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Our first 'cello case was commissioned in 1976. Hand made in fibreglass, the cutting edge technology of the time, the cases have proved sturdy, reliable and highly protective. Many of our earliest cases are still in daily use by orchestras and individual players around the world after 20 years or more.

Our carbon composite cases have the strength and durability of fibreglass at almost half the weight. We are often asked whether the 4.7kg/10.4lb original model carbon case is as strong as our traditional fibreglass case. Our assessment is that it is very close, but because we were asked the question we made the 5.5kg/12.2lb case, which is definitely stronger than the fibreglass case while still remaining much lighter weight. We are now selling significantly more of these than the 4.7kg/10.4lb case.

Weight aside, however, fibreglass cases remain excellent tried and tested value.

We make two models of case, the original model and the smaller, classically shaped model. Both models can be made in carbon or fibreglass in a range of specifications. Because it is slightly smaller, the classically shaped case is lighter than the original model case for the equivalent specification. Its smoother, less bulky shape makes it easier to handle. However, the larger original model case has bigger clearances between the 'cello and the case. It is vital that any case has adequate clearances all around the 'cello, including the often forgotten clearance above the bridge. The original model's generous dimensions give good clearances for large instruments, and for exceptionally deep 'cellos we have a range of special deep lids.

• Ultra-Light Cases: We now make light carbon cases which, in our new smaller classically shaped model, can be as light as 2.2kg (4.9lb). We are happiest, however, with the cases weighing around 3kg (6.6lb) upwards because for only a small increase in the weight they have more durable hardware and, with a little more padding, are more protective - much better cases altogether. The 3kg (6.6lb) and the 4.2kg (9.2lb) cases have been the choice of a number of London professionals recently.

• Fit/Pads: Inside the case the 'cello is supported evenly by 22 individually sized foam pads which are normally covered in soft felt. Whenever possible the padding is made to fit a particular instrument. The dimensions of the 'cello should be measured using the fitting diagram and list of sizes. If the 'cello is unusually large or small, an outline drawn on newspaper of the whole instrument is helpful.

• Hardware/Accessories:The cases are fitted with superior bridle quality leather handles which are comfortable and easy to replace. All cases have a string pocket. Many 'cellists ask for wheels, which take much of the weight of the case and offer some cushioning over bumps. They are hard wearing with good quality ball bearings but they do add weight. Other options include replaceable fibreglass or carbon buffers for the top edge of the case and the bottom corner edges where they get most knocked. At present we make these for the original model case only. For tall 'cellos or for 'cellos with large end-pin units we can add an end-pin well at the base of the case which gives extra clearance above the scroll and below the end-pin. We can provide a strong shoulder carry strap or a choice of backpack straps (including the Fiedler system).

• Colour: Our cases are normally white but we can make them in any other colour on request. White cases reflect direct sunlight so that 'cellos are less likely to get hot inside. One orchestra, whose instruments were left standing outside at a Spanish airport in the midday summer sun, suffered no ill effects to their basses and 'cellos whereas the tam tam in its black case was so hot that its lacquer had melted.! Click here for the Black and White Story