UDG DJ Bags [Back to HOME page]

For years, transporting precious vinyl from the studio to gigs and back has been a source of major trepidation. In the beginning, DJs only ever played down the street, so a couple of milk crates thrown in the trunk did the trick. Record bags were next and while better looking and easier to carry, they were also expensive, held less music and tended to rip easily. Many spent more time at a tailor shop (being re-stitched) than they did out in the field. As DJing continued to grow, jocks began to travel out of town for gigs, and more sturdy gear was needed; the metal DJ box was born. These boxes held up better to the rigors of travel and announced, "the DJ" had arrived. However, they also were excessively heavy, often unsightly and rendered the act of carrying records remarkably uncomfortable. There had to be a better way; the market was ripe for the taking.

UDG (Ultimate DJ Gear) arrived on the scene in January 2000 and from the outset, took a different approach. Unlike most purveyors, whom were merely large firms making record bags as an afterthought, UDG was a small Dutch based company focused entirely on designing, producing and manufacturing the best DJ bags in the world. In just 3 short years, they have placed their ever-expanding line of products with retailers everywhere and built their reputation on the backs (and shoulders) of some of the best DJs in the world.

I have used UDG bags for the better part of 2 years and already consider myself a fan. But I was interested in checking out some of the recent additions to their product line and seeing if they live up to their reputation. I received a brand new Sling Bag/ Trolley Bag combo and an SB Large Bag and began testing them out straight away.

As any DJ who has flown post 9/11 will tell you, things aren't they way they used to be. While in the past, you might have been able to carry your record box on board; I can assure you that you will be forced to check anything that big and bulky. Not only does this set you up for the airline loosing your much, but unofficially enters you in the "lets see how much abuse this metal box can take" competition that most baggage handlers excel at. Certainly not a combination any traveling DJ wants to face.

The UDG Sling/ Trolley bag combo is a two-piece set (sold separately) that works together to provide a better solution for the globe trotting DJ. The Trolley Bag has room for 65 records, 2 CD maps holding 50 CDs (provided) and several pockets for smaller accessories. It also features quality roller blade wheels and a telescoping handle that allows you to transport the bag like any piece of luggage on wheels. The Sling Bag is the accompanying piece, which holds another 45 records, 50 more CDs (in two more map books) and fits perfectly on top of the Trolley. The beauty to these two are that not only are they attractive and easy to transport, but they were designed to fit in the overhead compartment on any plane. Your days of loosing records are over.

I took my new bags to a gig in Toronto and can't say enough about their performance, construction and design. They smoothly glided through the airport (even when loaded to the top with 100+ records) and fit perfectly in the overhead compartment. Their real value, however, is in the peace of mind they provide. Knowing your music is with you and your gig will go off without a hitch is simply priceless and what truly makes the Sling/ Trolley Bag combo such an important breakthrough.

The SB Large is another great piece for the DJ who plays longer sets or needs more records during those sets. It holds 90 records and has plenty of pockets with room for headphones and other accessories. I've had a SB Large bag for more than 2 years and am happy to report that my original bag looks as good today, as it did the day I purchased it.

All UDG bags are made from top quality materials, including unyielding nylon and top quality leather. They feature reinforced stitching, strong zippers and hardware that is built to last. They have padded shoulders straps, tons of pockets (for headphones, CDs, cartridges), patented Safe-T locks and a rugged, sturdy feel that is unrivaled. The company is also acutely aware of the fact that DJ bags have become "fashion accessories", and have accordingly designed their gear in a variety of aesthetically pleasing colors and patterns. Not only do UDG bags perform well, but they also look fantastic.

If you are in search of an attractive, robust, workhorse of a bag to carry your precious vinyl, you need look no further than UDG. (http://www.ultimate-dj-gear.com/)