I was in search of a case that would be good protection for my violin as well as be mobile with optimum storage as I travel internationally. This case was recommended to me by Shar and I absolutely love it! The storage space is great and fits my shoulder rest, rosin, tuner, etc., with plenty of room to spare! And the storage for music is very roomy. Slip it into my Joey Violin Case Carrier and I'm ready to go! Love it!

I have been using an American Case Company Manhattan case for several years and love it. So I thought I would step up to the Continental and I must say I am not as impressed as I thought I would be. Overall the case is well built and the design is excellent. But, there are some details I do not like. First, the rubber handle on the subway strap has a strong and unpleasant rubber odor, and when I handle it, I can smell it on my hands until I wash. Next, the Velcro strap that holds the violin in place is very short. I can see it wearing out to the point it won't hold within a year. I am also not impressed with the hygrometer mounted in the accessory pocket. It's hard enough to fit a shoulder rest in the pocket and with the mounting bracket for the hygrometer, I have no where to put the shoulder rest. Also the Hygrometer had a dead battery when I received it. I always thought the customer service at Shar was second to none. But all they said was that I should go buy a new battery. I realize a battery doesn't cost much, but one expects to receive a functioning product when it's new. What happened to the customer service at Shar?

I feel compelled to set the record straight on what I feel are some unfair observations in other reviews about the American Continental. Yes, the case is heavy, but it's heaviness is a result of being exceptionally well made with solid materials. If you want a very solid, highly protective, beautifully made case, and you don't mind an extra pound or two, then this is your case. I can put my Simon Fischer Basics book in the cover. How much more room would you expect? The rain flap is substantial--it's supposed to be. The subway handle has a very slight smell, but it's hardly obnoxious. Most cases won't accommodate a Bon Musica. I don't have one so I couldn't try it, but it does accommodate my Kun Super with extended feet just fine. The velcro strap is also substantially made and should last a lifetime. And Shar dropped in an extra battery for the hygro, thanks! I also like this lovely case because I don't like storing my violin in one of those plastic/aluminum/foam/carbon fiber petri dishes, and it's well worth the price compared to some of those. Excellent quality hardware, zippers, latches, and straps.

I always liked American Case Co. cases for one simple reason--protection. I've never had to test this, fortunately. This case surprised me. The storm flap is secured by magnets--but this is one case where magnets actually make sense. The inside appointments are classy, and it has a DOUBLE humidifier AND and very nice digital humidity/temperature gauge that is not instawlled--you can decide to take the foil off and apply it in the accessory compartment or even use it elsewhere. That's a feature I like (my choice). The strap and anchors appear to be excellent. I decided to keep the case--and use it, although I don't need another, it will replace one of my cheaper cases. I am in my 50th year since beginning vioiin at age 8, so I have seem many products come and go. I've always been with Shar.

Pros: The case is beautiful and I like the humidifying tube, the old-string tube hidden in the pocket, the securely latching compartments, and the 4 bow slots. Major Cons: I am going back to my old case as soon as I fix the handle because of 3 major cons with this continental case. (1) It is far, far too heavy. I have to cart it 8 blocks to work and back; (2) I just don't get why the pocket has to be so skimpy. You can put some loose-leaf pages in there, a tuner, a pencil, and nothing more. I sure can't fit my bon musica or a folder of music. (3) I find the rain fly to be a pain in the arse. I must struggle with it every time I open or close the case, whereas I am not sure I need super duper rain protection. Rain never got through the nice zipper on my other (cheaper, lighter) case.

I purchased an American Case Manhattan back it in 2006. I chose it for its accessible price point, light weight, and superb construction. When the sheet music pouch zipper finally failed this fall, I purchased the new American Case Continental. The new Continental included many of the features found of my old Manhattan case. I find this new American Case Continental comfortable in weight and a clear refinement over my old case: a definite "step up". Nice value/ fit and finish on the one I received!! The older case will now be my "great outdoors" option.

I've had this case for about three years now and it still looks brand new. It does have a little weight to it but it hasn't been an issue for me. The price is definitely a bargain now. I paid about $500 originally. I Would highly recommend this case for anyone wanting a case that will last for many years and wants a case that has excellent craftsmanship.