Höfner Guitars & Basses
Hofner Guitars & Basses Australia
Iconic Violin Bass | German Craftsmanship | Melbourne Showroom
Hofner represents legendary German instrument craftsmanship dating back to 1887. Founded by Karl Hofner in Schoenbach, Germany, Hofner builds iconic guitars and basses combining traditional European luthier techniques with timeless designs. The Hofner violin bass became immortalized by Paul McCartney with The Beatles, creating one of music history's most recognizable instruments. Today, Hofner continues producing exceptional hollow-body guitars, archtops, and the legendary violin bass maintaining German quality standards for over 135 years.
At Angkor Music Melbourne, we stock the complete Hofner range including the iconic violin bass, hollow-body guitars, and archtop models. Experience the lightweight comfort, vintage tone, and German craftsmanship that made Hofner instruments legendary. Visit our Altona showroom to test these historic instruments and discover why Hofner's combination of European tradition and iconic design continues inspiring musicians worldwide. Every Hofner instrument includes full Australian warranty coverage and represents genuine German manufacturing heritage.
Hofner Bass Guitars
500/1 Violin Bass - The Beatle Bass
The 500/1 Violin Bass represents one of music history's most iconic instruments. Made famous by Paul McCartney during The Beatles era, this distinctive bass features symmetrical violin-shaped body, hollow construction, and two pickups delivering warm, woody tone. The lightweight design and short 30-inch scale create comfortable playability. Available in vintage reissue and contemporary models, the 500/1 remains essential for Beatles enthusiasts, vintage bass collectors, and players wanting distinctive tone and aesthetics.
Ignition Series - Affordable Violin Bass
Ignition series brings the iconic violin bass within reach of more bassists. Manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications, Ignition basses deliver authentic 500/1 tone and aesthetics at accessible prices. These instruments maintain the distinctive look and sound that made Hofner famous while offering value for budget-conscious players, students, and Beatles tribute performers. Excellent entry point into Hofner ownership.
Contemporary Series Basses
Beyond the violin bass, Hofner produces contemporary bass models including Club Bass and Verythin designs. These semi-hollow and hollow-body basses deliver vintage tone with modern playability features. Perfect for players wanting Hofner quality and vintage character in more traditional bass shapes. Available in various configurations with different pickup arrangements and hardware options.
Hofner Guitars
Archtop Jazz Guitars
Hofner archtop guitars deliver classic jazz tone with German craftsmanship. Featuring carved tops, f-holes, and floating pickups, these guitars produce warm, acoustic resonance perfect for jazz, blues, and vintage styles. Various models from entry-level to professional carved-top instruments provide options across price points. Hofner archtops represent European luthier tradition applied to jazz guitar design.
Verythin & Club Guitars
Verythin and Club guitars feature shallow semi-hollow bodies combining electric guitar playability with hollow-body resonance. These guitars deliver vintage 1960s British Invasion tone with feedback resistance for amplified performance. Popular among indie, alternative, and vintage rock players wanting distinctive aesthetics and chimey, articulate tone. Lightweight construction suits extended playing sessions.
Why Choose Hofner?
Legendary Beatles Heritage: Hofner's association with Paul McCartney and The Beatles created music history's most recognizable bass guitar. When Paul chose the 500/1 violin bass in 1961, he established an iconic image that defined bass guitar aesthetics. Owning a Hofner violin bass connects you to this legendary heritage and the sound that shaped popular music. The Beatles connection ensures Hofner's place in music history forever.
German Craftsmanship Heritage: Hofner maintains traditional German luthier techniques developed over 135 years. Premium models are handcrafted in Germany with attention to detail and quality control reflecting European instrument-making traditions. This craftsmanship creates instruments with character, resonance, and build quality distinguishing them from mass-produced alternatives. Hofner represents authentic European instrument heritage.
Distinctive Vintage Tone: Hofner hollow-body construction delivers warm, woody tone with acoustic-like qualities unavailable from solid-body instruments. The distinctive voice suits vintage rock, British Invasion styles, jazz, and any music benefiting from organic, resonant character. This tone became integral to The Beatles sound and continues inspiring players seeking alternatives to modern solid-body tone.
Lightweight Comfort: Hollow construction creates remarkably lightweight instruments reducing shoulder strain during extended performances. The violin bass particularly excels for comfort with its compact size and minimal weight. This ergonomic advantage makes Hofner instruments favorites among touring musicians performing multiple sets. Comfort meets vintage tone and legendary aesthetics.
Paul McCartney & The 500/1 Bass
The Hamburg Years: Paul McCartney purchased his first Hofner 500/1 violin bass in 1961 at Steinway Music Store in Hamburg, Germany. The symmetrical shape suited Paul's left-handed playing, and the affordable price fit The Beatles' limited budget. This bass became Paul's primary instrument throughout The Beatles' most creative period, appearing on countless recordings and performances defining modern popular music.
The Beatles Sound: The 500/1's warm, round tone with slight midrange presence perfectly complemented The Beatles' arrangements. Its acoustic-like qualities blended beautifully with acoustic guitars while maintaining presence in rock contexts. Paul's melodic bass playing through the Hofner became fundamental to The Beatles' sound, influencing generations of bassists worldwide. The instrument and player created inseparable musical identity.
Continuing Legacy: Paul McCartney continues using Hofner basses throughout his solo career, maintaining the connection to his Beatles heritage. Modern bassists choose Hofner for both its historical significance and authentic vintage tone. The 500/1 transcended being merely an instrument to become a cultural icon representing an era that changed music forever.
Hofner Price Ranges
Ignition Series ($800-$1100): Affordable violin bass and guitar models manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications. These instruments deliver authentic Hofner aesthetics and tone at accessible prices. Perfect for students, Beatles tribute players, and musicians wanting iconic Hofner design on budget.
Contemporary Series ($1400-$2500): Mid-range Hofner instruments including improved violin bass models, Club guitars, and Verythin designs. Enhanced construction, better hardware, and improved electronics deliver professional performance. Suitable for gigging musicians and serious players wanting authentic Hofner quality.
German-Made Premium Series ($4500-$6000+): Handcrafted German instruments representing ultimate Hofner quality. These basses and guitars feature traditional construction methods, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. Built for collectors, professional touring musicians, and players demanding absolute finest quality and authentic German craftsmanship.
Why Buy Hofner from Angkor Music Melbourne?
Authorized Hofner Dealer - Genuine German and licensed instruments with full warranty
Violin Bass Specialists - Staff experienced with 500/1 setup and maintenance
Complete Range - Ignition through German-made premium models in stock
Professional Setup - Every instrument inspected and optimized before delivery
Try Before Buy - Experience the legendary violin bass and hollow-body guitars
Beatles Heritage Knowledge - Expert guidance on authentic McCartney tone and setup
Fast Australia Shipping - Secure packaging with climate control and insurance
Best Pricing - Competitive Hofner prices with full warranty support
Complete Your Hofner Setup
Optimize your Hofner bass with appropriate accessories. We stock flatwound bass strings delivering authentic vintage tone Paul McCartney used. Protect your investment with quality cases designed for violin bass and hollow-body shapes. Connect with premium cables maintaining signal quality from vintage-voiced instruments.
Achieve McCartney's tone through appropriate amplification. Explore bass amplifiers including vintage-voiced models from Ampeg and Fender. For guitars, consider British-voiced amplifiers from Vox and Marshall complementing Hofner's vintage character. Maintain your Hofner with premium care products suitable for hollow-body instruments and vintage finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Hofner violin bass special?
The Hofner 500/1 violin bass is special for its iconic association with Paul McCartney, distinctive symmetrical violin shape, lightweight hollow construction, and warm woody tone. The short 30-inch scale and minimal weight create comfortable playability. Beyond historical significance, the violin bass delivers unique tone unavailable from conventional bass guitars. Its acoustic-like qualities blend beautifully in vintage rock, pop, and jazz contexts.
What is the difference between Ignition and German-made Hofner basses?
Ignition series basses are manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications at accessible prices, delivering authentic look and basic tone. German-made premium basses feature traditional handcrafted construction, superior materials, hand-wound pickups, and meticulous quality control. German models offer enhanced resonance, superior hardware, and craftsmanship justifying higher prices. Both maintain the distinctive Hofner aesthetic but differ significantly in construction quality and tonal refinement.
Are Hofner basses good for beginners?
Hofner Ignition series violin basses suit beginners wanting iconic Beatles aesthetics and vintage tone. The short scale and lightweight design create comfortable playability. However, the hollow construction and unique tone characteristics differ from conventional solid-body basses. Beginners specifically interested in Beatles music, vintage styles, or lightweight instruments will appreciate Hofner. Those seeking modern bass tone might prefer solid-body alternatives initially.
How do I get Paul McCartney's bass tone?
Achieving Paul's tone requires a Hofner 500/1 violin bass with flatwound strings, played with a pick for his signature attack. Use vintage-voiced amplification with slight midrange emphasis. Paul's technique includes melodic bass lines, tasteful use of open strings, and dynamic playing. The combination of instrument, strings, playing technique, and amplification creates his distinctive sound. Visit our showroom for guidance on authentic McCartney tone.
Can I try Hofner basses before purchasing?
Absolutely. Our Altona showroom stocks Hofner violin basses and hollow-body guitars. Experience the lightweight comfort, distinctive tone, and vintage aesthetics firsthand. Test the 500/1 through bass amplification experiencing its unique voice. Compare Ignition and premium models understanding the differences. Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018.
Where are Hofner instruments manufactured?
Premium Hofner instruments are handcrafted in Hagenau, Germany maintaining traditional European luthier standards. Ignition series and entry-level models are manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications enabling accessible pricing. Contemporary series uses combination approaches. Regardless of manufacturing location, all instruments meet Hofner design standards and quality control ensuring authentic tone and appearance.
Do Hofner basses work for modern music styles?
Hofner basses excel for vintage rock, British Invasion, indie, and alternative styles where their distinctive voice enhances the music. For modern metal, hip-hop, or styles requiring aggressive modern bass tone, solid-body basses typically suit better. However, many contemporary artists use Hofner specifically for its unique character adding vintage flavor to modern productions. The violin bass works anywhere its distinctive voice benefits the music.
Are Hofner instruments left-handed friendly?
Yes, the symmetrical violin bass shape works perfectly for left-handed players, which originally attracted Paul McCartney. Hofner produces specific left-handed models across their range. The symmetrical design means many aesthetic elements work equally well flipped. Left-handed players benefit from Hofner's heritage serving the most famous left-handed bassist in history.
Does Angkor Music offer warranty on Hofner instruments?
Yes, all Hofner instruments purchased from Angkor Music include full Australian warranty coverage. As an authorized Hofner dealer, we provide warranty support and facilitate any necessary repairs or service. Hofner stands behind their instruments with comprehensive warranty protection covering manufacturing defects and construction issues. Our authorization ensures genuine Hofner products with proper warranty backing.
Are Hofner instruments good investments?
German-made Hofner instruments, particularly vintage examples and premium contemporary models, maintain value well due to their historical significance and quality construction. The Beatles association ensures continued interest and demand. While no instrument purchase should be primarily investment-focused, quality Hofner basses and guitars represent solid value retention compared to mass-produced alternatives. Premium models particularly hold value as collectible instruments with musical utility.
Visit Angkor Music Melbourne
4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018
Phone: (03) 8360 7799
Email: sales@angkormusic.com.au
Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm | Sat: 10am-5pm | Sun: 11am-4pm
Hofner Guitars & Basses Australia
Iconic Violin Bass | German Craftsmanship | Melbourne Showroom
Hofner represents legendary German instrument craftsmanship dating back to 1887. Founded by Karl Hofner in Schoenbach, Germany, Hofner builds iconic guitars and basses combining traditional European luthier techniques with timeless designs. The Hofner violin bass became immortalized by Paul McCartney with The Beatles, creating one of music history's most recognizable instruments. Today, Hofner continues producing exceptional hollow-body guitars, archtops, and the legendary violin bass maintaining German quality standards for over 135 years.
At Angkor Music Melbourne, we stock the complete Hofner range including the iconic violin bass, hollow-body guitars, and archtop models. Experience the lightweight comfort, vintage tone, and German craftsmanship that made Hofner instruments legendary. Visit our Altona showroom to test these historic instruments and discover why Hofner's combination of European tradition and iconic design continues inspiring musicians worldwide. Every Hofner instrument includes full Australian warranty coverage and represents genuine German manufacturing heritage.
Hofner Bass Guitars
500/1 Violin Bass - The Beatle Bass
The 500/1 Violin Bass represents one of music history's most iconic instruments. Made famous by Paul McCartney during The Beatles era, this distinctive bass features symmetrical violin-shaped body, hollow construction, and two pickups delivering warm, woody tone. The lightweight design and short 30-inch scale create comfortable playability. Available in vintage reissue and contemporary models, the 500/1 remains essential for Beatles enthusiasts, vintage bass collectors, and players wanting distinctive tone and aesthetics.
Ignition Series - Affordable Violin Bass
Ignition series brings the iconic violin bass within reach of more bassists. Manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications, Ignition basses deliver authentic 500/1 tone and aesthetics at accessible prices. These instruments maintain the distinctive look and sound that made Hofner famous while offering value for budget-conscious players, students, and Beatles tribute performers. Excellent entry point into Hofner ownership.
Contemporary Series Basses
Beyond the violin bass, Hofner produces contemporary bass models including Club Bass and Verythin designs. These semi-hollow and hollow-body basses deliver vintage tone with modern playability features. Perfect for players wanting Hofner quality and vintage character in more traditional bass shapes. Available in various configurations with different pickup arrangements and hardware options.
Hofner Guitars
Archtop Jazz Guitars
Hofner archtop guitars deliver classic jazz tone with German craftsmanship. Featuring carved tops, f-holes, and floating pickups, these guitars produce warm, acoustic resonance perfect for jazz, blues, and vintage styles. Various models from entry-level to professional carved-top instruments provide options across price points. Hofner archtops represent European luthier tradition applied to jazz guitar design.
Verythin & Club Guitars
Verythin and Club guitars feature shallow semi-hollow bodies combining electric guitar playability with hollow-body resonance. These guitars deliver vintage 1960s British Invasion tone with feedback resistance for amplified performance. Popular among indie, alternative, and vintage rock players wanting distinctive aesthetics and chimey, articulate tone. Lightweight construction suits extended playing sessions.
Why Choose Hofner?
Legendary Beatles Heritage: Hofner's association with Paul McCartney and The Beatles created music history's most recognizable bass guitar. When Paul chose the 500/1 violin bass in 1961, he established an iconic image that defined bass guitar aesthetics. Owning a Hofner violin bass connects you to this legendary heritage and the sound that shaped popular music. The Beatles connection ensures Hofner's place in music history forever.
German Craftsmanship Heritage: Hofner maintains traditional German luthier techniques developed over 135 years. Premium models are handcrafted in Germany with attention to detail and quality control reflecting European instrument-making traditions. This craftsmanship creates instruments with character, resonance, and build quality distinguishing them from mass-produced alternatives. Hofner represents authentic European instrument heritage.
Distinctive Vintage Tone: Hofner hollow-body construction delivers warm, woody tone with acoustic-like qualities unavailable from solid-body instruments. The distinctive voice suits vintage rock, British Invasion styles, jazz, and any music benefiting from organic, resonant character. This tone became integral to The Beatles sound and continues inspiring players seeking alternatives to modern solid-body tone.
Lightweight Comfort: Hollow construction creates remarkably lightweight instruments reducing shoulder strain during extended performances. The violin bass particularly excels for comfort with its compact size and minimal weight. This ergonomic advantage makes Hofner instruments favorites among touring musicians performing multiple sets. Comfort meets vintage tone and legendary aesthetics.
Paul McCartney & The 500/1 Bass
The Hamburg Years: Paul McCartney purchased his first Hofner 500/1 violin bass in 1961 at Steinway Music Store in Hamburg, Germany. The symmetrical shape suited Paul's left-handed playing, and the affordable price fit The Beatles' limited budget. This bass became Paul's primary instrument throughout The Beatles' most creative period, appearing on countless recordings and performances defining modern popular music.
The Beatles Sound: The 500/1's warm, round tone with slight midrange presence perfectly complemented The Beatles' arrangements. Its acoustic-like qualities blended beautifully with acoustic guitars while maintaining presence in rock contexts. Paul's melodic bass playing through the Hofner became fundamental to The Beatles' sound, influencing generations of bassists worldwide. The instrument and player created inseparable musical identity.
Continuing Legacy: Paul McCartney continues using Hofner basses throughout his solo career, maintaining the connection to his Beatles heritage. Modern bassists choose Hofner for both its historical significance and authentic vintage tone. The 500/1 transcended being merely an instrument to become a cultural icon representing an era that changed music forever.
Hofner Price Ranges
Ignition Series ($800-$1100): Affordable violin bass and guitar models manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications. These instruments deliver authentic Hofner aesthetics and tone at accessible prices. Perfect for students, Beatles tribute players, and musicians wanting iconic Hofner design on budget.
Contemporary Series ($1400-$2500): Mid-range Hofner instruments including improved violin bass models, Club guitars, and Verythin designs. Enhanced construction, better hardware, and improved electronics deliver professional performance. Suitable for gigging musicians and serious players wanting authentic Hofner quality.
German-Made Premium Series ($4500-$6000+): Handcrafted German instruments representing ultimate Hofner quality. These basses and guitars feature traditional construction methods, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. Built for collectors, professional touring musicians, and players demanding absolute finest quality and authentic German craftsmanship.
Why Buy Hofner from Angkor Music Melbourne?
Authorized Hofner Dealer - Genuine German and licensed instruments with full warranty
Violin Bass Specialists - Staff experienced with 500/1 setup and maintenance
Complete Range - Ignition through German-made premium models in stock
Professional Setup - Every instrument inspected and optimized before delivery
Try Before Buy - Experience the legendary violin bass and hollow-body guitars
Beatles Heritage Knowledge - Expert guidance on authentic McCartney tone and setup
Fast Australia Shipping - Secure packaging with climate control and insurance
Best Pricing - Competitive Hofner prices with full warranty support
Complete Your Hofner Setup
Optimize your Hofner bass with appropriate accessories. We stock flatwound bass strings delivering authentic vintage tone Paul McCartney used. Protect your investment with quality cases designed for violin bass and hollow-body shapes. Connect with premium cables maintaining signal quality from vintage-voiced instruments.
Achieve McCartney's tone through appropriate amplification. Explore bass amplifiers including vintage-voiced models from Ampeg and Fender. For guitars, consider British-voiced amplifiers from Vox and Marshall complementing Hofner's vintage character. Maintain your Hofner with premium care products suitable for hollow-body instruments and vintage finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Hofner violin bass special?
The Hofner 500/1 violin bass is special for its iconic association with Paul McCartney, distinctive symmetrical violin shape, lightweight hollow construction, and warm woody tone. The short 30-inch scale and minimal weight create comfortable playability. Beyond historical significance, the violin bass delivers unique tone unavailable from conventional bass guitars. Its acoustic-like qualities blend beautifully in vintage rock, pop, and jazz contexts.
What is the difference between Ignition and German-made Hofner basses?
Ignition series basses are manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications at accessible prices, delivering authentic look and basic tone. German-made premium basses feature traditional handcrafted construction, superior materials, hand-wound pickups, and meticulous quality control. German models offer enhanced resonance, superior hardware, and craftsmanship justifying higher prices. Both maintain the distinctive Hofner aesthetic but differ significantly in construction quality and tonal refinement.
Are Hofner basses good for beginners?
Hofner Ignition series violin basses suit beginners wanting iconic Beatles aesthetics and vintage tone. The short scale and lightweight design create comfortable playability. However, the hollow construction and unique tone characteristics differ from conventional solid-body basses. Beginners specifically interested in Beatles music, vintage styles, or lightweight instruments will appreciate Hofner. Those seeking modern bass tone might prefer solid-body alternatives initially.
How do I get Paul McCartney's bass tone?
Achieving Paul's tone requires a Hofner 500/1 violin bass with flatwound strings, played with a pick for his signature attack. Use vintage-voiced amplification with slight midrange emphasis. Paul's technique includes melodic bass lines, tasteful use of open strings, and dynamic playing. The combination of instrument, strings, playing technique, and amplification creates his distinctive sound. Visit our showroom for guidance on authentic McCartney tone.
Can I try Hofner basses before purchasing?
Absolutely. Our Altona showroom stocks Hofner violin basses and hollow-body guitars. Experience the lightweight comfort, distinctive tone, and vintage aesthetics firsthand. Test the 500/1 through bass amplification experiencing its unique voice. Compare Ignition and premium models understanding the differences. Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018.
Where are Hofner instruments manufactured?
Premium Hofner instruments are handcrafted in Hagenau, Germany maintaining traditional European luthier standards. Ignition series and entry-level models are manufactured overseas to Hofner specifications enabling accessible pricing. Contemporary series uses combination approaches. Regardless of manufacturing location, all instruments meet Hofner design standards and quality control ensuring authentic tone and appearance.
Do Hofner basses work for modern music styles?
Hofner basses excel for vintage rock, British Invasion, indie, and alternative styles where their distinctive voice enhances the music. For modern metal, hip-hop, or styles requiring aggressive modern bass tone, solid-body basses typically suit better. However, many contemporary artists use Hofner specifically for its unique character adding vintage flavor to modern productions. The violin bass works anywhere its distinctive voice benefits the music.
Are Hofner instruments left-handed friendly?
Yes, the symmetrical violin bass shape works perfectly for left-handed players, which originally attracted Paul McCartney. Hofner produces specific left-handed models across their range. The symmetrical design means many aesthetic elements work equally well flipped. Left-handed players benefit from Hofner's heritage serving the most famous left-handed bassist in history.
Does Angkor Music offer warranty on Hofner instruments?
Yes, all Hofner instruments purchased from Angkor Music include full Australian warranty coverage. As an authorized Hofner dealer, we provide warranty support and facilitate any necessary repairs or service. Hofner stands behind their instruments with comprehensive warranty protection covering manufacturing defects and construction issues. Our authorization ensures genuine Hofner products with proper warranty backing.
Are Hofner instruments good investments?
German-made Hofner instruments, particularly vintage examples and premium contemporary models, maintain value well due to their historical significance and quality construction. The Beatles association ensures continued interest and demand. While no instrument purchase should be primarily investment-focused, quality Hofner basses and guitars represent solid value retention compared to mass-produced alternatives. Premium models particularly hold value as collectible instruments with musical utility.
Visit Angkor Music Melbourne
4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018
Phone: (03) 8360 7799
Email: sales@angkormusic.com.au
Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm | Sat: 10am-5pm | Sun: 11am-4pm
