When you are passionate about violin, it’s an emergent issue to choose the right and felicitous violin case. The job of a case is not only covering up the violin but also concerned with protection, durability, and comfortable weight to carry. There are plenty of cases with different prices available in the market and going through pretty cool innovations. But some merchandisers offer low-quality cases at cheap. So, fixing the best violin cases might be challenging enough. You guys are ready to break the challenge? Let’s discuss all the criteria and standards of the best violin cases to ease your buying path and procedure.

Here’s a list of some of the best violin cases-

• SKY 4/4 Full-Size Acoustic Violin Oblong Case
• D Z Strad Violin Case
• BAM France – Hightech Oblong Violin
• New VC-820BPL Enhanced Half-Moon Violin Case
• Bam France 2002XL Contoured Hightech Tweed-Look Violin Case
• Bam Hightech Overhead Cabin Violin Case
• Crossrock Fiberglass Backpack Style Two Violins Case

What To Explore In A Violin Case?

A variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and models come in the market. We will go over some important features to take into account before buying the best violin cases according to your needs.

Size

Unless the case does not fit your instrument, it will never be worth protecting. Some cases may have immensely hard shells to protect. In this respect, if the case does not fit your violin it can damage itself by knocking against the hard shells of the case. So, before buying the cases which do not seem to be compatible should be avoided.

Weight

Weight is one of the prime factors in deciding whether a case is right for you or not. There is hardly anyone who is fond of heavyweight cases. Especially the violinists that carry their violin every day for a long time should bring this factor under consideration. Because is shown in studies that violinists prolong bad posture over time if they constantly hunch their backs to read the sheet music on the shorter stand. Moreover, using a heavy case will definitely create more bad effects. So, It is way much better to use a lightweight case. Basically, any violin case under 5lb falls under the lightweight category. Again, If you find lightweight cases cheap(under $100), it may have sacrificed other factors such as protection. Then, it would break down simply. Therefore, if you can afford a lightweight case, it will be better in all aspects.

Protection

The inevitable thing during the violin case selection is to pick the protective one. Basically, there are two meanings in terms of protection. It mainly means that the violin will not fracture if the case is dropped for some reason. There are some cases like carbon fiber, high-tech cases, or fiberglass so protective that you can never drive a truck over it! Don’t think literally you will drive any vehicle over it.

Bottom line, If you are going to buy a violin for a big buck(5 or 6 figures), why isn’t such a protective case worth it?

Another purpose of such a good protective case is to protect a violin from bad weather. If the weather is rainy or cold your violin must need extra protection.

Durable

A violin case lasts as long as its components. These components include the zipper, lock, hinges, etc. As we mentioned earlier, a case does not crack by running a vehicle over it. These are the components that require a case to be replaced. So we will have to spend enough time and effort to find out the best brands to ensure the quality of the cases. Because this is not an efficient case to be replaced a broken zipper.

The Material

To grab the best case it is necessary to avoid buying cases that have been produced with cheap materials. Some popular materials which are used in this industry are leather, canvas, fiber, plastic, etc. Leather is used to produce the highest quality product.

Functional

This section totally relies on personal preference. The functionality can not change the overall quality of the case. Let’s clarify this with the help of a lock system. A violinist can prefer a case with a combination lock or another can prefer a key lock. Also, someone prefers backpack straps to carry the case on their backs while others may be comfortable having a case-like briefcase to carry with hand.

Suspension System

A suspension system refers to suspending the instrument within the case. Simply put, if you happened to have dropped your case, there’s a strong possibility that your instrument will be knocking against the case. Thus your violin will be damaged by knocking against the hard shell as some cases may have extremely hard shells to protect. But having a good suspension system will prevent the instrument from knocking against the case. This suspension system is executed by manufacturing the interior padding such as foam with respect to the wooden cases. Foam suspends the instrument to prevent any conflict against the exterior portion of the case.

Lock System

There are basically two types of locks:

1. Combination lock
2. Key lock

Among them, a combination lock is mostly used in newer models. Because one can use the case without fear of losing keys.

Sheet Music Pouch

It is helpful for violinists to have a zippered compartment called a “pouch” for sheet music. Although many of the hardshell oblong violin cases feature sheet music pouches on the backsides, they are found on top of most of the other cases for standard A4 size sheets. But there is some exceptional shape of cases that do not have any space for sheet music. The majority of them are almost all contoured violin cases as they are slimmer than the sheet music.

Hygrometer

A hygrometer is a tool that is used to measure the humidity within your case. Professional violinists, are to keep the violin outside the case for almost as long as inside the case. So, it is necessary also to have a hygrometer in the cases to control humidity. Most of the hygrometers that were found in the case were inaccurate over the years. But nowadays, digital hygrometers can easily be installed in these cases.

I think these circumstances are pretty enough to take under consideration for exploring the violin cases. Now have a look over the different shapes of a violin case and their effects.

Various Violin Case Shapes

The variety of violin cases is based on their shapes. It is totally a matter of personal preference to choose among different shapes of violin cases. Each shape has pros and cons. So one should select them from their own perspective.

Oblong Violin Cases

Oblong cases are the most popular and standard cases you will see. They are often called rectangular or square cases. Almost all the cases made of wood are rectangular shapes certainly called oblong cases. Depending on portability, these cases have handles on the top, either vertical or horizontal. Oblong cases are spacious and sometimes slightly larger than the violin but not too big to carry around. This extra area makes the case weighty. A typical oblong case generally weighs between 5.6lb to 9lb.

Overhead Shaped Cases

The cases of overhead shapes are often made of synthetic materials like nylon or canvas. They are pulled by a handle that goes over the shoulder. They are often lightweight making them easy to carry. Though they can protect against intense heat or cold but not extremely bad weather such as rain, snow, or windy conditions.

Contoured Violin Cases

Contoured violin cases, often called shaped violin cases are usually very popular for their rigid or compact shapes. This case only has enough space for rosin and a cleaning cloth. Although there is an accessory pouch but quite small and already mentioned above that there is no space for sheet music. However, some contoured cases such as the Tonareli-shaped violin cases have spacious pockets under the instrument which can fit shoulder rests, pencils, rosins, and some other accessories. The most significant of this case is to experience comparatively more trouble-free travel because of their lightness. And so, they can fit into airline overhead cabins easily. In addition, they draw less attraction than spacious oblong cases at airports.

Half-Moon Violin Cases

Half-moon violin cases are more spacious than shaped cases and less spacious than oblong cases. Sometimes they are as spacious as oblong cases such as Bobelock fiberglass half-moon violin cases. Again, like the Bam slim violin cases, not all the half-moon cases are as spacious as they seem to be. Because of their compactness, these popular cases do not have enough space for accessories such as shoulder straps and other items that make them easier to carry.

Cabin Violin Cases

Cabin violin cases are one of the smallest and lightest violin cases you will see. Because of this characteristic, it is mostly used for air travel. The usage of these cases has been growing exponentially due to strict carry-on regulations of budget airlines. As they are designed for air travel, the case only fit the violin and the total length does not exceed the carry-on regulations.

Different Types of Violin Cases

Violin cases are not only the container but also protect the violins and allow you to take them everywhere with you. It helps to control humidity and keeps the instrument away from dust and other contaminants. Back in the day, all violin cases were made of wood. As new materials got developed and technologies have been pretty advanced there is a variety of violin cases available now. Here you can get an idea about a few of them.

Wooden Violin Case

The raw material to construct this type of case is solid wood. The wooden case can be of many shapes. If protection is your constant concern then this case made of wood is the best choice for you. It will protect your instrument from inclement weather and you can store it wherever you want. As a hygroscopic material, it will also absorb and lose moisture depending on the surrounding conditions.

The heat conductivity of the wooden case is very low which will keep the humidity level within the case stable enough. The price of a good quality wooden case lies between $100 to $3000.Although the protection quality is much better, the cases below $100 can be cracked if you drop them and it is sometimes very difficult to carry due to heavyweight.

Fiberglass Violin Case

If you practice and want to transport your instrument to or from practice sessions, fiberglass violin cases may be the best option for you. Even, many fiberglass cases got so popular among professional violinists for their protection, easy cleaning, durability, and manufacturing at an affordable price.

And you know the heat conductivity of fiberglass is higher compared to wood. So, you have to abstain from leaving the case in an outdoor environment on hot summer’s day. Nowadays, Insulated covers are given with the case to get rid of this situation. It is better to purchase a fiberglass case at a minimum of $150.If you get a case under this price it may be not the real fiberglass. So be conscious about it before purchasing.

Carbon Fiber Violin Cases

A carbon fiber violin case with having sleek looking is one of the lightest cases you will find. Though they look smooth and have less weighty material, the biggest problem is they heat up very quickly. Basically, carbon fiber is used for high-end bicycles as cyclists need the lightest and strongest bicycles for the long trek. Overheating is not a big issue for a cycle as the wind cools that. But for a valuable instrument like the violin, this is a big problem.

You can use a specifically designed insulated cover to fix this problem. Although carbon fiber cases are sensitive to heat, they are very strong and can withstand a lot of damage and pressure. So, if you belong to decent weather and don’t travel too much then you can grab the carbon fiber cases undoubtedly.

Hightech Violin Cases

‘Hightech’  considered as the technique of shells or protection manufactured by the most popular brand ‘Bam’ is a triply structure made of high-performance materials: ABS in the upper layer, Airex foam in the middle layer, and another type of ABS in the lower layer. Because of these types of layers, the Bam Hightech cases got outstanding protection and ultralight weight. As the interior foams protect the instrument from temperature changes, they are more heat resistant compared to carbon fiver cases.

Another advantage of this foam is to install the suspension system. That is why if you drop your case the foam will prevent you from bouncing your instrument around the case. Thus, The exterior layer of these cases is very stylish and underneath the layer ‘Hightech’ protection is given.

Thermoplastic Violin Case

It may sound pretty surprising to hear the name plastic for a violin case. But over time engineering get also advanced and our engineers have mastered plastic into a strong case. Simply, thermoplastic is a class of polymer that is converted into flexible forms to make it useful for cases. They were first engineered in Germany and designed to fix the issues of carbon fiber cases. ‘Gewa Air violin case’ manufactured by Gewa is the most famous violin case that is protective, durable, light, and also high resistant to heat.

Polycarbonate Violin Case

Polycarbonate violin cases are comparatively newer than all other innovations. It is a tough, transparent plastic material with outstanding strength mostly used in shatterproof glass. Similar to thermoplastic, it is very heat resistant and additionally, they are also scratch resistant.

Tips for Purchase The Violin Cases

In all cases, budget is the most important factor you have to face. The higher your budget, the more variety of options you will have. Generally, if you are able to afford $500-$800, it is easy to find protective, durable, and light violin cases in all shapes and styles. Some factors or qualities will be absent as your budget decreases.

Let’s assume, you found a case with a budget of $400 that featured durability and protection. In that scenario, you probably measure the weight above 5lb. If your budget decreases more, then you may find it lightweight but less protective and durable. In a word, the quality of the cases varies according to the budget. At a low budget, more aspects have to be sacrificed. So, with a limited budget, you have to decide for yourself which feature is important for you.

Most Popular Violin Cases

Rectangle Oblong Violin Case

These cases have plenty of space to fit the violin itself. There is often a small compartment for other accessories such as a mute, Rosen, pencil, rubber, etc. There is also a pocket or compartment attached inside or outside the case to keep bows(up to 4) and sheet music.

SKY 4/4 Full-Size Acoustic Violin Oblong Case

The following features are available:

• Lightweight and durable.
• Exterior: made of sturdy light plywood
• Interior: surrounded by high-quality foam
• Top pocket for sheet music with strong zipper
• Hygrometer: Yes
• Dimension : 31” x 10.5” x 5.5”
• Weight: 4.2lbs
• Rainproof canvas is available.
• Size: 4/4

D Z Strad Violin Case

The following features are available:

• Lightweight
• Two holders and room for rosin.
• Top holders, shoulder, and back straps.
• Weight: ab3lbs
• Size: Standard ¾
• Dimension : 32” x 12” x 7”

BAM France – Hightech Oblong Violin

The following features are available:

• Protective & 3-layer constructions: AIREX, ABS, and PVC
• Exterior: Silver carbon
• Interior: Black plush
• Suspensions: Foam suspension cushions
• Size: 4/4 violin
• Dimension : 31” x 11” x 7”
• Straps: Shoulder and back
• 4 bow holders and removal accessories bag available

Half-Moon or Contoured Violin Cases

New VC-820BPL Enhanced Half-Moon Violin Case

The following features are available:

•  Weight-type: Light
• Straps: Yes
• Hygrometer: Yes
• Dimension :  31.75” x 10” x 5.75”
• Size: 4/4
• Weight: 4.84 pounds
• Lock and key: Included

Bam France 2002XL Contoured Hightech Tweed-Look Violin Case

The following features are available:

• 3-layer constructions: AIREX, ABS, and PVC
• Exceptional protection: protective Anti-Skid Rubber Guards
• Suspension: Yes
• Accessory pouch: Available
• Resistance: High
• Weight: 3.5lbs
• Dimension :  32” x 6” x 10”
• Size: 4/4

Overhead Violin Cases

Bam Hightech Overhead Cabin Violin Case

The following features are available:

• Weight-type: Lightweight
• Suspension: On injected foam cushions
• Shells: High performance materials(ABS,AIREX foam, another type of ABS)
• Security: Two neoprene  anti-slip backpack straps with screw hooks
• Weight: 2.6lbs
• Dimension :  31.5” x 11.02” x 6.3”

Multi-instrument Cases

Crossrock Fiberglass Backpack Style Two Violins Case

The following features are available:

• Exterior: Super high-quality fiberglass
• Interior: Thick foam padding foam with soft velvet lining.
• Accessory compartment: Available
• Hygrometer: Available
• Straps: Deluxe backpack straps and bow holders
• Weight: 9.92 lbs
• Dimension :  34” x 15” x 8.3”
• Size: Double Violin

Conclusions

To sum it all up, Choosing a violin case largely depends on your personal preference. There are plenty of cases in the market. You just need to pick the right one according to the type of your violin, budget, and the amount of traveling you will do. Not necessarily one, you also can have multiple cases to meet different demands. Do believe It’s always better to purchase a decent case that will last for decades rather than a cheap case that will need to be replaced every few years.

Author: Classical Beast

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