Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $379

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of iconic sound with the Hofner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass guitar. Renowned for its distinctive violin shape and historical significance, this bass is a nod to the legendary instruments used by musicians who defined an era. Perfectly blending vintage aesthetics with modern playability, the Hofner Ignition Cavern is a statement piece for any bassist seeking that classic vibe.

Crafted with a spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, this bass not only looks stunning but delivers a warm, resonant tone that is unmistakably Hofner. The short scale length of 30 inches offers a comfortable playing experience, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals. The maple one-piece neck and jatoba fretboard provide a smooth feel and easy navigation across the 22 frets.

Equipped with dual Höfner Ignition Staple pickups, the 500/1 Ignition Cavern captures the quintessential bass sound that has graced countless records. Whether you're laying down a groovy bassline or exploring melodic passages, the control panel with original Tea Cup potentiometer knobs allows you to tailor your sound with precision.

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition Cavern is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history that invites you to explore new sonic landscapes while paying homage to the past.

Key Features:

  • Spruce top with flamed maple back and sides
  • Maple one-piece neck
  • Jatoba fretboard
  • Scale: 760 mm (30")
  • Nut width: 42mm
  • 22 frets
  • Pickups: 2x Höfner Ignition Staple
  • Original Tea Cup potentiometer knobs on the control panel
  • Individual machine heads with pearloid plastic buttons

Product specs

Available since April 2020
Colour Sunburst
Top Maple
Back and Sides Maple
Neck Maple
Fretboard Jatoba
Frets 22
Scale Shortscale
Pickup System HH
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No
Soundboard Maple
Body Maple
Pickups HH
Neck Width 42,0 mm
Elektronic Passive
Mechanics Standard

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass use?

The Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass is equipped with HH pickups, which offer a classic, warm tone suitable for various music styles, especially those seeking a vintage sound.

Is the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass a short-scale instrument?

Yes, the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass features a short-scale design, making it easier to play for those with smaller hands and offering a distinct, punchy tonal character.

What materials are used in the construction of the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass?

The Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass is constructed with a maple top, back, sides, and neck, and features a jatoba fretboard, contributing to its rich, resonant sound.

Does the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass come with a case or gigbag?

No, the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass does not include a case or gigbag, so you may want to purchase one separately for protection during transport.

What is the neck width of the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass?

The neck width of the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass is 42.0 mm, providing a comfortable playing experience for bassists who prefer a narrower neck.

Reviews

PROS

  • Extremely light, making it ideal for long performances

  • Comfortable fretboard and easy to play, especially with short scale

  • Delivers a warm, deep, and organic sound

  • Attractive design, often receiving compliments for appearance

  • Cuts nicely through the mix without being overpowering

  • Offers the classic Höfner sound at an affordable price

  • Versatile sound, capable of resembling a double-bass with the right setup

  • Great historical piece and conversation starter

CONS

  • Initial string and machine head quality may feel flimsy

  • Requires setup adjustments to reduce buzzing, especially on the E string

  • Shape and balance might take some getting used to

  • A string may need replacement soon after purchase

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern.

Features and functionality

  • The Cavern model's bridge pickup is closer to the neck, enhancing midrange presence useful in live settings with challenging acoustics.

    Source
  • The HI-BB model's bridge pickup allows for more articulate and modern tones when combined with the neck pickup, offering greater versatility.

    Source
  • Many users prefer to run these basses with both pickups fully engaged, as soloing pickups tends to result in a thinner sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The smaller body of the Höfner 500/1 can be challenging to play while seated, particularly for new players.

    Source
  • Both Cavern and HI-BB models can achieve "mud city" tones with neck pickup, appealing to enthusiasts of bass-heavy styles.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Contemporary version is considered a higher quality step up from the Ignition, offering a more serious semi-hollow bass experience without reaching the high price bracket.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Even the more affordable Ignition model is noted to deliver a quality instrument, making it a recommended choice over imitations like the Epiphone Viola.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners emphasize that the Contemporary series is worth the extra investment if budget allows, providing a balance between quality and cost that is significant before higher-tier models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Hofner Ignition Cavern Violin Bass

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition Cavern Violin Bass offers a charming throwback to the 1960s with its vintage character and lightweight design. This entry-level model resonates with character, offering a rich, full-bodied sound that stands out. The easy playability and affordable price make it an attractive option for those seeking a classic vibe without breaking the bank. However, its distinct style may not appeal to everyone, limiting its audience to enthusiasts or Beatles tribute band members. Overall, the review praises its value and playability, though it acknowledges its niche appeal.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
deejay_de_geus

Great Bass guitar

love this bass guitar. You have the real hofner sound for a little price

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Flea uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Flea

Bassist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via Photo

Flea can be seen with a Höfner Violin Bass (right side)

See how Mike Dirnt uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Mike Dirnt

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

...
Verified via Bassplayer

" And I play a Höfner on one song, “Drama Queen,” which has really fat bass." Mike Dirnt word about Hoffner Viola Bass

See how Toro y Moi uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Toro y Moi

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see Chaz playing at 9:19

See how Brian Setzer uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Brian Setzer

Singer, Guitarist

The Brian Setzer Orchestra

...
Verified via reverb.com
Color/Finish: Tobacco Burst Year: 2000s

Reverb lists this Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern as a bass owned by Brian Setzer, and includes the quote:

“I bet you didn’t know I used to be in a Beatles tribute band (just-kidding!).” - BS

See how Bob Daisley uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Bob Daisley

Bassist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Bobdaisley

Bob Daisley is shown with his Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass on page 2 of the slideshow in the "Bob's Guitars" section of his official website. This model is a variation of the standard violin bass.

See how Bas van Wageningen uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Bas van Wageningen

Bassist

Di-rect

...
Verified via YouTube

During the live performance of "Ricochet" at Evers Staat Op, Bas van Wageningen played the Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass, as seen in a video by 538 on YouTube.

See how Ariza uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Ariza

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

he can be seen using this in an instagram post

See how Brian Wheat uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern

Brian Wheat

Bassist

Tesla

...
Verified via YouTube

In a 2008 live performance of "Love Song" by Tesla, Brian Wheat is seen playing a Höfner 500/1 Ignition Cavern bass. Known for his admiration of The Beatles, Wheat often chooses this model for its classic sound during softer and acoustic performances.

Album Usage

The Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition Cavern has been featured on the following albums:

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) 500/1 Ignition Cavern, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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