Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $573
Standard/Professional
$200
$701+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Hartke KB12 Kickback 500W 1x12" Bass Combo". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Hartke KB12 Kickback 500W 1x12" Bass Combo is your ultimate companion, whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or laying it down hard on stage. This amp revitalizes the classic Hartke Kickback with a potent 500-watt Class D power amp and a pioneering 12" HyDrive speaker, blending paper and aluminum for a sonic punch that’s both warm and precise. Its design is intentionally compact for easy transport, yet robust enough to deliver the legendary Hartke tone that professionals crave.
The KB12's innovative "kickback" feature lets you tilt the amp back 45 degrees, so you can hear your tone as the audience does, ensuring your midrange and high-end frequencies are spot-on. The HyDrive speaker's patented cone technology further enhances your sound with a distinctive blend of warmth and attack, while its lightweight neodymium magnets keep your rig portable without sacrificing sound quality.
Tone shaping is effortlessly versatile with the KB12’s 3-band EQ and exclusive variable "Shape" circuit, providing a broad range of tonal possibilities at your fingertips. Whether you need a bass boost or a midrange clarity for a specific gig, the Shape control has got you covered. Plus, practice sessions are a breeze with the silent headphone output, and live performances are a cinch with the balanced XLR direct output.
Key Features:
- 500-watt Class D power amplifier (250W RMS)
- 12" HyDrive speaker with paper/aluminum hybrid cone
- Two-way cabinet design for upright or 45-degree tilt-back positioning
- 3-band EQ with variable Shape control (100Hz-900Hz)
- Lightweight design with neodymium magnets
- Balanced XLR output for direct connection to mixers
- 1/4" headphone output for silent practice
- Molded strap carry handle for easy portability
Product specs
| Type | Solid State |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Output Power | 250W RMS, 500W Peak |
| Speakers | 1 x 12" |
| EQ | 3-band EQ |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" (internal speaker), 1 x XLR (direct out) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" |
| Cooling System | Internal Fan, Rear Air Vent |
| Power Source | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Height | 18.14" |
| Width | 14.75" |
| Depth | 15.7" |
| Weight | 28.2 lbs. |
FAQs
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How much power does the Hartke KB12 Kickback Bass Combo produce?
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The Hartke KB12 Kickback Bass Combo delivers 250 watts RMS and can peak at 500 watts, providing ample power for rehearsals and small to medium-sized gigs.
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What type of speaker does the Hartke KB12 Kickback use?
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This combo amp features a 12-inch HyDrive speaker, which combines paper and aluminum for a balanced and articulate bass response.
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Does the Hartke KB12 Kickback have a direct output for recording or PA systems?
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Yes, the Hartke KB12 Kickback includes an XLR direct output, allowing you to easily connect to recording devices or PA systems for direct sound capture.
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Is the Hartke KB12 Kickback suitable for practicing with headphones?
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Absolutely, it has a 1/4" headphone output, enabling silent practice sessions without disturbing others.
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What are the main tone-shaping controls on the Hartke KB12 Kickback?
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The amp includes a 3-band EQ and a shape control, allowing you to dial in a wide range of bass tones to suit your style.
Videos
Sweetwater
Hartke KB12 Kickback 1x12" Bass Combo Demo with Victor Wooten
Reviews
PROS
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Lightweight and portable, ideal for small gigs and practice
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Kickback design improves stage monitoring
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Wide range of tones with simple controls
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Surprisingly loud for its size, suitable for small to medium venues
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Durable construction with road-worthy features
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Built-in DI for easy connection to PA systems
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Responsive and punchy 12" speaker, handles low B on 5-string basses well
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Parametric EQ feature for shaping midrange tone
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Easy to use, even for those not tech-savvy
CONS
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Advertised wattage may be misleading; actual output perceived as lower
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Loud fan noise can be annoying in quiet settings
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Lacks built-in distortion, limiting some playing styles
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hartke KB12 Kickback 500W 1x12" Bass Combo.
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
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Suitable for low-volume gigs, but not recommended for metal bands due to insufficient speaker area; a larger cab with multiple drivers is advised.
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The Hartke KB12 works well in smaller venues with a quieter band setup, making it suitable for intimate gigs and small bar performances.
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For gigging in small bars with a "hot" pickup output like quarter pounders or Stingray humbuckers, the Hartke KB12 is a viable choice.
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Comparisons
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Suggested alternatives include the TC BG-250 for gigs up to 200 people and the GK MB212 for its dual 12" speakers.
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The Ampeg BA210 offers good volume and can take an extension cab, suitable for everyday use in various settings.
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The Hartke KB12 is recommended for quieter settings, while the Ampeg RB-210 is better suited for louder gigs with its 500 watts and 2x10" configuration.
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User experience
Value and pricing
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Though priced at $500, stretching the budget slightly could yield more suitable options like the Fender Rumble 500 for hard rock and metal.
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A used Phil Jones Cub 100, with its 2x5" speakers, is highlighted as a practical, lightweight alternative for small rehearsals.
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Within a $400 budget, the Hartke KB12 and Fender Rumble 100 are highlighted as good starting points for small venue performances.
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Critic Reviews
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Artist usage
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