Gator GR-Rackbag-4UW

Strong. Versatile. Compact. Lightweight. The rack spacing is precise as expected. There is an extra space/room on the last rack unit as needed to let the handle rails and also the wheels which comes handy for 2 things: 1) the power amp has more space to "breathe"; 2) The power cables can be fit there when not using them and carrying the rack itself. The whole construction of the rack is pretty lightweight without compromising protection. All the faces of the rack bag have a strong plastic cover inside. The front and back access panels have also this plastic with some extra padding to protect your hardware knobs and so on. All the zippers are very strong. The outside pocket is well sized, I carry 2 instrument cables, 1 XLR cable, 1 microphone. Finally all the handles are well made and the unit runs nicely. The wheels are very silent. Neat and strong construction with great features. Recommended 1000%. No, 10000%. No, 1000000%! Great product.

The promise is fantasic. The design is very, very poorly realised.

1: The case is 'upside down'. It's practical the doors open above than below. (I use mine upside down)

2: No extra screw plates (10 cents extra, Gator..?) for the rails on the rear to attach equipment on the rear side, ie: Patchbay, powerboard etc. (I invested in my own solution for this)

3: The rails on the front side are not deep enough to protect the buttons on your equipment. This is a major flaw. (The case is supposed to protect your equipment..!)

4: Today, I notice a small hole where the stiching had come apart (only used so far at rehearsals). This I can forgive as QC in manufacturing can happen (Thomann - I will be returning for a replacement)

Unfortunately I need to live with this as it's the only 4U with wheels I've seen. If there's a similar alternative available I recommend considering it.

Unfortunately its's a great idea, just poorly executed. A working musician would have noticed these things immediately. I'm guessing it was designed by someone working in an office who's not a musician :o(