Description

The Pathos Synapse Stereo Preamplifier was engineered as the natural partner to Pathos’ flagship Adrenalin monoblock power amplifiers, embodying the same uncompromising design philosophy in a dedicated preamplifier. Built as a genuinely balanced, two-stage design, the Synapse operates with zero global feedback and is entirely bi-monaural — meaning each channel runs on its own dedicated power supply, its own line stage, its own control signals, and its own ground, with direct-coupled Class-A operation throughout.

Physically, the Synapse is constructed as a two-chassis unit, separating the electrically noisy power supply and control circuitry from the sensitive analog signal path. The lower chassis houses the power supply and all control logic, including a distinctive fluorescent display, while the upper chassis contains the analog signal management stages, kept deliberately isolated from interference. The connection between the two sections runs through photo-couplers, ensuring complete electrical separation and eliminating ground loops. In practice, the design goes even further than a simple two-box separation: the line stages of the left and right channels are themselves completely isolated from one another at both the power supply and ground level, making the Synapse function almost like a three-chassis component.

Signal management is handled by a sophisticated hybrid circuit using a double-triode 6H30 tube followed by two buffer stages — the first a tube buffer built around a second 6H30 double triode, and the second a MOSFET tracker chosen specifically for its maximum linearity. This hybrid tube/solid-state topology allows the Synapse to combine the harmonic richness of triode circuitry with the precision and stability of a well-executed MOSFET buffer stage.

Volume control is managed by two independent regulators per channel, operating across 168 steps of 0.5dB each for exceptionally fine, transparent level adjustment — a true balanced design rather than a single shared control. The Synapse also stores volume levels independently for each input, automatically recalling the correct level when switching sources, and only engages the inputs actually in use to minimize noise and interference. A three-step gain setting (0dB, +6dB, or +12dB) allows the preamplifier to be matched precisely to a wide range of source and power amplifier combinations, while a detailed fluorescent front-panel display shows selected input, attenuation level, channel balance, input names, and gain settings at a glance.

As with every Pathos product, the Synapse is designed and hand-built in Vicenza, Italy, reflecting the company’s commitment to complete control over design and manufacturing at every stage.