introduction
Launching a new bass amplifier head, notably in a traditional size, is a daring move in an era dominated by compact amps and advanced modeling technology.However,Laney’s Digbeth series may just defy this trend,especially with a recent surge in celebrity endorsement.
Nathan East is a legendary figure in the bass community,renowned for his extensive session work. His contributions can be heard in chart-toppers like Easy Lover, Footloose, and Get Lucky, alongside collaborations with icons such as Toto, Whitney Houston, and Michael Jackson.
For several years, East has utilized Laney amplifiers, and now he has partnered with the esteemed British brand to create his inaugural signature amplifier, crafted in the UK as part of Laney’s Black Country Customs collection.
Specifications
- Price: $1,499 | £999 | €1,499
- Type: Solid-state bass head
- Origin: UK
- Output: 2x 500 watts RMS
- Speaker: N/A
- Channels: 2
- Controls: Front panel: Input 1/2 selector, Trim, FET Volume, FET/Tube selector, Tube Drive, Tube Volume (with pull function for FET/Tube blend), Bass, Mid Mode selector, Mid Level, Treble, Tilt, Master Volume. Rear panel: Power on/off, DI 1 Mode selector, DI 1 Ground/Lift, DI 2 Mode selector, DI 2 Ground/Lift, Phones volume control, Aux In volume control, Effects Loop gain selector.
- Connectivity: Front panel: 2x ” instrument inputs.Rear panel: IEC input, USB-C socket, 2x ” Remote inputs, 2x XLR DI outputs, 3.5mm headphone output, 3.5mm aux input, FX loop send, FX loop return, ” Tuner out, 2x speakON/’ combination outputs.
- Footswitch: Not included
- Weight: 8.5kg/18.7lb
- Dimensions: 219 x 470 x 225mm
- Contact: Laney
Construction Quality
construction Quality Rating: ★★★★★
the Laney DB-EAST showcases a design that aligns with the aesthetic of the Digbeth series; it features a compact head shell that strikes a balance between portability and presence, adorned with a vintage-inspired look. The retro Laney logo and classic grill-cloth front give it a stylish and polished appearance. Notably, unlike other models in the Digbeth lineup, this amplifier is crafted in the UK.
The knobs are robust and responsive, while the switches and jacks exude durability.This amp is designed for East’s touring needs, and it clearly reflects thoughtful engineering to meet those demands.
Ease of Use
Ease of Use Rating: ★★★★★
The standout feature? Two distinct inputs and outputs, allowing for two separate, switchable signal paths, each delivering 500 watts of power. For East, this means one channel for electric bass and another for upright bass.
The tone-shaping controls are shared across both channels,but a Trim control ensures volume levels can be balanced between the two instruments.The amp features a three-band EQ, a four-way midrange contour selector, and a Tilt control for overall tonal adjustments.
The DB-EAST incorporates a dual-channel preamp with a clean FET channel and a tube emulation circuit. Users can switch between channels or blend them for a unique sound.
The rear panel is equipped with a variety of practical features, including dual XLR outputs, a pair of combination SpeakOn/1/4″ outputs, 3.5mm headphone and aux jacks, a tuner output, and an effects loop.
The XLR outputs can deliver both an unprocessed DI signal and a processed signal with or without Laney’s proprietary LA:IR cabinet emulation. Users can customize the LA:IR settings via software for Mac or PC, with numerous impulse responses available, although the factory-installed presets for 4×10″ and 2×12″ cabinets are likely sufficient for many users.
Tone Quality
Sound Quality Rating: ★★★★★
To evaluate the DB-EAST, I connected it to my full-range Laney LFR-212 powered cabinet to test its impulse responses. While I lacked the signature Yamaha bass guitar favored by East, I utilized a passive five-string Yamaha BB, which provided a solid foundation for classic Fender Precision and Jazz Bass tones.
Input and Output 1 serves as East’s preferred electric bass signal path, utilizing its 4×10″ IR. With the EQ set flat and the Tube circuit turned off, the FET sound is warm, smooth, and exceptionally clean, delivering rich low-end frequencies. In contrast, the Tube sound offers thicker mids and, when the Drive control is increased, a delightful retro growl. Players who prefer heavier overdrive may need an additional pedal to achieve a more aggressive sound.
The most impressive tone from the DB-EAST emerges when blending the FET and Tube sounds by pulling the Tube Volume control, allowing users to balance the channel volumes. This results in a warm low-end punch combined with characterful midrange grit and compression, creating a remarkable sound with ample volume.
The four-way mid selector allows for subtle yet meaningful tonal adjustments,while the Tilt control facilitates quick changes,particularly when switching between different bass guitars.
Speaking of basses, East’s preference for active circuitry led me to try my five-string Warwick Thumb, which impressed me immediatly. The Thumb, known for its mid-focused sound, frequently enough lacks low-end punch, but that was not the case here-it sounded massive. Meanwhile, blending the FET and Tube sounds with a scooped midrange using a Sterling StingRay produced a quintessential, aggressive modern rock tone.
Conclusion
the Laney Digbeth DB-EAST is a remarkable amplifier that successfully combines modern technology with classic design elements. With its robust build quality, versatile sound options, and user-kind features, it stands out as a top choice for bassists seeking both power and tonal versatility.
The DB-EAST amplifier, much like its namesake Nathan East, exemplifies versatility and excellence. This amp has been meticulously designed to maximize flexibility and utility, making it a great value, especially considering its UK craftsmanship.
Robustly constructed, visually appealing, equipped with an intuitive feature set, and most importantly, it delivers remarkable sound across various bass instruments.
In today’s music landscape, the traditional-sized amp head can easily be overlooked, yet the DB-EAST serves as a powerful reminder of the capabilities inherent in this format.
Guitar World Review: The DB-EAST is remarkably impressive-whether on stage or in the studio, it stands out as a versatile and superb-sounding tone generator, packed with clever design features. It’s astounding that this is Nathan East’s first signature amplifier after such a long and illustrious career,but it certainly lives up to the legacy.
|
Evaluation Criteria |
Findings |
Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
Build Quality |
No issues at all; it feels incredibly sturdy and is competitively priced for a UK-made product. |
★★★★★ |
|
Ease of Use |
Highly intuitive, packed with features that are favorable for both seasoned players like Nathan East and those new to the scene. |
★★★★★ |
|
Sound Quality |
Whether you seek a smooth, warm clean tone, a gritty tube overdrive, or a blend of both, the sound is exceptional and highly customizable. |
★★★★★ |
|
Overall Impression |
The features tailored for Nathan East are equally beneficial for all musicians. |
★★★★★ |
Additional Recommendations
Video Demonstrations
Guitar Center Featuring Nathan East
Watch On
Laney
Watch On
Sweetwater
Watch On
The DB-EAST amplifier, much like Nathan East himself, showcases remarkable versatility and skill. This amplifier has been thoughtfully engineered to maximize its adaptability and functionality, offering excellent value, particularly given its UK manufacturing.
Constructed with durability in mind, aesthetically pleasing, featuring an intuitive array of functions, and most importantly, it produces outstanding sound quality across a range of bass instruments.
In the current music scene, it’s easy to overlook the traditional amp head for bass setups, yet the DB-EAST serves as a powerful reminder of the potential this format holds.
Guitar World Review: The DB-EAST is exceptionally impressive-whether performing live or recording in the studio, it excels as a versatile and high-quality tone generator, equipped with numerous intelligent design features. It’s remarkable that this is Nathan East’s first signature amplifier after such a lengthy and distinguished career, but it undoubtedly deserves the title.
|
Assessment Criteria |
Findings |
Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
Construction Quality |
No issues at all; it feels incredibly robust and is competitively priced for a product made in the UK. |
★★★★★ |
|
User-Friendliness |
Highly intuitive, loaded with features that are advantageous for both seasoned professionals like Nathan East and newcomers alike. |
★★★★★ |
|
Sound Performance |
Whether you desire a smooth, warm clean tone, a gritty tube overdrive, or a combination of both, the sound is exceptional and highly adjustable. |
★★★★★ |
|
Overall Impression |
The features designed for Nathan East are equally beneficial for all musicians. |
★★★★★ |
Additional Recommendations
Video Demonstrations
Guitar Center Featuring Nathan East
Watch On
