Laney DBF200H Digbeth Foundry Bass Amp Head 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, paired 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 cares about music and musicians, designing the Digbeth Foundry amps with experts. The Laney DIGBETH Foundry series combines heritage, innovation, and affordability. Whether you're starting out or looking for reliable gigging gear, these amps offer everything needed to make your mark in music. The DIGBETH Foundry series amplifies creativity with features catering to all playing styles, from clean tones to gritty overdrive. The DBF200H bass head combines ultra-modern functionality with vintage-inspired design in a compact format, making it ideal for gigging musicians needing a reliable, powerful head with premium tone in a portable package.

Features

• 200 Watts RMS Power Output: Delivers substantial power suitable for rehearsals and medium-sized performances.
• Two Channels: FET and Drive, with mix options for gritty drive whilst maintaining clarity.
• Preshape Switch: Provides a mid-frequency cut for a scooped sound whilst pushing the tops and lows. Switchable Mid Voicing.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing 5.8Kg (13lbs), it offers easy portability without compromising durability.
• FX Loop: For added flexibility.
• D.I Output (Pre): For easy recording.
• Auxiliary and Headphone Inputs: 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 DBF200H a versatile and user-friendly bass amplifier head designed for bassists seeking a balance between power, portability, and tonal flexibility with their choice of cabinets.

Controls - Front Panel

The front panel features the following controls:

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. VOLUME

Controls the post-gain level of the DRIVE channel. Use in conjunction with the DRIVE control to achieve the perfect overdrive tone at the desired volume.

7. PRESHAPE

Engages a mid-frequency scoop, boosting top and bottom frequencies. When disabled, this effect is bypassed.

8. BASS

Adjusts low frequencies, increasing sub-bass. Decreasing it cuts low frequencies, useful for managing low-end feedback or cleaning up a muddy sound.

9. MID MODE

A 4-position rotary switch offering four pre-shaped EQ sounds, working in conjunction with the MID LEVEL control:

• Position 1: Narrow lower mid cut for definition, creating space for kick & snare or pushing the bass forward.
• Position 2: Wider mid-range for bass growl, adding bite to distorted tones, or cutting back for clarity.
• Position 3: Refined narrow mid-range for slap tones or increasing definition with distorted guitars.
• Position 4: Upper mid setting for bass pop or cutting fret noise.

10. MID LEVEL

Works with the MID MODE control. Increasing boosts the selected MID band; decreasing cuts it. The center setting bypasses the mid control.

11. TREBLE

Boosts higher frequencies for clarity. Decreasing removes higher frequencies for a subby, mellow sound.

12. TILT

Acts as 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. Ideal for fine-tuning tone.

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 colorization from input and EQ stages.

Controls - Rear Panel

The rear panel features the following connections and controls:

1. LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTOR

A speakON® compatible combo output producing 200W RMS into a 4 Ohms loudspeaker. Suitable for 1/4" Jack or NL2 connectors (NL2 recommended for higher continuous power). Ensure total impedance is 4 Ohms or greater. Lower impedance may damage the amplifier. Unconnected speaker outputs are safe. Laney recommends DBV212 or DBV410 cabinets.

2. DI OUT

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, PRE-VOLUME/DRIVE and EQ.

3. FX LOOP - SEND/RETURN

Sockets for connecting external effects devices. Use the SEND jack for the external device input and the RETURN jack for the external device output.

4. REMOTE

A 6.35mm jack socket for 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)

5. POWER SWITCH

The onboard switch provides power isolation to the incoming mains power. Set to OFF when not in use.

6. POWER INLET

A universal power input via an IEC C14 socket. Accepts 110V-240V AC supply; no voltage selection or adjustment is required. Use the provided mains cable.

7. SAFETY INFORMATION

Contains important information and the amplifier serial number. Ensure ventilation slots are not covered.

Connections

The diagram illustrates various connection scenarios for the Laney DBF200H bass amplifier head. It shows connections from the bass guitar's input to the amplifier's INPUT jack. The amplifier's DI OUT (XLR) can be connected to a mixing console or PA system. The AUX IN (3.5mm jack) connects to an audio source for jamming. The PHONES jack (3.5mm) is for headphones. The FX LOOP SEND/RETURN jacks connect to external effects units. The REMOTE jack (6.35mm) connects to a footswitch for channel selection. The LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTOR (speakON/Jack) connects to external speaker cabinets, such as the Laney DBV212-4 or DBV410-4.

Block Diagram

The block diagram outlines the signal path within the DBF200H amplifier. The signal enters via the INPUT and is processed through either the FET CHANNEL (with FET VOLUME) or the DRIVE CHANNEL (with DRIVE and DRIVE VOLUME). The CHANNEL SELECT SWITCH allows for switching between FET, DRIVE, or a mix. The signal then passes through PRESHAPE, EQ controls (BASS, MID MODE, MID LEVEL, TREBLE, TILT), and the FX LOOP (SEND/RETURN). A LIMITER is included before the final output stages, which include AMP MUTE, PHONES output, DI OUT (balanced XLR), and the LOUDSPEAKER OUT (speakON compatible).

Specifications

In the interest of continued development, Laney reserves the right to amend product specification without prior notification.

Dimensions

The amplifier head has the following approximate dimensions: Height: 194mm (7.6 inches), Width: 397mm (15.6 inches), Depth: 218mm (8.6 inches). The unit weight is 5.8Kg (12.8 lbs).

Safety and Warnings

To take full advantage of your new product and enjoy long and trouble-free performance, please read this owner's manual carefully, and keep it in a safe place for future reference.

MANUFACTURER: LANEY AMPLIFICATION. STEELPARK ROAD, COOMBS WOOD BUSINESS PARK WEST, HALESOWEN, B62 8HD, UK

1) Unpacking:

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

2) Amplifier Connection:

Establish a pattern for turning systems on and off. Turn on source equipment, mixers, and effects processors BEFORE turning on the amplifier. Set the amplifier's level control to minimum when turning it on. Turn down amplifier level controls and turn off the amplifier's power BEFORE turning off other equipment.

3) Cables:

Never use shielded or microphone cable for speaker connections, as it is not substantial enough for the amplifier load and could cause damage. Use good quality shielded cables for all other connections.

4) Servicing:

Do not attempt to service the product. 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 block any ventilation openings. Install according to manufacturer's instructions.

10) Do not install near heat sources like radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.

11) Class I construction apparatus must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs. Consult an electrician if the provided plug does not fit your outlet.

12) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs and where it exits the apparatus.

13) Only use attachments/accessories provided by the manufacturer.

14) Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer. Use caution when moving cart/apparatus combinations to avoid tip-over injuries.

15) The mains plug or appliance coupler is the disconnect device and must remain readily operable. Ensure easy access to these. Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.

16) Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required if the apparatus is damaged (e.g., power cord, liquid spillage, dropped unit, exposure to rain/moisture, or if it does not operate normally).

17) Never break off the ground pin. Connect only to the power supply type marked on the unit.

18) If mounting in an equipment rack, provide rear support.

19) UK Wiring Note:

If mains lead wire colors do not match plug terminals: Connect green/yellow wire to terminal marked 'E' (earth symbol). Connect blue wire to terminal marked 'N' or black. Connect brown wire to terminal marked 'L' or red.

20) Do not expose this electrical apparatus to dripping or splashing. Do not place objects containing liquids, such as vases, upon the apparatus.

21) Hearing Protection:

Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Follow OSHA permissible noise level exposures. Wear earplugs or protectors when operating this system to prevent hearing loss. In the EU, prolonged exposure above 85 dB(A) can cause hearing damage. Hearing protection is mandatory when operating equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels.

22) Tilting Mechanism:

If the appliance has a tilting mechanism, use it with caution on a level, stable surface. Do not operate on unstable platforms.

23) Symbols & Nomenclature:

• [CAUTION]: Indicates the presence of uninsulated 'Dangerous Voltage' within the enclosure, potentially posing a risk of electrical shock.
• [WARNING]: Indicates the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature.

Additional Safety Information:

[CAUTION] symbol: Indicates dangerous voltage within the enclosure. Do not open.

[WARNING] symbol: Indicates important operating and maintenance instructions.

CAUTION: Risk of electrical shock - DO NOT OPEN. 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. Read operating instructions for further warnings.

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. Changes or modifications not approved by Laney can void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits, providing reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations.

European Regulations Compliance: This product conforms to CE Mark, Low Voltage (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RoHS (2011/65/EU), ErP (2009/125/EU).

Simplified EU Declaration of Conformity: Full text available at: http://support.laney.co.uk/approvals

WEEE Directive: To reduce environmental damage, this product must not be disposed of with normal household waste. Take it to an approved recycling centre.

Manufacturer Contact: Laney Amplification, Steelpark Road, Coombswood Business Park West, Halesowen, B62 8HD, UK. For the latest information, please visit www.laney.co.uk.

In the interest of continued development, Laney reserves the right to amend product specification without prior notification.