In March 2003, a subsidiary company called The Music Group took over the running of Hofner from Boosey &
Hawkes, their UK company being Besson Musical Instruments Ltd. In 2005
however, a management buy-out, headed by Klaus Scholler, made the Hofner Company
independent again.
Hofner's current range of guitars includes nylon-strung classical,
bass guitars, archtops, and the recently re-introduced range of
"Sienna" flattops plus the Colorama and Shorty solid guitars.
The bass guitars are all versions of the famous 500/1 violin bass model and its 500/2 Club Bass sister. The 2006 Range comprises of:
GERMANY:
|
UK & SCANDINAVIA:
|
USA:
|
CANADA:
Hofner Canada
Email: hofnercanada@ca.inter.net
|
Based on a certain Sir Paul McCartney's instrument, including such touches as "two-in one" strip machine heads and a two piece neck. The standard finish is Antique Brown Sunburst, with right-hand and of course, left hand versions being available.
Following on from the '62 re-issue, the Vintage '63 reflects the changes made in that year. It therefore features single unit tuners and a three-piece neck. Nickel plated hardware and an antique brown sunburst finish complete the package.
A fretless version of this bass has recently been introduced.
An authentic re-issue of the bass that Sir Paul bought in Hamburg in 1961. Closely spaced "Diamond" logo pickups without exposed pole-pieces are the main identification feature of this bass, together with the vertical Hofner logo headstock. A three piece neck is also fitted, with individual machine heads, and the body has a flat back, in keeping with the 1961 period.
I have to say that this is more my scene, and it is what Hofner have always done really well - beautiful timbers and rich inlays, binding, and extravagant purfling! A one piece maple neck is fitted and best quality flame maple veneers are used for the basses back and sides. The fingerboard is ebony, and all hardware is gold platted, naturally. A work of art!
This lovely instrument is based on the 1961 "Cavern Bass", but it features a carved solid spruce top. It has a limited production run of 150, and it comes complete with a certificate.
Click HERE to see pictures of the 50th Anniversary Model.
Just introduced by Hofner as part of their 2003 Range. An alternative to the 500/1 but with a similar feel, sound, and ease of playing. This bass matches the body of that old favourite 6 string guitar, the "Club" , with the neck and electrics of the 500/1. Prior to this re-issue, the 500/2 was produced by Hofner between 1965 and 1970. A three piece neck is used, with a bound rosewood fingerboard. Individual tuners are fitted. The standard finish was antique brown sunburst, but a very special black finish with gold plated hardware is now being offered.
Click HERE to see pictures of Jack Daley's Black 500/2 Bass.
This model is produced in Hofner's facility in China. It had an excellent review in the UK Guitarist magazine 2006 Summer Edition. It is obviously based on it's German built cousin, but it is also equipped with a sustain block inside the body. Finish options are the traditional antique brown sunburst, together with black.
Another one from China, and aimed at the budget end of the market. It has the usual laminated spruce top with flame maple back & sides though, together with a set neck, rosewood fingerboard, and 30" scale. Only available in the US though.
Many thanks to The Hofner Company, and Graham Stockley, for permission to use the above photographs on my website. But don't forget, the pictures in the catalogues are much better. Download your copy now!