Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $750
High-end/Boutique
$200
$701+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Hartke Kickback KB15". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Meet the Hartke Kickback 15 120 Watt 1x15" Bass Combo Amp, a powerful yet compact stage amp that is a game-changer for both live performances and late-night practice sessions. This amp is designed to give you an accurate representation of your stage tone, thanks to its unique kickback design that allows it to rock back 45 degrees, projecting sound directly to your ears.
The Hartke Kickback features a 15" HyDrive paper/aluminum speaker that provides a perfect blend of warmth and transient attack that traditional all-paper bass speakers can't match. This is all powered by a 500-watt Class D power amp that delivers a heavy punch, while still being portable enough for the gigging musician.
The Kickback's preamp is designed to give you full control over your tone. It features a 3-band EQ and a sweepable Shape Control which, when engaged, dramatically alters the frequency range, enabling you to quickly dial in your preferred sound. Moreover, it's equipped with a balanced XLR output for seamless connection to a soundboard or recorder.
For those late-night practice sessions, the Kickback has a silent headphone amp, ensuring you can hone your skills without disturbing your neighbors.
Key Features:
- Kickback design that allows sound projection on axis or tipped back at a 45-degree angle
- 15" HyDrive paper/aluminum speaker with a rare earth neodymium magnet for deep lows and midrange bite
- 500W peak/250W RMS for powerful stage amplification
- Compact plywood cab and Class D amplifier reduce weight for portability
- 3-band EQ and sweepable Shape control to quickly dial in tones
- Balanced XLR output for sending a stage signal straight to a soundboard or recorder
- Silent headphone amp for late-night practice
- 1/4" speaker output (4 Ohms)
Owner's manual
Hartke Kickback KB15 User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Solid State |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Output Power | 250W RMS, 500W Peak |
| Speakers | 1 x 15" Paper/Aluminum cone speaker |
| EQ | 3-band EQ, Shape control |
| 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 | 21.25" |
| Width | 17.55" |
| Depth | 16.73" |
| Weight | 35.6 lbs. |
FAQs
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What kind of music genres are best suited for the Hartke Kickback KB15?
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The Hartke Kickback KB15 is versatile and well-suited for a variety of genres, especially rock, funk, and jazz, thanks to its powerful 15-inch speaker and shape control for tonal flexibility.
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Is the Hartke Kickback KB15 loud enough for live performances with a full band?
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Yes, with 250W RMS and 500W peak power, the Hartke Kickback KB15 provides ample volume for live performances, even in larger venues.
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Does the Hartke Kickback KB15 work well with effects pedals?
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The Hartke Kickback KB15 handles effects pedals effectively, making it a good choice for bassists who incorporate various effects into their setup.
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What are the connectivity options on the Hartke Kickback KB15?
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The Hartke Kickback KB15 features a 1/4" input, a 1/4" output for internal speakers, an XLR direct out for PA systems, and a 1/4" headphone jack for silent practice.
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How portable is the Hartke Kickback KB15 for gigging musicians?
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Weighing 35.6 lbs and featuring a compact design, the Hartke Kickback KB15 is relatively easy to transport, making it suitable for gigging musicians.
Videos
GAK
Hartke Kickback KB15 Bass Combo Demo at Gak
Reviews
PROS
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Fits in small spaces, ideal for limited room
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15" speaker delivers clear low notes without distortion
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Lightweight and portable for easy transport
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Balanced XLR direct out for convenient connectivity
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Simple controls, focusing on sound quality over features
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Strong build quality ensures durability
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Suitable for both practice and smaller venues
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Excellent volume for its size, can keep up with a full band
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Kickback feature adds versatility in sound projection
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Very good tone across different bass guitars
CONS
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Lacks auxiliary input and headphone jack for private practice
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Minimal controls may limit tone customization for some users
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No tweeter, which might affect higher frequency clarity for some styles
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hartke Kickback KB15.
Features and functionality
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The amp's kickback design is praised for effective on-stage monitoring, enhancing its utility beyond typical practice scenarios.
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The KB15's internal speaker is often rated at 6 ohms, while the amp output typically lists 4 ohms minimum, indicating some variations or potential mismatches in older models.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
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Owners appreciate the lightweight design, highlighting it as ideal for musicians who frequently move their gear.
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Several users report transitioning to Hartke's more powerful setups after positive experiences with the KB15, indicating brand loyalty and satisfaction.
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Older KB15 models may have less competent amplifiers, which could affect performance when driving speakers with lower impedance.
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While the amp is lightweight, some users stress the importance of considering wattage and speaker size for sufficient headroom during gigs.
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Setup and maintenance
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Users recommend confirming the speaker's reference number with Hartke Service to ensure the speaker's originality and compatibility with the amp.
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Other
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Impedance varies with frequency; a 6 ohm speaker in an 8 ohm-rated amp is generally acceptable for moderate volumes without risking damage.
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Comparisons
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Owners compare the Hartke KB15 to the KB12, noting the KB15's higher price but suggesting the KB12 as a budget-friendly alternative with similar quality.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 6 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this NPR Tiny Desk Concert performance of Death Cab for Cutie, Nick plays throughout the video into a Hartke Kickback amplifier.
Album Usage
The Hartke Kickback KB15 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Hartke Kickback KB15, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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