Without question, the most important accessory you can purchase for a stringed instrument is a case.  Many student or intermediate cellos can be purchased as part of an outfit that includes a case that is usually consistent with the quality of the instrument; these cases generally offer very adequate protection and durability at a economical price.  If, however, you have a desire to replace or upgrade an existing case, or possibly need a case for a newly acquired instrument, there are several factors that should be considered.

EXTERIOR MATERIALS AND FEATURES

The great majority of today’s modern cases are covered with a heavy duty nylon canvas material.  This lightweight material is scratch and tear resistant while providing good protection against the elements.  Additionally, Shar’s diverse product line includes cases with cover and exterior materials made of Cordura®, suede fabric, 3-ply composite, Conatex, polyamid fabric, fiberglass, thermoplastic, pebble grain vinyl, pebble grain mat-finish resin and reinforced ABS.  Each of these materials has its own unique qualities and characteristics that should be considered when making your case selection. 

Closure or latch mechanisms vary depending on specific manufacturer specifications, but it should be noted that some lightweight cello cases often have dual zippers and weather flaps to protect the zippers from rain and snow. 

Some cello cases come with built-in wheels and it should be decided whether this is an important part of your selection criteria when purchasing a new case.  Also, most, but not all, cello cases do include detachable backpack harnesses.  As an alternative to a hardshell cello case, padded cello bags are available and are similar to bass bags except they usually have backpack straps.

CONSTRUCTION

The type (or types) of material used in the skeletal, or hidden, construction of the case directly affects the weight of the case as well as the levels of durability and protection the case provides.  Shar offers a variety of cases that employ more recent technology that has produced lightweight materials with exceptional strength, as well as cases with more traditional construction.

Commonly used shell materials include foam, Styrofoam, cellular foam, waterproof polyamid foam, plywood, Styrofoam reinforced plywood, laminated wood, injected/molded foam, foam/plywood combination and in higher quality cello cases an AIRTEX cellular skeleton.

INTERIOR MATERIALS AND FEATURES

Instrument case interiors can range from simple and functional to sumptuous and luxurious.  Whatever your selection may be, it is important your instrument properly and securely fits the case you choose.  This is generally not a problem since most instruments and cases are standard sizes, however, if your cello has atypical dimensions it is crucial this be considered when making your selection and communicated to your Shar representative.

Most cello cases carried by Shar have Velcro neck restraints.  A properly secured neck strap will protect the neck of the instrument and reduce movement during transit.

Case lining and instrument blanket materials include silk-plush, velvet, cotton velvet, suede and brush nylon-tricot.  Additional case features may include between two and four bow spinners (or holders), accessory compartments of varying configurations, hygrometers for humidity level monitoring, string storage tubes and vapor bottles for increasing case humidity.