Laney DBF50 Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier User Manual

Introduction

The DIGBETH Foundry Series offers a range of bass combo amplifiers designed for beginners to semi-professional musicians, drawing inspiration from the classic tones of the 1960s and 1970s. These combos combine vintage aesthetics with modern functionality and British engineering, providing excellent performance at an affordable price. The Laney DIGBETH Foundry Series aims to set a new standard for bass amplifiers. The DBF50 features a custom-designed HH Audio Blue Series driver, delivering bright, powerful, and modern bass tones. It is equipped with two foot-switchable channels: FET and Drive, offering ultimate tone control for versatile live performance and studio recording, blending vintage charm with modern performance.

Features

• 50 Watts RMS Power Output: Sufficient volume for practice sessions, small performances, and home recording.
• 10-inch HH Designed Professional Speaker: Delivers clear and powerful bass tones.
• Two Channels: FET channel for clean, fast response, and DRIVE channel for overdrive and grit, with a MIX option for blending.
• Pre-Shape Switch: Scoops the mid-frequencies while boosting highs and lows for a distinctive sound.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing 10.9kg (24 lbs), with a ported cabinet and removable grille for easy transport and placement in limited spaces.
• Top-Mount Control Panel: Features easily accessible control knobs for straightforward adjustments.
• Flexible FX Loop: For integrating external effects processors.
• DI Output (Pre): Easy recording via a DI output, providing a buffered signal before volume and EQ stages.
• Aux Input: 3.5mm auxiliary input for connecting external audio devices.
• Headphone Output: 3.5mm headphone output for quiet practice sessions.

Top Panel Controls

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

Control Descriptions:

• 1. Input: 6.35mm mono jack socket with 1MΩ input impedance for connecting active or passive bass guitars. Use a high-quality instrument cable for best performance.
• 2. FET Volume: Controls the level for the FET channel, which offers a clean, fast response and punchy low-end.
• 3. Channel Select Switch: Switches between the FET, DRIVE, or a MIX of FET and DRIVE channels. Remote switching is also possible.
• 4. Pre-Shape: Activates a mid-scoop EQ curve, boosting highs and lows.
• 5. Drive: Sets the pre-gain level for the DRIVE channel. Lower settings provide subtle overdrive and warmth, while higher settings increase gain for more grit and distortion.
• 6. Channel Indicator LED: Located to the right of the DRIVE control, this LED indicates the active channel (Green for FET, Red for MIX and DRIVE).
• 7. Volume (Drive Channel): Controls the post-gain level for the DRIVE channel, used in conjunction with the DRIVE control to achieve desired overdrive tones at the desired volume.
• 8. Bass: Boosts or cuts low frequencies, ideal for enhancing the subwoofer response. Cutting the lows helps reduce muddy tones or low-end feedback.
• 9. Mid: Boosting the Mid control enhances the mid-band, helping the bass guitar cut through a mix. Cutting the mids creates a scooped, modern tone.
• 10. Treble: Boosting the Treble control increases high-frequency clarity. Cutting the Treble reduces high frequencies for a mellower sound.
• 11. Tilt: A control for overall tonal balance. Turning it towards the high-frequency symbol reduces bass and boosts treble. Turning it towards the low-frequency symbol does the opposite. It's ideal for fine-tuning the overall tone for any situation.
• 12. Power Indicator LED: A red LED that illuminates when the unit is connected to mains power and the POWER switch is turned on.
• 13. Aux In: 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio sources, useful for jam sessions with backing tracks.
• 14. Phones: 3.5mm jack for monitoring or quiet practice.
• 15. Master Volume: Quickly adjusts the overall output level while maintaining the tone and character achieved from the input and EQ stages.

Rear Panel Connections

The rear panel houses essential connectivity options.

Connection Descriptions:

• 1. DI Out (PRE): Balanced XLR output for connecting to PA systems, recording consoles, stage monitor systems, or other external equipment. The DI signal is a buffered version of the instrument input, taken before the Volume/Drive and EQ stages.
• 2. FX Loop (Send/Return): These sockets are used to connect external effects units to the amplifier. Connect the input of the external unit to the SEND jack and the output of the external unit to the RETURN jack.
• 3. Remote: A 6.35mm jack socket for remote access to the channel select switch (3) on the front panel. The function of the footswitch depends on the position of the channel select switch. The Laney FS1-mini footswitch (sold separately) is recommended.
• 4. Safety Information: Displays important information and the amplifier's serial number. Ensure ventilation openings are not covered.
• 5. Power Input: Universal power input socket via IEC C14, compatible with 110V-240V AC power, requiring no voltage selection or adjustment. Use the supplied power cable.
• 6. Power Switch: The onboard switch provides power isolation from the mains. Turn the switch OFF when the DBF50 is not in use.

Connection Examples

The diagram illustrates typical connections:

• A bass guitar is connected to the Input jack.
• The amplifier's DI Out (PRE) is connected to a Mixing Console or PA system.
• External effects units can be connected via the FX Send and FX Return jacks.
• An audio source can be connected to the Aux In for playback.
• Headphones can be connected to the Phones jack for silent practice.
• A Laney FS1-mini footswitch can be connected to the Remote jack for channel switching.

Block Diagram

The block diagram shows the signal path within the amplifier:

• Input signal enters the amplifier.
• The signal can be routed through the Pre-Shape circuit or directly to the FET Channel (controlled by FET Volume).
• Alternatively, the signal can go to the Drive Channel (controlled by Drive and Drive Volume).
• A Channel Select switch allows choosing between FET, Drive, or a mix of both.
• The signal then passes through the EQ section (Bass, Mid, Treble, Tilt controls).
• The Master Volume controls the final output level.
• The signal is amplified and sent to the Loudspeaker.
• Auxiliary input feeds into the signal path.
• FX Send and Return loops are integrated into the signal path.
• A Headphone output is available for monitoring.

Specifications

Laney reserves the right to modify product specifications without prior notice for continuous development.

Dimensions (mm)

The amplifier's external dimensions are approximately 435mm (Height) x 401mm (Width) x 301mm (Depth).

Safety Warnings

To ensure safe and long-term use of this product, please read this manual carefully and keep it for future reference.

• Unpacking: Check for any shipping damage. Keep the original packaging for potential returns or repairs.
• Connecting the Amplifier: Follow proper power on/off procedures to prevent damage from loud pops. Turn on source equipment first, then the amplifier. Turn off the amplifier first, then source equipment. Ensure all level controls are at minimum when powering on/off.
• Cables: Do not use shielded cables for amp-to-speaker connections, as they may not handle the load adequately. Use high-quality shielded cables for other connections.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service the product yourself. Refer all servicing to an authorized dealer.
• Warnings and Instructions: Adhere to all warnings and instructions displayed on the unit.
• Water and Moisture: Do not use the unit near water or expose it to rain or moisture.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Install according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Heat Sources: Do not place the unit near heat sources like radiators or stoves.
• Power Connection: Connect to a properly grounded mains socket. Do not modify plugs. If the plug does not fit your socket, consult an electrician.
• Power Cord: Protect the power cord from being pinched or trapped, especially at the plug, socket, and where it exits the unit.
• Accessories: Use only manufacturer-supplied accessories.
• Stability: If using with carts or stands, ensure they are manufacturer-specified or suitable for the unit. Be cautious of tipping hazards.
• Accessibility: The power plug and switch should remain easily accessible. Unplug during lightning storms or prolonged periods of non-use.
• Servicing Requirements: Refer servicing to qualified personnel if the power cord/plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled, objects have fallen into the unit, the unit has been dropped, exposed to rain/moisture, or does not operate normally.
• Earth Pin: Never break the earth pin. Connect only to the specified power supply.
• Rack Mounting: Use rear support if mounting in a rack.
• Liquids: Keep the unit away from water and do not place liquid-filled objects on it.
• Hearing Protection: Prolonged exposure to high sound levels can cause hearing loss. Use hearing protection if exposed to excessive noise.
• Tilt-Back Feature: Use the tilt-back feature with caution on stable, level surfaces. Do not operate on unstable surfaces like desks or shelves.
• Safety Symbols: Refer to the safety symbols used in the product and manual.
• Compliance: The product complies with FCC (USA), CE (Europe), and UK CA regulations.
• Disposal: Dispose of the product responsibly according to local recycling regulations, not with household waste.