Community : Document List - Variax Guitars / Bass / Workbench

Variax Workbench FAQs and v1.58 Release Notes

support@line6.com — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:23:56 GMT

Q: What is the Variax Workbench software?

A: Variax Workbench software is an Editor/Librarian for the Variax 300/500/600/700 Electric guitars, as well as the Variax 700 Acoustic guitar. For more information on the program's features, see the following link:

Workbench Software

Q: Can I use the Variax Workbench software to edit my Variax 300 acoustic or Variax 700/705 Bass instrument?

A: No, the Variax 300 acoustic guitars do not have a Variax Digital Interface (VDI) jack, and the Variax 700/705 Bass instruments are not supported for Variax Workbench.

Q: What Line 6 interface will I need to connect my compatable Variax instrument to my computer to use Variax Workbench?

A: You will need a PODxt Live, POD X3 Live/Pro, Vetta I (equipped with the VDI interface), Vetta II, or Workbench interface to connect your compatible Variax instrument to your computer.

Q: Do I need to use the XPS box to power my guitar when using the Workbench interface or does the Workbench interface power my Variax?
A: The Variax still requires power from the XPS footswitch when using the Workbench interface to connect to your computer. However, you will not need the XPS box if you are using a PODxt Live, X3 series, or Vetta series unit to interface with your computer.

Q: I am experiencing MIDI timeouts when I try to connect to Workbench. How can I resolve this?

1) Reinstall the latest Line 6 Monkey, device drivers, and Workbench program from the Line 6 website. See the following links for more information:

Line 6 Monkey Installation and F.A.Q.

Installing Drivers For Your Line 6 Device

Line 6 software

2) Remove all non-essential USB devices from your computer, and connect your Line 6 interface device directly to the back of the computer. If you are using a laptop, try multiple USB ports to see if a different port has a better USB connection.

3) Try a different Variax and USB cable, as well as a different Line 6 device to see if there is a hardware problem with the amplifier.

Q: Why can't I hear audio though my computer while I have my Variax plugged in through the Workbench device?

A: The Workbench USB device is not an audio interface, but merely a USB interface to allow your Variax to talk to your computer. In order to hear your Variax, you will need to have it connected to an amp or other monitoring system.

Q: With the Workbench package, will I be able to download new sounds into my Variax guitar? For instance, can I get the nylon string sound from your Variax acoustic into my Variax 300/500/700?

A: The Workbench software only allows you to edit what is already in the guitar, thereby creating custom guitars internally. You will not be able to use it install new sounds into your Variax.

Q: What is the maximum I can pitch shift the sympathetic (12 string) strings in Workbench?

A: On the 12 string models, you can pitch shift the sympathetic strings by one octave in either direction. Please note- when using the 'detune' option for the sympathetic strings, if you raise the tuning by the full octave you cannot detune the strings any higher than a full octave.

Q: Will the Variax Workbench graphics change with left-handed Variax?

A: The strings appear on-screen the same as for a right handed guitar, the graphics will not be reversed. In other words, the high E string on the physical guitar will correspond to the high E string on-screen.

Q: Does the Workbench package come with the Digital Variax cable included, or would I have to purchase that separately?

A: The Workbench package comes with a 10 foot Digital Variax cable included. This cable is not designed for live use as the longer Variax digital cable is, since it only has the reinforced, hooded connection on one end, rather than both. If you need the longer 25 foot version, you would need to purchase that separately either through our online store or through any Line 6 dealer.

Q: I've changed one of my models to an alternate tuning and when I switch away from it and back, I get the old model for a few seconds before my new one kicks in. What's going on?

A: Until you save your edited model, it has to load into the edit buffer from the swap buffer when you first access the switch. Since it's not yet stored in the guitar, it can take a moment. Take a sip of coffee, and you're golden.

Q: I have the same model in two different banks. If I try and drag them both to the File Browser it works, but if I try one at a time, it asks me if I want to overwrite the patch?

A: If you drag two models with the same name from the Device Browser to the File Browser at the same time, one of them will get a number added to the end to differentiate it from the other patch (actually this will work with more than two models as well). If you try and drag them over one at a time, Workbench can't tell that they're not the same model (since a drag to the File Browser doesn't carry memory location information along with it), so will assume that you're trying to replace an existing model with an edited version of the same model. The solution? Use unique model names.

Q: I just saved a model that I edited from a bundle (or collection) back to that bundle and I'm still getting prompted to save when I close the editor?

A: If you closed the bundle (or collection), you severed the tie between that bundle and the edited model. Workbench no longer knows what bundle it came from, only that it has an edited model in memory. If you're absolutely positive you saved it already, just click on "Don't Save". If you have any doubt, click on Save, and it will just save it as a single model in your default Workbench directory.

Q: I can't see the bottom of the Editor or Tone Locker windows?

A: Workbench needs a screen resolution of 1024x768. While you can flip between two sizes in the Tone Locker (that's what the little triangle in the lower right-hand corner is for), the Editor Window is a fixed size and will go off the bottom of the screen at lower resolutions. For just a little extra room, you can use the Autohide task bar feature on Windows (right-click in the unused portion of the task bar and select Properties) or hiding the Dock on a Mac OS X.

Q: Can I adjust individual string volumes?

A: Yes. When you open the Editor screen in the Workbench Software, under the "Editor" menu, you'll see a choice for "String Volume Setup" at the bottom of the menu. This brings up a group of 6 sliders to set the balance between strings. Remember that these are global settings (not per patch), so that changing the balance will affect all of your different models. As a side note, it's normal for many guitars to have volumes that differ from string to string. One example of this would be guitars with combination of a fairly small fretboard radius and pickups with non-staggered polepieces. It can also happen with guitars that have peaks in body resonance at or near the fundamental or one of the lower harmonics of a specific note.

Q: What is the "Live" & "Studio" switch in Workbench for when using a Variax Acoustic 700?

A: The live mode removes the room reflections from the guitar output.

Q: I am getting strange text characters in my title?

A: On the Macintosh, Option-1 and Option 2 are keystrokes for special characters. Since this functionality is built into the font designs, we can't turn it off. This will only happen if you have an insert point selected in one of the text fields, though, so you can easily work around it by clicking one of the the body, pickup or tone control select drop-downs (depending on which tab of Workbench you're using) to remove the insert point from the text field.

Drag and drop may be a little bit different than what you're used to, as Java (the programming language in which Workbench is written) uses its own protocols for this. We'll try and spell out the differences here.

1. When in the Device Browser window of the Tone Locker, dragging one model to a different location will swap the two (ex. dragging Spank 1 over Spank 3 will swap their positions on the 5-way switch. Dragging Lester 2 over Special 4 will swap their positions on the Select knob and on the 5 way switch).

2. If you don't drop a model directly on top of another model in the Device Browser, but between two models instead, it will insert itself between the two, and slide everything else down one. when this happens all of the 'slid' models will show as editied (have the yellow exclamation mark next to them). If you really want this arrangement, be sure to performa a Sync and choose the "Write Selected Models..." option or your changes can get lost in the shuffle (sorry, couldn't resist the pun). Note: this only works in a bank. You can't insert a model from a different bank, although you can use the swap feature to move a model from one bank to another.

3. Dragging multiple selections from the Device Browser to a collection or bundle in the File Browser will behave differently depending on how the models were selected. A "shift-click" selection process will drop the models in the order in which they are in Memory. "Ctrl-click" (or "Command-click" on the Mac) to make a multiple discontinuous selection will drop them in the order in which they were selected. For example, if you Ctrl (or Command)-clicked on Spank 1, Spank 3, Lester 4, Reso 3, and then came back and selected Lester 2, they would copy to the collection or bundle in that exact order and not the order in which they appear in the Device Browser.

4. Dropping a model from a bank onto that bank name will place that model at the last (5) switch position and move everything above it up one.

Q: What are all the terms I hear about using Line 6 Workbench?

A: To help you through the navigation of Variax and Workbench, please see the following short glossary.

Bundle: A saved dump of the entire memory contents of a Variax. This includes all models as well as the bank and switch combination at which they're stored.

Collection: A saved group of models. Collections can be of any size and contain internal folders for organization. Models stored in Collections do not include switch/bank information.

Q: What's the difference between a bundle and a collection?

A bundle is always a dump of the complete user memory contents of a Variax. This includes which memory (or switch if you want to think of it in more traditional guitar terms) position is used for each model. It will always have exactly 12 banks of 5 models each for a total of 60 models. If you wanted to quickly clone your Variax into a friend's, you'd use the Get Bundle button on your guitar, then hook up your friend' guitar and use the Send Bundle button to create a duplicate of your guitar.

A collection is just exactly that - a collection of models all stored together. It could be a single model (although that would be a little silly), two models, or thousands of models.

Inside a collection, tones can be arranged in folders, so you could put all of your models that use alternate tunings in one folder, or all the different variations on the T-Model body that you created into a single folder. A collection can have as many different folders as you'd like (although you can't nest folders or put a folder inside another folder in a collection). This is a great way to categorize a lot of models if you were, for instance, going to email them to a friend halfway around the world.

Edit Buffer: The area in the Variax memory where a model is loaded when you select it from the guitar or double click on it in either one of the browsers. When you're editing a model in Workbench, you're working on a copy of what's stored in the guitar. This means that if you decide that you don't like what you've done, you can back out gracefully without having overwritten what's stored in the guitar. It also means that if you like what you've done, you need to remember to save it.

Edit Window: Where the magic happens. In this window, you select body, pickup, tone/volume control, and tuning to build an individual Variax model. The Edit window has three tabs (Body, Pickup, Controls), a tuning section at the bottom, and a graphic representation of the guitar where you can do things like grab one of the pickups, slide it around, or rotate it.

File Browser: The left panel of the Tone Locker window. This displays all the models, collections, and bundles that you have stored in your Workbench directory (or whatever directory you've navigated to).

Device Browser: The right panel of the Tone Locker window. This displays the current memory contents of your Variax, including any models you may have edited and not yet saved (See the entry for "Sync")

Model: A particular combination of body, pickups, tone controls, and (possibly) tuning.

Swap Buffer: This loads the model in the guitar that you started from when editing. It's there so you can A/B between what you started with and what you've got. A good way to tell if you're on the right track, or if you need to start over. By the way, when you save a model, it's the currently displayed model is saved, so make sure you're looking at the right one before you hit that Save button.

Sync: This button allows you to make sure that what the Device Browser shows and what's in the memory of your Variax are the same. It also gives you the option to go back to your saved user models..

Tone Locker: This window contains both browsers (File and Device) and is where you go to to file management, model organization, and shuffle models around in memory.

v1.58 Release Notes/Known Issues

What’s New?

This version of Workbench software adds support for POD X3 Pro
This version of Workbench software adds support for 64 bit operating systems.

Known Issues:

* The 64 bit drivers only support the Line 6 Variax PODxt Live, POD X3 Live/Pro, Vetta I (equipped with the VDI interface), and Vetta II. The Workbench Interface hardware is not supported on a 64 bit OS.

• Communication between Variax and Workbench can be sluggish. This can result in slow initial loading of Variax models, pickup dragging, audio for alternate tunings or sluggish graphic draws. These issues are more common on Mac than PC.

• Using the X3 hardware to change models can cause the software and hardware to get out of sync. Please use either Variax Workbench software or the Variax itself for model and parameter selection.

• Disconnecting USB when launching or running Workbench can cause the program to hang, or cause trouble quitting the program. Please quit Workbench before disconnecting the USB cable.

• Hot swapping Variax guitars when Workbench is running may cause loss of communication. Please quit Workbench, then swap guitars, then re-launch the program.

• Operating the X3 Live while launching Workbench (changing presets, turning the Select knob, etc.) can cause a MIDI timeout error. Please allow Workbench to completely launch before editing the POD X3 Live.

Variax Reflash and Software update F.A.Q.

support@line6.com — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:43:20 GMT

Q: How do I perform a Factory Reset ("reflash") on my Variax Electric 300, 500, 600, 700?

A: These instruments can only be returned to factory reset by reinstalling the flash memory. You will need to connect your Variax to the workbench software using your Variax enabled hardware (i.e. Variax Hardware interface, POD XT/X3 Live, POD X3 Pro, or VETTA), then you will have to connect your interface to your computer via USB. Once the guitar and interface are connected to the computer, you will need to run Line 6 Monkey. See the following link for more information on connecting your device to your computer and installing Line 6 Monkey:

Line 6 Monkey Installation and F.A.Q.USB Connectivity with Line 6 Devices

Once you have Monkey installed and your computer is recognizing the connection, see the screen shots for the reflash procedure:

1) Once you run Line 6 Monkey, Monkey may ask you to register. If you do not wish to register (or have already registered) select "remind me later".

2) If you want to reinstall the factory presets (or update the firmware), select "Flash Memory" the select "Reinstall Latest"

3) Select "OK" to agree to the software license

4) Select "yes" or "no" If you want to keep the patches on the instrument

5) Select "Yes" to continue with the update. Do not disconnect the variax during the update.

6) Line 6 Monkey will reinitialize the device and update the flash memory. You can watch the progress on the blue bar on the right side of Monkey.

7) Once the update is complete you will need to select "OK" to continue.

Variax Bass 700/705 Reflash

Factory defaults must be restored one at a time. Select the Model you wish to normalize, the place the blend and two tone controls in the detent (center) position. Now press the Model select pot down until the indicator light stops flashing. The Model should now be restored to factory settings. Use this procedure for any model you want to restore to the factory setting. The Variax bass series can also be "reflashed" using the procedure for the Variax electric guitars described above.

Variax XPS & V.D.I. Cable F.A.Q.s

support@line6.com — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:43:44 GMT

Q: What is the XPS Unit?

A: The XPS unit is the power supply that powers the Variax instrument via 1/4" TRS cable. The Line 6 XPS box must be powered by a Line 6 PX-2 power supply for correct operation.

There are three variations of the XPS:

XPS-AB: This units acts as both a Variax power supply and has an A/B footswitch to send the guitar output to either a 1/4" or XLR output. Use a standard XLR (microphone) cable to connect the XPS-AB’s XLR output to feed any balanced input. Use a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve/Stereo) cable to connect your Variax to the INPUT jack of the XPS-AB, a standard mono instrument cable to connect the 1/4" output of the XPS to any standard amp rig.

XPS-Mini: This unit ships with the Variax 300 series, and has an 1/4" input and output.

XPS-DI: This unit shipped with the Variax Bass Instruments and had an line/mic level switch, as well as an XLR ground lift option. The XPS-DI uses a standard XLR (microphone) cable to connect the XPS-DI output to feed any balanced input. Use a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve/Stereo) cable to connect your Variax to the INPUT jack of the XPS-DI, and a standard mono instrument cable to connect the 1/4" output of the XPS-DI to any standard amp rig. Note: This unit is no longer available as the Variax bass has been discontinued.

Usage F.A.Q.s

Q: Can I use the XPS-AB as a replacement for my XPS-DI?

A: Yes, the XPS-AB is the direct replacement for the XPS-DI.

Q: Can I use the XPS-mini if I do not have access to the XPS-AB box?

A: Yes, the XPS-Mini can be used in place of the XPS-AB box. Be aware that the XPS-mini is the only supported power supply for the Variax 300 series instrument, due to a slight increase in the power requirements for the 300 series.

Q: Will the XPS-DI recharge batteries in Variax Instruments?

A: No.

Q: What type of cable do I need to use to connect the XPS unit to my Variax Instrument?

A: You will need to use the supplied 1/4" TRS cable (or equivalent) to connect your XPS box to your Variax instrument to deliver power. Any mono 1/4" cable will work if you are using the internal batteries for power, but the power will be drawn from the batteries rather than from the cable.

Q: Can I use the XLR and 1/4" outputs simultaneously?

A: No the XLR and 1/4" outputs can only be used separately.

Q: Does the Footswitch provide phantom power to another device?

A: No, the A/B footswitch for your Variax will not provide phantom power.

Q: Can I plug my regular electric instrument into the XPS box?

A: Yes, you can plug your regular electric instrument into the XPS box without damaging your guitar.

Q: What is the length of the Variax digital cable?

A: The Variax digital cable is 25 feet long.

Troubleshooting F.A.Q.s

Q: There is no audio signal and I am only seeing a "red" power light on the XPS A/B (DI) when connected to the Variax guitar using a TRS cable?

A: If the XPS-AB/DI has the proper power connected (and is connected to the Variax) and is showing a "red" power light, this means that the XPS is not recognizing the Variax and not sending power. If a different TRS 1/4" cable does not resolve the problem, try a different XPS box to see if there is a problem with the XPS box. If a different 1/4" cable and XPS box does not solve the problem, the Variax may have an internal failure that will need to be resolved by an authorized service center.

Q: I am getting a "popping" sound when changing between the XLR and 1/4" outputs when connecting to a PA system?

A: This situation can happen when the mixer has phantom power applied to the channel that the XPS input. One solution is to turn off the phantom power on that channel, another solution is to put another DI between the XPS and sound board. Some end users with switch to using the different (compatible) Line 6 device.

Q: My XPS Box is damaged/lost. How can I get a replacement?

A: THe XPS box can be special ordered from your favorite Line 6 dealer:

Line 6 Dealer Locator

Variax Control Through a PODxt Live

support@line6.com — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 15:28:46 GMT

1. Plug the Variax into the PODxt Live Variax input

2. Press OUTPUT MODE (18) and scroll SELECT (10) knob until you see MIDI/VARIAX. Use the fourth soft key (17d) under VARIAX to activate input

3. Press EDIT (16). Scroll the SELECT knob right to the very last page.

4. Change Variax models by highlighting MODEL with softkey 17a and use the tweak knob (12.

5. Parameters are saved per patch and settings are reinforced when the patch is loaded.

NOTE about Alternate Tunings: Alternate tunings are part of your Variax customization in Workbench and called up within a PODxt Live patch with the customized guitar model.

To select or customize tuning in Workbench:

1. Click PRESET (1) at the bottom left hand corner of the editor screen.

2. Select 'Alternate Tuning' preset, load, and close.

3. Click SEND (2) and apply setting to one of your custom guitars. In the illustration I used Custom Lester Model 2*1

4. Go back to the Workbench Main Page and SYNC your Variax with the changed setting’

5. You can now exit Workbench.

On the PODxt Live:

Select the model you wish to load & save patch to desired location.

Variax: Tuning Tips

support@line6.com — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 17:05:08 GMT

Attached is a Word document containing advice and tips on alternate tunings with your Variax for downloading purposes. They are also included in the body of this FAQ. You can also visit our website and read some helpful articles about alternate tuning tips.

*Four Variax Alternate Tuning Tips*

With the development of Variax Workbench software, you can now tune your Variax electric to any alternate tuning you like. The Variax Acoustic 700 has this feature built into the guitar itself. With the physical Variax tuned to standard pitch, however, the Variax DSP must create the alternate tunings in real time, note by note as you play. This is no easy task, and as with any developing technology, there are limitations. To get the best musical experience from your alt-tuned Variax, please check out the following four Alternate Tuning Tips. They address the most frequently asked questions of Variax owners.

1. Guitar Volume Balance: If you hear the standard tuning of your physical Variax along with the alt-tuning, your ears may be fooled into thinking the alt-tuning is out of tune. This is especially true for Acoustic 700 owners, but the solution is easy. In a studio situation, turn up your headphones; in a live situation, turn up the volume of your alt-tuned guitar amp or stage monitor so that it drowns out the physical guitar sound. When you adjust your guitar volume balance so that all you hear is the alt-tuned guitar, your alt-tuning will sound the way you expect it to.

2. Odd-Sounding Notes: If you use pull-offs, especially on an open G string that's tuned down a full step or more, or if you use Capo mode and tune several frets up or down and play harmonics or hammer-ons, you may sometimes hear odd-sounding notes. The general cure for this is to adjust your playing technique so that you play very cleanly when doing pull-offs, play with a lighter touch on extremely alt-tuned notes and harmonics, fret your notes accurately, and avoid any problem zones that may produce odd sounds. It’s not difficult to get clean-sounding alt-tuning tracks. It just takes a little time to adapt to the particular alt-tuning you're using, then avoid any obvious problem spots you may encounter by adjusting your playing technique and choice of notes.

3. Ringing Overtones: When you play certain notes and you don’t mute your other strings, occasionally a note you're playing may cause a harmonic to resonate from a non-muted string. This can be a good thing, but sometimes it may result in an odd sound as in #2 above. The solution is to mute the strings you aren't using, especially when playing single notes. This way the DSP won't be 'confused' by unwanted notes resonating against the intended note.

4. Amp Sounds: For Variax Acoustic Models, use an Amp Bypass setting or go direct whenever possible. Acoustics, Resos, Sitar, etc. don't like preamp gain, so cleaner is better in order to bring out the full range of these Models. If you use a Vetta II or PODxt Live, it’s a good idea to set up an Amp Preset for each of your favorite alt-tuned Variax Models, and save the Variax Model with your Amp Preset.

If you are experiencing an output latency when in an Alternate Tuning this is a known issue. This is a result of the time it takes for the DSP in the Variax to detect the pitch, change it to a different pitch, and then output the note. This may require you to change your playing style slightly in order to compensate for the latency.

Variax: General FAQs

support@line6.com — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 10:47:45 GMT

Q: Is the Variax a MIDI guitar?

A: No, the Variax is a real guitar, and the guitar does not send MIDI signals. All of the sounds available in the Variax start with the actual string vibrations of the Variax itself. Our proprietary modeling process shapes the raw string signal to replicate the sounds of the modeled instruments.

Q: What type of cable can I use with the Variax?

A: In order to use the supplied XPS-DI direct box/power supply to deliver power to the Variax, you will need to use the supplied 1/4-inch TRS cable or equivalent. If you use the internal batteries as your power supply, any mono 1/4-inch cable will work.

Q: How do I know when it is time to change the batteries?

A: When the batteries have lost their charge the indicator light will continuously flash, and the audio may become distorted or intermittent.

Q: Can I use rechargeable batteries in my Variax?

A: Yes, although rechargeable NiCad batteries will not last as long as alkalines, as they deliver substantially less current. Rechargeable alkaline batteries would be a longer lasting choice.

Q: How long will batteries last?

A: The average life of a set of 6 alkaline AA batteries should be approximately 12-14 hours. So-called 'Heavy Duty' (carbon) batteries will usually last less time. The 9-volt battery should only be used as an emergency power supply and will last approximately 1-2 hours. To help insure the longest possible battery life, be sure to unplug the 1/4 inch jack when not in use.

Q: How is the Variax different from the Roland VG-8 or VG-88?

A: The Variax is self-contained; all of the sounds come from inside the guitar itself. The models were specifically developed for the body resonance and transducer of the Variax for the highest possible accuracy of modeling. The VG-8/88 is an external processor that is connected to a guitar via a separate hex pickup. With the VG system, variations in tone may occur due to the guitar the pickup is attached to, and the specific placement of the pickup. The VG-8 includes basic amp modeling and effects in addition to its guitar modeling functions. With the Variax, we concentrate on the guitar characteristics only and can deliver a much higher degree of accuracy and detail.

Q: Where is the Variax made?

A: The Variax was designed entirely by Line 6, by experienced luthiers, engineers, and industrial designers. The Variax was originally manufactured in Korea but now is manufactured in Indonesia and China and assembled in the U.S. Our Variax guitars are made world-class facilities with the latest computer-controlled manufacturing equipment. The manufacturer prefers to remain nameless because of its relationships with other guitar companies, but they are building the guitars to Line 6's specifications.

Q: Can the Variax be run through any manufacturers' effects devices?

A: Yes, the Variax will work with any manufacturers' effect devices. Batteries in the Guitar will allow you to connect to Line6 and third party effects processors and wireless systems.

Q: Can the Variax be used with a wireless system? My wireless transmitter does not have a TRS plug, will it still work?

A: As long as you are powering the Variax with batteries, you can use a wireless like you would on a regular guitar. The TRS cable is only needed when you are using the power supply.

Q: Does the Variax work with only Line 6 amps?

A: The Variax works with any guitar amp from any manufacturer, but Line 6 amplifiers may have special proprietary connections for the Variax instrument.

Q: Will the Ebow work on the Line 6 Variax?

A: Yes, it will work fine but remember that it won't get loud over the magentic pickup because it is a piezo pickup.

Q: Can I feed two amps from the jack of my Variax guitar using batteries and a y-splitter cable?

A: No, the Variax jack is not a "real" stereo jack. The Variax jack does use a TRS plug, but the "sleeve" portion of it is used to transmit power rather than audio. The TRS cable is not required if you are using batteries.

Q: Is there a Variax Electric reference sheet available?

A: Yes there is, although not an official Line 6 document. Your collegue Line 6 enthusiasts have created several documents that will give you an overview of the models inside your Variax. You can download and print them for your own use. Follow the link to download it from www.vettaville.nl and scroll down the page for the different documents: http://www.vettaville.nl/vvdocumentsvariax.htm

Q: Is it possible to produce feedback through an amp with the Variax?

A: Yes. Since the sound from the Variax starts from the strings, blasting a lot of energy into the strings by standing in front of a loud amp will produce feedback. And since the Variax uses a piezo bridge instead of conventional magnetic pickups, you won't get microphonic squeals.

Variax: Electric Guitar Specifications

support@line6.com — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 10:47:45 GMT

Q: What is “radius” on a neck?

A: Radius refers to the amount of curve on the fretboard. A smaller number (i.e. 9.5”) has a more pronounced curve than a larger number (i.e. 12”). Players who emphasize chording may prefer more round necks, while players who do a lot of bending may prefer flatter necks.

Q: What is the difference between maple (i.e. Variax 600) and rosewood (i.e. Variax 300) fretboards?

A: Maple tends to be a bit brighter in tone, while rosewood tends to have a bit more sustain. Maple fretboards have some type of lacquer finish, as rosewood is traditionally unfinished.

Q: What is “neck scale?”

A: Neck scale is the distance from the bridge to the nut. All Variax electric guitars have a scale of 25.5”

Q: What fretwire is used on the Variax Electric guitars?

A: The Closest fretwire in common use is the Dunlop 6130 wire, but it is not exactly the same wire.

Q: What size allen wrenches are used on the Variax electric guitars?

Tremolo arm and saddle height adjustment: 1.5mm

Bridge height: 2.5 mm

Truss Rod: 4mm

Q: What kind of finish is used on the Variax?

A: All Variax instruments use a polyester (yes, polyester) finish.

Q: What type of glue is used in the hardware?

A: Hide (i.e. horse) glue

Q: What gauge D'Addario strings are on the Variax electric guitars?

E: 10 (High)

B: 13

G: 17

D: 26

A: 36

E: 46 (low)

Variax Bass 700/705

B .130 (five-string model only)

E .100

A .080

D .065

G .045

Q: What is the hole diameter for the tuning gears?

A: The Variax guitars accept the standard 10mm (13/32nd") tuning gear.

Q: What happens if I use different brand or gauge strings on my variax bass or guitar?

A: The results will be the same as changing string type or gauge on an analog bass or guitar. The Variax guitars are no different than most other guitars regarding setup and maintenance; the may need to be set up for different gauges play correctly, or seasonally to counteract climate changes. The Variax will accept any common string gauge for that instrument type.

Q: Do the Variax guitars have a low or high output impedance?

A: All Variax guitars are low impedance, and should be treated like they are active instruments.

Q: What are the default custom positions?

Contents of Custom 1 Knob Positions: Knob Position / Pickup Selector Position & Original Model Location

Custom 1/1 Acoustic/5

Custom 1/2 Reso/4

Custom 1/3 Acoustic/4

Custom 1/4 Reso/2

Custom 1/5 Reso/1

Custom 2 Positions feature hybrid models and alternate tunings created from Variax Workbench,Knob Position / Pickup Selector Position & Custom Tuning

Custom 2/1 Spank with R-BillyTron Bridge Drop D

Custom 2/2 R-Billy Sparkletop with R-billy D'almond Bridge & Middle Open A

Custom 2/3 T-Modle F-Hole with Lester/Bridge Open D

Custom 2/4 Special Bird with Chime Toaster/Middle Open C

Custom 2/5 Tricone Reso Open G

Variax Troublshooting Tips

support@line6.com — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 10:47:45 GMT

Q: How do I perform a Factory Reset ("reflash") on my Variax 300/500/600/700/705?

A: See the following link for the reflash procedure:

Variax Reflash and Software update F.A.Q.

Q: The strings on my Variax Steel string are breaking consistently at the saddle piece. How can this be resolved?

A: There may be a "burr in the saddle", meaning that there is an edge cutting into the string and causing it to break. Depending on where the string is breaking you may need to replace the piezo, the saddle piece, or both pieces. Please contact an authorized Service Center for more information.

Q: I am getting a high-pitched “squeal” when I have both the ¼” TRS cable and the Variax cable plugged into my PODxt/X3 or Vetta. How do I eliminate this?

A: The high-pitched squeal is indicative of an overload of the power input buffers, as the unit is receiving power from both the TRS and the Variax Digital Cable. You will need to unplug one of the cables to remove the high-pitch noise.

Q: What happens if I leave my Variax plugged into an amp while using batteries (not using the power supply)?

A: If you leave your Variax plugged into your amp and are not using the power supply you will drain your batteries. If you remember to turn the volume knob on your Variax all the way down, the guitar will go into a low power 'standby' mode, but the batteries will still be draining (although at a substantially slower rate). Remember to unplug your Variax if you have finished a soundcheck and are heading off to dinner somewhere before your gig.

Q: When I first plug it in the sound goes on and off like the power is being turned off and on and I hear a constant click...click...click...through the amp?

A: The problem sounds like it's a battery issue. If the battery's power drops below a current point, even though the batteries may seem good, the guitar will cut in and out. Even if you connect the power A/B box the guitar will still cut in and out. When this occurs, you must disconnect or change the batteries.

Q: Where can I get a replacement neck and/or body for my Variax guitar?

A: You can order your Variax replacement neck or body from Warmouth Instruments.

Q: Can the Model Select knob on the Variax 300/600 be calibrated?

A: No, the Model Select knob on the Variax 300/600 cannot be calibrated. If the model knob is "out of sync", try reflashing your instrument. If you are still having problems with the model select knob not selecting the correct model, you will need to have the unit serviced at your local Line 6 service center.

Q: How do I calibrate the Model Select knob on the Variax 500/700?

1. Unplug RJ45 cable from guitar.

2. Turn off Power (disconnect ¼" TRS cable from guitar).

3. Turn the volume up.

4. Pull model selector to "up" position (set to Custom 1).

5. Set pickup selector to 4th (neck-middle) position.

6. Set tone knob to middle position.

7. Turn on power (connect ¼" TRS cable to guitar).

ONCE INITIALIZED (INDICATED BY AN AUDIBLE BEEP SEQUENCE), YOU WILL HAVE APPROX. 13 SECONDS TO COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE:

8. Turn tone control to min and then max.

9. You will now hear a beep sequence.

10. Turn model selector from "Custom 1" through all positions up to "Custom 2" this should be timed to approximately 1 second per physical step. (Counting: "one, one thousand", making sure to turn the pot on the one).

11. You will hear a low-high-low beep when completed.

12. Model selector will now be calibrated.

If you hear the low-high-low beep prior to completing the entire rotation of the model select knob, unplug the ¼" TRS cable from guitar and start over again until the timing is correct.

Q: How do I calibrate the strings on a Variax Bass 700/705?

A: To Activate String Calibration Mode:

1.Press down and hold the VOLUME knob, then power up the bass as follows:
a.plug in a TRS cable connected to a powered XPS power supply, or
b.plug in a VDI cable which is connected to a powered Bass PODxt Live.
2.Immediately release the VOLUME knob (the LED on the bass will appear to be orange or red - not green - if the LED is green, try again).

In String Calibration Mode, all modeling is bypassed and the level of each string can be adjusted individually. To confirm you're in String Calibration Mode, listen to several Models, including a Synth Model; they should all sound the same: direct piezo.

Important Note: As per the instructions below, the BLEND knob is used to adjust the volume of each string. The BLEND knob has a center detent, and that detent equals the Factory level volume for each selected string. You should adjust string levels from the center detent as a reference. Boosting levels too much may result in distortion, which is not good. For best results, listen to all strings and determine which ones may be too loud or too soft, then adjust accordingly, leaving the other strings at their detent levels.

To Calibrate Individual Strings: (steps 5a & 5b for 5-string only)

*After successfully powering up in String Calibration Mode, monitor the Variax Bass in the usual way, with the Volume knob at max, plugged into a bass amp, PODxt Live, etc.

1a.Rotate MODEL SELECT knob to the 1st Model, VinJ, to select the 1st string (G).
1b.Turn BLEND knob up or down to balance the G string level with the other strings.

2a.Rotate MODEL SELECT knob to the 2nd Model, ModJ, to select the 2nd string (D).
2b.Turn BLEND knob up or down to balance the D string level with the other strings.

3a.Rotate MODEL SELECT knob to the 3rd Model, PreBass, to select the 3rd string (A).
3b.Turn BLEND knob up or down to balance the A string level with the other strings.

4a.Rotate MODEL SELECT knob to the 4th Model, Manta, to select the 4th string (E).
4b.Turn BLEND knob up or down to balance the E string level with the other strings.

5a.Rotate MODEL SELECT knob to the 5th Model, Clang, to select the 5th string (B).
5b.Turn BLEND knob up or down to balance the B string level with the other strings.

When all strings sound in balance, press down on the MODEL SELECT knob to exit String Calibration Mode. The LED will turn green and your level changes will be saved.

* Rotate the MODEL SELECT knob to load a Model and return to normal operation

Variax Acoustic Instrument FAQs

support@line6.com — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 10:47:45 GMT

Q: How do I perform a Factory Reset on my Variax Acoustic?

Variax Acoustic 700 Hard reset: See the following link:

Variax Reflash and Software update F.A.Q.

Variax Acoustic 700 - Soft Reset

Start with unit off (TRS cable and/or Variax Digital cable unplugged from guitar). Rotate the model selector to the SITAR position.Press and hold model selector (as in Save routine) while inserting TRS cable or Variax Digital cable to power up the unit and perform reset.

Variax Acoustic 300 (Steel String and Nylon)

These instruments do not have a reset function. The presets are simply a variety of settings that the user can overwrite. In other words, the user cannot lose anything, except for the original settings that are provided as examples/starting points.

Q: What is “neck scale?”

A: Neck scale is the distance from the bridge to the nut. All Variax electric guitars have a scale of 25.5”

Q: How can I adjust the intonation on my Variax acoustic?

A: There is no way to easily adjust the intonation on the Variax acoustic guitar. Different string gauges can effect intonation, so try using a different string gauge if you are having intonation issues.

Q: How can I raise the action on my Variax 300 acoustic (nylon or steel) guitar a the bridge?

A: If you need to raise the action on your Variax acoustic 300, you will want to shim the bridge underneath the single piezo strip. If you do not feel confident doing this procedure yourself, please have an authorized Line 6 Service Center perform the procedure.

Q: What are the default alternate tunings on the Variax Acoustic 700?

A: The PDF file attached to this answer provides a nice little grid of all the default tuning modes for the standard Variax Acoustic 700 models. If you don't have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your system, you can get it from the Adobe website by clicking on the "Get Adobe Reader" link in the lower right hand corner of the webpage.

Q: Can I load Electric tones on my Variax Acoustic?

A: No. Because of differences between the architecture of the Variax Electric and Variax Acoustic guitars this is not possible. Please be aware that there are acoustic guitar tones available on the Variax electric models if you want to have acoustic and electric sounds on a single guitar.

Q: What size allen wrenches are used on the Variax acoustic guitars?

saddle height adjustment: 1.5mm

Truss Rod: 4mm

Q: What gauge of Phosphorus Bronze D'Addario strings are on the Variax Steel String Acoustic guitars?

E:12 (high)

B:16

G:24

D:32

A:42

E:52 (low)

Q: What strings come with the Variax 300 Nylon acoustic?

A: D'Addario ProArte Hard Tension strings

Q: What is the hole diameter for the tuning gears?

A: The Variax guitars accept the standard 10mm (13/32nd") tuning gear.

Q: What happens if I use different brand or gauge strings on my variax bass or guitar?

Q: Can I put nylon strings on a steel string instrument (and vice-versa)?

A: You will have numerous mechanical issues if you restring a guitar with meant for one style of guitar with the other. Nylon strings tend to be thicker so they may not thread through the nut and/or tuning gear very easily. Nylon string will have at least 30 lbs less tension on the neck, so the truss rod may not be able correct for the correct tension, and may not be able to return to correct tension if/when the guitar is restrung with steel strings. Steel string installed on a nylon string guitar can crack the body/neck as it was never meant to take the tension increase of steel strings.

Q: Where can I get replacement bridge pins for my Variax acoustic guitar?

A: The bridge pins used on the Variax acoustic guitars are the same as any other bridge pin available from your local Line 6 dealer.

Q: Do the Variax guitars have a low or high output impedance?

A: All Variax guitars are low impedance, and should be treated like they are active instruments.

Q: What kind of finish is used on the Variax?

A: All Variax instruments use a polyester (yes, polyester) finish.

Q: What type of glue is used in the hardware?

A: Hide (i.e. horse) glue