Replace Hofner CT Control Panel?

[Pimpernel Smith]

I'm sure that many of us have seen E.J.'s wonderful videos on his Backbeat channel and have appreciated is skills and knowledge that he applies to restoring Hofner basses.
I've owned many Hofner basses over the years.

Two of his restorations have involved replacing the CT model and Ignition/Icon models original control panels with German made control panels. I've wondered about this, and how beneficial it might be. Is it just gilting the lily?

In my opinion, my Ignition/Icon model sounds better played with a pick than my CT Model. But the CT sounds better played with fingers than the Ignition model.

If you've made this change, or decided not to make this change, I'd like to hear your opinion as to whether it was worth doing, or not.

 

[Thornton Davis]

I replaced ALL of the hardware on my HCT500/1 about 10 years ago, that included the control panel as well. Other than the body and neck the basses hardware and electronics are all German made.

Chinese components were cheaply made compared to their German made counterparts. No regrets would do it again. From a tone perspective, no difference IMO.

TD

 

[Pimpernel Smith]

Thanks, TD. Interesting about the tone not being different. Thanks for the honest appraisal.