Hartke HYDRIVE HL112 1X12" SPEAKER 300W 8 OHMS

Historical Context and Positioning Within the Range

Hartke has built a strong identity in the bass amplification world with aluminum cone speakers, appreciated for their clear attack and definition. The HyDrive technology continues this lineage by offering a hybrid paper/aluminum approach: the goal is to maintain the precision and "snap" typical of Hartke while adding a more organic feel and a more "musical" foundation in the low-midrange. Within the lineup, the 1x12-inch format like this HyDrive HL112 clearly targets the modern bassist who wants a compact cabinet, easy to transport, without sacrificing presence or sound clarity.

Who This Amp Is For

The Hartke HyDrive HL112 is aimed at bassists from beginner to professional level looking for a versatile cabinet to power a bass amp head in rehearsal, studio, or small to medium venues. The 12-inch format is a balanced choice: fast enough for attack-heavy parts (funk, pop, modern rock), while retaining enough body for rounder grooves (soul, reggae, indie, vintage rock). It also works very well as a secondary cabinet in a modular stack, depending on the volume and projection needed.

Features and Innovations

Designed to focus on essentials, this cabinet emphasizes truly useful daily features. The connectivity offers a 6.35mm Jack input and a Speakon input, convenient for adapting to most bass amp heads and wiring setups. The built-in 1-inch tweeter adds definition for slap, harmonics, and articulation, with a 3-position switch (on / off / -6dB) that allows instant adjustment of brightness depending on the bass, strings, or room acoustics. Finally, the bass-reflex loading helps project and add depth in the low end while maintaining a compact size.

Sound Characteristics

The HyDrive HL112 stands out with a very "bassist-friendly" sonic signature: clean and tight lows, a present low-midrange to support the band, and a clear attack that facilitates rhythmic precision. The hybrid paper/aluminum cone combines two complementary sensations: aluminum provides precision and excellent definition in attacks, while paper contributes a warmer and more natural perception in the note body. The 1-inch tweeter allows access to a more open high-frequency spectrum (finger noise, slap snap, pick details), and its -6dB attenuation is ideal for taming highs without losing presence. The result: a cabinet that remains clear in a dense mix while retaining pleasant musicality when playing solo or recording.

Technical specifications

Category	Bass cabinet	Color	Black
Technology	Hybrid	Finishing	Black tolex
Speaker diameter	12"	Power output	300 W
Number of speakers	1

Speaker	12-inch HyDrive with hybrid technology	Cabinet	solid plywood
Magnet	neodymium	Loading type	bass-reflex
Cone	paper/aluminum	Finish	textured paint
Tweeter driver	1 inch	Protection	grille and corner guards
Tweeter switch	3 positions (on / off / -6dB)	Dimensions (mm)	406 (W) x 483 (D) x 381 (H)
Frequency response	35Hz to 17kHz	Weight	11.35 kg
Inputs	6.35mm Jack and Speakon