Hercules DS561B Bassoon/Bass Clarinet Stand + Protec A317 Harness

In this review the combined Hercules DS561B stand and Protec A317 harness are evaluated as a practical support solution for bass clarinet and bassoon players who need a reliable hands-free option during rehearsals and rehearsed performance breaks. The single biggest reason to consider this combo is stability and comfort: the Hercules stand offers a secure adjustable base rest that holds instruments facing either direction, while the Protec harness provides padded, breathable support so a bassoon sits comfortably during extended wear. Together they address instrument safety and player comfort without unnecessary complexity.

Key Features

• Adjustable base rest: The stand's base rest adjusts to hold bass clarinet or bassoon facing toward or away from the stand, securing a variety of models.
• Swivel folding legs: Legs swivel with locking pins that snap in place and fold compactly for easy storage and transport.
• Padded harness design: The Protec harness uses contoured padding and breathable mesh to distribute weight comfortably for longer playing sessions.
• Quick adjustments: Quick-pull adjustment tabs and an easy clip on/off system let players fit and remove the harness quickly between pieces.
• Secure attachment: The harness includes a strong open metal hook for safe bassoon attachment, reducing instrument movement during wear.

Who It's For

The Hercules DS561B stand plus Protec A317 harness suit professional and advancing students who perform standing, need fast instrument transitions, or require a dependable stand that handles heavier wood instruments such as contrabass or wood bassoons. Players who value build quality and the convenience of a foldable, lockable stand will find this combo useful.

Those who primarily play seated, who need an ultra-lightweight travel option, or who require a stand with very low weight claims might look elsewhere; some users note the stand has a reassuring heft, which is great for stability but less ideal if minimal weight is paramount.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sturdiness: the stand feels solid and holds instruments well, including heavier wood bassoons.
• Build quality: swivel legs and locking pins provide reliable fold and lock performance for transport and storage.
• Functionality: harness padding, quick-pull tabs, and metal hook combine for a secure, comfortable fit.
• Ease of setup: both stand and harness are straightforward to assemble and adjust.

Cons

• Weight: a few customers note the stand can feel a bit heavy to carry over long distances.

Specifications

Product	Hercules DS561B Stand + Protec A317 Harness
Compatible instruments	Bass clarinet, bassoon
Stand features	Adjustable base rest; swivel legs with locking pins; foldable
Harness features	Padded contoured design; breathable mesh; quick-pull tabs; metal hook
Color	Black
Use case	Rehearsal, performance breaks, transport-friendly storage

Our Verdict

The Hercules DS561B stand paired with the Protec A317 harness is a sensible, good-value package for players who need dependable support and comfortable wear for bass clarinet or bassoon. It excels at secure instrument holding and comfortable harness fit, making it a practical choice for rehearsals and gigging musicians who prioritize stability and ease of setup over minimal weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this hold a wood bassoon?
Yes; customers report the stand supports wood bassoons without trouble when adjusted properly.

Is the harness easy to put on and remove?
Yes; the harness uses quick-pull adjustment tabs and a clip system for fast on/off and a secure fit.

Does the stand fold for transport?
Yes; swivel legs fold compactly and lock with pins for easier storage and transport.