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Average Price: $715

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Hofner 173 is a classic solid body electric guitar that effortlessly captures the vintage charm of the 1960s with a modern twist. Known for its unique design and versatile sound, this guitar is a favorite among both collectors and active musicians seeking a distinctive tone. Its triple pickup configuration offers a range of tonal possibilities, from bright and cutting to warm and mellow, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.

The Hofner 173 is constructed with a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience. The guitar's body is crafted from solid wood, ensuring durability and a rich resonance. This model features a 22-fret neck, giving players ample room for expressive solos and chord work. The vintage-style tuning machines offer reliable stability, keeping your tuning intact even during intense performances.

For musicians looking to stand out, the Hofner 173 delivers both in sound and appearance, maintaining a balance between retro aesthetics and reliable performance. Its distinctive sound and iconic design make it a valuable addition to any guitarist's collection, whether you're on stage or in the studio.

Key Features:

  • Solid wood body for enhanced resonance
  • Maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • 22-fret neck for extended playability
  • Triple pickup configuration for versatile tonal range
  • Vintage-style tuning machines for stable tuning
  • Classic 1960s-inspired design

Product specs

Brand Hofner
Model Galaxie 173
Finish Shaded Wood (Sunburst), White Vinyl Top / Black Back
Year 1967 - 1976
Made In Germany
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Brown, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HHH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What is the pickup configuration of the Höfner 173 and how does it affect the sound?

The Höfner 173 features an HHH pickup configuration, which means it has three humbucking pickups. This setup provides a wide range of tonal options, offering rich, full-bodied sounds suitable for various music genres, from rock to jazz.

Is the Höfner 173 suitable for beginners or more advanced players?

The Höfner 173 is a versatile guitar that can be appreciated by both beginners and advanced players. Its solid build and diverse tonal capabilities make it a reliable choice for those looking to explore different music styles.

What type of neck construction does the Höfner 173 have?

The Höfner 173 features a bolt-on neck construction, which is common in many electric guitars. This design allows for easier neck adjustments and replacements, contributing to the guitar's overall durability and playability.

How many frets does the Höfner 173 have and what is the fretboard material?

The Höfner 173 has 22 frets and a fretboard made of rosewood. This combination offers a smooth playing experience and contributes to the guitar's warm, resonant tone.

Does the Höfner 173 have a tremolo tailpiece, and what does it offer?

Yes, the Höfner 173 is equipped with a tremolo tailpiece, which allows players to modulate pitch by altering string tension. This feature is ideal for adding vibrato effects and enhancing the expressiveness of your playing.

Gavin Lazarus

Gavin Lazarus

Hofner 173: vintage guitar review

Video thumbnail for Hofner 173: vintage guitar review by Gavin Lazarus

Hofner 173: vintage guitar review

Gavin Lazarus

Gavin Lazarus

Video thumbnail for Hofner 173 Germany 1964 | Guitarbank by Guitarbank Moscow

Hofner 173 Germany 1964 | Guitarbank

Guitarbank Moscow

Guitarbank Moscow

Video thumbnail for 1960s Hofner 173 solidbody electric guitar by Jake Wildwood & Co

1960s Hofner 173 solidbody electric guitar

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

Video thumbnail for Hofner model 173 demo by _-_Michael_-_

Hofner model 173 demo

_-_Michael_-_

_-_Michael_-_

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hofner (Höfner) 173.

Setup and maintenance

  • Contact cleaner can be used to address scratchy electronics and may help unstick the tone control.

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  • Original parts can still be found, and obscure parts like the whammy bar may be sourced from specialized suppliers.

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Features and functionality

  • The 1963 Hofner 173 features a unique switch that adds to its vintage charm.

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  • The vinyl finish on the Hofner 173 offers a unique aesthetic that stands out from typical wood finishes, adding a retro charm to the instrument.

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  • The control setup prevents using both pickups simultaneously, likely due to a wiring issue or design flaw, where the bridge pickup output is significantly lower.

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  • The guitar exhibits a twangy, Jazzmaster-esque sound, potentially appealing to players seeking a 60's surf rock or jazz tone.

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  • Despite the confusion with the model, the Hofner 172 was mentioned, indicating potential model overlap or rebranding in different regions, complicating identification for owners.

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  • The Hofner 173 features H513 Blade pickups, known for their distinct 9K output, unlike later 6.6K versions, offering a unique tonal range.

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Comparisons

  • The wiring is likened to a Jaguar without the top horn section, suggesting similar tonal capabilities but with simpler controls.

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  • The headstock shape can be atypical compared to other Höfner models, suggesting possible prototype status or regional design variations.

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User experience

  • Owners report that the bass on switch may inadvertently disable the bridge pickup, which could confuse users unfamiliar with this feature.

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  • A user reported that the bass (neck) pickup alone can create a fat overdrive effect when switched, enhancing its appeal for specific tonal applications.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest replacing original capacitors with orange drop capacitors (10nF, 22nF, 15nF) due to the unavailability of the original 8nF version.

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Build quality

  • Some models feature individual tuners rather than the expected six-on-a-strip design, indicating potential variations or modifications over time.

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