Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $450

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Ignition (duplicate 2)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* 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

Unleash your inner Beatle with the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass, a nod to the legendary instrument that shaped the sound of the '60s. This electric bass is a true icon in the world of musical instruments, boasting a hollowbody construction that delivers a rich, resonant tone with a vintage charm. The bass's 30" short scale ensures comfortable playability, especially for those with smaller hands or a preference for shorter-scale instruments. Despite its compact size, the Hofner Ignition doesn't skimp on sound, offering a full-bodied, warm tone reminiscent of an upright bass.

Aesthetically, the Hofner 500/1 Ignition is a throwback to a bygone era. It features the classic violin-shaped body and vintage-inspired teacup knobs, making it a visual treat as well as an auditory one. This bass is equipped with a set neck, dot inlays, and a trapeze tailpiece, all contributing to its timeless appeal. Whether you're jamming in your garage or taking the stage, this bass is designed to captivate both audience and performer alike. Its lightweight build ensures you can play for hours without fatigue, making it a perfect companion for extended sessions.

For musicians seeking a balance between retro aesthetics and modern playability, the Hofner 500/1 Ignition is an ideal choice. Its unique blend of style, sound, and comfort makes it a standout in any collection.

Key Features:

  • Hollowbody construction for a rich, resonant sound
  • 30" short scale for comfortable playability
  • Iconic violin-shaped body with vintage teacup knobs
  • Lightweight design for extended play sessions
  • Set neck with dot inlays and trapeze tailpiece for classic appeal

FAQs

What is the scale length of the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass?

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass features a short 30-inch scale length, making it easier to play for musicians with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact instrument.

Is the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass fully hollow?

Yes, the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass is a fully hollowbody instrument, contributing to its warm, resonant sound and lightweight feel.

What type of music is the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass suitable for?

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass is well-suited for genres like rock, pop, and jazz, thanks to its iconic tone that was made famous during the British Invasion era.

Does the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass have any unique design features?

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass is known for its classic violin-shaped body and distinctive teacup knobs, which add to its vintage aesthetic and charm.

What kind of sound can I expect from the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass?

You can expect a warm, resonant sound with solid lows and smooth highs from the Hofner 500/1 Ignition bass, making it ideal for producing classic, vintage tones.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Hofner Ignition Series Violin Bass - The Beatles Sound!

Video thumbnail for Hofner Ignition Series Violin Bass - The Beatles Sound! by PMTVUK

Hofner Ignition Series Violin Bass - The Beatles Sound!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Hofner Ignition Series Violin Bass Guitar by Dave Flynn

Hofner Ignition Series Violin Bass Guitar

Dave Flynn

Dave Flynn

Video thumbnail for Hofner's Ignition Violin Bass by James Wang

Hofner's Ignition Violin Bass

James Wang

James Wang

Video thumbnail for Hofner Ignition Violin Bass, Sunburst by Gear4music Guitars

Hofner Ignition Violin Bass, Sunburst

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique "woody" tone ideal for Beatles covers

  • Lightweight, comfortable, and easy to play

  • Short scale and narrow fretboard suit small hands

  • Distinctive, eye-catching color options

  • Provides a vintage, retro look

  • Pickups deliver a "hot" output for dynamic sound

  • Hollow body adds a rich, boomy resonance

  • Easy playability makes it great for beginners

  • Quick and simple setup out of the box

  • Ideal for fast, busy bass lines

CONS

  • Lacks tonal variety compared to other basses

  • Control panel may feel plain or lackluster

  • May require upgrades for optimal performance

  • Potential fret buzz issues out of the box

  • Not suitable for metal or heavy genres

  • Some hardware may feel cheap or flimsy

Critic Reviews

Ultimate Hofner Ignition Bass Review 2025 (Paul McCartney's Secret Weapon in The Beatles!) - The Bold Musician

theboldmusician.com

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition Bass is a hidden gem, boasting exceptional playability and a unique, thumpy tone reminiscent of McCartney's iconic sound. Its light weight makes it comfortable for long sessions, and its versatility with effects pedals means it transcends genres, from classic rock to metal. While it’s a bit top-heavy and the smaller neck may require adjustment, its affordability and ease of use make it a fantastic option, even for guitarists transitioning to bass. Overall, it offers incredible value and an inspiring playing experience, with the caveat of minor balance adjustments needed.

positive

Höfner Ignition Bass Review - Beginner Guitar HQ

beginnerguitarhq.com

The Hofner 500/1 Ignition Violin Bass, while affordable and boasting iconic vintage aesthetics reminiscent of McCartney’s classic, falls short in hardware quality, making it less suited for live gigs. Its lightweight, semi-hollow design offers a unique, warm tone perfect for genres like jazz and pop, but its entry-level build and Chinese craftsmanship mean upgrades might be necessary for serious players. Ideal for beginners or vintage enthusiasts on a budget, it delivers a distinct sound but doesn’t rival higher-end models in durability. A nostalgic choice for Beatles fans, yet not without its limitations.

www.guitarfella.com | 526: Invalid SSL certificate

guitarfella.com

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
vince19drums

Not bad for a copy!

The sound is alright, but some hardware is cheap and feels cheap.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Höfner Electric Basses

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    xrafax
    xrafax

    Gear IQ 86