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Reverb
5.0 (1)
$339.99 New
$225.99 Used
Thomann
5.0 (1)
$368.00

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module, a testament to high-end sound engineering. Crafted by the legendary Dave Friedman, this preamp module is your ticket to the grandeur of rock 'n' roll tones. The HBE Preamp Module draws its inspiration from the iconic Friedman BE-100 amplifier, providing you with an amplified experience that echoes the same robust power and nuanced character.

With the Synergy Friedman HBE preamp module, you get to experience the precise tone and impressive touch sensitivity of an HBE-boosted BE-100. Thanks to the dual channels powered by a pair of 12AX7 preamp tubes, you can easily switch between a high-gain rhythm tone and a boosted lead sound. The result is a tone that's present, aggressive, and addictively gratifying.

This module doesn't just emulate or model; it's a real deal designed by Dave Friedman himself. The Friedman HBE module also features a Cathode Select Switch, allowing you to configure the input tube bass response to match the original circuit of your preferred module. This unique feature ensures optimal feel and tightness, allowing you to truly tailor your sound.

Key Features:

  • Solid tube construction for premium sound quality
  • Developed by the legendary Dave Friedman
  • Inspired by the iconic Friedman BE-100, but with more gain for an amplified experience
  • Dual channels for versatile sound production
  • Equipped with 2x 12AX7 tubes for robust power
  • 3-Band EQ for precise sound shaping
  • Separate gain and volume controls for each channel
  • Cathode Select Switch for customized input tube bass response

Product specs

Available since April 2018
Design PlugIn Module
Tube(s) Yes
Amp Modeling No
Effects No
Headphone Output No
Direct Out No
MIDI Interface No
Integrated Expression Pedal No
Connections for Pedals or Switches No
Aux-Input No
Integrated Tuner No
USB-Port No
Drum-Computer No

FAQs

What kind of tones can the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module produce?

The Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module is known for delivering high-gain, British-style tones with a focus on clarity and punch, making it ideal for rock and metal genres.

Does the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module require any additional equipment to function?

Yes, the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module needs to be used with a compatible Synergy amplifier or a Synergy SYN-1 or SYN-2 docking station to operate.

Is the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module suitable for live performances?

The Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module is designed for both studio and live performance settings, providing versatile and powerful tones that can easily cut through a mix.

Can the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module be used for clean tones?

While primarily designed for high-gain tones, the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module can dial back for a more moderate gain, but it excels in delivering overdriven and distorted sounds rather than pristine clean tones.

Does the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module have built-in effects?

No, the Synergy Friedman HBE Preamp Module does not include any built-in effects, focusing solely on delivering high-quality preamp tones.

Sergey Golovin

Sergey Golovin

SYNERGY FRIEDMAN HBE MODULE VS FRIEDMAN BE100 DELUXE

Video thumbnail for SYNERGY FRIEDMAN HBE MODULE VS FRIEDMAN BE100 DELUXE by Sergey Golovin

SYNERGY FRIEDMAN HBE MODULE VS FRIEDMAN BE100 DELUXE

Sergey Golovin

Sergey Golovin

Video thumbnail for Synergy Friedman HBE Module Quick Listen Video Demo By Shawn Tubbs by Shawn Tubbs

Synergy Friedman HBE Module Quick Listen Video Demo By Shawn Tubbs

Shawn Tubbs

Shawn Tubbs

Video thumbnail for Synergy HBE Module Review - Compared with a Friedman BE100 by EytschPi42

Synergy HBE Module Review - Compared with a Friedman BE100

EytschPi42

EytschPi42

Video thumbnail for Synergy HBE Module Demo (5 different setups) by SynergyAmps

Synergy HBE Module Demo (5 different setups)

SynergyAmps

SynergyAmps

Video thumbnail for STRINGS SHOP DEMO : SYNERGY AMPS-FRIEDMAN HBE MODULE by Strings Shop

STRINGS SHOP DEMO : SYNERGY AMPS-FRIEDMAN HBE MODULE

Strings Shop

Strings Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module.

Mods and upgrades

  • The Synergy Friedman HBE module can be enhanced with custom mods by Jaded Faith or Salvation Audio for unique tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • Dave Friedman personally modding the HBE module enhances its sound quality significantly, as reported by some owners.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Synergy modules offer superior channel switching flexibility compared to older Randall and Egnater modules, enhancing user control over sound.

    Source
  • The RM20 combo is praised for its versatility across different gain settings, with the D-zilla module excelling in low-gain scenarios despite its metal-oriented design.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Synergy modules are considered more versatile than original Randall MTS modules, attributed to full EQ capabilities and non-shared features.

    Source
  • An RM22 offers lower wattage and dual slots, making it preferable for users who require versatility without overpowering volume.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently buy multiple modules and heads due to the affordability of used units, with some collecting up to 30 modules.

    Source
  • Owners note that some stock modules may be underwhelming, but modded versions or newer Synergy modules significantly improve the amp's performance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Synergy system is favored by musicians who appreciate the tone and customization of modded modules, as exemplified by use in setups like Billie Corgan's.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • An 18-20 watt EL84 power section is noted for providing ample power without overwhelming volume levels, suitable for various playing environments.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
parhelia_0000

The quintessential prog power metal preamp. Never looked back since.

Before using this preamp module, I used to have the Jaded Faith JFM800 module. While it did the job, it was very difficult to work with as the low-end was extremely muddy and the midrange was not defined well enough. Extreme EQ settings were required to make the JFM800 really work for the time.

Enter the Synergy Friedman HBE module. Based on the Hairy Brown Eye channel of the famous Friedman BE-100 amplifier, this preamp really delivers the goods. The low-end sounds tight and articulate from the get-go, the midrange is well-defined and with the added bonus of separate gain and volume levels for two channels, you can actually distinguish your own rhythm and lead channels for the sounds you're going for.

This preamp has solved a lot of issues for me. Before I had this, I had to crank up the Mud Control on my Electric Eye Audio Mud Killer overdrive just to get a passable metal tone. With the Friedman HBE module, I don't have to do that anymore. It's so amazing in fact, that the HBE module has also allowed me to get rid of the 6-band EQ from my pedalboard as well.

If you want the Galneryus tone in a preamp module, check out the Synergy Friedman HBE. I did, and so far, I haven't even considered going back to the JFM800 ever since.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Channel 1 Gain 12 o'clock, Channel 2 gain 2 o'clock, Bass 11 o'clock, Midrange 1 o'clock, Treble 2 o'clock, both channel volumes 11 o'clock

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Steve Vai uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Steve Vai

Guitarist

Whitesnake

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Steve Vai was seen using a Synergy SYN2 rackmount preamp and a 5050 power amp along with a bunch of Synergy preamps.

See how Stephen Carpenter uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Stephen Carpenter

Guitarist

Deftones

...
Verified via Photo

This amp is seen in this Instagram post

See how Ola Englund uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Ola Englund

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

Six Feet Under

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Ola Englund is shown to use three modular preamps from Synergy - Friedman HBE, Diezel VH4 and ENGL Savage.

See how John Browne uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

John Browne

Guitarist, Composer

Monuments

...
Verified via YouTube

At 13:30 in this video, John Browne's rig is also shown to consist of a Friedman HBE module by Synergy.

See how Syu uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Syu

Guitarist

Galneryus

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post made by Syu on January 19th of 2019, he was seen using a Synergy preamp modelled after a Friedman Brown Eye 100.

See how Glenn Fricker uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Glenn Fricker

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 19:54 in this video, Glenn Fricker mentions that he owns five modules from Synergy - Plexi, Diezel VH4, 800, Friedman HBE and the Soldano SLO.

See how Jeremy DePoyster uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Jeremy DePoyster

Guitarist

The Devil Wears Prada

...
Verified via YouTube

Jeremy DePoyster uses the Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module in his SYN-2 setup to achieve a modded Marshall-type tone and a clean sound, as showcased in a YouTube video by SynergyAmps.

See how Sergey Golovin uses Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module

Sergey Golovin

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Sergey mentions that he used a variety of studio gear as well as guitar amplifiers for his album "Satellite:"

-Eventide H3000 -Roland SDE3000 -Synergy Friedman HBE Module -Synergy SYN-1 -Marshall Silver Jubilee -Custom Audio Amplification PT100 -Gibson Les Paul -Lexicon PCM80 -st.Rock React:IR -Mesa Boogie Mark V -Synergy Metro Plex -MXR/CAE Line Driver Booster -Marshall Plexi MkII -Universal Audio Apollo 8 -Zilla 2x12 cabinet with Celestion Vintage 30's and Creamback's -Shure SM57 -Model D Synth -Oberheim OB-Xa

Album Usage

The Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
parhelia_0000

parhelia_0000

Gear IQ 10745

parhelia_0000

parhelia_0000

Gear IQ 10745

parhelia_0000

parhelia_0000

Gear IQ 10745

parhelia_0000

parhelia_0000

Gear IQ 10745

1 alternative for Synergy Amps Friedman HBE Preamp Module, curated by the Equipboard community.

Synergy Amps Friedman BE-DLX 2-channel Preamp Module

$399.99 - $1,459.99

newer

BE-DLX module combines the best of BE and HBE into a single module, phasing out the need to have dedicated BE and HBE modules separately.

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