Bobelock 1023 Double Vn/Va Violin/Viola Suspension

This case is terrifc. Alone, it weighs less than my viola case does, and even though it by necessity has a larger footprint, it takes up surprisingly less room than I expected. (For reference, I’m 5’1″ and weigh a buck, and manage it with no problem.) Even though it’s light, it seems well built, and space is well thought out in the design. The adjustable viola side works perfectly and I’m not worried about it slipping or shifting. The two storage compartments inside are larger and deeper than I thought they’d be and hold basically everything I need them to, which was a great surprise, since I was expecting to sacrifice inside storage. The outer pocket is roomy, holds large music sheets and folders, shoulder rests if you want it to, and has a designated space for holding pencils, string envelopes, and other things like digital tuners or tuning forks so there’s no need to keep them inside the case itself. Inside the case, I even have room for my two shoulder rests to sit safely inside around the viola scroll, without touching or pressing on it, though I keep them wrapped in soft bags to be sure they won’t bump into the instruments if they move around. The green color is gorgeous, and the bow holders are secure and well placed. The instrument blanket is the plushiest I’ve ever encountered. The zipper works smoothly and the latch is sturdy and secure. I haven’t tested out the subway strap (which isn’t as nice as on my viola case but seems quite well made regardless) or the backpack straps, so I can’t speak to those, though I’d be surprised if they’re not up to par with the rest of the construction.

I ordered this when it was backordered, and it was well worth the (not actually terribly long) wait. Southwest Strings was amazing in terms of customer service and communication as well.

This has already become my primary case, since it allows me to switch easily between instruments during practice without all the mess of multiple cases laying around and guarantees both instruments are protected in the same way. Even though I don’t always need both my instruments at rehearsals and performances, I’ll be bringing this case with me unless I’m doing a gig where I’d be leaving an instrument alone in the case unattended. It’s so much more convenient and streamlined than schlepping two cases that aren’t large enough to carry music as well.

I splurged on this for myself and I’m glad I did!