Funny Picture of Cello Case on Wherls

Today's a big day! We're looking at hard cello cases, which if you're a cellist is pretty exciting (nerd alert). After your cello and bow, a case is probably the single most important piece of equipment, not only because it protects your cello, but because you will spend a lot of time using it. There are many things to consider when searching for a hard cello case, so let's get started.

First, we're only talking about hard cello cases today. You can also buy a soft cello case, also called a gig bag, but today is all about the hard case. The main reason to choose a hard case over a soft one is pretty obvious: the level of protection. A cello is a big investment so you want to adequately protect that investment. A soft case offers very limited protection if any. (The Cushy — a case we've reviewed here — is one of the better soft cello cases for protection. Most others are simply a thin piece of canvas.)

One other note before we get to it: this review does not include flight cases. If you are planning on flying with your cello, your cello will most likely need extra protection. We'll plan to tackle this topic soon.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means CelloGuide receives a small commission if you make a purchase using these links. There is no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support of CelloGuide!)

Here are some points to consider when looking for a hard cello case:

1. Protection – Most hard cases are either made of a material called ABS, carbon fiber, or carbon composite. Internally, there are basically two typical systems: suspension and non-suspension. Suspension cases protect the cello better.
2. Weight – One of the biggest things cellists consider when choosing a case is how heavy it is. When you have to carry your cello around a lot, you want something that won't break your back. Generally, the lighter the case, the more expensive it is. (Again, only talking hard cases here).
3. Ease of use – This is where you can get into a lot of options: wheels, backpack straps, how many handles, what type of latches, etc. This is definitely something you want to spend some time thinking about and experimenting with. Wheels are nice, but they do add weight, so how important is that to you? How are the latches? Easy to use but feel sturdy enough to be safe? How about the internal restraints?
4. Budget – Most of us can't ignore this part and hard cello cases can get expensive really fast. Expect to spend around $200 at the very low end and upwards of $3,000 at the high end. Many advanced high school and college students have cases in the $700 range.
5. Size – You'll want to double check the size of your cello against the size of the case. Particularly if you have a cello modeled on a Montagnana, which tend to be wider, be sure your cello will fit its new case. Always check dimensions and check in person if possible.
6. Other bells and whistles – Is there a music pocket? How many pockets inside for items like rosin or extra strings? Would you like your case to be able to lock?
7. Style – The big question: what color are you going to get? 🙂

Are you already overwhelmed? Not to worry. If you can, visit your local violin shop and try out several cases. You'll get a sense of what you need and like and what you don't.

In the meantime here are some cello cases that we like here at CelloGuide to get you started with your research:

Accord – These cases are very desirable and are popular among advanced students and professional cellists. They are lightweight but offer great protection. They will set you back quite a bit, but just as with anything else, you get what you pay for, and you get great quality with Accord.  Take a look at the Hybrid model which is their heaviest option and therefore least expensive, but still very light at 7.5 lbs. No wheels but it does have backpack straps. Another great thing about the Accord cases is that the bottom pads of the interior suspension system are adjustable, so if your cello is a bit longer, you can accommodate that. Accord also has the Ultralight and Standard models to choose from as well. Click Here for Pricing and More Information.

Bam – This is a trusted line of cases with many options. We would recommend starting your search with the Classic line, which is their entry level case. And personally, we'd choose the one with wheels. It is a solid ABS shell and good suspension system inside. Bam Classic would be a good step up from some of the more common student hard cases. More expensive, but for good reason, Bam also has the NewTech  (12.1 lbs with wheels) and HighTech (weighing in at only 6.4 lbs, but no wheels). Bam is a trusted and well-known brand for a reason. Click Here for Pricing and More Information.

Bobelock – This is a good choice for a starter hard case. More budget-friendly, these fiberglass cases are heavier, at around 13-14 lbs and they only have one shoulder strap, but they do have wheels and offer great protection. Click Here for Pricing and More Information.

Cushy Hard Body – This is the most budget-friendly option we're including here today, with the lower price due to the fact that it is not actually a hard case. Made of a hard foam, this case is an in-between option – not as soft as a gig bag, but not the same level of rigidity or protection of a hard case. It will offer some protection but not as much as the above cases. It does have wheels. It also has a slimmer line so you want to be sure it will fit your cello. Click Here for Pricing and More Information.

Finally, to address one complaint we frequently hear from students (or their parents) is that closing a hard case takes too much maneuvering. That can be true but to some degree should be expected. With a carbon fiber case, in some ways they feel 'flimsier' when open but that doesn't mean they are flimsy.  Again, the best idea is to try it out and see for yourself.

All cases will experience wear and tear over time, and no case will last forever, but we hope you find a great fit for your cello in any case (pun intended).

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Source: https://celloguide.com/best-cello-cases/

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