Which platform: Balazs I-Box or Balazs Non-Adjustable?

[russ]

I'm having a hard time deciding between two Balazs platforms - the non-adjustable" and the i-box.

I realize one is adjustable and one isn't, but I'm more concerned about the overall quality, minimal vibration, etc. And I like the fact that you can get a 30" drum on the non-adjustable.

Thoughts?

Any help would be appreciated!

[juxt]

there is the more heavy duty adjustable platform, that has the best of both. only thing is cost.

[Tim]

I'm having a hard time deciding between two Balazs platforms - the non-adjustable" and the i-box.

I realize one is adjustable and one isn't, but I'm more concerned about the overall quality, minimal vibration, etc. And I like the fact that you can get a 30" drum on the non-adjustable.

What size bags do you plan on punching? If you are punching really,really big bags you will need the 30" platform - big like 11x8 or 12x10, etc.

If you are punching normal bags 9x6, 8x5, etc. I'd recommend the adjustable Balazs.

[aad03]

The I-box is an incredible value. You'll be kicking yourself if you go nonadjustable. The I-box, with some weight on top, is as solid as you'll ever need.

[russ]

The adjustable Balazs would be my first choice BUT it's way too expensive ($799). The non-adjustable is still expensive, but much cheaper ($499). The I-Box is adjustable and about half the price of the non-adjustable.

The I-Box is obviously their more "budget-conscious" choice. I'm guessing the drum is the biggest portion of cost? (the fact that the non-I-Box versions used maple hardwood).

I feel like everything from Balazs is quality, but I'm wondering if it's worth spending another $200 and sacrificing adjustability to get the hardwood version.

Thanks for all previous replies.

Russ

[russ]

@aad03 -- What about the 24" size and a large bag? Is that a problem?

Thanks!

[paranday]

@aad03 -- What about the 24" size and a large bag? Is that a problem?
Thanks!

Not many bags are so big for it to be a problem. If needed, you can add your own larger diameter drum. Strength is not an issue with the iBox. If you bought four iBox platforms, you could lift your car off the ground with one at each corner and work on it or whatever. Really, this is a beefy platform.

[Bagster]

I have the i-box and have ordered a 28''x2'' solid maple platform from Baird Brothers for 91.00 plus shipping, http://www.bairdbrothers.com/. They will make any size and thickness you want. The 28'' will fit if you mount it offset by 1'' or your could offset a 30'' by 3'' and get by.

[aad03]

The drum that comes with the iBox is plenty good. I wouldn't even consider the iBox a "budget conscious" platform. It is a great platform. Don't put too much emphasis on the drum itself; it is very easy to switch out the drum if you even choose to. Some of us like to make our own drums, I think I've made 3 or 4 different drums to fit the iBox, in various thicknesses, and with various materials.

[Speedbag]

@aad03 -- What about the 24" size and a large bag? Is that a problem?
Thanks!

The only "problem", and it's not a big one, is that a bag 11x8 or larger will extend past the end of the board. That will perhaps damage either the edge of the board or crease the bag leather. That will take lots of time but it's possible, and you will have to stand back away from the board a bit further.

Neither is a serious issue, Just something to be ready for.

[aad03]

Hey Bagster, can you post a couple pics when you get that drum? Sounds quite interesting.

[russ]

Thanks all for the replies and advice. Really appreciate it. I just ordered an I-Box. :-) I also (based on posts in this forum) ordered a Powermill swivel! Pretty excited.

[russ]

@Bagster - how did you order the drum from them? Is it a custom request? Thanks.

[aad03]

First class setup, you'll love it. If you do decide to try a thicker drum, you'll have to get some longer bolts to attach the wood to the steel frame. These are hard to find, but I've gotten them from boltdepot.com. I can give you a link to the exact bolts if necessary. The Powermill is a legend in its own time.

[russ]

@aad03 - that would be great (bolt link). Really appreciate it. Thanks.