Mono

I only bought it a few days ago, I got this softwase because i was tired of traveling with a heavy, cumbersome case. This softcase is light, it protects the instrument as it should and has a few tricks up its sleeves: the neck is held when you close and zip the softcase, the instrument is top-loaded, which is very practical (you don’t have to put everything down, which is a real asset on the small stages I’m accustomed to), heavy padding that protects the lower part of the instrument and seems sturdy (even though I’m not convinced by its look). Another good thing is every model or so seems to fit: I originally bought it for the ESP Eclipse I use with my band, I also manage to put a Gibson LP, Gibson ES-339 or a Strat in it. Cool. It seems to match my expectations : a good protection for my instrument which is easy to transport and handle, versatile and sturdy. The latter point is of course to be confirmed with time, still I have a few regrets: - its price: really expensive, especially for a Made in China product. US design doesn’t explain or justify everything. - the straps can’t be detached, hence can’t be replaced in case they were to break. I’ve seen that on other models. Plus, you can’t put them away when not in use, they’re always here hanging (even with their length minimized) - a handle on the front would have been a nice feature. OK, there’s one on the back but it’s not the same. - the pocket compartment lacks a bit space: it lacks thickness and puts all your accessories straight up on the guitar, and even if the foam layer seems comfortable it’s too bad. Plus, I’ll struggle to put ALL I’d need to put in it (strap, replacement strings, dust cloth, pliers and screwdrivers…). They could have made it a bit larger, it wouldn’t have hurt anyone (except perhaps the marketing guys). All in all, I believe I’m done with stretching my arms in the subway because of heavy cases. This is a great thing (plus, stretched arms were of no use for me as I no longer play the bass) :-)

Before I went on the road to Asia last Spring I decided I was going to take 3 guitars. One in a flighttcase, and because luggage restrictions I needed a durable double gig bag that would keep my guitars safe in case of the flight crew making me gate check them. When I got the M80 I was surprised to see how much effort they took in the design. Plenty of extra storage for pedals and on top a back pocket that will nicely conceal an iPad. Plus you get internal hooks for keys, cables so they don't end up a wad of spaghetti, and each compartment where you keep the guitars gets they're own see through pick for picks. You have water proof fabric, with stabilizing inserts to stiffen the whole things. There's a foam block for the guitar's head stock to be elevated plus velcro straps so they don't slide around inside. I dragged the bag all over Asia. Had it gate checked numerous times, thrown about in buses. Even ended up at times with a 3rd guitar stuck inside and the bag did an amazing job protecting them. The straps too are a damn smart design. For a change the gig bag doesn't ride way high over your head. like Reunion Blues bags which are amazing but every time I entered through a door way I banged the necks into the door frame. Not with the Mono. Also the straps are comfortable enough that you can carry it on long stretches without pain. And it has a cross lock between the straps to secure it nicely in place ala high end back pack. Even the handle is comfortable. SO much so that carrying the bag won't cut into your hand even with the weight of 2 guitars (or more :-) in it. I like that gig bag so much I order wallet, computer case etc from mono.