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In my search of a case for my PT 15 I have decided to consider the possibility of an Eastman tuba case that they sell with their PT F tuba clones. Does anyone have experience with the cases eastman provides with their instruments? Do you think they could withstand a flight?

The EBF-864 is smaller than the PT-15 but their case (foam) may be altered to fit your horn. The MTS 1209V plus a filler pad (what they call 1708V) fits the Rudolf Meinl 5/4 F which is about the same size as the PT-15.

My Eastman case is quite good considering it’s cost, with a hard plastic shell and reasonable padding. It’s similar to but more heavily made than a Yamaha case. Here’s a pic of the case for my EBB534 with a plastic Martin in it.



As to being a flight case, that imposes unknown and potentially harsh requirements that only an Anvil case, and maybe not even that, could fulfill. This won’t survive a 12-foot drop from the baggage conveyor without damage. I would still inflate a plastic ball in the bell to lift the rim away from the end of the case.

I’d rate it as better than a wood case, better than a Yamaha case (which I have flown with and got lucky), not as good as a true flight case, and not as good as a fiberglass Walt Johnson case (though both of the latter are so heavy they might exceed weight restrictions with a tuba in them).

For one or two flights, you’ll probably be fine.

Rick “no guarantees with any case” Denney

I have a an Eastman case and it’s absolutely terrible. It really is a piece of hot garbage. It never closed properly, and half the buckles are broken or misaligned.

This was four years ago, so maybe they’ve fixed it.