The Line 6 Helix Guitar Effects Processor And Amp Modeller Pedal is a tour-grade multi effect pedal that sounds and feels authentic taking user experience to a new level and can act as the nerve centre for your entire guitar rig.
The HX modelling engine uses dual-DSP processing to deliver attributes and nuances that weren’t previously attainable from modelling, giving you classic bloom and gooey compression on some amp models, and a powerful gut punch on others. With touch-sensitive footswitches, a large colour LCD and hands-free editing, Helix represents a new approach to user interface design. It also happens to be the most comprehensive master controller for guitar systems ever built.
People complain about modellers not sounding like tube amps and analogue effects... those days are over. While I don't use this so much for the modelling features I have used them for a number of recordings and I would defy anyone to notice the difference. The amp, cab and mic options are endless and as everything on the Helix is recreated from an analogue component level they sound just like the "real" thing. Personally I use this more as a pedalboard into an amp and it has allowed me to create infinite possibilities and useful options for any gig. I got tired of velcro and cables and power supplies for pedalboards. This saves all that and gives you endless options. Plus I can plug my headphones in and play when my kids are asleep or I'm in a hotel room. Other features I like are the screen/user interface, snapshots, scribble strips, Helix editor, USB recording to PC/Mac/iPad, custom IRs, The best bit is that it's only getting better and better. Line6 add new effects and amps all the time. It's a guitarists dream!
I have been using for the last couple of weeks and I am truly amazed by how both "simplicity of usage" and "complexitiy of the functionalites" are optimised in this product. Also a big thanks to the Music Store folks, they processed the order very quickly and responded to my questions on whereabouts of the package with patience :)
Found the best price at music Sore with very fast delivery. This Guitar processor is in my opinion the best on the Market at the moment. Line 6 are constantly working and any update or new modeling amps are offered for free , it's clear they are wanting to keep the customer happy . Studio or live work this is the tool for the job in my opinion. Overall very happy.
I was hoping that the latest firmware 3.50 would result in a better sounding Helix. But I still can't identify with the amp, distortion and cabinet sounds.
I am used to a DVMark Raw Dawg EG with a Boss MS-3. With IK Multimedia Tonex I was able to make a super good profile of the DVMark that sounds almost identical.
Now I thought I could still use the Helix with Tonex via the USB ins and outs. That works in principle, but then the sterile distortion effects throw a spanner in the works. As analogous as the distortions on the Boss MS-3 sound, as sterile and digital as the distortions sound on the Helix. So the Helix didn't appeal to me there. The latter is a pity because the rest of the functionalities and effects work very handy. Tastes differ, but the Helix will not work for me and is therefore registered for return.
The Line 6 Helix is a great addition to my music gear and the order process/dispatch time from DV247 was excellent.
The Helix will enable me to advance my portfolio for session work as well as improve my sound in my current band.