1955 Hoyer Kontrabass, Upright bass 3/4 with Slappin’ B Gut strings – VERKAUFT!

Short Answer

A detailed look at a professional 1955 Hoyer 3/4 upright bass. This instrument is noted for its exceptional build quality, vintage provenance from the jazz scene, and its rich, full tonal characteristics.

Historical Provenance and Craftsmanship

The 1955 Hoyer Kontrabass is a distinguished example of mid-century German instrument making. Crafted by Max Hoyer in Taunusstein-Wehen, this 3/4 size upright bass represents a level of stability and quality that distinguishes it from modern mass-produced instruments. This specific instrument boasts a rich history, having been played by a professional jazz musician in various ensembles since the late 1950s.

In its later years, the bass was primarily utilized in a small studio environment, which helped preserve its condition. The instrument maintains a deep, glossy finish and shows only minimal signs of wear, limited to small lacquer scratches on the ribs and bottom.

Technical Specifications

The bass is constructed with a focus on durability and acoustic resonance. One of its defining aesthetic and structural features is the original white plastic binding, which remains firm and undamaged around the body.

Core Features

Feature Specification
Year of Construction Circa 1955
Build Type Sperrt (Laminated/Blocked)
Scale Length 106 / D-Scale
Fingerboard Rosewood with C-edge
Tailpiece Hardwood
Bridge Original Maple
Endpin Original, adjustable with new rubber foot
Tuning Machines Original Rubner

Performance and Playability

The instrument is characterized by its easy playability and a full, rich tone. Due to its versatility, it is suitable for a wide range of players, including:

  • Beginners: Providing a high-quality entry point into the upright bass.
  • Electric Bassists: An ideal transition instrument for those moving to acoustic double bass.
  • Advanced Players: Offering the stability and tone required for professional stage performance.

Stringing and Accessories

To enhance its sonic profile, the bass was equipped with Slappin’ B Gut strings in black. While the instrument is fundamentally original, options for pickup installations are available to accommodate amplified performance needs.

Condition Report

The instrument is in exceptional original condition. There are no open corpus areas, no fractures in the neck, and no evidence of previous major repairs. The deep gloss of the lacquer remains intact, reflecting its careful maintenance over the decades.

FAQ

Is the 1955 Hoyer bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, due to its easy playability and high build quality, it is recommended for beginners and those transitioning from electric bass.

What are the specific dimensions of this bass?

It is a 3/4 size bass with a 106 / D-Scale length.

Are there any repairs on the neck?

No, the instrument is completely original with no fractures or previous repairs to the neck.

References

  1. Manufacturer archives of Max Hoyer (Taunusstein-Wehen).
  2. Technical specifications for Rubner tuning mechanisms.

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