Hakes Marine Ltd - NZSO Double Bass Cases

NZSO - Double Bass Cases

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra came to Hakes Marine with a special request to update their 100kg alloy double bass cases with something alittle more elegant and weight conscious, but still with a mind to protect these incredibly expensive and delicate musical instruments.

With Malcolm Struthers (NZSO bass player who headed the project) Hakes Marine shaped and built a new prototype. It incorporates recessed quality handles, catches and wheels for ease of movement.

Using the latest composite technology from SP Systems, a laminate was designed using their SPRINT system that produces a case of exceptional toughness, stiffness and of course very light. We then went to our local sail makers (Port Nicholson Sails) who developed an internal sling which completely suspends the instrument within the case.

The case complete weighs approx 30kg and has been tested on a world tour passing with flying colours. Hakes Marine now has a contract to supply eight cases to the orchestra totally equipping their bass department and looks forward to seeing this niche market develop as the orchestra tours the world and proudly showing off their carbon technology.