Questions & Answers

Cases come in all sorts of different shapes and materials. Where to start?

Styrofoam

Today's inexpensive cello cases are basically made of styrofoam, that white material, often used for packaging. They usually have a stripe of plywood around the top (the lid) and bottom, so that the cover can be attached with small screws. Also the handle needs plywoode, rather than just styrofoam. These case are calle 'Semi-Hard' cases.

Advantages: Inexpensive AND they protect the cello really well as long as no one accidentally sits/stands/falls onto it. In fact, if the case is accidentally dropped, there will be LESS impact for the cello because of the light weight. According to Newton, the weight decides on the gravity, and the gravity decides on the speed the item gaines before hitting the floor. The higher the speed the more danger for the cello, obviously. So that danger is minimal with a styrofoam case. The inside of some of these $179 cases looks very expensive; some of them have a thermometer or higrometer and a tube for spare strings (Prices: Around $179), and virtually all of tem have a compartment for sheet music.
Disadvantages: Will not last as long as dearer cases, less protective in some circumstances, any dent in the styrofoam will stay forever.


Plywood

The next level cases, made of 'composite' materials (some plastics). The cases are significantly heavier, and they will therefore develop a greater speed should the case be dropped, but they will successfully resist impacts coming from accidentally sitting on it, falling onto it, hitting it with a foot etc. Because of higher manufacturing costs they are more expensive than styrofoam cases. The most famous 'composite' cases are made by Hiscox. Nowadsays there are cheape Chinese alternatives for only $299.00

Advantges: More strength, more solid, more durable, more protective in some circumstances, compared to styrofoam cases.
Disadvantages: More expensive, heavier than styrofoam, carbon fiber or fiber glass cases. Develops more speed should it be accidentally dropped.


Fiber Glass / Fibre Glass / Fibreglass / Fiberglass

Fiber glass cases are very study, very durable! They come in shaped and oblong. They are usually not covered with any materials and therefore have that 'naked' look. They come in all sorts of colours.

Advantages: They may last even longer than plywood cases and can cope with even more impact
Disadvantages: No sheet music pocket, and still a little heavy.

Carbon Fibre / Carbon Fiber

Carbon fibre cases are the ultimate cello cases as they combine strength with lightness.

Advantages: Very protective, strong, lasting, very light.
Disadvantages: None, except for the price


High Tech

There are cello cases, made of 'high tech' materials. These are as light as carbon fibre but thicker.  For this reason they have a very good insulation against temporary changes in temperature. The most famous brand is the 'BAM'

Advantages and disadvantages are similar to Carbon Fibre.