The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: blazian
Date: 2018-03-28 11:09
Hi all, good news! This isn't another question about what case to get for a Leblanc Eb Contra Alto, rather a solution.
My CA came in an decent paperclip CB case so I swapped it out so my CB would have a nice home. I started researching/shopping for an CA case and, of course, nothing was readily available. I decided to just make my own and found that the cheapest (and possibly best) option was a one-piece Protec bass clarinet case. After receiving my brand new case, promptly ripping out its innards, and reorganizing the blocks and supports, I think I have an almost factory-quality case.
I like the Protec cases because they're light to begin with. I also like the ability to add backpack straps on. I do a lot of gigs with this contra so now all I have to do is stick it on my back and go without worrying about my case falling apart on the way there. This particular model of case is the exact width of the original Leblanc case, so I took out one of the end blocks for the bottom end. Way easier than carving that shape back out in foam. If I had planned a tiny bit better, there would have been discrete places for the bell and neck. As it is, I'll probably just wrap them in cloth or buy a sax neck pouch.
If you're in need of a new case for a paperclip CA, I think this is a very good solution. It doesn't take long to customize and is as sturdy as you're willing to make it. A Tetris player may be able to make it into a double case with a soprano clarinet or flute thrown in.
- Martin
Post Edited (2018-03-28 11:54)
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Author: jdbassplayer
Date: 2018-03-28 18:01
Excellent work! I did something similar when I needed a case for a straight Leblanc contrabass, but it definitely didn't come out looking this good.
-Jdbassplayer
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Author: John Morton
Date: 2018-03-29 03:14
Thanks Martin for this fine idea. My EEb paperclip lives in its original case - a charming period piece but with drawbacks. Stowing the bell is one of those Tetris moves, and I often forget how to do it. I will do as you have done, including a soft bag for the bell and mouthpiece.
john
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Author: blazian
Date: 2018-03-29 10:52
The original cases were pretty good, but the storage being underneath is a little of a hassle. I keep forgetting to put the neck and mouthpiece away before the body. I always say I'll get it right next time...
- Martin
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