Laney Digbeth DB 500H - bass amplifier head

Laney Digbeth DB 500H – powerful bass amplifier head with FET and tube preamps

The Laney Digbeth DB500H blends vintage aesthetics with ultra-modern performance, delivering 500 watts RMS in a compact, road-ready chassis. Designed for professional bass players, it offers a wide range of FET and tube tones, trusted by artists such as Nathan East, Arran McKenzie (While She Sleeps), and Dougie Poynter (McFly).

Overview and features

The DB500H provides the perfect balance of power and tone flexibility. It features two preamp sections – FET and TUBE – which can be used separately or blended. The TILT “EQ Seesaw” control allows dynamic tonal adjustment: turning it clockwise boosts mids and highs for presence, while counterclockwise rotation enhances low frequencies for a fuller sound.

FX loop and connectivity

A comprehensive FX loop lets you insert effects between the preamp and power section, ideal for positioning time-based effects after distortion. The XLR DI output with Pre/Post switch connects directly to mixers or interfaces, and the Ground Lift reduces hum. Additional features include a tuner out, 3.5 mm AUX input with level control, and a headphone output with its own volume control.

Construction and design

Built with a rugged metal chassis and weighing only 7.1 kg, the DB500H is compact yet capable of delivering professional-level power. The balanced combo output (Tele/Speakon) ensures compatibility with a wide range of speaker cabinets.

Technical details – format, standards and compatibility

Format and standards

Delivers 500 watts RMS at 4 ohms with a 3-band EQ, selectable MID curve, and TILT “EQ Seesaw” control. Compatible with standard 6.3 mm jack or Speakon connections.

Power supply and requirements

Internal universal power supply. No external adapter required.

Environment and use

Designed for stage, studio, and rehearsal use. Ideal for musicians requiring a portable amp head with high output and tonal versatility.

Specifications

• Power: 500 W RMS
• Preamp: FET & Tube (footswitchable, mixable)
• EQ: 3-band, TILT “EQ Seesaw”, selectable MID curve
• Connections: FX loop, tuner out, XLR DI (Pre/Post), 3.5 mm headphone out (with level), 3.5 mm AUX in (with level)
• Output: Combo jack (Tele/Speakon, twist-lock)
• Ground Lift: Yes
• Footswitch: Remote socket
• Channels: 2 (FET and Tube)
• Dimensions (H×W×D): 205 × 420 × 220 mm
• Weight: 7.1 kg
• Colour: Black