Hofner Bass Guitar

A Hofner bass guitar is a great addition to any music group. Walter Hofner first had the idea of making a semi-acoustic bass guitar back in 1956. His idea was soon created in reality, with the violin shaped Beatle style bass guitars being just one of his revolutionary designs. Hofner also produced acoustic electric bass guitars of a more classic look.

The original Hofner bass guitar is now a collectors item. The originals were made in the early '60's and looked like the one played by Paul McCartney. Of course, they can be purchased in a left-handed version like his was, or they can be found in the more standard right-handed style.

A Hofner bass is said to create a woody, smooth sound that is reminiscent of an orchestral double bass, or bass violin. Since the original Hofners are in great demand, but short supply, the company has begun to reissue them. The violin shaped basses are available in several different models, which range in price from around $2000 to $4000.

The Hofner bass guitar known as the 500/2 Club Bass Violin is not shaped in the Beetle styled violin shape, but more closely resembles a standard bass guitar. The top is made of select German spruce, with the rest made of flamed maple. The neck is of maple/beech/maple. It has an ebony bridge, and the saddles are movable. The trapeze tailpiece is made of brass. It is a replica of a model made originally in 1965.

If you get a chance to purchase an original vintage Hofner bass guitar or guitar, the number of the model will indicate how fancy the instrument was. The higher the number, the better the quality. The numbers in the '50s ranged from 449 to 470. Smaller and thinner guitars were the rule as the '60s progressed.

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