Protec Oboe MAX Case

Protec Oboe MAX Case

image-1464022454303.jpgThis post is the first in what will be a series of posts reviewing oboes and products related to oboes. In most cases, I will be an owner, and user, of the product reviewed.

I have spent ALOT of time searching for that perfect oboe case. Honestly, I have yet to find it, but my Protec MAX Case - yes I own it - does an amazingly wonderful job, and at a great price!

I purchased the Protec MAX in purple shortly after I bought my first oboe, a Bundy-Selmer. The MAX is very well constructed with a tough nylon exterior and a plush padded lining. It held it great and protected it perfectly. Now that I've upgraded to a seasoned Loree AK, the Protec still does the job, and my oboe fits perfectly with barely perceptible shift ability (there will always be some wiggle in any case unless you have a custom case made and the crafter conforms it to your oboe).

The MAX comes with a roomy front zippered pocket - this is where I store my portable stand, cigarette paper, cork grease, soft cloth, silk swap, and feather. There is also a smaller side pocket as part of the main one where you could put your keys or other personal item. The MAX also comes with a shoulder strap so that you may carry it as an over-the-shoulder. There are also three D-rings on the back, and you could carry as a "backpack" with a different strap, or clip on other items (not available from Protec). The case also comes with an ID tag, and is available in four different colors - purple, fuchsia, navy, and black. And all for a great price; though MSRP is $75 at Protec, the MAX can be purchased for as little as $56 at some online retailers. I think it's well worth the money and a great investment.

As I've said, I've searched for the optimal case, both in terms of function and style, and there's not much out there that meets both. I've looked at RAM, Tom and Will, Gator, Wiseman (which are ridiculously expensive and kind of ugly), and Marcus Bonna. Fusion Bags makes some pretty sweet cases, but they do not make one specifically for oboe sadly. SO, in terms of function - i.e. safety - and style, I heartily recommend the Protec MAX Oboe Case.