Synergy SYN20-IR Head + Friedman DS Module Bundle

The SYN-20IR utilizes Synergy’s patented all-tube modular system, allowing you to quickly and easily swap preamp modules to endlessly expand your tonal palette. The SYN-20IR is the world’s most flexible, convenient, and tonally versatile all-tube amplifier head. The amp’s built-in vintage American-style clean channel coupled two additional channels from your favorite Synergy preamp module,  makes the SYN-20IR a three-channel tonal beast ideal for every player, every style, and every situation.

Each all-tube, two-channel module is equipped with dual 12AX7s and features the exact preamp circuitry as the legendary amplifier it is based on. In most cases the SYNERGY module offers more features in comparison to the amp itself. The Synergy engineering team painstakingly works with each brand partner to design modules that achieve the most accurate tonal representation of their famous amplifier model.

Brought to life by a 20-watt EL84 power section, the SYN-20IR is ideal for at home, in the studio, onstage, or at rehearsal. The SYN-20IR is packed with features to satisfy today’s demanding players including onboard impulse response (IR) technology with latency less than 1ms, selectable Power Amp Structure, silent playing, XLR DI and Headphone outputs and fully MIDI capability.

INDUSTRY-LEADING IR TECHNOLOGY
The SYN-20IR boasts a powerful digital engine dedicated to its four onboard impulse responses (IR) and power amp simulation in the most accurate and natural-sounding way. Utilizing an oversized 500 MHz ARM DSP processor, it delivers these professionally captured IRs with under 1ms of latency, far surpassing competing products. Add and manage your own IR library, as well as the 13 included IRs, using the free Synergy Editor software.
SEAMLESS CAB-LESS OPERATION
The SYN-20IR allows you to safely go front of house or to your recording device with unmatched response and realism without an external speaker cabinet. Superior to passive and reactive loads, whether running direct onstage, in the studio, or even utilizing the amp’s headphone output, you always get the perfect feel and sound with zero compromises.

THE PERFECT AMP FOR EVERY SITUATION
Finding the perfect balance at 20 watts, the EL84-powered SYN-20IR is the working guitarist’s most valuable weapon. It’s designed for effortless portability while retaining rugged durability.

The head’s compact size and light weight makes it easy to move between gigs, studios, or different rooms in your home. And the amp’s road worthy steel construction protects it to ensure consistent performance every time you plug in.
ASSIGN (POWER AMP) STRUCTURE and IR TO EACH CHANNEL
Right from the amp’s front panel, you can assign one of four impulse responses (IRs) and one of three POWER STUCTURES to each of the three channels. Easily manage and save it all to the included 3-button MIDI footswitch.
NEXT-LEVEL POWER AMP CONTROL
The SYN-20IR offers unique controls for STRUCTURE & REACTANCE that tailor the response of the amp’s all-analog power section. The revolutionary STRUCTURE feature optimizes the head for any channel by offering three distinct power amp configurations and feedback which are assignable to each of the amp’s channels. The STRUCTURE feature significantly alters the overall contour and feel of the SYN-20IR.

There are three Structure modes to choose from:
MODE A: Balanced negative feedback for a clear yet punchy sound.
MODE B: Vintage style phase inverter with relaxed mids and a bright, shimmering high end.
MODE C: Modern HiFi style phase inverter and low negative feedback delivers a modern, tight feel with solid lows and a darker high end.
SYNERGY EDITOR SOFTWARE
The included Synergy Editor Software unlocks the SYN-20IR’s full potential. Connecting via a standard USB jack, you can easily assign different IRs and Structure settings for your amp and module channels, load and organize your IR library, save up to 128 MIDI presets, and tailor your power-amp simulation via the assignable Low-Pass and Low Pass filtering. It’s all available within the software’s streamlined and easy-to-use interface.

3-BUTTON  MIDI FOOTSWOTCH  - MIDI CONTROL
The SYN-20IR includes an easy-to-use 3-button MIDI footswitch that lets you save and access any combination of channels, amp structures and onboard IRs. With the tap of your toe, you can,  for example, switch from your module’s high-gain crunch with a 4x12 IR and Structure Mode C to the amp’s onboard clean channel  through a vintage 1x12 IR and the open-sounding Structure Mode A. You can also connect external MIDI switchers and controllers, giving you access to up to 128 user-created presets. The included Synergy Editor Software makes it easy to assign and organize your presets for maximum flexibility.

UNIVERSAL VOLTAGE
The SYN-20IR works seamlessly anywhere in the world with the help of a voltage selector switch found on the back panel. When traveling or moving to a different country and want to take the SYN-20IR with you, there is no need to re-bias the amp or use a step-up/step-down transformer – just select the right voltage, replace the Mains fuse with the correct rating and you're ready to go!

SYN-20IR Features:
20W lightweight all-tube modular guitar amplifier
Tubes: 2 x EL84 and  2 x 12AX7 tubes
(two additional 12AX7 in the module)
Builtin clean channel based on vintage American tube combos
Volume and Tone control
Selectable Power Amp Structure Modes:
Mode A: Balanced negative feedback for a clear yet punchy sound
Mode B: Vintage style phase inverter with relaxed mids and a bright, shimmering high end.
Mode C: Modern HiFi style phase inverter and low negative feedback delivers a modern, tight feel with solid lows and a darker high end.
Master Volume control
Reactance dynamic presence control
Low-latency IR cabinet simulation (bypassable)
4 IR presets, individually programmable per channel
Load your own IRs via the Software Editor
Included 3-button programmable MIDI footswitch pedal
7-Pin MIDI Cable Included
Ultra-transparent series FX loop
XLR Balanced Output with Ground Lift
Cab-less operation
Headphone Output with dedicated VOLUME control
MIDI programmable (up to 128 presets)
MIDI/Footswitch Input
1x16 ohm, 2 x 8ohm (parallel) and 2x4 ohm (parallel) speaker connectors
Synergy Software Editor
Dimensions: 14” (W) x 8.5” (D) x 7.5” (H)
Includes a 6’ USB Cable
Limited 5-Year Warranty
Weight: 16.4 lbs.

Dr.Z Z Wreck Preamp Module

The Z Wreck tube amp from the legendary Dr. Z is the brainchild of some of the most well-respected names in electric guitar tone: Brad Paisley, Dr. Z (Mike Zaite), and the late Ken Fischer of Trainwreck. Inspired by Paisley’s vision, this vintage-style tube amp has become famous for its touch response and tonal versatility. The Z Wreck amp resonates with rich detail, allowing you to explore clean and chiming tones or to be pushed for that signature bloom and vocal-like drive.

The Synergy Z Wreck preamp, in a development partnership with Dr. Z, brings the magic of the Z Wreck amplifier to the popular tube modular platform. This is Synergy’s first module with an integrated, 0-watt power amplifier, complete with a phase inverter and onboard transformer.   This transformative design, combined with Z Wreck’s distinctive Speed and Comfort settings unlock a vast array of expressive, harmonically complex tones. From pristine, smooth cleans, to pushed tones for sustained vocal-like gain, the Z WRECK preamp module links your heart, fingers, and tone.

SPEED AND COMFORT
When designing the original Z Wreck amplifier, Mike Zaite and Ken Fischer provided Brad Paisley two options. The Speed setting was Mike’s preference, with a higher power transformer voltage (330V) which delivered a percussive attack on the notes with great articulate. “Comfort” was Ken’s choice which had a bit lower transformer voltage (300V) and allowed for an initial attack and then a slight swell on the notes for smoother drive.

Brad compared the settings and loved them both which gave birth to the Comfort / Speed switch. This switch is faithfully re-created in the Synergy Z Wreck module.

ON-BOARD PHASE INVERTER – THE MOST INNOVATIVE SYNERGY MODULE TO DATE
A typical guitar tube amp is comprised of a power amp and a preamp.   A power amp is comprised of a phase inverter, power tubes and a transformer.  In most amps the majority of the tone is derived from the pre-amp section.  The Z Wreck amplifier however derives a significant portion of its signature tone from the power amp, creating a major engineering obstacle for designing a Synergy preamp module.  In collaboration with Mike Zaite the Synergy team resolved this issue by incorporating an actual “0 watt power amp”, phase inverter and small transformer into the module design.  This innovative solution resulted in this module authentically capturing the harmonic and dynamic content of the Z WRECK power amp including the “CUT” knob, which is a part of the power amp section.

This engineering achievement has opened the door for Synergy towards flexibility and infinite tonal options for the entire Synergy eco system.

DUAL-CHANNEL, TUBE PREAMP
The Synergy Z Wreck module from Dr. Z faithfully replicates the original amp’s musical qualities across two identical channels. Effortlessly switch between pristine clean tones and thick, driven sounds, or customize your rhythm and lead tones with independent Volume, Bass, and Treble controls. The Cut knobs refine the module’s high-end detail. At the same time, Speed (a strong attack with increased clarity and dynamic headroom) and Comfort (a vintage feel, softer response, and more overall sweetness) settings define its touch response. You can also balance the channels’ outputs with independent Master volume controls.

TUNGSOL TUBES
Z Wreck production amplifier exclusively uses the Tung Sol 12AX7 preamp tubes to achieve the exact upper Mid clang and delicious brilliance that separates their authentic “VOX” tone from other amps. Staying true to this original amp design, the Z Wreck module features dual Tung Sol 12AX7s – Dr. Z (Mike Zaite) uncompromising design ethos wouldn’t have it any other way. Tung Sol’s are a bit pricey but worth every penny in delivering the signature Z Wreck tone.

CATHODE SELECT FUNCTION
The Z WRECK module features a three-position switch on the PCB, which allows you to configure the input tube bass response to match the original circuit of the selected module. These settings affect the feel and tightness. Each amp designer has a specific combination of components that make up their input tube circuit. We have selected the three most popular combinations which you can access with this switch. The USA voiced modules typically use setting 1 (1.5K resistor and 22uf capacitor). British-style modules use position 2 (2.7K resistor and .68uf capacitor). The SOLDANO and VAI modules use position 3 (1.8K resistor and 1uf capacitor). Of course, you can experiment and try any positions to see what you prefer. The modules will come preset to the designer’s preferred setting which for the Z Wreck is position 1 (1.5K resistor and 22uf capacitor).

Synergy hardware and interchangeable preamps are protected under US patent.