Technical data
| Line | Hightech Oblong |
| Material | Hightech ABS shell |
| Colour | Black, White |
| Interior dimensions | Total length 61 cm, Body length 37cm, Width oben 17 cm, Width unten 21 cm |
| Exterior dimensions | 80 x 25 x 17 cm |
| Item number | BAM-ICE2018XLWN |
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.
On violin and viola, neck angle, bridge and pegs shift with humidity and temperature. 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.
With BAM, the model number tells you the basic shape of a violin case: 2000XL is Slim, 2002XL Contoured, 2001XL, 2011XL and 2018XL are Oblong, and 2003XL is the Cabin case for hand luggage. Letters before and after the number denote colour and finish, while the moulded form stays the same. The inside and outside dimensions of this version are listed in the technical data.
The Slim shape holds the violin and two bows, with no room for a shoulder rest; it is cut close around the neck and pegbox, so violins with long pegs may reach its limit there. The Contoured shape follows the outline of the instrument and has room for the shoulder rest. The Cabin case is designed for hand luggage and leaves out the music pocket, string tube and bow holder for that purpose.
BAM's editions are built on the Hightech base forms: the moulded form stays the same, and letters before and after the model number denote colour and finish. Whenever the colour or material changes, BAM issues a new item number.
The code XLC stands for the colour black carbon and does not mean carbon material. CUBE is a limited series in a special ABS of its own, and BonBon is two-tone, with the ‘finition’ describing the colour of the locks, rubber and handles.
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 want to carry your shoulder rest in the case, the Contoured 2002XL has the right place for it; if you travel with music, the Oblong 2018XL with its outer music pocket serves you well, and the Cabin case 2003XL is built for the aircraft cabin.
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.
What humidity does a violin or viola need in its case?
Our rule of thumb for string instruments is 40 to 50 per cent relative humidity at around 20 °C; 50 to 60 per cent is also fine, and above 40 per cent the instrument is comfortably kept. Below 30 per cent it is at risk.
How long can my bow be?
A 4/4 violin bow measures around 74 cm without the button, and fine bows are often slightly longer. The bow holders are screwed in and can be moved by the millimetre; if in doubt, measure your bow first and we will gladly tell you which case fits.
Can I add a music pocket later?
Yes, many models can be fitted with a music pocket later. We will gladly tell you which one fits your case.
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.
