Synergy Dr. Z Z Wreck 2-Channel Preamp Module

Description

From Synergy:

The Z Wreck tube amp from the legendary Dr. Z is the brainchild of some of the most well-respected names in electric guitar tone: Brad Paisley, Dr. Z (Mike Zaite), and the late Ken Fischer of Trainwreck. Inspired by Paisley’s vision, this vintage-style tube amp has become famous for its touch response and tonal versatility. The Z Wreck amp resonates with rich detail, allowing you to explore clean and chiming tones or to be pushed for that signature bloom and vocal-like drive.

The Synergy Z Wreck preamp, in a development partnership with Dr. Z, brings the magic of the Z Wreck amplifier to the popular tube modular platform. This is Synergy’s first module with an integrated, 0-watt power amplifier, complete with a phase inverter and onboard transformer. This transformative design, combined with Z Wreck’s distinctive Speed and Comfort settings unlock a vast array of expressive, harmonically complex tones. From pristine, smooth cleans, to pushed tones for sustained vocal-like gain, the Z WRECK preamp module links your heart, fingers, and tone.

SPEED AND COMFORT

When designing the original Z Wreck amplifier, Mike Zaite and Ken Fischer provided Brad Paisley two options. The Speed setting was Mike’s preference, with a higher power transformer voltage (330V) which delivered a percussive attack on the notes with great articulate. “Comfort” was Ken’s choice which had a bit lower transformer voltage (300V) and allowed for an initial attack and then a slight swell on the notes for smoother drive.

Brad compared the settings and loved them both which gave birth to the Comfort / Speed switch. This switch is faithfully re-created in the Synergy Z Wreck module.

ON-BOARD PHASE INVERTER – THE MOST INNOVATIVE SYNERGY MODULE TO DATE

A typical guitar tube amp is comprised of a power amp and a preamp. A power amp is comprised of a phase inverter, power tubes and a transformer. In most amps the majority of the tone is derived from the pre-amp section. The Z Wreck amplifier however derives a significant portion of its signature tone from the power amp, creating a major engineering obstacle for designing a Synergy preamp module. In collaboration with Mike Zaite the Synergy team resolved this issue by incorporating an actual “0 watt power amp”, phase inverter and small transformer into the module design. This innovative solution resulted in this module authentically capturing the harmonic and dynamic content of the Z WRECK power amp including the “CUT” knob, which is a part of the power amp section.

This engineering achievement has opened the door for Synergy towards flexibility and infinite tonal options for the entire Synergy eco system.

DUAL-CHANNEL, TUBE PREAMP

The Synergy Z Wreck module from Dr. Z faithfully replicates the original amp’s musical qualities across two identical channels. Effortlessly switch between pristine clean tones and thick, driven sounds, or customize your rhythm and lead tones with independent Volume, Bass, and Treble controls. The Cut knobs refine the module’s high-end detail. At the same time, Speed (a strong attack with increased clarity and dynamic headroom) and Comfort (a vintage feel, softer response, and more overall sweetness) settings define its touch response. You can also balance the channels’ outputs with independent Master volume controls.

TUNGSOL TUBES

Z Wreck production amplifier exclusively uses the Tung Sol 12AX7 preamp tubes to achieve the exact upper Mid clang and delicious brilliance that separates their authentic “VOX” tone from other amps. Staying true to this original amp design, the Z Wreck module features dual Tung Sol 12AX7s – Dr. Z (Mike Zaite) uncompromising design ethos wouldn’t have it any other way. Tung Sol’s are a bit pricey but worth every penny in delivering the signature Z Wreck tone.

CATHODE SELECT FUNCTION

The Z WRECK module features a three-position switch on the PCB, which allows you to configure the input tube bass response to match the original circuit of the selected module. These settings affect the feel and tightness. Each amp designer has a specific combination of components that make up their input tube circuit. We have selected the three most popular combinations which you can access with this switch. The USA voiced modules typically use setting 1 (1.5K resistor and 22uf capacitor). British-style modules use position 2 (2.7K resistor and .68uf capacitor). The SOLDANO and VAI modules use position 3 (1.8K resistor and 1uf capacitor). Of course, you can experiment and try any positions to see what you prefer. The modules will come preset to the designer’s preferred setting which for the Z Wreck is position 1 (1.5K resistor and 22uf capacitor).

Synergy hardware and interchangeable preamps are protected under US patent.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Built in U.S.A.
All-tube preamp module custom designed by Dr. Z and Synergy
Two identical channels offer the full range of unequaled touch response ranging from twang to rock
Speed/Comfort setting to enable a precise touch response setting
Green Channel – Volume, Speed/Comfort, Bass Treble, Cut, Master
Red Channel – Volume, Speed/Comfort, Bass Treble, Cut, Master
2 x Tung Sol 12AX7 preamp tubes ensure rich harmonic performance
Easy to install and remove from Synergy preamp docks

Shipping & Returns

Free Shipping

Most orders over $99.00 ship for free inside the lower 48 states. Certain items that are large and heavy do not qualify for free shipping.

We Ship Worldwide!

For information on International Shipping, please call, email or use live chat for rates. Orders shipping outside the Lower 48 States to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico and international orders do not qualify for free shipping. Orders shipping to U.S. Military APO/FPO addresses, PO Boxes, and US territories (Guam, Virgin Islands, etc.) can only ship USPS. NOTE: Boxes over 70 lbs each cannot be shipped to these locations.

As a security precaution, orders over $200.00 will only ship to the address your credit card company has on file for you.

*Korg and Mesa/Boogie products are only available for shipment within the USA.

Returns

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase, so we offer a 48 hour approval period on most purchases (see exclusions below). The 48 hour approval period begins when your purchased item is delivered to your door. If after 48 hours you’re not happy with the item, just contact us via phone, email or live chat on our website to arrange for a return authorization (RA#) and return shipping instructions. Any package sent back without prior authorization will be refused.

Returns must be shipped back to us within two days of the RA being issued. Items must come back to us undamaged and in the same condition they were shipped out. All manuals, paperwork, cables, tremolo arms, wrenches, etc… must be included or full credit will not be issued. Any items not conforming to this policy will be subject (at our discretion) to a restocking fee of 20% of the purchase price.

Refunds will be issued minus all related shipping expenses, if free shipping was initially given, the cost we incurred to get the item to you will be deducted from your refund. A 10% restock fee will also be deducted from your refund. Restock fees will be waived for full value exchanges.

Here are exceptions to our return policy.

Custom orders of any kind are non returnable and non refundable. We often charge a deposit before we will place a custom or special order. All special order deposits are NON REFUNDABLE, no exceptions.
Microphones, Harmonicas, In-Ear Systems and any other items that come into contact with your mouth or ears.
Items labeled as BLOWOUT, are non-returnable. These are often being sold below cost and are considered “all sales final”.
Software (this may also include hardware that includes software), unless still in shrink wrap with barcode affixed.
Guitar strings, blank media, and other disposable merchandise.
Guitar or bass pickups that have been installed or used in any way.
Any item advertised as “USED” is non returnable.

*Payments for music lessons are non refundable, no exceptions.

View our detailed Return Policy here.

Early Order Cancellation

All deposits are non refundable. Lots of our products are special orders and in many cases your order has to be built for you at the factory. This is what makes a lot of our products special. Once your order is started, it's being put together just for you. For this reason we ask that you don't cancel your order after you place it with us. If for some reason you absolutely have to cancel your order with us, we will assess you a 25% cancellation charge. This amount is equal to 25% of your total order amount. Ask us before you place your order to see if what you're purchasing is considered a special order.

Damaged Merchandise

Do not accept your shipment if the package shows any signs of external damage. After the item is returned to us we will ship you a replacement. If you receive incorrect or defective merchandise, please call 781-335-0700 within 5 days for a return authorization number.