A Closer Look: Protec iPac Double Trumpet Case

After trawling the internet for a new trumpet case, I came across the Protec iPac range. These cases are available double and triple versions with or without wheels. They contain removable velcro blocks that allow you to create the prefect fit for your trumpets and accessories.

I chose the double case so that I was able to carry my Bb trumpet and mutes or Bb and Eb trumpets.

Space for two trumpets or trumpet and mutes

Removable velcro blocks help you create the perfect fit

The case itself is very well made with a nylon exterior, outside pocket with organiser and comfortable shoulder strap. It is also possible to attach protect backpack straps to the case (at an extra cost) however I found the case too bulky to go on my back.

Comfortable Shoulder Strap

Sturdy Handle and Strap Clip on Side of Case

Interior Storage Pockets

The outside pocket is large enough to hold a couple of mutes and contains a small inside pocket that although small, is just large enough to hold valve oil and slide grease as well as some pencils. Unfortunately this pocket is not big enough to hold any music unless you want to leave the pocket unzipped.

The case also comes with two removable velcro double mouthpiece pouches that will stick to the roof of the case.

This is a good choice if you are looking for a protective double trumpet case at a slightly lower cost than other brands. The downsides are that the case is quite heavy, even before there are any trumpets in it but it will certainly protect your trumpets from any bumps!

See the full Protec iPac range here.

Yamaha Xeno Trumpet - 1 Year On

A year ago I purchased a Yamaha Xeno 8335 trumpet. After using it daily for the past year, I thought that it was time to do an updated review.

Considering I have used it on a daily basis for a year, it still looks in near perfect condition. The lacquer has held up extremely well and I have had absolutely no problems with it at all. The trumpet is extremely well constructed and I still love the way that the valves feel.

I find that this horn is perfectly suited to me. I have always used Yamaha and it is a brand that I definitely trust. I would definitely recommend trying before you buy though, as everyone is different. It is a very versatile trumpet that can be adapted to all styles of music and has a beautiful vibrant tone across all registers and volumes. It is very free blowing in all registers.

I personally really like the mouthpiece that comes with the horn and have continued using it for the year. It is a Yamaha Custom 16C4-GP. It is quite a large mouthpiece so definitely would not be recommended for less experienced players. It has an inbuilt tone 'booster' that, because of the added weight, helps to stabilise notes and allows better control whether you're playing loud or soft. It is gold plated on the inside that gives a warmer sound.

I have ditched the case for a smaller more portable gig bag, but it is a perfectly good case if you need to carry two trumpets or for added protection. The case is very well built and I personally find it has a very nice appearance in comparison to other cases. It is also lockable which is useful if you want added security.

Find out more about the Yamaha Xeno range here.

Watch the video below to hear how the Xeno sounds:

Trumpet Case Essentials

Here is a list of some useful items to keep in your trumpet case:

• Valve Oil - I recommend "Blue Juice"
• Slide Grease
• Lip Salve - always necessary after those long rehearsals
• Laquer/silver polishing cloth
• Flannel - useful for spit emergencies!
• Pencil/Eraser - a necessity for all instrument cases
• Folding trumpet stand - I recommend the K&M stand that stores in the bell of the trumpet
• Mouthpiece case (if using a gig bag)
• Pegs/lyre
• Tuner
• Mouthpiece brush
• Spit balls - useful for maintaining the trumpet if you don't have time to wash it regularly