've needed so far. For those who want to have a full rhinestone/vinyl/tackle twill business and compete with what owners of other machines/software can do, then a Falcon or Eagle with ACS Studio is the better answer. So, I leave it up to each one of you to figure out, for yourself, what would work best for your needs and plans. And, of course, I'm here to answer your questions and provide support where I can.

Sandy,
Thank you for all of the posts that you have taken the time out to do for all of us, I can see your Honesty and Truly wanting to help Forum members make their own Decision, on what is right for them.
Once all the Facts are layed out!
You are a wonderful ray of sunshine in all this Confusion.
Thank you my Friend
Sandy Jo
MMM

Girlzndollz · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by SandyMcC


	I assume, by now, you've watched one or more of the Rhinestone Tutorial videos I created for KNK Studio. So you have a general idea of how we can use the software to create rhinestone patterns. ACS Studio has ALL of the same functions but also an additional feature which allows one to create patterns of lines to fill any image. There are various patterns from which to pick and you can, of course, select the distance between the lines according to the rhinestone size you plan to use. Then you can proceed to apply the circles to the pattern in our one step process. I can somewhat simulate some of these patterns, using other menu functions, but it's not as straight forward as using this feature directly and having the patterns all in one menu for previewing the effects with the image you are trying to fill... so that you can easily compare one to the other. Does that make sense? In my opinion, the major reason to NOT buy KNK Studio at this point (besides the fact that it doesn't have drivers to cut to other machines), is that we are having future enhancements... future "bells and whistles" added to ACS Studio and they will not be present in KNK Studio. Now, you may watch my videos and think to yourself, "Hey, I'm great with what Sandy shows. This will do everything I need!" But in reality, nine times out of ten, when a software comes out and it has cool new features, you find yourself REALLY wanting it... especially when others start buying it and talking about what all they can do with the new features. For the casual home user, I do think a KNK Maxx with KNK Studio is a incredibe value because I've certainly been able to create what I've needed so far. For those who want to have a full rhinestone/vinyl/tackle twill business and compete with what owners of other machines/software can do, then a Falcon or Eagle with ACS Studio is the better answer. So, I leave it up to each one of you to figure out, for yourself, what would work best for your needs and plans. And, of course, I'm here to answer your questions and provide support where I can.

Thanks alot, SandyM. So if I want to make a list of comparisons (which I do

) would you say this is accurate?

KNK Studio:

* Fill function is a multi step, manual process

ACS Studio:

* Automatic fill with (is it 6?) different patterns
* Set the distance between stones easily
* Periodic software enhancements
* 10 rhinestone fonts

I have been reading the other thread as it goes along, but with so many topics, this info became scattered on me. I just one to compile the list for those of us looking over the options. Just like buying a car. That will cost me what? Do I need it? Maybe I do. Then again, maybe it's just not that important overall.

I am not concerned about drivers for other cutters as I would be buying the KNKMaxx 24". This is to help me decide between the available software packages that are available with it.

Thanks so much, SandyMcC. I may go ahead and compile the list in the first post of this thread, for those who are looking for the low down on what is what. Thanks for helping me, and guiding me to that answer.

Girlzndollz · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by BML Builder


	Thanks Sandy. My decision is not really about whether I want to go for the Eagle/Falcon or the KNK Maxx, but whether I want the KNK Maxx with the KNK software or the ACS software. I don't think I need the ability to run thousands of templates, but I would like to make some templates to make maybe thousands of designs for shirts, bags, etc. I just want to make sure that the software is going have the capabilites to make the right designs that I want to make.

Yeah, exactly again, Marilyn. Me, too.

SandyMcC · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Girlzndollz


	Thanks alot, SandyM. So if I want to make a list of comparisons (which I do ) would you say this is accurate? KNK Studio: * Fill function is a multi step, manual process ACS Studio: * Automatic fill with (is it 6?) different patterns * Set the distance between stones easily * Software updates - Also, aren't there 10 rhinestone fonts that come with the ACS?

Yes... thank you! That's correct... ACS Studio also comes with the 10 rhinestone fonts. And I would change "updates" to "enhancements"... too often the word "updates" suggest "software fixes"... things that may or may not even apply to every day use of the software. I am optimistically hoping for new "bells and whistles!" I hope for fun cool additions to the software that make me eager to spend a weekend just exploring/testing them to figure out how they will make things easer and expand what we can design!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Girlzndollz


	Thanks so much, SandyMcC. I may go ahead and compile the list in the first post of this thread, for those who are looking for the low down on what is what. Thanks for helping me, and guiding me to that answer.

Sure! You're welcome! And I reserve the right to review the list and say, "Oops... I forgot something else!"

ashamutt · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by SandyMcC


	Yes... thank you! That's correct... ACS Studio also comes with the 10 rhinestone fonts. And I would change "updates" to "enhancements"... too often the word "updates" suggest "software fixes"... things that may or may not even apply to every day use of the software. I am optimistically hoping for new "bells and whistles!" I hope for fun cool additions to the software that make me eager to spend a weekend just exploring/testing them to figure out how they will make things easer and expand what we can design! Sure! You're welcome! And I reserve the right to review the list and say, "Oops... I forgot something else!"

To SandyMcC

Here is one more question....

Will all of the CURRENT(since Dec '08) owners of the KNK MAXX be able to "upgrade" to the ACS software? or be able to "purchase" it outright for their MAXX?

(sorry if I missed this)

Girlzndollz · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by SandyMcC


	... I would change "updates" to "enhancements"...

Will do.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SandyMcC


	Sure! You're welcome! And I reserve the right to review the list and say, "Oops... I forgot something else!"

Absolutely. I thank you, too.

Sandy, anytime there is something to add/revise/modify just say the word. I agree the best list is the list that's as accurate as can be.

SandyMcC · August 11th, 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by ashamutt


	To SandyMcC Here is one more question.... Will all of the CURRENT(since Dec '08) owners of the KNK MAXX be able to "upgrade" to the ACS software? or be able to "purchase" it outright for their MAXX? (sorry if I missed this)

If the software is made available to independently purchase, then any Maxx owners could certainly just buy it at the full retail price and it should cut to their Maxx. Whether or not there's any kind of upgrade discount remains to be seen. Remember that the Maxx owners do NOT receive a dongle... they have the two activation limit. So it really would require them to purchase, basically, a new copy of the software. Also, ACS Studio doesn't automatically save in .knk format. You can export in many formats that will import into KNK Studio, but the majority of my paper crafting community would be hesitant to switch because they share so many of their .knk files at the various Yahoo groups. It's part of the KNK community to do this because they are almost exclusivesly using their KNKs for hobby applications.

Now things are different over here in T-Shirt World.

I could see where someone buying a Maxx with KNK Studio might decide they really want ACS Studio down the line, if the enhancements allow for more interesting or easy designing. So, I think we'll have to do a wait and see based on what the enhancements are and how much it costs us to provide the sofware and the updates.

BML Builder · August 12th, 2009

Thank you again Kelly for starting this thread and thinking the same way I have been!!! And thank you SandyMc for all of your info, help, and support for helping us make a well informed decision of which machine and software we need to do what we want.

Girlzndollz · August 12th, 2009

Hi SandyM.

Thanky-thanky for all the info so far.

I have two more, if that's okay.

1. Is there a difference in license between the KNK and ACS studio that would affect commercial sales of finished products, either the templates or the motifs?

2. I am really interested in the visual difference between the fills. I saw the cat design on your site for the rhinestone template and how the fill was done. I have not seen the "auto" fill finished look from the ACS.....

Is there a chance that you may be able to take the same design, and do a "fill" with the KNK Studio, and then do a "fill" with the ACS studio - and then post them side by side?

My main question is, do they look different? I do like when a design has a nice symmetrical fill, and if the KNK is a little half-hazzard, and the ACS more professional looking, that may be the deciding factor for me. If they are fairly close, and not significantly different, then it won't matter to me.

Have you seen both in person? If you think that they are really, really close, so close it's not worth showing, then I trust your word for it, and for me, unless others may want to see, I can skip it. But on the other hand, if you think they do have a different appearance, would you mind and would you be able to show us?

We can't demo the ACS so there's no way to see the fill. I know that others have the ACS, but my main thing is to see the fill on the *same exact* design. So I could see if I was doing, say, the cat design... I could see how with the KNK the fill would look one way, and with the ACS, it would look another way. Then I could see if it is that big of deal or not to me. This is an important feature to me, since I'm a really symmetrical person, even my furniture and designs lean heavily to symmetry by nature. If I know I can get a prettier fill with the ACS, that'll be important.

Sorry so long. I am just trying to be as clear as I can, I know sometimes I am not. If you think the end result is different enough to warrant doing the test, and you have any questions for me at all, in case I was confusing, I'll check in back and forth all afternoon.

Thanks so much just for taking the time to read this, Sandy!!

I think the license will be huge for me, as well, so I am really interested in that question, too. Actually, if you can not resell what you make with KNK Studio, don't even bother with question number 2 (the fill comparison) until I figure out if I even want to deal with that issue. No matter what level of template production one is looking at, being able to sell product *legally* is a big purchasing point. Not sure what good for home use only will really be for me. Thanks alot!

Have a great day.

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