Laney DBF30 DIGBETH FOUNDRY Bass Amplifier
Introduction
The DIGBETH Foundry Series offers a range of bass combo amplifiers designed for musicians from beginners to semi-professionals, built upon Laney's rich bass heritage. Inspired by the aesthetic of classic 60s and 70s tones, these combos combine vintage appeal with modern functionality and British engineering, redefining affordability without compromising performance. The Laney DIGBETH Foundry Series aims to set a new standard for accessible bass amplification. These amplifiers are designed by musicians, for musicians, to enhance creativity across various playing styles, from clean tones to gritty overdrive. The DBF30 is particularly suited for players seeking a portable practice amp without sacrificing sound quality.
Features
- 30 Watts RMS Power Output: Sufficient volume for practice sessions and small performances.
- 8-inch HH Designed Professional Speaker: Delivers clear, powerful bass tones.
- Switchable Overdrive Circuit: Allows players to add a gritty overdrive tone with a simple switch for enhanced tonal versatility.
- Pre-shape Switch: Scoops the mid-frequencies while boosting highs and lows for a 'scooped' sound.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing only 8.3kg (18 lbs), with a tilt-back cabinet for easy transport and optimal positioning in limited spaces.
- Top-Mount Control Panel: Features user-friendly control knobs for easy access and adjustments.
- Connectivity: Includes a 3.5mm Aux input for connecting external audio devices and a 3.5mm headphone output for quiet practice sessions.
These features make the DBF30 a versatile and user-friendly amplifier for all levels of bassists.
Controls
Top Panel
1. Input: A 6.35mm (1/4") mono jack socket with 1MΩ input impedance for connecting active or passive bass guitars. Use a high-quality instrument cable for best performance.
2. Volume: Controls the overall signal level, delivering clean, responsive tones with punchy lows.
3. Drive: Applies a level of DRIVE to the signal path. Engaging DRIVE adds a subtle, characteristic warm sound via mild overdrive.
4. Pre-shape: Activates a tone-shaping circuit that scoops mid-frequencies and boosts highs and lows.
5. Bass: EQ control to boost or cut low frequencies, ideal for enhancing sub-bass or cleaning up muddy tones.
6. Mid: EQ control to boost or cut mid-frequencies, helping the bass guitar cut through a mix or achieve a modern, scooped tone.
7. Treble: EQ control to boost or cut high frequencies, affecting clarity and brightness.
8. Tilt: A control for overall tone balance. Turning it adjusts the balance between bass and treble frequencies.
9. Power Indicator: A red LED that illuminates when the amplifier is connected to mains power and the POWER switch is ON.
10. Aux In: A 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio sources, useful for jamming along to tracks.
11. Phones: A 3.5mm jack for monitoring or quiet practice.
Rear Panel
1. Safety Information: Contains important information and the amplifier's serial number. Ensure ventilation openings are not obstructed.
2. Power Inlet: A universal power input via an IEC C14 socket, compatible with 110V-240V AC mains power, requiring no voltage selection or adjustment.
3. Power Switch: An onboard switch providing power isolation from the mains input. Turn the switch OFF when not in use.
Connections
Diagram Description: The top panel of the amplifier is shown with connections. A bass guitar is plugged into the 'INPUT' jack. A smartphone labeled 'AUDIO SOURCE' is connected via a 3.5mm cable to the 'AUX IN' jack. A pair of headphones is connected to the 'PHONES' jack.
Block Diagram
Diagram Description: The signal path starts with 'INPUT' and 'AUX' inputs. These feed into a section with 'VOLUME', 'PRESHAPE', and 'EQ' (BASS, MID, TREBLE, TILT) controls. This is followed by a 'DRIVE' stage. The signal then passes through a 'LIMITER' and an 'AMP' stage, which can output to 'LOUDSPEAKER' or 'PHONES' (with 'AMP MUTE' functionality).
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DBF30 |
| Name | DIGBETH FOUNDRY DBF30 |
| Type | Bass Amplifier Combo, Bass Reflex Design |
| Frequency Response (-10dB) | 65Hz - 18kHz |
| Max SPL (1 metre) | 112 dB SPL (Continuous), 115 dB SPL (Peak) |
| Power Output | 60W RMS (30W Continuous) |
| Amp Type | Class D, passive convection cooled |
| Channels | 1 x Channel with Overdrive Feature |
| Input | 6.35mm (1/4") Jack Socket Instrument Input, 3.5mm Stereo Aux Input |
| Input Impedance | 1MΩ |
| Output | 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack |
| Controls | Volume, Pre-shape Switch, Drive Switch, Bass, Mid, Treble, Tilt Controls |
| EQ | Pre-shape, Bass (±12dB), Mid (±12dB), Treble (±12dB), Tilt Control |
| Indicators | Power LED |
| Woofer | 8" HH Blue 0801030-4 Professional Woofer |
| Cabinet | 12mm MDF cabinet, precision engineered for stability and acoustic performance |
| Handle | Steel-reinforced strap handle mounted on top for comfortable and easy carrying |
| Finish | Durable black vinyl with steel corners for enhanced protection |
| Power | Internal Universal 100-240V~ 50/60Hz, Switching Mode Power Supply. IEC C14 Input Connector |
| Power Consumption | Typical 25W, Max 85W |
| Unit Dimensions (HWD) | 384 x 355 x 265mm (15.1" x 14" x 10.4") |
| Unit Weight | 8.3kg (18.3 lbs) |
| Carton Dimensions (HxWxD) | 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 |
Laney reserves the right to modify product specifications without prior notice as part of its continuous development policy.
Dimensions (mm)
Diagram Description: Multiple views of the amplifier are shown with dimensions. Key dimensions include Height: 384mm, Width: 355mm, Depth: 265mm.
Safety Warnings
General Operation: Read this manual thoroughly before use. Check for any shipping damage upon unpacking. Keep the manual for future reference. Avoid connecting/disconnecting cables while the amplifier is powered on or off; always power on instruments and sources first, then the amplifier, and power off the amplifier first, then sources. Use only manufacturer-supplied accessories and approved carts/stands. Protect power cords from being pinched or walked on. Ensure easy access to the power plug and switch. Unplug the unit during thunderstorms or extended periods of non-use. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not block ventilation openings. Do not place near heat sources. Use only on stable, level surfaces; the tilt-back feature requires caution. Avoid placing liquids on the unit. Prolonged exposure to high sound levels can cause hearing damage; consider hearing protection.
Electrical Safety: Connect to a grounded mains socket. Do not modify the plug or use adapters that bypass grounding. Ensure the power cord is not damaged.
Compliance: This product complies with FCC Part 15 (Class B digital device) regulations. It may cause interference with radio or television reception; adjust antenna placement, distance, or power outlet if issues occur. The product also complies with relevant EU directives (CE marking, Low Voltage, EMC, RoHS, ErP) and UKCA regulations. The full EU Declaration of Conformity is available online. Dispose of this product responsibly according to local laws and regulations; do not discard with household waste. Use approved recycling centers.
