Your case is the one thing standing between your instrument and certain peril. And take it from us — it only takes one accident before you stop and evaluate the cost of a case in light of replacing an entire instrument.
Cases and bags also help keep instruments in prime performance shape. Even the most meager gig bag will keep dust off your axe and out of your electronics. And paired with a humidifier, a good hardshell case will protect your acoustic guitar from drying out and warping.
In the following article, we’ll look at some case options for guitars and basses and touch on some features to look for in your next case.
Features to look for:
Water resistance — If you play out, your case is bound to get caught in the rain or snow. Look for the terms “water resistance” (good) or “waterproof” (better).
Neck cradle — The more a case or bag can cradle your guitar neck in transit, the less likely you are to run into neck troubles — warping and snapping — from storage and playing out.
Fit — The most secure cases and bags conform to the contours of your instrument. This can be accomplished through molding, shaping, and filling. A non-fitted case still offers protection — just not as much.
Shoulder/backpack straps — While both options free your hands for other gear and personal effects, backpack straps tend to be more comfortable and healthier for your back and shoulders.
Lock — Integrated case locks prevent unwanted hands and eyes from interacting with your gear out on the road. If you fly with your instrument, invest in a TSA-approved lock, which TSA officials can open and relock without your involvement and without breaking your lock.
Pockets/storage — Pockets, pouches, and storage compartments reduce the number of trips it takes to get you up and playing. Smaller storage for tuners, slides, capos, strings, and picks, as well as larger storage for cables, laptops, tablets, and pedals can really streamline your setup.
Best case scenario: hardshells, gig bags, and hybrids
The best case for each player’s needs isn’t always the toughest or heaviest money can buy. Many weekenders here at Sweetwater prefer our gig bags and soft cases because they’re light, compact, and hands-free. And when you’re already traveling across town with an amp and pedalboard, a lighter load and an extra hand can make all the difference.
On the other hand, if you’re a touring artist or outing with an irreplaceable instrument, you can’t afford to leave anything to chance. For these players, Sweetwater recommends the toughest, most secure cases they can budget. Integrated locks come in handy, too.
Blurring the lines between hardshells and gig bags are hybrid cases, offering case-like protection with the convenience of a gig bag.
Hardshell cases: molded vs. plywood
There are two main types of hardshell cases you’ll encounter today: those built from plywood and those made from molded thermoplastic. Each design has its inherent strengths and weaknesses.
Plywood
Pros: classic look, easier to repair, often stackable
Cons: heavier, sometimes less durable
To some players, the thought of storing a fine wood instrument in a plastic case is anathema. Plywood cases have a classic look and craftsmanship that will resonate with both acoustic and electric players. Most minor wood case damage — cracks, broken handles and latches, etc. — is easily repaired. If properly cared for, a fine plywood hardshell case can last decades.
Molded
Pros: lighter, more durable, better thermal and impact protection
Cons: prone to warping, harder to repair
Molded cases represent a superior technology in case making. Here, plastic (typically ABS) is heated, molded, and cooled to fit a particular instrument. Rails and molded latches are tough and impact-resistant. And filled internal cavities hug your instrument and protect against heat. The downside here is that, in the event of damage, most molded cases are hard to repair.
A handful of our favorite cases by category
Hardshell:
SKB Pro Series for Guitar
SKB Pro Series for Bass
Molded hardshell
Electric guitar, bass
From its rugged ABS shell to its fiberglass-reinforced latches, this flight-grade instrument case affords pro-level protection. Its EPS foam interior with plush lining conforms to the contours of your guitar or bass, protecting it from shocks, scratches, and accidents in transit. A TSA-approved latch lock readies the SKB Pro Series for fly dates.
Gator Journeyman Deluxe
Plywood hardshell
Electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, banjo, ukulele, resonator
This handsome wood case is a 10 on the looks scale and boasts protection to match. Its antique brass hardware and leather-style espresso binding give the Journeyman Deluxe a gentlemanly look and retro appeal. Uncommon for a wood case is the JM’s pebble-weave burlap finish, which resists tearing, and a thick lining, which keeps your instrument snug and secure. A finish-protecting crushed velvet lining, locking latch, and endpin cutout (acoustic styles only) are added benefits. And with so many styles available in the Journeyman Deluxe line, you can treat all your stringed instruments to a matching set.
Hybrid:
MONO Vertigo
Electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass
The top-loading MONO Vertigo is ergonomically smart and structurally stout. It’s designed to accommodate the way most of us reach for our guitars: vertically, out of the side of a partially unzipped bag. Vertigo’s sneaker-like molded rubber outsole stands this case upright to conserve space onstage and provide quick access to instruments. Its water-resistant shell protects against the elements, and its plush interior prevents damage to instruments. A feature we really like in the MONO Vertigo is its internal neck cradle, giving this hybrid neck protection that’s comparable to a case.
Gator Transit Series
Electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass
This is another hybrid we love. While it offers the conveniences of a gig bag — with a form-fit, lightweight, back-strapped design and plenty of pockets for accessories — its 20mm-thick padding, modular internal cushioning, and padded bottom are a good safeguard against bumps and shocks in transit. An added plus, this series is available in several color options to suit personal tastes.
Gig bag:
Gruv Gear GigBlade Sliver
Electric guitar, bass
Slung over the shoulder or worn like a backpack, GigBlade is the comfortable, stylish, and convenient way to get your gear to the gig. Its radical design lowers your instrument’s center of gravity and keeps the arms in a relaxed position in transit, for comfort you’ll feel all night long. A Ying Yang neck brace and padded headstock extension give this hybrid an advantage over similar cases. And loads of internal storage — for pedals, music, laptop, and more — make GigBlade a minimalist’s dream.
SKB GB Series
Electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass
Lightweight, effective, and affordable, the SKB GB Series is a solid (so to speak) option for any guitar or bass. It’s well padded and tough, with backpack straps for hands-free travel and dual exterior pockets to keep cables, tablets, and essentials at arm’s reach. SKB’s attention to detail is evident in everything from the GB Series’ rugged zipper pulls and handles to the tough canvas exterior.
This, of course, is just a small sampling of the cases we have to offer, with something for every need and every budget. When it’s time to protect your instrument, call your Sweetwater Sales Engineer and find your perfect fit.
If you have any questions about guitar amps, give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
