Hartke HyDrive HL112 Lightweight 1x12 Bass Cabinet – 300W RMS

Professional HyDrive bass tone. 300 watts RMS. Only 24.8 pounds. Build a serious bass rig without carrying a heavyweight cabinet.

The Hartke HyDrive HL112 is a professional lightweight 1x12 bass speaker cabinet designed for bassists who want a compact, highly portable rig without giving up the depth, articulation and versatility expected from a serious performance cabinet.

At the heart of the HL112 is a 12" Hartke HyDrive paper/aluminum hybrid-cone speaker with a neodymium magnet, combining the warm low-frequency character of paper with the clarity and smooth midrange response of aluminum.

A dedicated 1" high-frequency driver with three-position level control adds adjustable upper-frequency detail, while the front-ported, vented plywood enclosure helps produce substantial low-frequency response from its compact footprint.

The HL112 handles 300 watts RMS at 8 ohms while weighing only approximately:

24.8 lb / 11.3 kg

For gigging bassists, touring musicians, studio players and anyone building a compact professional bass rig, the HL112 delivers an impressive combination of tone, power and portability.

How Does the Hartke HyDrive HL112 Work?

The HL112 is a passive bass speaker cabinet.

That means it does not contain its own amplifier.

Instead, your bass connects to a compatible bass amplifier head.

The amplifier increases the power of your instrument signal and sends that amplified signal to the HL112 using an appropriate speaker cable.

A typical setup looks like:

Bass Guitar → Bass Amplifier Head → Hartke HL112

The 12" HyDrive speaker reproduces the primary bass signal while the dedicated high-frequency driver adds adjustable upper-frequency detail.

Because the HL112 has an 8-ohm impedance, always verify that your amplifier and complete speaker configuration are electrically compatible before connecting the system.

12" HyDrive Speaker

The HL112 uses a 12-inch Hartke HyDrive driver.

A 12" bass speaker occupies an interesting middle ground between the compact responsiveness of smaller drivers and the larger physical presence associated with 15" speakers.

That makes a 1x12 cabinet particularly appealing to players who want a versatile system without moving to a larger enclosure.

The HL112 is well suited for:

• Fingerstyle bass

• Slap bass

• Pick playing

• Rock

• Funk

• R&B

• Gospel

• Jazz

• Blues

• Pop

• Country

• Worship

• Recording

• Live performance

It's a flexible speaker configuration for players who need one cabinet to cover a wide range of musical situations.

What Is Hartke HyDrive Technology?

Hartke's HyDrive speaker technology combines paper and aluminum elements within the same speaker cone.

The curved outer portion uses Kevlar-loaded paper, while the straight inner portion uses anodized aluminum.

Why combine the two?

Because each material contributes different characteristics.

The paper portion helps provide deep, warm low-frequency response.

The aluminum inner cone contributes smooth mids, clear transients and definition.

Together, they're designed to provide the clear fundamental of each bass note while preserving its natural harmonic detail.

Instead of choosing between the character of paper and the articulation of aluminum, HyDrive brings elements of both together in one speaker.

Neodymium Magnet Technology

The HL112's HyDrive driver uses a neodymium magnet.

Neodymium helps reduce speaker weight while maintaining the performance required from a professional bass driver.

That contributes directly to one of the HL112's biggest advantages:

Only 24.8 pounds.

For a working bassist, that can make a major difference.

Carry it to rehearsal.

Put it in the car.

Walk it into the venue.

Set it on stage.

Play the show.

Then carry it back out without wondering why you bought a cabinet that feels permanently attached to the building.

300 Watts RMS Power Handling

The HL112 is rated for:

300 watts RMS

That gives this compact cabinet substantial power-handling capability.

Pair it with an appropriately matched amplifier head and the HL112 can become the foundation of an extremely portable professional bass system.

Or incorporate another compatible cabinet when your amplifier supports the resulting impedance and power requirements.

8-Ohm Impedance

The HL112 has a nominal impedance of:

8 ohms

This provides useful flexibility when designing a modular bass rig.

Use one HL112 with a compatible amplifier for a compact single-cabinet system.

Or, when your amplifier safely supports it, add a second compatible 8-ohm cabinet.

Two 8-ohm cabinets connected in parallel typically create a:

4-ohm total load

Always verify your amplifier's minimum supported impedance before connecting multiple cabinets.

1" High-Frequency Driver

Bass guitars reproduce much more than low frequencies.

String attack, harmonics, slap techniques, pick definition and effects can extend well into the upper-frequency range.

The HL112 therefore includes a dedicated 1-inch high-frequency driver.

This supplements the 12" HyDrive speaker with additional upper-frequency detail, giving players a more extended response when desired.

Three-Position High-Frequency Control

Not every bassist wants the same amount of high-frequency information.

The HL112 provides a three-position HF level switch:

ON — Full high-frequency driver operation.

-6 dB — Reduced high-frequency output.

OFF — Disables the high-frequency driver.

This gives you a simple way to change the cabinet's overall character.

Want additional slap articulation?

Turn the HF driver on.

Want some high-frequency detail without as much presence?

Select -6 dB.

Prefer a smoother, darker bass-cabinet response?

Switch it off.

Impressive Low-Frequency Extension

Compact doesn't necessarily mean shallow.

Hartke specifies the HL112 with a frequency response of:

35 Hz–17 kHz (-3 dB)

and:

25 Hz–17 kHz (-10 dB)

That gives this compact 1x12 cabinet substantial published low-frequency extension while its dedicated HF driver carries response into the upper frequencies.

For bassists trying to build a smaller rig without automatically sacrificing low-end capability, that's an important advantage.

Front-Ported Vented Cabinet

The HL112 uses a front-ported, vented enclosure.

The port works with the 12" HyDrive speaker and cabinet design to support low-frequency performance.

That helps the compact cabinet produce the depth expected from a professional bass system without requiring a physically oversized enclosure.

Lightweight Plywood Construction

Hartke builds the HL112 using 16mm kiln-dried plywood.

The enclosure also incorporates extensive internal bracing and dado joinery.

The goal is to maintain a rigid, performance-oriented cabinet structure while eliminating unnecessary weight.

That construction, combined with the neodymium speaker magnet, helps bring the complete cabinet down to approximately 24.8 lb.

Road-Ready Exterior

The HL112 may be lightweight, but it's designed for working musicians.

Its construction includes:

• Black textured finish

• Black perforated steel grille

• Chrome-plated protective corners

• Kiln-dried plywood enclosure

• Extensive internal bracing

That makes it suitable for regular rehearsal, studio, performance and transportation use.

Multiple Speaker Connections

The HL112 provides:

2 x Twist-and-Lock speaker connections

and:

2 x 1/4" speaker connections

The connections are wired in parallel.

This provides flexibility when integrating the HL112 into compatible amplifier and multi-cabinet configurations.

Always use an appropriate speaker cable between your amplifier and cabinet—not a conventional instrument cable.

Build an Ultra-Lightweight Bass Rig

This is where the HL112 becomes particularly compelling.

Pair it with a compact Class D bass amplifier head and you can create an extremely portable professional rig.

Instead of moving a large traditional combo or oversized speaker cabinet, your system becomes:

Bass → Compact Amp Head → HL112

The cabinet itself weighs less than 25 pounds.

For rehearsals, club dates, sessions and smaller performances, that's a remarkably convenient setup.

Stack Two HL112 Cabinets

Want a modular system?

Use one HL112 when maximum portability is the priority.

Bring a second compatible HL112 when you need additional speaker area and output capability.

Two 8-ohm HL112 cabinets connected in parallel typically create a:

4-ohm total load

That gives players the ability to scale the rig depending on the performance.

Smaller gig:

Amp + 1 HL112

Larger gig:

Amp + 2 HL112 Cabinets

You don't have to carry the larger system every time you leave the house.

A Natural Match for the Hartke TX300

Hartke itself pairs the HL112 with its compact TX300 amplifier as a mini-stack configuration.

The combination creates an exceptionally portable separate head-and-cabinet system.

The TX300 weighs approximately 5 lb, while the HL112 weighs approximately 24.8 lb.

That puts the two primary components at under 30 pounds combined, before cables and accessories.

It's a compelling option for bassists who want the upgrade flexibility of a separate amplifier and cabinet without the traditional weight associated with a professional bass rig.

Great for Five-String Bass

The HL112's published low-frequency response makes it an interesting option for five-string and extended-range players who want a compact cabinet.

Actual performance depends on the amplifier, instrument, EQ, room and desired volume, but the cabinet's frequency extension provides a strong foundation for players working in lower registers.

Great for Fingerstyle Bass

The 12" HyDrive speaker provides a versatile platform for fingerstyle playing.

Dial in warm, full bass tones or emphasize articulation when individual notes need to remain clearly defined in the mix.

Great for Slap Bass

Slap bass requires both low-frequency impact and upper-frequency articulation.

The HyDrive architecture and adjustable high-frequency driver give players the flexibility to emphasize the percussive attack and harmonic detail of slap techniques.

Great for Pick Playing

Rock and alternative bassists often need additional attack and midrange definition to keep the bass audible alongside electric guitars and drums.

The HL112's hybrid-cone speaker provides a responsive foundation for pick-driven bass tones.

Excellent for Touring & Live Performance

The combination of compact dimensions and approximately 24.8-lb weight makes the HL112 especially attractive for musicians who regularly transport their own equipment.

It's well suited for:

• Club gigs

• Touring

• Rehearsals

• Worship stages

• Recording sessions

• Corporate events

• Professional backline

• Music schools

• Production companies

• Studios

For musicians and crews handling equipment night after night, reducing cabinet weight can make a meaningful difference.

Key Features & Specifications

Product Type: Passive bass speaker cabinet
Series: HyDrive HL
Model: HL112
Speaker Configuration: 1 x 12"
Low-Frequency Driver: 12" HyDrive paper/aluminum hybrid-cone speaker
Speaker Magnet: Neodymium
High-Frequency Driver: 1"
HF Level Control: 3-position – On / -6 dB / Off
Power Handling: 300 watts RMS
Impedance: 8 ohms
Frequency Response (-3 dB): 35 Hz–17 kHz
Frequency Response (-10 dB): 25 Hz–17 kHz
Speaker Connections: 2 x Twist & Lock + 2 x 1/4"
Connection Wiring: Parallel
Cabinet Type: Vented
Cabinet Material: 16mm kiln-dried plywood
Construction: Extensive bracing and dado joinery
Exterior: Black textured finish
Grille: Black perforated steel
Corners: Chrome-plated protective corners
Dimensions: Approx. 16" x 19" x 15"
Weight: Approx. 24.8 lb / 11.3 kg
Primary Applications: Live performance, touring, rehearsal, recording and professional backline

Who Is the Hartke HyDrive HL112 For?

Gigging Bassists — Get professional bass-cabinet performance in a package weighing less than 25 pounds.

Players Building Lightweight Rigs — Pair the HL112 with a compact compatible amplifier head for an exceptionally portable system.

Touring Musicians — Reduce load-in and load-out weight without automatically moving to a practice-level speaker system.

Bassists Who Prefer 12" Speakers — Get a versatile middle ground between smaller 10" configurations and larger 15" cabinets.

Funk & Slap Players — HyDrive technology and the adjustable HF driver provide a strong platform for articulate playing.

Rock & Alternative Bassists — The hybrid-cone architecture provides useful attack and definition for dense arrangements.

R&B, Gospel & Worship Bassists — Build a compact system with substantial low-frequency extension and adjustable upper-frequency detail.

Backline Companies — Add a lightweight professional 8-ohm cabinet that's significantly easier for crews to transport.

Studios & Rehearsal Facilities — Provide players with a flexible cabinet that can work with a variety of compatible amplifier heads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hartke HyDrive HL112?
The HL112 is a lightweight passive 1x12 bass speaker cabinet featuring a 12" Hartke HyDrive paper/aluminum hybrid-cone driver with a neodymium magnet and dedicated 1" high-frequency driver.

How much power can the HL112 handle?
The cabinet is rated for 300 watts RMS.

What impedance is the HL112?
The HL112 has an 8-ohm nominal impedance.

How much does the Hartke HL112 weigh?
The cabinet weighs approximately 24.8 lb / 11.3 kg.

What size speaker does the HL112 use?
It features one 12" HyDrive low-frequency driver plus a 1" high-frequency driver.

What is HyDrive technology?
Hartke HyDrive combines paper and aluminum elements within the speaker cone to provide warm low-frequency response alongside smooth mids, clear transients and definition.

Why is the HL112 so lightweight?
The cabinet combines a neodymium-magnet speaker with lightweight 16mm kiln-dried plywood construction.

How low does the HL112 go?
Hartke specifies frequency response down to 35 Hz at -3 dB and 25 Hz at -10 dB.

Does the HL112 have a tweeter?
Yes. It includes a 1" high-frequency driver.

Can I adjust the high-frequency driver?
Yes. A three-position switch provides On, -6 dB and Off settings.

Is the HL112 ported or sealed?
The HL112 uses a vented cabinet design.

Does the HL112 contain an amplifier?
No. It is a passive cabinet and requires a compatible bass amplifier head.

Can I plug my bass directly into the HL112?
No. Your bass normally connects to an amplifier, and the amplifier's speaker output connects to the cabinet.

Can I use two HL112 cabinets together?
Potentially, yes. Two 8-ohm cabinets connected in parallel typically create a 4-ohm total load. Your amplifier must safely support that impedance and the complete speaker configuration.

Can I use the HL112 with a Hartke TX300?
Yes. Hartke offers the TX300 and HL112 together as a mini-stack configuration. Always follow the manufacturer's current connection and operating recommendations.

Should I use an instrument cable between my amplifier and the HL112?
No. Use an appropriate speaker cable designed for connecting an amplifier's speaker output to a passive cabinet.

300 Watts. Under 25 Pounds. Built to Go.

The Hartke HyDrive HL112 brings together a 12" HyDrive neodymium speaker, 300W RMS power handling, adjustable high-frequency driver and vented plywood enclosure in a cabinet weighing only approximately 24.8 pounds.

Bring one for the smaller gig.

Stack two when your compatible amplifier and performance call for more.

Pair it with a lightweight amplifier head.

Build a professional rig that fits comfortably into your workflow.

And when the show is over, carry a cabinet that doesn't make load-out feel like the hardest part of the performance.

For bassists who want professional tone, impressive low-frequency extension and exceptional portability, the HyDrive HL112 delivers a compelling combination of performance, flexibility and lightweight design.

Need help matching your bass amplifier and cabinet?
Backline Music Gear can help identify compatible bass amplifier heads, additional cabinets, speaker cables and accessories based on your desired power, impedance and performance setup.

Hartke, HyDrive, HL112 and related names are trademarks or property of their respective owners. Product and trademark names are used solely for accurate product identification. Specifications and product configurations are subject to manufacturer changes. Always verify amplifier power, minimum impedance and speaker-cabinet compatibility before connecting a bass rig.