What’s your favorite trombone case?

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2018-03-23 6:57 p.m.

I'm going to talk gig bags (the ones I have owned thus far):

1. Altieri (my favorite): Great slide protection. So-so bell protection. Huge pocket that can take a music folder, a trombone stand, a wire stand, and a week's change in underwear. There is another small pocket inside the big one that can take mouthpiece, water spray, couple of lubricants, and some clothespins. Problems: If you overload the case and insist on using the shoulder strap you can rip the strap holder from the case. Have had zipper problems after a few years of steady use. Don't fly with this one, or put it in the luggage compartment of a bus.

2. Tuxedo: Fair slide protection (better when you load the slide insert so the board is outward). Little bell protection. Small pocket that can take mouthpiece, slide sprayer, lubricants, and not much more. An old design that should be used when you will have the bag with you all the time. Will fit in the overhead of most planes, but if they make you gate check it, watch out!!

3. Reunion Blues (original Cronkite): Fair slide protection (better when you load the slide insert so the board is outward), so-so bell protection (about the same as Altieri). A small pouch is provided that will allow you to put in a mouthpiece or three, sprayer, lubes, etc. but it has no fixed location and can move around inside the bag. Will fit in many airplane overheads, but I would never gate check it.

4. TKL. Similar to Tuxedo bag in appearance and function, but bell protection is better (comparable to Cronkite/Reunion). Small pocket for sprayer, mouthpiece, and lubes. Same caveats as Reunion Blues.

Note that all 4 of the bags above allow me to keep a "convertible" cup mute in the bell (or a practice mute or an in-bell stand).

5. (Watch out for this one) the bag that sells for between $15 and $30 on Ebay. Comes in several colors, notably black, blue, and red. NO slide protection. NO bell protection. Backpack straps are nearly useless. Nowhere to put a mouthpiece, sprayer, or anything else. It's cheap for a reason!

blast · by **blast** » 2018-03-23 7:07 p.m.

A carbon fiber bass case that I got from Irvin Karin. I don't want to start an excuse to hit his business.... I bought the case.... it was cheap... years on, still my best case ever.... happy customer..... your milage may vary.

Chris

Neo_Bri · by **Neo_Bri** » 2018-03-23 9:34 p.m.

I like:

Eastman

Cronhkite

Basili

Bonna

Really, I guess my favorite are the old-style Reunion Blues with the slide pocket on the outside of the bell bag. Classy, and it stands on its own on the bell. The best.

whitbey · by **whitbey** » 2018-03-23 10:22 p.m.

I love my tan Edwards cases. The retro look is cool.

I took out the box near the bell and have all kinds of room for music and the water bottle.

hyperbolica · by **hyperbolica** » 2018-03-23 10:33 p.m.

I've got a 1984 Reunion Blues brown leather end loading slide bag that is starting to show its age. I've babied it, and it has stayed nice. Not incredibly protective or functional, but I love it.

I also have an Altieri soft case for my bass. The materials should all be a little thicker, and the straps sturdier. It was cheap and has some interesting features, again not very protective.

I also have an old protec soft case I got with a horn. I think these are the best value for the price. I also got a nice Protec hard case with a new Kanstul bass. The case is very nice, but a bit heavy.

If I had to buy a new one I'd probably get an Eastman or a Protec. I don't want to spend too much on a case, so a fancy Marcus Bonna or Basili is out of the question for me. I prefer utilitarian, but light. I try to be easy on my equipment.

PaKETaZ · by **PaKETaZ** » 2018-03-24 3:28 a.m.

Dayly use: Protec MX306CTS for my tenor; Bam 3030S for my Bb/F. Protective enough and very very light for going to rehearsals in the trunk.

When I have to throw my trombone in the trailer with all the band’s equipment (a 7 pieces band with keyboards, drums, percussion, guitars...): my Eastman CE176. Works great for tenors and Bb/Fs and feels like a tank.

Matt_K · by **Matt_K** » 2018-03-24 11:09 a.m.

I really dig the Eastman tenor cases. I even had my valve section for my Shires made especially to fit inside one as the default implementation of Shires valves does not fit by default. Although I understand there have been an umber of iterations over the years and some of the newer ones do fit the Shires rotary.

I also have a Cronkhite double case (bass/bass) that I really like. I normally only carry one horn but two slides in it. It still fits tenors fine although I have a little pillow in it so that if I put a smaller horn in it, they won't bump around and get damaged. I much prefer the cordua to the leather for these.

SKB462 is also high on my list. Mega protective but not heavy in the least!

Dennis · by **Dennis** » 2018-03-24 8:38 p.m.

The old Bach French-style cases. They were compact, protected the instrument well and didn't weigh a ton. They also aren't made any more :(

Among today's cases, I have a Protec Propack (tenor) for my 36B and an Eastman for my bass. The thing I like about the Protec is the big pocket on the side that holds my UMI stand, but I'm thinking about having my Bach French case repaired (tightened up generally, a new valance made, and covered in real leather), even though it wouldn't have a stand pocket.

Hawaiyan · by **Hawaiyan** » 2018-06-16 12:38 a.m.

I've used Eastman, Gator, KTL(similar to Protec Pro Pac) for both tenor and bass, but my favorite is DAC cases, NX-1s for tenor and NX-2s for bass. DAC cases are made in Japan and are very well made! The inside padding and blocks are adjustable using velcro to hold it in place to fit almost any horn . When I first started using this case I was skeptical, being that the padding and blocks were not fixed, but it was the only lightweight case that would fit my customized tenor. I've had the tenor version for 5 years and was so impressed I recently bought one for my bass!

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2018-06-16 3:01 a.m.

I've used Bam Classic X2, Protec (2nd gen) X2, Eastman, Giardinelli (Reunion Blues?), SKB 360, and Bonna standard bass, extra-light tenor, and screwbell bass.

The Bonna cases are the best all around, at being well built, light, small, protective, comfortable on the back, and having good storage. Most of the other cases did several of these things well, but all or enough of them.

Eastman look great and are small and light, but annoyingly loud (straps banging around), not comfortable on the back, and have almost no storage inside.

Protec are cheap, pretty protective, and have lots of storage, but are heavy and large for what they are. My Bonna bass case is smaller and lighter than the Protec standard tenor case.

BAM Classics were good bass cases, but both had zipper issues, and the outside music pocket wasn't ever large enough. I also had a friend get his bell really crunched in one.

I do love my SKB 360, which I think is an older model. It's tiny, light, and unassuming. Perfect for a small horn and protective enough.

Geordie · by **Geordie** » 2018-06-16 3:08 a.m.

Gard Wheelie bag. Good protection. Takes a tbone stand, wire music stand, music and pockets for mps, fluids, creams, ties, batteries and all other ancillary objects. It’s on wheels, think golf bag, adjustable handle and grab straps but with shoulder straps too. Would not be without it.

sirisobhakya · by **sirisobhakya** » 2018-06-16 9:32 p.m.

I am using a trombone case made by DAC, Japan. The design is sleek, it has backpack-style strap, and it is quite durable as well; I involuntarily tested it many times by riding bicycle under low rail overpass and the bell section slammed against the bridge girder. Two downsides are: 1. The accessory pocket is a little on the small side. I can only manage to cram two mouthpieces (one in its pouch), slide lube, rotor spindle oil, and slide cleaning cloth into it. 2. the shell is a bit thin, and there is almost no space between slide crook and the shell, so I would not trust it to be loaded into airplane cargo hold. (I would use my original Yamaha case instead when I fly next week.). Apart from that, everyday use is fine.

Jimprindle · by **Jimprindle** » 2018-06-17 3:19 p.m.

For my bass trombone, Bonna for over 10 years now. I have had several RU bags and BAM. Bonna fits in the overhead of most planes, great protection, light, easy to carry.

For my King Silversonic 3B, I love the classic coffin alligator style case. Inefficient, I know. Retrograde rocks.

DutchGuy · by **DutchGuy** » 2018-07-07 5:04 p.m.

I haven't tried that many, but I ended up buying the 'Thomann Trekking Case', backpack version. For those unfamilliar with it: Thomann is a large german music store with their own line of pretty much everything. Their cases are generally incredibly cheap yet very durable. I bought one of their trumpet cases about 10 years ago. it's being used nearly every day and it's still as new. A year ago I got this trombone case, and no complaints so far, except that you cannot fit a stand in it.

MalecHeermans · by **MalecHeermans** » 2018-08-29 3:56 p.m.

My Bonna standard tenor is the best case I've ever owned by quite a margin.

trombonanza · by **trombonanza** » 2018-08-31 10:14 p.m.

I just got an Accord Ultralight for my Bach Artisan tenor. All carbon fiber so it's even lighter than a gig bag but also the most protective material on the market. Interior has enough room for mouthpiece, BERP, grip, rotor oils, and even a place for some music and books. Pricey, but I don't think there's anything better. If only they made a double case...

Bassbonechandler · by **Bassbonechandler** » 2018-08-31 11:20 p.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]I've used Bam Classic X2, Protec (2nd gen) X2, Eastman, Giardinelli (Reunion Blues?), SKB 360, and Bonna standard bass, extra-light tenor, and screwbell bass.

The Bonna cases are the best all around, at being well built, light, small, protective, comfortable on the back, and having good storage. Most of the other cases did several of these things well, but all or enough of them.[/quote]

I have a pro tec case for my bass that's rather heavy and I'm looking for something lighter but still protective. Should I go for the bonna or a cronkhite flight bag?

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2018-09-01 12:43 a.m.

Definitely the Bonna for everyday use.

Bassbonechandler · by **Bassbonechandler** » 2018-09-01 7:15 a.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]Definitely the Bonna for everyday use.[/quote]

Cool thanks!

Jgittleson · by **Jgittleson** » 2018-09-01 9:14 a.m.

Ive always liked reunion blues/Cronkite bags. Nice thick hide, good padding, never had as issue. I actually just picked up a leftover g series bass bag in leather from edwards for $175. It was a nice surprise since the listing is for cordura, and for that price id consider it a deal.

TromboneMonkey · by **TromboneMonkey** » 2018-09-02 6:09 p.m.

For a small horn, I'd have a hard time paying for anything more expensive than an SKB case for the protection and warranty one gets for the price of one.

Bassbonechandler · by **Bassbonechandler** » 2018-09-26 6:37 a.m.

[quote="trombonanza"]I just got an Accord Ultralight for my Bach Artisan tenor. All carbon fiber so it's even lighter than a gig bag but also the most protective material on the market. Interior has enough room for mouthpiece, BERP, grip, rotor oils, and even a place for some music and books. Pricey, but I don't think there's anything better. If only they made a double case...[/quote]

Where did you get yours from?

trombonanza · by **trombonanza** » 2018-09-30 6:22 p.m.

[quote="Bassbonechandler"]<QUOTE author="trombonanza" post_id="66698" time="1535768054" user_id="3599">
I just got an Accord Ultralight for my Bach Artisan tenor. All carbon fiber so it's even lighter than a gig bag but also the most protective material on the market. Interior has enough room for mouthpiece, BERP, grip, rotor oils, and even a place for some music and books. Pricey, but I don't think there's anything better. If only they made a double case...[/quote]

Where did you get yours from?
</QUOTE>

I bought mine from Irvin Karan through SlideBone.com. It took a few months due since they're made to order and have to go through US customs but it was well worth the wait.

Redthunder · by **Redthunder** » 2018-10-16 9:17 a.m.

I used a Reunion Blues Double case for a while, and I love it because even thought it's a soft case, it's very well padded and I never had any issues, even when it was dropped and on multiple occasions slipped on ice and fell right on top of it. Also has lots of room in case you only need one horn, I usually stuck a trombone stand and some books, and a small bag full of slide stuff in the side I wasn't using for a horn.

This year I changed to a Pro-Tec ProPac case because I wanted something smaller, and something sturdier to fly or travel with, and I pretty much never need two horns anymore. I love this case, with the exception of the backpack straps. The design is such so that the clasp will sometimes pop off if you knock it the wrong way, but some other users on here told me to wrap a zip tie through the clasp and since then I've had no problems.

BurckhardtS · by **BurckhardtS** » 2018-10-17 2:00 a.m.

I used an Eastman case for my Edwards T396A and I had no real serious issues with it, other than it was super noisy. It flies well, it's a small case, although slightly unergonomical. I bought a Cronkhite 'travel' gig bag for it and LOVE how light it is, but it is well protected and also flies well (don't ever check this bag... goes without saying). If I could have one for my small tenor, I would, but I don't want to spend more on my case than I do the instrument (Yamaha 354).

SoVTTb · by **SoVTTb** » 2018-10-18 1:02 p.m.

It isn't the cushiest, but credit where credit is due, my Eastman case has taken a beating and has protected three horns well.

It's gone across the Atlantic a couple times (once gate checked, horror of horrors), been dropped onto concrete, and run into traffic signs at normal bicycling speed, and has kept my bell unscathed and slide aligned through it all.

Plus you get shiny colors.

Zandit75 · by **Zandit75** » 2018-10-18 8:16 p.m.

[quote="Redthunder"]This year I changed to a Pro-Tec ProPac case because I wanted something smaller, and something sturdier to fly or travel with, and I pretty much never need two horns anymore. I love this case, with the exception of the backpack straps. The design is such so that the clasp will sometimes pop off if you knock it the wrong way, but some other users on here told me to wrap a zip tie through the clasp and since then I've had no problems.[/quote]

How are you finding the velco straps for the handle and the slide internally?

Mine are just about flogged out, and barely hold in place anymore.

looking to take it to an upholsterer to get it replaced with a better quality velco.

Redthunder · by **Redthunder** » 2018-10-19 9:44 a.m.

[quote="Zandit75"]

How are you finding the velco straps for the handle and the slide internally?

Mine are just about flogged out, and barely hold in place anymore.

looking to take it to an upholsterer to get it replaced with a better quality velco.[/quote]

The handle straps are fine as of right now. However I don't seem to have any internal velcro straps for the slide section. Do you have a different version of the ProPac? The only strap I have on the inside is for the bell section, and that's a clasp, not velcro.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2018-10-19 12:19 p.m.

Altieri. Solid slide protection, adequate bell protection, and tons of room for other stuff.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2018-10-19 1:02 p.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]Altieri. Solid slide protection, adequate bell protection, and tons of room for other stuff.[/quote]

They no longer make trombone cases. :frown:

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2018-10-19 1:33 p.m.

I had a Cronkhite double bag. The construction and quality was fantastic, but the design was not. The second you stored it in a locker, you were in for a world of hurt for whatever bell section was upside down. Oil would go into the tuning crook, and it would turn into honey, even if it was all Hetmans, and that was that.

I really like the Edwards 396A case, and my Ritter gig bag works just fine.

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2018-10-19 1:42 p.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]<QUOTE author="norbie2018" post_id="69672" time="1539965940" user_id="2978">
Altieri. Solid slide protection, adequate bell protection, and tons of room for other stuff.[/quote]

They no longer make trombone cases. :frown:
</QUOTE>

Their is nothing I saw on their website that indicates they're done making them. They are also for sale at Dillon's etc.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2018-10-19 2:51 p.m.

[quote="norbie2018"]<QUOTE author="Burgerbob" post_id="69677" time="1539968556" user_id="3131">

They no longer make trombone cases. :frown:[/quote]

Their is nothing I saw on their website that indicates they're done making them. They are also for sale at Dillon's etc.
</QUOTE>

I just emailed them about a new case. Their trombone bag maker just left the company and they don't have a replacement.

BGuttman · by **BGuttman** » 2018-10-19 2:56 p.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]<QUOTE author="norbie2018" post_id="69683" time="1539970925" user_id="2978">

Their is nothing I saw on their website that indicates they're done making them. They are also for sale at Dillon's etc.[/quote]

I just emailed them about a new case. Their trombone bag maker just left the company and they don't have a replacement.
</QUOTE>

I have 2 Altieri trombone bags that need new zippers and on their site they say they don't replace zippers on trombone (and some other) bags :weep:

norbie2018 · by **norbie2018** » 2018-10-19 3:14 p.m.

[quote="Burgerbob"]<QUOTE author="norbie2018" post_id="69683" time="1539970925" user_id="2978">

Their is nothing I saw on their website that indicates they're done making them. They are also for sale at Dillon's etc.[/quote]

I just emailed them about a new case. Their trombone bag maker just left the company and they don't have a replacement.
</QUOTE>

That's wild - they have only one person who specializes in making trombone cases. If you want one of their stock cases I'd imagine retailers should have some in stock. That's a bummer - I really like mine and have had it for over 20 years.

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2018-10-19 3:28 p.m.

I wanted a custom bag for my contra, since they were one of the few (or only, other than Cronkhite/Torpedo) options for that.

He did say that if they get someone, they'll start that back up.

King2bPlus · by **King2bPlus** » 2018-10-20 12:04 a.m.

WolfPak w/legs, Great protection for slide and bell. Room for a mute in the bell and a mpc and slide lubricant in the bottom compartment. Solid case.

Zandit75 · by **Zandit75** » 2018-10-21 8:12 p.m.

[quote="Redthunder"]<QUOTE author="Zandit75" post_id="69646" time="1539908168" user_id="3181">

How are you finding the velco straps for the handle and the slide internally?

Mine are just about flogged out, and barely hold in place anymore.

looking to take it to an upholsterer to get it replaced with a better quality velco.[/quote]

The handle straps are fine as of right now. However I don't seem to have any internal velcro straps for the slide section. Do you have a different version of the ProPac? The only strap I have on the inside is for the bell section, and that's a clasp, not velcro.
</QUOTE>

Looks like they have had a design change recently.

This is a picture taken from Amazon, and it shows a different strap for the valve section, mine is just a thinner piece of velcro that wraps around the valve section to secure it snuggly.

The flap section that holds the slide is the same though, and that velcro section is losing it's grip. The wraparound velcro strap for the carry handles is also getting sloppy.

Redthunder · by **Redthunder** » 2018-10-22 9:44 a.m.

[quote="Zandit75"]Looks like they have had a design change recently.

This is a picture taken from Amazon, and it shows a different strap for the valve section, mine is just a thinner piece of velcro that wraps around the valve section to secure it snuggly.

The flap section that holds the slide is the same though, and that velcro section is losing it's grip. The wraparound velcro strap for the carry handles is also getting sloppy.[/quote]

I think we may have been talking about different models.

~~[url]~~<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.amazon.com/Protec-IP306CT-T ... GP1NJBE9V6">https://www.amazon.com/Protec-IP306CT-Tenor-Trombone-IPAC/dp/B016521PN2/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_267_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=VG4RAMGR51GP1NJBE9V6</LINK_TEXT>

That's the case I have, and it looks very different inside from the one I think you're describing. I called mine a Pro-Pac because it's printed somewhere on the case but it looks like it's actually called an IPAC or something.

Zandit75 · by **Zandit75** » 2018-10-22 8:33 p.m.

[quote="Redthunder"]<QUOTE author="Zandit75" post_id="69780" time="1540167178" user_id="3181">
Looks like they have had a design change recently.

This is a picture taken from Amazon, and it shows a different strap for the valve section, mine is just a thinner piece of velcro that wraps around the valve section to secure it snuggly.

The flap section that holds the slide is the same though, and that velcro section is losing it's grip. The wraparound velcro strap for the carry handles is also getting sloppy.[/quote]

I think we may have been talking about different models.

~~[url]~~<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.amazon.com/Protec-IP306CT-T ... GP1NJBE9V6">https://www.amazon.com/Protec-IP306CT-Tenor-Trombone-IPAC/dp/B016521PN2/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_267_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=VG4RAMGR51GP1NJBE9V6</LINK_TEXT>

That's the case I have, and it looks very different inside from the one I think you're describing. I called mine a Pro-Pac because it's printed somewhere on the case but it looks like it's actually called an IPAC or something.
</QUOTE>

All good, there's too many options!!

Driswood · by **Driswood** » 2018-10-29 8:47 a.m.

I recently purchased a Gard 21-MLK Leather Tenor Bag. I love it!! It has a suspension system (2 foam U shaped pads, a cone attached to the bell end that fits inside the bell, and a foam pad that is against the tuning slide) The U shaped pads are adjustable. This system suspends your bell so it doesn't set against the outside of the case. The slide compartment is well padded, with a piece of plywood sewn in to avoid flexing. Very well padded. Straps are removable, and can be setup to carry over one shoulder, or like a backpack.

$239 in black leather, $159 in Cordura with leather trim. Musician's Friend had a special when I ordered mine - 15% off w/ free shipping. $203 shipped!

Links to Gard and Musician's Friend

<LINK_TEXT text="http://www.gardbags.com/en/brasswind/tr ... ather.html">http://www.gardbags.com/en/brasswind/trombone/gig-bag/21-mlk-gard-tenor-trombone-8-bell-gig-bag-leather.html</LINK_TEXT>

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.musiciansfriend.com/accesso ... tid=411608">https://www.musiciansfriend.com/accessories/gard-mid-suspension-8-bell-trombone-gig-bag/h67630000001001?_requestid=411608</LINK_TEXT>

whitbey · by **whitbey** » 2018-10-30 8:21 a.m.

[/quote]

I have 2 Altieri trombone bags that need new zippers and on their site they say they don't replace zippers on trombone (and some other) bags :weep:

[/quote]

I have had my shoe repair guy replace zippers and fix leather handles.

ssking2b · by **ssking2b** » 2018-12-09 8:48 a.m.

Bonna, Eastman, and the case that came with my XO 1632RGL-LT. Also the new case for the King 2B.

Tromborinha · by **Tromborinha** » 2019-01-16 10:41 a.m.

I like my Bonna Case. It's safe and good to handle and I'm able to store a straightmute and some sheets in the case. With a little bit of luck it's allowed as carry-on baggage on flights.

baileyman · by **baileyman** » 2019-01-16 6:54 p.m.

Any old school French style case suits me best, including Walt Johnson, which is heavy. It's the thin profile so it doesn't bang my leg I think I like.

Chiptingle · by **Chiptingle** » 2019-01-19 2:39 p.m.

I’m diggin this one for$240:

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.hickeys.com/search.php?q=Tr ... se+JP+Rath">https://www.hickeys.com/search.php?q=Trombone+case+JP+Rath</LINK_TEXT>+

GBP · by **GBP** » 2019-01-19 5:08 p.m.

I really like the Edwards carbon cases for bass

WillSlideForMoney · by **WillSlideForMoney** » 2019-01-22 12:05 p.m.

Does anyone here use the SKB golf travel cases for their trombone? If so, which one?

The first link below MAY fit my Marcus Bonna bass bone case...maybe.

Anyone have tips as to which one would be better?

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.amazon.com/SKB-Standard-Gol ... op?ie=UTF8">https://www.amazon.com/SKB-Standard-Golf-Travel-Case/dp/B0007VNZDG/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8</LINK_TEXT>

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.amazon.com/SKB-2SKB-4814W-D ... 9VVSJWE4M1">https://www.amazon.com/SKB-2SKB-4814W-Deluxe-Golf-Travel/dp/B000A13PGA/ref=pd_bxgy_200_img_3/146-1825372-3843426?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000A13PGA&pd_rd_r=adb07cd8-1e67-11e9-a370-cb460c2a40e6&pd_rd_w=nDaCe&pd_rd_wg=Uqjji&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=KPXAD18A2Q9VVSJWE4M1&psc=1&refRID=KPXAD18A2Q9VVSJWE4M1</LINK_TEXT>

Much appreciated!

W

Ruchard1 · by **Ruchard1** » 2020-12-07 10:56 a.m.

Do you know if the Eastman case would fit a trombone with Thayer valve?

JerryY · by **JerryY** » 2020-12-07 2:16 p.m.

2nd the GARD wheelie bag!

Elow · by **Elow** » 2020-12-07 2:26 p.m.

Shires Q series bonna style case and shires marco magi are what i use

spencercarran · by **spencercarran** » 2020-12-07 3:41 p.m.

Big fan of my Bonna bass case. As sleek and lightweight as any bass trombone case has a right to be, great protection, comfortable backpack straps, plenty of storage space. Had it for... 14 years probably? And it's showing no signs of wearing out.

My ultraslim (pre-Torpedo) Cronkhite bag for small straight tenor in two tone leather always turns heads, and of course is feather light. Hardly even feel it on my back while biking. I don't love the need to pull the slide sleeve out to access the bell; it makes getting the instrument in/out a bit more inconvenient than with the Bonna.

modelerdc · by **modelerdc** » 2020-12-08 2:30 a.m.

Protech Ipac. compact, not too expensive, practical. Shires Margo Magi case are very nice compact, pricy and no place to hold thins in an outside pocket, but otherwise a very nice case.

Geordie · by **Geordie** » 2020-12-08 6:21 a.m.

Gard Wheelie bag every time. Does away with multiple other bags, good slide protection too. Even manages a couple of mutes. There was a video on YouTube showing the features.

harrisonreed · by **harrisonreed** » 2020-12-08 8:57 a.m.

My Reeves Brass double tenor hard case. It is outstanding and the worries I had about it have been dispelled after owning and using it for a year.

<ATTACHMENT filename="DSC_0266.JPG" index="0">~~[attachment=0]~~DSC_0266.JPG</ATTACHMENT>

Mamaposaune · by **Mamaposaune** » 2020-12-08 1:14 p.m.

I like the vintage woodshell cases, especially the Bach french-style and Conn Stratoliners.

I don't like the grubby look, feel or smell, though, which is why I like to re-lined them with new fabric, and sometimes re-skin the outside. It's time consuming, and never comes out exactly as I would like, but having a one-of-a-kind is cool, IMO.

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-12-08 1:35 p.m.

Does anyone here use the SKB golf travel cases for their trombone? If so, which one?

The first link below MAY fit my Marcus Bonna bass bone case...maybe.

Anyone have tips as to which one would be better?

https://www.amazon.com/SKB-Standard-Gol ... op?ie=UTF8

https://www.amazon.com/SKB-2SKB-4814W-D ... 9VVSJWE4M1

I use the second one and my bass Bonna case fits perfectly with room for extra clothes or mutes or whatever.

Doug

bigbandbone · by **bigbandbone** » 2020-12-08 2:27 p.m.

I loved my vintage King Coffin case. And when I was on the road I had an Anvil case. Indestructible!

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2020-12-08 3:03 p.m.

The best bass case I have ever had and I had very many over the years is one I bought from Irvin Karan (please dont start... I speak as I find!) Its a carbon fibre shell with a blue leather cover, back pack straps or shoulder strap or just the handle, its been absolutely the best case I have ever owned. New York Artist Series.

<ATTACHMENT filename="Blue Trombone Case 1.jpg" index="1">~~[attachment=1]~~Blue Trombone Case 1.jpg</ATTACHMENT><ATTACHMENT filename="Blue Trombone Case 2.jpg" index="0">~~[attachment=0]~~Blue Trombone Case 2.jpg</ATTACHMENT>

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2020-12-08 3:36 p.m.

[quote="DougHulme"]The best bass case I have ever had and I had very many over the years is one I bought from Irvin Karan (please dont start... I speak as I find!) Its a carbon fibre shell with a blue leather cover, back pack straps or shoulder strap or just the handle, its been absolutely the best case I have ever owned. New York Artist Series.
[/quote]

What brand is that?

ParLawGod · by **ParLawGod** » 2020-12-08 4:51 p.m.

The Eastman fiberglass case is fantastic. I also had a San Fran. Reunion Blues bag that was fantastic...sold it to Pete Ellefson over 10 years ago (and wish I would have kept it). Currently have a Pro Tec case that is (IMO) awful. Overall protection is good, but the way the slide comes out I have already put a small scratch in my bell...

jbeatenbough · by **jbeatenbough** » 2020-12-31 10:28 p.m.

[quote="SwissTbone"]<QUOTE author="DougHulme" post_id="133082" time="1607457813" user_id="3157">
The best bass case I have ever had and I had very many over the years is one I bought from Irvin Karan (please dont start... I speak as I find!) Its a carbon fibre shell with a blue leather cover, back pack straps or shoulder strap or just the handle, its been absolutely the best case I have ever owned. New York Artist Series.
[/quote]

What brand is that?
</QUOTE>

I think it is:

http://slidebone.com/index.php?cPath=25_198

DougHulme · by **DougHulme** » 2021-01-01 6:32 a.m.

Indeed - thats the one.... Doug

SwissTbone · by **SwissTbone** » 2021-01-01 6:59 a.m.

Nice. Thanks!

Mamaposaune · by **Mamaposaune** » 2021-01-01 12:39 p.m.

I already answered this, but reading through other's favorite cases got me wondering - when did all the aftermarket cases start to become available?

Also, who else is old enough to remember when you knew what make, and probably the model, another player owned just by the case? (Usually Conn, King, or Bach; occasionally an Olds)

The old cases were sturdy and protective, though, I don't think most players gave any thought to an aftermarket one.

To answer my own question, I think the demand started when the stock Bach cases steadily got bigger, heavier, and more poorly constructed, hitting bottom with the brown cloth covered monstrosities.

WilliamLang · by **WilliamLang** » 2021-01-01 1:48 p.m.

i really enjoy my Bags of Spain double case (now called Tortejada.) they fit on planes well, hold an alto and tenor pretty well, and the oversized pocket on the back is great for carrying music.

Mamaposaune · by **Mamaposaune** » 2021-01-01 3:54 p.m.

[quote="DougHulme"]The best bass case I have ever had and I had very many over the years is one I bought from Irvin Karan (please dont start... I speak as I find!) Its a carbon fibre shell with a blue leather cover, back pack straps or shoulder strap or just the handle, its been absolutely the best case I have ever owned. New York Artist Series.

Blue Trombone Case 1.jpgBlue Trombone Case 2.jpg[/quote]

Now that is a beautiful case! Based on your pic and description, if money were not an obstacle, I'd have every one of my horns in one.

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-05-29 4:46 p.m.

[quote="Hawaiyan"]I've used Eastman, Gator, KTL(similar to Protec Pro Pac) for both tenor and bass, but my favorite is DAC cases, NX-1s for tenor and NX-2s for bass. DAC cases are made in Japan and are very well made! The inside padding and blocks are adjustable using velcro to hold it in place to fit almost any horn . When I first started using this case I was skeptical, being that the padding and blocks were not fixed, but it was the only lightweight case that would fit my customized tenor. I've had the tenor version for 5 years and was so impressed I recently bought one for my bass![/quote]

How does the velcro hold up on the movable padding? I'm considering buying one for my Yamaha 891Z. But I fly with my horn and I wonder about the potential of having to check it. Although the laws are now more in our favor I think and won't that case fit in most overheads? Let me know your thoughts.

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-05-29 4:49 p.m.

[quote="WilliamLang"]i really enjoy my Bags of Spain double case (now called Tortejada.) they fit on planes well, hold an alto and tenor pretty well, and the oversized pocket on the back is great for carrying music.[/quote]
How has your bag held up since this post? I'm looking at a cut bell Bags of Spain case. My concern is the zippers.

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-05-29 4:53 p.m.

[quote="sirisobhakya"]I am using a trombone case made by DAC, Japan. The design is sleek, it has backpack-style strap, and it is quite durable as well; I involuntarily tested it many times by riding bicycle under low rail overpass and the bell section slammed against the bridge girder. Two downsides are: 1. The accessory pocket is a little on the small side. I can only manage to cram two mouthpieces (one in its pouch), slide lube, rotor spindle oil, and slide cleaning cloth into it. 2. the shell is a bit thin, and there is almost no space between slide crook and the shell, so I would not trust it to be loaded into airplane cargo hold. (I would use my original Yamaha case instead when I fly next week.). Apart from that, everyday use is fine.

[/quote]

How has the DAC held up for you? I'm considering getting one for my Yamaha 891Z. Have you flown with it yet, or still use the Yamaha case

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-05-29 5:12 p.m.

[quote="jbeatenbough"]<QUOTE author="SwissTbone" post_id="133087" time="1607459784" user_id="62">

What brand is that?[/quote]

I think it is:

http://slidebone.com/index.php?cPath=25_198
</QUOTE>

His website no longer has cases on it. And I can't see the images you have shared. Could you tell me the maker of the bag?

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-05-29 5:15 p.m.

I am searching for a new case for my .508 - 8 inch bell tenor. Yamaha 891ZD 9 (cut bell) and I see so many on this thread recommend Eastman for protection and travel. Not sure if the new cases they are making are the same as the ones mentioned here. And Marcus Bonna seems to be a big winner as well. I didn't see anyone talk about BAGS of Spain? Maybe one mention - does anyone have experience with a case made by them?

Burgerbob · by **Burgerbob** » 2023-05-29 9:38 p.m.

[quote="wheelabaker"]I am searching for a new case for my .508 - 8 inch bell tenor. Yamaha 891ZD 9 (cut bell) and I see so many on this thread recommend Eastman for protection and travel. Not sure if the new cases they are making are the same as the ones mentioned here. And Marcus Bonna seems to be a big winner as well. I didn't see anyone talk about BAGS of Spain? Maybe one mention - does anyone have experience with a case made by them?[/quote]

If you have a cut bell, you may as well use a cut bell case. Bonna makes a tiny little case for small straight cut bell horns.

<LINK_TEXT text="https://www.dillonmusic.com/marcus-bonn ... ell-nylon/">https://www.dillonmusic.com/marcus-bonna-jazz-trombone-cut-bell-nylon/</LINK_TEXT>

WilliamLang · by **WilliamLang** » 2023-05-29 10:07 p.m.

it's held up really well for me. i'll continue to get them when i need another.

[quote="wheelabaker"]<QUOTE author="WilliamLang" post_id="135781" time="1609526889" user_id="8089">
i really enjoy my Bags of Spain double case (now called Tortejada.) they fit on planes well, hold an alto and tenor pretty well, and the oversized pocket on the back is great for carrying music.[/quote]
How has your bag held up since this post? I'm looking at a cut bell Bags of Spain case. My concern is the zippers.
</QUOTE>

officermayo · by **officermayo** » 2023-05-29 11:38 p.m.

Over 50 years of playing I've had tons of different cases, both manufacturer's and aftermarket. I've used SKB, Gator, Protech and others. The best case I've found is made by Crossrock. Expensive, yes, but very sturdy, yet light and has ample storage. They also look great

sirisobhakya · by **sirisobhakya** » 2023-05-30 5:29 a.m.

:clever: [quote="wheelabaker"]<QUOTE author="sirisobhakya" post_id="61703" time="1529199152" user_id="3387">
I am using a trombone case made by DAC, Japan. The design is sleek, it has backpack-style strap, and it is quite durable as well; I involuntarily tested it many times by riding bicycle under low rail overpass and the bell section slammed against the bridge girder. Two downsides are: 1. The accessory pocket is a little on the small side. I can only manage to cram two mouthpieces (one in its pouch), slide lube, rotor spindle oil, and slide cleaning cloth into it. 2. the shell is a bit thin, and there is almost no space between slide crook and the shell, so I would not trust it to be loaded into airplane cargo hold. (I would use my original Yamaha case instead when I fly next week.). Apart from that, everyday use is fine.

[/quote]

How has the DAC held up for you? I'm considering getting one for my Yamaha 891Z. Have you flown with it yet, or still use the Yamaha case
</QUOTE>

It holds up quite well, with only bruises in the coating layer. But I have not hit it as much as before since I came back from Japan to Thailand.

I now use Yamaha case, but only because it has more storage space and also I don’t need backpack strap that much anymore (traveling mostly by car now). I still recommend the DAC.

greenbean · by **greenbean** » 2023-05-30 11:53 a.m.

I handled a DAC the other day. It looked great!

My favorites hard cases include...

--Eastman

--Bach French-style cases from the 60s/70s

--Gator hard case.

If we are including gig bags, then...

--Altieri

--Superfine

--Reunion Blues SF / Cronkhite

MStarke · by **MStarke** » 2023-05-31 10:09 a.m.

I am somewhat reluctant to go into the more expensive cases (Bonna, DAC, Wiseman etc.).

For alto, large tenor or bass I mostly use Cronkhite-style bags (Cronkhite, Reunion Blues and Gard) with the slide compartment inside. I find them quite safe if handled with a little care, very practical to carry around and you can add quite a bit of extra stuff inside. However I almost always need an additional bag for music, music stand, tablet etc.

For small tenor I use a Gator or SKB. Quite small and really safe from my perspective.

If I have to take two instruments, I would take my older Bags of Spain tenor/alto case or my Gewa double bag which theoretically fits up to two basses.

One thing that I am kind of missing is a lean, but cheaper hard case for large tenor and bass. Would be great to have the Gator/SKB equivalent for these instruments. Just for some harsher travel and/or gig situations.

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-05-31 11:14 a.m.

Thank you all who responded, very helpful. I couldn't decide between an old school tight fit hard case, such as Eastman, Crossrock, BAM Stage - or the soft pack variety like BAM (doesn't do cut bell). I found a cheap BAM alternative, the K-SES case but the attached music sheet holders aren't removable. The DAC NX-1S seemed very expensive and seemed a little thin and non protective. Also the cases with the moveable velcro pieces seem like they wouldn't really create a tight fit and that the velcro might wear out after a while. So . . . After all my waffling and research and questions I finally went with one of the more expensive options the Bags of Spain Cut Bell basic blue. (Although there are more expensive cases out there.) This was the one I landed on. I only wish they made one with buckles instead of a zipper. They do make them for other instruments, not trombone. It definitely is never going under the tour bus or in with the rest of the cargo under a plane. So I guess if the horn can't go with me I'm not going. I haven't received the case yet, but I'll post my thoughts when I do, for anyone who my want to know about it. It may seem silly but one of the things that I wanted was something with a hard surface for stickers from the countries I play in. And Marcus Bonna doesn't do that unfortunately. I watched a few YouTube "case" reviews and was surprised how few there were to help in my evaluation. I was also surprised how hard it was finding a reliable US dealer to give me a price and sell me a Bags of Spain case. The rep at BAGS was very helpful and I finally went through Houghton Horns to make the purchase. BTW the Horn Guys will get all the Google Hits for trombone cases - but none of those links are valid. And there is a scam sight to avoid that has cases listed for like 43 bucks.

BigBand · by **BigBand** » 2023-06-16 8:56 p.m.

Thanks for the heads up on the scam. I saw one of those and figured ... 'too good to be true'.

wheelabaker · by **wheelabaker** » 2023-06-17 9:37 p.m.

Here’s a few pics of the Bags of Spain Cut Bell case I went with. Ordered from Houghton Horns. It took about 3 weeks to arrive! So much better than the 10 to 12 weeks expected. It is super compact and light weight made with high quality materials. I thought the music holder would be removable and it isn’t. A little unsure how and where to strap in the mouth piece case and wish there was something a little more constraining to hold the slide in a specific spot. Was unsure if the two sides when closed and zipped would put undo pressure on parts of the horn. But it seems to keep it snug without undue stress. Got my stickers on and overall I’m thrilled with the case. It seems like it should cost a little less but I guess it’s worth it if the case holds up for a good while. Hoping the zipper doesn’t have an issue. Looking forward to traveling with it.

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