Laney DBF200H Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier Head

Introduction

The Laney DIGBETH Foundry Series is built upon Laney's rich bass heritage, offering a range of bass amplifier heads designed for beginners and semi-professional musicians. These amps combine a retro aesthetic inspired by the classic tones of the 60s and 70s with ultra-modern features and British engineering, redefining affordability without compromising performance.

The DIGBETH Foundry Series aims to set a new standard for affordable bass amplification. Laney cares about music and musicians, with these cabinets designed by experts. The Laney DIGBETH Foundry Series embodies heritage, innovation, and affordability, creating an unparalleled product. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gigging musician, these amps are designed to meet all your needs and help you stand out in the music scene. Now, everyone can experience a new standard in bass amplification.

The DIGBETH Foundry Series amps offer a variety of features to suit all playing styles, allowing you to unleash your creativity. From pristine clean tones to gritty overdrive, these amps provide the tools to shape your unique sound. Join the growing DIGBETH artist community and help set a new standard in music.

The DBF200H bass head masterfully blends ultra-modern features with a retro design, all in a compact form factor. It's an ideal choice for gigging musicians who require reliability, power, portability, and exceptional tone.

Features

• 200 Watts RMS Output: Delivers ample power for rehearsals and medium-sized gigs.
• Dual Channels: FET and Drive channels, with a Mix option for blending clean and driven tones, offering versatility from pristine to aggressive sounds.
• Pre-Shape Switch: Provides a mid-scoop for a "wah" effect, boosting treble and bass. This can be remotely switched.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing only 5.8 kg (13 lbs), it's easy to transport and built for durability.
• FX Loop: Adds flexibility for integrating external effects pedals.
• DI Output (Pre): Allows for easy direct recording.
• Auxiliary Input: A 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio sources, ideal for playing along with tracks.
• Headphone Output: A 3.5mm jack for silent practice or monitoring.
• These features make the DBF200H a versatile and user-friendly bass amplifier head, designed for bassists seeking a balance of power, portability, and tonal flexibility when using their preferred cabinets.

Controls - Front Panel

The front panel features a comprehensive array of controls for shaping your tone:

• 1. Input: A 6.35mm (1/4 inch) mono jack with a 1MΩ input impedance, suitable for active or passive basses. Use a quality instrument cable for best results.
• 2. FET Volume: Controls the level of the FET channel. This channel offers a clean, fast response with tight low-end.
• 3. Channel Select Switch: Toggles between the FET, DRIVE, or a blend of FET and DRIVE channels. Can also be remotely controlled.
• 4. Drive: Sets the pre-gain level for the DRIVE channel. At lower settings, the DRIVE channel offers mild overdrive for a unique warm tone. At higher settings, the preamp is pushed harder for a more aggressive growl and distortion.
• 5. Channel Indicators: LEDs to the right of the DRIVE control indicate the active channel. FET is Green, MIX and DRIVE are Red.
• 6. Volume: Controls the post-gain level for the DRIVE channel. Works in conjunction with the DRIVE control to achieve desired overdrive tones at appropriate volumes.
• 7. Pre-Shape: A rotary switch that engages a mid-scoop, boosting treble and bass frequencies.
  • PRESHAPE Active: Engages the mid-scoop, boosting treble and bass frequencies.
  • PRESHAPE Disabled: Pre-Shape is bypassed.
• 8. Bass: Adjusts the low frequencies. Increasing adds bass, reducing tightens the low end or reduces boominess.
• 9. Mid Mode: A 4-position rotary switch that selects one of four EQ voicings, working in conjunction with the MID LEVEL control.
  • Position 1: Narrow mid-cut, ideal for cutting through a mix with drums, creating space for kick and snare.
  • Position 2: Wider mid-control, suitable for a bass growl or adding bite to distorted tones.
  • Position 3: Narrower mid-scoop, similar to Position 2 but more refined, useful for slap bass or enhancing clarity with distorted guitar.
  • Position 4: Mid-boost, ideal for accentuating bass punch or reducing fret noise.
• 10. Mid Level: Works with the MID MODE control to adjust the level of the selected mid-frequency. The center position bypasses the mid control.
• 11. Treble: Adjusts the high frequencies. Increasing adds clarity and sparkle; decreasing softens the tone.
• 12. Tilt: Acts as a master tone control. Turning towards treble reduces bass and boosts treble; turning towards bass does the opposite. Useful for fine-tuning the overall tone.
• 13. Power Indicator Light: A red LED that illuminates when the amplifier is connected to the mains and the power switch is ON.
• 14. Aux In: A 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio sources, for playing along with tracks.
• 15. Phones: A 3.5mm jack for silent practice or monitoring.
• 16. Master Volume: Allows for quick adjustment of the overall output level while retaining the tone and character set by the input and EQ controls.

Controls - Rear Panel

The rear panel provides essential connections and power:

• 1. Loudspeaker Connectors: speakON® combination output for 200W RMS into a 4 Ohm speaker. Compatible with 1/4 inch jacks or NL2 connectors, with NL2 being recommended for higher continuous power handling. Ensure the total impedance connected to the speaker output is 4 Ohms or greater. Connecting to an impedance lower than 4 Ohms may damage the amplifier. The speaker output can be left unconnected without damaging the DBF200H. Laney recommends the DBV212 or DBV410 cabinets.
• 2. DI Out: Balanced XLR output for connecting to external systems like PA systems, recording consoles, or stage monitors. The DI signal is a buffered version of the instrument input, pre-volume/drive and EQ.
• 3. FX Loop (Send/Return): Jacks for connecting external effects units. Use the Send jack for the input of the external device and the Return jack for the output of the external device back to the amplifier.
• 4. Remote: A 6.35mm (1/4 inch) jack for remote channel switching using a footswitch (Laney FS1-Mini recommended, not included). The function depends on the Channel Select switch position.
• 5. Power Switch: Isolates the amplifier from the mains input. Turn off when not in use.
• 6. Power Socket: IEC C14 socket for universal power input, accepting 110V-240V AC without voltage selection. Use the provided power cord.
• 7. Safety Information: Displays important information and the amplifier's serial number. Ensure ventilation slots are not obstructed.

Connections Diagram

A diagram illustrates various connection possibilities:

• The front panel's INPUT jack connects to a bass guitar.
• The front panel's AUX IN (3.5mm) connects to an AUDIO SOURCE.
• The front panel's PHONES (3.5mm) connects to HEADPHONES.
• The front panel's FX SEND/LINE OUT connects to the INPUT of an OUTBOARD FX unit.
• The FX RETURN jack connects to the OUTPUT of the OUTBOARD FX unit.
• The DI OUT (XLR) connects to a MIXING CONSOLE or TO HOUSE PA.
• The REMOTE (FS1) jack connects to a LANEY FS1-MINI footswitch.
• The LOUDSPEAKER output connects to a speaker cabinet (e.g., Laney DBV212-4 or DBV410-4).

Block Diagram

A block diagram shows the signal path:

• Input signal goes through FET VOLUME, DRIVE CHANNEL (with DRIVE, MIX, PRESHAPE, MODE, LEVEL controls), then to MASTER VOLUME.
• The signal can also be routed through the FX SEND/RETURN loop.
• The signal is then processed by a LIMITER and AMP section before reaching the LOUDSPEAKER output, DI OUT, and PHONES output.
• The AMP MUTE function is also indicated.

Specifications

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

Dimensions

The amplifier head has the following dimensions:

• Height: 194 mm (7.6 inches)
• Width: 397 mm (15.6 inches)
• Depth: 218 mm (8.6 inches)

Visual representations of the amplifier from different angles, with dimensions clearly marked, are provided in the original document.

Safety and Warnings

Please read the user manual carefully to ensure safe and long-lasting performance. Retain for future reference.

• Unpacking: Inspect for any damage incurred during transit. Repack and consult your dealer if damage is found. Keep original packaging for potential returns.
• Amplifier Connection: Follow a specific power-on/off sequence to avoid damage. Turn on source equipment first, then the amplifier. Turn off the amplifier first, then source equipment. Ensure level controls are at minimum when powering on/off.
• Cables: Do not use shielded or microphone cables for speaker connections; they are not rated for amplifier loads. Use quality shielded cables for other connections.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service the product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Warnings: Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
• Water: Do not use near water.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Install according to manufacturer instructions.
• Heat Sources: Do not install near heat sources like radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing equipment.
• Class I Equipment: Connect to a power outlet with a protective earth connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs.
• Power Cord Protection: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs and convenience outlets.
• Accessories: Use only manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
• Trolleys/Stands: Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the equipment. Exercise caution when moving cart/equipment combinations to avoid injury from tip-over.
• Power Plug: The power plug or appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device and should remain readily operable.
• Unplugging: Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
• Servicing: Refer servicing to qualified service personnel when the apparatus has been damaged in any way.
• Grounding Pin: Do not break off the grounding pin. Connect only to the type of power source marked near the power cord.
• Rack Mounting: If installed in a rack, provide rear support.
• UK Specific: Wiring color codes in the power cord must match terminals in the plug.
• Liquids: Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing, and do not place objects filled with liquids (e.g., vases) on the apparatus.
• Hearing Protection: Exposure to extremely high noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss. Individual susceptibility varies, but prolonged exposure to sufficient loudness can cause hearing loss. OSHA limits are provided. Wear hearing protection if exposure exceeds these limits. It is recommended that all persons exposed to high sound pressure level equipment wear hearing protection.
• Tilt-Back Feature: If the amplifier has a tilt-back mechanism, use it on a level, stable surface. Do not operate on unstable platforms.
• Symbols: Symbols and terms used in the product and manual are to alert the operator to areas requiring special attention.

Regulatory Information:

• CAUTION: Indicates potential risk of electric shock from uninsulated parts inside the product.
• WARNING: Indicates important operating and maintenance instructions found in the accompanying literature.
• WARNING: Risk of electric shock - Do not open. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. Do not expose to rain or moisture.
• 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, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
• CE Marking: Complies with European directives for Low Voltage, EMC, RoHS, and ErP. A simplified EU Declaration of Conformity is available online.
• UKCA Marking: Complies with relevant UK regulations for electrical equipment, EMC, RoHS, and energy eco-design.
• WEEE Directive: Do not dispose of this product with general household waste at the end of its life. Send it to an approved recycling center according to WEEE directives.