Hofner Contemporary Series Cavern Violin Bass (Sunburst) inc Hard Case

Born from the creative vision of Walter Hofner and unveiled at the 1956 Frankfurt Music Messe, the Hofner 500/1 Violin Bass has carved its place as one of the most iconic electric bass guitars ever created. Its distinctive appearance and unmistakable sound have made it instantly recognisable across the global music landscape.

The Hofner 500/1 ‘Cavern’ Violin Bass draws its name from Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club, which opened its doors in 1957 and quickly became Europe’s most significant venue for emerging bands during the Beatboom period. The club’s first beat night session in 1960 featured Rory Storm and the Hurricanes with Ringo Starr behind the kit, and by mid-1961, the Merseybeat movement was thriving with the Beatles and the Cavern Club at its heart.

What sets Hofner’s Cavern basses apart is their distinctive pickup configuration, with both pickups positioned close together for a unique tonal character. The internal sustain block creates a modern, deep resonating bass tone whilst preserving the classic Hofner bass qualities that made the original so special. This particular model pays homage to the 1961 bass that Paul McCartney famously acquired in Hamburg, cementing its place in rock history.