Höfner Contemporary Series HCT500/1 – Violin Bass (Excellent Condition)
The Höfner Contemporary Series HCT500/1 is a modern incarnation of one of the most iconic electric bass designs ever made. Drawing directly from the legendary 500/1 violin bass, the Contemporary Series combines the unmistakable Höfner look and tone with updated construction for improved stability, sustain, and everyday reliability. [hofner.com], [bassdirect.co.uk]
Semi‑Hollow Violin Bass Design: Features a semi‑hollow body with a spruce centre block, delivering enhanced sustain while preserving the warm, woody resonance that defines the classic Höfner sound. [hofner.com]
Classic Tonewoods: Constructed with a spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, faithfully recreating the materials and tonal character of the original violin bass design. [thomannmusic.com], [bassdirect.co.uk]
Short‑Scale Neck: The 30" short‑scale maple and beech neck offers a comfortable, easy‑playing feel with reduced string tension—ideal for long sessions and expressive playing styles. [thomannmusic.com]
Höfner Staple Pickups: Equipped with two authentic Höfner Staple humbuckers, producing the instantly recognisable deep, rounded bass tones made famous on countless classic recordings. [hofner.com], [musicstore.com]
Traditional Control Layout: Features the classic Höfner control panel with dual volume controls, pickup on/off switches, and rhythm/solo switch for intuitive tone shaping. [musicstore.com]
Lightweight & Comfortable: The compact violin body and short scale make the HCT500/1 one of the lightest and most ergonomic bass guitars available in its class. [sweetwater.com]
Condition
This Höfner HCT500/1 is in excellent condition, showing only minimal signs of careful use. The finish is clean and well maintained, the neck and frets are in superb shape, and all electronics function perfectly. It plays smoothly throughout the register and is ready for studio or stage use.
The Höfner Contemporary Series HCT500/1 is an outstanding choice for players seeking authentic vintage bass tone with modern reliability—ideal for classic rock, pop, jazz, and roots‑based music where character and warmth are key.