Thanks Till. A few points. (i) To tell you the truth, I wasn't looking for a duffle, but have been thinking of adding one 28" suitcase (expandable or not) to complement my too many 24's and 26's, for those times when I need some extra volume. The thought of trying a duffle instead slowly sneaked up, thanks to these threads. (ii) I'll get only one big duffle (unlike carry-ons where I keep experimenting with many kinds). (iii) Third, clearance opportunities aside, I won't need one for a few months at least. So I want to get "just the right one" and have some time to do so.

After your previous post (#22) I checked prices and BR685, which too would match some of my luggage, was $269 everywhere. If I start scanning the sites now and then, there might even be a sale somewhere at some point. The Valoroso is $239 at clearance. So let's say, price difference is not an issue.

Among BR685, Valoroso 28, and comparable volume EC, which one would you consider to be the best in design, volume, and weight (which don't vary in time) but leaving aside price (which fluctuates)?

I do like your idea of separating out the stuff one'd need in external pockets, so one needn't go digging into the main compartment all the time. Although, I suppose, packing cubes might soften this consideration somewhat. Still, I'd give some weight to well-designed pockets too.