Ahead Drum Cases Reviewed
How many percussionists spend a small fortune on their perfect percussive set-up to then carry it around in cardboard boxes? When spending so much on quality instruments, shouldn’t some attention be paid to how they’re transported and stored? Here we have one solution: a trio of carry bags from Ahead’s Armor range.
Deluxe Djembe Case
The djembe case is ergonomically designed so that your drum sits snugly inside, with the dual-layer, high impact DX foam core keeping everything protected from the outside, while the soft, premium-grade Sherpa Fleece interior keeps everything in luxury inside. The main upright body consists of six pieces, with one featuring a full-length zip to aid getting your djembe in and out of the case.
The round top-section secures in place via a zip running around the circumference of the case, with the two zip pulls meeting in the middle at the same point where the vertical zip pull sits, a canvas flap is then held in place over the point where the zips meet. The outside of the case features a useful side pocket as well as comfortable carry handles and a separate top-handle should you wish to carry your drum upright. Unzip the back panel and contained inside are adjustable shoulder straps to carry your drum on your back, with the soft, padded straps making for comfortable transportation should you wish to move your drum in this way.
Bongo / Pedal Case
The dual-purpose bongo/pedal case is large enough to accommodate bongos snugly, or alternatively either a single or double kick pedal – though double pedals would need to ‘top and tail’ to fit comfortably. The top panel unzips almost the whole way around, meaning that once opened it doesn’t hinder you placing items inside.
There is an external pocket on top, though it could have been made bigger to accommodate link rods for a double pedal. A strong, padded carry handle and a handy shoulder strap make transportation a breeze.
Deluxe Cajón Case
The large, rectangular case features the same dual-layer, high impact foam DX core and soft, snug fleece interior as the other cases. It also has a large zip running around the three sides of the top and down the front panel, meaning it can be fully opened, making getting your cajón in or out of the case quick and easy.
The outside features a fairly large zip pocket, thick web straps and carry handles. The rigid DX core means the case retains its shape when empty, while the solid stitching, chunky zip and strong handles make for a very well constructed product.
Conclusion
All three cases are very well made, with their thick, semirigid, high impact foam providing plenty of protection. The soft fleece interiors not only guard your precious cargo, but also keep it all well insulated too. The strong handles on each of the cases make carrying your instruments easy, with the thick web strapping feeling strong throughout. The inclusion of shoulder straps is also very welcome. Overall a collection of excellent cases that should keep your percussive instruments well protected and looking their best for a long time.