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Average Price: $679
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$400
$1001+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Hofner (Höfner) HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.
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Description
The Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec is more than just an instrument—it's a piece of musical heritage reimagined for today's bassists. This semi-hollowbody masterpiece draws inspiration from the legendary sound of the 1960s, offering a lush, resonant tone that's perfect for both the studio and the stage. Its short scale of 770 mm makes it incredibly comfortable to play, especially for those who prefer a more compact feel.
Crafted with a spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, the HCT 500/1 not only looks stunning but also delivers a rich sound with excellent sustain, thanks to its internal sustain block. The three-piece maple/beech/maple neck is topped with a jatoba fingerboard, offering a smooth playing experience with 22 frets to explore.
Höfner's proprietary Cavern humbuckers capture every nuance of your performance, delivering a warm and vintage tone that can be tailored using the unique control panel. With two volume controls, on/off switches, and a rhythm/solo switch for a volume boost, this bass is as versatile as it is iconic. The nickel-plated hardware adds a touch of elegance, complementing the instrument's classic design.
Whether you're channeling the spirit of the British Invasion or carving out your own sonic path, the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec is the ideal companion for any bassist looking to make an impression.
Key Features:
- Semi-Hollowbody Cavern Contemporary Beatles Bass with sustain block
- Spruce top with flamed maple back and sides
- 3-piece maple/beech/maple neck
- Jatoba fingerboard with 22 frets
- Short scale of 770 mm
- Nut width: 43.40 mm
- Equipped with 2 Höfner Cavern humbuckers
- Control panel includes 2 volume controls (Tea Cups), 2 on/off switches, and rhythm/solo switch
- Nickel-plated hardware
Product specs
| Available since | June 2013 |
| Colour | Sunburst |
| Soundboard | Maple |
| Neck | Maple, Beech, Maple |
| Fretboard | Jatoba |
| Frets | 22 |
| Scale | Shortscale |
| Pickups | HH |
| Elektronic | Passive |
| Incl. Case | No |
| Incl. Bag | No |
| Body | Maple |
| Pickup System | HH |
FAQs
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What is the scale length of the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec?
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The Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec features a short scale length of 30 inches, making it comfortable and easy to play, especially for those with smaller hands or those seeking a more vintage feel.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass?
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This bass guitar is constructed with a maple soundboard and body, a neck made from maple, beech, and maple, and a jatoba fretboard, contributing to its distinct tone and classic appearance.
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Does the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass come with a case or bag?
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No, the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass does not include a case or bag, so you may want to purchase one separately to protect your instrument during transport.
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What type of pickups does the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass use?
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The Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass is equipped with HH pickups, providing a rich and full sound suitable for a variety of musical styles.
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Is the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass is suitable for beginners due to its short scale length and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and play.
Reviews
PROS
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Captures classic Paul McCartney tone with pickups near the neck
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Genuine German-made pickups provide premium sound quality
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Lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended playing
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Strung with flat wound strings for iconic Beatles thump
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Versatile sound options with roundwound string compatibility
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Short scale neck allows for quick, fast passage playing
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Immaculate finish closely resembles high-end German models
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Offers great value while maintaining distinct sound and style
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Unique blank truss rod cover enhances visual appeal
CONS
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Narrow neck may feel cramped for players used to long scale basses
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Bridge string seats require adjustment for proper string fit
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Finishes may not be as refined as premium German models
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Black knobs may not appeal to all; classic tea cup replacements suggested
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hofner (Höfner) HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec.
Features and functionality
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The pickup configuration post-'62 is preferred for usability, with the "Rhythm" and "Bass On" settings producing the best McCartney-style sound.
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The HCT's center block adds weight but enhances sound stability without losing the signature Hofner tone.
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The Cavern model's bridge pickup placement closer to the neck enhances midrange response, benefiting live performances in acoustically challenging venues.
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Mods and upgrades
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LaBella Deep Talkin Bass strings are recommended for optimal performance without requiring nut adjustments, enhancing the bass's thump.
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Setup and maintenance
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The unique strap setup loops under the fretboard, made possible by the neck joint configuration, but may risk damaging the finish with metal clips.
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Build quality
User experience
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Owners express delight in the instrument's unexpectedly rich low-end, especially given its lightweight construction.
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Owners transitioning from cheaper models find the HCT's sound quality superior, with unexpectedly deep bass tones that exceed expectations.
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Some players find the Cavern's neck pickup provides a "mud city" tone, which is desirable for certain musical applications, offering a warm, thick sound.
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Comparisons
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The HCT weighs around 6.5 pounds, making it significantly lighter than many solid body basses, such as the 9.6-pound Squier Paranormal Jazz '54.
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The Cavern's wider pickup spacing offers distinct tonal characteristics compared to the Hi-BB, with the Hi-BB providing more articulate tones from its bridge pickup.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Genre Usage
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