[Ian Iveson]

Ian Thompson-Bell wrote:

Agreed. At Neve there were standard systems in place for
the physical framework design/build, silk screening, key
cap engraving, with standard screened modules, mix bus
extrusion and power and signal routing. Which is why I
used the phrase *at least*. I just wanted the OP to have a
ball park figure to contemplate.

One problem small producers have in making the transition to
medium- or large-sized companies is the tendency for capital
to gravitate towards greater profit. You find you don't have
the option of sacrificing profit for quality, often not
because customers won't buy, but because capital ups sticks
and marches off to greener pastures, leaving you insolvent.

As Marx pointed out; if you're not moving forward, you're
moving back. There is no comfortable half way.

None of which quite follows your comment...oh well.

cheers, Ian