Laney DBF200H Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier Head

Introduction

The DIGBETH Foundry series builds on Laney's rich bass heritage, offering a range of bass combos designed for both beginners and semi-professionals. With a vintage aesthetic inspired by the classic tones of the 60s and 70s, combined with state-of-the-art functionality and British engineering, these combinations redefine affordability without compromising on performance. The DIGBETH Foundry series is set to become the new standard for affordable bass amplifiers. Laney cares about music and musicians. Digbeth Foundry amplifiers are designed by experts, not committees. Laney amps are made to be played. The Laney DIGBETH Foundry series combines tradition, innovation, and affordability in an unbeatable package. Whether you're just starting out or looking for reliable equipment for gigs, these amps offer everything you need to get your foot in the door in the music industry. Now everyone can experience the new standard in bass amplification. The DIGBETH Foundry series enhances your creativity with features for all playing styles. From clean tones to powerful overdrive, these amps provide the tools to shape your unique sound. Become part of the growing community of DIGBETH artists setting new standards in music. The DBF200H bass head combines state-of-the-art functionality with a vintage-inspired design in a compact format. The DBF200H is the ideal choice for live musicians who need a reliable, powerful head with first-class sound in a portable housing.

Features

• 200 Watts RMS Output Power: Delivers substantial power suitable for rehearsals and medium-sized gigs.
• Two Channels: FET and Drive, with Mix options for powerful drive while retaining clarity.
• The Preshape switch provides a mid-frequency scoop for a "scooped" tone, simultaneously boosting highs and lows. Switchable Mid Voicing.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing 5.8 kg (13 lbs), it offers easy transport without compromising durability.
• FX Loop for added flexibility.
• DI Output (Pre) for easy recording.
• Includes a 3.5mm AUX input for connecting external audio devices and a 3.5mm headphone output for silent practice sessions.
• These features make the DBF200H a versatile and user-friendly bass amplifier head designed for bassists seeking a balance between power, portability, and tonal flexibility, while using their cabinet of choice.

Controls

Front Panel

1. INPUT: A 6.35mm (1/4") mono jack socket with 1 MΩ input impedance for connecting an active or passive bass guitar. For optimal performance, use a high-quality instrument cable.

2. FET VOLUME: Controls the level of the FET channel. This channel offers a clean, fast response that is clear and punchy in the low end.

3. CHANNEL SELECT: Switches the selected channel between FET, DRIVE, or a mix of FET and DRIVE channels. Switching is also possible via remote control.

4. DRIVE: Sets the preamp gain for the DRIVE channel. At low settings, the DRIVE channel features subtle overdrive, producing a characteristic warm tone. At higher settings, the DRIVE channel's preamp is driven harder, resulting in more grit and distortion.

5. CHANNEL INDICATOR: The LED to the right of the DRIVE control indicates the currently active channel. It is green for FET and RED for MIX and DRIVE.

6. VOLUME: Controls the post-gain level of the DRIVE channel. Use in conjunction with the DRIVE control to achieve the perfect overdrive sound at the correct volume.

7. PRE-SHAPE: PRE-SHAPE active – scoops the mids and boosts the upper and lower frequency content. PRE-SHAPE inactive.

8. BASS: Increasing this control adds more low frequencies to the sound, which is excellent for lifting the subs. Decreasing this control reduces low frequencies, which is helpful for taming low-frequency feedback or cleaning up a muddy tone.

9. MID MODE: A 4-position rotary switch provides access to four different pre-set EQ sounds. The selected position works in conjunction with the MID LEVEL control.

• Position 1: A narrow lower-mid range that adds more definition to your bass when playing with a drummer. Pull it back to give kick and snare space, and push it forward to push your bass in front of the drums.
• Position 2: A broader mid control is excellent for highlighting your bass's growl, very useful for adding more bite to your distorted tones or for reducing and increasing mid-range clarity.
• Position 3: A narrow mid-tone setting, similar to Position 2, but finer and less aggressive, well-suited for hollowing out your bass for a slap tone or enhancing definition when playing distorted guitars.
• Position 4: An upper-mid setting, ideal for achieving the punch of a bass or reducing fret noise.

10. MID LEVEL: This control works in conjunction with the MID MODE control. Increasing the control boosts the selected MID band, decreasing the control cuts it, while a middle setting effectively bypasses the mid control independently of the MID MODE setting.

11. TREBLE: Boosts higher frequencies to add more clarity to the upper range of the sound. Decrease the control to remove higher frequencies. Good for a smooth, deep tone.

12. TILT: Functions as a general tonal balance control. Turning towards the treble end (Violin Clef symbol) lowers low frequencies and raises high frequencies. Turning towards the bass end (Bass Clef symbol) does the opposite. This control is perfect for fine-tuning your overall tone and ensuring your sound works in any situation.

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

14. AUX: A 3.5mm socket for connecting an external sound source. Useful for jamming along to audio tracks.

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

16. MASTER VOLUME: Allows quick adjustment of the overall output level while retaining the tone and character achieved in the input and EQ stages.

Rear Panel

1. LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTION: A SPEAKON® -compatible combi-output delivers 200W RMS to a 4-ohm loudspeaker. Suitable for 6.35mm jack plugs or NL2 connectors. NL2 connectors are designed for higher continuous power and are therefore recommended. Ensure the total loudspeaker output impedance is at least 4 ohms. An impedance below 4 ohms can lead to damage to the amplifier stage. It is not a problem to not connect the loudspeaker outputs, as this will not cause damage to the DBF200H. Laney recommends DBV212 or DBV410 cabinets as a complement to the DBF200H amplifier.

2. DI OUTPUT: A balanced XLR output for connecting an external device. Examples include a PA system, recording setup, or stage monitoring system. The DI signal is essentially a buffered version of the guitar input signal, as well as PRE-VOLUME/DRIVE and EQ.

3. FX LOOP - SEND/RETURN: These sockets are used to connect an external effects unit to your amplifier. Use the Send socket for the input of your external device and the Return socket for the output of the external device to your amplifier.

4. REMOTE: A 6.35mm jack socket allows remote access to the channel switching function (3) on the front panel. The footswitch function depends on the position of the channel selector switch. A LANEY FS1 footswitch remote is recommended (not included).

• TOP: DRIVE -> FET CHANNEL INDICATOR LED - OFF
• MIDDLE: MIX > DRIVE CHANNEL INDICATOR LED - GREEN
• BOTTOM: FET > DRIVE CHANNEL INDICATOR LED - RED

5. POWER SWITCH: The integrated switch disconnects the mains power. Turn the switch OFF when the unit is not in use.

6. POWER INPUT: The universal power connection is via an IEC C14 socket. An AC supply from 110V to 240V is permissible. Voltage selection or adjustment is not required. Use the supplied mains cable.

7. SAFETY AND WARNINGS: Important information and the amplifier's serial number. Ensure that the ventilation slots are not obstructed.

Connections Diagram

The diagram illustrates the signal path and connections for the Laney DBF200H. It shows the front panel controls (INPUT, FET VOLUME, DRIVE VOLUME, BASS, MID, TREBLE, TILT, MASTER VOLUME, AUX IN, PHONES) and rear panel connections (LOUDSPEAKER, FX SEND/LINE OUT (PRE), DI OUT, FX RETURN, REMOTE). The diagram depicts connections to a mixing console, audio source, and headphones. It also shows optional connections to a Laney FS1-MINI footswitch and Laney DBV212-4 or DBV410-4 speaker cabinets, indicating how these components integrate with the amplifier head.

Block Diagram

The block diagram outlines the internal signal flow of the DBF200H. The AUX input feeds the FET CHANNEL, while the main INPUT can be routed via a CHANNEL SELECT switch to either the FET CHANNEL or the DRIVE CHANNEL. Both channels have their own VOLUME controls. The signal then proceeds through PRE-SHAPE, BASS, MID MODE/LEVEL, TREBLE, TILT, SEND, RETURN, and finally MASTER VOLUME. A LIMITER and AMP MUTE are positioned before the LOUDSPEAKER OUT and PHONES outputs. The DI OUT is tapped before the MASTER VOLUME control.

Specifications

In the interest of continuous development, Laney reserves the right to change product specifications without prior notice.

Dimensions

The diagrams display the physical dimensions of the Laney DBF200H amplifier head from various perspectives. The key measurements provided are: Width 397mm, Depth 218mm, and Height 194mm.

Safety and Warnings

MANUFACTURER: HEADSTOCK DISTRIBUTION LTD. STEELPARK ROAD, COOMBS WOOD BUSINESS PARK WEST, HALESOWEN, B62 8HD, UK

To get the most out of your new product and enjoy long, trouble-free performance, please read this user manual carefully and keep it in a safe place for future reference.

1) Unpacking: Carefully inspect the product upon unpacking for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit from the factory to your dealer. In the unlikely event of damage, repack your unit in the original carton and contact your dealer. We strongly recommend you retain the original transit carton, as in the unlikely event your unit develops a fault, it can be safely packed and returned to your dealer for rectification.

2) Amplifier Connection: To avoid damage, it is generally advisable to establish and follow a pattern for powering your system on and off. With all system components connected, switch on source equipment, mixers, effects processors, etc., BEFORE switching on your amplifier. Many products have large transient surges when powered on and off, which can damage your loudspeakers. By switching on your amplifier LAST, and ensuring its level control is set to minimum, transients from other equipment should not reach your loudspeakers. Wait for all system components to stabilise, usually a few seconds. When switching your system off, similarly, always turn down the level controls on your amplifier and then switch off its power before switching off other equipment.

3) Cables: Never use unshielded cables or microphone cables for loudspeaker connections, as these are not robust enough to handle the amplifier load and could damage your entire system. Use high-quality shielded cables everywhere else.

4) Servicing: The user should not attempt to service these products. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

5) Observe all warnings.

6) Follow all instructions.

7) Do not use this apparatus near water.

8) Clean only with a dry cloth.

9) Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

10) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

11) A Class I apparatus must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earth connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one blade wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is for your safety. If the supplied plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.

12) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

13) Use only attachments/accessories supplied by the manufacturer.

14) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

15) The mains plug or appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device and shall remain readily operable. The user should ensure easy access to all mains plugs, mains couplers and mains switches used in conjunction with this apparatus so that it is easily operable. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.

16) 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.

17) Never break off the grounding prong. Connect the apparatus only to a power supply of the type marked on the apparatus adjacent to the power cord.

18) If this product is to be mounted in an equipment rack, a rear support should be provided.

19) UK Mains Plug Wiring Instructions: If the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus do not correspond with the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows: Green-and-yellow wire must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E, the earth symbol, green or green-and-yellow. Blue wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter N or the colour black. Brown wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter L or the colour red.

20) This electrical apparatus should not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and care should be taken not to place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

21) Exposure to extremely high noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary in their susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss, but almost everyone will suffer some hearing loss if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a sufficient period of time. The U.S. Government's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set the following permissible noise exposures: According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the permissible limits which are set forth above should be avoided. When operating this amplifier system, ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn to prevent permanent hearing loss if the exposure exceeds the limits set forth above. To protect yourself from potentially hazardous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels, such as this amplifier system, be protected by hearing protection while this equipment is in use.

22) If your unit features a tilt-back mechanism or kickback style cabinet, please use this design feature with caution. Due to the ease with which the amplifier can be moved between upright and tilted-back positions, only use the amplifier on a level, stable surface. DO NOT operate the amplifier on a desk, table, shelf, or any other unsuitable, unstable platform.

23) Symbols and nomenclatures used on the product and in the product manuals to alert the operator to areas where particular caution may be required are as follows:

• CAUTION: This symbol alerts the user to potentially hazardous voltages within the enclosure that are of sufficient magnitude to cause electric shock.
• WARNING: This symbol alerts the user to important instructions in the user manual concerning the handling and maintenance of the product.
• CAUTION: Risk of electric shock! Do not open! To avoid the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel. To avoid electric shock or fire hazard, this apparatus should not be exposed to rain or moisture. Read the user manual before operating.
• FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Warning: Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Laney could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
• CE Compliance: This product complies with the requirements of the following European regulations, directives and rules: CE marking (93/68/EEC), Low Voltage (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RoHS (2011/65/EU), ErP (2009/125/EU).
• 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. The subject of the declaration described above complies with the relevant statutory requirements of 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, The Ecodesign for Energy- Related Products and Energy Information, (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2012.
• WEEE Directive: To avoid environmental damage, this product must not be disposed of with normal household waste at the end of its service life. It must be taken to an approved recycling centre in accordance with the recommendations of the WEEE Directive (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) applicable in your country.