TEST: Synergy Modules

 The Synergy Concept has been on the market for several years now and, despite its high-quality approach, is still relatively rare to see in studios or on stages. The reasons for this are not immediately apparent, especially considering that several popular YouTubers heavily promote these products. To counter the argument of limited selection, the company has entered into additional interesting collaborations with various manufacturers to offer more Synergy Modules in the form of preamp inserts.

Inserts, what are those?

I don't want to delve into the basic Synergy principle in this test, as you can read about it in my 2018 review at this link: https://www.amazona.de/test-synergy-syn-30-head/. In brief, the Synergy principle is based on the concept of having various tube preamp modules developed by established amp manufacturers like Soldano, Fryette, Bogner, Diezel, and many more, and placing these as analog modules in an insert.

This insert can be a complete head with one or more slots, or, as in this test, a pure preamp with only one slot. All modules have 2 channels and are usually priced around 390 euros. The commendable principle is based on the attempt to implement a touch of "Kemper practice" with real analog technology, better sound, and above all, fair compensation for the original amp designers in the form of licensing, rather than leaving them empty-handed as in the current Kemper practice.

The Synergy Test Setup

To test the various modules in direct comparison, a Synergy SYN-1 Preamp was used. The preamp, equipped with a 12AX7 tube, was developed by Steve Fryette, who is also one of the module providers. The preamp has multiple areas of application and can be used in front of an external power amp, in front of an amp's preamp, in an amp's FX loop, or via a frequency-corrected XLR output directly into a DAW converter. The XLR output can also be used to play directly into an active speaker with a tweeter. Furthermore, the preamp has its own FX loop and comes with a footswitch that deactivates the module or switches the channel. This way, you can nicely upgrade your amp with two additional channels.

If you want to place the Synergy SYN-1 Preamp in the FX loop of a full-tube amp, be careful not to place it directly over the power transformer (usually located on the input side), as this can easily lead to interference. Also, the preamp must always be switched off when changing modules! I forgot this once during testing and promptly received an electric shock from one of the fixing screws when inserting the next module.

For the test setup, I used a Koch ATR-4502 power amp for linearity reasons, which, although it tends to struggle with overheating problems, is sonically among the best you can get for guitar amplification in the solid-state realm. Both the treble and bass ranges were slightly boosted using the two toggle switches. A Marshall 412 cabinet with Celestion G12 75T was used, miked with 2 SM 57s.

ENGL Powerball

The Engl Powerball is one of the great classics in the Engl program, known for its versatility and, like almost all Engl amps, for its high-gain sound. Both channels have a very dense sound image and feature the classic Engl compression, which is responsible for an incredibly powerful sound.

Steve Vai Module

The big draw in the Synergy stable is, as expected, the name Steve Vai, who also attracts attention in the module area with his typically daring color scheme, although I personally quite like the green used. Steve Vai has been known for decades for probably the softest high-gain guitar sound, which, especially on the neck pickup, always seems on the verge of becoming muddy, but always manages to avoid it with his pickup and wood selection. In other words, Steve Vai's setup played through a Les Paul's neck pickup feels like Maja the Bee has started flapping her wings.

In the clean area, he makes no secret of the fact that Jimi Hendrix was one of his biggest influences, which he always manages to weave in with high craftsmanship and tasteful harmonization. The FAME Firecat I used, due to its EMGs, can't quite perfectly hit the clean area in its orientation, but it gives an impression of the direction. Regarding the Red Channel, no, this is not the neck pickup, the channel actually sounds so treble-poor, even when using the bridge pickup in this case. A good approach to practice the great Vai instrumental hit "For The Love Of God," but personally a bit too "muffled" for mainstream use.

Bogner Ecstasy and Überschall

One of the big names of the eighties is Reinhold Bogner, who, as one of the few German names, managed to break into the then gigantically successful USA guitar hero phalanx with his Bogner amps. Bogner amps generally always sounded a bit airier and more transparent than the majority of popular high-gain amps, which gives the amp somewhat less punch in individual play, but significantly better locatability in a band context.

As recognized with the Ecstasy module, the basic sound is comparatively treble-heavy with reduced bass and midrange reproduction, yet the module sounds somewhat muffled. Personally, I miss some of the sprightliness of the original heads, which can, however, still be compensated for when using a different power amp.

The Überschall module behaves similarly, but the amp goes a bit more into the compression corner. What also increases massively, however, is the level of background noise, which will incite any FOH to wild cursing attacks. Since this level cannot be influenced by turning down the guitar volume pot, as it is generated by the module, this module must definitely be used with a noise gate in the FX loop, or you have to switch to the blue channel in every playing pause, which then must be correspondingly reduced in gain.

Fryette Deliverance and Pitbull

Steve Fryette, formerly the head of VHT and still one of the most popular American amp designers, is known not only for his quirky humor but also for a very special amp sound. The Deliverance module is much more moderate in its approach, while the Pitbull, which is the only module with a switchable graphic equalizer, is completely dedicated to high gain, as evidenced by its two gain controls.

Both modules sound incredibly tight without compressing too heavily, but neither module can build up the hard-to-describe aura of the original heads. Good in approach, but ultimately just a tendency of what makes the original sound. Working with the five-band equalizer turns out to be quite fiddly, but allows for extensive changes to the sound, sometimes even beyond sensible use.

Interestingly, some sound files with the Fryette modules from various YouTubers sound incredibly scratchy and treble-heavy, while I always noticed a rather treble-poor reproduction in my sound. This shows once again how different the results can be despite similar use.

The Synergy concept offers several advantages over traditional amplifiers:

1. Modularity and flexibility: Users can swap different preamp modules to access a wide variety of tones without needing multiple complete amplifiers[1]. This allows guitarists to mix and match preamps from different manufacturers, creating unique tonal combinations.

2. Space and cost efficiency: Instead of owning multiple full amplifiers, guitarists can have a single Synergy unit with interchangeable modules, saving both space and money[1].

3. Fair compensation for amp designers: The Synergy system incorporates original amp designers into its financial model, allowing them to receive royalties for their designs, unlike some digital modeling systems[1].

4. Analog circuitry: For those who prefer the sound and feel of analog equipment, Synergy offers an alternative to digital modeling while still providing tonal variety[1].

5. Expandability: Users can start with a single module and gradually build their collection, allowing for a more budget-friendly approach to expanding one's tonal palette[1].

6. Multiple application scenarios: The Synergy preamp can be used in various setups, including in front of an external power amp, in an amp's effects loop, or directly into a DAW via its XLR output[1].

7. Channel expansion: The system allows users to add two additional channels to their existing amplifier setup, effectively upgrading their amp's capabilities[1].

8. Authentic tones: While not exact replicas, the modules aim to capture the essence and character of iconic amplifiers, offering a more authentic analog alternative to digital modeling[1].

9. Versatility: Some users have found creative ways to incorporate Synergy modules into bass rigs or even keyboard amplification, showcasing the system's adaptability[1].

10. Ongoing development: The company behind Synergy continues to collaborate with well-known artists and amp designers to create new modules, ensuring the system remains relevant and offers new sounds[1].

These advantages make the Synergy concept an attractive option for guitarists seeking tonal versatility without sacrificing the character of analog circuitry, while also supporting a more ethical business model in the guitar amplification industry.

Conclusion

With the Synergy Modules, the manufacturer offers an extensive, very elaborate system of various modules, which is exemplary in its conception. Depending on the version, one manages to come relatively close to the original amp and thus has the opportunity to pimp one's existing setup with comparatively little effort by adding several channels.

Moreover, the system incorporates the designers of the modules into the financial model and allows them to participate in the profits, as it should be in a fair deal that satisfies all sides. However, how much chance a financial model has that relies on the user's ethical sense as a basis can be imagined by anyone who experienced customer behavior in the early MP3 problematic.

To further expand on the Synergy system and its modules, it's worth noting that the company has continued to innovate and expand its offerings since its inception. The modular approach allows guitarists to mix and match preamps from different manufacturers, creating unique tonal combinations that were previously impossible without owning multiple amplifiers.

One of the key advantages of the Synergy system is its flexibility. Users can start with a single module and gradually build their collection, allowing for a more budget-friendly approach to expanding one's tonal palette. This scalability is particularly appealing to working musicians who may need to adapt their sound for different gigs or recording sessions.

The Synergy modules are not just limited to guitar applications. Some users have found creative ways to incorporate them into bass rigs or even use them for keyboard amplification, showcasing the versatility of the system.

It's important to note that while the Synergy modules aim to recreate the sounds of iconic amplifiers, they are not exact replicas. The modules are designed to capture the essence and character of the original amps, but due to differences in components, circuitry, and the overall design philosophy of the Synergy system, there will always be some variations in tone compared to the original amplifiers.

The build quality of the Synergy modules is generally high, with robust construction that can withstand the rigors of regular gigging. The modules are designed to be easily swapped, although as mentioned in the review, proper precautions should always be taken when changing modules to avoid electrical shocks or damage to the equipment.

One aspect that potential users should consider is the learning curve associated with the Synergy system. While the modules themselves are relatively straightforward to use, getting the most out of the system often requires experimentation and a willingness to dive deep into tone shaping. This can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on the user's preferences and level of technical expertise.

The Synergy system also raises interesting questions about the future of guitar amplification. As digital modeling technology continues to advance, some may wonder about the long-term viability of an analog modular system. However, many guitarists still prefer the feel and response of analog circuits, and the Synergy system offers a unique compromise between the flexibility of digital systems and the authenticity of analog tone.

It's worth mentioning that while the Synergy system has gained a dedicated following among certain guitarists, it hasn't achieved the same level of widespread adoption as some digital modeling solutions. This could be due to factors such as price point, availability, or simply the preferences of the broader guitar-playing community.

The company behind Synergy has also been active in engaging with the guitar community, often collaborating with well-known artists and amp designers to create new modules. This ongoing development ensures that the system remains relevant and continues to offer new sounds and options for users.

One potential drawback of the Synergy system is that it may not be as convenient for quick, on-the-fly tone changes during a performance compared to some all-in-one digital solutions. Swapping modules mid-set is not practical, so users need to plan their tonal choices in advance.

Despite this, many users appreciate the tactile experience of working with physical modules and the ability to create a custom rig that reflects their personal tonal preferences. The Synergy system appeals to those who enjoy the process of crafting their sound as much as the end result.

In conclusion, the Synergy system represents an interesting approach to guitar amplification that blends traditional analog design with modern modularity. While it may not be for everyone, it offers a unique solution for guitarists seeking tonal versatility without sacrificing the character of analog circuitry. As with any gear choice, potential users should carefully consider their needs, budget, and playing style before investing in the Synergy system.