Description
The Synergy SYN-20IR 1×12 Combo is a compact, 20-watt all-valve modular amplifier that gives you genuine tube feel, studio-grade IR cabinet simulation and three fully programmable channels in one grab-and-go combo. With a built-in American-style clean channel, a slot for any Synergy two-channel preamp module and powerful MIDI/USB control, it is designed to cover everything from home practice and silent recording to full gigs without changing your core rig.
At its heart is Synergy’s patented all-tube modular system, letting you load preamp modules based on some of the world’s most iconic amps. Each module drops in quickly and carries its own dual-12AX7 preamp, so you can go from classic British chime to modern high-gain simply by swapping modules. Add in the Celestion Vintage 30-loaded 1×12 cabinet, selectable power amp Structure modes, ultra-low-latency IRs and full MIDI programmability, and you have a truly professional solution for players who want real valves, modern flexibility and consistent tones anywhere.
Modular all-valve tone platform
The SYN-20IR Combo is built around Synergy’s modular preamp system, so you can load any compatible two-channel module and instantly access the circuitry and feel of legendary amplifiers. Each module runs on real 12AX7 valves and is co-designed with the original amp brands, giving you authentic character with extra flexibility. As your tastes or gigs change, you simply swap modules instead of buying a whole new amp.
Three fully programmable channels
Alongside the interchangeable two-channel module, the SYN-20IR includes its own vintage-inspired American clean channel with dedicated Volume and Tone controls. That gives you three independent channels in one combo, all assignable with different Structure modes and IRs. Whether you need sparkling cleans, edge-of-breakup crunch and saturated lead, or any other combination, you can store and recall it at the tap of a footswitch.
Advanced power amp shaping
A 20-watt EL84 power section delivers the touch response and harmonic richness players expect from a real valve amp, while the unique Structure and Reactance controls let you fine-tune how that power stage behaves. Three selectable Structure modes re-voice the phase inverter and feedback for everything from open and punchy to tight and modern, and Reactance dynamically shapes the upper mids and highs. The result is a combo that can be tailored to your guitar, module and playing style without extra pedals.
Built-in IRs and cab-less operation
The SYN-20IR features a dedicated digital engine for its onboard cabinet IRs, with under 1ms latency for an immediate, amp-like feel. You can assign different IRs per channel, run direct via the balanced XLR out, record silently, or practise with headphones while still enjoying realistic cabinet tone. Using the free Synergy Editor software, you can load your own IRs, manage the included library and fine-tune power amp simulation for consistent, mix-ready sounds wherever you plug in.
MIDI and software control
With the included 3-button programmable MIDI footswitch and full MIDI implementation, the SYN-20IR makes complex setups simple. Store combinations of channels, Structure modes and IRs as presets and recall them instantly onstage. Connect external MIDI controllers for up to 128 presets, and use the Synergy Editor via USB to organise your sounds, assign functions and keep your rig streamlined for any session or show.
Key Features
- All-valve modular 20-watt combo – A 20W EL84 power section and modular 12AX7 preamp architecture deliver genuine tube dynamics with the flexibility to change your amp’s core voice by swapping Synergy modules, rather than entire amplifiers.
- Three-channel versatility with vintage clean – The built-in American-style clean channel joins the two channels of your chosen module to create a powerful three-channel rig, letting you cover clean, crunch and lead tones from a single, portable combo.
- Onboard IRs and silent direct outputs – Integrated low-latency IR cabinet simulation, XLR DI and headphone outputs give you convincing miked-cab sounds straight to front of house, interface or headphones, ideal for silent practice, recording and consistent live tones.
- Structure and Reactance power amp shaping – Three selectable Structure modes and the Reactance control reshape the power amp’s feel and frequency response, so you can dial in anything from open and vintage to tight and modern without changing your core setup.
Specifications
General
- Product: Synergy SYN-20IR 1×12 All-Tube Modular Combo Amplifier
- Power: 20 watts
- Amplifier Type: All-valve modular guitar combo
- Channels: 3 (1 built-in clean channel, 2 channels via Synergy module)
- Assembly: Assembled in the USA
Preamp & Power Amp
- Preamp Valves: 2 x 12AX7 in the amp (plus 2 x 12AX7 in installed module)
- Power Valves: 2 x EL84
- Built-in Clean Channel: Based on vintage American tube combo amps
- Clean Channel Controls: Volume, Tone
- Master Controls: Master Volume, Reactance (dynamic presence)
Power Amp Structure
- Selectable Structure Modes:
- Mode A: Balanced negative feedback for a clear yet punchy sound
- Mode B: Vintage-style phase inverter with relaxed mids and bright, shimmering highs
- Mode C: Modern HiFi-style phase inverter with low negative feedback for a tight feel, solid lows and darker high end
- Structure modes assignable per channel
Impulse Response & Direct Features
- IR Engine: Dedicated digital processor with under 1ms latency
- Onboard IR Presets: 4 IR slots, individually programmable per channel
- Included IRs: 13 factory IRs (via Synergy Editor)
- IR Cabinet Simulation: Low-latency, bypassable
- Power Amp Simulation: Adjustable via software with assignable low-pass and high-pass filtering
- IR Management: Load and organise user IRs via Synergy Editor software
- Balanced Output: XLR DI with Ground Lift
- Cab-less Operation: Safe direct use without external speaker cabinet
- Headphone Output: With dedicated Volume control
Speaker & Cabinet
- Speaker Configuration: 1 x 12
- Speaker Model: Celestion Vintage 30
- Cabinet Construction: Solid Baltic Birch
Connectivity
- Effects Loop: Ultra-transparent series FX loop
- Speaker Outputs:
- 1 x 16 ohm
- 2 x 8 ohm (parallel)
- 2 x 4 ohm (parallel)
- MIDI/Footswitch Input: 7-pin
- USB: For Synergy Editor software connection
MIDI & Control
- Included Footswitch: 3-button programmable MIDI footswitch
- Included Cable: 7-pin MIDI cable
- MIDI Capability: Up to 128 user presets with external MIDI controllers
- Preset Storage: Save combinations of channels, Structure modes and IRs
- Software: Synergy Editor software (USB connection)
- Included USB Cable: 6 ft
Power & Voltage
- Voltage: Universal with rear-panel voltage selector
- Operation: Select appropriate mains voltage and fuse rating for region
Dimensions & Weight
- Width: 22 in
- Depth: 10.25 in
- Height: 20.75 in
- Weight: 44.7 lb
