Hofner 500/1 Cavern Reissue

Electric Fretted 4-String Bass

Made by Hofner

Description Semi-acoustic violin style in a vintage 1961 design.
Posted By Mike Hokkanen (27043)
Directory Equipment: Basses
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Overall Rating: 5.0 (of 5)
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Member Reviews


On 3/11/2003, Mike Hokkanen (27043) posted:
Overall Rating:
I would like to think I would replace this bass again if lost or stolen, but they are (a little too) pricey. The bass could be improved with a more efficient strap(lock) system. Also, it plays more "bassy" with the bass control switch in the off position. This is a bass that sounds as beautiful as it looks. Out of all the instruments that I have EVER played, this one is the attention getter - the conversation starter, and rightly so!!!
Price: $1500.00 (new)
Where Obtained: Music Ground, Leeds - UK
Features:
Made in Germany of selected flame maple. It is a four sringed bass with 22 frets on a rosewood fretboard with beech reinforcement inlayed on the back of the neck for support. It has two passive Hofner "diamond" pickups. The bass features 2 volume controls, 2 on/off switches, and a rhythm/solo switch for bass boost. The Hofner has a distinct "floating" bridge with movable metal saddles.
Playability:
The two greatest attributes of these bass are its tremendous acoustic sound, and the short scale neck which allows smaller hands to navigate without a lot of stretch. It has the best sound out of my three basses. The other 2 are a MIM Fender Jazz and a Yamaha RBX260L.
Sound Quality:
The musical style I play mostly, Praise and Worship - is more orchesteral in nature. I couldn't think of a better bass to suit this purpose. The sound is very full and acoustic. I think it would also be suitable for a lot of easy, oldie, or folk type rock/music.
Durability:
Reliability and durability will be a big issue. This is an unknown quantity and I have received mixed reviews. I think a key is, take care of this bass like a fine/more expensive acoustic (Taylor/Martin, etc.) and it should be fine.