How to Protect Audio Equipment During Transport
Audio Gear Is Fragile — Treat It That Way
Microphones have delicate diaphragms. Wireless receivers have sensitive RF components. Mixers have faders and knobs that bend and break. Audio equipment might look rugged, but it's surprisingly vulnerable to impact and vibration.
What Needs Hard Case Protection
Condenser Microphones
Large-diaphragm condensers are the most fragile audio equipment. A single drop can damage the capsule beyond repair. Every condenser mic should travel in its own foam-lined case — not loose in a gear bag.
Wireless Systems
Wireless transmitters, receivers, and in-ear monitor packs have antenna connectors and LCD screens that break easily. A hard case keeps everything organized and protected between gigs.
Portable Recorders
Field recorders like the Zoom F6 or Sound Devices MixPre are precision instruments. Custom foam prevents the knobs and faders from taking impact.
Studio Monitors (Transport)
Moving studio monitors between locations requires foam that supports the weight and prevents driver damage. Monitors should never travel face-down without protection.
Case Recommendations for Audio
Small Format (Mics, Wireless)
- Pelican 1400 — 2-3 microphones with shock mounts
- Nanuk 910 — single wireless system
- Nanuk 920 — wireless system with IEM and accessories
Medium Format (Mixers, Recorders)
- Pelican 1510 — portable mixer or field recorder kit
- SKB 3i-2011-7 — mid-size audio interface setup
- Pelican 1550 — multi-channel wireless rack
Large Format (Full Kits)
- Pelican 1600 — full live sound wireless kit
- SKB Rack Cases — rack-mounted equipment (2U-12U)
- Nanuk 945 — large format audio production kit
Foam Layout Tips for Audio
Microphone Orientation
Store microphones vertically with capsules facing up. This keeps moisture (if any) away from the diaphragm and provides consistent foam support along the body.
Cable Management
Dedicate a foam section for cables. Coiled XLR cables fit well in circular cavities. This prevents cables from pressing against fragile equipment.
Knob and Fader Protection
For mixers and recorders with protruding controls, cut foam cavities deep enough that controls don't contact the lid foam. A gap of at least 0.25 inches above the tallest knob prevents damage.
Phantom Power Sources
Keep phantom power supplies and batteries separated from microphones in the foam layout. This prevents accidental contact with connector pins.
Rack Cases vs. Foam Cases
For rack-mountable equipment (power amps, wireless receivers, signal processors), SKB and Gator rack cases with shock-mounted rails are the standard. For everything else, a hard case with CNC-cut foam provides better protection.
The ideal touring rig uses rack cases for rack gear and foam cases for microphones, wireless handhelds, and accessories.
Build Your Audio Foam Layout
CutMyCase works great for audio setups. Upload photos of your microphones, wireless packs, and accessories. Our AI captures the exact profile of each item, and you can arrange them in your case layout before we cut the foam.