Laney IRF-LEADTOP User Manual

Introduction

The Laney IRF-LEADTOP is a compact, 60-watt RMS guitar amplifier head, part of the IRONHEART FOUNDRY series. Designed in the UK, it offers a single channel with distinct Clean and Lead modes, a versatile 3-band passive EQ, and a switchable pre-boost. It is suitable for both practice and performance, featuring a low-power mode (<1W) for quiet operation and an emulated headphone output.

Key Features

• 60 Watts RMS
• Single channel with Clean and Lead modes
• Selectable voicings: Bright, Natural, Dark
• 3-band passive EQ tone stack
• Switchable pre-boost with level control
• Speaker output
• High power and low power modes (<1W)
• Transformer-isolated Effects Loop
• Auxiliary input
• Headphone output
• Universal voltage power supply (100-240V) included

Front Panel Controls

The front panel features the following controls:

• Input: 6.3mm (1/4") mono jack for connecting your guitar.
• Boost Control: Adds extra gain, functioning as a pre-boost. An LED indicates when it's active.
• Gain: Adjusts the amount of distortion and overdrive.
• Volume: Controls the overall output level of the amplifier.
• CLEAN / LEAD SWITCH: Selects between the Clean channel (clear, warm tone) and the Lead channel (higher gain, more distortion).
• Voicing Switch: Further shapes the tone. Options include:
  • Neutral: No tonal change.
  • Bright: Enhances high frequencies for a sharper tone.
  • Dark: Boosts low-end frequencies and adds warmth, reducing high-end presence.
• EQ Settings (Bass, Middle, Treble): A 3-band passive EQ system to sculpt your sound.
  • BASS: Controls the low-frequency response.
  • MIDDLE: Controls the mid-frequency response.
  • TREBLE: Controls the high-frequency response.

Back Panel Connections

The rear panel provides the following connections:

• Headphone Jack: 3.5mm jack for connecting headphones for silent practice. The output is cabinet-emulated and mutes the speaker.
• AUX Socket: 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio devices to play along with.
• Effects Loop (FX Send/Return): 6.3mm jacks for integrating external effects pedals.
  • FX SEND / LINE OUT: Output for connecting to the input of your effects.
  • FX RETURN: Input for connecting the output of your effects.
• Remote Socket: 6.3mm jack for connecting an optional footswitch (e.g., Laney FS1-Mini) to control the pre-boost function.
• Speaker Output: 6.3mm jack for connecting to a passive speaker cabinet (8-16 Ohms impedance). Do not connect to other amplifier inputs or devices.
• Power: Connection for the included 100-240V AC adapter. Features an on/off switch. The front grille illuminates when the unit is powered on.

Connection Methods

Connecting to a Passive Cabinet: Use the Speaker Output jack to connect directly to a compatible passive speaker cabinet (minimum 8 Ohms).

Using the Effects Loop: Connect your external effects pedals between the FX Send and FX Return jacks. For example, connect the guitar to the amp's input, the amp's FX Send to the input of your effects chain, and the output of your effects chain to the amp's FX Return.

Silent Practice with Headphones and AUX Input: Connect headphones to the Headphone Out jack for private practice. The emulated cabinet sound provides a realistic tone. Connect a media player or smartphone to the AUX In jack to play along with backing tracks or music.

Setting Examples

The following are suggested settings for different tones:

• Clean Tone: Gain: 3, Volume: 5, Bass: 5, Middle: 5, Treble: 5. CLEAN/LEAD SWITCH: CLEAN. Voicing: Neutral.
• Crunch Tone: Gain: 6, Volume: 5, Bass: 5, Middle: 5, Treble: 5. CLEAN/LEAD SWITCH: LEAD. Voicing: Neutral.
• Rhythm Tone: Gain: 7, Volume: 6, Bass: 6, Middle: 6, Treble: 6. CLEAN/LEAD SWITCH: LEAD. Voicing: Bright.
• Lead Tone: Gain: 8, Volume: 7, Bass: 7, Middle: 7, Treble: 7. CLEAN/LEAD SWITCH: LEAD. Voicing: Bright.

Specifications

Dimensions

The amplifier has the following approximate dimensions:

• Height: 161 mm (6.3 inches)
• Width: 287 mm (11.3 inches)
• Depth: 182 mm (7.2 inches)

Detailed diagrams show the front, rear, top, base, and side views with specific measurements.

Safety and Compliance

Important Safety Precautions:

• Read this manual thoroughly and keep it for future reference.
• Check for any damage upon unpacking.
• Follow the correct power on/off sequence for connected equipment.
• Use appropriate cables; do not use speaker cables for signal connections.
• Do not attempt to service the unit yourself; refer to qualified personnel.
• Keep the unit away from water and moisture.
• Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid blocking vents.
• Keep away from heat sources.
• Protect the power cord from damage.
• Use only supplied accessories and power adapters.
• Be cautious when using carts or stands to prevent tipping.
• Unplug the unit during thunderstorms or extended periods of non-use.
• Prolonged exposure to high sound levels can cause hearing damage; consider hearing protection.
• Always use the amplifier on a stable, level surface.

Symbols:

• CAUTION: Indicates a risk of electric shock. [⚡]
• WARNING: Alerts to important operating or maintenance instructions. [⚠️]

Compliance:

• FCC: Complies with FCC Part 15 rules for Class B digital devices.
• CE: Meets requirements for Low Voltage, EMC, RoHS, and ErP directives.
• UKCA: Complies with relevant UK regulations.
• Environmental Disposal: Do not dispose of with household waste; use approved recycling centers according to local regulations.