Pricing and availability

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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

What is the scale length of the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass Cavern Spec?

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.

What materials are used in the construction of the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass?

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.

Does the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass come with a case or bag?

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.

What type of pickups does the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass use?

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.

Is the Höfner HCT 500/1 Violin Bass suitable for beginners?

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

  • Captures classic Paul McCartney tone with pickups near the neck

  • Genuine German-made pickups provide premium sound quality

  • Lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended playing

  • Strung with flat wound strings for iconic Beatles thump

  • Versatile sound options with roundwound string compatibility

  • Short scale neck allows for quick, fast passage playing

  • Immaculate finish closely resembles high-end German models

  • Offers great value while maintaining distinct sound and style

  • Unique blank truss rod cover enhances visual appeal

CONS

  • Narrow neck may feel cramped for players used to long scale basses

  • Bridge string seats require adjustment for proper string fit

  • Finishes may not be as refined as premium German models

  • 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

  • The pickup configuration post-'62 is preferred for usability, with the "Rhythm" and "Bass On" settings producing the best McCartney-style sound.

    Source
  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Some owners find the use of nails to hold the pickguard surprising, indicating areas where build quality could be improved.

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  • The HCT version has more stable neck construction and better-quality tuners compared to the ignition, which features less durable plastic tuners.

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User experience

  • 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

  • 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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Use cases and applications

  • Violin basses, like the Höfner Cavern, can be harder to play sitting down due to their smaller body size, impacting practice and performance comfort.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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digital_steve

I'm in LOVE LOVE LOVE !!!

You have to play it to love it... I love mine...

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