Hartke Kickback 12 Bass Combo Amplifier (120 Watts, 1x12")

The Hartke Kickback 12 provides awesome, portable bass tone. With 120 watts in a compact frame, the Hartke Kickback 12 is a gigging bassist's dream.

Overall User Ratings (based on 93 ratings)
  • Overall:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Sound:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Features:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Ease of Use:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Quality:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Value:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Manufacturer Support:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • The Wow Factor:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(93) (see rating details)
Submitted February 18, 2005 by a customer from aol.com

"Great sounding bass amp, well made, easy to move around, priced right, and great factory support if you need it. At least that's"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I did a lot of homework when looking for another amp for smaller venues and I feel right now Hartke was the best and most sensible choice to make. Some of my decision making was based on these kind of reviews from actual customers. Most of them were very pleased with their Hartke purchases. When picking a new amp, price wasn't that much of an issue for me. I could of gotten the larger Hartke model with a 15 inch speaker -but most people seemed to think that it was neccessary to- so I got the 12 inch speaker model and it still sounds great. A little bit lighter to carry too which is nice than the larger model. Fits in the backseat of a car and you don't need a van to move your equipment around which is neat. The 12 inch sidekick amp has plaenty of balls and the titlt back design is something new to me which is a great idea! You'll like this amp a lot.
Sound
Very puchy and clear sound when you want it, and yet by adjusting the tone controls on the amp you can creat the older types of bass sounds such as you might get from an old Fender Bassman amp, or say an old Ampeg amp. You can easily get a wide range of tones. Its amazing how much sound comes from only one 12 inch speaker!
Features
Features are quite good. I wish though that they would have included an extra speaker jack on the rear of the amp for adding another speaker cabinet if you wanted.
Quality
Mine came perfect right out of the factory carton. Solid and built like a rock, yet very light weight, (about 42 lb). No problems here.
Value
Seemed like a good value to me after comparing other brands and prices. There are cheaper amps out there-but you get what you pay for I guess...
Manufacturer Support
I wrote to Hartke about a minor problem with an exsisting speaker cabinet that I perviously bought and got a personal letter from the president of Hartke who dealt with my problem in a very fast and profesional way. The support was great! He couldn't of been nicer and interested in pleasing me as a customer, and then even sent me a Hartke T shirt and free bass strings. I was blown away by their efforts!
The Wow Factor
Looks good to me -basic black. I'm not a real fan of colored vinyl amps that are done in colors like maroon or purple and what not. I want an amp to look like an amp- not like vinyl seats in a 50's Cadilac.

Musical Background:

Active Musician

Musical Style:

Rock, Blues, and Folk player
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Submitted May 18, 2011 by a customer from netmaille.com

"Kickback Really Kicksb***!"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
I've been trying to replace it at any cost and can't. Now if I need more volume for a large gig I just daisy chain a couple together.
Sound
Great little combo that has a very full frequency response. I play 4 string bass and it all comes through with no booming or absent frequencies. At VERY high volumes, the mids get a bit punchy, but it always keeps up and cuts through the mix.
Features
Simple intuitive controls and reliable components.
Ease of Use
The shape control offers a wealth of options for tone control but you may need a bit of experience to use it to your advantage.
Quality
I have been kicking around a few of these kickbacks for 20 years with no reliability issues. One is constantly rolling around in the trunk of my car and I depend upon it to perform every time I plug it in.
Value
Pay little, play a lot and just enjoy. It's a no brainer and using this amp simplifies many situations. Go into the board or just practice with it in your studio. Use it as a monitor on stage.
Manufacturer Support
Pick up the phone and call. You may be surprised to find Larry Hartke himself answering your call. He is quite the gentleman and very knowledgeable in the design and use of bass amplifiers. His personal support and courtesy know no bounds.
The Wow Factor
It's just a really smart design.

Musical Background:

Active Musician

Musical Style:

Rock/Blues/Alternative/Jazz
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Submitted February 1, 2007 by a customer from aol.com

"I played Peavey for years until..."

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I intend to play this little baby until she won't play any more...and when that day comes, I'll replace her with another Hartke.
Sound
Sound quality is excellent, even when using my 5-string. The 12-in cone has plenty of bottom and doesn't lose anything when playing the low B
Features
This amp is easy to equalize. Can't say anything negative about it.
Ease of Use
Like the features, this unit is a breeze to equalize. Finding a suitable tone is simple, and the variety of sounds is also a real plus.
Quality
You can tell right away that this thing is built like a tank. There's nothing "cheap" about it. And the wedge design can't be beat.
Value
I've had mine for 4 years and it still kicks like it was brand new. Considering I play several times a week, I can definitely say I've already gotten more than my money's worth out of it.
Manufacturer Support
Actually, I haven't had to call on them for anything...the unit has been flawless.
The Wow Factor
The shape, design, and that signature aluminum cone makes it distinquishable from a distance. Artists know what you are playing with just a glance. And of course, they can also tell by that sound.

Musical Background:

hobbyist

Musical Style:

Christian/Country
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Submitted April 2, 2012 by Chris Woodall in White Hall, MD

"Hartke Kickback 12 Bass Combo Amplifier "

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I bought this amp for the bass player in our praise and worship team at church as a surprise gift. He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw it in church. The amp has a great look to it and really sounds great with a lot of punch for a 12" speaker. He really likes the tilt back design and that it isn't too heavy. We used it in a small restaurant this past weekend with our group and it sounded great there too. Would buy another for sure.

Musical Background:

Church Musician for 6 years and have played drums and guitar for over 12 years

Musical Style:

Christian
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Submitted January 11, 2012 by a customer from yahoo.com

"If you like the sound of Harke, you won't regret buying this combo. It makes me smile every time I play on it."

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
The only thing I can imagine instead of this product is a nice head with a Hartke 2x10 or 4x10 cabinet, but at this time I don't really need anything that powerfull.
Sound
I absolutely love the sound of this unit. I'm playing a inexpensive Yamaha 4 string with passive P pickups and Ernie Ball Slinky strings. My bass guitar sounded very sub par out of the box on an old Peavey system and with the factory strings, but with the Harke combo and Slilnky strings it sounds excellent. Both the strings and the combo contributed significantly to the improvement.
Features
Well built. The only improvement that I can think of is that it would be nice if Harke modified the ventilation in the top of the unit so a drink couldn't accidentally get spilled into it. This hasn't happened on mine, but I could see it possibly happening at a party.
Ease of Use
I like how simple the controls are. Hit a few notes, tweek a few knobs and your ready to jam.
Quality
I've had mine for 2 years with no problems.
Value
If you like the sound of Harke's 4x10 cabinet, but you want something a little less expensive and more portable, you can't beat this combo.
Manufacturer Support
Never had to call them.
The Wow Factor
I wish I had the money to buy one of these when I was college.
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Submitted July 23, 2009 by a customer from charter.net

"Tub Thumper"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I use this amp for small venues and it really provides a full, deep sound.
Sound
Great sound from a small, fairly light amp.
Features
Had everything I needed
Value
Great sound for the price.
Manufacturer Support
Not needing any support is a good thing in my book.
The Wow Factor
I wanted it so much I got it!

Musical Background:

active musician

Musical Style:

blues, folk, rock
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Submitted March 5, 2004 by a customer from juno.com

"Keyboard players Try this, you'll like it."

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I do not expect to need anything else. Can run this alone without going thru the main pa.
Sound
Clean and punchy. The notch filter lets you put the sound right where it fits...and this changes room to room.
Features
It could offer a second input.
Quality
Runs cool and clear.
Manufacturer Support
N/A
The Wow Factor
I was drawn to it by the wedge/monitor design. I use it as an onstage monitor for my keyboard. It has plenty of punch. Gives me a level playing field with the guitars and drums.

Musical Style:

Pop-Jazz, classic Rock
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Submitted December 15, 2007 by a customer from yahoo.com

"Reliable but mediocre in sound"

Overall: 3.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
OK for self-use or with a guitarist, can't compete with a drum kit. Not the best tone. Solid product otherwise, definitely reliable. Maybe a 1x15" or 2x10", 2x12" is just a better idea
Sound
The sound on this won't break up until it's at its limit, and it delivers some low bass. But the sound is tinny and artificial. The sound really stunted me as a bass player. It just can't be compared to something like ampeg, or anything with paper cones and/or tweeter.
Features
You can change and scoop the mids well on this thing, but there's no quality to the high end really.
Quality
Lasted a while...then the rubber handle got cut through to reveal a very sharp
Value
For an average sounding combo amp I think there are cheaper
The Wow Factor
Looks cool...

Musical Background:

Semi-Professional / Gigging Band

Musical Style:

Hard Rock
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Submitted May 10, 2003 by a customer from attbi.com

"Versatile"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Sound
Perfect sound for use in multiple types of venue (small to medium sized). Great projection and balance.

Musical Style:

Christian, Folk, Rock
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Submitted March 22, 2004 by a customer from yahoo.com

Hartke Kickback 12 Amp Customer Review

Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
until it dies.
Sound
Sounds is great. For the size and mobility this little amp packs a punch. I use to have the other Hartke Combo amps that weighed a ton and didn't need that much power to begin with. I play Jazz and this amp is perfect for small clubs and bars. If the venue is that big...they have a sound system...it is nice that it has an XLR our for that purpose..although post would have been nice.
Features
Fine. I like the XLR output for DI box or sounds system. The phase thing is just weird...I never use it. Tilt back feature is great in the small setting to the sound goes up instead of straight across the floor...My drummer like it b/c then he can here me when we play...usually that area is small I am in front of him so he gets the bounced back sound.
Quality
this is my second Hartke amp, although is has less features, I can really on it every time. Although the air vent is weird in the top since I am usually lugging it around NYC...Rain/water can get in there easily.
Value
yept...
Manufacturer Support
N/A
The Wow Factor
basic look minus the tilt back feature. gotta love the aluminum cone

Musical Style:

jazz
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Submitted January 15, 2006 by a customer from aol.com

"Seems like you should get more outa it"

Overall: 3.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
If you want a nice medium song without buzzin the cones..this is for you, if you want loud, get something for powerful, but still get Hartke b/c i love this brand.
Sound
It gives you great support, except when you want to play louder. If your guitars in your band or loud, then this amp isnt for you, but other than that its a real nice thing to have in your basement.
Features
I really like the shape option. I wish it had extra speaker jack though to get more outa it.
Quality
Very sturdy...havent had problems
Value
depends if your a band who wants to go somewhere or you juss wanna play in your basement.
The Wow Factor
It looks real sweet with the whole kickback thing...love it

Musical Background:

musician

Musical Style:

progressive/ hard rock
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Submitted January 18, 2014 by Stephen Palmer in Point Pleasant, NJ

"very musical bass combo"

Overall: 3 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
My Crate bx-160 bit the dust after 10 years of abuse and gigging. Needed something to replace it. hartke is only 42 lbs. the crate was 65 lbs. I'm glad the hartke has a line out. our drummer is quite loud and drowned me out.going through the house system I was able to keep up pace. when this amp is in it's natural element "the coffee house" It sounds sweet. Another thing I have noticed with this amp is that you can play any instrument you want through this and it sounds great!! at low to mid volume the shape button is very useful.very good amp for small venues, very versatile musical instrument amplifier.

Musical Background:

I've been playing 15yrs semi professional on bass

Musical Style:

Rock,Reggae,Celtic,Country,Bluegrass and the Blues,Pop,Classical.Progressive,Jazz,Chill......................
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Submitted July 7, 2009 by a customer from gmail.com

"Great things come in small packages!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
This is a KEEPER! I would buy another Hartke if I lost this one.
Sound
WOW!!!!!! This little guy is incredible! In three decades of pro bass work I have owned Acoustic, Peavey and Fender amps tube and solid state. The transistor amps sounded dead! My Fender Bassman tube amps sounded great though. This little Hartke is alive and open just like a tube amp! It blows away most bigger amps with 15s in every category! Thanks to Larry Hartke!! Any bass-anytime!!
Features
Build quality is excellent-like a Swiss watch! It is elegantly simple to use but what a sound! From jazz to rock and country-it's all there.Compact and light-42 pounds-sounds like a hundred! The aluminum driver is fantastic-from tube warmth to a Jaco growl. I had a musical orgasm after trying it out. Thank you ZZOUNDS for selling Hartke-the Marshall of bass amps!
Ease of Use
The cabinet and driver design are awesome-any bass style is easy to dial up. Straight ahead and strive for tone!
Quality
Top shelf build quality and great looking as well.
Value
This amp is worth way more than 349-I guarantee!
Manufacturer Support
Mine arrived with one cracked corner protector. Called them and they shipped me a new one today-good service.By the way, UPS gets a little rough so it was due to them not Hartke I would guess.
The Wow Factor
I have had three big spine surgeries since 97. I never believed a little solid state amp could sound this great. Obviously, I cannot lift refrigerator sized bass gear any more. Don't need to anymore.As far as sex appeal goes the chicks will be amazed at the monster sound from such a small package-HA HA!

Musical Background:

Pro for 30plus tears

Musical Style:

jazz,rockabilly,country and classic rock
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Submitted April 28, 2008

"an OK amp but i want a new one"

Overall: 3.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Sound
It's small and has a small sound but gets the job done so long as you have realistic expectations for it. definitely very versatile in terms of tones you can get
Features
easy to use and very intuitive
Ease of Use
only a few knobs to play with
Quality
i busted the input jack on mine and had to fix it. i've also managed to break the knob on my mid eq knob but i'm sure that was my fault.
Value
i think there are better out there for that much
The Wow Factor
i want to replace it because i need more volume and power
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