Laney LA30BL Black Country Customs Guitar Amplifier User Manual

Philosophy

The Black Country Customs range is built on a foundation of meticulous attention to detail and extensive playing tests, refined by a small team of dedicated players with years of experience in tone shaping. Each Black Country Customs product uses only the finest materials and construction techniques, aiming to produce the perfect tone from the outset. This includes hand-selecting speakers for each application to deliver outstanding tonal quality. The chosen speakers are often hand-built using vintage-style materials, widely recognised for providing the best guitar tones. All speakers, especially hand-built ones, require several hours of playing to bed in and produce their optimum sound. This attention to detail, high-quality raw materials, and the best construction techniques result in the finest sounding amplifiers and cabinets available. We believe you will agree.

Important Safety Instructions

General Warnings:

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

Basic Cautions:

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions safe.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. An apparatus with Class I construction shall be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories provided by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with a 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.
13. 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 in conjunction with this unit thus making it readily operable. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when 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.
15. Never break off the ground pin. Connect only to a power supply of the type marked on the unit adjacent to the power supply cord.
16. If this product is to be mounted in an equipment rack, rear support should be provided.
17. Note for UK only: If the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this unit do not correspond with the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
    • a) The wire that is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the terminal that is marked by the letter E, the earth symbol, coloured green or coloured green and yellow.
    • b) The wire that is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal that is marked with the letter N or the colour black.
    • c) The wire that is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal that is marked with the letter L or the colour red.
18. This electrical apparatus should not be exposed to dripping or splashing and care should be taken not to place objects containing liquids, such as vases, upon the apparatus.
19. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause a permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a sufficient time. The U.S. Government's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the following permissible noise level exposures:

    According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits could result in some hearing loss. Earplugs or protectors to the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating this amplification system in order to prevent a permanent hearing loss, if exposure is in excess of the limits as set forth above. To ensure against potentially dangerous 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 protectors while this unit is in operation.

    Table 1: Permissible Noise Level Exposures

    Duration Per Day in Hours	Sound Level dBA, slow response
    8	90
    6	92
    4	95
    3	97
    2	100
    1½	102
    1	105
    ½ or less	115

Diagram Description (Page 3): The diagram shows a fuse holder with numbered components: 1. Flex retaining clip, 2. Neutral, 3. Earth, 4. Live, 5. Fuse.

Front Panel Controls and Inputs

The Laney LA30BL features a comprehensive control panel for tone shaping and operation.

Diagram Description (Page 5): The front panel features the "LANEY SOUND" logo. Controls are numbered 1 through 10:

1. Power Switch: Should only be operated with a load connected to the amplifier, such as a speaker cabinet or a dummy load.
2. Standby Switch: Allows the amplifier to warm up for approximately one minute before switching to the ON position.
3. Power Indicator Light: Shows that the amplifier is powered on.
4. Presence: Adjusts the upper mid-range frequencies of the output. A setting of "0" is a good starting point.
5. Bass: Adjusts the low-end response of the signal. A setting of "5" is a good starting point.
6. Middle: Adjusts the mid-range frequency response. A setting of "5" is a good starting point.
7. Treble: Adjusts the high-frequency content of the signal. A setting of "5" is a good starting point.
8. Gain: Adjusts the level of gain/distortion in the signal, also contributing to the overall listening level of the amplifier.
9. Bass Input 1: Offers a prominent low-end response.
10. Bass Input 2: Features similar tonal characteristics to Bass Input 1 but with a lower gain setting.
11. Treble Input 1: Offers a prominent high-end response.
12. Treble Input 2: Features similar tonal characteristics to Treble Input 1 but with a lower gain setting.

Channel Jumping: Players can blend the tonal and gain characteristics of each input on the LA30BL by using channel jumping. Connect your guitar to one input (e.g., Bass Input 1). Then, use a standard patch cable to connect the second input (e.g., Bass Input 2) to the input of the first channel. The choice of input 1 or 2 depends on how much gain you desire. This allows for more treble in the signal without losing the bass response from the Bass Input. Channel jumping can produce some great sounds, so experiment.

Rear Panel Connections

Diagram Description (Page 6): The rear panel provides connections for speakers, power, and fuses.

• Speaker Outputs: Three 1/4" jack sockets for connecting various speaker cabinets. It is crucial to match the speaker impedance to the amplifier's settings to avoid reducing performance or damaging the unit. Always operate the amplifier with a load connected. Using incorrect impedance settings can lead to irreversible damage.
• Speaker Wiring: Speaker wiring must comply with Class 2 wiring standards. Connections should be made by qualified personnel according to local building regulations.
• HT Fuse: This fuse disconnects the high-voltage DC supply to the tubes in the event of a fault. Only use the specified correct size and rating. If a fuse blows, it indicates a fault that requires servicing by qualified personnel. Never use a higher-rated fuse, as this can cause irreparable damage.
• Power Inlet: Connects to your mains power supply. Ensure the voltage displayed on the rear panel is suitable for your country.
• Main Fuse: This drawer contains the main safety fuse for the unit. It protects the amplifier from damage by disconnecting the main power supply in case of a fault. Only use the specified correct size and rating. If this fuse blows, it indicates a fault requiring immediate service by qualified personnel. Never use a higher-rated fuse, as this can cause severe, irreparable damage and a serious fire hazard. The fuse rating is detailed in the specifications section and printed on the rear of the amplifier. A spare fuse is located in the fuse drawer for use in case of a fault.

Tube Amplifier Care and Longevity

Tube amplifiers, like the LA30BL, offer a warm and rich tone but require more care than solid-state amplifiers due to the nature of vacuum tubes.

• Tube Fragility: Vacuum tubes are made of glass and are fragile. Rough handling, such as being thrown around, can easily damage them.
• Impedance Matching: Ensure the speaker impedance matches the amplifier's settings. Incorrect impedance can reduce output power, degrade sound quality, or even cause amplifier failure and reduce tube life.
• Warm-up: Allow the amplifier to warm up to room temperature before turning it on, especially after exposure to cold. Sudden temperature changes can cause the glass tube envelopes to crack.
• Cool-down: Allow the amplifier to cool down before moving it after use. Hot tubes are more susceptible to damage. Tube lifespan depends on factors like operating temperature, intensity, frequency, and vibration. While there's no specific replacement interval, tubes should be replaced if performance deteriorates.
• Troubleshooting Tube Issues: Common issues with preamp tubes can manifest as crackling, hissing, humming, or microphonic effects. Other symptoms include a lack of punch, extremely high or low tones, or low-level hum. Internal faults can also blow the HT fuse. For accurate diagnosis and replacement tubes, consult your dealer.
• Replacing Tubes: Turn off the unit and unplug the power cord. Allow tubes to cool down. Remove the rear panel screws. Preamp tubes are protected by shields; to remove, push down, gently twist counter-clockwise, and pull out. Output tubes have spring retainers that must be removed before pulling out the tubes. When installing new tubes, ensure all pins are correctly aligned.
• Powering Up/Down Sequence: To prevent damage, follow a specific sequence for powering the system on and off. Connect and power all system components (effects processors, pedals, etc.) before switching on the amplifier's standby switch. Turn on your guitar amplifier last, with the volume control set to minimum to prevent any transient signals from reaching the speakers.

Technical Specifications

LA30BL Specifications:

• Supply Voltage: ~100V, ~120V, ~220-230V, ~240V 50/60Hz Factory Option (adjustments may be made by qualified Laney approved service personnel only)
• HT Fuse: T500mA L
• Power Consumption (Max): 150W
• Output Power Rating: 30W RMS Continuous
• Input Jacks:
  • Bass/Treble channel socket 1: Input impedance 1MOhm, Sensitivity: 15mV
  • Bass/Treble channel socket 2: Input impedance 140KOhms, Sensitivity: 30mV
• Loudspeaker Outputs: 1*16 Ohm / 1*8 Ohm / 1* 4 Ohm
• Features: Bass Channel, Treble Channel, Presence Control, Bass, Middle & Treble Controls, Gain Control, Rugged Plywood Carcass
• Dimensions (H*W*D)(mm): 220*620*220
• Weights: Unit 10.5Kg, Packed 12.5Kg
• Manufacturer: Laney Electronics Ltd

Block Diagram

Diagram Description (Page 10): The block diagram illustrates the internal signal path of the LA30BL amplifier.

• Channels: The amplifier features separate Bass and Treble channels, each with its own gain control.
• Signal Path: The signal passes through various stages including input buffers, EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble), Presence control, and preamp tubes (V1A, V1B, V2A, V2B).
• Power Amplification: The signal is then amplified by power tubes (V3A, V3B, V4, V5) before reaching the output transformer.
• Tube Types:
  • Preamp Tubes (V1-V3): 12AX7AC7
  • Power Tubes (V4-V5): EL34B-STR
• Output Transformer: The output transformer matches the impedance of the power tubes to the speaker load.
• Speaker Outputs: Connections are provided for 4, 8, and 16 Ohm speaker cabinets.

FCC and CE Compliance

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference received, that may cause undesired operation.

Warning: Changes or modification to the equipment not approved by Laney can void the user's authority to use the equipment.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for 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 and 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.

This product conforms to the requirements of the following European Regulations, Directives & Rules:

• CE Mark (93/68/EEC)
• Low Voltage (2014/35/EU)
• EMC (2014/30/EU)
• RoHS (EU2011/65/EU)
• ErP (2009/125/EU)

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

Notes

This section is for user notes.