Technical data
| Line | Hightech |
| Instrument | Violin |
| Material | Hightech ABS shell |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Interior dimensions | Total length: 62 cm | Body length: 39 cm | Upper width: 19 cm | Lower width: 22 cm |
| Exterior dimensions | 63x23x15 cm |
| BAM reference | 2003XL |
| Item number | BAM-2003XLB |
Exterior features
- 2 combination locks
- Side carrying handle
- Airtight seal
- Set of 2 rubber bands for attaching a bow tube to the case
- Optional: external bow tube (item no. 9012)
Protection and climate
BAM's Hightech shell is built in three layers: ABS on the outside, a foam core of injected polyurethane or, depending on the model, Airex in the middle, and a third layer of PETG or ABS on the inside. BAM thermoforms these shells in France, with part of the production based in Thailand.
The interior is foamed in a single piece and set firmly into the shell; as the instrument is fitted, the padding yields to its shape.
The three-layer shell works as a buffer against swings in temperature and humidity. Open the case after moving into a different climate and the instrument meets the new conditions gradually rather than all at once.
A shady spot suits the shell best: in full sun, for example in a parked car, it can warp or blister.
Dry air makes the maple of the scroll shrink and the pegs give, one to two millimetres of travel being normal; damp air makes them stiff. Below 40 per cent relative humidity, pegs may slip and glue joints may open; below 30 per cent, as dry heated air brings in winter, the instrument is at risk, and in the worst case the top cracks. It is above all sharp changes that do harm, such as constant travel between very different temperatures.
As wood moisture rises, the internal damping (energy lost within the wood) of spruce and maple increases, and an instrument can then sound duller; storage at controlled humidity in the case keeps the damping constant.
The 2003XL is BAM's Cabin case, a flight case for the overhead locker, built from ABS, Airex and a further layer of ABS. According to its data sheet it measures 63 × 23 × 15 cm outside and weighs around 1.5 kg; inside it takes a violin with a body of up to 39 cm and an overall length of 62 cm.
The music pocket, string tube and bow holder make way for the compact size; in return there is a removable accessory bag and two combination locks.
The Iconic versions by David Garrett are based on this Hightech Cabin case, as the ICONIC2003XL-DGN in black with the DG logo and as the ICONIC2003XLW in white without logo or straps.
Our experience
Our experience from shipping is clear: an instrument travels far more safely in a BAM case than in a cardboard box. Every case we deliver passes through our own quality check first.
We make small scratches on the shell almost invisible with ordinary car polish, and we leave alcohol and white spirit well alone.
In our experience an instrument needs a few weeks to settle after a change of climate, for instance after an overseas journey, and a local luthier then fine-tunes the set-up. For the heating season we recommend a humidifier in the case; in our experience the Stretto lasts around a month and humidifies the case quickly and evenly.
For air travel we also recommend a luggage strap and a ‘Handle with Care’ sticker; with normal handling the Hightech case protects well, even with other luggage on top of it.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my case weigh a little more than stated?
The stated weight is the net weight without straps. Because the density of the plastic varies slightly, an individual case can weigh around 100 g more.
Can BAM cases be stacked?
No, BAM cases should not be stacked; give each case a place of its own.
Can a cracked shell be repaired?
BAM replaces the complete upper or lower shell in France, as a crack cannot be repaired locally. Smaller damage such as pushed-in feet can be fixed with patches.
Is the 2003XL meant for hand luggage?
Yes, the 2003XL is built as a cabin and overhead case measuring 63 × 23 × 15 cm outside.
These texts hold decades of experience and a great deal of heart. They are protected by copyright, C.A. Götz jr. GmbH. Please ask us before any use. Thank you for your appreciation.
