Hofner Beatle Bass, model 500/1, 1967

This auction is for the Hofner model 500/1 violin-shaped “Beatle Bass” from 1967.

All the features of the instrument support the dating of this instrument to 1967:

·       Pot codes

·       22 fret fretboard

·       Individual tuning machines, enclosed with slotted screws

·       Pearloid control plate and pickguard, no Hofner name on pickguard

·       Horizontal gold script logo

·       Bar-blade pickups

·       Round control knobs with foil

·       Short lyre tailpiece

All parts appear to be original. This is a short-scale bass (30”) with new LaBella strings. The neck is adjusted straight with minimal clearance at the7th fret (1/64”). String action at the 12^th fret is 3/32” on the low E and 2/32” on the “G”.

There is a white/black/white string nut (1 9/16” wide) and a zero fret. Electronic controls include 3 slide switches, and volume control knobs for each pick-up. There is minor scratchiness in the neck pick-up volume control. The bound fretboard is rosewood with dot markers.

One string post grommet is missing (from the “D” string). Frets and fretboard show minimal wear. There are some minor dings and dents on the body and neck, but the finish is in overall good condition with minimal lacquer checking.

The original case is included, but is in poor condition.