Laney DBF30 Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier User Manual
Introduction
The DIGBETH Foundry series builds on Laney's rich bass heritage, offering a range of bass combos designed for 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 affordability without compromising on performance. The DIGBETH Foundry series aims to become the new standard in affordable bass amps. Laney designs its amps with musicians in mind, focusing on playability. The Laney DIGBETH Foundry series merges heritage, innovation, and affordability into one package, suitable for those starting out or seeking reliable gigging gear. The series amplifies creativity with features catering to all playing styles, from clean tones to gritty overdrive. Each DIGBETH Foundry combo features custom-designed HH Audio Blue Series drivers, engineered for clean, modern bass tones that are bright and punchy. The DBF30 is ideal for beginners or players seeking a portable practice amp without sacrificing tone.
Features
- 30 Watts RMS Power Output: Delivers sufficient volume for practice sessions and small performances.
- 8" HH Designed Professional Loudspeaker: Provides clear and punchy bass tones.
- Switchable Overdrive Circuit: Allows players to add a gritty, overdriven tone with the flip of a switch, enhancing tonal versatility.
- Preshap Switch: Provides a mid-frequency cut for a scooped sound whilst pushing the tops and lows.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing just 8.3Kg (18lbs) and featuring a ported enclosure with a removable grille, it's easy to transport and suitable for limited spaces.
- Top-Mount Control Panel: Equipped with user-friendly control knobs for easy access and adjustments.
- Connectivity: 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 DBF30 a versatile and user-friendly amplifier for bassists at all levels.
Controls - Top Panel
The top panel provides access to all essential controls for shaping your sound.
1. INPUT
A mono 6.35mm jack socket with a 1MΩ input impedance for connecting an active or passive bass guitar. For best performance, use a good quality instrument cable.
2. VOLUME
Controls the overall volume level of a signal path, offering a clean, fast response that is articulate and punchy in the low end.
3. DRIVE
Applies a fixed amount of DRIVE to the signal path.
DRIVE enabled: A subtle amount of overdrive adding a characteristic warm sound.
DRIVE disabled.
4. PRESHAPE
PRESHAPE active: Scooping the mids and pushing the top and bottom frequency content.
PRESHAPE disabled.
5. BASS
Increasing this control adds more low frequencies to the sound, great for increasing the sub. Decreasing this control cuts back low frequencies, useful to help reign in low end feedback or clean up a muddy sound.
6. MID
Increasing the control boosts the MID band, helping the bass guitar cut through a busy mix, while decreasing the control creates a scoop and a modern tone.
7. TREBLE
Boost the higher frequencies, giving more top end clarity to the sound. Decrease the control to remove higher frequencies, good for a subby mellow sound.
8. TILT
Works like an overall balance control of the tone. Turning toward the treble clef will decrease lower frequencies and boost higher frequencies. Turning towards the bass clef does the opposite. This control is perfect for fine-tuning your overall tone and ensuring your tone works in any situation.
9. POWER INDICATOR
A red LED which illuminates when the amplifier is connected to mains power and the POWER switch is set to ON.
10. AUX
A 3.5mm jack for connecting an external sound source. Useful for jamming along with audio tracks.
11. PHONES
A 3.5mm jack for monitoring or silent practice.
Rear Panel
The rear panel houses the main power connections and safety information.
1. SAFETY INFORMATION
Important information, and the amplifier serial number. Ensure the ventilation slots aren't covered.
2. POWER INLET
A universal power input provided via an IEC C14 socket. An AC supply from 110V-240V is acceptable, and voltage selection or adjustment is not required.
3. POWER SWITCH
The onboard switch provides power isolation to the incoming mains power. Set the switch to OFF when the DBF30 is not in use.
Connections
The amplifier features a standard 6.35mm (1/4") instrument input. For connecting external audio devices, a 3.5mm auxiliary input (AUX IN) is provided. For silent practice, a 3.5mm stereo headphone output (PHONES) is available.
Block Diagram
The signal path includes the Input, Volume control, EQ section (Preshap, Bass, Mid, Treble, Tilt), Drive control, a Limiter, the Amplifier (AMP), and outputs for the Loudspeaker and Headphones.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model No | DBF30 |
| Name | Digbeth Foundry DBF30 |
| Type | Bass Amplifier Combo, Bass reflex design |
| Frequency response (-10dB) | 65Hz - 18kHz |
| Max SPL (1M) | 112 dB SPL (Continuous), 115 dB SPL (Peak) |
| Power Rating | 60W Continuous, 30W RMS |
| Amplifier Type | Class D, with fully passive convection cooling for silent operation |
| Channels | One, with overdrive function |
| Input | 6.3mm (1/4") Jack Socket Instrument Input, 3.5mm Stereo Aux in |
| Input Impedance | 1MΩ |
| Outputs | 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack |
| Controls | Volume, Preshape Switch, Drive Switch, Bass, Middle, Treble, Tilt Control |
| EQ | Preshap, Bass (±12dB), Middle (±12dB), Treble (±12dB), Tilt Control |
| Indicators | Power LED |
| Woofer | 8" HH Blue 0801030-4 Professional Woofer |
| Enclosure | Precision-engineered 12mm MDF cabinet for enhanced structural stability and acoustic performance |
| Handles | Top mounted steel reinforced strap handle for comfortable and easy transportation |
| Finish | Hard wearing black vinyl, Steel Corners for enhanced protection |
| Power Supply | Internal universal 100-240V~ 50/60Hz, Switched mode power supply. IEC C14 inlet connector |
| Power Consumption | Typical Power Consumption 25W Nominal, Max Power Consumption 85 Watts |
| Unit dimensions (HWD) | 384 x 355 x 265mm, (15.1" x 14" x 10.4") |
| Unit weight | 8.3Kg, (18.3 lbs) |
| Carton dimensions (HWD) | 435 x 420 x 330mm, (17.1" x 16.5" x 13"), 0.06 M³ |
| Packed Weight | 10.3Kg, (22.7 lbs) |
| EAN Code (Single) | 5060109459647 |
In the interest of continued development, Laney reserves the right to amend product specification without prior notification.
Dimensions
The amplifier has the following approximate dimensions:
- Height: 384mm (15.1 inches)
- Width: 355mm (14 inches)
- Depth: 265mm (10.4 inches)
The unit weighs 8.3Kg (18.3 lbs).
Safety and Warnings
Please read this manual carefully for safe and trouble-free performance.
General Safety Instructions:
- Unpack carefully and check for transit damage. Keep original packaging for potential returns.
- Follow a specific power-on/off sequence: turn on source equipment first, then the amplifier last. Turn off the amplifier first, then other equipment.
- Use only appropriate speaker cables for speaker connections.
- Do not attempt to service the product yourself; refer to qualified personnel.
- Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
- Do not use near water.
- Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Ensure ventilation openings are not blocked and install away from heat sources.
- Connect to a grounded mains socket outlet.
- Protect the power cord from damage.
- Use only manufacturer-provided attachments/accessories.
- Use with a suitable cart/stand and exercise caution when moving.
- Ensure the mains plug/coupler is easily accessible and operable. Unplug during lightning storms or long periods of non-use.
- Refer servicing to qualified personnel if the unit is damaged, exposed to liquid/moisture, or not operating normally.
- Never break off the ground pin. Connect only to the specified power supply type.
- If rack-mounted, ensure rear support is provided.
- UK specific wiring instructions are provided for the mains lead.
- Do not expose to dripping or splashing; do not place liquid-filled objects on the apparatus.
- Hearing Protection: Exposure to extremely high noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss. Use hearing protection when operating the amplifier at high volumes to prevent hearing damage. Follow OSHA and EU guidelines for safe noise exposure levels.
- If the unit has a tilting mechanism, use it on a stable, level surface to prevent tip-over.
- Symbols used in the manual indicate areas requiring extra caution.
Symbol Explanations:
- Caution Symbol (Triangle with exclamation mark): Indicates the presence of uninsulated 'Dangerous Voltage' within the enclosure that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of electrical shock.
- Warning Symbol (Triangle with exclamation mark): Indicates the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature.
- Caution: Risk of electrical shock - DO NOT OPEN: 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 to rain or moisture. Read operating instructions for further warnings.
Compliance Information:
- FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it may not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received. Changes not approved by Laney can void user authority.
- European Regulations: Conforms to CE Mark, Low Voltage (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RoHS (2011/65/EU), ErP (2009/125/EU). A simplified EU declaration of conformity is available at http://support.laney.co.uk/approvals.
- UK Compliance: Conforms to relevant UK statutory requirements including Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016, and Restriction of Hazardous Substances Regulations 2012.
- WEEE Directive: To reduce environmental damage, this product must not be disposed of with normal household waste. Take it to an approved recycling centre according to WEEE directive recommendations.
Manufacturer: Laney Amplification, Steelpark Road, Coombs Wood Business Park West, Halesowen, B62 8HD, UK.
For the latest information, please visit www.laney.co.uk.
Laney reserves the right to amend product specifications without prior notification in the interest of continued development.
Approvals
Laney Amplification - Since 1967
Laney Amplification - Since 1967
