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Description

Step into the world of iconic sound with the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern bass guitar, a nod to a legendary era of music history. Crafted to replicate the original 1961 model that once graced the hands of Paul McCartney during the early days of The Beatles, this bass is more than just an instrument—it's a piece of musical legacy. Its unique violin-shaped body and warm, woody tones are perfect for musicians seeking both style and substance.

The authentic vintage design not only delivers a classic aesthetic but also ensures a comfortable playing experience, thanks to its lightweight build. The short scale length offers a distinctively rich and punchy tone, characteristic of those early rock and roll days, making it a favorite among bassists who crave that retro vibe. With its dual staple pickups, the 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern provides a versatile sound palette, from deep, mellow lows to clear, bright highs.

Whether you're a seasoned musician or a vintage guitar enthusiast, the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern bass is an instrument that promises not only to inspire but also to stand the test of time. Its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to historical accuracy ensure that you're not just playing a bass—you're continuing a musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Iconic violin-shaped body reminiscent of the 1961 original
  • Lightweight construction for ease of play
  • Short scale length for a unique tonal character
  • Dual staple pickups for versatile sound options
  • Meticulously crafted for historical accuracy and vintage appeal

Product specs

Brand Hofner
Model 500/1 Vintage '61 Cavern Bass
Finish Sunburst
Year 2003 - 2019
Made In Germany
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Violin
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of music is the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass best suited for?

The Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass is renowned for its warm, vintage tone, making it ideal for genres like rock, pop, and blues. Its distinctive sound is famously associated with the early work of The Beatles.

What is the neck profile of the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass like?

The Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass features a slim neck profile, which offers comfortable playability, especially for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a faster playing experience.

Does the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass use active or passive pickups?

The Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass is equipped with passive pickups, providing a classic, warm tone without the need for a battery-powered preamp.

Is the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass suitable for beginner bass players?

While the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass is a high-quality instrument, its unique body shape and historical significance might be better appreciated by more experienced players. However, its lightweight design can be advantageous for beginners seeking comfort.

What makes the Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass unique compared to other bass guitars?

The Höfner 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern Bass is distinguished by its violin-shaped body, sunburst finish, and historical connection to Paul McCartney. Its unique tone and aesthetic make it a standout choice for collectors and performers alike.

Alberto Rigoni

Alberto Rigoni

Hofner Violin Bass 500/1 61 "Cavern" review

Video thumbnail for Hofner Violin Bass 500/1 61 "Cavern" review by Alberto Rigoni

Hofner Violin Bass 500/1 61 "Cavern" review

Alberto Rigoni

Alberto Rigoni

Reviews

PROS

  • Superb action and tones enhance musical inspiration

  • Thicker neck offers deeper acoustic tones and midrange punch

  • Usable treble/bridge pickup provides unique tones not found in later models

  • Flat back design contributes to distinctive sound

  • Teacup knobs have an ergonomic size and shape

  • Modeled after the '62 bass played by Paul McCartney

CONS

  • Heavier than other 500/1 models due to different bracing

  • Neck is thicker, which may not suit everyone

  • Case lacks matching patina for aesthetic consistency

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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paulsmithiii

Cavernous Sound

I indulged myself and ordered this bookend to my '64 style Hofner. The bracing is different which makes it a bit heavier than the 500/1 but not in a bad way - just different. I believe that has to have some influence on the tone as well but it's hard to tell when you're just playing in your home studio. Mine came with the teacup knobs as well. I love their size and shape and the neck is perfect for my hand. This Hofner is modeled after the '62 bass Paul McCartney played at the Cavern Club in Liverpool. Paul continued to switch back and forth between the two iconic guitars in the early Beatle years. Later he allowed Fender (I believe) to modify it some with new wiring and larger pickup borders to add strength. Paul can be seen playing it on the video of Revolution and a few times in the film "Let It Be". It's seen with a piece of foam inserted under the strings just above the bridge. I believe he was trying to get a punchier sound from it - some believe he was trying solve a buzzing problem. The guitar was stolen in 1972 and was finally recovered and given back to Paul who has it refurbished. He recently played it live again for the first time in over 50 years on his "Got Back" tour.

Artist usage

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See how Ross MacDonald uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern

Ross MacDonald

Bassist

The 1975

...
Verified via YouTube

Ross uses the Hofner bass for BFIAFL songs like "Part of the Band", "The 1975", "I Like America & America Likes Me", "All I Need To Hear", "When We Are Together"

See how Gus Unger-Hamilton uses Hofner (Höfner) 500/1 Violin '61 Cavern

Gus Unger-Hamilton

Keyboardist

Alt-J

...
Verified via Photo

Also on the last Alt-J gig in Warsaw in 2023 he used this '61 Reissue Cavern Viola Hofner , which has very close placed two pickups and white knobs . He used it on two songs during the live show .

Genre Usage

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