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Overview

The Hofner 500/1 is closely associated with Paul McCartney and the Beatles. Paul's use of this bass in the early '60s propelled Hofner sales and turned the 500/1 into an absolutely iconic instrument. When German-made Hofner instruments were distributed in the United Kingdom, they were given model names to go along with their model numbers, and the 500/1 was dubbed the Violin Bass. It is also commonly referred to as the Beatles Bass. This design has been imitated by a number of other makers since including Vox and Greco.

Years of Production: 1956 - present

Body Style: Semi-hollowbody

Wood Composition: Maple body, Spruce top, Rosewood fingerboard

Design Elements: Bound body, glued-in neck, two pickups, dot inlays, three tone switches and two control knobs

Notable Players: Paul McCartney, Chris Wood

Product Specs

Brand
Model
  • 500/1 Violin Bass
Finish
  • Sunburst
Year
  • 1970
Categories

From the Price Guide

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