Soft and hard cases are the two most common types of double bass cases. Hybrid cases, on the other hand, contain elements of both hard and soft styles. The level of protection and transportation mechanisms differ depending on the type of case.
Double bass cases are available in a variety of materials, including cloth and foam, with nylon versions being particularly popular. These are soft cases that are made to be as light as possible. Because this makes it easier to move the double bass around on a daily basis, players refer to these versions as “gig bags.” It also makes it easier to store the bass in a small space because the case isn’t as bulky. The foam is intended to protect the surface from dings and scratches.
The other type of double bass case is the hard case. Synthetic materials such as plastic, carbon fiber, and fiberglass are commonly used in these versions. These materials are lighter in weight and, in many cases, more durable than alternatives like wood. Some cases, for instance, are made of Kevlar®, the same material used in bulletproof vests. The insides of the cases are made of a soft material like chenille or velvet that won’t scratch the instrument, and some cases have removable linings that allow a bassist to put a bass already in a soft case inside the hard case.
The level of protection offered the two types of double bass cases differs significantly. The foam in soft cases is usually 1 to 2 inches thick (2.54 to 5.084 cm), but it is insufficient to protect the instrument from major damage. As a result, players primarily use these cases to store their instruments at home, school, or in music stores. Hard cases for doubles, on the other hand, take up more space but are better for travel, especially if the player must delegate the bass to others, such as airport workers who may lack musical training.
Another difference between soft and hard double bass cases is that hard cases usually have rollers on the bottom due to their larger size and heavier weight. The rollers allow the bassist to move the case and enclosed instrument without having to lift it, which reduces physical strain. This is also an option in some soft cases, but it’s not as common. Shoulder straps may be used instead of hard double bass cases.
Although most double bass cases can be classified as either hard or soft, some cases have elements of both. Some cases, for example, have a firm shell that, while padded, is much thinner than usual, more akin to a basic guitar case. The hard shell has a nylon covering on the outside. Although these hybrid cases offer slightly more protection than soft cases, they are still not recommended for frequent travel.
All double bass cases, except the most basic, have at least one pouch for accessories and music. This is significant because transporting the bass with two hands is the safest option; bassists cannot easily carry their accessories and music in addition to the instrument. Although these pouches are convenient, they can make passing through security networks slightly more difficult or time consuming.
Hard cases are generally more expensive than soft cases. They also have a longer lifespan. Of course, this is contingent on the materials used the manufacturer to construct the case. Depending on how they use their bass, bassists may choose to have multiple types of cases.