Synergy Modules | Steve Vai Signature Preamp

The SYNERGY VAI SIGNATURE Preamp Module is the first signature module in the Synergy system developed in collaboration with Steve Vai. Recognised for his distinctive tone, technical proficiency, and innovative approach to the electric guitar, Steve Vai rigorously evaluated numerous amplifiers before choosing the Synergy platform. The Synergy system offers the advantage of an all-tube signal path combined with the versatility of interchangeable preamps designed by acclaimed amp builders such as Friedman, Soldano, Bogner, Diezel, ENGL, Morgan, Fryette, and Metropoulos. Steve Vai himself stated, "Why play one great amp, when with Synergy I can play them all."

The "VAI" module is the result of an extensive design process involving months of collaboration, testing, and refinement to meet Steve Vai's precise requirements. This dual-channel all-tube module provides a wide sonic palette. The blue channel, located at the bottom, delivers a range of clean tones, progressing to slightly overdriven American-style sounds. To further shape the clean tones, the channel features FAT and BRIGHT switches, allowing for subtle adjustments to the tonal character.

The red channel, situated at the top, offers higher gain tones suitable for a variety of rock and metal styles, from the aggressive low-tuned sounds heard in "Bad Horsie" to the sustained harmonic richness of "For the Love of God." This channel is also equipped with mini toggle switches for BOOST and BRIGHT functions, providing additional options for tailoring the overdrive and distortion characteristics.

A key feature of the Synergy system is its modularity, allowing users to easily install and remove preamp modules from Synergy preamp docks. The VAI module utilises two 12AX7 preamp tubes, contributing to its rich harmonic performance.

Furthermore, the VAI module incorporates a DUAL/SINGLE switch, enhancing its compatibility. This switch enables the module to be used with older single-channel Egnater and Randall modular amplifiers and preamps that do not typically support dual-channel modules. In these older units, the switch allows the user to select either the blue or the red channel to be active when the module slot is engaged. While switching between the two channels is not possible due to the limitations of the older hardware, this feature significantly expands the usability of the VAI module.

Another notable feature is the three-position cathode select switch located on the PCB. This switch allows users to configure the input tube bias setting, thereby influencing the input gain and bass response of the module. This feature aims to replicate the specific input tube circuit designs of various amplifier styles. Setting 1 corresponds to the voicing typically found in USA-style amplifiers, employing a 1.5K resistor and a 22uf capacitor. Position 2 emulates the British style, utilising a 2.7K resistor and a .68uf capacitor. The VAI module is factory set to position 3, which uses a 1.8K resistor and a 1uf capacitor, similar to the SOLDANO module's setting. Users are encouraged to experiment with all three positions to find their preferred tonal characteristics.

The Synergy system, with modules like the Steve Vai Signature Preamp Module, addresses the demands of modern guitarists for versatile all-tube tones suitable for direct recording, lower stage volumes, and compact rigs. The collaboration with a respected artist like Steve Vai further underscores the quality and sonic capabilities of this preamp module.