Synergy SYN-50 - Anyone?

[Junk Yard Dog]

I played one and liked it but didn’t spend enough time. It had the Diezel and SLO modules. Preferred the SLO. I have a JJ100 I love, but am open to trying new things and love the concept of the SYN-50.

Who has one or has played one extensively? Thoughts?

 

[Rising Farce]

I've been using the modular gear (Randall, Egnater, and, more recently, Synergy) on and off for going on 10 years now, so I have some insight.

The SYN-50's power section is essentially that of a Fryette PS-2, which can be good or bad depending on your preferences. Personally, I preferred my Egnater MOD 50 to the ultra-clean, stiff, sterile SYN-50, as it has a bit more "bounce" and character.

On the other hand, MOD heads are hard to find these days, and the more common Randall MTS amps aren't in the same league as the Egnater or Synergy in terms of build quality. (They also use comparatively cheap CMEC transformers instead of the Heyboers in the Eggie, which makes a noticeable difference.)

So, to sum up, if you're looking to get into the modular scene and can't find a MOD head, the SYN-50 is probably your best bet. Just be forewarned that Synergy has a bad habit of announcing new preamp modules and then not releasing them for months, if ever.

In any case, good luck.

 

[peckhart]

Back in 2012 I stepped out of my gigging band and sold off a bunch of gear. In search of something new and different I got an Egnater Renegade. It actually was really cool but the reliability issues many warned about become obvious right away and I returned it. In the midst of that someone recommended the MOD 50 or 100 and turned me onto the concept of the modules. Holy hell in a hand basket did I ever jump in and frolic in that rabbit hole. Constantly adding and flipping modules to try. Some really cool stuff in the modular world, but you can sink a lot of money into in the blink of an eye. At least you aren't paying for shipping on a full amp I guess.
I should have lead with...I haven't played the new SYN-50 and can't directly answer you, but my modular journey is enough to warn you to be careful about opening that box.