Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special Blue

Overview and Construction

The Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special Blu combines semi-hollow design with contemporary features in a guitar built to appeal to those seeking both vintage charm and modern playability. Priced at $679, this Höfner model uses a maple construction for its body, top, and neck, paired with a jatoba fingerboard. The instrument is distinguished visually by its transparent blue finish and distinctive batwing sound holes.

Body and Build Quality

• Body Material: Maple
• Top Material: Maple
• Soundblock: Spruce
• Design: Semi-hollow with batwing sound holes

The Verythin CT Deluxe Special Blu's double maple construction gives it a robust character while the spruce soundblock inside the body is designed to reduce feedback and reinforce sustain. The semi-hollow configuration, with a solid tonewood block running through the center, aims to offer the warmth and resonance associated with hollow guitars but with added feedback resistance for louder playing environments. The batwing sound holes are a signature Höfner aesthetic touch, setting this instrument apart from more traditional f-hole designs.

Neck, Fretboard, and Playability

• Neck Material: Maple
• Fingerboard Material: Jatoba
• Number of Frets: 22
• Scale Length: 24.72 inches (628 mm)
• Nut Width: 1.69 inches (43 mm)
• Neck Profile: Slendaneck
• Inlays: Dot

The maple neck is matched with a jatoba fingerboard, a dense and stable wood often compared to rosewood for its tactile qualities, though generally brighter in tone. The neck profile is designated as 'Slendaneck,' indicating a thinner, faster neck shape that favors players with a preference for speed or those with smaller hands. The 22-fret layout and moderate scale length (at just under 25 inches) contribute to a playing feel balanced between classic and modern semi-hollow guitars. The nut width of 43mm offers comfortable string spacing, supporting both chordal and lead work.

Electronics and Controls

• Pickups: One neck-position P90, one bridge-position Vintage Voice humbucker
• Controls: One master volume, two tone controls, three-way selector switch

The pickup configuration combines the articulation and midrange push of a single-coil P90 in the neck with the rounder, fatter tones of a vintage-style humbucker in the bridge. This hybrid setup widens the available tonal spectrum: the P90 is ideal for both cleans and bluesy overdrive, while the humbucker lends itself to warmer jazz, rock, or classic pop sounds. The three-way switch allows for neck, bridge, or both pickups to be selected, with individual tone controls offering further sound shaping. Unlike some semi-hollow counterparts, the Verythin CT Deluxe Special Blu is not fitted with a vibrato (tremolo) system, focusing instead on tuning stability and traditional fixed-bridge sustain.

Finish and Hardware Details

• Finish: Transparent Blue
• Hardware: Not specified (typical in this segment would be standard chrome hardware)
• Case or Bag: Not included

The transparent blue finish on maple allows the natural grain to be seen, giving visual depth and a distinct personality to the instrument. The lack of included case or gig bag may be a consideration for players who transport their instrument frequently. No indication of upgraded hardware or specialist bridge or tuning machines is provided, which is consistent with other guitars in this segment.

Technical and Practical Observations

• Semi-hollow design with center soundblock reduces feedback; suited for both live and studio use
• Hybrid pickup selection; versatile output from jazz to pop to blues and light rock
• Slender neck may appeal to fast players or those preferring a more compact grip
• 22-fret, moderate scale length bridges vintage feel and modern access
• No tremolo system simplifies maintenance, less expressive than Bigsby-equipped models

Conclusion

The Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special Blu, with its semi-hollow structure, transparent blue finish, hybrid pickup set, and slim neck profile, offers an appealing set of features for players who value classic looks blended with versatility and comfort. The construction, with all-maple body and neck and jatoba fingerboard, is aimed at maximizing stability, clarity, and resonance, while the spruce soundblock enhances feedback resistance for stage use. The omission of a tremolo system and included case keeps the price competitive but may require additional investment for transportation and hardware upgrades.

As a mid-priced semi-hollow electric guitar from a respected European maker, the Verythin CT Deluxe Special Blu stands out for its distinctive design and flexible electronics. Its construction details and pickup choices make it a serious competitor for guitarists looking for a visually unique instrument that covers a broad sonic territory without sacrificing comfort or playability.