screw bell case roundup

jbeatenbough · Post by **jbeatenbough** » Mon Oct 03, 2022 7:12 am

BTW, shires has the Marco Magi screw bell case On Sale for $400 at the moment. I just got one, and so far, I think it is awesome.

elmsandr · Post by **elmsandr** » Mon Oct 03, 2022 12:04 pm

jbeatenbough wrote: ↑Mon Oct 03, 2022 7:12 am BTW, shires has the Marco Magi screw bell case On Sale for $400 at the moment. I just got one, and so far, I think it is awesome.

Not sure if I noted this above, but I do have one of these for bass, and I like it, kinda.

Slide only works with Shires or Edwards length and width slides. No exceptions. No really, they just won't fit.

Bell section area is great. Does hold on my finger valve a little when I put it in the case, but not enough to cause any issues.

Still want to make something else, but never enough hours in the day to do something better.
Andy

Druidman · Post by **Druidman** » Thu May 11, 2023 8:46 am

Does anybody have any theories why Protec hasn't gotten into the screw bell game? Seems like they'd be a solid option based on the quality of their current lineup.

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Sat May 13, 2023 7:42 pm

Druidman wrote: ↑Thu May 11, 2023 8:46 am Does anybody have any theories why Protec hasn't gotten into the screw bell game? Seems like they'd be a solid option based on the quality of their current lineup.

and Bam, SKB, gator, Eastman...most all of them already make screw bell French horn cases.

BigBadandBass · Post by **BigBadandBass** » Mon May 15, 2023 3:59 pm

Chatname wrote: ↑Wed Feb 09, 2022 9:18 am Maybe already mentioned above, in that case I missed it:
Marcus Bonna also has a “baby” detachable bell case. Looks very compact. Does anyone have any experiences with it? How does it compare to Bonnas regular detachable bell case?

I have the bass version! It’s great, crazy small and dense. I was gonna make a separate post comparing it here after my graduation

BigBadandBass · Post by **BigBadandBass** » Mon May 15, 2023 4:00 pm

pompatus wrote: ↑Wed Feb 09, 2022 11:56 am Ooh, that MB baby case for detachable bell is new! I wish they had a bass version listed.

Jlandress has or had a posting, I’m pretty sure I bought the only one they had

Jbeckett · Post by **Jbeckett** » Sat May 20, 2023 3:31 pm

What are the best options and any non-standard options? Bonna, Bags, just looking for something different

Burgerbob · Post by **Burgerbob** » Sat May 20, 2023 3:52 pm

Bonna is the best.

harrisonreed · Post by **harrisonreed** » Sat May 20, 2023 4:01 pm

Is it possible to just merge and sticky this topic?

viewtopic.php?p=70297#p70297

Post by **BGuttman** » Sat May 20, 2023 4:10 pm

harrisonreed wrote: ↑Sat May 20, 2023 4:01 pm Is it possible to just merge and sticky this topic?

viewtopic.php?p=70297#p70297

OK. Done.

harrisonreed · Post by **harrisonreed** » Sat May 20, 2023 4:12 pm

BGuttman wrote: ↑Sat May 20, 2023 4:10 pm
harrisonreed wrote: ↑Sat May 20, 2023 4:01 pm Is it possible to just merge and sticky this topic?

viewtopic.php?p=70297#p70297
OK. Done.

Like a boss. Thanks Bruce!

TexHipp · Post by **TexHipp** » Fri May 26, 2023 7:15 pm

A diversion on this thread motivated me to investigate a perceived issue with my Marcus Bonna screw bell tenor case. While the materials and construction quality seem excellent, in my short time with this case, I have felt anxious about how close the slide and the F-attachment thumb pad come to each other. Thankfully, I have not experienced any damage, but in that thread bbocaner reported damage that they attributed to the case design.

This motivated me to take a more critical look at how the trombone parts fit into the case. The Marcus Bonna screw bell case uses a system of re-positionable foam blocks secured by Velcro-type strips. This allows us to customize the way the bell section is cradled. Until this morning, I had the bell flare as close to the end of the case as possible, under the idea that the flare would move less if the case fell on that end. However, the consequence of that position is that the bell flare raises the bell section higher in the direction of the slide compartment. Adjusting the bell flare+cover an inch towards the right means that it intersects the bell stem where it's narrower. This allows the bell section to sit lower in the base of the case. This also further lowers the thumb pad, giving more clearance to the slide.

The slide is held about 1/2" deep within the lid, and now the F-attachment thumb pad peeks over the rim by only the smallest amount, I'd estimate <1/8". With the bell section secured by the sturdy Velcro strap, any jarring that would decrease that margin would probably result in more widespread damage than merely the thumb paddle denting the slide.

I also asked the manufacturer about my concerns, and André Bonna quickly and kindly addressed my concerns. He confirmed my observation that the slide is inset within the lid and the bell section is inset within the lower portion of the case. He also pointed out that the case design intentionally places the lever near the midpoint of the slide tubes.

All in all, after adjusting the bell flare so the bell stem section sits lower, I've gained some confidence in the design of the Marcus Bonna screw bell case. I will be sure that each time I place the bell stem section in the case that it's snuggled down to the floor as far as possible.

mbarbier · Post by **mbarbier** » Sat May 27, 2023 3:12 pm

Jumping on TexHipp's comment, I've made a few mods to the Bona case that, to me, make it feel a bit more secure. Agreed with above comments that it works great but I also find it's got a bit of (quite correctable) wiggleroom. Disclaimer of I've had no issues of my horn getting damaged through a ton of travel and really love the case, also just ever paranoid about damaging my horn.

On the bell flair side, I don't really love that the bell flare is just sitting there empty and could potentially move, so I cut a piece of foam to fit around it to keep it more stable. It also allows a rubber plunger to fit under the flair with everything still fitting flush. Feels more secure to me to have the flair filled and one more thing I can keep in the case.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/2SyMJvwVvapEXRxr7

I also find the slide has a decent bit of side to side wiggle room, at least for my fairly narrow conn slide, so I added a small Velcro strip that holds it more tightly flush against the foam stopper that's there.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/bmpwu7t8iiQKrPST8

Apologies for the general dirtiness of my case- partially a suit case on the road and a cat bed at home!

Has anyone tried the new MB screw bell case that's a bit smaller?

Bassix · Post by **Bassix** » Fri Oct 06, 2023 9:57 am

https://picr.eu/i/9mOcV%0A
https://picr.eu/i/9mzFa%0A
https://picr.eu/i/9mPoY

Absolutely happy with the Bonna

SwissTbone · Post by **SwissTbone** » Fri Oct 06, 2023 11:58 am

I don't have a lot of experience with screw bell cases. But I thonk those coming with the Y-Fort trombones are really good:

I'll gladly take more pictures if you want to see more.

SamBTbrn · Post by **SamBTbrn** » Tue Nov 21, 2023 12:41 pm

SwissTbone wrote: ↑Fri Oct 06, 2023 11:58 am I don't have a lot of experience with screw bell cases. But I thonk those coming with the Y-Fort trombones are really good:

I'll gladly take more pictures if you want to see more.

Any Chance of posting a full review of the Y-forts?
It's been hard to find any information about them besides the website and Aidan's video on them.
Best
Sam

SwissTbone · Post by **SwissTbone** » Tue Nov 21, 2023 2:51 pm

SamBTbrn wrote: ↑Tue Nov 21, 2023 12:41 pm
SwissTbone wrote: ↑Fri Oct 06, 2023 11:58 am I don't have a lot of experience with screw bell cases. But I thonk those coming with the Y-Fort trombones are really good:

I'll gladly take more pictures if you want to see more.
Any Chance of posting a full review of the Y-forts?
It's been hard to find any information about them besides the website and Aidan's video on them.
Best
Sam

I have played on an Y-Fort yellow brass screw bell exclusively since October. It's definitely a really nice horn. Plays a little clearer than what I'm used from my Bach 42's, but the sound is very malleable - I like that. The valve is really good. No stickiness at all. Not as open as a Thayer, but a good compromise of openness and resistance. I'd like the throw to be a little shorter. But you can get used to it.

The slide is ok. A little noisy, but when clean and well lubricated it's still very good.

Bonus points for projection: I really have to be aware of that. Work smarter, not harder.

EZSlider · Post by **EZSlider** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 8:51 am

What is the smallest case a available? Just got a Yammy 891z with a screwbell.. looking for a case made for a straight small jazz horn.
If anyone knows of a non standard case I'm all ears too
EZ

muschem · Post by **muschem** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 9:47 am

EZSlider wrote: ↑Mon Dec 25, 2023 8:51 am What is the smallest case a available? Just got a Yammy 891z with a screwbell.. looking for a case made for a straight small jazz horn.
If anyone knows of a non standard case I'm all ears too
EZ

Not sure if it’s the smallest, but the Marcus Bonna for small tenor is great: https://mbcases.com/portfolio/cases/tro ... z-trombone

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 10:23 am

jacobgarchik wrote: ↑Tue Sep 13, 2022 9:43 am The smallest cases I believe are the Lawler soft case and the Holton flat case.

EZSlider · Post by **EZSlider** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 1:24 pm

muschem wrote: ↑
Not sure if it’s the smallest, but the Marcus Bonna for small tenor is great: https://mbcases.com/portfolio/cases/tro ... z-trombone

Thanks Mike.. yeah the jazz screwbell looks pretty small, but looking to get out of it a bit cheaper and a bit smaller..
EZ

EZSlider · Post by **EZSlider** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 1:25 pm

jacobgarchik wrote: ↑Mon Dec 25, 2023 10:23 am
jacobgarchik wrote: ↑Tue Sep 13, 2022 9:43 am The smallest cases I believe are the Lawler soft case and the Holton flat case.

Thanks but I guess maybe I needed to clarify looking for something that can actually be purchased
EZ

BigBadandBass · Post by **BigBadandBass** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 2:18 pm

EZSlider wrote: ↑Mon Dec 25, 2023 1:25 pm
Thanks but I guess maybe I needed to clarify looking for something that can actually be purchased
EZ

Bonna baby case may smallest and easily purchasable on the market

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Mon Dec 25, 2023 7:02 pm

I think those cases from Peru are cheaper than Bonna and around the same size...I have heard it's relatively easy to order from him but have not done so. I think you will need some Spanish language skills. Maybe a good way to save a $100 or so! his cases look cool.
https://www.facebook.com/estuches.Jonny.Villena

EZSlider · Post by **EZSlider** » Thu Dec 28, 2023 8:56 pm

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1022999752?pid=502581
Strongly considering one of these for my 891Z.. will keep y'all informed if I do
EZ

SamBTbrn · Post by **SamBTbrn** » Wed Jan 03, 2024 10:50 am

Alibaba sold copy of the Marcus Bonna screw bell. Maybe this is the company that makes the cases for Y-fort?

https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/ ... arent=true

pbone3b · Post by **pbone3b** » Tue Jan 30, 2024 7:58 am

muschem wrote: ↑Mon Dec 25, 2023 9:47 am Not sure if it’s the smallest, but the Marcus Bonna for small tenor is great: https://mbcases.com/portfolio/cases/tro ... z-trombone

I like mine. It was kind of a splurge, price-wise, but once you've decided to go with a cut bell, you're already pretty invested, so why not? I did have the pleasure of fitting it into one of those weird over-head spaces where they store the first aid gear and other stuff. None of the rollie-bags fit, but my case tucked right in.

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Wed Feb 07, 2024 1:00 pm

From Littin comes a viola shaped case with a glossy exterior.

Screen Shot 2024-02-07 at 2.58.08 PM.png

Screen Shot 2024-02-07 at 2.58.17 PM.png

https://www.littin-musik.de/littin-bags/?lang=en

elmsandr · Post by **elmsandr** » Thu Feb 08, 2024 5:19 am

Man, I’d love one of those in Bass trombone. Hard case, latches, tiny. Darned near perfect.

Cheers,
Andy

Posaunus · Post by **Posaunus** » Thu Feb 08, 2024 11:20 am

elmsandr wrote: ↑Thu Feb 08, 2024 5:19 am Man, I’d love one of those in Bass trombone. Hard case, latches, tiny. Darned near perfect.

Cheers,
Andy

And you might get misidentified as a violist.
What could be better?

Burgerbob · Post by **Burgerbob** » Thu Feb 08, 2024 11:40 am

I currently have a prototype from a big maker... Stay posted

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Wed Feb 28, 2024 8:00 am

Thein has these viola shaped cases too, apparently made by DAC

https://fb.watch/qv0_gq22x1/

bassbone1993 · Post by **bassbone1993** » Wed Feb 28, 2024 1:26 pm

Burgerbob wrote: ↑Thu Feb 08, 2024 11:40 am I currently have a prototype from a big maker... Stay posted

Oooooo

EZSlider · Post by **EZSlider** » Wed Feb 28, 2024 2:05 pm

bassbone1993 wrote: ↑Wed Feb 28, 2024 1:26 pm
Burgerbob wrote: ↑Thu Feb 08, 2024 11:40 am I currently have a prototype from a big maker... Stay posted
Oooooo

We're listening
EZ

EZSlider · Post by **EZSlider** » Sun Sep 29, 2024 7:14 pm

Still listening
EZ

Inversion64 · Post by **Inversion64** » Fri Nov 29, 2024 11:43 am

I recently bought some cases from BrassGalaxy
Bass fiberglass and an all new screw bell for my cut bell Yamaha.

Wait time was 6-12,weeks since all hand made in Spain and Brazil.
Beautifully made too.

There is a new screw bell bag coming very soon from Europe

bassbone1993 · Post by **bassbone1993** » Fri Nov 29, 2024 3:39 pm

Inversion64 wrote: ↑Fri Nov 29, 2024 11:43 am I recently bought some cases from BrassGalaxy
Bass fiberglass and an all new screw bell for my cut bell Yamaha.

Wait time was 6-12,weeks since all hand made in Spain and Brazil.
Beautifully made too.

There is a new screw bell bag coming very soon from Europe

Pictures?

SackbutRoyale · Post by **SackbutRoyale** » Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:00 am

Are any of the cases listed hard shell cases? Or are they basically gig bags?

Burgerbob · Post by **Burgerbob** » Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:02 am

SackbutRoyale wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:00 am Are any of the cases listed hard shell cases? Or are they basically gig bags?

I'm not sure if any of them are gig bags, most are hard cases.

SackbutRoyale · Post by **SackbutRoyale** » Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:09 am

Burgerbob wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:02 am
SackbutRoyale wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:00 am Are any of the cases listed hard shell cases? Or are they basically gig bags?
I'm not sure if any of them are gig bags, most are hard cases.

Thanks! That's what I needed to know. I'm about to purchase a Yamaha YBL-835GD, and for some reason, Yamaha doesn't provide cases for those horns! In fact, from the unboxing videos I've seen, they don't provide cases for ANY of their bass trombones! I wonder why that is?

Burgerbob · Post by **Burgerbob** » Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:18 am

SackbutRoyale wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:09 am
Burgerbob wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:02 am

I'm not sure if any of them are gig bags, most are hard cases.
Thanks! That's what I needed to know. I'm about to purchase a Yamaha YBL-835GD, and for some reason, Yamaha doesn't provide cases for those horns! In fact, from the unboxing videos I've seen, they don't provide cases for ANY of their bass trombones! I wonder why that is?

They do for the uncut bells, but they didn't develop a case for the D models.

SackbutRoyale · Post by **SackbutRoyale** » Wed Dec 18, 2024 11:11 am

Thanks for all your responses. I think I've made my decision. I appreciate you.

JLivi · Post by **JLivi** » Wed Dec 18, 2024 5:52 pm

SackbutRoyale wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:09 am Thanks! That's what I needed to know. I'm about to purchase a Yamaha YBL-835GD, and for some reason, Yamaha doesn't provide cases for those horns! In fact, from the unboxing videos I've seen, they don't provide cases for ANY of their bass trombones! I wonder why that is?

I just talked to Yamaha reps today at the Midwest band clinic and they mentioned to me that players that order detachable bells are usually pros and have after market cases. And they also mentioned that if they bought a Yamaha detachable bell that they wouldn't want the stock case and would most likely upgrade anyway.

Also, I played the 835 today. It was a great horn!

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Thu Dec 19, 2024 7:45 am

Burgerbob wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:02 am
SackbutRoyale wrote: ↑Tue Dec 17, 2024 11:00 am Are any of the cases listed hard shell cases? Or are they basically gig bags?
I'm not sure if any of them are gig bags, most are hard cases.

There was a Lawler gig bag.
There was a page on the Cronkhite site about a gig bag but with no picture. The page has been taken down. I don't think they ever made one.

Way back when I first was starting to investigate getting the screw bell I corresponded with Cronkhite himself about making a screw bell case and he said it wouldn't be a big deal once they figured out the pattern. By the time I got the work done to the horn he was gone.

I think Superfine made a case.

After owning a Basilli for 15 years, very similar to a Bonna, I've decided it hurts my back. I'll still use it to travel. I am a gig bag fan for around NYC unless i go on a plane. We really need some ergonomic options, like the cello players have, with lumbar support similar to a hiking backpack.

tromboneVan · Post by **tromboneVan** » Thu Feb 06, 2025 2:49 pm

This is the case that I went with... fits a cut-bell alto, and tenor. The bells nest inside each other. Still in the process of getting my alto (and my bass) bells cut.. it would be a trip if my 180 fits in there.

https://mbcases.com/portfolio/cases/tro ... r-and-alto

bassbone1993 · Post by **bassbone1993** » Fri Feb 14, 2025 10:48 am

Protec actually did one? The inside looks really similar to their MAX cases which I've always had issues with. AFAIK, no bass version yet.

Burgerbob · Post by **Burgerbob** » Fri Feb 14, 2025 11:09 am

Yes, I had their prototype. Not a bad case, much larger than the Bonna style in length. Holds the horn well and is very light.

bassbone1993 · Post by **bassbone1993** » Fri Feb 14, 2025 11:46 am

Also looks a bit wider. Hopefully they'll be a bass version.

Tatertotplaystrombone · Sat Feb 15, 2025 3:51 pm

bassbone1993 wrote: ↑Fri Feb 14, 2025 11:46 am Also looks a bit wider. Hopefully they'll be a bass version.

I talked to the sales rep at the booth and they said they are working on a bass version. They said it will hit the market probably end of this year or early next.

jacobgarchik · Post by **jacobgarchik** » Sat Feb 15, 2025 4:31 pm

Looks thick. Thickness is the key metric, IMO. Thickness is the difference between fitting in the little overheads or not, not length or width.
Anyway, baby steps. Only took them 10+ years of people asking. Where are BAM and Eastman, or for that matter, stock cases from Yamaha or Conn/Selmer/Bach?
(I am still waiting for a Cronkhite style gig bag without exterior detachable slide which I also believe is bad for plane success strategy)