Synergy RD Tube Preamp Module - Black

Two distinct shades of British gain meet two fully independent channels in the Synergy RD, an all-tube preamp module built to move from tight, articulate rock crunch to thick, saturated high gain without locking either channel into a single personality. Each channel can be independently set to Rock or Dark mode, then shaped with dedicated Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble and Volume controls for everything from complementary rhythm and lead sounds to radically different gain structures. Individual three-position Bright switches provide further control over each channel's high-frequency response, while a three-position Cathode Select adjusts low-end response and attack at the input stage for an even deeper level of feel shaping. Powered by two 12AX7 preamp tubes, the RD delivers the dynamics, harmonic richness and touch sensitivity of an all-tube signal path. Fully compatible with Synergy preamp docks, SYN Series amplifiers and modular preamp systems, the RD packs a remarkably broad range of British-flavored gain into a single interchangeable module.

Rock and Dark Modes Deliver Two Distinct British Gain Voices

The RD centers its tonal range around two contrasting British-inspired gain personalities, with a dedicated Rock/Dark switch on each channel. Rock mode emphasizes tight response, aggressive attack and clear note definition, combining bold midrange punch with enough articulation to keep chords and fast passages defined as the gain rises. Switching to Dark reshapes the response with a heavier low end, thicker saturation and greater compression for a denser, more fluid feel. Because the voicing switch operates independently on both channels, either side of the RD can be configured for Rock or Dark response, allowing players to pair the two voices or build separate variations around the same core gain character.

Fully Independent Channels for Two Complete Gain Setups

Both RD channels provide their own Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble and Volume controls, allowing each side of the module to function as a complete, independently configured preamp voice. One channel can be dialed for tighter rhythm response while the other carries additional gain and volume for leads, or both can use the same Rock or Dark mode with entirely different gain and EQ settings. A three-position Bright switch on each channel adds another layer of independent shaping, making it possible to emphasize high-frequency bite, smooth the top end or choose a response between those extremes. With voicing, gain structure, EQ, level and brightness all configurable per channel, the RD makes substantial tonal changes immediately available without requiring adjustments between sounds.

Cathode Select Fine-Tunes Low-End Feel and Attack

The RD's three-position Cathode Select changes the input tube's cathode circuit to control how much low end reaches the gain stages, providing a direct way to tailor the module's feel as well as its tone. Position 1 allows the fullest low-frequency response into the gain structure, producing greater weight, a softer attack and more bloom under saturation. Position 2, the factory setting, trims more low end before the gain stages for the tightest response, firmer pick attack and greater articulation at higher gain levels. Position 3 occupies the middle ground, adding more body than Position 2 while remaining more controlled than Position 1. This lets players fine-tune the RD's fundamental response around their preferred attack, gain level and playing feel.

Two British Voices, Two Channels, One Flexible Tube Module

The Synergy RD brings substantial tonal range to the modular format without sacrificing the immediacy and response of an all-tube preamp. Two 12AX7 tubes provide the foundation for its dynamic gain character, while independent Rock/Dark voicing, Bright switching and complete channel controls make it easy to build two contrasting sounds within a single module. Cathode Select reaches deeper into the gain structure to tailor low-end weight and attack, adding another dimension beyond conventional EQ. Compatible with Synergy preamp docks, SYN Series amplifiers and modular preamp systems, the RD gives players a flexible way to add everything from articulate British crunch to dense, saturated high gain to an existing Synergy rig.