Unveiling the DB-East: Nathan East and laney Amps Redefine Bass Amplification
In an exciting collaboration, Laney Amps has partnered with Nathan East, a legendary figure in the world of bass guitar, too introduce the DB-East signature bass head. This innovative amplifier marks a significant milestone, combining East’s extensive experience with Laney’s six decades of craftsmanship.
With a remarkable history of collaborations, East has worked with an array of iconic artists, including Eric Clapton, Joe Satriani, and Daft Punk.His diverse musical background has greatly influenced the design and functionality of this new amplifier, which boasts an remarkable 1,000 watts of power.
A New Era of Versatility
part of Laney’s Digbeth series, the DB-East emphasizes “unmatched versatility” with its dual inputs and outputs. “I’ve been waiting four decades for this,” East enthusiastically shares. “Most amps only feature a single input, which has always puzzled me.” While two-input amps exist, they often lack the specific functionality East envisioned. The DB-East allows front-of-house engineers to manage each instrument independently, enhancing the overall mixing experience.
The second input is equipped with a gain trim matching control, adding to the amplifier’s adaptability.
Hybrid Technology for Optimal Sound
Additionally, the DB-East features switchable and blendable FET and tube preamp stages, allowing musicians to combine the clarity of FET with the warmth of tube amplification. East describes this hybrid approach as a perfect balance: “When I perform,it feels organic,not like I’m using just another piece of electronic equipment.”
In terms of controls, the FET section has its own volume knob, while the tube section includes separate volume and drive controls. The amplifier also features a three-band EQ,a Tilt function,and a Master volume,providing extensive sound-shaping capabilities.
Tailored Sound for Every Venue
The Tilt function is a standout feature of the Digbeth collection, enabling players to adjust the amp’s tonal characteristics to suit various room sizes and acoustics. By manipulating this control,musicians can enhance either the brightness or the low-end response of their sound.
For those who prefer to play without a cabinet, Laney has integrated its proprietary Impulse Response technology, offering two of East’s preferred cabinet simulations: a 2×12 and a 4×10.
Power Meets Performance
With its formidable 1,000-watt output and dual 500-watt Speakon outputs, the DB-east is designed to deliver remarkable performance in any setting, from intimate jazz clubs to large stadiums. “We now have double the power, double the inputs, and double the magic,” East remarks. “After all these years,I finally have an amp that captures the sound I adore. It’s truly a game-changer for me.”
The Laney DB-East is now available for purchase. As of this writing, Guitar World is inquiring about its retail price.
For more information, visit Laney’s official website.
In related news,East recently shared insights on how his bass lines served as “telegraphed messages” during his collaboration with Eric Clapton on the track Change the World. He also reflected on the emotional challenges of recording Tears in Heaven, one of Clapton’s most poignant songs.
