Jim, don't remember what machine you are running but a PCI USB card will let you use a USB keyboard.
I couldn't agree more with you on the old extended keyboard which I use everyday. I have an extra which came with my Performa and I intend to hang on to that one to use when this one goes South.
When I visit my folks and have to use the cheap, lightweight, clackity keyboard that came with the eMac, I can't wait to get back to mine. Not only does it have a real solid feel but it is much quieter. It's a big adjustment using the folks' board as the keys are closer together and I end up making a lot of mistakes. (yes, it IS the keyboards's fault
)
Do love the keyboard on my Wallstreet though. That soft-touch was never done better.