Now you have the missing link between the 60s and the ignition... a respectable bass - even if not a complete German - at a more affordable cost... Good job, man!
EJ, I’m really loving these videos! I love modifying basses and it’s good to see someone so passionate about Hofners. This video is informative and gold. The bass turned out great!!
I did a similar job reshaping a Les Paul style plate to fit a non-standard layout - finished up using a CHEAP steel rule, which had razor-sharp edges, and was able to shave the guard in a similar way a luthier would use scrapers to fashion wood. The end result was perfect.
Keeps getting better! Have you considered painting the screws around the pickups black and the two screws on the pick guard white? That might add to the aesthetic. There's a custom pickup designer named Curtis Novak who I had contacted some years ago about a Hofner Ignition project I wanted to do. He said that he could build pickups for the Hofner Ignition that would fit but wound to vintage spec for the original German Hofner. He does great work. Had him replace my jazz pickup in my 90's Fender P-bass Deluxe.
Hi! I actually did put some black sharpie on the pickup mount screw heads but not the adjuster screw. Yes I know Curtis, I had him rewind my hofner club pickups a few years back. The one thing I would possibly try before rewinding the pickups would be to pot them. That is if they servive that process. Thx!
@@niallchurch2679 @Backbeat Vintage If you guys can find those screws, please let me know! I've thought about altering the pickup mount screws as well.
Hiya, and a great big hello from Ireland. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed your videos of the upgrading. The ignition you upscale I noticed was a China model. I purchased one the other day from Thomann in Germany, and from the stock photos of the back of the head, it's stamped made in Germany, but I also noticed they used screws on the pickguard like the one you worked on. My question is, is it possible to age both it, and the electronics panel in the same way that you aged the machine heads? As I thought you did an amazing job on them, rather than replacing both for the time being. Once again thank you for posting these amazing videos, they are absolutely fabulous and so informative. Sending you very best wishes and blessings from Ireland for your continued success. Sean 👍☘👍
Hi Sean, the aging pen that i used was purchased from stewmac.com and i believe the aged lacquor also can be purchased in an aresol can. Just be sure to clean the surface off so that the paint sticks and doesnt fisheye. Regarding the ignition and where they are made its always hard to say what hofner does. Thanks so much for watching and Im glad they are helpful. Thanks again! EJ
Hofner Violin and Club basses look better without the pickguard in my estimation. This applies to German and Asian versions. Be that as it may you did a nice job here.
Hi, do you mean aging the pickguard or control panel? Thats a tough one….if spraying it with clear agd stewmac lacquer its going to be inconsistant unless done carefully. Might be best to try staining it with a shoe polish. Dont try this if your going to eventually spray it. I usually buy yellowed pickguards and control panels. The ignition and hct basses use extremely white plastic. German plates are less brilliant. Thx, EJ
Another great video EJ. After watching the video regarding the use of nails by Hofner I have a question. I have a 1966 and am missing the truss rod cover. The holes look like nails were used rather than screws to secure the cover. Any insight here?
Your two videos on upgrading the Chinese Hofner were a pleasure to watch. Thank you so much! I was about to get the German one, but now think it might be fun to try upgrading myself. Can you give me info how much the original parts I'd have to order are in total? Hofner doesn't have prices on their webpage. Best wishes, Chris
I would estimate the ignition bass to be about $400 plus about an additional $1000 depending on the level of upgrade you go for. This is a rough estimate as a guide plus this is if you do the work. I am not taking in work and just focusing on the youtube channel. Thx!
I just bought a new Ignition and I was wondering if I could dye or stain the pearloid parts to look a little bit more yellowed or aged. BTW I love your channel.
Hugh Davis Hi, there is. In my early videos you will see it. Its actually a stewmac.com clear aged lacquor pen. Check it out in my early videos. Good luck!
The markers you used to age the plastic parts are the best. Thanks for showing how to do that. Also, for showing and explaining the process of replacing the tail. I have thought of changing out my Club HCT bass with a German tail. Would you know if it takes a short or long tail? That would make my bass mostly German where it counts. I'll keep the original HCT tuners I guess. Actually would like to replace those with 2 on a strip if they would fit the same spacing. Hmmm. Loving these videos on all of your gear.
Is it possible to change the color of the Hofner logo on the head to match the German made models? Wonderful channel!!! Looking forward to viewing your next video.
Great Job but I have a suggestion. Could of been really easy to just drill a neck hole for the Reissue Pickguard front nail and drill a hole in the bridge to accommodate the back nail. The pick guard would of had the "Exact" look of German PG.
Hi, yup that was an option. Since they already drilled holes in the top of the body i just wanted to use them instead of filling them in.Maybe on the next one. Thanks for the suggestion.
Hello! I just bought a black Ignition bass and I'm feeling a little conflicted about it. I wonder if you can answer a couple questions for me? Mainly I want to know if I can modify it to have a more standard string spacing. I play fingerstyle 95% of the time. I imagine that would be a tough one to pull off tho... I may end up with something similar like the Allen Woody Rumblekat if I can't fix/get used to the spacing. Anyway, I love the look of it, the pickups sound very nice and its comfy to play. The fit and finish of it is pretty shoddy when you compare it to a similarly priced guitar, but this is understandable because something like a P Bass is way less delicate and fiddly than one of these.
John Freda hi, try sliding the bridge four fret wires over or closer to change the string spacing. Then put a very small drop of clear super glue next to the fret in the slot.
Very carefully tap on the side edge of the small piece of fret wire using a small screw driver and small hammer and it will slide over. Very, very light tap.
Outstanding work. Inspired by this, I've done most of the same upgrades to my Ignition. The last thing I still have to do is the pickguard. What kind of cross-cut pliers did you use? Is that a StewMac Fret Cutter?
Hi, i would use stewmacs item 7051 “Aged Clear Lacquer” in a marker pen and carefully go over the binding until it matched. Dont let the marker get to wet or it will drip. Thx!
You really intrigued me with that antique aging marker. Do you think it would antique/yellow the extremely white ignition pickguard and control panel cover without having to install the original German hardware? I would love to see a video where you use that aging marker on the original pickguard to see how it turns out. Tubs of for this video. I’m going to see if I ever get the courage to do all of these mods to my ignition.
@backbeatvintage Just out of curiosity. Would it be possible to put a third Pickup on a Hoffner Violine Bass (ignition)? -lile a mix between the cavern and the normal hofner- And then mod the Controlplate-switch, turn on and off every pickup individually. Would really like to know if such a thing is even feasible. Much thanks and great videos you but out.
Default Monkey hi, i’ve never done that but anthing is possible. Not sure what the advantage would be. The german cavern bass has completely different pickups. Not a staple type pickup. Its possible...
Great video! I heard that Höfner did indeed screw the pickguards right into the body (just like here with the Ignition series) on the German 500/1 basses in the early 90s. Could that be true? Sacrilege, anyway...
@@BackbeatVintage Thanks! That's where I bought the bridge from as well, but unfortunately the tailpiece is out of stock. I bought it here: reverb.com/item/33570685-genuine-hofner-tailpiece-h62-30-s-long-for-500-1-bass Is that the correct one?
Mr Backbeat where can I buy the pieces that you have used to upgrade the ignition? Is it a good bass if I just add these pieces on or should I buy a German one? Thank you for the video!
It does fit but requires some reshaping/bending to fit the contour of the body. The two new screw holes just fit as long as you use very small thin screws. On mine it did cover the corner screw holes. Thx. Ej
About that tail piece, if you leave the part that screws onto the guitar at the back, and remove the rest ,will the other trapeze part hook onto the piece that still screws onto the guitar?
Hi, love the channel! I'm inspired to upgrade my '07 Icon B-bass. Luckily it has 250K pots, but I'm going flatwounds and teacups. My question is about the zero fret. What do you recommend? The problem is the 1.215 string spacing which is hard to match. Thanks!
the block inside is only on the ignition? I thought the german like the ignition and CT model are 3 ply? According to the hofner video that is, so why does the ignition need a support block inside?
Anything is possible but there is a size difference and really there is nothing wrong with these pickups. Also the contour of the bodies are different so the pickup mounts would have to be reshaped because you would need to use the german mounts from a 65 or later hofner. They are much larger too. Thanks!
Awesome video EJ. I really enjoyed it a lot. I Noticed that the Hofner 65 pickups are very similar to the ignition ones Do you think it is possible to install 65 Germán style pickups in a Hofner ignition body? Thank you
hi, i got the hofner club base ,i would like to change the nut with a stop frat ,i cant seem to find one on line.if you can please let me know where i can get one?thanx
E.J., I mentioned before that I have an Ignition, but a couple of years ago I walked into my local Guitar Center and hanging there was an Ignition but it's finish wasn't like the other very dark outer sunburst I'd seen on all the others but a lighter more violin sunburst as on the German models. I asked the kid working Guitar Center but, of course, he was clueless about it.I even emailed Hofner asking about that finish but got no reply. It was a much nicer, more authentic looking finish. Have you come across any Ignitions with a similar finish?
Hey, I love your videos, they are super helpful! Thank you so much for those. There‘s one more thing I’d love to see and that would be how to replicate the binding on the headstock. I was going to do that on my Ignition but I’m really not shure how I can do that. Do you think I can sand down the clear lacquer, put some vintage/aged white color on the edges around the headstock and then put clear lacquer back over it? Do you think that would work? Thanks again, keep the awesome videos coming!
Try using the aged lacquor pen i used in some of my video. Lightly scuff and then apply a thin swipe but be carefull not to let it run. Practice on something else first. Mask of neck just in case.
@@BackbeatVintage Hey, thanks that's good advice. I was going to get the pen for the tuning pegs anyway, so that's a pretty good idea actually 🙂 but first I'll try to replace the nut. I couldn't find a slotted one, so I have to file my own. Never done this before. Have you done this for any of your Hofners?
Your videos are great, I'm a fan. I don't know if this has been asked before, but what is your opinion on the Hofner HI-459-SB Ignition Series 6-string guitars? They are relatively more affordable (around $300-$500), but I am pretty sure they are manufactured in China. Would you possibly be interested in making a upgrade video of these guitars?
Hi, the german tailpieces vary in size too. Generally a german or contemporary will fit. Long or short. I think I used a v62, v63, v64 replacemnt tailpiece. Thx!
Hi there, is it a fine sandpaper you use to remove the writing on the truss rod cover? I have put tea cup knobs on but think removing the writing will make it look more authentic, great videos
@@beechclanger That's what I used to remove mine. Just take your time and be careful. When you look closely at mine, it does look a little bit scratched, but the writing is gone.
I’m trying to this figure out, because I’m modding my hofner ignition so it looks like Paul’s , and I was wondering so I can ether paint the pick guard beige or just leave it white? What’s your idea?
Hi, the thing about the hofner pickguards is that the fake mother of pearl plastic used starts out white but as it gases out it yellows over time and gets a vintage look. I think if you paint it it might be vulnerable to scratching off. EJ
Backbeat Vintage, the thing is, I’m using a yellow marker and coloring the pick guard, and before it sticks I’m gonna grab a napkin to wipe it off so it has a yellow tint.
Hi I received my Ignition Bass a few days ago. I'm very surprised that the neck is very fat almost as fat as a six string guitar. Anyway is there any other way to age all the white plastic ??
Hi EJ, I really enjoy your channel being a Hofner fanatic myself. I have a question to ask you. I soldered a 62 plate into my 500/1 but now I have to turn the volume knobs counter clockwise to get some volume even though the plate is in the right way. Can you tell me what it is I might be doing wrong here? Greetings from The Netherlands! Paul
Paul Heinhuis Hi, it sure sound like something is connected backwards. Maybe at the output jack? Or see if some of the wires on the control unit are pushed down and shorting out. I had that issue with my vintage control plates with no shelding on the ground wires on the control plate. Is this a german, hct or ignition bass? Is the 62 plate vintage or a reissue?
@@BackbeatVintage Hi EJ. It's an vintage 62 original controlplate. I will check the wiring again but to the best of my knowledge everything is soldered correctly...I haven't got a clue.
@@BackbeatVintage No luck EJ.I reversed everything but still no change...best leave it like this I think. Thanks for your time and advice! Regards, Paul
Really fascinating 👍 Was surprised the Chinese picks ups were adequate, that’s quite heartening. However, I was wondering, are the Chinese pickups Alnico or Ceramic? Grass the German pups are Alnico ? Again thanks for a great walk through on your work 😁
Português Inglês Congratulations on the great job! please add a caption, I'm from Brazil, and the experience for us would be much cooler! thank you so much!
It is such an attractive bass to begin with, but you really turned it into a gem. Look wise, the pickguard is definitely the one thing I'd change. The original feels cheap, it's not a clean cut, and it's too bright I don't even know why but I'm so attracted to this bass. When I go to the store I always grab one and take it to their gig room. It's both toyish and so cool at the same time, I struggle to put it down and not take it home, because I don't need an extra bass. I do wonder how well it ages. Are hollow bodies more prone to crack under normal, regular use, if they're made under asian quality standards? Still. I'm one good sale or great second hand away from buying one.
Yes. There are two length hofner tailpieces. Be sure to get the right one. I believe it is the shorter one like on the hofner club basses and used on the 500/1 from 65 on up until the mid 70’s. Check the video to be sure. I’m pretty sure I mentioned that. Thx!
I want to modify my ignition with my personal "liutaio"(I don't know how to say it in English xD, it's a guitar/bass engineer) I bought an original hofner zero fret, bridge, and upper plate, pickguard and control panel. Now to complete it I need the tailpiece and the mechanics.
Mr Backbeat ,,, great upgrades , looks amazing , but i just saw a video of a zero fret upgrade i think you should see the dude was very clever on how he did it , his youtube name is Notneb ,, check it out !!!!!!
The Beatle model of this bass I got in Germany as a kid in the 60's. It was a horrible bass. When I got my Jazz Bass, my bass playing world was all ++.
You really should have more viewers! I love how you’ve found your awesome niche and stuck with it and are nailing it!
Now you have the missing link between the 60s and the ignition... a respectable bass - even if not a complete German - at a more affordable cost...
Good job, man!
EJ, I’m really loving these videos! I love modifying basses and it’s good to see someone so passionate about Hofners. This video is informative and gold. The bass turned out great!!
Great job Sir, now I'm aimed to purchase one of these pieces to do the correct makeup on it. Thanks a lot for sharing your "how-to".
This is how they should come from the factory 👍 Nice work
I did a similar job reshaping a Les Paul style plate to fit a non-standard layout - finished up using a CHEAP steel rule, which had razor-sharp edges, and was able to shave the guard in a similar way a luthier would use scrapers to fashion wood. The end result was perfect.
holy shit, your work is perfect! cheers from brazil!
This is making me want to get an ignition Bass to get the more authentic look.
Great video.
I enjoy your videos so much!
Thanks!
Keeps getting better! Have you considered painting the screws around the pickups black and the two screws on the pick guard white? That might add to the aesthetic. There's a custom pickup designer named Curtis Novak who I had contacted some years ago about a Hofner Ignition project I wanted to do. He said that he could build pickups for the Hofner Ignition that would fit but wound to vintage spec for the original German Hofner. He does great work. Had him replace my jazz pickup in my 90's Fender P-bass Deluxe.
Hi! I actually did put some black sharpie on the pickup mount screw heads but not the adjuster screw. Yes I know Curtis, I had him rewind my hofner club pickups a few years back. The one thing I would possibly try before rewinding the pickups would be to pot them. That is if they servive that process. Thx!
I'm sure you could get black screws!
@@niallchurch2679 @Backbeat Vintage If you guys can find those screws, please let me know! I've thought about altering the pickup mount screws as well.
"I think I have another Höfner bass somewhere around here I can compare it to...."
Funny!I bet he has quite a few to compare it to! Great vids E.J.
Nice work i like that you take the time to do it right
Thanks Terry! Ej
The new tailpiece looks better anyway
Awesome work, respect..
Great video. I've been looking for a video like this. Might need to pick up one of those clear aged lacquer pens. Thanks!
Hiya, and a great big hello from Ireland. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed your videos of the upgrading. The ignition you upscale I noticed was a China model. I purchased one the other day from Thomann in Germany, and from the stock photos of the back of the head, it's stamped made in Germany, but I also noticed they used screws on the pickguard like the one you worked on.
My question is, is it possible to age both it, and the electronics panel in the same way that you aged the machine heads? As I thought you did an amazing job on them, rather than replacing both for the time being.
Once again thank you for posting these amazing videos, they are absolutely fabulous and so informative.
Sending you very best wishes and blessings from Ireland for your continued success.
Sean 👍☘👍
Hi Sean, the aging pen that i used was purchased from stewmac.com and i believe the aged lacquor also can be purchased in an aresol can. Just be sure to clean the surface off so that the paint sticks and doesnt fisheye. Regarding the ignition and where they are made its always hard to say what hofner does. Thanks so much for watching and Im glad they are helpful. Thanks again! EJ
Any chance you could get a camera inside a n ignition I'm intrigued by how it's made inside AND that block supporting the bridge piece?
Great upgrades must try them !
Hofner Violin and Club basses look better without the pickguard in my estimation. This applies to German and Asian versions. Be that as it may you did a nice job here.
Is it possible to do anything about the white Hofner name plate like you did on the tuners?
Hi, do you mean aging the pickguard or control panel? Thats a tough one….if spraying it with clear agd stewmac lacquer its going to be inconsistant unless done carefully. Might be best to try staining it with a shoe polish. Dont try this if your going to eventually spray it. I usually buy yellowed pickguards and control panels. The ignition and hct basses use extremely white plastic. German plates are less brilliant. Thx, EJ
Nicely done ✅
You should check out the 61 and the 58 reissues!
Another great video EJ. After watching the video regarding the use of nails by Hofner I have a question. I have a 1966 and am missing the truss rod cover. The holes look like nails were used rather than screws to secure the cover. Any insight here?
Hi john, they should be screws not nails. Sorry for slow responce.
Nice job!
Great Job! Any thoughts on how to modify to work with the Genuine Hofner Beatle Bass Straps, is there way to mod the body behind neck?
I usually modify the strap so it works with the standard hofner strap button. No way to modify the body or neck. Thx!
Your two videos on upgrading the Chinese Hofner were a pleasure to watch. Thank you so much! I was about to get the German one, but now think it might be fun to try upgrading myself.
Can you give me info how much the original parts I'd have to order are in total? Hofner doesn't have prices on their webpage.
Best wishes, Chris
I would estimate the ignition bass to be about $400 plus about an additional $1000 depending on the level of upgrade you go for. This is a rough estimate as a guide plus this is if you do the work. I am not taking in work and just focusing on the youtube channel. Thx!
Hi. Very nice video. When you arr talking about the bridge, you said that you «brought them in slitly». How did you adjust it, if so?
I just bought a new Ignition and I was wondering if I could dye or stain the pearloid parts to look a little bit more yellowed or aged. BTW I love your channel.
Hugh Davis Hi, there is. In my early videos you will see it. Its actually a stewmac.com clear aged lacquor pen. Check it out in my early videos. Good luck!
The markers you used to age the plastic parts are the best. Thanks for showing how to do that. Also, for showing and explaining the process of replacing the tail. I have thought of changing out my Club HCT bass with a German tail. Would you know if it takes a short or long tail? That would make my bass mostly German where it counts. I'll keep the original HCT tuners I guess. Actually would like to replace those with 2 on a strip if they would fit the same spacing. Hmmm.
Loving these videos on all of your gear.
www.hofner-guitars.com/guitars-basses/spare-parts/tailpieces/bass-tailpiece-short-h62-31-s.html
Is it possible to change the color of the Hofner logo on the head to match the German made models? Wonderful channel!!! Looking forward to viewing your next video.
I think that would be difficult. EJ
@@BackbeatVintage I thought it might be.
I want to change the tuners to another style. Do you know the hole size for the ignition bass tuners? Thanks
Great Job but I have a suggestion. Could of been really easy to just drill a neck hole for the Reissue Pickguard front nail and drill a hole in the bridge to accommodate the back nail. The pick guard would of had the "Exact" look of German PG.
Hi, yup that was an option. Since they already drilled holes in the top of the body i just wanted to use them instead of filling them in.Maybe on the next one. Thanks for the suggestion.
Hello! I just bought a black Ignition bass and I'm feeling a little conflicted about it. I wonder if you can answer a couple questions for me? Mainly I want to know if I can modify it to have a more standard string spacing. I play fingerstyle 95% of the time. I imagine that would be a tough one to pull off tho... I may end up with something similar like the Allen Woody Rumblekat if I can't fix/get used to the spacing.
Anyway, I love the look of it, the pickups sound very nice and its comfy to play. The fit and finish of it is pretty shoddy when you compare it to a similarly priced guitar, but this is understandable because something like a P Bass is way less delicate and fiddly than one of these.
John Freda hi, try sliding the bridge four fret wires over or closer to change the string spacing. Then put a very small drop of clear super glue next to the fret in the slot.
@@BackbeatVintage thx! Do you have a recommendation for how to move them without damaging the bridge? Do I have to heat it up or something?
Very carefully tap on the side edge of the small piece of fret wire using a small screw driver and small hammer and it will slide over. Very, very light tap.
Outstanding work. Inspired by this, I've done most of the same upgrades to my Ignition. The last thing I still have to do is the pickguard. What kind of cross-cut pliers did you use? Is that a StewMac Fret Cutter?
Yes…exactly. Stewmac.
EJ , great video's
can you tell me what the truss rod nut size is on the ignition bass
Thanks
Bill
Hi William, i wish i could but i dont have access to it now. I kind of recall it being an allen wrench. So sorry! Thanks for watching. EJ
I don't think the broken part of the trapeze, would affect the strings,because Hofner have a guitar with the same trapeze but without that part!
Great work. Do you think the binding now needs ageing to match the rest as the binding now stands out white? If so, how would you do this?
Hi, i would use stewmacs item 7051 “Aged Clear Lacquer” in a marker pen and carefully go over the binding until it matched. Dont let the marker get to wet or it will drip. Thx!
Have you got any links to that aged clear lacquer pen please. Can’t find anywhere.
www.stewmac.com/luthier-tools-and-supplies/supplies/finishing-supplies/colortone-touch-up-marker
@@BackbeatVintage Thanks so much.
You really intrigued me with that antique aging marker. Do you think it would antique/yellow the extremely white ignition pickguard and control panel cover without having to install the original German hardware? I would love to see a video where you use that aging marker on the original pickguard to see how it turns out. Tubs of for this video. I’m going to see if I ever get the courage to do all of these mods to my ignition.
That is most likely too big of and area for that. They do sell it in a spray can. Havent done that yet. Thx
@backbeatvintage
Just out of curiosity.
Would it be possible to put a third Pickup on a Hoffner Violine Bass (ignition)?
-lile a mix between the cavern and the normal hofner-
And then mod the Controlplate-switch, turn on and off every pickup individually.
Would really like to know if such a thing is even feasible.
Much thanks
and great videos you but out.
Default Monkey hi, i’ve never done that but anthing is possible. Not sure what the advantage would be. The german cavern bass has completely different pickups. Not a staple type pickup. Its possible...
Does the aged clear lacquer work on the pickguard?
Hi, i havent tried it but it may flake off and look somewhat lumpy. Thx! EJ
@@BackbeatVintage thanks EJ! After hearing that, might not try it! Ha ha
PS. Love your videos!
Great video! I heard that Höfner did indeed screw the pickguards right into the body (just like here with the Ignition series) on the German 500/1 basses in the early 90s. Could that be true? Sacrilege, anyway...
Hi, Yes , i have seen a few like that. Thx!
Do you have a link or precise name for the German bridge you installed?
Hi, northcoast music...www.voxshowroom.com/northcoast/hofner/hofner_parts/hofner_tail.html
@@BackbeatVintage Thanks! That's where I bought the bridge from as well, but unfortunately the tailpiece is out of stock. I bought it here: reverb.com/item/33570685-genuine-hofner-tailpiece-h62-30-s-long-for-500-1-bass
Is that the correct one?
Hi, yes but you can find it cheaper than that. Thx!
Mr Backbeat where can I buy the pieces that you have used to upgrade the ignition? Is it a good bass if I just add these pieces on or should I buy a German one? Thank you for the video!
This is really cool. Did the german control plate fit the routing for the Chinese one nicely (i.e. can you still see the holes from the Chinese one)?
It does fit but requires some reshaping/bending to fit the contour of the body. The two new screw holes just fit as long as you use very small thin screws. On mine it did cover the corner screw holes. Thx. Ej
hey EJ! I have an ignition and I want to take off the pick guard. Do you think i should leave the holes or put the screws back in ? Thanks
I left the screw holes open on mine. Screws will make it look weird. Didn't affect the sound at all, and she looked beautiful without the pickguard.
About that tail piece, if you leave the part that screws onto the guitar at the back, and remove the rest ,will the other trapeze part hook onto the piece that still screws onto the guitar?
Hi, love the channel! I'm inspired to upgrade my '07 Icon B-bass. Luckily it has 250K pots, but I'm going flatwounds and teacups. My question is about the zero fret. What do you recommend? The problem is the 1.215 string spacing which is hard to match. Thanks!
In the original video on the channel i showed which zerofret kit to use. It worked out very nicely. Thx.
the block inside is only on the ignition? I thought the german like the ignition and CT model are 3 ply? According to the hofner video that is, so why does the ignition need a support block inside?
The ply body on the ignition bass must be thinner than the german ones,and that's why there's a block underneath!
Never seen it before, but is it possible to change the pickups on the ignition with the german ones, or would that just leave some huge holes?
Anything is possible but there is a size difference and really there is nothing wrong with these pickups. Also the contour of the bodies are different so the pickup mounts would have to be reshaped because you would need to use the german mounts from a 65 or later hofner. They are much larger too. Thanks!
Do you have a link where we can buy the vintage lacquer pen for tuners??
Or what is the name and brand?
Stewmac.com called clear aged lacquer pen. Use carefully. Less is more. Thx! EJ
Awesome video EJ. I really enjoyed it a lot. I Noticed that the Hofner 65 pickups are very similar to the ignition ones Do you think it is possible to install 65 Germán style pickups in a Hofner ignition body? Thank you
They look the same but the 65 pickups are much larger. Anything is possible but i dont think it would sound much different. Thx.
hi, i got the hofner club base ,i would like to change the nut with a stop frat ,i cant seem to find one on line.if you can please let me know where i can get one?thanx
E.J., I mentioned before that I have an Ignition, but a couple of years ago I walked into my local Guitar Center and hanging there was an Ignition but it's finish wasn't like the other very dark outer sunburst I'd seen on all the others but a lighter more violin sunburst as on the German models. I asked the kid working Guitar Center but, of course, he was clueless about it.I even emailed Hofner asking about that finish but got no reply. It was a much nicer, more authentic looking finish. Have you come across any Ignitions with a similar finish?
jltrem that was the Hofner Ignition “Ed Sullivan” limited edition bass. They made a very limited run of them.
@@ericthebluecollarpipesmoke3656 Thanks, Eric. Didn't know there was such a thing.
jltrem no problem!
Hey, I love your videos, they are super helpful! Thank you so much for those.
There‘s one more thing I’d love to see and that would be how to replicate the binding on the headstock. I was going to do that on my Ignition but I’m really not shure how I can do that. Do you think I can sand down the clear lacquer, put some vintage/aged white color on the edges around the headstock and then put clear lacquer back over it? Do you think that would work? Thanks again, keep the awesome videos coming!
Hi! Your bass is poly. I dont suggest doing this. Poly doesnt blend like lacquer.
Try using the aged lacquor pen i used in some of my video. Lightly scuff and then apply a thin swipe but be carefull not to let it run. Practice on something else first. Mask of neck just in case.
@@BackbeatVintage Hey, thanks that's good advice. I was going to get the pen for the tuning pegs anyway, so that's a pretty good idea actually 🙂 but first I'll try to replace the nut. I couldn't find a slotted one, so I have to file my own. Never done this before. Have you done this for any of your Hofners?
Your videos are great, I'm a fan. I don't know if this has been asked before, but what is your opinion on the Hofner HI-459-SB Ignition Series 6-string guitars? They are relatively more affordable (around $300-$500), but I am pretty sure they are manufactured in China. Would you possibly be interested in making a upgrade video of these guitars?
Is there a good source to find some of the German parts for the ignition bass?
I usually use north coast music. Google them online if your in the states. Thx
Is the German tailpiece the same length and size as the Ignition and the HTC model?
Hi, the german tailpieces vary in size too. Generally a german or contemporary will fit. Long or short. I think I used a v62, v63, v64 replacemnt tailpiece. Thx!
What product did you use to remove the "B-Bass Hi-Series" on the headstock?
Hi, i didnt remove that. I did remove the writing on the truss rod cover using 1000/1500 grit paper. Thx.
@@BackbeatVintage Thanks!
Hi there, is it a fine sandpaper you use to remove the writing on the truss rod cover? I have put tea cup knobs on but think removing the writing will make it look more authentic, great videos
@@beechclanger That's what I used to remove mine. Just take your time and be careful. When you look closely at mine, it does look a little bit scratched, but the writing is gone.
Weightless Films .thank you will do that👍
Hey, so is Paul McCartney’s höfner bass, that he used in the Beatles, and in live performances pick guard white, or beige?
I’m trying to this figure out, because I’m modding my hofner ignition so it looks like Paul’s , and I was wondering so I can ether paint the pick guard beige or just leave it white? What’s your idea?
Hi, the thing about the hofner pickguards is that the fake mother of pearl plastic used starts out white but as it gases out it yellows over time and gets a vintage look. I think if you paint it it might be vulnerable to scratching off. EJ
Backbeat Vintage, the thing is, I’m using a yellow marker and coloring the pick guard, and before it sticks I’m gonna grab a napkin to wipe it off so it has a yellow tint.
Hi I received my Ignition Bass a few days ago. I'm very surprised that the neck is very fat almost as fat as a six string guitar. Anyway is there any other way to age all the white plastic ??
Hello! I was wondering where you could get hofner pick guards? Im trying to find one thats more yellow and not that bright white
Thunder cloud Hi, i would try reverb.com or ebay. Also for new parts google north coast music hofner. Thx
@@BackbeatVintage thank you so much!!!! I love your videos they are great and fun to watch!
hello I have a question what is the radius neck of the bass hofner ignition?
My radius gauges are coming up with a 20
hello, i don't see what zero glide do you use, i'm looking for one and i don't see which model to choose. Can you help me? thanks a lot
You've probably already resolved this yourself a few months ago, but for others viewing this later, he showed that he used a ZS-18 in another video.
If you want to let it get old just have it for a long time
I just bought a brand new ignition the green one it's gorgeous and I'm planning on keeping it forever
Hi EJ, I really enjoy your channel being a Hofner fanatic myself. I have a question to ask you. I soldered a 62 plate into my 500/1 but now I have to turn the volume knobs counter clockwise to get some volume even though the plate is in the right way. Can you tell me what it is I might be doing wrong here? Greetings from The Netherlands! Paul
Paul Heinhuis Hi, it sure sound like something is connected backwards. Maybe at the output jack? Or see if some of the wires on the control unit are pushed down and shorting out. I had that issue with my vintage control plates with no shelding on the ground wires on the control plate. Is this a german, hct or ignition bass? Is the 62 plate vintage or a reissue?
@@BackbeatVintage Hi EJ. It's an vintage 62 original controlplate. I will check the wiring again but to the best of my knowledge everything is soldered correctly...I haven't got a clue.
Try reversing the pickup wires at the pot and see if the volume works correctly after doing that.
@@BackbeatVintage thanks EJ! I will try that!
@@BackbeatVintage No luck EJ.I reversed everything but still no change...best leave it like this I think. Thanks for your time and advice! Regards, Paul
Can I add strap lock button to neck heal on 62 Hofner beatle bass
Hi, yes . I would put in the back of the heal not on the side. Be sure to pre drill it. Thx. Ej
@@BackbeatVintage Is there a way to keep the bass from leaning away from the body with the strap button on the back of the heal?
Really fascinating 👍
Was surprised the Chinese picks ups were adequate, that’s quite heartening. However, I was wondering, are the Chinese pickups Alnico or Ceramic? Grass the German pups are Alnico ?
Again thanks for a great walk through on your work 😁
How much does it cost to get these parts? I might do this soon when I get my Hofner ignition
Hi, i would say about $100 bucks with strings tailpiece and a new bridge.
Português
Inglês
Congratulations on the great job! please add a caption, I'm from Brazil, and the experience for us would be much cooler! thank you so much!
It is such an attractive bass to begin with, but you really turned it into a gem. Look wise, the pickguard is definitely the one thing I'd change. The original feels cheap, it's not a clean cut, and it's too bright
I don't even know why but I'm so attracted to this bass. When I go to the store I always grab one and take it to their gig room. It's both toyish and so cool at the same time, I struggle to put it down and not take it home, because I don't need an extra bass. I do wonder how well it ages.
Are hollow bodies more prone to crack under normal, regular use, if they're made under asian quality standards?
Still. I'm one good sale or great second hand away from buying one.
Sounds like theres one in your future. I know the feeling….EJ
Do you recall the Brand of Strings on that Ignition ?
Hi! Thanks for reaching out. I used labella flats deep talking strings. Hope this helps. EJ
@@BackbeatVintage thank you !
I found that the middle screw draws you eyes to it, which is very annoying!
I got the Union Jack one
Can you do a video to see if 62’ tuners will fit on a 63’
Giovanni Elmer i dont have the tuners to try it and my 63’s have individual tuners. Sorry!
Backbeat Vintage ok thanks
So if i put a hofner tailpiece in my ignition it will work? :)
Yes. There are two length hofner tailpieces. Be sure to get the right one. I believe it is the shorter one like on the hofner club basses and used on the 500/1 from 65 on up until the mid 70’s. Check the video to be sure. I’m pretty sure I mentioned that. Thx!
I want to modify my ignition with my personal "liutaio"(I don't know how to say it in English xD, it's a guitar/bass engineer) I bought an original hofner zero fret, bridge, and upper plate, pickguard and control panel. Now to complete it I need the tailpiece and the mechanics.
Mr Backbeat ,,, great upgrades , looks amazing , but i just saw a video of a zero fret upgrade i think you should see the dude was very clever on how he did it , his youtube name is Notneb ,, check it out !!!!!!
Hi,can i put a german pickup on my ignition?
They are actually different sizes and the body contour is different. I wouldnt recommend it. But then again anything is possible.
@@BackbeatVintage but if I send that to the luthier it will be much better?
Are you gonna post anymore?
Giovanni Elmer Hi ! Yes i will soon. I have a nice 61 hofner I’ll be reviewing and adjusting.
how about knocking the shine down a bit on it next?
Kinda tough with poly. I dont sugest that. Thx.
The Beatle model of this bass I got in Germany as a kid in the 60's. It was a horrible bass.
When I got my Jazz Bass, my bass playing world was all ++.
A month is to long without a backbeat video.....
Soon! Hope u r well...
@@BackbeatVintage Yes I live on a farm in rural Vermont..no humans around..
Most word in this video... *German...*