Introduction
The Laney IRF-DUALTOP is a 60-watt RMS twin channel guitar amplifier head, designed to deliver versatile tones in a compact and portable format. Forged with over 55 years of tone experience, this amplifier offers a range of features including a footswitchable Boost, a 3-band passive EQ, an FX loop, on-board digital reverb based on the Secret Path algorithm, and a switchable high-quality IR loaded speaker emulated XLR DI out. It also features VARI WATT output from 100% down to less than 1% output, a cabinet emulated headphone socket, and an Aux IN for practice and recording.
Safety Information
Please read and understand all instructions before operating your amplifier. Retain this manual for future reference. Always ensure the amplifier is connected to a grounded power outlet. Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Avoid operating near heat sources or in direct sunlight. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Disconnect the power cord during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
Package Contents
- Laney IRF-DUALTOP Amplifier Head
- Power Cord (Corded Electric)
- Footswitch (for Boost and Channel switching)
- User Manual (this document)
Front Panel Controls
The front panel provides access to all primary controls for shaping your tone.
- INPUT: Connect your guitar here.
- BOOST: Activates the switchable Pre-Boost with adjustable level.
- CHANNEL 1 (Clean):
- ASYM/CLEAN/SYM Switch: Selects different gain modes for Channel 1.
- GAIN: Adjusts the input gain for Channel 1.
- VOLUME: Controls the output volume for Channel 1.
- CHANNEL 2 (Lead):
- BRIGHT/NORMAL/DARK Switch: Selects different voicing options for Channel 2.
- LEAD GAIN: Adjusts the input gain for Channel 2.
- LEAD VOLUME: Controls the output volume for Channel 2.
- 3-Band Passive EQ:
- BASS: Adjusts low frequencies.
- MIDDLE: Adjusts mid frequencies.
- TREBLE: Adjusts high frequencies.
- REVERB: Controls the level of the on-board digital reverb (Secret Path algorithm).
Rear Panel Connections
The rear panel provides various input and output options for connecting to external devices and speakers.
- DI OUT (XLR): Balanced XLR output with switchable high-quality IR loaded speaker emulation (two custom Laney 1x12" & 4x12" cabs). Includes a Ground Lift switch.
- AUX IN: 3.5mm stereo input for connecting external audio devices (e.g., MP3 player) for backing tracks.
- PHONES: 3.5mm stereo output with cabinet emulation for silent practice.
- EFFECTS LOOP (FX SEND/LINE OUT, FX RETURN): Transformer isolated send and return jacks for connecting external effects pedals.
- REMOTE: Input for the footswitch to control Boost and Channel switching.
- LOUDSPEAKER OUT: Connects to an external speaker cabinet (8-16 Ohms impedance).
- WATTS (VARI WATT): Switch to select between 100% output, <1W output, or other power modes for different volume levels.
- POWER: Main power switch for the amplifier.
- DC 24V 2.5A: Power input for the included 100-240V universal voltage power supply.
Key Features
- 60-watts RMS twin channel amplifier head.
- Footswitchable Boost for added gain.
- Versatile 3-band passive EQ for tone shaping.
- Transformer Isolated FX Loop for noiseless performance with external effects.
- On-Board Digital Reverb based on the Secret Path algorithm.
- Switchable high-quality IR loaded speaker emulated XLR DI out for direct recording or PA connection.
- VARI WATT output from 100% to less than 1% for flexible volume control.
- Cabinet emulated headphone socket for silent practice.
- Aux IN for playing along with backing tracks.
Setup
- Power Connection: Connect the supplied power adapter to the DC 24V 2.5A input on the rear panel and then to a suitable grounded mains power outlet.
- Speaker Connection: For optimal sound, connect the LOUDSPEAKER OUT to an external speaker cabinet with an impedance between 8 and 16 Ohms using a high-quality speaker cable. Ensure the speaker cable is securely connected at both ends.
- Guitar Connection: Plug your guitar into the INPUT jack on the front panel using a standard instrument cable.
- Initial Settings: Before powering on, ensure all GAIN and VOLUME knobs are set to their minimum (fully counter-clockwise) position. Set the WATTS switch to a low power setting for initial testing.
- Power On: Flip the POWER switch to the 'ON' position. The power indicator light will illuminate.
Operating Instructions
Basic Operation
- Channel Selection: Use the footswitch or the front panel switches to select between CHANNEL 1 (Clean) and CHANNEL 2 (Lead).
- Adjusting Volume: Slowly increase the VOLUME (for Channel 1) or LEAD VOLUME (for Channel 2) to your desired listening level.
- Gain Control: Adjust the GAIN (Channel 1) or LEAD GAIN (Channel 2) to control the amount of overdrive or distortion.
- Tone Shaping: Use the BASS, MIDDLE, and TREBLE knobs to adjust the amplifier's tonal characteristics.
- Reverb: Turn the REVERB knob clockwise to add more digital reverb to your sound.
- Boost: Engage the BOOST switch (via footswitch or front panel) to activate the pre-boost circuit. Adjust the BOOST knob to set the boost level.
Advanced Features
- VARI WATT: Experiment with the WATTS switch on the rear panel to find the optimal power output for your playing environment, from full 60W to less than 1W for bedroom practice.
- Headphone Practice: Connect headphones to the PHONES jack for silent practice. The output includes cabinet emulation.
- Playing with Backing Tracks: Connect an audio source to the AUX IN jack to play along with music.
- Effects Loop: Integrate external effects pedals by connecting them to the FX SEND/LINE OUT and FX RETURN jacks. The transformer isolated loop ensures signal integrity.
- Direct Recording/PA: Use the XLR DI OUT to connect directly to a mixing console or audio interface. Utilize the IR CAB SIMULATION switch to select between different cabinet emulations for a professional recorded tone.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Clean the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the amplifier in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the amplifier to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation openings.
- Cable Care: Always use high-quality cables and handle them with care to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output. | Power not connected, volume too low, speaker not connected, faulty cable. | Check power connection, increase volume, ensure speaker is connected, test with different cables. |
| Weak or distorted sound. | Incorrect gain settings, faulty guitar/cable, speaker impedance mismatch. | Adjust GAIN/LEAD GAIN, test with another guitar/cable, verify speaker impedance. |
| Excessive hum or noise. | Ground loop, faulty cable, interference from other electronics. | Use the DI OUT Ground Lift switch, try different power outlets, replace cables, move away from other electronics. |
| Footswitch not working. | Footswitch cable not connected or faulty. | Ensure footswitch cable is securely connected to the REMOTE jack. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | IRF-DUALTOP |
| Output Wattage | 60 Watts RMS (with VARI WATT control) |
| Channels | Twin Channel (Clean, Lead) |
| EQ | 3-Band Passive (Bass, Middle, Treble) |
| Effects | Digital Reverb (Secret Path algorithm), Footswitchable Boost |
| DI Output | XLR with Switchable IR Loaded Speaker Emulation |
| Headphone Output | 3.5mm Stereo with Cabinet Emulation |
| Aux Input | 3.5mm Stereo |
| Effects Loop | Transformer Isolated |
| Speaker Output Impedance | 8-16 Ohms |
| Power Source | Corded Electric (100-240V Universal Voltage PSU) |
| Item Weight | 11.28 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 20.1 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches |
Warranty and Support
Laney products are designed and engineered to the highest standards. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Laney website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Product Videos
Watch these official product videos for more information and demonstrations.
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