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Hartke LX8500 800-Watt Bass Amp Head

Hartke LX8500 800-Watt Bass Amp Head

$849.99 Price Tier: High-end

3 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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4.0 (7)

$849.99

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3.7 (10)

$849.99

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$849.99 18 available New

$792.22 1 available Used

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5.0 (2)

$849.99

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Average Price: $838

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

Price Tier

In the Bass Amplifier Heads category, Hartke LX8500 800-Watt Bass Amp Head is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Hartke LX8500 800-Watt Bass Amp Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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For the bassist who demands power and precision, the Hartke LX8500 800-Watt Bass Amp Head is a game-changer. This compact powerhouse combines 800 watts of continuous power with Hartke’s signature tonal craftsmanship, making it an exceptional choice for both stage and studio. The LX8500 boasts a hybrid design, featuring a classic 12AX7 tube preamp coupled with a Class D output, delivering a rich, dynamic sound with the warmth and character that only a tube can provide.

Designed with versatility in mind, the Hartke LX8500 is equipped with a comprehensive Tone Stack EQ. This allows for precise tone-shaping with Bass, Treble, and variable midrange controls. Further refine your sound with the "Brite" button, which amplifies those sparkling high frequencies, and the Drive control, which adds a customizable layer of harmonic distortion from subtle grit to full-on fuzz.

Weighing a mere 8.5 pounds, this amp head is easy to transport, yet does not compromise on professional connectivity options. You'll appreciate the XLR direct out for seamless integration into PA systems or recording setups, along with silent practice capabilities via the headphone jack. The LX8500 also includes an auxiliary input for jamming along with your favorite tracks and dual footswitch jacks for real-time control over your sound during performances.

Key Features:

800 watts of continuous power at 4 ohms
Hybrid design with 12AX7 tube preamp and Class D output
Tone Stack EQ with Bass, Treble, and midrange controls
"Brite" button for enhanced treble presence
Drive and Compressor controls for dynamic sound shaping
Lightweight at only 8.5 pounds
XLR direct out with pre/post EQ switch
1/8-inch aux input and headphone output for practice and playback
Dual TRS footswitch jacks for controlling Drive, Effects Loop, Brite, and Frequency settings

Product specs

Type	Hybrid
Number of Channels	Single Channel
Output Power	800W Class D
Compression	Yes
EQ	Tone Stack Bass, Treble, Shape, Frequency
Preamp Tubes	1 x 12AX7
Inputs	1 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8" (aux)
Outputs	1 x SpeakON, 1 x XLR (direct out), 2 x 1/4" (tuner, speaker)
Headphones	1 x 1/8"
Effects Loop	Yes
Footswitch I/O	2 x 1/4" (Drive/FX, Brite/Frequency)
Footswitch Included	No
Cooling System	Internal Fan, Side Air Vents
Power Source	Standard IEC AC cable
Height	3"
Width	14"
Depth	12"
Weight	8.5 lbs.

FAQs

What type of preamp tubes does the Hartke LX8500 use?: The Hartke LX8500 features a single 12AX7 tube in its preamp section, offering a warm and dynamic tone characteristic of tube amplification.
Is the Hartke LX8500 suitable for live performances with a drummer?: Yes, the Hartke LX8500 provides 800 watts of Class D power, making it more than capable of handling live performances alongside a drummer.
Does the Hartke LX8500 have an effects loop?: Yes, the Hartke LX8500 includes an effects loop, allowing you to integrate external effects processors into your signal chain.
Can the Hartke LX8500 be used with headphones for silent practice?: Yes, the Hartke LX8500 is equipped with a 1/8" headphone output, making it suitable for silent practice sessions.
What are the main connectivity options on the Hartke LX8500?: The Hartke LX8500 offers a variety of connectivity options, including a SpeakON output, XLR direct out, 1/4" speaker outputs, and a 1/4" tuner output.

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Reviews

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PROS

Lightweight design at only 8 lbs, ideal for frequent gigging
Offers 800 watts of power with significant headroom
Versatile EQ settings, including dual mid controls, for customizable tones
Includes a drive section for adding distortion to solos
Produces classic Hartke sound with added warmth from the preamp tube
Excellent for rock gigs and adaptable for various music styles
Compact size makes it a great backup amp option
Compression feature is subtle but effective
Easy-to-understand controls with plenty of tonal possibilities

CONS

Built-in fan is loud, not ideal for quiet settings like jazz gigs or studio sessions
Some users report issues with crackling distortion after limited use
Initial dialing of desired tone may take some time

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hartke LX8500 800-Watt Bass Amp Head.

Comparisons

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The Hartke LX8500 is frequently compared to the Ampeg PF800 and GK Legacy 800, with users debating the tonal characteristics and reliability of each.
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The HyDrive HD410 is approximately $200 more expensive than the 410 XL V2, indicating a potential difference in sound quality or speaker technology.
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Hartke cabs are noted for having a more clean and flat sound compared to the dirty, gnarly tones of Orange setups.
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Use cases and applications

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The Hartke LX8500 is being considered by those needing more headroom for five-string basses, implying it handles low frequencies better than some competitors.
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Users transitioning from a 100W amp, such as the Orange Crush 100, find the LX8500's power suitable for metal bands with loud drummers.
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Features and functionality

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Users note the ability of the Hartke LX8500 to handle the low B string effectively, a crucial factor for those playing extended-range basses.
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The Hartke LX8500 can benefit from pairing with either the HyDrive HD410 or 410 XL V2 cabs, with the former offering newer speaker designs.
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For full power utilization, a 4 Ohm cab or two 8 Ohm cabs are needed to achieve the amp's 800W output.
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Setup and maintenance

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A weak preamp tube can cause significant volume loss; replacing the 12AX7 preamp tube is a common remedy for restoring power.
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If a new tube doesn't resolve power issues, it may indicate a problem in the power amp section, requiring professional repair.
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Mods and upgrades

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Replacement 12AX7 preamp tubes can cost as little as $25-30, providing an affordable solution to potential power issues.
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User experience

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Previous owner habits, like leaving the amp on continuously, might lead to premature tube wear, affecting performance.
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Critic Reviews

Hartke LX8500 review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Hartke's LX8500 bass amp head packs a punch with its 800 watts of power and impressive feature set. Favored for its versatility, it caters to a wide range of players, whether for practice or performance. The Class A tube preamp delivers a warm, organic tone, and the EQ provides ample control, though it may require some tweaking to get just right. The onboard compressor and drive add further depth to its capabilities. While it's slightly larger than expected, its lightweight build keeps it portable. Overall, this amp head is a powerhouse offering great value for its price, making it a strong contender for bassists seeking reliability and power.

positive

Full Review

Hartke LX8500 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Hartke's LX8500 Bass Amp Head strikes a harmonious balance between power and portability. Weighing just 3.85kg, it packs an 800-watt punch with a valve-driven preamp, making it a gigging pro's dream. The EQ offers expansive tone control, enhanced by a Brite switch for added clarity. Its compact design doesn't skimp on features, boasting a robust build with a user-friendly interface. While the price may raise eyebrows, the amp's versatility and quality justify the investment. A great choice for both gigs and home practice, the LX8500 is a powerhouse in a lightweight package.

positive

Full Review