Synergy Modules | T-Dlx Preamp

The SYNERGY TDLX Preamp Module is designed to replicate the sonic characteristics of two highly regarded American guitar amplifiers from the mid-1960s. These amplifiers, originating from California, are renowned for their clean and slightly overdriven tones and have been extensively used in recordings and live performances across various musical genres. The TDLX module aims to provide users with access to these classic sounds within the flexible Synergy modular amplifier system.

One channel of the TDLX module focuses on delivering high-headroom clean tones. This makes it suitable for players seeking pristine, uncoloured sounds, as well as a solid foundation for adding effects pedals. The ample headroom ensures that the clean tones remain clear and articulate even at higher volume levels, a characteristic often associated with the larger amplifiers of the era.

The second channel of the TDLX module is engineered to produce the tube-driven breakup and sag that is characteristic of the smaller 1x12" combo amplifiers from the same period. This channel allows guitarists to achieve vintage-style overdriven tones with a dynamic response, where the level of distortion and compression reacts to the player's picking intensity. This type of tone is often described as inspiring and has contributed to the signature sounds of numerous guitarists.

To further tailor the sound, the TDLX module includes both bright and tight switches. These switches allow users to modify the tonal character of each channel, enabling them to fine-tune the response and achieve the specific sonic nuances they are seeking. This versatility ensures that the module can be effectively integrated into a wide range of guitar rigs and musical styles, providing access to various shades of 1960s American amplifier tones.

The module features two independent channels, each equipped with controls for gain, volume, and a three-band equaliser (bass, middle, treble). This provides comprehensive control over the tonal shaping of each channel, allowing for precise adjustments to match different guitars, speaker cabinets, and musical contexts.

A notable feature of the TDLX module is its Cathode Select Switch. This three-position switch allows users to configure the input tube's bass response, emulating different component combinations found in the input stages of classic amplifiers. This patent-pending feature directly influences the feel and tightness of the sound, providing subtle yet significant variations in the module's responsiveness. The module is factory-set to position 1, which corresponds to the component values found in the Fender Twin/Deluxe amplifiers (1.5K resistor and 22uf capacitor).

For users with older single-channel Egnater and Randall modular amplifiers or preamps, the TDLX module incorporates a Dual<>Single Slide Switch. This switch enables the dual-channel module to be used in these older units, which do not inherently support dual-channel modules. By setting the switch to either 'Dual' or 'Single', users can select which of the TDLX module's two channels will be active when the corresponding slot on their older hardware is engaged. It is important to note that channel switching will not be possible in these older single-channel units. Setting the switch to 'Dual' will activate the bottom channel of the module, while setting it to 'Single' will activate the top channel. When used in newer Synergy units that support dual-channel switching, the switch should be set to 'Dual' to enable access to both channels.