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Synergy 1, 2 and 2i
All Synergy models look exactly alike from the front. The differences lie within and on the rear panel.
All Synergy's look exactly alike from the front. The technical differences are described below.
Synergy
1996-1997
new approx 7000 euro
used 1900-2200 euro
The original Synergy was a new design. It has a red display, only has output transformers (no input transformers), a single set of main and record outputs and "SYNERGY PREAMPLIFIER" printed on the back panel.
Synergy 2
1997-2000
new approx 7000 euro
used rarely offered
The Synergy 2 was a refinement of the original Synergy 1 and had a red display, both input- and output transformers, a second set of main- and record outputs (all parallel) and "SYNERGY PREAMPLIFIER SERIES II" printed on the rear panel. As far as I can tell the circuitry was the same as for Synergy 1.
Synergy 2i
2001-2007
new 7999 euro
used 2300-3200 euro
This update replaces the original amplifier board within the Synergy and Synergy II with a new, surface mount designed amplifier board and green or blue display and indicators. The majority of Synergy IIi preamplifiers have the words “SYNERGY PREAMPLIFIER SERIES IIi” laser engraved on the rear panel.
Synergy on top of a
Coherence II
The front panels have exactly the same buttons in exactly the same places. The only differences are that the Coherence has two more inputs. Interestingly though, the software is the same with the result that for the Synergy when toggling throught the inputs using the remote control, you pass two empty places between the last available input and the first.
Synergy in a Spider rack with a Wadia 861 on top
The differences in format are huge. If you place a Synergy on a Spider rack it almost seems silly because it occupies only the front two struds. But it still makes a lot of diffference for the sound.
Especially the Synergy 2i really needs a Spider rack to sound its best because it can be too laidback without it.
The Synergy was also available in black. In Europe you mostly see the silver finish but it seems that in the US you see the black models more often, although still not nearly as much as the silver models.
Synergy 2i inside
Synergy 1 inside
Synergy 1 and 2i
power supplies inside
Top with the green circuitboard is the Synergy 1, bottom with the red circuitboard is the Synergy 2i. On close inspection there are minor differences but they are broadly the same. Biggest difference are the capacitors but I have the suspicion that the silver ones were part of either a modification or replacements for damaged ones.
Problem Solving
Coherence, Synergy, Concentra, and Concerto IR Remote Control lock-up
The remote controls for the above listed products have an internal capacitor that can cause the microprocessor to lock when the battery has been nearly drained. This problem will continue even after a fresh battery has been installed. This capacitor allows the remote to continue to function even after the battery has become very weak. The solution to this problem is simple: remove the new battery and allow the remote to stand overnight with no battery installed. Once the battery is reinstalled in the morning, the remote should function properly again.
Complete lock-up
It can happen that the Synergy locks up when you operate many buttons at the same time and also adjust the volume. All you need to do is unplug the powercord, wait for 10 seconds and reconnect. If you reconnect too quickly, the Synergy may not work. The same is true if you swap the power cable or change the position in the extensionblock. As a rule of thumb: always wait 10 seconds before reconnecting the power.
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