Both the Preston Innovations Absolute Station and the Matrix XR36 Pro represent the pinnacle of 36mm seatbox design. Designed for match and high-density commercial anglers, both systems prioritize zero-flex stability, high-end finishing, and modular tray customization.

Below is a direct side-by-side comparison across all key parameters.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature / Metric	Preston Innovations Absolute Station	Matrix XR36 Pro
Typical Selling Price	£639.99 – £679.99 (RRP £849.99)	£674.99 (RRP £799.99)
Complete Weight	~18.7 kg	18.5 kg
Leg Diameter & Type	6x 36mm round telescopic legs	6x 36mm round telescopic legs
Leg Caps	Removable threaded screw caps	Removable threaded screw caps
Footplate Release	Quick-release spring pins (lockable in 2 positions)	Single-hand quick release slider
Modular Catch Mechanism	Mag-Lok (Neodymium Magnetic Closures)	Rubberised Catch Blocks / Latches
Standard Tray Package	1x 26mm Shallow Tray, 2x Deep Side Drawers, 1x Shallow Side Drawer, Stacker Plate + Cover	1x Shallow Tray Unit, 1x Deep Drawer Unit (with Inserts), Transport Lid + Handle
Under-Box Stacker	Mag-Lok Stacker Plate system (removable runners)	Fixed runner box tray system
Frame Color Options	Graphite, White	Lime, Shadow (Dark Grey)

Key Comparison Breakdown

1. Price & Out-of-the-Box Value

• Preston Absolute Station: Retail prices typically hover between £640 and £680. It comes standard with a slightly richer tray configuration out of the box (including two deep side drawers, a shallow side drawer, and a 26mm tray unit with lid).
• Matrix XR36 Pro: Retails at £674.99. Out of the box, it comes with one deep drawer unit (pre-fitted with tray divider inserts), a shallow tray, and a transport lid.

2. Weight & Portability

• Both boxes sit in the exact same heavy-duty weight class—18.7 kg for the Absolute vs 18.5 kg for the XR36 Pro.
• Neither box is meant to be carried long distances by hand. You will need a box shuttle or barrow system for long bankside walks.

3. Stability & Leg Clamps

• Rigidity: Both offer near-zero flex when standing up to ship out long poles (16m+) or when sitting high over steep margins.
• Clamping Blocks: Preston uses non-marking rubberized clamping blocks that squeeze the outer leg wall. Matrix uses an ultra-smooth internal block system that operates with large, ergonomic rubberized handwheels. Neither system will score or dent the leg tubing over time.
• Footplate Locking: Preston utilizes spring-loaded pull-pins to lock the footplate outward or store it away. Matrix utilizes a single-handed sliding release system that operates quickly even with cold, wet hands.

4. Modular Units: Mag-Lok vs. Matrix Trays

• Preston Mag-Lok: Preston’s biggest advantage is its Neodymium magnetic locking catches. They automatically snap into place, do not get jammed by sand/mud, and eliminate plastic clip failure.
• Matrix Trays: Matrix uses robust plastic snap catches. While extremely durable and proven over time, they require manual unclipping compared to Preston’s magnetic alignment. However, Matrix drawer units come standard with modular internal storage dividers.

The Verdict

• Choose the Preston Absolute Station if: You want the convenience of the Mag-Lok magnetic tray system, prefer a slightly more comprehensive initial drawer arrangement, and want the ability to clear out the under-box stacker runners completely when wading into shallow water.
• Choose the Matrix XR36 Pro if: You prefer the single-hand footplate slide system, favor Matrix’s eye-catching Lime or Shadow aesthetics, or are already heavily invested in the Matrix drawer and winder eco-system.

The Preston Innovations Absolute Station is Preston’s flagship seatbox system. Built around a hydroformed aluminium frame, it delivers rigidity without excessive bulk, making it a stable platform for high-density pole and feeder fishing on both commercial fisheries and natural venues.

CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICE ON AMAZON

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Leg System	6x 36mm Telescopic Round Legs with Mud Feet
Frame Construction	Hydroformed Aluminium (Available in White or Graphite)
Tray System	Mag-Lok Modular Units (Neodymium Magnetic Fasteners)
Footplate Mechanism	Quick-Release / Lockable Sliding Footplate
Levelling	Dual Integrated Spirit Levels (Front and Side)
Standard Package	1x 26mm Shallow Tray, 2x Deep Side Drawers, 1x Shallow Side Drawer, Stacker Unit & Cover

Hands-On Performance Breakdown

1. Stability & Leg Mechanics (9.5/10)

The core job of any flagship seatbox is to provide a rock-solid, wobble-free platform—especially when shipping out 16 metres of pole or fishing far out on a feeder.

• 36mm Legs: The oversized legs eliminate almost all sway, even on steep, uneven banks.
• Non-Marking Clamping Blocks: The redesigned handwheels tighten securely without biting into the anodized leg surface, avoiding unsightly scoring marks over time.
• Threaded Tops: Removable screw caps on top of the legs allow you to attach keepnet arms, pole socks, or accessory trays directly to the leg structure without needing additional knuckles.

2. Mag-Lok Modular System (9/10)

Preston’s Mag-Lok system replaces traditional plastic latches with strong neodymium magnets.

• Ease of Use: Trays snap together instantly and securely, eliminating broken plastic catches or stiff catches in freezing winter conditions.
• Custom Stack Height: Trays can be added or removed in seconds, allowing you to tailor your seating height relative to the footplate for correct 90-degree leg posture.

3. Footplate & Under-Box Stacker (8.5/10)

• Footplate Locking: Features quick-release spring-loaded pins that click into position cleanly. It can be fully detached for easier boot loading or cleaning.
• Stacker Runner System: The under-box stacker plate slides smoothly out from the back. Removing the stacker leaves a clear, open space beneath the frame—ideal for placing bait buckets or luggage when wading into shallow waters.

4. Comfort & Transport (8/10)

• Pole Seat: High-density foam cushion offers good lumbar support for long 5-hour matches, complete with a built-in pole retaining strap.
• Weight Consideration: As with most full-spec 36mm seatboxes, the Absolute Station is heavy. A barrow system or box shuttle is essentially mandatory if you face long walks to your peg.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional overall rigidity and bankside stability.
• Mag-Lok magnetic catches are fast, reliable, and durable.
• Threaded leg tops simplify accessory setup.
• Clean, professional aesthetics with durable powder coating.

Cons

• Heavy to carry by hand over distance without a shuttle.
• Premium price tag compared to entry-level 30mm or 36mm alternatives.

Final Verdict

Rating: 9/10

The Preston Absolute Station is a top-flight seatbox engineered for serious match anglers and demanding venue conditions. While it is an investment and carries some weight, the rigidity, modular versatility, and build quality make it one of the most reliable bankside stations on the market.

CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICE ON AMAZON

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase on Amazon or eBay, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.