Walker Seats Presents the new "Taveler UltraLite"

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 8 Jul 2008 4:10 am

I recently posted in the Announcement section regarding the newest seat in the Walker Seat gallery. I call it the "Traveler UltraLite. We have taken a standard seat and compressed it into a light weight yet durable seat that maintains the craftsmanship and integrity of all Walker Seats and has a cloth seat cushion. And the cushion has the same "triple layer system" as all Walker Seats...for comfort and style. This seat weighs in at only 11.4 lbs.(Don't worry...it will hold the big guys too!!!) It is fully lined on the inside to protect your gear and has panels that can be removed and re-arranged to suit your needs best.. Many of us travel by air and I have made this seat to comply with most airline regulations as carry on luggage (as of this day). And for those of you that now drive smaller cars or who will be in the near future, it is a welcomed relief that this seat takes up less room. And finally for all of our steel guitar friends overseas, the biggest set back for those guys getting seats has been shipping weight. Hopefully this will make it easier for those players to have a good quality steel guitar seat as well now. As always, should you have any questions regarding this seat or any of my other models or would like to order one, please feel free to call me. My phone number is listed below. This is something the steel guitar community has asked for repeatedly and I will have the necessary parts within the next 6-10 days to make (20)twenty seats. I will then look at the response and determine my line of production based upon what the sales tell me. After these twenty seats are sold I will know what quantities to order for additional seats and there will be a small waiting period to get the necessary parts. Simply put, I can't order the additional parts until I see what your response will be. I am happy to say that Randy Beavers has placed the first order and his seat will be shipped this week as the first of the twenty.

God Bless you all

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
E-Mail Address is RWALKER5@NC.RR.COM
919-524-1774

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 8 Jul 2008 8:07 am

Here is a Picture of the Traveler UltraLite

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
E-mail>>>RWalker5@nc.rr.com
919-524-1774

Justin Lee · Post by **Justin Lee** » 8 Jul 2008 10:05 am

Hey, what's it going to cost?

Probably out of my price range, but do you have a pac-seat in the $75 range? I'm looking for something to keep in the living room to store all my accessories.

Thanks,

Justin Lee
Atlanta, Ga.

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 8 Jul 2008 1:44 pm

Hi Justin,

I sent you a e-mail...but to my knowledge...no one "in business" can make a seat and sell it for $75. I have seen some used seats on the SGF but most have been over $100. Once in a while I will come across a used seat and I'll sure keep you in mind.

Ray

Justin Lee · Post by **Justin Lee** » 8 Jul 2008 2:12 pm

Thanks Ray - I'm definitely in the market for a used seat and I wasn't aware of the market. Guess I need to save up a bit and get something I can afford.

Your ultralight looks great! Thanks for the info.

Daniel J. Cormier · Post by **Daniel J. Cormier** » 8 Jul 2008 5:52 pm

Any new Pack-a-seat as good as any seat Ray builds is worth the money paid for it. Ray has a high standard when it comes materials. Making one thats lightweight is easy if you use the right material. Knowing Rays work first hand I'm sure he hit this one out of the park.
Just my opinion
Daniel J Cormier
www.cajunsteelguitar.com

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 9 Jul 2008 4:46 am

Thanks for those kind words Dan. You know.. I really do try to make the absolute best in quality. I have purchased things that don't measure up and fall apart and it makes a guy feel bad and sometimes angry. I want my seats to last for you. You may only buy one in your lifetime but if we ever meet on the street...we'll always be happy to see each other. I researched the airlines for stats on the overhead compartment thing and I really have been discussing it for some time with Randy Beavers, who will be doing a lot of fly dates with LeAnn Womack. And we have talked extensively about the overall weight issue...not only with seats but with steel guitar cases....amps...etc. Now it came down to
1. which materials to use
2. how to bring them together and make them last
3. looks on the stage
4. practicality

Well at just a tad over 11lbs...my goodness!! and the construction is there to make it last, I must say I was a bit proud of what I had accomplished. Then there were the other benefits that I had not thought out but was pointed out to me by Randy. Lots of folks are buying smaller more fuel efficient cars and space is now at a premium. This would provide a way for the player to take up less space when traveling while still providing him with all that he or she needs to play a show and be comfortable while they are doing it. And also, the biggest problem with selling the seat overseas has always been weight. The shipping charges have been terrible and prohibit many of our friends from across the pond from having a seat. Not only was I able to greatly reduce that weight, but I have been pounding the pavement to get the best possible rates and methods for shipping the product to them. And finally, it is a very affordable seat. So much so that many folks can now afford this seat as a second seat. I know that's what I am doing now. I have the "Esquire" model at home in my little studio and I keep a second seat by the door all packed up for travel. You know, everything new that we do in manufacturing takes a certain capital investment, and sometimes it can be pretty tricky trying to make sure you don't lose your money. So what I am doing here is trying to fulfill a need that I have heard right here on the SGF while at the same time trying to find out if the need is great enough for me to invest a bit more and if so "how much". I am currently working on another model that I already know will make some players happy, happy, happy, but I also know there will only be a few that want to pay the price for that. That new model will be ready for debut in the very near future. I work many hours in my shop and some folks think I am a bit crazy. If you call me on a Saturday or a Sunday, you will more than likely catch me in the shop. This is what I do for a living and I simply want to always be the best I can be. I want to thank everyone for your orders so far....not only for the new "Traveler UltraLite" but for all the other models that I ship out of here on a daily basis.You have my word that I will always strive to be the very best and to produce the very best for my customers. As a fellow player, this steel guitar world and music is the very heart and soul for me, as I know it is for most of you. Thanks again and God Bless

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
rwalker5@nc.rr.com <- my e-mail
919-524-1774 <- my phone number

Jason Lee · Post by **Jason Lee** » 9 Jul 2008 1:55 pm

Hi Ray, it seems pretty clear that you make a fine product and the UltraLite looks like it will be a great addition to your current line of seats. I think I'd like to pick one up but would need to know the price first.

Jason Lee
Chicago, IL

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 9 Jul 2008 4:02 pm

Thanks Jason,

I have sent you an e-mail. Folks there has been a tremendous response to this new product for the first day and it looks like there may be a market for this seat. Actually I can post the price of this seat because even though it is priced low it is the Normal price for this new product and out of respect for the other builders I would as that you either e-mail me for the price or simply pick up the phone and call me. I will always make time for your calls. If you can let me know your zip code I will also be happy to calculate the shipping for you. Just please remember that most of the time I am in my shop and can't always come right up to the office to get on line and get you a quote but I promise I will just as quickly as I can.

Thanks a Lot

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
rwalker5@nc.rr.com <-- my e-mail
919-524-1774 <-- my phone number

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 10 Jul 2008 3:40 am

E-mails and orders have been overwhelming. Going into the second day of this new product announcement is positive. Thank you all for the orders as well as the inquiries and you can also visit us at www.walkerseats.com. The website is going through a dramatic change so visit often for new and exciting changes

Regards,

Ray Walker

Bud Harger · Post by **Bud Harger** » 10 Jul 2008 6:22 pm

Ray,

I have one Walker Seat and it is super!

This may defeat some of the benefits of the light-weight, but I like a back rest. What would one weigh with back rest?

Please send me an e-mail of the cost of the light-weight seat with back rest...and of course, the wait time.

E-mail: budval@vvm.com

Best personal regards,

bUd

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 11 Jul 2008 4:32 am

Hey Bud, I have learned over the many years I have been building seats that lots of folks have lots of ideas and things that they prefer. I will always strive to assist you when and wherever I can. I have sent you an e-mail. Having said that....I have a lot of players who own and actually use more than one Walker Seat. I have a gentleman coming by Saturday to my shop to pick up two (2) more seats. He already owns two. Now before you jump up and say "wait a minute...that's too big of a stretch" or "well he must be selling them" let me tell you why! He owns four (4) steel guitars and they stay at four(4) different locations. Actually he owns four(4) of everything. When he goes to play at one of these locations he doesn't have to load or carry anything. He just walks in and sits down to play. He is the first person I have ever met that has that many in as many places and actually I envy him...because after all....how great would it be if we steel players could just show up without lifting and carrying and setting up all that equipment. I know I would love it

On the other hand, having two seats is very reasonable for me. I keep a guitar set up here in my studio and one packed up by the door to travel...as well as a second steel and second amp. It works for others the same way. The new "Traveler UltraLite" would be a great way to accomplish that and it's priced attractively enough that it makes that possible for many players. Again, the response to this new seat has been very good and we are working hard to fill orders for the new seat as well as servicing our other customers with their orders for our other models. I am working 7 days a week to meet those orders and getting it done right now....If it gets to be too much...I'll cry Uncle. Meantime...Randy Beavers...if you are reading this...you need to get your hind parts over here to North Carolina and belly up to the work bench and learn the ropes since you are the one that started this whole thing

The truth is...Randy is a great friend and I appreciate him...now if I could only get him to show me a couple licks. Course now I guess he'll say "Oh I'm sorry Ray...but your just too busy

Folks thanks a million for all the orders. Working for you and serving your seat needs is always appreciated.

God Bless

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
rwalker5@nc.rr.com <--- my e-mail address
919-524-1774 <---my phone number

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 13 Jul 2008 4:34 pm

It's Sunday night and I just closed down for the night and will be back at it tomorrow. Orders for this new seat is doing very well right now. Apparently there is a decent market for this product and I suspect it is either the fact that the seat is only 11lbs 4 ounces or you are downsizing in the car that you drive. It makes sense either way.

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
919-524-1774
rwalker5@nc.rr.com

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 14 Jul 2008 6:30 pm

Chris Sims · Post by **Chris Sims** » 14 Jul 2008 6:59 pm

People like new and improved products, I think that says it best. Didn't you say something to the effect that the cost will be lower, since it is a light model?
That will get me going, I just need to wait a bit before i spend more money.

Tommy R. Butler · Post by **Tommy R. Butler** » 14 Jul 2008 7:20 pm

Ray, You make the best seat in the world & I love You like an uncle. It's a North Carolina thang !!!

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 16 Jul 2008 3:14 am

Cris, I can post the price here simply because it is not a discounted price, however, out of respect for others in competition I would ask that you e-mail me for the price at rwalker5@nc.rr.com and we'll just say that it is cost friendly in today's market. Just because it is very lightweight doesn't mean it is made cheaply. In actuality it costs a little more to produce than the "Traveler UltraLite" model. The legs had to be made longer and the seat does in fact have a cloth cushion (cloth costing more than vinyl). But all in all a great value.
Tommy, thank you for the kind words my friend. I know you play a lot and therefor you are in the saddle a lot and hearing your words means a great deal to me. North Carolina is a fine place to live now isn't it Tommy?....now when you're done playin with the boys out in Nashburg....come on home for a spell

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
919-524-1774

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 17 Jul 2008 4:03 am

All the parts are in and I am working on your orders today. Thanks you all for your business....It is my pleasure and honor to serve you all.

God Bless

Ray Walker
Walker Seats

Randy Beavers · Post by **Randy Beavers** » 17 Jul 2008 11:45 am

My new "Walker Traveler" steel seat arrived this afternoon. Judy handed me the box and I couldn't believe there was a seat in it! This thing is light! Even after I loaded it up with a volume pedal, strings, tuner, overdrive pedal, chords, pliers, string winder, forceps (you never know when you might need these), flashlight, bars and picks, it weighed just under 18 pounds! I've been sitting on it and squirming around, and it seems as stable as Ray's other seats. (Which is very stable)

I do think with the price of fuel we are going to have to get all our gear into the trunk of a Honda Civic, or less. Then we have to consider our aging backs! Lighter is always better if it will carry and hold up the same thing.

And by-and-large, most of us are buying extra large! By that I mean... You know what I mean!

Thanks Ray, this may just save a few chiropractor visits.

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 18 Jul 2008 3:54 am

Well I am glad you like it Randy. I just wish I could have been there when the box arrived. Heck, after it was completed (Randy's was the very first one) I was even shocked at how light it was. I started checking and rechecking to make sure I had all the parts on it. And don't worry about stability today or even down the road. The "Traveler UltraLite" has the same support system as all Walker Seats and not only does it have the "Triple Layered Cushioning System" that I devised....but it has a little something new that will only make it a bit more comfortable if that's possible. As I indicated, in another post, I now have received most of the materials to make the first batch of twenty and I will be working late into the nights throughout the weekend to make lots of you happy next week. Thanks, Randy, for the inspiration for this new seat...and thanks for lighting a fire under me to get it done. I want to wish you much success and happiness with your new job as LeAnn Womack's best steel guitarist yet. She sure got a dandy with you.
And thanks again, for all of the orders...you know...sometimes when I am out in that shop on days like yesterday and you just keep cuttin and building and all that goes into a seat....you just want to go get a regular 9 to 5 job....but then you see the end result and you get a nice note from people like Randy and it makes it all worth while. It is truly a pleasure working for all of you guys and I thank you for giving me that opportunity

God bless

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
919-524-1774

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 19 Jul 2008 3:32 am

Ritchie Rose · Post by **Ritchie Rose** » 19 Jul 2008 3:53 pm

Hey Ray
Please send me a price with and without the back. zip is 37721.
Thanks
Ritchie

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 20 Jul 2008 4:04 am

E-mail sent Richie. Well folks it's Sunday morning and the sun is still shining. I closed the shop down last night finally at 10:30 pm and getting ready to go at it again today and into the night. I will be shipping the new seats this coming week. If you have not already ordered one and would like to...by all means place your order. I must now catch back up on all of the other great Walker Seat models. Thank you all for your business....and as always...the pleasure is mine.

Regards

Ray Walker
Walker Seats
www.walkerseats.com
rwalker5@nc.rr.com
919-524-1774

Ray Walker · Post by **Ray Walker** » 22 Jul 2008 4:11 am

Dale Self · Post by **Dale Self** » 23 Jul 2008 4:30 am

Payment has been sent.
Looking forward to receiving the seat.
Thanks,
Dale

The Steel Guitar Forum

Walker Seats Presents the new "Taveler UltraLite"

Walker Seats Presents the new "Taveler UltraLite"

Nice looking seat

Price?

Do they come with back rests?

Walker Traveler Arrived

Traveler