Technical data
| Line | Hightech Oblong |
| Instrument | Viola |
| Material | Hightech ABS shell |
| Weight | 2.4 kg |
| Interior dimensions | Total length: 75 cm | Total width: 25 cm | Body length: 42 cm |
| Exterior dimensions | 78x28x17 cm |
| BAM reference | DEF5201XL |
| Item number | BAM-DEF5201XLA |
Interior features
- Detachable accessory bag
- 4 bow holders
- Strap for a "Kun"-style shoulder rest
Exterior features
- 2 combination locks
- Side handle
- Underground handle
- Airtight seal between upper and lower shell
- Non-slip, wear-resistant rubber spots on the lower outer shell
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.
For the viola, the Hightech cases come in the Contoured 2200XL shape and in Oblong shapes such as the 2201XL, 2202XL, 5201XL and 5202XL. The inside and outside dimensions and the weight of this version are listed in the technical data.
The Oblong cases 5201XL and 2201XL close with metal locks, the Contoured 2200XL series with plastic locks. In the 5201XL the suspension pad can be taken out, and the model comes in a compact form without an outer pocket.
Technically, La Défense is BAM's Hightech case; the difference lies in the material and look of the outer skin, brushed in an aluminium finish with silver details. Beneath the outer skin, the same three-layer shell is at work, with its buffer against swings in temperature and humidity.
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.
When another model suits you better
If you travel with music, the Oblong 2202XL with its music pocket serves you well; if you want the case as compact as possible, the Oblong 5201XL without an outer pocket gives you a shape with nothing added on.
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.
Does La Défense protect differently from the Hightech case?
No, technically it is the same case. The difference lies in the material and look of the outer skin.
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.
