Case for a big semi-hollow

narwhale · #1 06-30-2011, 06:32 AM

I recently bought a semi-hollow Aria from the classifieds which I love, but it came with one of those cheap cardboard cases. It does the job for now, but I'd like something with a little more protection. Unfortunately it seems it's bigger than most cases can handle. The lower bout is approx 15.5" across, while most cases and bags list 14" as the max.

I use gig bags for my other basses but since this is semi-hollow and has an angled headstock I probably shouldn't go that route (not that it fits my standard gig bags). I'd love to find a soft case with shoulder straps, as I use a GK MB combo and it's nice being able to carry my whole rig with pedal board in one trip. A hard case would be fine, though. Also, my price limit is probably about $80-100. It's an inexpensive bass, so if I can't find something relatively cheap I'll probably just stick with the cardboard.

narwhale · #2 07-02-2011, 11:12 AM

Any ideas from the weekend crowd?

Mojo-Man · #3 07-02-2011, 11:17 AM

I also have a Custom ABG, (Big)
Looking for anyone to build case, or gig bag?

RandyMolson · #4 07-02-2011, 03:31 PM

I got a couple Coffin Cases for that purpose. You can fit just about anything in them. The problem is they are huge.

Pilgrim · #5 07-02-2011, 04:20 PM

Go to Guitar Center or your local store and look at cases for acoustic basses. Guitar Center has a Road Runner hard case which is about $80 and fit my Gretsch 5123 nicely. The hollows and semi-hollows generally are closest to acoustic basses in dimensions. You may find one that fits well otherwise but which is a bit too deep - you might consider folding a towel and putting it inside the case before sitting the instrument in place. The goal is not to have he bass sitting at an angle or putting too much load on the neck.

**ShoeManiac** · #6 07-02-2011, 06:49 PM

Hmmm. You might be able to use Epiphone's case for the Jack Casady bass.

narwhale · #7 07-02-2011, 08:58 PM

Thanks for the ideas, everyone. I'll check out Coffin Cases and acoustic cases. I'm not sure the Jack Casady case will work because of the Epi's small lower horn and longer scale (the Aria is 32").

narwhale · #8 07-20-2011, 10:09 PM

Just for the reference of anyone who may need something similar in the future, I found a case that fits perfectly.

Amazon.com: Protec ELECTRIC BASS PRO PAC: Musical Instruments
(Protec Electric Bass Pro Pac)

None of the other Protec cases are wide enough, but luckily this was just what I was looking for.