Laney DBF200H Digbeth Foundry Bass Amplifier Head User Manual

Introduction

The DIGBETH Foundry series builds on Laney's rich bass heritage, offering a range of bass combos designed for both beginners and semi-professionals. With a vintage aesthetic inspired by the classic tones of the 60s and 70s, combined with ultra-modern functionality and British engineering, these combinations redefine affordability without compromising performance. The DIGBETH Foundry series is destined to become the new standard in affordable bass amplifiers. Laney cares about music and musicians. Digbeth Foundry amplifiers are designed by experts, not committees. They are made for playing. The DIGBETH Foundry series from Laney combines tradition, innovation, and affordable pricing in an unparalleled package. Whether you're just starting out or looking for reliable gigging equipment, these amplifiers offer everything you need to make your mark on music. Now everyone can experience the new standard in bass amplification. The DIGBETH Foundry series empowers your creativity with features that adapt to all playing styles. From clean tones to powerful overdrives, these amplifiers provide the tools to craft your unique sound. Join the growing community of DIGBETH artists making new milestones in music. The DBF200H bass head combines ultra-modern functionality with a vintage-inspired design in a compact format. The DBF200H is the ideal choice for gigging musicians who need a reliable, powerful head that delivers exceptional sound in a portable format.

Features

• 200 Watts RMS Output Power: Provides substantial power suitable for rehearsals and medium-sized gigs.
• Two Channels: FET and Drive, with mix options for a powerful, clear sound.
• PreShape Switch: Offers a mid-frequency scoop, boosting treble and bass. Switchable mid-voicing.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing 5.8 kg (13 lb), it offers easy portability without compromising durability.
• FX Loop: For enhanced flexibility.
• DI Out (Pre): For easy recording.
• Includes a 3.5mm Aux In 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, designed for bassists seeking a balance of power, portability, and tonal flexibility when using cabinets of their choice.

Controls - Front Panel

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

• 1. Input: 6.35mm (1/4") mono jack connector with 1MΩ input impedance for connecting active or passive basses. Use a good quality instrument cable for optimal performance.
• 2. FET Volume: Controls the level of the FET channel. This channel offers a clean, fast, articulate response with solid bass frequencies.
• 3. Channel Select Switch: Switches between FET, DRIVE, or a combination of both channels. Can also be changed remotely.
• 4. Drive: Adjusts the preamp gain for the DRIVE channel. At low settings, the DRIVE channel provides subtle saturation for a warm, characteristic tone. At high settings, the DRIVE channel preamp is pushed to its maximum, delivering more grit and distortion.
• 5. Channel Indicator LED: Located to the right of the DRIVE control, this LED indicates the active channel. It is Green for FET and Red for MIX and DRIVE.
• 6. Volume: Controls the post-gain level of the DRIVE channel. Use this in conjunction with the DRIVE control to achieve the perfect overdrive tone at the appropriate volume.
• 7. PreShape: Active: Boosts treble and bass frequencies while cutting mids. Disabled: PreShape is off.
• 8. Bass: Increases low frequencies for a fuller, more powerful sound, ideal for enhancing the subwoofer. Decreasing this control reduces low frequencies, useful for controlling bass feedback or cleaning up a muddy sound.
• 9. Mid Mode: A 4-position rotary switch providing access to four pre-configured EQ voicings. The selected position works in conjunction with the MID LEVEL control.
  • Position 1: A narrow low-mid cut, ideal for adding definition to bass when playing with a drummer. Pull back for kick and snare drum space, push forward to push the bass in front of the drums.
  • Position 2: A wider mid-range control, excellent for bringing out the growl in your bass, useful for adding punch to distorted tones or for scooping and adding clarity to the mid-range.
  • Position 3: A narrow mid-range setting, similar to Position 2 but more refined and less aggressive. Good for pulling the bass forward for a slap tone or increasing definition when playing distorted guitars.
  • Position 4: A high-mid setting, excellent for focusing on the punch of a bass or reducing fret noise.
• 10. Mid Level: Works with the MID MODE control. Increasing it boosts the selected MID band; decreasing it reduces it. A centre setting bypasses the mid control, regardless of the MID MODE setting.
• 11. Treble: Increases higher frequencies for greater clarity in the treble. Decrease the control to reduce higher frequencies for a smooth, subtle sound.
• 12. Tilt: Functions as an overall tone balance control. Turning towards the treble clef reduces bass frequencies and increases treble. Turning towards the bass clef produces the opposite effect. This control is perfect for fine-tuning the overall tone and ensuring correct performance in any situation.
• 13. Power Indicator: A red LED that illuminates when the amplifier is connected to the mains power and the POWER switch is in the ON position.
• 14. Aux In: 3.5mm connector for connecting an external sound source. Useful for jamming along with audio tracks.
• 15. Phones: 3.5mm connector for monitoring or silent practice.
• 16. Master Volume: Allows quick adjustment of the overall output level while maintaining the tone and coloration achieved in the input and EQ stages.

Controls - Rear Panel

The rear panel provides essential connections for speaker output, external devices, and power:

• 1. Loudspeaker Connector: A speakON® compatible combo output delivering 200W RMS into a 4-ohm speaker. Compatible with 6.35mm (1/4") jack or NL2 connectors; NL2 connectors offer higher continuous power and are the recommended option. Ensure the total impedance connected to the speaker output is 4 ohms or higher. An impedance lower than 4 ohms could damage the amplifier stage. It is fine to leave speaker outputs unconnected as this will not cause damage to the DBF200H. Laney recommends the DBV212 or DBV410 cabinets to complement the DBF200H amplifier.
• 2. DI Out: A balanced XLR output for connecting to an external device, such as a PA system, recording console, or stage monitoring system. The DI signal is essentially a post-preamp, post-volume/drive/EQ version of the guitar signal.
• 3. FX Loop - Send/Return: These jacks are used to connect external effects devices to your amplifier. Use the Send connector to connect the input of your external device and the Return connector to connect the output of that device back to your amplifier.
• 4. Remote: A 6.35mm (1/4") jack provides remote access to the CHANNEL SELECT switch (3) on the front panel. The pedal function depends on the channel selector position. A Laney FS1-Mini footswitch (not included) is recommended.
  • Remote Function Mapping:
  • Top (FS1 Tip): UNIT -> FET (Channel LED: OFF)
  • Middle (FS1 Ring): MIX -> DRIVE (Channel LED: GREEN)
  • Bottom (FS1 Sleeve): FET -> DRIVE (Channel LED: RED)
• 5. Power Switch: The integrated switch isolates mains power. Turn the switch off when not in use.
• 6. Power Input: Universal power input via an IEC C14 socket. Accepts AC power from 110V to 240V; no voltage selection or adjustment is necessary. Use the supplied power cable.
• 7. Safety Information: Important information and the amplifier's serial number. Ensure ventilation slots are not covered.

Connections

The connection diagram illustrates how to interface the DBF200H with various audio equipment:

• To Speaker Cabinet: Connect the amplifier's speaker output (speakON® or 1/4" jack) to a compatible bass cabinet. Ensure the cabinet's impedance is 4 ohms or higher.
• To PA/Mixing Console: Use the DI Out (XLR) to send a balanced signal to a mixing console or PA system for live performance or recording. This signal is post-preamp.
• External Effects: Connect effects pedals or rack units via the FX Loop (Send and Return) jacks to integrate them into your signal chain.
• Audio Source: Connect an external audio player (e.g., smartphone, MP3 player) to the 3.5mm Aux In jack for practice or jamming along with backing tracks.
• Headphones: Connect headphones to the 3.5mm Phones jack for silent practice sessions.
• Footswitch: Connect a Laney FS1-Mini footswitch (sold separately) to the Remote jack to remotely control channel switching.

Block Diagram

The block diagram shows the internal signal flow of the DBF200H amplifier:

Signal Path: Input -> FET Channel (Volume) / Drive Channel (Drive Gain, Volume) -> Channel Select/Mix -> PreShape/EQ (Bass, Mid Mode, Mid Level, Treble, Tilt) -> FX Send/Return -> Master Volume -> Outputs (DI Out, Loudspeaker Out, Phones Out, Aux In).

The diagram visually represents how the input signal is processed through the different stages of the amplifier to produce the final output.

Specifications

In the interest of continuous development, Laney reserves the right to modify product specifications without prior notice.

Dimensions

The amplifier's physical dimensions are:

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

The unit weighs 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs).

Safety and Warnings

Manufacturer: HEADSTOCK DISTRIBUTION LTD. STEELPARK ROAD, COOMBS WOOD BUSINESS PARK WEST, HALESOWEN, B62 8HD, UK

Please read this owner's manual carefully and keep it in a safe place for future reference to get the most from your new product and enjoy long, trouble-free performance.

1. Unpacking: Upon unpacking your product, check thoroughly for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit from the Laney factory to your dealer. In the unlikely event that damage has occurred, repack the unit in its original carton and consult your dealer. It is strongly recommended that you retain your original transit carton, as in the unlikely event that your unit develops a fault, you will be able to return it to your dealer for rectification in safe packaging.
2. Amplifier Connection: To avoid damage, it is generally advisable to establish and follow a pattern for switching your system on and off. With all parts of the system connected, switch on your source equipment, mixers, effects processors etc., BEFORE switching on your amplifier. Many products have large transient surges when switched on and off, which can damage loudspeakers. By switching on your amplifier LAST and ensuring your level control is turned to minimum, the transients from other equipment should not reach your loudspeakers. Wait until all parts of the system have stabilized, usually a couple of seconds. Similarly, when switching off your system, always turn down the level controls of your amplifier and then switch it off before switching off other equipment.
3. Cables: Never use screened or microphone cables for loudspeaker connections, as they will not be substantial enough to handle the amplifier load and could cause damage to the entire system. Use good quality screened cables elsewhere.
4. Service: The user should not attempt to service these products. 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 in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
10. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
11. Apparatus with Class I construction must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earth connection. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades, one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.
12. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
13. Use only attachments/accessories supplied by the manufacturer.
14. Use only with the 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.
15. The mains plug or appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device and shall remain readily operable. The user should allow for easy access to any mains plug, mains coupler and mains switch used in conjunction with this unit so that it can be operated easily. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
16. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the 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.
17. Never break off the earth pin. Connect only to a power supply of the type marked on the unit next to the power cord.
18. If this product is to be mounted in an equipment rack, a rear support should be provided.
19. UK Only Note: If the colours of the wires in the power cord of this unit do not correspond with the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
    • The wire which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter E, the earth symbol, or coloured green or green and yellow.
    • The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black.
    • The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red.
20. This electrical apparatus should not be exposed to dripping or splashing and care must be taken not to place objects containing liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
21. Exposure to extremely high noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss, but almost 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 exposure limits: According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits could result in hearing loss. Ear plugs or protectors for the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating this amplification system to prevent permanent hearing loss, if exposure exceeds the limits stated above. To prevent potentially hazardous 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 protection while this unit is in operation.
22. If your appliance features a tilt-back mechanism or a kick-back style cabinet, use this design feature with caution. Due to the ease with which the amplifier can be moved between upright and tilted-back positions, only use the amplifier on a level and stable surface. DO NOT operate the amplifier on a desk, table, shelf, or any other type of unstable and inadequate platform.
23. The symbols and nomenclature used on the product and in the product manuals, intended to alert the operator to areas where additional caution may be necessary, are as follows:
    • CAUTION: Designed to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated 'dangerous voltage' within the product's enclosure that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
    • WARNING: Intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (Service) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
    • PRECAUCION / WARNING: Risk of electric shock - DO NOT OPEN. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
    • ADVERTISSEMENT / ADVERTENCIA / ACHTUNG: 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.
24. FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following 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. Warning: Changes or modifications to the equipment not approved by Laney may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a 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 to 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.
25. CE Compliance: This product complies with the requirements of the following European standards, directives, and rules: CE mark (93/68/EEC), Low Voltage (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RoHS (2011/65/EU), ErP (2009/125/EU). The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at: http://support.laney.co.uk/approvals
26. UK Compliance: The subject of the declaration described above is in conformity with the relevant statutory instrument: The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, The Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016, The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012, The Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2012.
27. WEEE Directive: To reduce environmental damage, at the end of its useful life, this product should not be disposed of with normal household waste in landfills. It should be taken to an approved recycling centre as per the recommendations of the applicable WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive in your country.

Company Information

Laney Amplification
STEELPARK ROAD, COOMBSWOOD BUSINESS PARK WEST, HALESOWEN, B62 8HD, UK
For the latest information, visit www.laney.co.uk

In the interest of continuous development, Laney reserves the right to modify product specifications without prior notice.

Version 1.0