Gear article

RATstands Jazz Stand With Carry Bag

The RATstands Jazz Stand is a professional-grade music stand constructed from anodised aluminium with a unique three-movement folding design. It is engineered for portability and stability, featuring a telescopic stem and a friction-based tilt mechanism that eliminates the need for manual screws or levers.

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Overview

The RATstands Jazz Stand is designed specifically for the travelling musician who requires a full-sized music tray without the bulk of traditional orchestral stands. It is defined by its use of high-quality materials, primarily anodised aluminium, which ensures the unit remains lightweight while maintaining structural integrity. The inclusion of a dedicated carry bag enhances its utility as a portable solution for touring professionals and students alike.

Design and Construction

The stand features a telescopic stem that allows for a full range of height adjustments to suit seated or standing performers. The base is constructed from aluminium legs finished with a durable epoxy coating, providing the industry-standard stability required for live performance environments. Rubber feet are fitted to the base to prevent slipping and to protect floor surfaces from scratches.

One of the most notable design features is the lack of thumb-screws or levers for the tray adjustment. Instead, the stand utilises friction to maintain the tray angle, allowing for instant adjustments during rehearsals or performances without the risk of losing small hardware components.

Portability and Storage

The Jazz Stand is engineered to fold down in three movements. Unlike traditional stands that require complete dismantling, this unit remains in one piece, saving significant time during set-up and pack-down. Once folded, multiple Jazz Stands are designed to interlock, forming a neat and compact pile. This makes the stand particularly suitable for schools or ensembles that need to transport large quantities of gear in limited vehicle space.

Functional Features

The tray is a full-sized music tray, ensuring it can accommodate large scores and folders. It also includes an additional shelf integrated into the design, providing a convenient space for musicians to store pencils and small accessories. The telescopic stem operates smoothly, allowing for quick height transitions that remain secure once set.

Comparison to Alternatives

While traditional metal music stands often rely on heavy steel construction and manual tightening knobs, the RATstands Jazz Stand offers a more modern, aluminium-based alternative. Compared to lightweight folding 'wire' stands, the Jazz Stand provides significantly more stability and a solid writing surface. In the market of premium portable gear, it sits alongside professional solutions like those from BAM or Gear4Music, focusing on the specific needs of musicians who move frequently between venues.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the RATstands Jazz Stand made from?
The stand is primarily constructed from anodised aluminium for the stem and tray. The base legs are also made of aluminium but feature a protective epoxy coating.
How does the height adjustment work?
The stand features a telescopic stem that provides a full range of height adjustments. This allows the user to set the tray at the appropriate level for both seated and standing positions.
Does the Jazz Stand require tools for assembly?
No, the stand does not require tools for assembly or adjustment. It uses a friction-based system for the tray angle and a telescopic mechanism for height, eliminating the need for screws or levers.
How many steps are involved in folding the stand?
The stand can be folded in three distinct movements. This design is intended to prevent the need for dismantling, making it faster to pack away than traditional stands.
Is a carry bag included with this model?
Yes, this specific package includes a dedicated carry bag. This makes it more convenient for travelling musicians to transport the stand safely.
What type of feet does the stand have?
The stand is equipped with rubber feet. these are designed to provide grip on various floor surfaces and prevent the aluminium legs from causing damage to the floor.
Can multiple Jazz Stands be stored together efficiently?
Yes, when folded, the stands are designed to interlock with one another. This creates a neat, compact pile that is ideal for transport or storage in tight spaces.
Is the tray large enough for full-sized sheet music?
The Jazz Stand features a full-size music tray. It is designed to be professional-grade and can support standard music scores and folders comfortably.
Does the stand have a place to store pencils?
Yes, the stand includes an additional shelf. This shelf is specifically designed to hold pencils and other small accessories that a musician might need during a session.
What is the typical price for this stand?
The typical price range for the RATstands Jazz Stand with Carry Bag is approximately GBP 125. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Is the tray angle adjustable?
Yes, the tray angle can be adjusted to suit the user's needs. It stays in place using friction rather than manual screws, which simplifies the adjustment process.
Why is the aluminium anodised?
The aluminium is anodised to provide a durable finish that is resistant to wear and corrosion. This process also contributes to the professional aesthetic and longevity of the stand.