Gear article

Hercules DS420B Travlite Trombone Stand

The Hercules DS420B Travlite Trombone Stand is a compact, portable instrument support designed to fit directly inside the bell of a trombone for storage. It features a velvet-coated contact surface and a folding tripod base to provide a balance of stability and instrument protection.

Hercules Stands Hercules DS420B Travlite Trombone Stand
Hercules Stands Hercules DS420B Travlite Trombone Stand
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Overview

The Hercules DS420B Travlite Trombone Stand is an accessory designed for brass musicians who prioritise space-saving solutions. Part of the 'Travlite' series, this stand is engineered to eliminate the need for an external gear bag for instrument supports. By folding into a slim profile, the stand resides within the bell of the trombone during transit, making it a highly efficient choice for touring professionals and students alike.

Design and Portability

The core design philosophy of the DS420B is portability. The tripod legs fold upwards against the central pillar, allowing the entire unit to be inserted into the instrument's flare. To facilitate this without damaging the instrument, the stand features a flared section and a base coated in a velvet finish. This finish serves a dual purpose: it protects the internal lacquer of the trombone when the stand is stored inside, and it prevents scratches to the bell when the instrument is resting on the stand in an upright position.

Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Mic with Stand and Cable
Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Mic with Stand and Cable

Key Features

The stand includes several specific features aimed at instrument safety and user convenience:

  • In-Bell Storage: The compact folding mechanism allows the stand to fit inside the trombone bell, saving space in the instrument case.
  • Velvet Protection: All contact points are covered in velvet to safeguard the trombone's interior and rim.
  • Stable Base: Despite its slim profile, the tripod base is designed to provide a secure foundation for the instrument.
  • Included Accessories: Every stand comes with a velvet carry bag to provide an extra layer of protection when the stand is stored inside the instrument or carried separately.

Application and Suitability

This stand is best suited for trombonists who travel frequently or have limited space in their instrument cases. Because it occupies the space within the bell, it is an ideal solution for musicians who wish to carry only a single case without additional bags for hardware. While robust enough for stage use, its primary benefit is the convenience of its 'set and forget' storage method.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to traditional trombone stands, such as larger tripod models, the DS420B offers significantly higher portability but a more specialised form factor. While a standard stand might offer height adjustment, the Travlite focuses on a fixed, low-profile design to ensure it can fit inside the bell. Compared to other compact stands, the Hercules velvet finish is a distinct feature designed to prevent the 'metal-on-metal' contact that can occur with cheaper, unlined alternatives.

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Frequently asked questions

Can the Hercules DS420B fit inside any trombone case?
The stand is designed to fit inside the bell of the instrument itself. As long as your trombone fits in its case with a small amount of clearance in the bell flare, the stand should not interfere with the case closure.
How does the stand protect the inside of the trombone?
The stand features a velvet finish on both the flared section and the base. This soft material prevents the steel frame of the stand from scratching the delicate interior lacquer of the trombone bell.
What is included with the DS420B?
The package includes the folding stand itself and a dedicated velvet carry bag. This bag is used to wrap the stand before placing it inside the trombone bell for added protection.
Is the stand stable enough for heavy professional trombones?
Yes, Hercules designs the Travlite series to combine portability with stability. The tripod base is engineered to support the weight of a standard trombone securely during performance breaks.
Does the stand have adjustable height?
No, the DS420B is a fixed-height stand designed for compact storage. Its height is determined by the need to fit within the dimensions of a trombone bell when folded.
What material is the Hercules DS420B made from?
The stand is constructed from durable materials, typically steel for the frame, with a velvet-covered contact surface to ensure the instrument remains scratch-free.
How do you store the stand when it is not in use?
The legs fold up, and the unit is placed into the included velvet bag. The entire package is then inserted into the bell of the trombone for storage inside the instrument case.
What is the typical price for this stand?
The Hercules DS420B generally retails for approximately £48.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific musical instrument retailer.
Does this stand work for bass trombones?
The DS420B is primarily designed for standard tenor trombones. While it may fit some bass trombones, the bell diameter and weight of a bass trombone may differ from the tenor specifications it was designed for.
Is the velvet finish durable?
The velvet finish is designed for long-term use under normal conditions. It is specifically bonded to the stand's contact points to provide consistent protection for the instrument's finish.
Can the stand be used without the velvet bag?
While it can be used without the bag, it is recommended to use the included velvet bag when storing the stand inside the bell. This provides an extra layer of protection against vibrations during transport.
How does this differ from the Hercules DS504B?
The DS420B is a dedicated trombone stand that fits inside the bell. In contrast, the DS504B is a piccolo stand peg designed to be attached to a larger multi-stand base.