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alisonc · Jun 30, 2003, 06:40 AM

I'm hesitating between the Spire Volt XL and the Brenthaven Professional packpack for my new 17" PB. I'm looking for a low-profile, simple-looking packpack that has excellent storage and protection. I'm leaning towards the Volt because it's cheaper and I can get 15% off with a coupon code, but I'd like to hear firsthand from owners about their opinions, and specifically the answer to this question: does the Volt XL stand up by itself when you set it down? I've read that the Brenthaven does, and this is important to me because I often travel by train and I need to be able to set the bag down beside me and not have it fall over.

Thanks in advance,
Alison

jamesa · Jun 30, 2003, 08:56 AM

I don't have the Vault but I would not hesistate to purchase another Spire bag. They're awesome. Plus, I live in Australia, shipping was another big whack on top of the purchase price of the bag.

That bag has been with me all round Australia, and I tell you it's stood up to all kinds of tests. They're great

-- james

alisonc · Jun 30, 2003, 02:01 PM

well, I have the answer to my question about whether the Spire pack stands up by itself� I wrote an email to Spire and got a very quick response: no (since the packs are designed to fit the back, is their reasoning).

In any case, I still welcome anyone's comments about either of these bags. It's really hard to make a decision without being able to see them in person.

If anyone knows where I could order either or both of these bags and return the one I prefer less, for a refund, please let me know!

wilsonX · Jun 30, 2003, 10:36 PM

I own a Volt bag. It is very well made. I received a discount by using the coupon code making this bag a very good deal in my view. I like how spacious it is. It's also very well padded in all the important places. The "boot" (their name for a sleeve) was an excellent bonus as it came free with my purchase. I would highly recommend this bag. I do not have any experience with the Brenthaven pack though. Good luck with your decision.

nekura · Jul 1, 2003, 01:48 AM

Hi, could someone tell me the coupon code? I believe I saw it before, however I can't find it again. Thanks for your time.

alisonc · Jul 1, 2003, 06:56 AM

The code I have is SPCST1. I believe it's for 15% off.

wilsonX · Jul 1, 2003, 10:44 PM

Originally posted by nekura:
Hi, could someone tell me the coupon code? I believe I saw it before, however I can't find it again. Thanks for your time.

http://www.macwishbook.com/

bwilliams4 · Jul 4, 2003, 11:55 PM

I have a Brenthaven pack for my 17" PB. The quality is exellent and it also comes with a free removable sleeve. It has lots of room and many neat compartments. It was made for Apple and it has a place for the iPod. It is very comfortable and easy on my back. My only concern is the fact that I have tons of stuff that I cary in my pack and it creates pressure on the PB that would cause the it to close tighly and cause the dreaded screen marks. Well I have not had any screen marks. Also it has a handle on the top to allow for quick carrying w/o putting it on. A typical bag would probably carry more than the backback however I am happy with it and would recommend it to anyone fortunate enough to own a 17" PB. I purchased mine directly from Apple.com. I recieved it 2 days after I ordered it.

Bob