-
Call Us Toll Free888-528-9703
-
Local/International (+1)919-682-5552
The classic Hofner Violin Bass modeled on the 1963 specs.
This one is sold. Don't miss the next one. Some things never even make it to the site so stay up to date on our used collection.
We get in many oddities, rare and vintage products, most of which go fast. If you're on the hunt for something specific, something unique, or something priced right, let us notify you on our used collection before the items even hit the site.
Want to know if one lands?
Notify MeWant to discuss what's coming?
Condition: Used, Excellent
Exactly what you were hoping for. A proper German Hofner with all the thundering lows, comfortably carved thin but deep neck, and woody note definition you've come to expect from a real deal Hofner bass.
History
The 500/1 Violin Bass was first shown to the public at the Frankfurt Muiskmesse in 1956. It has been in continuous production ever since. Designed by Walter Höfner as an alternative to the upright double bass it fulfilled this aim and much more. It leapt to worldwide fame when Paul McCartney was seen playing one with The Beatles in the early 1960s. Today the 500/1 is offered in a number of models from the budget Ignition version through to the handmade German built re-issues and specials. Its short scale (30in) and ultra lightweight has found favour with many professionals over the years.
Unique Sound
The sound of a Violin Bass is unlike any other bass. When used with flatwound strings it produces a distinctive deep and penetrating thud not unlike an upright double bass. This sound can be used to emulate those pop sounds of the 1960s or slightly overdriven in a modern rock band to provide a deep driving bass. It is also commonly used today in studios for recording bass lines for dance music. It has also seen increasing use in reggae bands where a deep driving bass is always wanted. Despite being one of the smallest basses available it easily produces massive bass lines and is remarkably versatile.
Here at Sound Pure we hand-select used and vintage pieces of gear for our inventory. Our used selection always reflects the high standards of quality and craftsmanship that we expect from all of our manufacturers. We are a small team of dedicated experts, located in Durham, NC. We buy, trade, and consign instruments that we truly believe in. Because of this, we have developed a reputation of quality and trust with our customers, located all over the world. Our best customers are the ones that truly understand our personal touch and commitment to everything we sell, and range from hobbyists and enthusiasts to some of the biggest names in the business. Our passion bridges the products we love with the real relationships we develop with our customer - whether they are a lifelong musician, or they are just getting started on their musical journey but care about value, quality, and being treated right.
We vigorously test everything we take in to ensure authenticity, functionality, and reliability. We are supported by one of the most well-respected luthiers in the Southeast, guaranteeing products that come in are thoroughly vetted, and that products that go out our in premium, performance- ready shape. We are so confident in our ability to provide the highest quality music equipment in the industry, we even invented our “Try Before You Buy” program where we can ship out a product before collecting actual payment.
Sound Pure's inventory is constantly changing, ever-evolving, with some items sold before reaching the website. Looking for something specific? Have questions about this product's condition or history? Want more photos, or to simply chat with an expert who's had his hands on this actual piece of gear? It is truly our pleasure to talk with our customers, please do contact us now.
Model: Hofner 500/1 Vintage '63
Serial: H05086
Year: 2007
Weight: 4.85 lbs
Color/Finish: Sunburst
Shape: Violin Bass
Wood Top: Spruce
Soundhole: None
Wood Back: Flame Maple
Wood Sides: Flame Maple
Binding Top: Black/White/Black
Binding Back: Black/White/Black
Binding Sides: White
Centerblock: None
Neck Wood: Flame Maple
Neck Construction: Two-Piece
Headstock Shape: Hofner Violin Bass
Logo & Artwork: Script
Neck Joint: Set Neck
Joint At: 16th Fret
Thickness Neck & Fingerboard @ 1st Fret: 21mm
Thickness Neck & Fingerboard @ 12th Fret: 24mm
Heel Cap: White Pearl
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Scale: 30"
Nut Width: 42mm
Width @ 12th Fret: 48mm
Inlays: Pearl Dots
Fingerboard Binding: None
Side Dots: None
Number of Frets: 22
Bridge Material: Ebony
Bridge Type: Hofner Fretted
Tuners: Strip Nickel
Tuner Buttons: Plastic
Tailpiece: Hofner Trapeze
Nut Material: Plastic
Pickguard: White Pearl
Neck Pickup: Hofner Staple
Bridge Pickup: Hofner Staple
Potentiometer Knobs: Gold Top
Electronics: Hofner Pearl Panel
Case: Hofner Hardshell