Synergy Modules | Tone King Imperial MKII

The Tone King Imperial Dual Channel All-Valve Synergy Preamp Module brings the full character of the Imperial MKII into the modular Synergy ecosystem. For nearly two decades, Tone King has defined premium American tube tone, and no amp represents that legacy better than the Imperial MKII. From shimmering Blackface cleans to mid-50s Tweed grit, the Imperial is known for touch-sensitive dynamics, blooming harmonics and a uniquely expressive feel. Now, through a collaboration with Synergy, that entire experience has been recreated in a dual-channel, all-valve preamp module.

The Imperial module mirrors the two-channel layout of the original amplifier, with independent Rhythm and Lead channels, intuitive controls and the unmistakable response of a handwired American classic. It delivers the same powerful, dynamic voice as the full-size amp, now with the flexibility and integration of the Synergy platform.

Vintage American Tones Reimagined

The Rhythm channel captures the glassy highs, round lows and articulate clarity of a great Blackface-era amp. It excels at crisp chords, bluesy leads and wide, three-dimensional clean textures. The Lead channel is voiced after a mid-50s Tweed amp pushed into natural overdrive, delivering thick, harmonically rich breakup with the authority and punch of a cranked vintage combo. Each channel includes its own tone shaping, Volume and Attenuation controls, allowing precise sculpting of both clean and driven tones.

True Analog Bias Tremolo

A signature feature of the Imperial MKII is faithfully recreated here: a true analog bias-modulated tremolo. This classic circuit produces warm, pulsing movement that breathes life into your playing. The tremolo can be assigned to either or both channels, and is tuned for musical consistency across all settings.

Dual-Channel Tube Preamp Architecture

The Imperial module uses two 12AX7 tubes to deliver authentic all-valve performance.

The result is a preamp that responds with the same harmonic bloom, dynamic nuance and touch sensitivity as the original Imperial MKII.

Zero Watt Poweramp Technology

At the heart of the module is Synergy's Zero Watt Poweramp system. This incorporates the exact phase inverter circuitry of the Imperial MKII, using one of the 12AX7 tubes to replicate the harmonic behaviour and dynamic feel of the original amp's power section. Whether you're recording direct, running into a PA or integrating with an existing rig, the Zero Watt Poweramp provides the missing ingredient that makes the module feel like a complete vintage tube amp.

Mid-Bite Control

Exclusive to the Lead channel, the Mid-Bite control adjusts the overdrive structure itself. Increasing Mid-Bite tightens the low end, boosts upper mids and adds gain, shifting the tone from warm, articulate cleans to aggressive, British-flavoured crunch. It moves seamlessly from Tweed grit to modern punchy overdrive, all within a single channel.

Attenuation and HF Comp

Each channel includes an Attenuation control inspired by the Iron Man II attenuator from the original Imperial MKII. These function as per-channel master volumes. The HF Comp switch acts as a treble cut, softening high frequencies when needed.

Cathode Select Function

A three-position Cathode Select switch on the PCB allows you to tailor the input tube's bass response and feel. The module ships with Tone King's preferred setting, capturing the warm, expressive character of the Imperial MKII while still offering flexibility for players who want to explore alternative voicings.

The Tone King Imperial module delivers the full character, nuance and musicality of a revered American boutique amp, now in a flexible modular format that fits any modern rig.