What does SPS stand for in the Gewa gig bag range?

SPS stands for Side Protection System. This refers to the integrated fibreglass inlay that provides structural rigidity to the sides of the bag, offering protection similar to a hard case.

What material is used for the exterior of the bag?

The bag uses heavy-duty Cordura 1680 Denier fabric. This is a high-grade synthetic material known for its extreme durability and resistance to tears and abrasions.

How thick is the internal padding?

The bag features 20mm of highly-compressed foam padding. This layer works in conjunction with the fibreglass inlay to provide maximum shock absorption for the flugel horn.

Is the Gewa SPS bag waterproof?

While Cordura 1680 Denier is highly water-resistant and will protect against light rain, it is not considered fully waterproof. It is designed to withstand typical outdoor environmental exposure during transport.

Does the bag come with a shoulder strap?

Yes, the Gewa SPS Flugel Horn gig bag includes a shoulder strap. This feature is intended to make the instrument easier to transport compared to traditional heavy hard cases.

Can this bag fit a trumpet instead of a flugel horn?

While a trumpet may physically fit inside, the bag is specifically shaped for the larger bell and different proportions of a flugel horn. Using a bag not designed for the specific instrument may result in excessive internal movement.

What is the typical price for this gig bag?

The Gewa SPS Flugel Horn gig bag typically retails in the range of GBP 125. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market availability.

How does this bag compare to a standard hard case?

The SPS bag is lighter and more portable than most standard hard cases. However, thanks to the fibreglass inlay, it offers much higher protection than a standard soft bag, bridging the gap between the two styles.

What makes the fibreglass inlay special?

The fibreglass inlay provides a rigid shield against knocks and drops. It prevents the bag from collapsing under pressure, which is the primary weakness of traditional foam-only gig bags.

Is this bag suitable for air travel?

While highly robust for daily use and road travel, the suitability for air travel depends on airline cabin size restrictions. The fibreglass inlay provides good protection, but it is not a flight-certified hardshell case.

Does the bag have storage for accessories?

The Gewa SPS series typically includes external pockets for mouthpieces, valve oil, and sheet music. These compartments allow musicians to carry all necessary peripherals in one unit.

Why should I choose a gig bag over the case that came with my instrument?

Many new flugel horns come with heavy, cumbersome cases that are difficult to carry on long commutes. The Gewa SPS provides a lightweight, ergonomically superior alternative without sacrificing significant protection.

Gear article

Gewa SPS Flugel Horn Gig Bag

The Gewa SPS Flugel Horn Gig Bag is a high-protection transport solution designed for brass musicians seeking a balance between a soft bag and a hard case. It features a unique Side Protection System (SPS) incorporating a fibreglass inlay and high-density foam padding within a heavy-duty Cordura exterior.

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Background and Design

The Gewa SPS (Side Protection System) series was developed to address the vulnerability of brass instruments when transported in standard soft gig bags. While traditional hard cases offer excellent protection, they are often criticised for being heavy and cumbersome for the travelling musician.

The SPS Flugel Horn bag occupies a middle ground, offering the portability of a soft bag with structural reinforcements that mimic the rigidity of a case. It is specifically designed to accommodate the unique bell shape and valve configuration of the flugel horn, providing a secure fit that prevents internal movement.

Construction and Materials

The exterior of the bag is constructed from 1680 Denier Cordura, a highly durable and abrasion-resistant synthetic fabric. This material is chosen for its ability to withstand the rigours of professional touring and daily commutes.

Internal protection is provided by a dual-layer system: * 20mm Compressed Foam: A thick layer of highly-compressed padding that absorbs kinetic energy from minor impacts. * Fibreglass Inlay: The 'SPS' namesake feature, this rigid inlay provides a structural shell that protects the instrument against significant knocks, drops, and crushing forces that would typically bypass standard foam padding.

Functionality and Ergonomics

Recognising the needs of mobile musicians, Gewa has prioritised ease of transport. The bag includes a dedicated shoulder strap, allowing for hands-free carrying, which is a significant ergonomic advantage over standard handle-only hard cases. The design focuses on reducing the physical strain associated with carrying brass instruments over long distances or through public transport networks.

Market Positioning

Typically priced around GBP 125, the Gewa SPS bag is positioned as a premium accessory for serious students and professional players. It competes with other high-end protection brands like BAM, particularly models such as the New Trekking Single Trumpet Case, though it is specifically tailored for the larger proportions of the flugel horn. Compared to entry-level nylon bags, the SPS offers significantly higher safety ratings due to the integrated fibreglass shell.

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Frequently asked questions

What does SPS stand for in the Gewa gig bag range?: SPS stands for Side Protection System. This refers to the integrated fibreglass inlay that provides structural rigidity to the sides of the bag, offering protection similar to a hard case.
What material is used for the exterior of the bag?: The bag uses heavy-duty Cordura 1680 Denier fabric. This is a high-grade synthetic material known for its extreme durability and resistance to tears and abrasions.
How thick is the internal padding?: The bag features 20mm of highly-compressed foam padding. This layer works in conjunction with the fibreglass inlay to provide maximum shock absorption for the flugel horn.
Is the Gewa SPS bag waterproof?: While Cordura 1680 Denier is highly water-resistant and will protect against light rain, it is not considered fully waterproof. It is designed to withstand typical outdoor environmental exposure during transport.
Does the bag come with a shoulder strap?: Yes, the Gewa SPS Flugel Horn gig bag includes a shoulder strap. This feature is intended to make the instrument easier to transport compared to traditional heavy hard cases.
Can this bag fit a trumpet instead of a flugel horn?: While a trumpet may physically fit inside, the bag is specifically shaped for the larger bell and different proportions of a flugel horn. Using a bag not designed for the specific instrument may result in excessive internal movement.
What is the typical price for this gig bag?: The Gewa SPS Flugel Horn gig bag typically retails in the range of GBP 125. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market availability.
How does this bag compare to a standard hard case?: The SPS bag is lighter and more portable than most standard hard cases. However, thanks to the fibreglass inlay, it offers much higher protection than a standard soft bag, bridging the gap between the two styles.
What makes the fibreglass inlay special?: The fibreglass inlay provides a rigid shield against knocks and drops. It prevents the bag from collapsing under pressure, which is the primary weakness of traditional foam-only gig bags.
Is this bag suitable for air travel?: While highly robust for daily use and road travel, the suitability for air travel depends on airline cabin size restrictions. The fibreglass inlay provides good protection, but it is not a flight-certified hardshell case.
Does the bag have storage for accessories?: The Gewa SPS series typically includes external pockets for mouthpieces, valve oil, and sheet music. These compartments allow musicians to carry all necessary peripherals in one unit.
Why should I choose a gig bag over the case that came with my instrument?: Many new flugel horns come with heavy, cumbersome cases that are difficult to carry on long commutes. The Gewa SPS provides a lightweight, ergonomically superior alternative without sacrificing significant protection.