Synaptic Amplification
 

Original Prototype

The Pure-Drive SE is Synaptic Amp's debut model. Diverging from modern trends favoring excessive panel controls, channel switching, and other gimmicks the Pure-Drive SE embraces the core audiophile principle that using the fewest components of the highest quality achieves superior tone and feel. Rich cleans transition gracefully to responsive overdrive with the mere control of playing dynamics. At just under 15 watts, the Pure-Drive SE is ideally suited as a rehearsal / recording amp. Over-engineered for rugged reliable performance. Seasonable to taste.

Features

circuit board

    • Handwired point-to-point / turret lug circuit construction.
    • Dovetailed Mahogany / Birdseye Maple cabinet.
    • Oversized Mercury Magnetics transformers.
    • Standard Tubes: 2 x 12AX7, 1 x EL34.
    • 7-15 Watts class-A power based on output tube selection. EL34 Output = 12W.
    • Adjustable cathode bias.
    • In / Thru circuitry for parallel amp / effects routing.
    • Drive control adjusts overall sensitivity and loudness.
    • 3 Knob EQ to control bass response, mid contour and overall tone.
    • 4 / 8 / 16 Ohm impedance selector with dual output jacks.

Available Options and Accessories

Cabinet Wood Options: Custom cabinets can be made on request from a wide variety of hardwoods including but not limited to American Cherry, Mahogany, Bubinga, Padouk, Lacewood, and Zebrawood or a combination of woods. Wood pricing and availability is always changing so contact us for details. If you insist on tolex we'll do it but it'll cost extra...

Protective Cases: A gig bag is recommended to protect your amp in transport. Our custom fitted "clam shell" bags are ruggedly built with padded water resistant nylon to help keep your amp safe from dents, scratches and the elements. For serious transport a custom flight case is recommended and can be provided.

Component Upgrades: For the most serious tone connoisseurs a variety of high-end components are available as optional upgrades. PEC military-grade potentiometers won't necessarily deliver any significant difference in audio quality when compared with standard CTS pots but they'll last longer and survive more abuse. Additionally, the audio taper of the military volume controls offer a superior feel lacking the abruptness of consumer-grade "log" pots. Jensen foil-in-oil capacitors are exceptional signal caps handmade in Denmar and can be substituted on request. While the benefits of these caps may be limited in certain circuit positions we highly recommend the Jensens for critical tone control applications. Other upgrade options available upon request.

Tube Experimentation:

experimental tube set

The easiest and least invasive way to modify the tone of your amp is by experimenting with different tubes. The Pure-Drive SE is capable of running a wide range of common octal-based output tubes. Each output tube type and brand has it's own characteristic signature ranging from the cutting grind of the EL34 to the creamy overdrive of the 5881. Lower the wattage for a late night recording session by swapping in a 6V6 or throw in a KT66/6L6GC to extend the headroom for more clean power. Recommended tubes:

    • 6V6 (EH / Tung-Sol)
    • 5881 (Tung-Sol)
    • EL34 (EH / Mullard)
    • 6L6GC (EH)
    • KT66 (Genalex)

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 © 2007    Synaptic Amplification     Brunswick, ME  USA     1 (207) 841-7090     synapticamps@gmail.com
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