Two New Solid Body Chinese-Made Hofner Basses: The HCT-185 and HCT-GLXB-B
(Dave Molter | Posted 2009-12-23)
Best known for its short-scale, violin-shaped Beatle Bass, German guitar company Hofner has introduced two new solid body basses made in China. The HCT-185 is a 34"-scale with maple neck and rosewood fingerboard with pearl inlay markers. Available in Tobacco Sunburst and White, the HCT-185 features two Hofner humbuckers and "clover" style chrome tuning keys.
The HCT-GLXB-B is a 30"-scale with two Hofner "staple-top" pickups, the smaller, pearl-button tuning keys associated with the Beatle bass, maple/rosewood neck with pearl inlays and is available in Seafoam Green only. Both basses carry retail prices of $469. It appears that BAss Northwest in Seattle is the only AMerican dealer carrying the new Hofners. (www.bassnw.com)
My first "good" bass way back in 1965 was a Hofner solid body that looked very much like these basses. It was a solidly made instrument that sounded good and served me well until I could afford a Fender Precision. While these basses might not have the appeal of the Chinese-made Hofner Icon and Contemporary series violin bass clones, they should appeal to players looking for a retro vibe at a bargain price, and the 34"-scale option is appealing for players who like a full size bass. Gotta love that Seafoam Green, too!
