I wasn't quite sure where to post this question so I'm posting it here. The challenge rules say this:

■Your entry must not be restricted in any way that could make it appear to be a demo / trial version for a subsequent "full" release. i.e. It must not be save-disabled or beep every few seconds or nag the user to donate / pay, etc. Your entry should be fully functioning and remain fully functioning forever.

If I interpret this correctly, it does not mean that I can't create some product for the comp, and then afterwards enhance it and start selling it right?

I'm doubtful that I will get anything off the ground before November, but on the off change that my stuff comes together, I'd like to submit a basic synth. However, this synth will be a long term project and I don't want to cut myself off from further development and then eventually money down the track.

Also, can we resubmit the same product next year? I'd say that next year, my thingy will be in pretty good shape.

If you check out some of the previous synth entrants from DC 06 07 , you will find a lot of other people suffered the same type of things as you are. Everyone has to start somewhere, so build a synth and keep it as minimal as you like but still a finished product in its own right kinda like a lite version without saying anything. Concerning releasing the same synth features but seperate from the DC, simply start a new GUI or change the name, just make sure its not too identical if you intend to use the DC compo to try your hand at Research and design with the end goal being sales of your products. Anyhow, good luck with your entry because I follow DC a lot, especially like Triple Cheese, Tube EQ 22 and Ferric TDS, and not forgetting leftover lasange EQ either, one of the best freeware emulations ever released.

Hmmm....

That's kinda what I've been thinking. But, exactly where would KVR draw the line?

This project is a long term goal and I'd hate to put hard work in to getting the UI right only to have to change everything later. Is what I am suggesting against the spirit of the competition?

I'm new to the comp and the philosophy behind it.

The point that I quoted from the comp rules in the OP is a bit ambiguous. I can't figure out if it is there to stop people from trying to use this comp as a launching pad for new products, or if it's merely there to stop people from entering products that eventually force the user to go out and buy the product because of a nag screen or something. What is the intention of that point? Could someone please clear this up?

I guess I ask this because I'm a developer who is just starting out, I will probably only ever have the opportunity to build one synth and this synth will be ongoing project. If I can't work that in with the comp, then I guess I shouldn't worry about entering.

one word - "PROTOTYPE" - FOR THE DEVELOPERS CHALLENGE ENTRY

Example, the follow up product will be based upon the "PROTOTYPE", but all following releases are not tied to this entry in anyway. Release a prototype with enough features and options but without need of any copy protection, so if you have some super FX DSP dont use it!!!, wait to see how your "PROTOTYPE" does, try checking out a private mail to de la mancha, Im sure they have DC entries and commercial products so maybe they could help you if you got in touch.


http://www.delamancha.co.uk/plugins.html

I think they released an FM synth in DC 07 which came 5th.