I’m running a Synergy SYN-2 into a Fryette LX II (stereo, 6L6).
I’ve been experimenting with keeping the LX II master almost maxed out and setting the SYN-2’s global output and module levels quite low —around 8 o’clock.
At those settings it’s still plenty loud, but the rig feels more alive—notes seem richer in harmonic content, with extra girth, sustain, and a kind of “breathing” quality even though I’m not sending a hot signal into the power amp.
My question:
Is running the LX II with the master nearly wide open and the SYN-2 output low a good way to let the power amp operate in its most dynamic range?
Or does the LX II actually need a stronger input signal to reach the region where its phase inverter and output tubes start adding harmonic richness?
Basically, I’m trying to confirm whether this high-master / low-input setup is how the LX II is meant to be driven if I want more power-tube feel rather than just preamp distortion and midrange density from the Synergy modules.
Thanks in advance—any clarification from Steve or anyone who’s tested this in depth would be hugely appreciated.
The LXII can take any number of input signals, but I personally would feed it a regular ol’ line level. Do amplifiers feel and sound better turned up, absolutely. Feeding it a low input signal to get the power tubes working, yes, you could do that. Usually the idea is to feed the power amplifier line level and then get loud when you have the ability to do so. We live in a time where turning up is looked down upon by most of the sound people working clubs and venues. At the same time, they are still mic’ing drums. I say turn it up with a regular line level signal and you’ll get the feeling of the full amplifier. Most amp builders don’t attenuate their circuits that drastically to get what they are looking for. They build an amplifier fully expecting it to get turned up to the point of power amp saturation. Find the sweet spot and go with it!
Thanks a lot for the clarification — really appreciate you taking the time.
I’m currently working on Royal Caribbean ships playing in a rock show, and yeah… even here the sound guys don’t want the guitar too loud. They still prefer to mic the cab and feed it through those ceiling speakers scattered around the room — not exactly ideal for feel or stage energy, but I get it.
So I’ve been experimenting to find a “cooking” tone that still feels alive while keeping them happy out front. Your input helps me understand what’s really happening in the amp so I can make it work within those limits.