Laney DBF50 Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier

Introduction

The DIGBETH Foundry series is built upon 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 ultra-modern functionality and British engineering, these combos redefine value without compromising on performance.

The DIGBETH Foundry series is set to become the new standard for accessible bass amplifiers. Laney amplifiers are designed by experts, for musicians. The DIGBETH Foundry series from Laney combines tradition, innovation, and value into one unbeatable package. Whether you're just starting out or looking for reliable gigging equipment, these amplifiers offer everything you need to make your mark in music. Now everyone can experience the new standard in bass amplification.

The DIGBETH Foundry series amplifies your creativity with features suitable for all musical styles. From clean tones to more aggressive overdrive, these amplifiers provide the tools to shape your unique sound. Join the growing community of DIGBETH artists who are defining new standards in music.

Each DIGBETH Foundry combo is equipped with custom-designed HH Audio Blue Series drivers. These professional-grade woofers have been specifically designed for this range to deliver clean, modern, punchy, and articulate bass. Unlike competitors who rely on off-the-shelf drivers, Laney has collaborated with its sister brand HH Audio to ensure every note resonates with clarity and power.

The DBF50 offers enhanced versatility with its two footswitch-selectable channels (FET and Tube) for optimal tonal control. Whether playing live or recording in the studio, the DBF50 delivers modern performance with a vintage feel.

Features

• 50 Watts RMS Output Power: Provides sufficient volume for practice sessions, small gigs, or home recording.
• 10" HH Designed Professional Speaker: Delivers clear and powerful bass tones.
• Two Channels: FET and Drive, with mixing options for gritty drive that maintains clarity.
• Preshape Switch: Offers a mid-frequency cut for a deeper tone, while simultaneously boosting highs and lows.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing 10.9 kg (24 lbs) with a ported cabinet and removable grille, it's easy to transport and suitable for tight spaces.
• Top Control Panel: Features intuitive control knobs for easy access and adjustments.
• FX Loop: Provides greater flexibility for external effects.
• DI Out (Pre): Allows for easy direct recording.
• Connectivity: Includes a 3.5mm auxiliary input for connecting external audio sources and a 3.5mm headphone output for silent practice sessions.

These features make the DBF50 a versatile and user-friendly amplifier for bass players of all levels.

Controls - Top Panel

The top panel provides comprehensive control over the amplifier's sound.

1. INPUT: A 6.35mm mono jack with a 1MΩ input impedance for connecting an active or passive bass. For optimal performance, use a good quality instrument cable.

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

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

4. PRESHAPE:

• PRESHAPE Active: Boosts mid frequencies and pushes highs and lows.
• PRESHAPE Disabled: Standard tone.

5. DRIVE: Sets the amount of pre-gain for the DRIVE channel. At low settings, the DRIVE channel will have a slight amount of overdrive, adding a warm and characteristic tone. At higher settings, the DRIVE channel's preamp is pushed harder, delivering more growl and distortion.

6. CHANNEL INDICATOR: The LED to the right of the DRIVE control indicates the currently active channel. Green indicates FET, while RED indicates MIX and DRIVE.

7. VOLUME (Drive): Controls the post-gain level of the DRIVE channel. Use this in conjunction with the DRIVE control to achieve the perfect overdrive tone at your desired volume.

8. BASS: Increasing this control adds more low frequencies to the sound, great for boosting the sub. Decreasing it attenuates low frequencies, useful for controlling low-frequency feedback or cleaning up a muddy tone.

9. MID: Increasing the control boosts the MID band, helping the bass cut through in a denser mix, while decreasing the control creates a deeper and more modern tone.

10. TREBLE: Boosts higher frequencies, adding greater clarity to the sound. Roll off the control to reduce higher frequencies, ideal for a softer and subtly richer tone.

11. TILT: Functions as an overall sound balance control. Rotating towards the treble clef attenuates low frequencies and accentuates highs. Rotating towards the bass clef provides the opposite effect. This control is perfect for precise voicing of the overall sound and ensuring it works in any situation.

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

13. AUX IN: A 3.5mm jack for connecting an external audio source. Useful for playing along to backing tracks.

14. HEADPHONES: A 3.5mm jack for silent monitoring or practice.

15. MASTER VOLUME: Allows quick adjustment of the overall output level, maintaining the tone and colouration achieved at the input and EQ stage.

Controls - Rear Panel

The rear panel provides essential connectivity and power options.

1. DI OUT (PRE): A balanced XLR output for connecting to an external device, such as a PA system, recording setup, or live monitoring system. The DI signal is essentially a buffered version of the guitar input signal, as well as PRE-VOLUME/DRIVE and EQ.

2. FX LOOP (SEND/RETURN): These jacks are for connecting an external effects device to the amplifier. Use the send jack to connect to the external device's input and the return jack to connect the external device's output back to the amplifier.

3. REMOTE: A 6.35mm jack socket provides remote access to the CHANNEL SWITCH (3) function located on the front panel. The footswitch function depends on the channel selector position. Use of a LANEY FS1-mini footswitch (not included) is recommended.

• FS1-Mini Operation:
• TIP (Drive): DRIVE channel selected. Channel Indicator LED: RED.
• RING (Mix): MIX of DRIVE and FET channels selected. Channel Indicator LED: RED.
• SLEEVE (FET): FET channel selected. Channel Indicator LED: GREEN.

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

5. POWER: Features a universal power input via an IEC C14 mains socket. 110V to 240V AC operation is acceptable, and no voltage selection or adjustment is required. Use the supplied power cord.

6. POWER SWITCH: The integrated switch provides mains electrical isolation. When the DBF50 is not in use, set the switch to OFF.

Connections

The amplifier offers flexible connection options for various setups:

• Connect your bass guitar to the INPUT jack.
• The DI OUT (PRE) can be connected to a mixing console or PA system for live performance or recording.
• External effects can be connected via the FX SEND and FX RETURN jacks.
• An external audio source can be connected to the AUX IN jack to play along.
• For silent practice, connect headphones to the HEADPHONES jack.
• A Laney FS1-mini footswitch can be connected to the REMOTE jack for channel switching.

Block Diagram

The signal path within the DBF50 is as follows:

• The INPUT signal is routed to either the FET CHANNEL (controlled by FET VOLUME) or the DRIVE CHANNEL (controlled by DRIVE VOLUME and PRESHAPE).
• The CHANNEL SELECT switch allows selection of FET, DRIVE, or a mix of both.
• The signal then passes through the EQ section (BASS, MID, TREBLE, TILT) and MASTER VOLUME.
• A LIMITER is present before the final AMP stage.
• The output is then sent to the LOUDSPEAKER, HEADPHONES jack, or the DI OUT.
• The AUX IN signal is mixed into the system, allowing you to play along with external audio sources.

Specifications

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

Dimensions (in mm)

The amplifier has the following approximate dimensions:

• Height: 435 mm
• Width: 401 mm
• Depth: 301 mm

Refer to the diagrams for visual representation of the unit's dimensions.

Safety & Warnings

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

To get the most from 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: After unpacking the product, please check carefully for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit from the Laney factory to the retailer. In the unlikely event that damage has occurred, repack the unit in its original carton and consult your retailer. We strongly recommend that you keep the original shipping carton, as in the unlikely event that your unit should develop a fault, you will be able to return it to your retailer securely packed for repair.

2) Amplifier Connection: To avoid damage, it is generally advisable to establish and follow a sequence for powering up and down your system. With all parts of the system connected, power up source equipment, mixers, effects processors etc. BEFORE powering up the amplifier. Many products have large transient surges on power up and down which can cause damage to loudspeakers. Powering up the amplifier LAST and ensuring its level control is set to minimum, any transients from other equipment should not reach your loudspeakers. Wait for all parts of the system to stabilise, usually a couple of seconds. Similarly, when powering down your system, always turn down the level controls on your amplifier and then power it down before powering down other equipment.

3) Cables: Never use screened or microphone cables for loudspeaker connections as they will not be substantial enough to handle the amplifier load and could cause damage to the entire system. Use good quality screened cables throughout.

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

5) Heed all warnings.

6) Follow all instructions.

7) Do not use this apparatus near water.

8) Clean only with a dry cloth.

9) Do not obstruct any 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) Class I construction apparatus must be connected to a mains socket with a protective earth connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or earthing-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades, one wider than the other. An earthing-type plug has two blades and a third earth pin. The wider blade or the third pin is provided for your safety. If the supplied plug does not fit your socket, consult an electrician for replacement of your obsolete socket.

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 a cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When using a cart, 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 allow easy access to any mains plug, mains coupler and mains switch used with this unit, making it readily operable. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

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, apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

17) Never break the earth pin. Connect only to a power supply of the type marked on the unit next to the power supply cord.

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

19) Note for UK only: If the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this unit do not correspond with the terminals of your plug, proceed as follows:

• The green and yellow coloured wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter E, or by the earth symbol ⏚, or coloured green or green and yellow.
• The blue coloured wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter N or coloured black.
• The brown coloured wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter L or coloured red.

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

21) Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss, but almost everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to sufficient loudness for a sufficient duration. U.S. Government OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has specified the following permissible noise exposure limits: According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits could cause hearing loss. When using this amplification system, it is necessary to wear ear plugs or a noise barrier headset or ear defenders, in order to prevent permanent hearing loss, if exposure exceeds the above limits. To avoid 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 amplification system be protected by hearing protection whilst this unit is in operation.

22) If the appliance is fitted with a tilt-back mechanism or cabinet, use this design feature with caution. Due to the ease with which the amplifier can be moved between upright and tilted-back positions, use the amplifier only on a flat stable surface. DO NOT use the amplifier on a desk, table, shelf or unstable platform otherwise unsuitable.

23) The symbols and nomenclature used on the product and in the product manuals, intended to alert the operator to areas where greater caution may be necessary, are as follows:

CAUTION: Intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated 'Dangerous Voltage' within the product's enclosure that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of electrical shock to persons.

WARNING: Intended to alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (Servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

WARNING: Risk of electrical shock - DO NOT OPEN. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not remove the cover. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

WARNING: To prevent electrical shock or fire hazard, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. Before using this appliance please read the operating instructions for further warnings.

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 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 to 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.

EU Declaration of Conformity: This product complies with the requirements of the following European regulations, directives and standards: CE marking (93/68/EEC), Low Voltage (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RoHS (2011/65/EU), ErP (2009/125/EU). The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at: http://support.laney.co.uk/approvals

UK Declaration of Conformity: The object of the declaration described above is in conformity 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) (exit from the EU) regulations 2012.

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