Double Bass Hofner Basses

[rodmallia]

Dear all,

I've found out that a nearby shop is a local dealer for Hofner basses. So naturally, I'm now very much intrigued. I still haven't hopped down to the shop but I've corresponded with the owner through email and he directed me to the Hofner website.

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My question is, simply, which of the above basses should I be looking at? There isn't a lot of information on the website so that's why I'm turning to you, experienced players. In addition, how does Hofner compare with other brands? I would love to hear from anyone who has actually played / heard these basses.

Of course, I know that this is a very subjective question and that I should eventually pick out the bass that 'sings' to me, but being a beginner, I could do with some guiding. Basically, to put you all in perspective, I would like to play jazz (ie., pizz), mostly, however, I would love if the bass wouldn't sound bad under an arco. For who knows, I might just fall in love with its classical aspect and focus on that, eventually ...

Many Thanks,

Rod

 

[draftsmann]

When I saw your post Rod I wondered if your attention had turned to the Hofner violin basses, which are somewhat more portable than a DB! I know Charles in Zabbar is very interested in Hofner guitars and bass guitars and is I think a main dealer for them. I can only assume that it is he who deals in their uprights too? I'm curious too now.

Good to meet this week by the way!

Ciao,

Adrian

 

[rodmallia]

Spot on, Adrian! Charles is, in fact, the main dealer for Hofner in Malta. He told me he'll gladly quote me a price for any model I saw on the Hofner website. But there's not much info on that website, unfortunately.

And yes, it was really nice meeting you in person

 

[Steve Swan]

I personally play a 7/8 size H5/8-B model. These are the same as what Paesold calls a 592 model. The 7/8 versions are labeled "4/4" while the 3/4 models are typical of a lot of the modern era German models in terms of general size and a 41" string length. I like the generally light build and easy response of these instruments.

Good luck! Let us know how it turns out.