Topic: R-4 case: PortaBrace AR-FR2

[Brian Skalinder]

Another post about one of the Marantz recorders and PortaBrace has me checking out the PB bags.  They don't make one specifically for the R-4, but looks like the AR-FR2, made for the Fostex FR-2, would fit well:

FR2:  250 x 220 x 77
 R4:  240 x 217 x 77

I'm reasonably happy with my 4-shelf SoniCase (which I've converted to 3-shelves by removing one shelf).  One thing that's bugged me recently, though - with all the gear packed in, everything fits and stays put nice and snug.  But after removing my 414s, shockmounts, clamps, etc., the shelves flop around and the R-4 swims a bit in the bag.  Not a big deal, mind you, but just got me thinking.  May poke around a bit to see if I can find a used AR-FR2 (doubtful).

The AR-FR2's a pricey option at ~$200, but I love well constructed, purpose-built bags.  Anyway...FWIW.

[flintstone]

Porta-Brace makes quality gear, no doubt.
But that bright blue color just screams,
"Steal this expensive audio gear!!"
Petrol bags also use the bright blue.
Better to use a camRade AudioMate 2
in discrete gray.  Be prepared to pay
a king's ransom, however.

Flintstone

[balou2]

I'm intersted too.  I've got a Nova 5 right now, but I've got to CRAM the R4 in it.

[poorlyconditioned]

Porta-Brace makes quality gear, no doubt.
But that bright blue color just screams,
"Steal this expensive audio gear!!"
Petrol bags also use the bright blue.
Better to use a camRade AudioMate 2
in discrete gray.  Be prepared to pay
a king's ransom, however.

Flintstone

Yeah, I used to carry my laptop around in a lime green sachel, I think it said Cuba on it or something.  Maybe I can wrap my R4 in duct tape.  It would match the craziness that lurks within the case...

  Richard

[Brian Skalinder]

The AudioMate II looks like a very nice bag.  Love the additional side and end pouches.  Better be nice for ~$350!  I'm not too worried about someone lifting my gear bag - it's always on my person or a foot or two away.  At any rate, PortaBrace makes the AR-FR2 in black for ~$40 more.  And it even comes in Camo!  I kinda like the blue, though.  Hmmmm...maybe after my current YS stuff sells I'll try out the PB...   

[Stagger]

Ta heck with the PB Brian.. You saw my Petrol bag at Yonder... I have never seeen an audio bag that well designed. Every compartment is internally linked and each space can be fully adjusted for size. Now that I have it I wouldn't dream of hauling my stuff around in anything ellse. Worth every damn penny IMHO.

[nickgregory]

Ta heck with the PB Brian.. You saw my Petrol bag at Yonder... I have never seeen an audio bag that well designed. Every compartment is internally linked and each space can be fully adjusted for size. Now that I have it I wouldn't dream of hauling my stuff around in anything ellse. Worth every damn penny IMHO.

agreed wholeheartedly.  The Petrol is without a doubt pricey, but no bag touches it when it comes to functionality

[Brian Skalinder]

Ta heck with the PB Brian.. You saw my Petrol bag at Yonder... I have never seeen an audio bag that well designed. Every compartment is internally linked and each space can be fully adjusted for size. Now that I have it I wouldn't dream of hauling my stuff around in anything ellse. Worth every damn penny IMHO.

I saw it, but now wish I'd taken a closer look.  Definitely considering the Petrol bags as well.  Unfortunately, looks like the PEGZ-3 isn't quite tall enough for the beastly R-4.   

The PB website sucks - provides almost no information about the bags (at least that I can find) - inner dimensions, outer dimensions, pocket volumes, etc.  Gonna have to give them a call to find out if I can pack all the rest of my stuff into the accessory pouch(es).

[Brian Skalinder]

Just spoke with Ken at PortaBrace.  He recommended against using the FR2 bag for the R-4 due to their different designs.  Personally, I don't see why it would matter.  There's a difference of only a few millimeters in the FR2/R4 physical dimensions, both units require side flap access for various connectors (which the bag has), and both units have buttons on the top face of the unit (looks like the only way to access the top face is to slide one's hand into the main cavity - no biggie, that's what I do today).

At any rate, I'm going to hold off for a bit, because he indicated they have an R-4 bag coming out soon.  He wasn't able to give me specific dates, but he said design is completely done, and PB simply needs to place the production order.  Who knows how long, then - could be weeks, could be months.  But he said to email him at ken@portabrace.com and he'll contact me when the R-4 bag becomes available.

Also found out the AR-FR2 (and likely the R4 bag) come standard with the RM-Multi pouch, but if that's too small (as is likely the case for me) it's possible to upgrade to the RM-Deluxe.  Both are detachable via velcro.