Several years ago, a well-known musician stopped by Encore A&S Cases to pick up a brand new made-to-measure case for his Fender amp. He put the amp into the case and loaded it into the back of his car. Once on the freeway he accelerated to full speed and the case slid backward and the metal reinforced corners shattered the rear window. It was unfortunate for his car, but at least his amp was still in great shape!
After all, you buy our cases to protect your prized possessions. And you want to get the most out of what’s protecting your gear. Here’s how to do that.
What should I know about purchasing a case?
Know how you usually travel. That information helps us design and build the appropriate case for you. Each case is unique and designed specifically for your needs. The more information we get from you the better.
Make sure to stay away from cheaply made cases made with flimsy black vinyl. It tears easily exposing the wood of your case to the elements. Our cases are only made with the highest quality materials. We understand how important your equipment is and take every step to protect it.
What sort of equipment will your cases protect?
Our cases can be made to protect all sorts of equipment. Some of the most common include:
- Movie props
- Deejay equipment
- Lighting
- Circus props
- Magician props
- Musical instruments
- Dance troupe equipment
- Records
- Music mixers
- Production equipment
This is just the beginning. Talk to one of our representatives and we can find a case that meets your specific needs. The options are virtually endless.
Can you design a unique one-of-a-kind custom case?
Absolutely. From custom colors on the outside to custom felts on the inside, we design your case to fit your needs and aesthetics. Talk to one of our expert representatives to discuss your needs. Our highly trained staff can help you through the decision-making process.
Some of our custom designs can even be quite elaborate. Recently we created a guitar case for a heavy metal rocker that looked exactly like a miniature coffin. Whatever your design needs we can make it happen. In fact, here at Encore A&S Cases, our motto is “You dream it, we build it.”
We used customized hardware, making our cases the sturdiest and most unique in the market.
What can I do to further protect my equipment?
Our cases are the best in the market and extremely durable. But there are steps you can take to further protect your expensive equipment.
When traveling, make sure to wrap your case in a shipping blanket. That keeps it from slipping around the back of your car, causing damage or even shattering your rear window. If you’re traveling in an open bed truck make sure to strap the case down. On highways, enough wind can get under your case causing it to lift out of the truck bed.
Know exactly what equipment you will be using your case to protect. That determines the type of foam used to line the inside of your case. If you’re transporting delicate props or equipment you’ll want to stay away from hard foam and choose something a bit softer. You can also ask for your case to be lined with velvet or felt. Remember, we make your case customized to your needs.
What steps can I take to protect my case?
Your case is made to last, but you can take certain steps to keep it in pristine shape. Replace the internal foam lining inside every ten years. Since the foam is petroleum based it breaks down over time and if left in your case too long can even begin to melt onto your equipment. It’s important to use a quality spray adhesive when gluing in your new foam. “Peel and stick” foam is of lesser quality and will fall apart.
A solid one-piece caster is an available option when buying a case. Once installed a caster will keep your wheels from being ripped from your case during travel.
How can I ensure that my case lasts a long time?
It might seem convenient to use your case as a step to reach something while you are traveling. But don’t do this. You want to protect your outer layer of covering, plus these coverings can be slippery turning your case into a dangerous step-stool.
Are your cases expensive?
Our cases are the most durable and well-made in the market. On the other hand, imported and cheap made cases will fall apart leaving you to buy a new case every few years.
Though our cases are made with the most high-quality materials, they are still quite affordable. Spend a little more money on a well-made custom-designed case, and it will last you for years. A low-cost case won’t be equal to one that was made with custom care.
Be careful of companies offering great deals on the internet. Often they offer “birch plywood” which is actually a low-quality knock-off sold as legitimate name brands. They are poor quality and the wood is thin.
Don’t assume all case companies are created equal. Stick with high-quality operators who keep their customer in mind by only using the highest quality materials and custom make everything to your exact needs. Doing your research will protect all your valuable equipment for years of traveling to come.
Since 1976, Encore A&S Cases has been making all types of cases for all kinds of artists: musicians, acting companies, dance troupes, magicians, circuses, and dozens of other specialties. If you’re looking for world-class craftsmanship and the highest quality materials, turn to Encore A&S Cases. We’re one of the world’s preeminent case suppliers because our cases are built to take the rigors of the road and keep their contents in pristine condition. Call us at 818-768-8803 or email info@encorecases.com.