1990's Hofner 500/1 Vintage '63 Violin Bass (1963 German Reissue)

Brand

Hofner

Hofner H500/1 Vintage '63 \Violin Beatle Bass (1963 German Reissue) Sunburst w/Original Hard Molded Case Up for sale, a Made in Germany Hofner H500/1 1963 Reissue Beatle Bass. 100% all original and in Very Good + condition, this is a fantastic player-grade example with genuine character and a real history of use. Made in the mid-1990s, this is an early export-version German Reissue that comes with its original black hard molded case, which was typical for the era and export markets like the US. This particular bass has definitely seen plenty of studio time over the years, having served in a professional recording environment, and it shows the kind of tasteful, honest wear you’d expect from a well-loved instrument. It features cool patina all over, with visible playwear and some lacquer checking on the spruce top. There's also some buckle rash on the back of the body, strictly in the finish only — no cracks or structural issues whatsoever. The wear only adds to the vintage vibe and mojo of this instrument. If you're a session or studio musician or producer, this is one of the best Hofners you can get at this price point, far more toneful and authentic than most 1970s or 1980s models. It’s super lightweight and resonant unplugged, thanks to its fully hollow construction. Don’t confuse this with the newer “Artist” series — those are the budget-friendly version, which is why they sell for $1,000 or more less than a proper V62, V63, or V64 reissue, which now retail for around $3,300 brand new. These V63 Reissues are some of the closest ever made to the original '60s instruments, featuring the classic Hofner control panel, two staple pickups, a three-piece Flame Maple neck, an unbound rosewood fretboard, a Flame Maple back and sides, and a spruce top. The neck is perfectly straight and the truss rod is fully functional. It’s strung with an older set of La Bella flatwounds and plays beautifully with low action and clean intonation. Whether you’re a McCartney fan, a collector, or a recording musician, this is the real deal short scale thumper, with that signature round, pillowy low end that only a German Hofner can truly deliver.