Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $689
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Step into a world of timeless sound with the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 from the Contemporary Series. This electric bass, inspired by the legendary model that captured the hearts of musicians in the '60s, is crafted for today's discerning player. With a semi-hollowbody design and a spruce top paired with flame maple back and sides, it offers a rich, resonant tone that's both warm and articulate. The 3-piece maple and beech neck ensures stability and sustain, making it a joy to play across any genre.
Equipped with Hofner's renowned Staple humbuckers, this bass guitar delivers that classic, woody tone that's synonymous with Hofner's legacy. The tone controls are designed in the traditional 500/1 style, allowing you to shape your sound with precision. Whether you're channeling the spirit of classic rock or exploring new sonic landscapes, the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 is your perfect companion.
Its iconic look and feel are matched by its exceptional playability, making it a standout choice for both stage and studio. Embrace the legacy and craftsmanship of Hofner, a name that has been synonymous with quality since 1887, and let this bass inspire your musical journey.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody electric bass with classic Hofner style
- Spruce top with flame maple back and sides for acoustic resonance
- 3-piece maple/beech neck for enhanced sustain
- Hofner Staple humbuckers for warm, woody tone
- Traditional 500/1 style tone controls for versatile sound shaping
- Includes a hardshell case for protection and portability
Product specs
| Brand | Hofner |
| Model | Contemporary Series Violin Bass, Contemporary Series Violin Bass with Jatoba Fretboard |
| Finish | Antique Brown Sunburst, Black |
| Year | 2006 - 2025 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | 4-String Basses, Short Scale Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Violin |
| Color Family | Black, Brown |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Jatoba, Rosewood |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque, Plain |
FAQs
-
What is the neck profile like on the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1?
-
The Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 features a slim neck profile, which is ideal for players who prefer fast and smooth playability. This makes it comfortable for both beginners and experienced bassists.
-
What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1?
-
The Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 is equipped with passive humbucking pickups that produce warm, vintage tones reminiscent of the iconic '60s sound. This makes it suitable for rock, pop, and blues genres.
-
Is the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 suitable for beginners?
-
Yes, the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 is well-suited for beginners due to its short scale length and lightweight design, which make it easier to handle and play.
-
What is the body material of the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1?
-
The body of the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 is made from maple, contributing to its bright and resonant sound characteristics.
-
Does the Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 come with a case?
-
The Hofner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 typically does not come with a case, so it is advisable to purchase a suitable case separately for protection during transport and storage.
Reviews
PROS
-
German AlNiCo pickups provide superior sound quality and reduced feedback
-
Lightweight design makes it comfortable for long playing sessions
-
Offers a wide range of tones suitable for various styles
-
Short scale is easy to play and ideal for replicating classic sounds
-
High-quality construction with superb fit and finish
-
Center block design minimizes feedback at high volumes
-
Comparable sound and quality to German-made counterparts
-
Aesthetic appeal with some unique modern updates
CONS
-
Neck is thicker compared to older models, might feel "clubby"
-
Not the best low-end response for die-hard bass players
-
New aesthetic changes may not appeal to classic Hofner fans
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hofner (Höfner) Contemporary Series Violin Bass.
Features and functionality
-
The strap design allows it to loop under the fretboard, mimicking McCartney's style, but can risk finish damage from metal clips.
Source -
The "Rhythm" and "Bass On" switch configuration is favored for achieving the classic McCartney tone, particularly effective for bass-heavy songs.
Source -
The short scale is highly appreciated for ease of play, especially for those with smaller hands.
Source -
The HCT 500/1 has a center block, providing more sustain and a slightly "modern" tone compared to full-hollow versions.
Source -
The electronics in the HCT 500/1 are identical to those in the German-made versions, contributing to its authentic sound profile.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
LaBella Deep Talkin Bass strings are recommended for optimal performance, potentially requiring nut adjustments due to increased thickness.
Source
Build quality
Comparisons
-
The 1961 pickup placement, with both pickups near the neck, provides a bass-heavy tone but may feel cumbersome to those used to post-1962 models.
Source -
The HCT is approximately 6.5 pounds, significantly lighter than solid body basses like the Squier Paranormal Jazz '54, which weighs about 9.6 pounds.
Source -
Owners note the HCT 500/1 offers better workmanship and sound compared to the Epiphone Viola bass, though both share similar ergonomic drawbacks.
Source
User experience
-
Owners of the HCT report it delivers a powerful bass sound, exceeding expectations, and contrasting sharply with cheaper copies like the Tanglewood.
Source -
Some users find the Hofner control layout initially confusing, but it becomes intuitive with use, adding to the overall charm of the instrument.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Despite the added weight from the sustain block, the HCT retains a Hofner tonal character, making it worth the investment over the Ignition model.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
This bass guitar was sold by Frank Iero on his official Reverb.com shop. He used it during his stint with the Patience.
In the video you can see Rennie Sparks playing a Hofner H500/1-CT Contemporary Series. It is not an Epiphone Viola Bass or a Hofner Ignion B-Bass because it ist to thick to be one of those.
This picture shows Potatoi playing a Hoffner Violin Bass. John Cha's specific model of the Hofner is a CT HCT-500/1 Contemporary series, a much cheaper but still loyal to the original Hofner 500/1. It is still unknown when John acquired this bass, but in his Potatoi YouTube channel, his vlogs shows the Hofner as still being part of his bass collection.
Simon Carcamo S is confirmed to use the Höfner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1, as evidenced by an image shared on their Instagram. This bass model is famously associated with Paul McCartney of The Beatles.
Colin Acchione is seen using a Höfner Violin Bass CT HCT-500/1 from the Contemporary Series during a live set, as evidenced by the source image.
Jim Noir mentions using the Höfner bass on his SoundBetter page.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Hofner (Höfner) Contemporary Series Violin Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
-s.webp?v=1783176995)
-s.webp?v=1783250001)
Community setups
Show yours
More Höfner Electric Basses
$349.00 - $499.99
in Electric Basses Rank
$3,299.99 - $4,182.76
in Electric Basses Rank
$777.00 - $849.99
in Electric Basses Rank
$2,627.14 - $3,299.99
-m.webp?v=1782900019)
$2,111.00
$649.00 - $849.99
$354.25 - $388.00
$349.95 - $549.99
$2,899.00 - $11,165.33
$2,899.00 - $3,899.99
$2,627.14 - $3,490.00
$2,150.00
$349.95 - $378.78
$677.29 - $695.00
$349.95 - $4,899.99
.jpg?v=1783244344)
$3,834.19
.jpg?v=1783265542)
.jpeg?v=1783265542)
$791.76 - $799.99
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
.webp)
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
lukedskellyGear IQ 63
-
