Synergy Amps RD 2 Channel Preamp Module

British Flavoured Preamp Module

Two distinct shades of British gain. Two identical, fully independent channels. One remarkably flexible all-tube module.

Some amplifier designs are recognized as much by their sound as by their unmistakable color. The Synergy RD module captures two of the most revered British high-gain voices ever created, delivering everything from muscular rock crunch to thick, saturated modern gain.

Designed for Synergy’s all-tube modular preamp system, the RD features two identical channels, each capable of delivering two distinct British gain personalities. Whether you’re chasing articulate hard rock rhythm tones, crushing modern metal, or soaring lead sounds, the RD delivers the signature grind, punch, and harmonic richness that have made these circuits favorites on stages and in studios around the world.

Like every Synergy module, the RD is engineered to capture not only the tone, but the feel, touch sensitivity and responsiveness that inspire players every time they plug in.

Rock and Dark British Voices

In ROCK mode, the RD delivers the instantly recognizable voice of a modern British rock amplifier - tight, aggressive and remarkably articulate. From thick classic rock crunch to singing lead tones, it offers exceptional note definition while retaining the bold midrange punch and authority that have made this style of amplifier a modern favorite.

In DARK mode the RD transforms into an entirely different beast. The gain structure becomes thicker, darker and more saturated, with a heavier low end and a more compressed feel that’s equally at home delivering crushing rhythm tones, doom-inspired textures and fluid, sustaining lead tones.

Each channel features a three-position Bright switch, allowing you to fine-tune the high-frequency response. Whether you need extra bite, a smoother response or something in between, the Bright switch makes dialing in the perfect top end quick and intuitive.

Independent Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble and Volume controls on both channels provide complete tonal flexibility. Because each channel is completely independent, the RD can function like two amplifiers in one. Dial in complementary rhythm and lead sounds, create vintage and modern variations of the same voice or build entirely different gain structures that are instantly available at the flip of a switch.

Cathode Select Function 

The input tube's cathode circuit determines how much low end reaches the gain stages.

• Position 1 - 1.5K resistor, 22uf capacitor. The fullest and loosest. The entire low end reaches the gain stages for maximum weight, a softer attack, and more bloom under saturation.
• Position 2 - 2.7K resistor, .68uf capacitor. The tightest and most focused. Low end is trimmed before the gain stages, firming up the pick attack and keeping palm mutes articulate at high gain. Factory setting.
• Position 3 - 1.8K resistor, 1uf capacitor. The middle ground. More body than position 2, without the looseness of position 1.

There is no wrong answer. Try all three and use the one that feels best under your hands.