OK -- now that the 2014 Vegas Trek Convention is (barely) in the rear-view mirror, here are some details on the new Roddenberry Phaser Project -- which is not the same as The Wand Company phaser (which is also based on the G. Jein hero Phaser 2) -- as well as other props in the "Roddenberry Legacy Series" of new props. Think Master Replicas-type quality:
The Batleth sword is the first of the "Roddenberry Legacy" series of props. They ARE still working on a TOS Communicator (yes, it's a long-time coming) and are also working on a companion TOS Phaser that's been modeled on the Greg Jein hero.
Almost everything that's electronic -- from the least expensive USB phone charger that sells for a couple of bucks to giant HDTV sets is now made in China. For better or worse, it's the way of the world. With the Legacy Series, Rodd's group is trying to address ongoing demand for high-quality props but also MAINTAIN INVENTORY TO SELL -- a tough problem in the one-at-a-time world of prop recreations. In the past, they would order up a dozen or more piece and these would sell out immediately.
Having waited almost a year for fulfillment of a TOS Phaser Rifle, there's a limit to patience. Indeed, there is a missed opportunity by having a great product with no inventory to sell.
HMS built the painstaking copy of the Jein phaser that Rodd is now working to source from a Chinese factory that is skilled in building replicas (not unlike what Master Replicas did for their incredible recreations.) Rodd is trying to hit a "sweet spot" of an affordable price and pair that with a beautiful presentation -- nice box, nice pack-in information about the prop, etc. I saw the HMS Phaser 2 piece in Vegas, which was being kept under wraps. It is beautifully done -- with the twist-lock handle for batteries, removable P1, push-out emitter when P1 is inserted, lights, sound, etc. If the mass production version is anything like this prototype, then we're in for a treat!
I don't know enough about the Batleth to address its shortcomings, which have already been discussed on the board. I'm also not a TNG collector, but Rodd was showing the new Mark IX tricorder that will begin shipping in October. From its brushed aluminum and acrylic base to the included belt clip carrying case, it's a beautiful piece that is appropriately heavy and lights up when opened. It looks, well, "real."
Someone on another board suggested that there is flourishing community of artists who can build a perfect replica -- if you are willing to spend the money and wait for it. Thankfully, that remains true. But another option is eventually coming with the "Legacy Series" lineup.
Here's a link to a short video showing the MarkIX Tricorder (available October) in action:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImbPc5fL2LM&feature=youtu.be
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I held the prototype (from HMS) in my hands and saw how it disassembled -- just like the Master Replicas. The "push out the emitter" feature is a nice addition.
I don't know what sort of electronics package the finished piece will have, but clearly Rodd.com is aiming at something cheaper than $500 but more than the $150 that The Wand Company will charge for their beautiful TV remote.
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