Höfner Guitars

Brand Heritage and Origins

Höfner (Karl Höfner GmbH & Co. KG) is one of Germany's most historic and renowned musical instrument manufacturers. Founded in 1887 by luthier Karl Höfner in Schönbach (now Luby, Czech Republic), the company originally specialized in violins and other orchestral string instruments. Following the post-World War II expulsions, the company relocated to Bubenreuth in Bavaria, West Germany, and later established manufacturing facilities in Baiersdorf.

Höfner achieved worldwide fame during the rock 'n' roll era, particularly after Paul McCartney bought and performed with a Höfner 500/1 Violin Bass in the early 1960s with The Beatles, making the 'Beatle Bass' an iconic emblem in popular music history.

Manufacturing and Global Production

Höfner retains a dual production strategy. Handcrafted, high-end master instruments—including the flagship German-made 500/1 violin basses and boutique acoustic/electric guitars—continue to be built by skilled luthiers at Höfner's workshop in Baiersdorf, Germany. To make instruments accessible to a broader market, Höfner's Contemporary (HCT) and Ignition series are manufactured under strict quality standards in partner facilities in China and Indonesia.

Ownership Structure

After being part of the Boosey & Hawkes musical instrument group in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Höfner was acquired in 2004 by the German music industry management led by Klaus Schöller. Today, Karl Höfner GmbH & Co. KG operates as an independent, privately held German manufacturing company headquartered in Baiersdorf, Bavaria.