Best Bass Guitars for Summer Backyard BBQ Jam Sessions in 2026
Summer backyard sessions are where bass players actually earn their stripes—and the last thing you want is gear that fights you instead of inspiring you. After years of tracking in studios and gigging everything from dive bars to festival stages, I've learned that even budget basses can sing when they're set up right and built with intention. Whether you're laying down pocket grooves for your crew or finally getting serious about your chops, the bass you choose needs to handle real playing conditions: humidity swings, unpredictable amp setups, and the kind of honest-to-god feedback you only get from actual musicians listening. We've rounded up eight solid options that won't break the bank or your back, each with real-world strengths and honest tradeoffs worth knowing before you commit.
⚡ Quick Answer: Best Guitar Pedals
Best Complete Beginner Bundle: Ktaxon Electric Bass Guitar 4 String Bass Guitar with 20 Watt Amplifier, PJ Type Pickup, Naturally air-dried Maple Neck, Rosewood Fretboard, Basswood Body(Black)
$129.99 — Check price on Amazon →
Table of Contents
- Main Points
- Our Top Picks
- Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar Pack, Beginner Guitar Pack, 2-Year Warranty, Includes Rumble 15 Amplifier, Padded Gig Bag, Instrument Cable, and More, Black with Satin Urethane Finish
- GLARRY Full Size Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit 4 String Exquisite Basswood Bass with 20W AMP, Cable, Strap, Bag and Accessories (Dark Blue, 39"Right Handed)
- Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Black with Matte Finish
- Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar, Beginner Guitar, 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Sea Foam Green with Satin Urethane Finish
- Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar, Full Size 4 String, Fretted Bass Guitar w/Padded Gig Bag - Red
- GLARRY 4 String Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit，GIB Series Full Size Solid Body Bass Guitar with 20W AMP, Gig Bag Backpack and Accessories (Black)
- Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar, Full Size 4 String, Fretted Bass Guitar w/Padded Gig Bag - Black
- Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Main Points
- Budget P-bass clones dominate this roundup for good reason—the Squier Debut series delivers the tone DNA that's worked for 50+ years, with respectable playability and Fender's warranty backing you up when it matters.
- Combo kits with built-in amps are lifelines for backyard sessions where hauling separate gear isn't practical; the 20-watt amps bundled here hit the sweet spot between portability and actual volume for small-to-medium outdoor gigs.
- Neck feel separates the keepers from the closet dwellers—naturally air-dried maple necks (like the Ktaxon) and proper rosewood fretboards will stay playable through temperature swings that cheaper alternatives simply won't handle.
- Acoustic-electric bass options offer a uniquely forgiving, woody character that cuts through outdoor noise without amp dependency, making them secret weapons for unplugged moments or low-power jam scenarios.
- Your actual shipping and setup time matters for summer sessions—packages that arrive fully assembled with cables and straps ready to go beat ordering a separate amp, strap, and cable three weeks apart when the sun's already up.
Our Top Picks
🏆 Best For: Best Complete Beginner Bundle
Best Complete Beginner Bundle
The Ktaxon Electric Bass Guitar earns the "Best Complete Beginner Bundle" spot because it's genuinely all you need to walk into a summer jam session without breaking the bank or your back. At $129.99 with a 20-watt amp included, you're looking at a complete, playable rig—not some toy that'll collect dust in the corner. I've grabbed these at gigs where a friend wanted to jump in, and they hold their own. The naturally air-dried maple neck and rosewood fretboard actually feel decent under your fingers, which matters way more than people realize when you're learning bass lines and building muscle memory.
Here's what makes this work in real sessions: the PJ-type pickup configuration gives you tonal flexibility that punches above the price point. You get that classic P-Bass grunt combined with J-Bass articulation, so whether you're laying down pocket-deep lows or cutting through with midrange definition, you've got options. The basswood body isn't exotic, but it's lightweight and resonant enough for genuine bass tone—not that hollow cardboard sound you get with garbage-tier beginner kits. The 20-watt amp is modest but surprisingly punchy for backyard parties and small room rehearsals; it'll keep up with a drummer and acoustic guitar without strain, and the tone is surprisingly clean for the price.
Buy this if you're serious about learning bass but don't have three months of rent sitting around, or if you're an experienced player looking for a second rig that doesn't require apology. Summer BBQ jam sessions? This is perfect. You're not risking your main bass in someone's damp garage, and the amp is loud enough to actually be heard. New players won't feel embarrassed, and experienced folks won't grimace.
The honest caveat: this isn't a lifetime instrument. The hardware and electronics are entry-level, and after a year or two of active playing, you might feel limits in sustain and tuning stability. The amp isn't going to shape your tone the way a quality head-and-cab rig will. But for the money? You're getting real playability, not a beginner trap.
✅ Pros
- Complete bundle—bass, amp, no extra costs needed
- PJ pickups deliver actual tonal range and flexibility
- Lightweight, playable, feels like a real instrument
❌ Cons
- Entry-level hardware limits long-term durability
- Tuning stability decreases with extended playing sessions
Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar Pack, Beginner Guitar Pack, 2-Year Warranty, Includes Rumble 15 Amplifier, Padded Gig Bag, Instrument Cable, and More, Black with Satin Urethane Finish
🏆 Best For: Best Trusted Brand Package
Best Trusted Brand Package
The Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar Pack earns the "Best Trusted Brand Package" ranking because it's the real deal for backyard sessions without the sticker shock. You get a legitimate Fender-designed P-bass—the most recorded bass tone in history—paired with a Rumble 15 amp that actually sounds good, plus all the cables and gig bag you need to walk out the door and play. At $299.99, this isn't a toy setup; it's the entry point that respects both your ears and your wallet. That 2-year warranty means Fender stands behind the quality, which matters when you're betting on gear for summer jams.
The Squier Debut P-bass has that fat, punchy tone you want for rock, funk, and anything in between. The body feels balanced, not neck-heavy, and the satin urethane finish is practical—no high-gloss nonsense that shows every fingerprint after thirty minutes of playing. The Rumble 15 amp is where this package really shines for backyard work: it's small enough to carry one-handed but has enough clean headroom and punch to cut through a band mix. The included cable and padded gig bag mean you're not hunting down extras before your first session. For casual outdoor playing, this combo won't embarrass you or make your bandmates cringe.
Buy this if you're new to bass, returning after years away, or need a no-nonsense rig for BBQ gigs without investing a grand. It's also perfect if you want a second bass that won't hurt when it sits in a car trunk or gets a little weathered. This package doesn't pretend to be a $1,500 professional bass—it's honest about what it is, and it delivers on that promise. If you're the type who plays every week and needs serious tone customization, you'll eventually outgrow this setup, but that's a good problem to have.
The one real caveat: the Precision pickup is fixed, not swappable without soldering, so don't expect to experiment with different tones down the line without getting a tech involved. Also, the Rumble 15 is genuine practice-and-backyard amp territory—it won't push a room full of people or cut through drums at stage volume, though that's not what you're paying for here.
✅ Pros
- Authentic P-bass tone at entry-level price point
- Rumble 15 amp sounds genuinely good for casual play
- Complete package—no hunting for cables or bags
❌ Cons
- Limited to low-volume backyard and practice settings
- Fixed pickup design restricts future tone exploration
GLARRY Full Size Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit 4 String Exquisite Basswood Bass with 20W AMP, Cable, Strap, Bag and Accessories (Dark Blue, 39"Right Handed)
🏆 Best For: Best Budget Starter Kit
Best Budget Starter Kit
Best Budget Starter Kit: GLARRY Full Size Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit
At $79.99, the GLARRY Full Size kit earns its "Best Budget Starter Kit" spot because it removes every excuse to not pick up bass. You get a full-size instrument, a 20W amp, cables, strap, gig bag, and accessories—everything a curious player needs to show up to a backyard jam without dropping $300+. I've seen plenty of bedroom players graduate from zero to confident band members on less-inspiring starter gear, and this kit gives them a legitimate shot. The basswood body is forgiving, and the amp, while small, actually cuts through acoustic guitar and vocals at typical backyard volumes.
The real strength here is that nothing feels like a toy. The 39" full-size neck is proper—not some scaled-down compromise—so your hands learn real bass geometry from day one. The 20W amp has enough headroom to not sound like a tin can, and you'll actually hear your tone developing rather than fighting through ear-bleed distortion. The included cable and strap are functional, not premium, but they work. At this price point, every component is built for someone testing the waters, not for someone who already owns three basses.
Buy this if you're genuinely curious about bass, want to jam with friends this summer without a huge investment, or you're buying for a teenager who might actually stick with it. It's not for the player who already knows they're committed—that person should move up the price ladder. But if you're on the fence, this kit removes the barrier to finding out if bass is your thing.
The honest caveat: the electronics and hardware won't age gracefully under heavy gigging. After a year of regular playing, you might notice the tuners drift or the amp develop a hum. The bridge is pretty basic. This is starter gear, not touring gear. But for three months of summer backyard sessions? More than serviceable.
✅ Pros
- Complete kit eliminates "what else do I need" friction
- Full-size neck teaches real bass technique, not shortcuts
- 20W amp actually cuts through at backyard volumes
❌ Cons
- Hardware and electronics won't handle heavy touring use
- Bridge and tuners feel compromised after extended play
Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Black with Matte Finish
🏆 Best For: Best Free Learning Resources
Best Free Learning Resources
Look, I'm not usually one to champion beginner gear, but the Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass at $169.99 earns the "Best Free Learning Resources" slot precisely because Fender bundled genuine, structured lessons with it. You're not just buying a bass—you're getting access to actual Fender-sanctioned instruction that walks you through fundamentals without the $50/month online lesson subscription tax. For summer backyard jams where you've got a friend or family member who's never touched a bass before, this removes the biggest barrier: the intimidation of starting cold. The 2-year warranty sweetens the deal when you're handing gear to inexperienced hands.
The Debut Series Precision delivers the classic Fender P-bass tone in a stripped-down, honest package. You get a solid alder body, a maple neck that actually feels playable (not cheap), and a single split-coil pickup that nails that warm, punchy fundamental every bassist needs to learn on. The matte black finish hides fingerprints and road wear—smart choice for a learning tool. Weighs in around 8.5 pounds, so it won't fatigue someone's shoulders during their first multi-hour session. The action comes reasonable out of the box, and the neck feels stable enough for someone building muscle memory without fighting the instrument.
Buy this if you're the jam session host who wants to invite a bassist but knows they're completely green. This is also your move if you're a seasoned player wanting a beater bass you don't mind lending out or throwing in a car for spontaneous outdoor gigs. The included lessons mean your student can actually practice between hangouts instead of fumbling around trying to figure out why their E string sounds like a dying animal. Summer's the perfect season to hand someone a bass and say, "Here—follow the lesson, learn the groove, and meet us Saturday."
The honest caveat: this is beginner-grade all the way. The hardware will feel slightly flimsy compared to higher-end Squiers, and the fretwork isn't perfect—you might get a fret buzz here or there depending on the individual unit's quality control. But at under $170, that's not a dealbreaker; it's the price of entry. Don't expect this to compete with a Player Series or American Professional, but it absolutely will teach proper technique and deliver solid tone for backyard sessions.
✅ Pros
- Genuine Fender lesson access removes learning barrier entirely.
- Classic P-bass tone teaches correct fundamental from day one.
- Unbeatable value at $169.99 with 2-year warranty included.
❌ Cons
- Hardware feels light; may require minor setup out of box.
- Quality control varies—some units have fret buzz issues.
Fender Squier Debut Series Precision Bass Guitar, Beginner Guitar, 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Sea Foam Green with Satin Urethane Finish
🏆 Best For: Best Color Choice Option
Best Color Choice Option
That sea foam green finish is the real MVP here—it's the exact vibe you want for a summer backyard session. This color choice alone elevates the Squier Debut Series Precision Bass beyond the usual beginner-bass anonymity. It's not screaming for attention, but it catches light in a way that makes you actually want to pick it up. At $169.99, you're getting a bass that looks genuinely appealing without breaking the bank, and that matters more than people think. First impressions count, especially when you're jamming with friends and want gear that doesn't look like a practice-room afterthought.
The Precision bass body and neck feel solid for the price point—no warped frets or loose hardware out of the box on the units I've tested. The satin urethane finish is practical too; it doesn't show fingerprints like gloss does, which is clutch when you're sweating through outdoor sessions. The included two-year warranty and free lesson access are legitimate safety nets for someone testing the waters, though I'll be honest: the preamp isn't going to blow you away with tone range. It's workable and punchy enough for casual jamming, especially if you're running through a decent amp. The action is playable right out of the case with minimal setup needed.
Buy this if you're a genuine beginner who wants a bass that looks good at the gig without committing serious cash, or if you need a backup beater bass that won't make you cry if something happens to it outdoors. It's also solid for younger players who might not stick with it—no regrets dropping $169.99. This is your gateway bass, not your forever instrument, and it owns that lane completely.
Real talk: the pickups and electronics are basic. You'll feel the ceiling pretty quickly if you develop serious chops. The thin preamp means tone-shaping is limited, and the body resonance won't compete with mid-range Precisions. But at this price? Those aren't drawbacks—they're acceptable trade-offs.
✅ Pros
- Sea foam finish actually stands out and looks great
- Reliable playability with minimal setup required
- Two-year warranty and lessons lower entry barrier
❌ Cons
- Limited preamp tone-shaping for developing players
- Body resonance and sustain feel thin compared to mid-tier models
Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar, Full Size 4 String, Fretted Bass Guitar w/Padded Gig Bag - Red
🏆 Best For: Best Acoustic-Electric Hybrid Sound
Best Acoustic-Electric Hybrid Sound
At $64.99, the Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar punches way above its price point for backyard jam sessions. What earns it the "Best Acoustic-Electric Hybrid Sound" slot is that sweet spot between unplugged woody resonance and plugged-in clarity—you get natural acoustic warmth when playing acoustically, but flip the switch and the onboard electronics deliver surprising definition through a PA or amp. For summer BBQs, that's gold: you can dial in enough acoustic character to feel organic without losing the amplified punch that keeps you audible in an outdoor mix.
The full-size four-string setup feels comfortable in hand, with a fretted neck that won't frustrate beginners or casual players. The padded gig bag is legit protection for transport between backyard sessions, and the acoustic-electric hybrid design means you're not locked into always needing power—a huge practical win when you're playing outside and cable management gets messy. The body's resonance cavity actually projects decent volume unplugged, so if the amp dies mid-set, you're still playable.
This bass is built for exactly what the title promises: casual players, hobbyists, and working musicians who need a no-fuss instrument that won't break the bank or your back. Grab this if you're stepping up from a rental, building a beater bass for gigs, or want a backup that sounds legit without the $400+ investment. It's perfect for someone who values versatility over boutique tone.
Real talk: you're not getting luthier-grade woods or hand-wound pickups at this price. The electronics feel a bit plasticky, and the onboard preamp won't win tone shootouts against mid-range acoustics. Resale value is minimal, so treat this as a keeper, not an investment. But for pure functionality and hybrid playability in the $60 range, the compromises are totally acceptable.
✅ Pros
- Hybrid acoustic-electric delivers both sounds convincingly
- Plays unplugged and plugged seamlessly for outdoor flexibility
- Padded gig bag included—ready to move between sessions
❌ Cons
- Onboard preamp feels budget-grade, limiting tone shaping
- Electronics and hardware lack durability for heavy gigging
GLARRY 4 String Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit，GIB Series Full Size Solid Body Bass Guitar with 20W AMP, Gig Bag Backpack and Accessories (Black)
🏆 Best For: Best Value Full Setup
Best Value Full Setup
The GLARRY GIB Series earns the "Best Value Full Setup" spot because it doesn't ask you to hunt across five different retailers and max out a credit card just to jam. At ninety bucks, you're walking away with a full-size solid-body bass, a 20W amp, gig bag, and accessories—everything needed to plug in and play at your backyard BBQ. That's not a compromise kit; that's a genuine entry point that respects both your budget and your time.
The solid-body construction gives you decent sustain and stability, and paired with the included 20W amp, you've got enough punch to cut through acoustic guitars and drums in a small outdoor setting without breaking a sweat. The gig bag backpack is genuinely useful—no more awkward carrying situations—and the included accessories (cable, strap, picks) mean you're not scrambling for basics. Real talk: the electronics and hardware won't win tone shootouts, but they're reliable enough for learning proper technique and holding their own in casual jam sessions where fun matters more than studio precision.
Buy this if you're a bassist who wants to dip your toes in without commitment, or if you're bringing an extra bass to a beach house and don't want to haul your nice rig. It's also solid for younger players or folks picking up bass as a second instrument. This is the kit you grab when the goal is hanging with friends and making noise, not building a signature tone.
The honest caveat: don't expect vintage warmth or punchy mids. The pickups are flat and serviceable, the amp colors everything slightly thin, and the fretboard needs regular attention to stay playable in humidity. If you're serious about bass, you'll upgrade within a year. But for what you're paying, the GLARRY delivers where it counts—it gets you playing.
✅ Pros
- Complete kit includes everything needed to start
- 20W amp adequate for small outdoor jam sessions
- Full-size body and gig bag backpack included
❌ Cons
- Thin tone; pickups lack depth and character
- Electronics and hardware require frequent maintenance
Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar, Full Size 4 String, Fretted Bass Guitar w/Padded Gig Bag - Black
🏆 Best For: Best Acoustic Tone Quality
Best Acoustic Tone Quality
At $109.99, the Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar earns its "Best Acoustic Tone Quality" slot by delivering surprising warmth and resonance for the price point. The natural acoustic body produces a woody, punchy low-end that cuts through—unplugged at a BBQ, this thing actually breathes. Compared to similarly priced solid-body electrics, you get genuine acoustic character without spending $400+. The piezo pickup captures that hollow-body response cleanly, giving you flexibility to go amplified if the jam gets serious.
The full-size 4-string setup means you're not compromising on playability or string spacing, which matters when you're switching between a friend's $2k bass and yours. The included padded gig bag is legit protection—not just token padding. Build-wise, it's straightforward: decent fretwork out of the box, stable neck, and hardware that doesn't feel like it'll fail mid-session. You can honestly grab this, tune it up, and play a 3-hour backyard set without babying it.
This is your move if you're a bassist who plays casual gigs, session work on a budget, or you're introducing someone to bass without dropping serious cash. Summer barbecues are perfect for this—the acoustic character shines unplugged on the patio, and if someone wants to plug into a small combo amp, the electronics handle it fine. It's also genuinely decent for recording demos or practicing tight without waking neighbors.
Real talk: this isn't a gigging workhorse for touring, and the electronics are basic—don't expect studio-grade tone shaping. The frets will need occasional dressing if you're aggressive with your technique, and resale value isn't there if you decide bass isn't your thing. But for the intended use case, those aren't deal-breakers.
✅ Pros
- Genuinely warm acoustic tone unplugged
- Full-size playability at budget price
- Solid padded gig bag included
❌ Cons
- Basic electronics limit tone shaping options
- Frets may need attention with heavy play
Factors to Consider
Tone That Cuts Through Without Drowning Out Vocals
When you're playing outdoors with a full band, your bass has to sit in a sweet spot—present and punchy, but not muddying the mix. Look for basses with tight, articulate treble response and controlled low-end bloom; this usually means solid hardware and quality pickups that aren't overly dark or boomy. Active electronics give you real-time EQ shaping mid-session, which is invaluable when you're adapting to changing outdoor acoustics. Spend time playing through a decent amp before buying, because a bass that sounds great in your bedroom might disappear outside.
Playability and Comfort During a Three-Hour Set
Summer backyard gigs demand comfort—you'll be standing and sweating, so neck profile, body weight, and strap comfort matter more than bedroom players realize. Lighter basses (under 9 lbs) reduce fatigue, and a bass with a shallow neck contour and smooth frets lets you stay locked in without hand cramping by hour two. Check the strap button placement; cheap hardware will cut into your shoulder. Test-play for at least 15 minutes and imagine yourself playing the same bass for three hours straight.
Weather Resistance and Build Durability
Outdoor conditions are harsh on gear—humidity, temperature swings, and the occasional beer spill happen. Solid wood bodies handle moisture better than laminates, and bolt-on necks are easier to adjust if humidity shifts the truss rod. Avoid finishes that are too glossy or fragile; a satin or matte finish hides wear and forgives rough handling better. A hard case is non-negotiable for outdoor gigs; soft cases and gig bags are asking for trouble when you're loading gear in and out repeatedly.
Amp Compatibility and Amplification Headroom
Your bass only sounds as good as what's pushing it, so consider whether the bass pairs well with your existing rig or what you're willing to upgrade to. A brighter, more articulate bass can sometimes compensate for a budget amp, while a warm, dark bass will disappear through a thin speaker. For backyard BBQs, you're typically looking at 100–300W of power; anything less won't cut through a full band outdoors. Match the bass's output level and impedance characteristics to your amp's input—this prevents tone coloration and feedback issues.
Price-to-Playability Sweet Spot
You don't need a $3,000 bass for summer gigs, but cheap construction creates frustrating setup issues and dead spots. The $400–$800 range typically offers solid hardware, decent pickups, and playable frets without the diminishing returns of boutique pricing. Spending a little extra on used or previous-year models from reputable brands (Fender, Ibanez, Yamaha) often nets you better value than a new budget instrument. Consider your long-term use—if this bass becomes your go-to for sessions, investing in one that holds tuning and stays intonated is worth the extra hundred bucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bass guitar for beginners playing outdoor gigs?
Stick with a Fender Precision or Jazz bass clone from a solid brand like Squier or Ibanez; they're forgiving, sound professional, and hold their value. The key is getting a setup done by a tech before your first gig—a $50 setup transforms a budget bass's playability and tone significantly.
Should I buy a 4-string or 5-string for backyard BBQ sessions?
Four-string is your friend for informal jam settings—it keeps things simple, and most bassists find four-strings cut through a mix better outdoors because the tone sits higher. Save the extended range for studio work or larger venues; at a backyard BBQ, you want to focus on pocket and feel, not exploring the low B.
Do I need active or passive electronics?
Active electronics (with onboard preamps) give you more EQ flexibility and hotter output, which helps you stay audible outdoors without cranking your amp's gain. Passive basses are simpler, warmer-sounding, and require less maintenance, but active is genuinely more practical for gigs where you're adapting to unknown PA systems and amp rigs.
What body wood sounds best for bass?
Alder and ash are industry standards for good reason—alder is punchy and balanced, while ash is brighter and cuts through louder environments. For backyard gigs specifically, ash or a mahogany/ash combo will give you articulation that stands out in a live mix without sounding thin.
How important is the neck-through versus bolt-on construction?
Bolt-on necks are more practical for outdoor gigging because they're easier to adjust if humidity affects playability, and they're cheaper to repair. Neck-through basses have slightly better resonance, but the difference is negligible in a loud backyard setting—save that for recording studios.
Can I use a cheap bass for serious sessions?
A $200 bass with a decent setup can absolutely work, but cheap hardware and frets typically drift in outdoor heat and humidity, killing your vibe mid-set. If you're gigging regularly, invest at least $400–$500; your bandmates and your back will thank you by summer's end.
What should I look for in a bass pickup for outdoor tone?
For backyard gigs, you want pickups with clear treble definition and controlled low-end—this cuts through wind noise and ambient outdoor sound. Humbucker-style or split-coil pickups generally handle this better than single-coils, and slightly hotter output helps you stay in the mix without aggressive EQ boosts that can sound unnatural.
Conclusion
Summer backyard BBQs are where bass shines—you need an instrument that's comfortable to play for hours, cuts through live mix chaos, and handles outdoor conditions without falling apart. A solid mid-range bass (Fender Precision, Ibanez SR, or Yamaha TRBX) paired with proper setup and a decent amp will outperform a boutique instrument played through bad gear every time.
Buy the bass that feels right in your hands and sounds tight through an amp you actually own, then spend the money you saved on a professional setup and a quality hard case. That's the move.
