Laney Supergroup LA-Studio 3-Watt Tube Guitar Amp Head User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation of your Laney Supergroup LA-Studio 3-Watt Tube Guitar Amp Head. The LA-Studio combines classic analog tube tone with modern digital technology, featuring Two Notes Audio Engineering Torpedo technology for versatile sound shaping. It is designed for guitarists seeking a compact, high-quality tube amplifier for studio and practice use.

2. Safety Instructions

• Read Instructions: Carefully read and understand all safety and operating instructions before using this product.
• Retain Instructions: Keep this manual for future reference.
• Heed Warnings: Observe all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
• Power Source: Connect the unit only to the power supply type described in this manual or marked on the product.
• Grounding: Ensure the power cord is properly grounded to prevent electric shock.
• Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit to prevent overheating.
• Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids on the unit.
• Heat: Keep the unit away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing appliances.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Tubes: Tube amplifiers operate at high voltages and generate significant heat. Do not touch tubes when hot. Tube replacement should be performed by qualified personnel.
• Speaker Connection: Always connect a suitable speaker cabinet or load box to the amplifier's speaker output before powering on, unless using the DI output with an internal load. Failure to do so can damage the amplifier.

3. Key Features

• 3-watt Tube Guitar Amp Head
• Integrated Two Notes Audio Engineering Torpedo Technology
• Gain and Presence Knobs for tonal shaping
• Dedicated Headphone Output for silent practice
• Balanced DI Out for direct connection to front of house or audio interface
• Support for Custom DynIRs (Dynamic Impulse Responses)
• Equipped with three ECC83 Large Plate preamp tubes and 12BH7 power tubes

4. Controls and Connections

Familiarize yourself with the front panel controls and rear panel connections of your LA-Studio amplifier.

Figure 4.1: Front panel view of the Laney Supergroup LA-Studio amplifier head, showing controls and inputs.

Front Panel Controls:

• POWER Switch: Toggles the amplifier's main power ON or OFF.
• BRAKE Switch: Engages or disengages the internal reactive load for silent recording or practice.
• PRESENCE Knob: Adjusts the high-frequency response, adding sparkle and clarity.
• BASS Knob: Controls the low-frequency equalization.
• MIDDLE Knob: Controls the mid-frequency equalization.
• TREBLE Knob: Controls the high-frequency equalization.
• GAIN Knob: Adjusts the input sensitivity and amount of overdrive.
• BASS Input Jack: Primary input for guitar, optimized for a fuller low-end response.
• TREBLE Input Jack: Alternative input for guitar, optimized for a brighter, more articulate response.

Rear Panel Connections (Not Pictured):

• Speaker Output: Connect to a suitable speaker cabinet (e.g., 8 or 16 Ohm).
• Balanced DI Output (XLR): For direct connection to a mixing console or audio interface. This output utilizes the Two Notes Torpedo technology for cabinet simulation.
• Headphone Output (6.35mm Jack): For silent practice with headphones.
• USB Port: For connecting to a computer to access Two Notes Torpedo software for IR loading and parameter tweaking.
• Power Input: Connect the supplied power cord.

5. Setup

1. Placement: Place the LA-Studio on a stable, level surface, ensuring adequate ventilation.
2. Speaker/Load Connection:
   • For traditional use with a speaker cabinet: Connect a speaker cable from the amplifier's Speaker Output to your speaker cabinet. Ensure the cabinet's impedance matches the amplifier's output setting (if applicable, though this model is 3W and likely has a fixed output impedance or internal load).
   • For silent recording/practice: The internal reactive load is engaged via the BRAKE switch. You can use the DI Out or Headphone Out without a physical speaker cabinet connected.
3. Guitar Connection: Connect your guitar to either the BASS or TREBLE input jack on the front panel using a high-quality instrument cable.
4. Power Connection: Ensure the POWER switch is in the OFF position. Connect the supplied power cord to the amplifier's power input and then to a grounded AC outlet.
5. DI/USB Connections (Optional):
   • For recording or live sound: Connect an XLR cable from the Balanced DI Output to your audio interface or mixing console.
   • For advanced control and IR loading: Connect a USB cable from the USB port to your computer and install the necessary Two Notes Torpedo software.

6. Operating Instructions

1. Power On: Ensure all connections are secure. Flip the POWER switch to the ON position. The indicator light will illuminate.
2. Initial Settings: Start with all tone controls (BASS, MIDDLE, TREBLE, PRESENCE) at their center (5) position and the GAIN knob at a low setting.
3. Adjusting Tone:
   • GAIN: Increase the GAIN knob to achieve more overdrive and sustain. Lower settings provide cleaner tones.
   • BASS, MIDDLE, TREBLE: Adjust these controls to shape the amplifier's tonal character. Experiment to find your desired sound.
   • PRESENCE: Use the PRESENCE knob to add brightness and cut through the mix.
4. Using the BRAKE Switch: When engaged (ON), the BRAKE switch activates the internal reactive load, allowing you to use the amplifier's tube tone without a speaker cabinet. This is ideal for silent recording via the DI Out or practice with headphones. Ensure a speaker cabinet is disconnected when using the BRAKE function for silent operation.
5. Two Notes Torpedo Integration: The LA-Studio features integrated Two Notes Torpedo technology. When using the Balanced DI Output or Headphone Output, this technology provides high-quality cabinet simulations (DynIRs). Connect via USB to your computer to customize and load different DynIRs, adjust microphone placement, and fine-tune other parameters using the Two Notes software.
6. Headphone Use: Connect headphones to the Headphone Output for private practice. The volume will be controlled by the amplifier's overall output level (if applicable, or a dedicated headphone volume if present, which is not explicitly listed but implied).
7. Power Off: Before disconnecting any cables or moving the amplifier, flip the POWER switch to the OFF position and allow the unit to cool down.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the amplifier with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Ventilation: Regularly check that ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris.
• Tube Replacement: Vacuum tubes have a finite lifespan. If you notice a decrease in performance or unusual noise, tubes may need replacement. This procedure involves high voltages and should only be performed by qualified service technicians.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the amplifier in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

8. Troubleshooting

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Laney customer support or a qualified service technician.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

Laney products are designed for reliability and performance. For information regarding warranty coverage, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official Laney Amplification website or contact your authorized Laney dealer.

Online Resources: www.laney.co.uk

Always refer to the official Laney website for the most up-to-date information and support resources.