Laney DBF100 & DBF200 Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier User Manual

Introduction

The Laney DIGBETH Foundry series offers bass combos for beginners and semi-professionals, blending vintage 60s/70s aesthetics with modern functionality and British engineering. These amps aim to be the new standard in affordable bass amplification, designed by musicians for musicians. The series combines heritage, innovation, and affordability, providing tools for all playing styles, from clean tones to gritty overdrive. Each combo features custom-designed HH Audio Blue Series drivers for clear, modern bass tones. The DBF100 is a compact, powerful option for professional demands, while the DBF200 offers more low-end power and tone for serious players.

Features

• The DBF100 produces 100 Watts RMS and the DBF200 produces 200 Watts RMS, delivering substantial power for rehearsals and small to medium-sized performances.
• Loaded with 12" HH Designed Professional Loudspeaker (DBF100) and 15" (DBF200), providing clear and punchy deep bass tones.
• Two Channels: FET and Drive, with a mix option for gritty drive while maintaining clarity.
• The Preshape switch provides a mid-frequency cut for a scooped sound, pushing the tops and lows. It offers switchable Mid Voicing.
• Compact and lightweight designs: DBF100 weighs 13.2Kg (29lbs) and DBF200 weighs 16.6Kg (36lbs). Both feature a ported enclosure with a removable grille for easy transport and suitability for limited spaces.
• Top-Mount Control Panel with user-friendly control knobs for easy access and adjustments.
• FX Loop for added flexibility.
• D.I Output (Pre) for easy recording.
• Includes a 3.5mm auxiliary input for connecting external audio devices and a 3.5mm headphone output for silent practice sessions.
• These features make the DBF100 and DBF200 versatile and user-friendly bass amplifiers, balancing power, portability, and tonal flexibility.

Controls

Top Panel

1. INPUT: A mono 6.35mm jack socket with a 1MΩ input impedance for connecting an active or passive bass guitar. Use a good quality instrument cable for best performance.

2. FET VOLUME: Controls the level of the FET Channel, offering a clean, fast response that is articulate and punchy in the low end.

3. CHANNEL SELECT SWITCH: Changes the selected channel between FET, DRIVE, or a MIX of FET and DRIVE channels. This can also be switched remotely.

4. DRIVE: Sets the amount of pre-gain to the DRIVE channel. Low settings provide subtle overdrive for a warm sound, while higher settings push the preamp harder for more growl and distortion.

5. CHANNEL INDICATOR: An LED to the right of the DRIVE control indicates the current active channel (Green for FET, Red for MIX and DRIVE).

6. DRIVE VOLUME: Controls the post-gain level of the DRIVE channel, used with the DRIVE control for desired overdrive tone and volume.

7. PRESHAPE: A switchable EQ shaping feature. 'PRESHAPE active' scoops the mids and pushes the top and bottom frequency content. 'PRESHAPE disabled' bypasses this shaping.

8. BASS: Adjusts low frequencies to increase the sub or cut back for feedback control or to clean up muddy sounds.

9. MID MODE: A 4-position rotary switch providing access to four different pre-shaped EQ sounds, working in conjunction with the MID LEVEL control.

• Position 1: Narrow lower mid cut, good for definition with a drummer.
• Position 2: Wider mid-range control for growl and bite, or for clarity.
• Position 3: Refined narrow mid-range for slap tone or definition with distorted guitars.
• Position 4: Upper mid setting for pop or cutting fret noise.

10. MID LEVEL: Works with the MID MODE control to boost or cut the selected MID band. The center setting bypasses the mid control.

11. TREBLE: Boosts higher frequencies for clarity or decreases them for a mellow sound.

12. TILT: An overall tone balance control. Turning towards the treble clef decreases lower frequencies and boosts higher frequencies; turning towards the bass clef does the opposite.

13. POWER INDICATOR: A red LED that illuminates when the amplifier is connected to mains power and the POWER switch is ON.

14. AUX: A 3.5mm jack for connecting an external sound source, useful for jamming along with audio tracks.

15. PHONES: A 3.5mm jack for monitoring or silent practice.

16. MASTER VOLUME: Allows quick adjustment of the overall output level while maintaining tone and color.

Rear Panel

1. DI OUT (PRE): A balanced XLR output feed for connecting to external devices like PA systems, recording setups, or stage monitors. The DI signal is a buffered version of the guitar input signal and is PRE-VOLUME/DRIVE and EQ.

2. FX LOOP - SEND/RETURN: Sockets for connecting an external effects device. Use the SEND jack to connect to the effects input and the RETURN jack to connect the effects output back to the amplifier.

3. REMOTE: A 6.35mm jack socket provides remote access to the CHANNEL SWITCH function. The footswitch function depends on the channel selection switch position. A LANEY FS1 footswitch remote is recommended (not included).

• UP: DRIVE -> FET (CHANNEL indicator LED: OFF)
• MIDDLE: MIX > DRIVE (CHANNEL indicator LED: GREEN)
• DOWN: FET > DRIVE (CHANNEL indicator LED: RED)

4. SAFETY INFORMATION: Important information and the amplifier serial number. Ensure ventilation slots are not covered.

5. POWER INLET: A universal power input via an IEC C14 socket, accepting 110V-240V AC supply without voltage selection or adjustment. Use the provided mains cable.

6. POWER SWITCH: Provides power isolation to the incoming mains power. Set to OFF when the amplifier is not in use.

Connections

The connections diagram illustrates how to connect instruments via the front panel INPUT jack. The amplifier's DI OUT (PRE) can be connected to a mixing console or PA system. The FX SEND/RETURN jacks are used for connecting external effects units. The AUX IN jack allows connection of an audio source for jamming. The PHONES jack connects to headphones for silent practice. A REMOTE jack is available for connecting a footswitch to control channel selection.

Block Diagram

The block diagram outlines the signal path: INPUT feeds into a CHANNEL SELECT switch, directing the signal to either the FET CHANNEL (controlled by FET VOLUME) or the DRIVE CHANNEL (controlled by DRIVE and DRIVE VOLUME). A PRESHAPE switch and MID MODE/LEVEL controls shape the EQ. The signal then passes through a MIX stage, potentially through an FX LOOP (SEND/RETURN), and is controlled by the MASTER VOLUME before reaching the SPEAKER (via AMP), DI OUT, and PHONES outputs. An AMP MUTE function is also indicated.

Specifications

DBF100

DBF200

Dimensions

DBF100 Dimensions (in mm)

The DBF100 measures 475mm in height, 416mm in width, and 331mm in depth.

DBF200 Dimensions (in mm)

The DBF200 measures 555mm in height, 466mm in width, and 351mm in depth.

Safety and Warnings

General: To ensure full advantage and trouble-free performance, read this owner's manual carefully and keep it for future reference.

Unpacking: Check for transit damage. If damaged, re-pack in the original carton and consult your dealer. Keep the original carton for potential future service needs.

Amplifier Connection: Establish a pattern for turning the system on and off. Turn on source equipment, mixers, and effects processors BEFORE turning on the amplifier. Turn off the amplifier first, then other equipment. Ensure level controls are at minimum when turning on.

Cables: Never use shielded or microphone cable for speaker connections. Use good quality shielded cables for all other connections.

Servicing: Do not attempt to service these products. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

General Warnings: Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use near water. Clean only with a dry cloth. Do not block ventilation openings. Do not install near heat sources.

Electrical Safety: Class I construction requires a protective connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the plug. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched. Use only manufacturer-approved attachments/accessories. Use with a suitable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. Ensure the mains plug or appliance coupler is readily accessible for disconnection. Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods. Refer servicing to qualified personnel if the apparatus is damaged. Do not break off the ground pin. Connect only to the specified power supply type. If rack-mounted, rear support should be provided. UK mains lead wiring instructions are provided for correct connection.

Liquid Exposure: This electrical apparatus should not be exposed to dripping or splashing. Avoid placing objects containing liquids, such as vases, upon the apparatus.

Noise Levels: Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Follow OSHA/EU guidelines for permissible noise level exposures. Hearing protection (earplugs or protectors) must be worn when operating this amplification system to prevent hearing loss if exposure exceeds limits.

Tilting Mechanism: If the appliance features a tilting mechanism, use it with caution. Operate only on a level, stable surface to avoid tip-over injuries.

Symbols: The product and manuals use symbols to alert the operator to areas requiring extra caution. These include symbols for 'Dangerous Voltage' (requiring caution regarding uninsulated voltages) and 'Important Operating and Maintenance Instructions' (indicating the need to refer to accompanying literature).

Declarations and Compliance

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: 1) This device may not cause harmful interference. 2) This device must accept any interference received, that may cause undesired operation. Warning: Changes or modifications not approved by Laney can void the user's authority to use the equipment.

European Regulations: This product conforms to the requirements of the following European Regulations, Directives & Rules: CE Mark (93/68/EEC), Low Voltage (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RoHS (2011/65/EU), ErP (2009/125/EU).

Simplified EU Declaration of Conformity: The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the following internet address: http://support.laney.co.uk/approvals.

UK Compliance: The object of the declaration is in conformity with the relevant statutory requirements, including the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016, The Restriction of the use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012, and The Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information Regulations.

Environmental Disposal: To reduce environmental damage, at the end of its useful life, this product must not be disposed of with normal household waste. It must be taken to an approved recycling centre according to the recommendations of the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive applicable in your country.