Laney A1+ Acoustic Guitar Amplifier

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Laney A1+ Acoustic Guitar Amplifier. This 80-watt RMS amplifier is designed to provide clear, natural amplification for acoustic instruments and vocals. Featuring two identical channels, comprehensive EQ, and built-in digital effects, the A1+ is suitable for a variety of performance and practice environments. This manual provides essential information for safe and effective operation, setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

2. Important Safety Instructions

• Read Instructions: Retain this manual for future reference.
• Heed Warnings: Follow all warnings on the amplifier and in this manual.
• Water & Moisture: Do not use this apparatus near water or expose it to dripping or splashing.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Power Cord: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

3. Getting Started & Setup

3.1 Unpacking

Carefully unpack your A1+ amplifier. Inspect it for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit. If damage is found, contact your dealer immediately. Retain the packaging for future transport.

3.2 Placement

Place the amplifier on a stable, level surface. Ensure there is adequate space around the unit for proper ventilation. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

3.3 Power Connection

Before connecting the power cord, ensure the amplifier's power switch is in the OFF position. Connect the supplied IEC power cord to the amplifier's power inlet and then to a suitable mains power outlet. Verify the voltage selector on the rear panel matches your local mains voltage.

3.4 Connecting Instruments and Microphones

The A1+ features two identical input channels, each with a Combi XLR/jack input socket, allowing for flexible connectivity.

Figure 1: Front panel of the Laney A1+ Acoustic Guitar Amplifier, showing input jacks and controls.

Figure 2: Rear panel of the Laney A1+ Acoustic Guitar Amplifier, showing power input, voltage selector, and various output/loop connections.

• Acoustic Guitar: Connect your acoustic guitar (with a pickup) to either Channel 1 or Channel 2 using a standard 1/4" jack cable.
• Microphone: Connect a microphone to either Channel 1 or Channel 2 using an XLR cable. If your microphone requires phantom power, ensure the Phantom Power switch on the rear panel is engaged.
• Auxiliary Input: For connecting external audio devices like MP3 players, use the 3.5mm AUX IN jack.

4. Controls and Functions

The A1+ amplifier features a comprehensive set of controls on its front and rear panels.

4.1 Front Panel Controls

• Input (Channels 1 & 2): Combi XLR/jack sockets for instruments or microphones.
• Gain (Channels 1 & 2): Adjusts the input sensitivity for each channel. Set to achieve a strong signal without clipping.
• Shape (Channels 1 & 2): A tone-shaping button that provides a pre-set EQ curve, often useful for enhancing acoustic guitar tone.
• EQ (Channels 1 & 2): Full 3-band equalization for each channel:
  • Bass: Adjusts low-frequency response.
  • Swept Mid: Allows you to select a specific mid-frequency to cut or boost, then adjust its level.
  • Treble: Adjusts high-frequency response.
• Anti-Feedback: Controls to help eliminate feedback:
  • Phase: Inverts the phase of the input signal, which can help reduce feedback.
  • Anti-Feedback: A frequency notch filter to target and reduce specific feedback frequencies.
• Effect Select: Rotary switch to choose from 16 internal digital effects.
• Effect Level: Adjusts the amount of the selected effect applied to the signal.
• Volume: Master volume control for the entire amplifier output.
• Aux In: 3.5mm stereo input for connecting external audio sources.
• Phones: 3.5mm stereo headphone output. Connecting headphones mutes the main speaker output.
• Power: Main power switch for the amplifier.

4.2 Rear Panel Connections

• Power Inlet: For connecting the IEC mains power cable.
• Voltage Select: Switch to select between different mains voltage standards (e.g., 115V/230V). Ensure this is set correctly for your region.
• Footswitch: Input for an optional footswitch to control effects.
• FX Loop (Send/Return): Allows connection of external effects processors. The Send output goes to the external effect's input, and the Return input comes from the external effect's output.
• DI Out (XLR): Balanced XLR output for direct connection to a mixing console or recording interface.
• Phantom Power Switch: Engages or disengages 48V phantom power for condenser microphones connected to the XLR inputs.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Powering On/Off

To power on, ensure all volume controls are set to minimum, then flip the Power switch to ON. To power off, turn down all volume controls, then flip the Power switch to OFF.

5.2 Basic Operation for Acoustic Guitar

1. Connect your acoustic guitar to Channel 1 or 2 input.
2. Set the Gain control for that channel to a low level.
3. Set the EQ controls (Bass, Swept Mid, Treble) to their center (12 o'clock) positions.
4. Slowly increase the Gain control while playing your guitar until a good signal level is achieved without distortion.
5. Adjust the EQ controls to shape your desired tone. Experiment with the Shape button for a quick tonal adjustment.
6. Slowly increase the Master Volume control to reach your desired listening level.

5.3 Basic Operation for Microphone

1. Connect your microphone to Channel 1 or 2 XLR input. If using a condenser microphone, ensure Phantom Power is engaged on the rear panel.
2. Follow steps 2-6 from the Acoustic Guitar operation, adjusting Gain and EQ for your vocal or instrument microphone.

5.4 Using Digital Effects

The A1+ includes 16 internal digital effects. Use the Effect Select knob to choose an effect (e.g., Reverb, Chorus, Delay). Adjust the Effect Level knob to blend the effect into your signal. The effect can be applied to either or both channels via a pan control (not explicitly detailed in provided specs, but implied by 'selectable to either or both channels via pan control' in feature bullets).

5.5 Headphone Use

Plug standard 3.5mm stereo headphones into the Phones jack. This will mute the main speaker output, allowing for silent practice.

5.6 External FX Loop

To integrate external effects pedals or processors, connect the FX Send jack to the input of your external effect and the output of your external effect to the FX Return jack. This loop can be applied to either or both channels.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the amplifier in a dry, dust-free environment.
• Transportation: When transporting, ensure the amplifier is securely packed to prevent physical damage.
• Ventilation: Regularly check that ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Laney A1+, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• No Sound:
  • Check if the amplifier is powered on and the power cord is securely connected.
  • Ensure all volume controls (Gain, Master Volume) are turned up.
  • Verify instrument/microphone cables are connected correctly and are not faulty.
  • If headphones are plugged in, the main speaker output will be muted. Unplug headphones to restore speaker sound.
• Distortion or Unwanted Noise:
  • Reduce the Gain control for the input channel. Excessive input signal can cause distortion.
  • Check EQ settings. Extreme treble or bass boost can introduce unwanted noise or harshness. Try setting EQ to neutral (12 o'clock).
  • Ensure cables are in good condition and properly shielded.
  • If experiencing hissing/crackling, especially with 's' sounds on vocals, try reducing treble and adjusting the Anti-Feedback controls.
• Hum or Buzz:
  • Ensure all power connections are secure and grounded.
  • Try plugging the amplifier into a different power outlet.
  • Check for faulty instrument or microphone cables.
  • Move the amplifier away from other electronic devices that might cause interference.
• Effects Not Working:
  • Ensure an effect is selected with the Effect Select knob.
  • Increase the Effect Level knob.
  • If using the external FX loop, ensure cables are correctly connected to Send and Return, and the external effect unit is powered on and functioning.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Laney products are designed for reliability and performance. This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Laney website for detailed warranty terms and conditions specific to your region.

For technical support, service, or parts, please contact your authorized Laney dealer or distributor. Do not attempt to service the unit yourself, as this may void your warranty and expose you to electrical hazards.