bam 2200XLW Viola Case

I've been using the pricier Bam Panther viola case (PANT2200XLN) for two years now, and it's great. However, I decided to get this one because I'd be more comfortable carrying my viola in a white case on sunny days rather than in the matte black Panther one.

This case is virtually the same, but with a different finish (not glossy, but smooth), and a different handle. I prefer the handle on the Panther case because it stays put; the handle on the white case bangs around while walking with the case on as a backpack. The only other difference between the cases is the little placket inside the lid - the Panther one says "handmade in France", while this one says "handmade by Bam", but I really see no difference in quality of assembly or materials.

Word of warning for this type of Bam case, even though my 41 cm viola fits nicely and the case is customizable when it comes to body length, rib height might be an issue. Mine is already a bit pushing it at 4.8 cm (bottom plate to top of the bridge is about 11.7 cm) and a low chinrest.

The only thing I'm really disappointed with is the fact that the case came with a little dent on the lid right out of the box. It's not big, but the smooth white finish means it's visible. The packaging doesn't show any damage that would correspond with the dent and mean that it got damaged during transit, so I'm inclined to conclude that it's a manufacturing and/or quality control issue straight from Bam. I would expect much, much better with such a pricy case. It should come in pristine condition. I've had issues with Bam's customer service before, so I'm starting to feel dissatisfied with the whole company.