Hartke KICKBACK 15 BASS COMBO 1X15" 250W
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Information
Information
Manufacturer Information
Hartke
https://www.hartke.com
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Safety manager:
Mogar Music France
Email: info@mogarmusic.fr
Address:
Historical Context and Positioning in the Range
Hartke made its name with aluminum cone speakers and then the hybrid HyDrive (paper + aluminum), combining warmth and attack. The Kickback series modernizes the tilted combo concept, here with lightweight Class D amplification. The KB15 is the largest 1x15-inch model in the family (alongside the KB10 and KB12), designed to offer more low-end foundation without sacrificing portability.
Who This Amp Is For
The KB15 suits both progressing bassists and seasoned musicians looking for a reliable combo for rehearsals, home studio, and small to medium-sized stages. Its dynamic headroom and projection make it relevant for rock, funk, pop, or metal, while remaining precise enough for modern jazz and contexts where a clear bass presence in the mix is desired.
Features and Innovations
A single clean channel emphasizes playing responsiveness. The 3-band EQ (bass, mid, treble) is supported by the Shape control which sweeps a dedicated midrange band to scoop or highlight your instrument's character. The cabinet can be positioned upright or in "kickback" mode to direct the sound towards your ears. Practical features include a passive/active bass input via 6.35mm Jack, XLR DI output for front-of-house or recording, 6.35mm Jack headphone output for silent practice, perforated steel grille, and molded handle for transport.
Sound
Featuring Class D transistor amplification with a hybrid HyDrive speaker, the KB15 combines ample, rounded lows (paper cone) with precise, singing attack in the mids (aluminum cone). It delivers a firm clean tone with plenty of headroom, natural crunch when pushed, and a fast response ideal for slap and fingerstyle playing. The tilted position enhances detail perception without artificially boosting the low end. In the same series, bassist TOKIE has been seen using a KB12, illustrating the "clear yet punchy" aesthetic associated with Kickback.
Technical specifications
| Category | Bass combo |
| Technology | Solid state |
| Category | Amplifier |
| Number of channels | 1 |
| Speaker diameter | 15" |
| Number of speakers | 1 |
| EQ | 3 channels |
| Headphone output | Jack 6.35, Yes |
| Color | Black |
| Finishing | Black tolex |
| Power output | 250 W |
| Rated power | 500 W peak / 250 W RMS |
| Amplifier type | High-efficiency Class D |
| Total harmonic distortion | 0.54% (1 dB below rated power, 1 kHz typical) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 49.3 dBu at 1 W (1 Wrms @ 1 kHz) |
| Nominal input level | 77.46 mVrms (@ 1 kHz) |
| Signal gain to speaker | 37.1 Vrms |
| Signal gain to direct output | 4.2 Vrms |
| Configuration | 1 x 15-inch HyDrive paper/aluminum hybrid |
| Magnet | Neodymium (lightweight, high sensitivity) |
| 2-position enclosure | vertical or tilted "kickback" |
| Bass | 70 Hz |
| Midrange | 700 Hz |
| Treble | 5 kHz |
| Shape control | sweep from 100 Hz to 900 Hz |
| Passive/active bass input | 6.35mm Jack |
| Direct output | XLR (for console/recording) |
| Dimensions | 425 x 446 x 540 mm (approx. 16.73 x 17.55 x 21.25 inches) |
| Weight | 16.2 kg |
Questions frequently asked
Is the Hartke Kickback 15 powerful enough for rehearsals and small gigs?
With 250 W RMS and 500 W peak, this combo amp is designed for rehearsals and small to medium-sized venues. Its 15-inch HyDrive speaker provides a solid low-end foundation.
Can an active bass be plugged into this combo?
The 6.35 mm jack input accepts both passive and active basses.
What connections are available for stage and headphones?
A direct XLR output allows connection to a mixer or recording system. The 6.35 mm headphone output enables silent practice.
How does the kickback position of the combo work?
The cabinet can be placed vertically or tilted in a kickback position. This angle directs the speaker towards the ears and improves the perception of mids and highs.
What tone controls does the Hartke Kickback 15 offer?
The 3-band EQ adjusts lows at 70 Hz, mids at 700 Hz, and highs at 5 kHz. The Shape control sweeps from 100 to 900 Hz to scoop or boost the midrange area. The HyDrive speaker combines paper and aluminum cones to merge warm lows with precise attack.
