On the old system, I never take the base unit out of the cover, just unzip it and fold it back. The cover for the sub slips on easily. The covers for the two poles are tight when you get them, but loosen up quite well with use.
I also bought a speaker stand bag that holds both parts of the pole at the same time, and it works good too.
The new model two, is different. You do have to take the covers off, but it actually sets up quicker than the original. Seems to me that the poles and the base unit are a little lighter, but I'm not certain. The sub is the same for both systems. The model 2 takes up even less room in the car. I can't see, or hear, $1000. difference. Not sure I can hear any difference.
DonM
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DonM