Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $457

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Höfner Ignition PRO Violin Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Reviving the spirit of the '60s with a modern twist, the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass is a classic icon reimagined for today's musicians. This electric bass guitar embodies the timeless elegance of the original Hofner 500/1 model, yet it steps into the contemporary era with thoughtful enhancements. With its all-hollow body construction, it delivers the characteristically warm, woody resonance Hofner is celebrated for, bringing depth and richness to your sound. The spruce top and flamed maple back and sides not only provide stunning visual allure but also contribute to a balanced tonal palette with resonant lows and articulate highs.

The short 30" scale offers a comfortable playing experience, making intricate fingerwork and rapid transitions feel effortless. Designed for those who crave both vintage charm and modern functionality, this bass is equipped with upgraded hardware, including a refined tailpiece and control panel derived from Hofner's premium Contemporary series. Chrome-plated hardware ensures longevity while adding a polished, sophisticated touch.

Whether you're in the studio laying down tracks or performing live, the lightweight nature of this instrument guarantees comfort and ease of play, allowing you to focus on what matters most—creating music that resonates. Embrace the legacy of Hofner with a bass that seamlessly blends nostalgic appeal with the demands of today’s musicians.

Key Features:

  • All-hollow body construction for warm, woody tone
  • Spruce top with flamed maple back and sides
  • 30" short scale for comfortable playability
  • Upgraded tailpiece, pickguard, and control panel
  • Chrome-plated hardware for durability and sleek aesthetics

Product specs

Brand Hofner
Model Ignition PRO Violin Bass
Year 2021 - 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, Green, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Jatoba
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of music is the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass best suited for?

The Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass is ideal for genres like rock, pop, and jazz, offering a warm, vintage sound reminiscent of the classic 1960s Hofner bass tones.

How does the short scale length of the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass affect playability?

The 30-inch short scale length makes the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass more comfortable and easier to play, especially for those with smaller hands or players seeking a softer, more responsive feel.

What are the tonal characteristics of the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass?

The spruce top and flamed-maple body provide a rich, warm tone, while the all-hollow construction enhances resonance, delivering a classic vintage sound with deep, mellow bass notes.

Does the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass have active or passive pickups?

The Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass features passive pickups, which contribute to its authentic vintage tone and do not require a battery for operation.

Is the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, its lightweight design and short scale length make the Hofner Ignition PRO Violin Bass comfortable for beginners, while its versatile tone-shaping options cater to developing musicians.

Deadbeat Studios

Deadbeat Studios

Hofner Ignition Pro Edition Violin B-Bass - What Does it Sound Like?

Video thumbnail for Hofner Ignition Pro Edition Violin B-Bass - What Does it Sound Like? by Deadbeat Studios

Hofner Ignition Pro Edition Violin B-Bass - What Does it Sound Like?

Deadbeat Studios

Deadbeat Studios

Reviews

PROS

  • Extremely lightweight, reducing strain during long playing sessions

  • Delivers the iconic woodsy Hofner low-end sound

  • Perfect for Beatles fans seeking an authentic look and feel

  • Affordable alternative to higher-end Hofner models

  • Suitable for players with back issues due to its hollow-body design

  • Ideal for studio recording with its phenomenal sound

  • Attractive finish options, like transparent green, are available

  • Slim neck and easy action enhance playability

CONS

  • Requires setup adjustments like bridge shifting and string replacement

  • Some quality control issues, such as errant stain and internal rattling

  • Entry-level components like the rosewood bridge may need modifications

  • Not recommended for touring due to its delicate build

  • Intonation can be tedious and requires careful adjustment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Höfner Ignition PRO Violin Bass.

Setup and maintenance

  • Flatwound strings are essential to enhance tone, as the stock roundwound strings can sound subpar.

    Source
  • The floating bridge can be difficult to intonate; marking its position before string changes is recommended.

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  • A thorough setup from a luthier is typically required from the factory, addressing less than stellar quality control issues.

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Features and functionality

  • The bass predominantly offers a dull, percussive thump, ideal for 60's rock and reggae.

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Build quality

  • The stock electronics in the switchplate may be unreliable and could benefit from a handwired replacement.

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  • The Hofner Ignition PRO is a full hollow-body, emphasizing a woody tone, contrasting with the contemporary model's semi-hollow build for increased sustain.

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  • The input jack has been reported to need replacement multiple times due to the use of cheap hardware components.

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User experience

  • The narrow neck and close string spacing might challenge fingerstyle players but are suitable for pick use.

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  • Some users feel the Ignition bass feels toy-like, despite its pleasing sound, due to its lightweight construction.

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  • Players accustomed to double cutaway designs may find the Ignition's body digs into their ribs, affecting comfort during play.

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  • The Ignition is prone to significant neck dive, causing strain in the fretting hand, especially noticeable in extended sessions.

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Use cases and applications

  • Despite its perceived one-trick tone, the Hofner Ignition excels in specific genres like reggae and classic rock.

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  • The lightweight design makes it ideal for long playing sessions, offering comfort despite its fragility.

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Comparisons

  • When considering budget options, the Epiphone clone is often preferred for its better reputation in the lower price range.

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Value and pricing

  • Owners suggest the German-made Hofner models for durability if a longer-lasting instrument is a priority, despite higher costs.

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