From the UK to the World: An Overview of Laney Amps

Hello!
I’m Kaoru, a composer.

Today, I want to introduce Laney, a brand that I’m especially interested in.

Known particularly for their guitar amps, this guide is essential for those searching for a great guitar amp!

Let’s start by digging into the roots of Laney.

■ What is Laney?

Founded in 1967 by Lyndon Laney, Laney produces and sells primarily:

• Electric guitar amps
• Electric bass amps
• Cabinets
• PA amps
• Various accessories like footswitches

Lyndon himself was a bassist, so he approaches product development with a musician’s perspective.
Originally from a poor family, Lyndon began making his own amps, which eventually led to the founding of Laney.

Today, many world-famous artists use Laney amps, making them a staple on various stages worldwide.

It is one of the few manufacturers with over half a century of history, and their technical expertise is astounding!

Laney’s lineup ranges from affordable options for beginners to pro-quality gear, so there’s something for everyone.

■ Notable Users

Many big names in the music world have used Laney, including:

• TONY IOMMI（BLACK SABBATH）
• JUSTIN HAWKINS（THE DARKNESS）
• MARTIN MILLER
• PHIL X（BON JOVI）
• Paul Gilbert
• Tomoyasu Hotei

Just a quick search shows how many musicians use Laney products.
This proves that Laney is a highly-trusted brand!

■ Laney Amps - Series Overview

Laney offers a range of amp styles, including tube amps, high-gain amps, and classic styles, loved by musicians across genres.

Key series include:

• IRONHEART（IRT）
• LX
• LIONHEART

Each has its own unique concept.

IRONHEART Series (IRT):

This is the most popular series of Laney amplifiers.
It can cover a wide range of sounds, from natural, well-balanced clean tones to powerful distortion, all from a single amp.
Typically, it features a three-channel design with CLEAN, RHYTHM, and LEAD, offering high flexibility that will be useful in various scenarios.

There is a wide range of models available, all of which are equipped with tubes, providing a warm sound characteristic of tube amplifiers.
Additionally, these amps generally have larger and heavier chassis, making them somewhat difficult to transport.

The price range is approximately ¥55,000 to ¥100,000, which I believe is relatively affordable for professional-quality amplifiers.

LX Series:

This series features solid-state amplifiers that use transistors.
They are characterized by a bright and clear sound typical of transistor amplifiers.

The lineup includes a variety of options, from compact combo amps for home use to high-power head amps suitable for live performances, making this series generally the easiest to handle.

There are models available for just a few thousand yen, making it ideal for beginners.
Additionally, being a transistor amplifier means maintenance is easier, which is definitely a plus!

LIONHEART Series:

This series offers a wide range of products, from tube amplifiers to battery-powered compact amps.

Aside from the MINI Series, it features single-ended pure Class A operation using EL84 power tubes, known for its natural sound.

Unlike Laney’s signature rugged design, this series is characterized by eye-catching blue-themed color schemes.

It includes both head amps and combo amps, allowing you to choose based on your usage.

In contrast to the IRONHEART Series, which is Laney’s flagship product, the LIONHEART is distinguished by its classic tones.
The combo amp and dedicated cabinet can be tilted, making monitoring easier.

As you can see, Laney’s amplifiers have unique features across different series, allowing you to select one based on your musical style and needs.
There are still many other series to explore, so be sure to check them out when making a purchase.

Now, let’s highlight some recommended products available at Sound House!

Laney / IRT-STUDIO Guitar Amp Head

This is the guitar head from the IRT Series, which I’m personally most excited about.
Since I often play guitar for recording, I find features like:

• Dummy load
• USB connectivity
• Rack-mountable
• Cabinet simulator that reproduces a raw sound

to be incredibly appealing!

Typically, a load box is needed when recording with a tube amp, but this amp eliminates that need!
Its greatest feature is that it condenses convenient functions that allow you to enjoy tube sound easily.

Additionally, it’s relatively compact, making it easy to transport!

Of course, it comes equipped with all the features unique to the IRT Series, making it highly recommended for those who perform live frequently!
The included genuine foot pedal allows for instant switching of channels, clean sounds, reverb, and boost right at your feet.

In addition to headphone monitoring, it even has connection terminals for CD players and MP3 players, making it great for practice!

With all these impressive features, it’s priced around 55,000 yen! That’s a great deal!

That’s all for my summary of Laney.

Their product lineup is very rich, with features that are sure to please players!

I encourage everyone to give it a try!!!!

The “sound & person” column is made up of contributions from you.
For details about contributing, click here.