SKB SKB-66 Deluxe Universal Electric Guitar Case Black

Most Liked Positive Review

Pleasantly surprised for Ibanez SZ520QM

When I bought a used Ibanez SZ520QM last month, I knew I'd need better protection than the paper-thin gig bag that was sold with it. I wanted to find a case that's both strong and lightweight, which would protect the guitar from the weather, be easy to use, and shield the guitar from impacts. This case does all three. I had reservations about this case after reading mixed reviews. I could find only one review that mentioned my model of guitar, and it warned of the case not being deep enough and difficult to close. However, the manufacturer's website lists the Ibanez SZ series guitars as compatible with the case. When I came upon a deeply discounted Open Box SKB-66 at guitarcenter.com for only $11 more than what I paid for a nylon polyfoam case, I had to go for it. Upgrading to brand name hard case for only $16 (w/shipping) was too good an opportunity to pass, and I'm happy to say that my guitar fits nicely in the SKB-66. And there's room for a strap, picks, tuner, and extra strings. Needless to say, I'll soon be returning the polyfoam case/gigbag hybrid to that other big music store in town. My favorite feature is how the latches spring open and do not require much effort to lock in place. I wanted to rate the case five stars, but I'm deducting one quality star because of a quite popping sound I hear on the headstock end when closing the case lid. I think the problem might be due to a small misalignment between the top and bottom aluminum frames, possibly because of a hinge. It's a small issue that doesn't seem to affect functionality. If the problem gets worse, I'll take advantage of the case's limited lifetime warranty and submit a claim for repair or replacement.