Hofner Violin Bass 500/1 Vintage 63 2003

The Höfner 500/1 Violin Bass Vintage '63 from 2003 recreates the iconic bass that became synonymous with Paul McCartney and the Beatles' sound.

With its distinctive violin-shaped hollow body, flame maple back and spruce top, this lightweight instrument delivers the warm, rounded tone that defined countless hit records, while its compact 30" scale makes it remarkably comfortable to play. The original 500/1 was introduced in 1955, but it was McCartney's adoption of the bass in 1961 that catapulted it to worldwide fame.

This Vintage '63 reissue faithfully reproduces the specifications from that golden era, including the dual staple pickups that provide the characteristically warm, woody tone with excellent note definition. The hollow body construction keeps the weight down to just 2.20 kg, making it one of the most comfortable basses for extended playing sessions, while also contributing to its unique acoustic resonance. The symmetrical body shape means the bass balances perfectly whether you're left or right-handed, and the shorter 30" scale reduces string tension for a more relaxed playing feel. The rhythm/solo switch, bass and treble boost switches offer versatile tonal shaping options that were innovative for their time.

The bass has light playwear on the body, neck and harware, but is very clean overall. In excellent condition with its sunburst finish and pearloid pickguard, this Höfner Violin Bass is both a piece of music history and a highly playable instrument that still sounds as fresh today as it did in the 1960s. The bass comes in a hardshell case with a TFOA passport.