Two siblings, one DNA: RC1 for accessibility, R1 for mastery

We want to share some thoughts with you about the upcoming Ghost RC1

As you know, the R1 journey has been long and demanding — not just technically, but also financially. Every decision we make now has to balance two things: delivering the best possible product and ensuring that LOUQE can keep moving forward.

RC1 is part of that balance

It is not about hiding or walking away from R1 issues. We have been transparent about reported problems, and RMA cases have been — and will continue to be — handled with care and fairness. But it’s important to understand that an endless RMA program would jeopardize the company itself. At some point, we all need to zoom out and see the larger picture: the survival and growth of LOUQE depends on making financially sustainable choices.

RC1 is also about broadening who can own a Ghost

At roughly half the cost of R1, at €149 EUR MSRP, RC1 makes the Ghost design accessible to a different audience — not with lower expectations, but with a smaller budget. It carries the same DNA, the same design philosophy, and the same spirit, but in a form that is financially realistic for more people.

This is how we see the road ahead: learning from R1, improving with RC1, and building a stronger foundation for the future. The two are not competing — R1 remains the flagship, and RC1 development will directly support it. These sibling cases share many components, and future improvements will flow both ways. This only works if we share some ownership of the journey together.

We are grateful for the support, feedback, and passion that has brought us here

Without this community, there would be no LOUQE. Ghost RC1 is the next chapter, built on both the struggles and the strengths of R1.

See you out there,
— Team LOUQE