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the elephant wrote: My idea would be to redesign the zipper cover with narrow, stitching-reinforced slots that allow the user to zip the pocket closed when the strap is both in or out. This would be easy to do, cost next to nothing, and would *really* improve this feature. I can provide you with drawings of this idea if you are interested. Very simple alteration - hugely improved bag.

So an adjustment to the pocket sizes (on bags of a size where this is practicable) and the ability to zip that monstrous pocket closed whether straps are deployed or not would make me willing to buy more of these and recommend them to my students. Right now they are god bags - for the price - but these alterations would make them good bags, period.

I know you simply purchase these from a ready-made place that puts your logo on them, but you have had success with Jin Bao in making alterations and improvements. Perhaps this company would listen to you, as well. I think the Chinese do not use these larger folders and do not think in terms of that size, but having a bag that causes you to carry everything in your hands is not good design. This nod to the US market would make them much more marketable.

Good luck. If you *do* get these changed made, please let me know. I will buy one of the first ones when they are available. Thanks!

sousaphonehero wrote:A helicon or standard-action BBb sousaphone would be a great addition to the Wessex lineup. (Especially with a nice wheeled case)

We just this afternoon received, unpacked, and tested out our three new Wessex sousaphones and I am blown away. Of course, they look wonderful, but I expected that. What I didn't expect was for them to not only sound more like concert horns, but respond like them. Two of my sousa players (and myself) tested out the horns and were instantly giddy with excitement at the feel, response, and sound. On top of that, the thoughtfulness that went into the design of the case is nothing short of a godsend. From the box design (with casters!!!) to the split level support (so that the body will not damage the bell in the case) to the pull-down flap to keep it all secure in transit: this is absolutely fantastic. The addition of neck, bits, and a very nice mouthpiece is a lovely touch as well. We're going to put them through the paces this afternoon at rehearsal and this weekend on the road as we travel to an away game, and I'm pumped to show them off. I look forward to augmenting our inventory with more of these horns very soon.

cambrook wrote:How about something like the no-longer-availabe Tubassist?