Laney A-Fresco-2 Acoustic Instrument Combo 60W User Manual

Introduction

The Laney A-Fresco-2 is an ultra-compact acoustic instrument combo amplifier designed for versatility, portability, and reliability. Engineered in the UK, it features an ultra-efficient Class D power amplifier and a single 8-inch custom-designed full-frequency coaxial woofer. This combination delivers articulate, transparent acoustic sound with both punch and high-end clarity, faithfully reproducing your instrument's natural tone.

This amplifier operates on both mains power and internal rechargeable Li-Ion batteries, offering up to 24 hours of power for performances anywhere. With two independent channels, powerful EQ, and an auxiliary input, the A-Fresco-2 is suitable for various settings, from street performances to studio use.

Important Safety Information

• Read Instructions: Retain this manual for future reference.
• Power Source: Use only the specified power adapter. Ensure the voltage matches your local supply.
• Water and Moisture: Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. Do not use near water.
• Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Cables: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• 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.
• Battery Safety: The unit contains a rechargeable Li-Ion battery. Do not attempt to replace the battery yourself. Dispose of batteries according to local regulations.

Product Overview

The Laney A-Fresco-2 is a 60-watt acoustic instrument combo amplifier featuring a single 8-inch dual-cone speaker. It includes on-board digital effects and an FX loop for enhanced sound shaping. The amplifier is designed for acoustic instruments and offers two independent channels for versatile input options.

Key Features:

• 60 Watts of power output.
• 1 x 8-inch Dual Cone speaker for clear, full-range sound.
• On-board Digital FX (Reverb, Chorus).
• Integrated FX loop for external effects pedals.
• Two independent channels with dedicated EQ.
• Battery-powered operation with up to 24 hours of use.
• Auxiliary input for connecting external audio devices.

Image: Front side view of the Laney A-Fresco-2 Acoustic Instrument Combo amplifier, showcasing its compact design and control panel.

Controls and Connections

Familiarize yourself with the various controls and connection points on your A-Fresco-2 amplifier.

Control Panel (Front/Side)

Image: Close-up of the Laney A-Fresco-2 control panel, showing knobs and input jacks.

• Volume: Master volume control for the entire amplifier output.
• Mute: Button to temporarily silence the amplifier output.
• Power Indicator: LED light indicating the power status of the unit.
• Anti-Feedback: Control to reduce or eliminate feedback.
• Phase: Button to invert the phase of the input signal, useful for feedback reduction or tonal shaping.
• Reverb: Effect control for adding reverberation to your sound. Each channel has an independent adjustment.
• Chorus: Effect control for adding chorus to your sound. Each channel has an independent adjustment.
• Treble: EQ control for adjusting high frequencies. Independent for each channel.
• Middle: EQ control for adjusting mid frequencies. Independent for each channel.
• Bass: EQ control for adjusting low frequencies. Independent for each channel.
• Shape: Tone shaping button or knob, offering a pre-set EQ curve. Independent for each channel.
• Level: Input gain control for each channel (CH1, CH2).
• Peak Indicator: LED light that illuminates when the input signal is too high, indicating potential clipping.
• CH1 Input: Combination XLR/TRS jack for connecting instruments or microphones.
• CH2 Input: Combination XLR/TRS jack for connecting instruments or microphones.

Rear Panel Connections

Image: Rear panel of the Laney A-Fresco-2, showing various input/output jacks and power switch.

• Headphones: 3.5mm stereo jack for connecting headphones.
• Aux In: 3.5mm stereo jack for connecting external audio sources like MP3 players or phones.
• FX Send: Output for sending signal to external effects units.
• FX Return: Input for receiving signal from external effects units.
• Remote: Jack for connecting an optional footswitch (FS2-MINI) for remote control of functions.
• DI Out (XLR): Balanced XLR output for connecting to a PA system or recording console.
• GND Lift: Switch to help eliminate hum caused by ground loops when using the DI Out.
• Source: Switch to select the source for the DI Out (Pre-EQ/Post-EQ).
• Mode: Switch to select power mode (Normal/Eco).
• DC In: Power input jack for the supplied AC adapter.
• Power Switch: On/Off switch for the amplifier.
• Battery Compartment: Access for the internal rechargeable Li-Ion battery.

Setup

Powering On

1. Mains Power: Connect the supplied AC adapter to the 'DC In' jack on the rear panel and plug it into a suitable wall outlet.
2. Battery Power: The A-Fresco-2 has an internal rechargeable Li-Ion battery. Ensure it is charged before use. The unit can be used while charging.
3. Flip the 'Power' switch on the rear panel to the 'ON' position. The power indicator LED on the control panel will illuminate.

Connecting Your Instrument/Microphone

1. Ensure the amplifier's 'Volume' control is set to minimum.
2. Connect your acoustic instrument or microphone to either the 'CH1 Input' or 'CH2 Input' using a standard 1/4-inch jack cable or an XLR cable.
3. If using an external audio source (e.g., MP3 player), connect it to the 'Aux In' jack using a 3.5mm stereo cable.

Using the FX Loop

To integrate external effects pedals:

1. Connect the 'FX Send' jack to the input of your external effects unit.
2. Connect the output of your external effects unit to the 'FX Return' jack.

Operating

Basic Operation

1. After connecting your instrument, slowly increase the 'Level' control for the active channel until you reach a desired input level. The 'Peak' LED should only flash occasionally.
2. Gradually raise the 'Volume' control to achieve your overall desired output level.

Tone Shaping (EQ)

Use the 'Treble', 'Middle', and 'Bass' controls for each channel to adjust the tonal characteristics of your instrument. Experiment with these controls to find the sound that best suits your instrument and playing style. The 'Shape' button/knob provides a quick pre-set EQ curve.

Effects

• Reverb: Turn the 'Reverb' knob to add a sense of space and depth to your sound.
• Chorus: Turn the 'Chorus' knob to add a shimmering, swirling effect to your sound.

Anti-Feedback and Phase

If you experience feedback, try adjusting the 'Anti-Feedback' control. The 'Phase' button can also help eliminate feedback, especially in live situations, by inverting the signal's phase.

Eco Mode

The 'Mode' switch on the rear panel allows you to select between 'Normal' and 'Eco' modes. 'Eco' mode conserves battery power, extending the operational time when running on batteries.

Maintenance

Cleaning

To clean the amplifier, use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish. Ensure the unit is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.

Battery Care

The internal Li-Ion battery is designed for long life. To maximize battery lifespan:

• Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
• Store the unit in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.
• If storing for a long time, ensure the battery is charged to approximately 50-70% capacity.
• Do not attempt to replace the battery yourself. Contact qualified service personnel if battery issues arise.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check if the amplifier is powered on and the power indicator LED is lit.
  • Ensure all cables are securely connected.
  • Verify that the 'Volume' and channel 'Level' controls are not set to minimum.
  • Check if the 'Mute' button is engaged.
  • Test with a different instrument or cable to rule out external equipment issues.
• Distorted Sound:
  • Reduce the channel 'Level' control if the 'Peak' LED is constantly lit.
  • Lower the overall 'Volume' control.
  • Check for damaged cables.
• Hum or Noise:
  • Engage the 'GND Lift' switch on the rear panel if using the DI Out.
  • Ensure all power connections are secure and not near other electrical interference sources.
  • A slight amount of white noise may be present at higher volumes, which is common for some amplifiers and typically unnoticeable during playing.
• Battery Not Charging:
  • Ensure the AC adapter is correctly connected and the wall outlet is functional.
  • Verify that the power adapter is the original supplied unit.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Laney Amplification website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.