Crossrock Cello Case 4/4 Size With Wheels CRF1000CEFBKHT

Granted, I have only just received my case, but I find that it is surprisingly good. Days were spent comparing this to the Bobelock 2000W (arguably the standard in this class) and I was concerned because of mixed reviews: Most ratings were high, with a few low, but rarely in the middle. However, I consider this to be “great bang for the buck.”

The outer packaging consisted of a standard box, with “Made in China” in bold letters. Two of the packing tape strips had broken and I was instantly anxious. However, after opening the outer box, I noticed that the packing was (similar to the case itself) a suspension design, anchored at the head and foot. The next level of packaging was large-cell bubble-wrap sleeve completely enclosing the case. Underneath the bubble-wrap was a full-length white bag made of cotton or Tyvek-like material, and securely tied at the top (had they added a spring cord-lock, I would have been WOW-ed – and I suspect I might use this on long trips to prevent cosmetic damage). Inside the bag was the case itself.

Firstly, the case is *extremely* light with the packaging almost outweighing the case (subjectively speaking). Though this feature may be dismissed, every pound counts as an instrument is repeatedly hefted in and out of a car. Second, the finish (PC Carbon Composite) appears quite durable. I have had bad experiences with fiberglass where even light glances against a hallway corner can leave a huge and unsightly white scuff. Third, the clasps are much easier to navigate than the hefty buckle-style buckles. My old case required a specific locking order or the buckles would refuse to close, and it was primarily the buckles that kept the case from flexing. The CrossRock has a fitted lip around the entire front face (waterproofing) which, when fully clasped, keeps the case from flexing (the clasps essentially support the lip). The clasps (anodized black), are the bent-wire style which make them both easy to clasp and easy to repair/replace. I have also found the case to be sturdy whilest open (something that has disappointed in other styles). Although a strap for wheeling may initially seem less preferable than the sexy built-in-handle design, I can attest to the awkwardness of a rigid handle that peaks at 90° (it takes a toll on the wrist). The straps that come with the CrossRock were surprisingly beefy and attractive. And the music case on the back is an advantage, though how much of an advantage depends on the amount of music one carries.

I’m not sure whether the music bag/holder on the back is removable: Good design dictates it would be: It looks to be held by snaps, but I wasn’t brave enough to pry hard to prove my assumption. Also, the case – despite being described sometimes as having a head *and* neck lock, has only a locking outer neck strap with an inner faux-leather leather to protect the strings and dampen vibration. I was ambivalent about the neck strap at first, but it has started to appeal to me over a Velcro-based style (with the grating rip of hooks from loops followed closely by the thwang of freed strings). However, it takes a bit of finagling to get the lock adjusted. I do wish that CrossRock had the scroll strap that Bobelock has.

Finally, one reviewer rated this case low because of its wheels which allegedly made the case unsteady. I can’t speak to that user’s experience, but the wheels themselves appear to be made of polyurethane (like modern skateboard wheels), and are not noticeably inset (more than any other make). I suspect they would be better used on-site: Carpet or tile as opposed to sidewalks and asphalt. This could be an issue for professional musicians who have to travel some distances over semi-rugged terrain. But, as others have pointed out, the resulting vibration itself could be harmful to the instrument. As I said, this case does come with a pair of beefy shoulder straps, should they be needed. if this is a real issue, I’d suggest a more expensive case, or a golf bag cart.

I should mention that this *is* a suspension case (some sites claim it is not): No part of the instrument touches the outer shell directly, rather it is “suspended” at various points by lined foam pads (which feels safely stiff). though the case also has an elastic end-pin strap, the inside is unimpressive (though not disappointing) – I doubt even an embedded hygrometer would tip the “need to have it” factor. Good case for this class.

This case is fantastic! First of all, it quickly arrived and was very nicely packaged. The case itself was wrapped in a type of mesh bag that was secured at the top, and then encased in bubble wrap. The whole unit was in a well secured heavy cardboard box that had styrofoam blocks for security and padding on the inside. That was a nice touch.

The case is very sleek and professional looking. I ordered the champagne color, which isn’t my favorite but I wasn’t willing to spend so much extra just to get a different color. I’m pleasantly surprised at how nice the “champagne” color looks – more of a gunmetal kind of color, very discreet and professional.

The hinges are secure and easy to open/close. The inside has a nice velvet lining with some padding around the inside, plus two bow holders and a pocket for small items, such as a rockstop or rosin. There is a raised area where the neck is secured and also a strap that fits over the top to secure it in place. There’s a sleeve on the back door storing sheet music.

The case is lightweight and has backpack straps for wearing, which is fairly comfortable. I do feel like the straps are a smidge too wide, but I am short/petite so it’s probably just me. They do have padding for comfort. There’s a strap that attaches at the top (optional) for when you want to pull the case with wheels. I will say, however, that pulling it really only works well on a smooth surface – walking down a hallway inside a building, through an airport or maybe even a smooth sidewalk. It would not be a good idea to pull it over a bumpy surface.

Overall, this case is a great deal and meets all my needs — easy to use, lightweight, attractive and durable. I would definitely recommend this purchase.