Posted by Joe S. on February 19, 2000 at 17:46:07:
In Reply to: Flight Case Construction posted by Shimshon on February 18, 2000 at 04:08:19:
NO tuba case can protect your case 100%. (not even a W. J., sorry) Those multi-$1000 string bass cases actually have air bags all over the inside of them which are equipped with special valves which release air on impact to make the bass travel SLOWER than the case itself, when severely impacted.
Requirements for a REASONABLY reliable case include:
*PLENTY of space between the instrument and the outside of the case (particularly the bell, valves and linkage) PLUS some straps which keep the tuba from sliding around inside the case upon severe impact (This would be a "budget" substitute for the string bass case valved air bags.)
*well thought out padding, which, when the case is severely impacted, will cause the tuba to stop moving SLOWER than the rest of the case
*puncture-proof wall construction, yet light enough to manuveur.
*STRONG latches (resistant to being released accidentally), hinges, and VERY STRONG corner and side fasteners for the fixed sides of the box.
*the ability to fit inside the backseat of an average vehicle (THIS is the most difficult requirement of all.)
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RULE: The LARGER the tuba, the more prone it is to dents and creases, because the ratio of total surface area to wall thickness is MUCH higher on B.A.T.'s. (same reason that French horns get more smashed up than trumpets do)
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If you DO decide to take on this project yourself, I would recommend a very carefully thought-out 3D trapezoidal shape, which you later carefully cut into a bottom part and a lid part. To make thinner/lighter/PORTABLE plywood more puncture resistant, go for a high (hardwood) grade of thinner plywood and perhaps have a kitchen counter guy laminate it for you with some type of formica-like material (I recommend black :-) .