Bobelock 2005 Viola Case

The fiberglass Tonerelli I had got too hot inside, which caused case burn several times no matter how careful I was...even by just getting into a hot car or walking down the street in summer . After testing it for several hot days, the wooden Bobelock has proven to be far more thermo protective. The down side is that it is heavy, but pumping wood instead of iron at the gym to prevent case burn and keeping the varnish intact is worth it.

I purchased my original Bobelock viola case in the 1990s when I was in high school. After 25 years of heavy use as my favorite case it was beginning to get worn out. While still functionally solid, it was beginning to look pretty beat up. So I decided it was time for a new case. When my new Bobelock 2005 arrived I was pleasantly surprised that the quality and workmanship seems not to have suffered at all! The case is surprisingly similar in design to the 1990s version, and the few tweaks here and there look like good improvements. Here's to another 25 years!

It is a very nice case. Beautiful. The length adjustment was simple and secure, for a snug fit. Only two things to note: The shoulder rest doesn't *quite* fit into either storage compartment. I wish they were big enough to accommodate it. Second, the hinge and latch are slightly out of alignment, so that I have to lightly tug the top of the case towards me for the latch to engage. This may be normal. This is not a surprise, or a deal-breaker, just something to be aware of.