Community : Popular Threads - Variax Guitars / Bass / Workbench

Locking tuners for Variax 700 electric?

support@line6.com — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 22:19:27 GMT

Hi everybody!

I'm very happy with my new Variax 700. Great guitar, beautifully crafted, great set up, right out of the box!

The Gotoh tuners are ok really, but however I do have little tuning problems when using the tremolo a bit more violent.

I wondered if it would make a difference to replace the stock tuners with locking tuners from, for instance, Schaller.

And what would be the best fitting model/brand, in regards to the screwholes and such.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Rohaya

variax out of tune, intonation didn't help

support@line6.com — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:33:16 GMT

Hello! I've had my variax 500 electric guitar a couple of years now and it has worked flawlessly until now. When I play barre chords with the lowest keynote on the a-string (for example a high E) the b-string and the g-string doesn't "agree" and i get that tremolo effect which occures when the guitar isn't in tune. However the guitar is perfectly tuned cause when checking the strings separately on those frets that are problematic they're in tune. And I tested to record when first playing on the b-string and then I dubbed that with playing on the g-string and it sounds perfect. It's only when they're played together at the same time it sounds out of tune. If i tune down the b-string just a little it dissapears, but then all other chords gets out of tune. As i've just had it in for intonation I know that that isn't the problem, and i've checked that all frets are in tune. My guess is that something is wrong with the technical part of the guitar, maybe the piezo mics are damaged or something in the "computer" of the guitar. I don't know what to do, I guess I need to get service, but when searching for a service center in sweden i get no results, why is that?

Variax Ethernet Connection

support@line6.com — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:36:17 GMT

I have a problem with the connector in the guitar. The plastic that holds the jack to the body of the guitar cracked and broke, so the jack floats inside. Because of this, I think, everyonce in a while the guitar will cut out and will not be seen by the podxt. I unscrewed the connector on the guitar and tapped the jack where it was broke to help make it more solid. It worked great for a day and then it started cutting out again. Is there any way I can get hold of the jack and the little circuit board that it connects to? It's out of waranty and I'm technically inclined enough to replace these parts. Thanks

Firmware Corrupted on Variax500?

support@line6.com — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:52:54 GMT

I tried to install Workbench with my PODXT Live and Variax 500 connected. The installation failed and I then noticed that my XTLive had frozen. Unplugging the variax un-freezes the POD. Line Monkey also no longer sees the variax.

I posted a thread (11-04-2009) and tried all the advice with no success. As the axe was only a few weeks old and thus under guarentee I returned it to the Dealer for repair.

After three months at a 'Jack of all trades' repair facility ( No disrespect intended) that does Line6 repairs for the agent and dealer, I asked to have my ghit returned so that I can have a look at it myself (Retired Electronic Engineer). He told me that there were 4 more Variaxes that had been in for repairs for like forever.

He had them all recalled and I managed to repair them all in one day. 3 were as a result of simple bad connections, 1 had a short circuiting track on the rj-45 output assembly but sadly I could not repair my 500. Through a process of illimination with parts from another 500 I determined that the fault is definitely on the mainboard.

I have now found another thread from another person who encountered a similar problem after a failed upgrade using a PODXT Live and it turned out that the Variax fimware had been corrupted during said failed upgrade.

"This sounds a lot like what happened to me...ie I used the POD XT Live to update my Variax 500...it failed. My Variax couldn't be 'seen' after that. Line 6 UK now want at least £60 to reflash the little AM29LV200B IC on the mainboard"

As you must have gathered, No we don't have a bona fida, dedicated Line6 Service Centre in South Africa. Any Suggestions?

Thanx

Carlo

Message was edited by: carlo_leone

Variax 700 will not stay in tune?

support@line6.com — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:18:59 GMT

Hi all,

I have a variax 700, I usually use slinky 9 / 42 strings and have my tremolo setup floating. I'm a college lecturer / recording engineer who has also set up guitars for over 20 years. The variax is a superb guitar in every way, apart from the most basic aspect........it will not stay in tune. I hope the guys at line 6 read this because it is staggering that such an amazing instrument has such a massive flaw. (the size of this massive flaw cannot be exagerated. A guitar which will not stay in tune is useless).

The problem only exists if the tremolo is set to float (the whole point of a great tremolo like the LR Baggs unit....and the whole point of buying a variax 700 as opposed to the much cheaper 300). After using the tremolo, the tuning will be raised or lowered.....it will not come back to the correct pitch....ever. If you dive bomb or even just dip the pitch of a note on any string.....on releasing the tremolo bar the guitar will be flat by up to -12 cents. If you pull back on the tremolo bar to raise a note and then release the bar, the tuning will be up to 12 cents sharp. An interesting point is if you tune the guitar and play without tremolo......perfect tuning. This means the problem is not the machine heads.

Many people on the forums have suggested to each other the following, but I think I have found the reason....and nobody is going to like the answer.

Lube the nut - This in reality is not a solution. A well crafted nut will not need lube. The 'bone' nut on the variax 700 is not bone...a synthetic bone substitute maybe, but not bone. I've seen other people describe it as chewing gum it is so soft.

File / reduce the depth of the nut - At 5 mm the string contact with the nut is too great. Using a file to reduce this contact area down to 2.5mm is a good idea.

Install a new nut - a Gibson type drop in from graphtech or an earvana nut (£35 option).

Install a set of locking machine heads - Reducing the winds on the tuning post to a half turn improves tuning stability (£60+ option).

Increase string tension - changing to a heavier set of strings eg from a set of 9s to 10s (£5 option).

Increase spring tension - making sure you use all 3 springs on the rear of the tremolo.

Cut the 'condoms' off the springs - Variax is the first guitar i have ever seen with these fitted to the springs. I would love to know why they are fitted (Health & safety?) as you cannot operate the tremolo at all with them on.

The first thing I had to do setup wise was cut the plastic 'condoms' off the springs in the tremolo as they do not allow the tremolo to operate (literally) without a horrible crunching sound and feel. I have shaped the nut.....no difference. Tried heavier strings and resetup the guitar.....no difference. I usually use a set of 9s with 2 springs on the tremolo, so i tried a set of 10s with both 2 springs and then 3 springs on the tremolo.....no diference.

The problem seems to be constant no matter what you do to fix it in the area of machine heads / nut / strings and springs. The problem lies with the electronic cables connecting the tremolo/piezos to the brain unit in the guitar. If you look at the back of the tremolo with the cover removed you will see a thin cable and a ribbon cable attached to the tremolo. These cables go around the tremolo unit and through a hole in the body of the guitar to the brain section PCB.

If you watch the back of the tremolo closely as you operate it through its full range, first one way and then the other, you will notice the unit never returns to it original position due to the resistance of the cables/electronics. The stiff cables are in contact with the tremolo.

This is a serious flaw in the design of the instrument. A smaller light weight / very flexible connection between the tremolo PCB and the Brain PCB, which stays close to the base plate of the tremolo (which moves a short distance) and out of the way of the block/springs (which move a great distance) is needed.

The result of trying to acheive tuning stability with the tremolo floating, would for the average guitarist result in an extra £100 minimum to the price of the instrument, plus around another £100 in repeated setups and fitting of parts. Only to realise it is never going to happen.

This is a major disapointment as I have been sold a product which is superb in one way (sounds) and totally useless in another (staying in tune)....It is not fit for it's purpose!

I would love a reply from line 6 on this as the 700 is a professional instrument at a price of around £1000. I think line 6 know about this problem. None of the videos demonstrating the instrument on the line 6 website have any use of the tremolo unit. It is probably the reason why the guitars come with the tremolo mounted flat against the body when you buy them.

I would also like to know the purpose of the spring condoms?.....was that a bodge to help tuning stability?....in 30 years of playing guitar and 20 years of setting them up professionally I have never....ever seen any other guitar with these things fitted to the strings.

Come on line 6 guys, have the balls to reply to the customers who have commited to buying the flawed product and time/upgrades, searching for a variax 700 that stays in tune.

Andy Smith www.myspace.com/humstrumbangtwang

Variax Workbench fails at startup

support@line6.com — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:18:38 GMT

Variax Workbench v.1.58 fails after start (message: "Could not find Java runtime"). Followed by: "Could not init JINILoader"!

Java 1.6.0_17 is allready installed on my system and works! If I need Java 1.5 (like Workbench tells me during the installation), I dont find it (Please send me a WORKING Link, the link from the installation procedure is dead!)

I hope you can help me - many Thanks!

Which of these 4 luthiers is building the Variax II?

support@line6.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:39:22 GMT

This is a thread that was starting to bear fruit on the old forum, so I'm reposting it here. By "fruit", I mean that we obtained more hints about which luthier it might be, with a strong rumor stating that it would be James Tyler. Here's the original "question":

Like many of you I've been dying for any tidbit of information I can get about the possible next generation Variax. Well, I did a little detective work and thought I would share my "findings".

There was a rumor on Harmony Central a couple months ago about the next generation Variax. It was from someone who claimed to have some inside info, and he said:

"The guitar itself is being designed and built in collaboration with a major LA luthier, and it will be a boutique quality instrument."

So I looked up the "official Line 6 survey" that was sent out last May, and lo and behold, it had a section about boutique manufacturers. Here's the question:

"How likely are you to consider buying an electric guitar from the following boutique guitar makers?

Heritage Guitars - http://www.heritageguitar.com/
Tom Anderson - http://www.andersonguitars.com/
James Tyler - http://www.tylerguitars.com/index2.html
Don Grosch - http://www.groshguitars.com/
Steve Klein - http://www.kleinguitars.com/
James Trussart - http://www.jamestrussart.com/
Patrice Vigier - http://www.vigierguitars.com/
Roger Sadowsky - http://www.sadowsky.com/
Robin Guitars - http://www.robinguitars.com/
John Suhr - http://www.suhrguitars.com/
Warrior Guitars - http://www.warriorinstruments.com/
Tony Zemaitis - http://www.zemaitis.net/ "

I clicked on the links thoughtfully provided by Line 6 to find out which of these are in (or near) L.A. -- and came up with a much shorter list:

Tom Anderson Guitars (Newbury Park, CA)
James Tyler Guitars (Van Nuys, CA)
James Trussart Guitars (Los Angeles, CA)
John Suhr Guitars (Lake Elsinore, CA)

So, to my mind at least, the evidence seems to say that the Variax II is (probably) being designed and built by one of these four luthiers!

Remembering that the Harmony Central writer said it was a "major LA luthier", which of these four would you say fit that category? Certainly Anderson does, but I don't know enough about the others to say . . .

Your comments?

Nhe7 here again. I have been trying all weekend to get the USB variax interface up & running!!!! Auggh!

support@line6.com — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:48:31 GMT

I have a couple items I hope you nice folks can help me with. I am getting very frustrated!!!! I have been trying for days to get my workbench to work with my variax 700 acoustic & the USB interface keeps blinking red on the guitar side. I have tried 2 different computers (neither with 64 bit). I have reloaded all software (starting with just the workbench & finally loading up Guitarport/Rifftracker, Gearbox, & Pod xt [more on pod xt later].....

Here is an observation/question. I have noticed that the Guitarport & the Pod xt both have "ESN" #s while the Variax USB interface lists NONE where a number should be. Does this mean something & what can I do about it. The Monkey lets me choose the interface & I upgraded everything but when I try to click on the Variax USB INterface, it says "no device detected" & then a box comes up next saying "no device configured, we will close variax workbench" or something to that effect.

I was also concerned that I might not have USB #2 but under USB devices there are 2 listings at the bottom for "enhanced" + I know my laptop is new enough to have USB2 (though right now I am trying to use everything on my older desktop that I had when I purchased all of this stuff).

With the laptop, I uninstalled everything & then just installed the monkey & workbench & with no other usb devices plugged in, I went around to all 6 usb ports built in to the laptop (there are 4 on the back & 2 on the side). Is it obvious which ones are enhanced or is it likely that they all are?

More important than anything, I just want to tweak my variax in the workbench program I paid good money for (not to mention the fact that I won 2 Guitarports, a shortboard & Podxt, Rifftracker, gearbox and a Variax 700 Acoustic.

Also, a problem has come up with Podxt. In the Monkey (which allows me to choose between Guitarport, USB interface & Pod xt), when I click on the Pod xt there is a caution sign that an update is available. When I click on this it tells me "Important: Your hardware hardware has not yet been activated to allow all the features you purchased." I am to press activate in the optional add ons tab. Each time I try to do this or update the one caution item (USB Firmware) , it goes through the motions & then says "error" "Warning, the transaction verification failed...If problem persists (which it has) click support button. You will not need to purchase another license key to fix this problem......

Again, this problem is secondary to me & way down on the list from getting the Variax USB interface to stop blinking red on the guitar side & let me use the workbench program. In a nutshell for now, is the lack of an ESN number got anything to do with the problem? Any other suggestions? LINE 6 got any suggestions?

I thank anyone & everyone who has tried & will continue to try to help me. I am sure a sledge-hammer isn't going to fix the USB interface the way I want it to work!!!

love

lee

Variax 300 - distortion / noise / loss of level

support@line6.com — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:29:32 GMT

Hi all,

I've just plugged in my variax 300 after not using it for a couple of months and the signal output seems to have a lot of noise / sitrortion / crackle / loss of level.

I've checked my cables and connections, replaced the batteries etc etc.

Can anyone help?

Thanks,

nph198

Workbench - Pot Resistance - help me learn

support@line6.com — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 04:07:51 GMT

Hi folks,

I've had my Variax for a couple of years now (love it). I've made a few custom models with Workbench, but not really bothered to try adjusting the settings on the controls page where you can set things like:

Volume Knob Pot Resistance

Tone Knob Pot Resistance

Capacitance

(image: http://acapella.harmony-central.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180836&d=1127445477)

I think I've got a reasonable idea about the Volume Taper (and I think I prefer the "Audio" option instead of the "Linear" default), but I'd like to learn more about the others.

Could anyone comment on how they use these settings, including when it is good to change from the defaults, and also if there are any pages on the Internet you know of where I can read some more - that would be great!

Thanks

Variax 700 difficulty in battery mode

support@line6.com — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 17:45:49 GMT

I just purchased a Variax 700. When I try to use the gutar in battery mode with a standard guitar cable, I have difficulty getting the gutar to turn on. If I re-insert the cable in and out I can usually get it to come on without any further problems until I unplug again. I do not have the problem when I use the stereo cable with the power pedal. I am using fresh and new rechaged batteries. Any solutions?

XPS-AB Failure

support@line6.com — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:45:28 GMT

Hi All

The XPS-AB Power Supply for my Variax 700 has just failed (Bought the guitar May time). It cut out whilst playing and made a horrible noise! There now is no power supply light lighting up on the box but the XLR and 1/4" jack lights are working which says to me that there is power coming from the transformer. Have tried unplugging and plugging in transformer plug and the power light pops on for a moment and then cuts out.

I have spoken to retailer how sold me the equipment but they were muttering something about how the distributor in the UK had changed and they were not sure if they could help. (I know that as the retailer they are responsible for the sale under the sale of goods act and must sort it out). The retailer is ESE Music in Maidstone.

What should I do? Can Line 6 replace it directly?

Please advise.

Gauge of strings for el. variax 700 to have more authentic acoustic sound

support@line6.com — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:19:50 GMT

Hi everybody,

first of all sorry for my English.

Few months ago I have bought a electric Variax 700. I was used to play only acoustic guitar and now I am using acoustic guitars models on my variax very often. Did somebody try to put a thicker strings for electric guitar than original 0.10 to have more authentic acoustic sound? Will be affected electric sound hardly by this type of strings? I am thinking about Fender 250H .012 .016 .024 .032 .042 .052.

Please, let me know your opinion.

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!

Workbench software will not sync edited guitar model to Variax 500

support@line6.com — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 04:13:38 GMT

I loaded the Line 6 Monkey software, along with the Workbench software (1.58) onto my computer. With everything connected, the edited guitar model (acoustic guitar body with dropped D tuning) shows up in the software but with an orange and yellow exclamation point in front of it. when I try syncing the file to the guitar, it comes up with a midi timeout error. I had the same problem with a PC loaded with Windows XP. The Uno midisport USB device updates the software on my Vetta II just fine. It even updated the variax software just fine. It just will not update a guitar model. Is there something that can be done about this. I like the guitar but if I cannot edit the guitar models on it, there is no advantage to having it to play. I need the ability to change one of the models to acoustic with jumbo body and dropped D tuning. Another problem it has is that is doesn't register string volume when I try to open the sting volume setup page.

Variax Bass 705 and Monkey

support@line6.com — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:46:01 GMT

Even if i registered my NEW Variax Bass 705 into my account i always get not registered product at Live 6 Monkey. How to solve this?

Re-flashing POD XT and Variax Bass ?

support@line6.com — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:22:19 GMT

Am I able to re-flash my Variax 4 string bass via the Pod XT? What cables are necessary to do this? I am a mac user.

Thanks,

Dan

variax 700 electric fat, muted sound

support@line6.com — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:20:34 GMT

J love my Variax 700 since J have it but J have a difficulty to make the fat, muted, bass sound from the 6th and 5th string something sounding like 'All my Life' song by Foo Fighters, j hope guitarist will understand what J am sayng especialy those who play metal and grunge stuff.

Is it the problem because of pieso pickup or there are some way to get that sound,J try with equilisation but Jam not satisfied.Anyone help Ragards Tanche

Mac OS 10.6

support@line6.com — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:34:45 GMT

Is workbench compatable with Mac OS 10.6 Snow Lepoard? I get the following errors when trying to launch the product.....

An exception was caught.

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V

App info: Variax Workbench 1.58 release - build 98 - Wed Jan 21 16:41:43 PST 2009

Date: 9/4/09 3:18 PM

In thread: Thread[main,5,main]

OS: Mac OS X (10.6 i386)

Java VM Version: 1.6.0_15

Stack trace:

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V

at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash(Native Method)

at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.HideLauncherSplash(L6EmbeddedUtils.java:39)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.Start(L6EditorApp.java:459)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.access$200(L6EditorApp.java:42)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$L6ELauncherBootstrap.OnLaunch(L6EditorApp.java:310)

at cmn.l6java.app.L6App.Launch(L6App.java:194)

Line 6 gear in the Afghani desert?

support@line6.com — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:07:56 GMT

I was in contact today with a young friend of mine who is serving in Afghanistan right now. His guitar was stolen in transit, and he asked me to see if I can find him something to use for recording purposes on his computer. I am considering sending him my Variax 600 and POD XT Live, but I am concerned about how well it will hold up in the area where he is. It's not new gear by any stretch of the imagination, and he is in extremely dry desert country. He tells me the dust gets into everything over there. I don't want to send him anything that's gonna fold up on him over there; I doubt there is a certified Line 6 Service Center In Afghanistan that he could access. Would a used Variax 600 & POD XT Live in good shape stand up to that kind of dust infiltration well enough that it would function for him without problems for about a year?

Mike Vande

7600 Shawnee Mission Parkway

apt 209

Mission, Ks 66202

(913)221-4123

Split Bridge

support@line6.com — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:10:21 GMT

Hey i have a Variax 700 and the bridge has split between the pins, can i get a replacement part or how much is repair.

Variax Workbench installation problem...

support@line6.com — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:19:53 GMT

I tried installing Workbench 1.58, and during the installation, it seems that I can't automatically install Java Environment Runtime 1.50. I was hoping someone can put me on the right track to get it installed properly, as Workbench can't work without Java for obvious reasons...

Have you guys tried alt tunings lately?

support@line6.com — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:52:45 GMT

I have a variax 600 and a pod x3 live. I am using the latest monkey, workbench, drivers etc. I just reflashed the variax.

Tunings from the factory work fine (like those on Custom 2).

If I try to create a tuning with workbench the string pitch is heard ALONG WITH the selected offset pitch. So I hear minor 2nd or 3rd intervals. While this make for a kool effect, it makes creating alt tunings impossible.

I'm hearing this through the amp. This problem is real and reproducible. From what I see on this site others are having the same problem.

I called tech support and waited in queue to talk to a rep. All he could say is that it shouldn't happen and that I should reflash the variax.

Can someone at Line6 take a few minutes to try creating a detuned patch with a 600 and x3 live? Does it work for you guys? How about posting a video on youtube showing the step by step?

Sorry, but this sucks...

Variax 700 Accoustic wird von Workbench nicht erkannt !?

support@line6.com — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:23:04 GMT

Hallo!

Ich benutze eine Variax 600 (Electric) und eine Variax 700 (Accoustic).

Workbench erkennt und editiert problemlos meine 600er.

Die 700er hingegen wird nicht erkannt. Die Variax-In-LED blinkt rot.

Woran kann das liegen?

Danke im voraus.

Bernd Gast

workbench run problem

support@line6.com — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 13:26:49 GMT

An exception was caught.

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V
App info: Variax Workbench 1.51 release - build 88 - Fri Oct 27 14:30:59 PDT 2006
Date: 27.09.09 15:22
In thread: Thread[main,5,main]
OS: Mac OS X (10.6.1 i386)
Java VM Version: 1.6.0_15

Stack trace:

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V
    at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash(Native Method)
    at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.HideLauncherSplash(L6EmbeddedUtils.java:39)
    at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.Start(L6EditorApp.java:459)
    at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.access$200(L6EditorApp.java:42)
    at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$L6ELauncherBootstrap.OnLaunch(L6EditorApp.java:310)
    at cmn.l6java.app.L6App.Launch(L6App.java:194)

Workbench USB adapter and MIDI Time out and other issues

support@line6.com — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 02:38:20 GMT

Hello. Just received the workbench USB adapter, downloaded the latest Monkey and Workbench. Updated the firmware on my Variax 600. I'm using a macbook pro running 10.5.8. All seems well until I try to sync. I get a MIDI Time out alert box with no other text except a continue button. So I tried to download an earlier version of the software. If I try again I get this:

An exception was caught.

cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager$DeviceNotConnectedException: null

App info: Variax Workbench 1.51 release - build 88 - Fri Oct 27 14:30:59 PDT 2006

Date: 10/25/09 10:27 PM

In thread: L6Thread - 'Sync Device - task' - started at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.StartDeviceTask - line 2082

OS: Mac OS X (10.5.8 i386)

Java VM Version: 1.5.0_20

Stack trace:

cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager$DeviceNotConnectedException

at cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager.AcquireDevice(L6PatchManager.java:658)

at cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager.BeginSendPatchBlock_Sync(L6PatchManager.java:663)

at cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager.BeginPatchBlockSend(L6PatchManager.java:631)

at cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager.Synchronize(L6PatchManager.java:589)

at cmn.l6java.patch.L6PatchManager.Synchronize_Write(L6PatchManager.java:566)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$SyncDeviceTask.DoTask(L6EditorApp.java:2203)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$DeviceTask.Task(L6EditorApp.java:1993)

at cmn.l6java.core.L6MonitoredTask$TaskThread.Run(L6MonitoredTask.java:113)

at cmn.l6java.core.L6Thread.run(L6Thread.java:158)

Any thoughts pretty please? I've tried all three USB ports.

Thanks!!

USB Variax Interface is not recognized in Workbench. Blinking Red Light on the guitar side of the interface.....

support@line6.com — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:09:49 GMT

I am going to try again from the top. Thank you to all who have tried to help me.....PLEASE continue if you have any bright ideas. It would be nice if somebody from LINE 6 would address my problem. Here goes:

I have an old desktop: Dell Dimention 8250 with Windows XP-Home Edition. All usb ports are usb2 (enhanced). This computer is running Service pack 3. It has Intel (R) Pentium 4 CPU 2.4 GHz, 2.39 GHz Hard (most of it still unused), 512 MB of Ram. It also has an upgraded Creative Sound Blaster card with midi ports, aux rca inputs & spdif in & out.

I uninstalled all of the line 6 software & reinstalled it. I then upgraded everything in the Monkey. It gives me a choice of selecting the USB interface, my Guitarport or my Podxt. When I select USB interface it (workbench) says "no device detected". There is a blinking red light on the variax side of the USB interface. One thing I have noticed is that the Guitarport & the Podxt both have ESN numbers & the Variax USB interface does not. Does this mean anything?

I have tried all of the USB ports (even with nothing plugged in to the others) & they all result in a blinking red light on the Variax in side.

I have a newer Laptop: Dell Inspiron (E1705) 9400 with XP Media Center 2002 & Service Pack 3. T2400 dual processors at 1.83 GHz, 988 MHz hard, 2.00 GB Ram. It too has enhanced USB2 ports. It also has an upgraded soundcard.

I am quite sure that both of the computers are 32 bit so the lack of a driver for 64 bit should not be the problem. I did everything to the laptop that I did to the desktop.

I JUST WANT TO BE ABLE TO TWEAK MY VARIAX ACOUSTIC 700 WITH THE WORKBENCH & USB INTERFACE I PAID GOOD MONEY FOR!!!! IF LINE 6 CARES AT ALL, I ALSO OWN 2 GUITAR PORTS, A POD XT WITH A FLOORBOARD, WORKBENCH WITH USB INTERFACE, GEARBOX, RIFFTRACKER AND A VARIAX 700 ACOUSTIC. I THINK THAT SHOULD QUALIFY ME AS A GOOD CUSTOMER WHO SHOULD GET SOME HELP FROM LINE 6 TO RESOLVE THIS FRUSTRATING PROBLEM. HOW BOUT IT?????? PLEASE HELP!!!!!!

LOVE

LEE

Tuning

support@line6.com — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:16:39 GMT

I have several thousands of dollars of stuff from Line 6, 2 Variax electrics; 2 acoustics; Pod XTlive, etc. I've been very happy with all of my stuff up until now. My V700 will not stay in tune; hitting the whammy bar raises the pitch on the G string. From what I've read on your site from other players this is a known problem/situation.

What is the solution?

alternate turning s for electric variax 700

support@line6.com — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:52:38 GMT

I still have the custom alternate turning for the variax. However there were a number of others listed on the workbench that I lost.

I would like to get them back.

Rod

I am trying to use my workbench software to customize my Variax 700 acoustic. I have uninstalled & re-installed all of my software & the system refuses to recognize my variax usb interface (flashing red light). I have tried everything. Please help!!!

support@line6.com — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:11:50 GMT

I AM HAVING TROUBLE GETTING THE COMPUTER TO RECOGNIZE MY VARIAX USB PORT. I HAVE A BLINKING RED LIGHT ON THE GUITAR SIDE.I HAVE UNINSTALLED ALL OF THE SOFTWARE, REINSTALLED IT & UPDATED EVERYTHING.I HAVE CHANGED ALL THE CABLES & DID THE SAME THING TO MY OLD COMPUTER (32 BIT) LEST IT WAS THE PROBLEM OF A LACK OF A DRIVER FOR 64 BIT.

I own a shortboard, a pod xt, rifftracker, 2 guitar ports, workbench, gearbox a variax acoustic 700 (which I LOVE & swear by for small & large gigs!!!!!). I just want to add some open tunings & tweak things. I think I have spent enough on Line 6 products for somebody to come to my assistance. I have 8 hours into this & am VERY frustrated. Hallllp!!!!!

love & light

lee

Which piezo system works with Variax electronics

support@line6.com — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:45:48 GMT

Hi there,

in a previous posting I asked about the importance of guitar body & neck tone and resonance characteristics for the Variax sound. http://line6.com/community/thread/4403?tstart=0

Bottom line from the forum seems to be: Except for sustain (obviously) the impact of these characeteristics is medium to low (I'd guess medium).

Now I would like to switch attention to the piezo system and ask a similar question: How important is the piezo system for the Cax sounds? I assume it is very important. hence the question: What characteristics should the right piezo system have in order to make it work well with the Variax modeling?

For example: I'm thinking of putting a Variax system in my Parker Fly Mojo which has a Fishman Piezo system and Preamp. The result could be something like this:
http://www.thomann.de/gb/parker_adrian_belew_signature_fly.htm

However, I am totally not sure, if the piezo system of the standard Mojo (which is the Fishman stuff I mentioned above and NOT the RMC pow´r bridge saddles & RMC PolyDrive 1 preamp used in the Andrea Belew signature Parker) will work???

Cheers,
Karin

Variax Bass Pickguard Material

support@line6.com — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 21:43:25 GMT

Hi,

I just love the color of the Variax Bass Pickguard and would like to have a custum one made for my Variax in the same material.

1. Is it Black Pearl or is it Silver Pearl?

2. Where would I be able to buy a blank sheat of this material?

Regards, Carlo

Variax 600 Problem

support@line6.com — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:03:16 GMT

I have a variax 600 which is connected to a XT Live unit. Most of the time the system is stable, but what has started to happen of late is the variax rguitar andom switches guitar sounds and tunings. This is restored as soon as a reselect the guitar patch from the XT Live.

Drivers for Vista

support@line6.com — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:35:34 GMT

I bought a 600 and variax workbench. I have vista so the software that came with it wouldn't work. I got everything except the drivers to download from your site. Every time I try to download the driver it still doesn't see my usb connection. Any Ideas?

Detuned Variax problem

support@line6.com — Sun, 03 May 2009 04:03:40 GMT

I've detuned my Variax, not by using workbench, but by actually detuning the guitar with thicker gauge strings. Now I'm up to low B, which I love because it really works for me to go that low. But sometimes the low B (former E string) sounds a bit untuneable... like somehow the software can't "see" a note that low....

Anybody have any experiences with detuned Variaxes (real detuning not via the workbench)

Thanks

Issue running workbench on iMAC

support@line6.com — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:50:34 GMT

Just bought the workbench tools and have have downloaded the MAC version. However, i get the following error when trying to run the application. I noticed on the forum there are issues with Mac OSX 10.6.x. Is this related to the issue i have? I have a new iMAC 27 running osx 10.6.2. Please advise.

An exception was caught.

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V

App info: Variax Workbench 1.58 release - build 98 - Wed Jan 21 16:41:43 PST 2009

Date: 11/16/09 6:28 PM

In thread: Thread[main,5,main]

OS: Mac OS X (10.6.2 i386)

Java VM Version: 1.6.0_15

Stack trace:

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V

at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash(Native Method)

at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.HideLauncherSplash(L6EmbeddedUtils.java:39)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.Start(L6EditorApp.java:459)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.access$200(L6EditorApp.java:42)

at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$L6ELauncherBootstrap.OnLaunch(L6EditorApp.java:310)

at cmn.l6java.app.L6App.Launch(L6App.java:194)

RMA status 11487

support@line6.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:18:48 GMT

So what do you all think of this:

I returned an acoustic 700 for warranty repair which has been in Line6 repair locally since MARCH. It is about to be JULY. It has been in the shop that entire time. Line 6 sent two unusable replacement circuit boards. I decided to ship it back to California where hopefully they could get this right.

Now they have had the item for a week, and I have not even heard back that they received the item.

RMA 11487, Fedex tracking 99011700461890, Serial # 21MAG125041202570. It was signed for by R Torres.

I'm wondering about the status of the repair -- and I find no way to email the company, only other users.... Open source community support, like this was free software.I'm going to 'mark it as a question' to alert technical support -- do you think that might help me recoup my expensive investment????

So here's my email to the community.

Line 6 sucks.

I have barely been able to use this instrument since I bought it. I am a professional player and it has quit in the middle of a performance twice. Since March, of course, its been useless. I might as well have thrown all that money in the street.

Line 6 should be ashamed of themselves for their inability to repair this item in a reasonable time period.

I am hoping that if I ever get to play this guitar again, I will feel good enough about Line6 to recommend them. Right now I would not recommend this company to my worst enemy.

Variax 300 convertion

support@line6.com — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 17:19:38 GMT

Can anyone tell me please if it is possible to convert a Variax 300 to a stratocaster i.e. transfer variax electrics etc. to a suitably modified strat body? Does anyone know of anyone who offers this service at all?

Variax Workbench

support@line6.com — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:50:09 GMT

When will the Workbench software and/or interface be compatible with a 64bit O/S?

workbench 1.58 crash

support@line6.com — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:29:14 GMT

workbench 1.58 for mac is crashing.java exception An exception was caught.

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V
App info: Variax Workbench 1.58 release - build 98 - Wed Jan 21 16:41:43 PST 2009
Date: 9/11/09 3:28 PM
In thread: Thread[main,5,main]
OS: Mac OS X (10.6 i386)
Java VM Version: 1.6.0_15

Stack trace:

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V
    at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash(Native Method)
    at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.HideLauncherSplash(L6EmbeddedUtils.java:39)
    at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.Start(L6EditorApp.java:459)
    at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.access$200(L6EditorApp.java:42)
    at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$L6ELauncherBootstrap.OnLaunch(L6EditorApp.java:310)
    at cmn.l6java.app.L6App.Launch(L6App.java:194)

thanks in advance

rubs

Part numbers needed!

support@line6.com — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 05:44:37 GMT

Hi all,

I am looking for part numbers of the flex cable connector on the mainboard of the Variax 500. Also the part number for the other connectors as well if available.

I would prefer manufacture part nubmers versus Line 6 internal part numbers.

Thanks

Dereck

Looking to try the Variax again, but need some re-assurance :)

support@line6.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:55:05 GMT

Hey all. Last year I decided to dip into the world of the Variax - I got one of the few remaining 300's out there, as it didn't make sense to spend a lot of money on something I wasn't 100% on and things like finish and materials weren't top on my list of priorities. Anyway, this is what happened:

http://soundclick.com/share?songid=7182109

When I did a little investigation, it turned out to be something called the 'plink', which basically meant that for even mildly heavy/prog rock based material, palm muting was off the cards.

I decided to send it back while I was still within my 7 day no quibble returns period, but I always thought it was a shame as the potential was amazing.

So basically what I'd like to know is if this is an issue for Variax owners in general? If I can hear people doing anything approaching what I would like to do with the Variax, without this problem, I'd happily jump back in. You can hear at www.myspace.com/chimpspanner the kind of stuff I'm doing. Yes, some of it will involve playing and driving the guitar pretty hard. And some of it will not. I'd love to hear that it's up to the job

Variax controle Pod X3 live

support@line6.com — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 07:57:27 GMT

Bonjour,

Pouvez vous m'expliquer ce que l'on peut faire en utilisant le controle de ma Variax 600 sur le pod X3 live ?

J'ai essayé les 2 positions et je n'ai rien vu.

Dans le manuel d'utilisation, il n'y a aucun exemple des fonctionnalités possible et c'est bien dommage quand on a les 2.

Merci

Nylon string on model 500

support@line6.com — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:00:20 GMT

Hi, is there anyway to get a nylon sound from the Variax 500 as it is available on the acoustic model? It seems technical possible so I guess there might be a marketing concern. Thanks, Joe

RJ45 cable from Variax 500 to interface

support@line6.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:15:43 GMT

I just purchased a used Variax 500/Workbench combo, and the RJ45 cable that runs from the guitar to the interface is malfunctioning. I'd like to find a replacement cable with the barrel connector on the guitar end, but can't find one anywhere. I need help in finding a new one.

Workbench crashes

support@line6.com — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:54:56 GMT

Since installing Snow Leopard, workbench crashes when shut down. It works ok til then, but when it crashes I have to reboot to get rid of the "workbench is shutting down" msg.

I am using a Variax 600 going to X3 Live to Mac via usb.

Gearbox works fine.

Please advise.

Thanks,

Clayton

Re-open Firmware Corrupted on Variax500

support@line6.com — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:06:37 GMT

Hi Line 6Miller!

I'm back. Sorry for the long absence but I'm in the middle and running late on a Christmas Album that has to be out at the end of this month and also, my internet line has been down (Thanks to a Thunderstorm) so I'm having a fight with Telkom to get it up and running again. In desperation I am actually doing this from an Internet Cafe. My Internet should be up again in the next few days and then we can resume normal communication. PS. My problem is still alive and kicking!

This is the last communication I had from you before the interruption and I would appreciate it if we can pick up from here.

>Hello,

>Having a friend in Canada certainly does help as we have a distributor in Canada (actually in Montreal).

>Before we go any further let me just make sure I have everything covered here.

>Is this Variax under warranty? You said you've had it for only a few weeks correct?

>You've tried reinstalling the flash memory in the guitar to no avail as it will not connect to Monkey at >all through your POD correct?

>Have you tried interfacing the guitar with something other than the POD IE: a Variax Workbench >Interface?

>Please let me know and then we can move forward with trying to get you the part you need.

>Line6Miller

My Answer:

Yes, the Variax is still under warranty as I only had it for a few weeks before it packed up.

Yes, I have tried reinstalling the flash memory in the guitar to no avail as it will not connect to Monkey at all through my POD and also freezes the POD when connecting to it via the rj45 connector.

No, I have not tried interfacing the guitar with another interface besides the POD as I don’t have accesss to any other interface but I successfully connected via the POD using another 500 and 600.

PS. Is it not possible to get the parts to me via Marshall Music/Active Music Distribution in Johannesburg, South Africa. I was given the impression that they are the Line6 distributers in South Africa?

Thanks for the support so far. It has been great and re-assuring

Regards, Carlo

Unfair comments about Variax acoustic models?

support@line6.com — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 12:53:28 GMT

I was going to post this on Rick’s thread asking for feedback on the various current models but realised that I wanted to make a different point.

I've been reading a lot of posts complaining about the Variax electric ‘acoustic’ models being unrealistic but I'm wondering if people aren’t comparing like for like. For instance, many people seem to be saying that the strat, tele models etc. are pretty realistic but they don’t like the acoustic ones. But what are they comparing the acoustic models to? If they're comparing them to hearing a good, unamplified acoustic guitar, then I don’t think that’s a fair comparison as when most people ‘play out’ with acoustics they're amplifying them in some way – piezo, under-saddle pickups etc. and then going through an amp/house PA or whatever. Compared to the majority of amplified acoustics including dedicated electro-acoustics, I think the Variax models sound much better.

I've got 2 Santa Cruz acoustics, an OM and a slope-shouldered dread. They're great guitars and not cheap. I've amplified these in many different ways over the years including Fishman and B-Band under-saddle pickups, Fishman Rare Earth Blend undersaddle with mic etc. and using top-quality dedicated acoustic amps such as AERs. None of the many (expensive) solutions I tried came that close to reproducing the sound of the unamplified guitar (the Rare Earth being the best IMO). I also used a Parker Fly Classic live – the acoustic sounds were ok, lots of punch and attack but no real subtlety and it sounded very harsh when strummed.

So now I use a Variax 700 electric and have the best electric/acoustic sounds I've ever had in 30 years of playing. Do the acoustic models sound as good as my unamplified Santa Cruzs? No, but they're better (I think a lot better) than any amplified acoustic I've used including a top-of-the-range Yamaha electro-acoustic, and that, I feel, is the fairest comparison to make.

So next time people comment on the acoustic sounds on the Variax electrics, why not compare them more fairly by comparing them with amplified, pickup-equipped acoustics?

Variax 600 Bridge doesn't lie flat against body... is this normal?

support@line6.com — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 07:31:44 GMT

Greetings,

Ever since I bought my Variax 600 over a year ago, page 25 of the manual really got me concerned. It states, "When it leaves the factory, the tremolo bridge is adjusted to lie flat against the top of the guitar. This not only helps keep tuning consistent, but also eliminates any “flutter” that could reduce the
accuracy of the modeled sounds." I looked at my guitar there are two screws that hold the tremolo bridge down. I thought I just screw those down and the bridge will lie flat against the body. I started to tighten the screw down until it won't go any further. Low and behold the bridge has a gap of approximately 5mm away from the body. I can't get it to lie flat at all. I'm curious is this normal for the Variax 600?

Thanks

FTech

Variax 300 string not working at first and then does after a bit

support@line6.com — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 01:25:37 GMT

Hi,

I have a two year old Variax 300 where the 3rd string does not work when I first turn on the amp and then after awhile it starts working and then there is no problem. All the other 5 strings work fine. I am not using batteries, just the AC power pack.

Chuck

Variax 700 or wait for Variax 2?

support@line6.com — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:09:50 GMT

Hi there,

I have been doing some reading and understand that there may be a Variax 2 in the works.

Currently I have a Variax 500 and an X3 live...love this setup.

I am GASing for a trem guitar (too bad my 500 doesn't have one as I love my guitar).

My thoughts were to purchase a 700 and then sell my 500 (only because I want a trem version) OR to wait until the Variax 2 comes out (I did think about getting a magnetic type pickup guitar but ruled that out as I only want 1 do it all guitar). Only want a Variax.....

If I did go the 700 way, does the trem stay in tune? I won't be Eddie Van Halen with dive bombs but I would love to use the trem for more than just a minor wiggle here or there.....My 500 stays in tune for months (no kidding) but no trem...

Any thoughts on which choice would be most suitable? Any advice on the 700's trem? Any idea/speculation or knowledge of when the Variax 2 will come out?

Thanks in advance for your knowledgable replies....

Repair Needed to either Variax or Pod XT Live - Line 6 Please Save Me!

support@line6.com — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:28:14 GMT

Hi There

My Variax 500 won't communicate via the RC45 cable with my PodXTLive. both units are second hand and neither are under warranty. I've no way of testing which unit is at fault - all I know is when I connect them, the Pod freezes.

As I live in Northants, is it possible to get them checked over at Line 6 UK In Northampton, or is there another service centre nearby?

I really want to be able to control the guitar from the Pod, and also access the Workbench software (this is why I purchased all this gear in the first place!) and it's extremely frustrating not to be able to.

Line 6, please let me pop round! I'll even bring biscuits!

Many thanks

Pete

Bad Model Select Switch on used variax 300???

support@line6.com — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 18:07:26 GMT

Ok, I had thought that my Variax 300 (bought recently on eBay) was all changed around preset-wise, but after borrowing a Workbench setup, and re-flashing it several times, I'm realizing that the rotary model swich is going up from Custom 2 to Reso to Acoustic to Jazzbox to Semi to (sometimes) Chime and next back to Custom 2. I can't get it to any of the higher settings. The switch will move and click in, but the guitar stays in Custom 2. If I shake the switch, I can get it to go into a higfher bank, but it won't stay there. I can use Workbench to move Strat ot Tele models, for example, to the Custom 2 bank, but this shouldn't be a permanent switch. Can the rotary model select switch be sprayed out?? Has anyone heard of this before??? Help??!!!!! Thanx!! JP

Variax 600 choppy sound problem

support@line6.com — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 12:16:36 GMT

My Variax 600 has recently developed an intermittent problem. The sound will occasionally become choppy for a short time - to my ear it sounds like it's quickly switching between other models, but I'm not sure. Changing to other models while experiencing the choppy sound does not cause the problem to go away. I changed the cable which runs from the footswitch and used a direct connection (i.e. ensured it wasn't running through software) but the problem persisted. Today I got the problem while recording, so was able to create a short audio file of the issue.

Lester setting, dry:

http://www.bankie.com/music/variaxproblem.mp3

The guitar is played only at home, so has not received any abuse. Any advice on actions I can take or getting this problem dealt with?

Thanks!

WORKBENCH/VISTA 64BIT

support@line6.com — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:20:48 GMT

do you guys plan on releasing a driver for my workbench/usb interface?

Variax 500 hookup question

support@line6.com — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:15:43 GMT

Can I use both outputs at the same time? I want to go to a pod xtlive from the vdi and and a Pod 2.0 from the analog.

Variax Acoustic 700 Strings

support@line6.com — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:06:55 GMT

Could you please tell me what strings the Vaiax Acoustic 700 normally ships with? I got mine used and would like to replace the strings with the same kind that it would come from the factory with. Unless, of course, you have a suggestion for a better set.

Thanks a million

Jamie Elswick

Memphis, TN

BB's Lucille as Custom Variax Config?

support@line6.com — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:47:34 GMT

Hi there,

What do you think, what would be the closest match available as Variax Workbench config for the Gibson Lucille? Semi Bluesking body with Jazz Humbuckers? More detailed config needed? Thanks .

- yallu

Two Variax model selector knob settings point to the same model bank

support@line6.com — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:23:37 GMT

Hi. I have a Variax 500 and a Pod X3 Live. I bought the Variax used. The model selector knob doesn't seem to work properly. When I bought the guitar, the first two knob settings (Custom1 and T-model) both pointed to the Custom1 bank. From there everything was shifted--the knob, set on Spank pointed to the T-model settings and sounds, Lester pointed to Spank, Special pointed to Lester.... This is what I was seeing with workbench and it was confirmed by the sounds that the guitar was producing. So since everything was shifted, the Custom2 knob setting pointed to Reso and the Custom2 sounds were not reachable with the guitar. I shifted things around in Workbench so that everything now points to what its supposed to, EXCEPT the Custom1 and T-model knob settngs still point to a single model bank (now T-model) so I only have one set of custom settings (Custom2) to work with. This sounds like it might be a hardware problem with the switch(?). Or have you heard of a problem like this before? Thanks, --Alan

Using Variax pickup outputs

support@line6.com — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 05:39:40 GMT

HI there

I have a question. I would like to drive a GK type device using the existing saddles on my Varaix. Is there any impedance issues I need to know about?

I am thinking of builing a small buffer circuit to split the audio output of the the saddles to the Variax mainboard the other to maybe a Ghost saddle Hexophonic interface or a Roland GK kit.Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Dereck

variax 300 acoustic steel pickup

support@line6.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 13:01:13 GMT

I bought a used 300 and there's a noticable difference in the volume of the lower 4 strings compared to the 2 high ones (the two high ones are very sensitive, while the lower ones are kinda dead). This is in respect to volume on the amplifier, if played without plugging it in, there's no noticable difference. Even the 2 in the middle are less volume then the lowest 2 strings. I've replaced the strings 2x now, and although with each try I noticed a different sensitivity in each string, they're still not the same and the low ones are not "loud" enough.

Is there a gain control per string? Is this a common behavior or is there something wrong that needs repair? Someone told me the piezo pickup may need to be replaced, however I can't find any store (including the line 6 online store) that carries them. Any advice/help is appreciated - thanks :-)

variax 300

support@line6.com — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:44:32 GMT

how does this nylon guitar sound without the amp?

Thanks,

Mike

Multiple problems with brand new Variax Acoustic 700

support@line6.com — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:43:29 GMT

I have trawled through the community pages, and other online forums, and searched the web in general. Whilst I have come across similar problems to mine, I can't find the help I need to solve my problem.

I have a support profile, guitarmanshack, the same as my user name.

I am not a happy man. My Variax Acoustic 700 is brand new. I received it yesterday. Before getting it out of the case I read the manual cover to cover, although I am pretty familiar with Line 6 gear in general. Then, for a few hours I happily played it through my POD X3 Live with no problems. I tried it with the supplied power supply/DI, batteries, and via digital connection. I exprimented with different mic, compression and volume settings, different tunings, the string balance and detuning on the 12-string models etc . Everything worked just fine. Then I started to hear digital noise, a kind of static, at first via the power supply/DI connection, but it was the same when running off batteries or via the digital connection. The noise only went away with the volume slider at zero. So I tried different cables, different batteries, I checked for possible interference, ground loops etc. The problem would not go away and the noise started to get worse, to the extent that it was louder than the actual guitar sound. I noticed that the noise differed from preset to preset, at times resembling modem noise, telephone static, or white noise hiss. It appeared worse on the presets that, I should imagine, require the most DSP, such as the Sitar. Then I started to notice DSP glitches in pitch and tuning. Then, some of the individual strings started to cut in and out. After about an hour and a half, with the problem getting steadily worse, I tried a soft reset of the VAC 700 a couple of times but this had no effect, so I unplugged everything and went online to find some help.

A couple of posts mentioned similar problems, although not as severe as my own, and one user reported that, for him, the noise went away after a firmware upgrade. As I had intended to do this anyway, to benefit from Workbench functionality, I decided to try this the following day (today).

So, this morning I set up my computer and POD X3 Live (the details of my setup are in my support profile). Line 6 Monkey identified my VAC 700 which I duly registered. I was then given the option to update the firmware. On attempting to do this I received the error code 8000900C, a MIDI time-out. I tried again and got the same message. So I downloaded the .vxf file and tried to update from file. Same message. I then turned up the volume pedal on the X3 Live and noticed that all the noise had gone. However, my VAC 700 was dead. On looking at the X3 display and turning the model select knob on the VAC 700, I noticed that the VAC 700 patches all said 'null patch'. Another trawl of the support pages revealed that the 8000900C error message occurs frequently when attempting firmware upgrades on various Line 6 products. I also found VAC 700 users who had lost all their patches as a result. Interestingly, I also read about a known problem with X3 Live USB functionality for which Line 6 have apparently offered a free hardware upgrade.

So, here I am with a totally useless, 2 day old VAC 700, having wasted hours of my time. I am a gigging musician. The VAC 700 was an essential purchase to fulfill an important work commitment next weekend. I do appreciate that we are dealing with some pretty intricate and complicated technology here, and that things do go wrong. However, my X3 Live has never malfunctioned, after 18 months of very heavy use. Neither did my POD XT before it. The Variax is a mature product and should not suffer such catastrophic early failure of this type. Similarly the firmware update procedure should not be fraught with such danger. That a failed procedure can render unusable a product designed for professional use is simply not acceptable.

Have I been sold sub-standard stock? My VAC 700 came from an online retailer so it hasn't been hanging in a shop for months or used as a demo model. Presumably I am the first person since Line 6 QC to handle the thing. Naturally I am worried that, should it come to it, the retailer will decline to replace the product as I have attempted to update the firmware. Is there anything I can do? I desperately need this guitar to be up and running by Friday 28th August. Please help.

How to avoid to hear the radio through my Variax???

support@line6.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 20:13:11 GMT

Hi,

It's an old problem for me but it's getting worse: if I have my Variax 500 plugged through two cables (to power supply and to Workbench, for example) and if I lower its volume, I hear the radio... No trouble when the guitar is powered by batteries. It's with the original TRS and A/B box that the issue appears.

I find it really annoying since I've bought a guitar synth and mounted an onboard hex transducer. I'd like to go back and forth between synth and guitar tones. And it's almost impossible because of this LOUD radio sound once the guitar is powered by its original 9v transformer... HELP!

variax 300 problem

support@line6.com — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:28:05 GMT

my guitar variax 300 don´t work well, is jumpin beetwen the guitars selection, I have a pod xt live, this is the only way to change the guitars presets, what can I do to repair?, I don´t know haw to restart it, somebody knows about it?

Variax 300 Strange behaviour

support@line6.com — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 23:21:09 GMT

Dear Line6 R&D,

i got a very strange behaviour of my Variax 300:

after having played a very fast solo, all presets starting custom1 to special, sounding the same as custom 1.

I cannot understand what happened. I just know that my audience was "impressed" but my preset were blow away...

Please, let me know about this strange problem.

I cannot play with a guitar that change random, in the middle of a performance.

I'll wait for your reply.

Mignolyx

Variax Workbench

support@line6.com — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 04:17:09 GMT

I have the following computer hardware:

HP 345 Intel Celeron D Processor
512 MB
160 GB Hardrive
Windows XP
Guitar: Line 6 Variax 700 (Electric)

The Variax Workbench software was downloaded properly & appeared to be functioning. I experimented with the alternate tuning options. However, when I received a screen request asking if I wanted to change the Variax settings it changed in the scratch bank and asked if I wanted to change the settings on the Variax guitar itself but it did not work. I have checked the documents from the Variax Workbench community and although I followed the instructions (and in the instructions it was stated the settings would change immediately) the settings did not change. I attempted to apply the Stephen Still's tuning (EEEEBE) (flat & natural) & the Jimmy Page tuning for The Rain Song (DGCGCD). Both with electric & acoustic guitars which was not easy since it appears the software will not let you tune the same tuning multiple times. I also tried using the pre-set tunings (DADGAD; Drop D) but these also did not work. There is no manual explaining the process (unbelievable!) so can you provide the proper directions?

Ps In addition, the RJ-45 cable is stuck in the guitar & I am concerned it will break if I attempt to remove it too forcibly.

variax and roland gr30

support@line6.com — Thu, 14 May 2009 06:34:29 GMT

just bought a roland gr 30 and after looking at some demos on you tube im looking forward to using this on the mis setting with the variax. on the mix setting you get the midi sound and the guitar sound at the same time. has anyone tryed this . id be interested in feedback on this.

Variax 700 freezes POD XT Live when connecting the RJ-45 cable

support@line6.com — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:00:10 GMT

Hi there.

Just bought a two years old Variax 700 in perfect condition.

There's something funny going on with the Variax and the connection to my POD XT Live. When I plug the RJ-45 cable, the POD freezes. I can hear the sound of the bank in use, but there's no action from any of the buttons on the POD.

Strange about the cables too. I've tried several RJ-45, all of them CAT5 or better, but only one of them actually connects to the POD (and freezes it).

Actually I bought an RJ-45 from Line 6, it comes together with the FBV2 foot-switch. This one doesn't work with the Variax and POD either.

Someone mention that it could be a power issue? Because when connecting the Variax, the POD has to power it as well, and the transformer/adapter might not meet those expectations? I don't know, just read this somewhere.

When trying with other RJ-45 the POD displays a sparse "no Variax connected". Out of four working cables (I use them for my network) only one seems to work with the variax.

I'm going a bit crazy with this. If there's any Line6 genius around that could help me?

Cheers

gorka

Variax 600 Neck Replacement

support@line6.com — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:25:58 GMT

The cheapo neck on my Variax 600 will no longer respond to neck adjustments. I bought this new. My s/n is 05052253. Horrible neck from day one - the frets stuck out so bad they cut my fingers - seriously! I still like most of my tons of Line6 gear, though...

How can I get the neck replaced?

Thanks!

300 gone--so what's on the horizon

support@line6.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 23:28:13 GMT

I just noticed that the 300 has been taken of the vax site--that and some other web-oddities lead me to speculate that something new may be coming soon...?!

What the next Variax should look (and play) like...

support@line6.com — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:29:54 GMT

In my opinion of course...

I just got this back together (and working) yesterday, complete with push-pull for switching off the Variax electronics and selecting the passive pickups. I love the Variax electronics but didn't like the look or the feel of the 300 that I had. I used an SX tele and routed out the back. I works very well but was a lot of work to redo the wiring.

Variax problems...

support@line6.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 17:12:40 GMT

Hi,

Very new to this so please forgive my naivity:)

I've been using my Variax for gigs for years and it has been a great tool, getting me through -25 in France to +50 in the Canaries but it died last night. I was playing away and first my bottom E string went, then my A, then my D. I had to cut the gig at this point. My D came back on the night but by then it was too late.

The next morning I set up, plugged in and the guitar worked fine for about 30 mins then the A string just stopped sounding. I unplugged, left it for a while then plugged in again and it's working!!! Any ideas?

I've also managed to buy a new Variax second hand this morning ( another local musician has three ) but the selector knob won't pull out so I can't assign guitars to Customise my guitar. Again, any ideas? I've tried pulling it with pliers ( not too hard ) but no joy.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Gazza

Variax 600 electronics problem

support@line6.com — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:34:48 GMT

Hi There

I have a curious problem with my Variax 600 and wondered if anyone here has had similar problems.

I have lost position 1 on the five way switch that controls the different patches. Ie the patch that is in position 2 is the same as position 1 (therefore no position one sounds). If I connect it up to the workbench software it also shows it as missing???. Very occasionally all the patches come back for a while and then they randomly dissappear again. Also when choosing a custom created patch (ie dropped tuning), half way through a song it will lose the settings and go back to standard tuning.

I have tried re flashing the variax and this made no difference. I bought it off ebay about 3 or 4 months ago and there is no warranty left on it. Does anyone know of a good variax repair centre and roughly how much this would cost to fix it, or is it a cheaper option to buy a second hand 300 and transplant the electronics. I love this guitar to bits and really want to get it sorted out so I can gig with it.

any help much appreciated.

Part Needed

support@line6.com — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:27:07 GMT

I have a variax 700 on which the tremolo arm holder screw and inner collar have fallen out...this part just screws into the tremolo arm assembly.

I'd like to order another one...can I do it direct from line 6 UK.....rather than going through The Reverb Store in Bristol.

XPS-Mini help

support@line6.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:25:25 GMT

I just purchased a used Variax 300 it came with a XPS but no cables or power supply so

I ordered a Line 6 power supply and a TRS stereo cable when I hooked it to the guitar it

would not play so I got out my meter and checked the cables I am getting 8 volts between

the ring and the sleeve ground at the guitar end of the input cable I think this is OK but

I am not getting a connection between the tip of the output and the tip of the input cables.

The Guitar plays fine with batteries.

Variax 700 tremolo bar

support@line6.com — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:03:11 GMT

I have recently purchased the Variax 700 electric guitar. Great axe, with some really sweet tones. I only have one problem, the included tremolo arm won't screw into the hole next to the bridge. Having looked at closeups of these guitar I concluded that most have something sticking up out of the hole (which I assume to be the tremolo arm holder). However, my guitar lacks that, the hole is in the bridge, for the rest it is completely flat. I am almost certain that the tremolo arm included is original. Is there any way to solve this or replace this? I've ordered my guitar from a different country so sending the entire thing back would be such a hassle. I really like it save for this one point.

Thanks a lot guys!

Matt

Why doesnt line6 sell replacement parts?

support@line6.com — Sun, 24 May 2009 00:09:09 GMT

im wondering why the company doesnt sell replacement parts ?

Missing XPS

support@line6.com — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 20:11:58 GMT

I just picked up a Variax 300 and the seller was missing the XPS box. The power supply was included, as was the TRS cable. Is there some was I can get the connector box?

Instrument sound dropouts on Variax300 - anyone else?

support@line6.com — Sun, 24 May 2009 16:39:43 GMT

Background:

I have a variax 300. It's been back to Line6 UK once already (who were very helpful) to sort out a loose data cable socket (I had to 'shim' a matchstick in the XLR/Data connector to stop horrid dropouts - they swapped out that board and reurned / collected by UPS).

Unfortunately, now it's back, there's a new problem:

I get an intermittent 'gargling dropouts' effect on single instruments - so, say 'spank4/5' will be dropping out while 'spank1/2/3' are OK and all others are fine, then, after say 10 mins the problem goes away, but comes back on a 'lester' instrument. The dropouts are noticeable on any 'sustained chord' at a kind of 'random tremelo' or 'sample and hold' intervals of 100-500ms and continues as long as the chord is held. Problem came and went during last band practice and was very, very boring.

I have tried, without success:

Downloading guitar firmware update (up to date anyway) via 'monkey'.

Re-booting guitar by removing data cable (and leaving it 20 secs or so).

Updating all the instruments (monkey)

Problem eventually goes away as mysteriously as it arrived.

Sounds like a very dodgy onboard DSP board to me.

I will be taking this up under warranty in the coming week, but have been checking it's not something already here...

...so is this problem familiar to anyone? If so I'd be interested to hear from you. I've had a look in the Forum, but couldn't see a topic on this...

Thank you

Line6 Monkey doesn't see my Variax 300 in X3L

support@line6.com — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 20:43:33 GMT

When I run Line6 Monkey, it doesn't see the Variax 300 that is pluged in my X3L ?

And it is not able to find the workbench's version that is currently installed ?

I have installed the latest version for each software 1.27 for Monkey and 1.58 for the WB.

Is there a way that it does ?

Regards

Variax importance of body & neck sound & resonance

support@line6.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:56:06 GMT

Hi there,

how important are the non-pickup characteristics of normal guitar for the Variax sounds?

Example: Are the resonance of the variax body the amount and richness of overtones which the Variax body & strings generate (BEFORE the modeling) important for the Variax sounds or are those characteristics modeled as well?

These are questions which a normal guitar would address with its body, kinds of woods, neck-construction (mount or thru etc.) etc.

But I have no idea, how important those things are to the Variax sound. If they are not important for sound then it becomes merely a question of playing comfort

Karin

Power Supply Variax 600

support@line6.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:13:30 GMT

With my powersupply with 6 AA batteries I can only play two gigs of 10 minutes. Within I plug off the cable between amp and guitar. What's the matter? I thought batterie powersupply could last for 10 hours.

Variax 300 5-way toggle problem

support@line6.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 17:15:21 GMT

Hi!

Just got a Variax 300 (well, a couple of months ago, but that's another story). As it had been sitting on the hook for quite a bit, and played quite a lot, the model knob and 5-way selector were a bit loose. The model knob was quite jumpy and switched models around while I was playing. So I brought the instrument back to the store and they sent it in to have both switches replaced. A month and a half later, I get the guitar back. The model knob is fine. The 5-way switch feels solid, but I'm having trouble accessing positions 1 and 4. Sometimes, switching from 2 to 1 does nothing. Then I'll bring the switch all the way to 5, then back to 1, and I'll be fine.

Sounds like anotherr trip to the shop, but I thought I'd ask in here anyways. Is this anything that some insulation of the "coffin" might cure? Any other advice? I'd hate to be anotherr month and a half without the guitar...

Thanks a bunch!

Paul

xps A/B and variax 300

support@line6.com — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:05:42 GMT

I hope you can help me, ive bought a 2nd hand variax 300, where the XPA A/B was included

My problem is, that when i connect the xlr output to a mixer, theres no sound... the jack output is fine.

Ive read that the 300 series was origanely shipped with the xps-mini, becasuse of some power issue ???!!!!!

isnt the electronics the same in the electric series ???

but anyways...... any suggestions.

a happy player.....

New Variax 600: defective 5-way selector

support@line6.com — Fri, 15 May 2009 22:37:13 GMT

Hi,

Mid-april I bought a Variax 600 blue which has a terrific look if you ask me. Anyway when I brought it home, it appeared that the piezo of the A string was defective (made noise while playing) so I brought it back to the shop. A week later I got a new Variax 600 as a replacement. I test it in the shop and it works fine. But now this week the 5-way selector has started to have problems.

When I switch from position 1 to 2 the model doesn't always change. Same thing when switching from position 2 to 3 or from 2 to 1. The other position changes seem to work fine tough. I guess I'll have to bring the guitar back to the shop once again :-( Is there anything else I can try by myself? I already reinstalled the firmware, it doesn't change anything to the 5-way selector problem

Do the Variax guitar have quality insurance problems? Two new guitars having problems like this in a short time would indicate this. It's the most expansive guitar I bought to this day and it's the one that has made the most problems :-(

Thanks for hearing my whining and if you have an idea...

Variax 300 - one piezo is dead, where can i buy one ?

support@line6.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:44:50 GMT

Hello,

Sorry for my english but i'm french,

One of my piezo is dead on my Variax 300. I have to find a new one but i don't know where ?

I have just to solve the new one on replacement.

Thank in advance for answer.

Gregory

Variax 700 String/Pickup noise

support@line6.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 04:48:28 GMT

I am getting a weird distortion noise from my 5th string. It started occassionally about a month ago. Now it's pretty much constant. I also have a problem with the selector knob. It is smooth until it comes to the Lester position and then it feels like it gets stuck slightly. I've had the guitar for about 5 months now and loved it until this started happening. Any ideas?

Variax 300 and XPS A/B?

support@line6.com — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:51:27 GMT

I know the Line 6 XPS & VDI FAQs state that the only supported power sulppy for the Variax 300 is the XPS Mini. Does this mean the 300 doesn't work at all with the XPS A/B power supply, or just that any problemas are not supported. Does anyone have any experience trying the A/B with the 300? Does it work at all?

In particular, since the XLR output capability of the 600/700 series seems to be in the A/B unit rather than in the guitar itself, is it possible to make use of the XLR output of the A/B unit with a 300 model guitar?

Variax 600 neck dimensions

support@line6.com — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 13:37:07 GMT

I am interested in the variax 600, but I prefer a rosewood fretboard. I own a Warmoth neck that I previously used on a Fender Squier. Warmoth sent me the neck dimensions, but could not confirm if that neck will fit a Variax 600. What are the dimensions of the factory neck for the 600?

Transplanting Variax 300 electrics - Is scale length significant?

support@line6.com — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:51:10 GMT

I'm about to transplant my Variax 300 (electric) electronics into an ES335 copy. Someone told me that he's heard of problems with changing the scale length (possibly due to the algorithms in the electronics being programmed specifically for the output of the 25.5" scale length of a Variax guitar).I can't see why this would be the case but don't want to wait to find out for sure until I've completed the conversion!

Has anyone put Variax 300 electronics into a 24.5" scale guitar? Does it make any difference? Were there any intonation issues?

Thanks

Chris

register workbench

support@line6.com — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:22:07 GMT

Hi, I bought a variax workbench last week but i can't register it. there is a problem with th serial # that can't be validated.

Thank you for answer me how to resolve it.

Help! I just purchased variax workbench

support@line6.com — Tue, 12 May 2009 01:51:55 GMT

I just purchased Variax Workbench to customize my variax 600 but the driver and/or firmware wont load so my computer won't communicate with my guitar. It's a pretty new computer with Vista home premium. I've tried downloading the driver from the website but it won't load.

Graph Tech Nut Install Variax 600

support@line6.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 19:17:36 GMT

hey guys i ordered a graphtech nut (model PT-6643-00) to replace the stock one,

i seem to remember a detailed instruction set on the old forum with pictures etc...

i'm unable to find that, could someone point me in the right direction... thanks!

Unable to update USB firmware

support@line6.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:48:59 GMT

I have a Variax 600, and I've just taken delivery of Workbench with the USB interface.

After installing, it tells me to run Line 6 Monkey which then updated itself numerous times.

It then updated Workbench to v1.58. It now says I need to update the USB Firmware from 1.0 to 1.03.

Every time it attempts the update it either reports that it's unable to update because the file is corrupt, or that it can't update because the memory is locked.

The Workbench is unuseable, because every few minutes, it announces that the device is disconnected, then it decides it is connected, then it's not and so on.

Variax palm muting resonance

support@line6.com — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 22:57:44 GMT

I've found that when palm muting with high gain that a resonance about a 4th up from the palm muted note is louder than the actual note. For an open E the resonance is about 1800hz. This happens only with the open strings which is odd. It makes me think there is something vibrating somewhere on the guitar. Is there a fix for this? I've included an mp3 with an unadulterated clean sound. If you use a frequency analyzer the resonance is clearly seen at 1767hz and goes away when a fretted G is played.

Alternate tunings

support@line6.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:53:11 GMT

What is the process of saving alternate tunings. I have a Variax 600 and Pod XT live on the floor. Manual does not address this directly. Do I need workbench?

Once you go Variax, it's hard to go back! Anyone else?

support@line6.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 02:17:14 GMT

Since getting my 600, I've played nothing else for two months. Gigs, recording, practicing- all variax. Today I picked up my VERY nice Gibson 345 and plugged it in. I was a bit shocked at how lifeless it sounded compared. I love that guitar, don't get me wrong. But having played and listened to nothing but the variax for a while now, it seems I'm VERY spoiled! It's confirmed for me- I actually prefer the modeled sounds now. They are always clean with great sustain, tone, and clarity. It's like always having a brand new set of strings on ALL of your guitars. Yeah, I must admit I can't go back now! That's saying a LOT of this instrument and it's software.

Anyone else ever feel this way? I've read people saying they usually go the OTHER way- back to the real analog instruments. Not me- at least not for a very long time to come!

Dan

Bad pickups on Variax bass - A and D strings acting funny, no or little sound

support@line6.com — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:08:10 GMT

I think 2 of my piezo pickups have gone bad, on A and D strings. Last night was practicing and noticed the bass was making a wind/background noise when I wasnt playing anything, then noticed the sound on A string coming in and out, almost like a phaser or like I was messing with the volume knob. I plucked just the A several more times and it just went out, sounded like I was playing a palm mute or something but I was not, then the D string did the same and was just making a kind of whistle or feedback sound when I plucked it. I did what little I could to try to fix it

I've heard other people saying to loosen strings and wiggle the bad pickups to see if it comes back. I have not tried this extensively yet but, if that doesnt work, where can I get new pickups? I've got some gigs coming up so I cannot go long without.

Also,

even when the pickups were working fine, it seemed the D and G strings are not as loud as the E and A. (Which may be due to me having one 15" speaker in my amp instead of more smaller speakers). But regardless, I'd like to have the strings closer to the same volume. Is there any way to do this? I've heard some mention of Workbench, but did not know if that software works with the Variax bass or if I needed to buy additional equipment, etc.

Thanks

"How does Parker get thier Variax electronics?" and other exciting questions...

support@line6.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 02:03:34 GMT

Just curious...

does Parker Guitars have to rip apart Variax's to make the Adrien Belew Fly (for 10 grand, they could afford it)? or does Line6 provide them with the guts?

and does anybody around here actually own an AB fly? or know anybody that does?

has anybody that owns one opened them up to see what's going on in there? or has anybody seen pics on the net of somebody who has?

if anybody here has an AB fly or knows somebody that does, can you please open it up and take some pics? it would be a great help to us transplant enthusiasts... there are a few things going on with that guitar that i've never seen on a transplant so far, and it would be nice to see how they did it...

Is it possible to get a Variax 700 to sound like a nylon strung classical guitar

support@line6.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:49:23 GMT

I have just bought Workbench in the hope that I would be able to model a nylon string acoustic with my new Variax 700 electric.

Is there a plug in to do this?

I am sure I saw a guy do this with his Variax electric.

Any suggestions?

Unable to program Variax through Vetta II

support@line6.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 00:21:53 GMT

Midi works great to program Vetta II, but when trying to program Variax through Vetta II the Variax stops responding and reports Midi Timeout. Can restore connection with workbench, but again times out when attempting to sync.

Planet Waves Auto Trim Locking Tuners

support@line6.com — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 06:17:07 GMT

I was going to get some Sperzel locking tuners for my Variax 300 (I have used those on my late Parker NiteFly SA) to alleviate the tuning issues on my Variax. Instead I got a great deal on Planet Waves Auto Trim tuners. I did the labor myself and not only does the guitar stay in tune better but the larger (and better made) tuners have added a noticeable difference in tone and sustain. Granted, I was hoping as much but realizing it is that much better!

I'm willing bet that both the Planet Waves and Sperzel brands will give a similar effect. Those are the only two brands I have used and they both employ a *similar* heavy peg design.

Conversion is more than likely still just around the corner though.

variax 500 sound pulsing: no batteries and still it happens.

support@line6.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 03:18:35 GMT

Hi,

I'm reassembling my variax transplanted 500. I have the "sound pulsing on and off" problem that I've heard about before. I tried what the FAQ suggested and disconnected the batteries, but this doesn't help. I vaguely recall someone fixing this by buying a new power supply (?). Is that the solution? I see them for sale for $20 bucks. Can anyone please verify this? Will that solve my problem?

Thanks,

Kurt

Cracking noise on reso and acoustic variax 300

support@line6.com — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:47:47 GMT

When selecting reso and acoustic models ther is a strange cracking sound constantly

reso 1 loud

reso 2,3 not present

reso 4 lower

reso 5 lower

acoustic 1 2 4 5 all the same

acoustic 3 it's faint

It's not on any others models

it is the same using power supply or batteries

please help me

Variax acoustic 700

support@line6.com — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:37:47 GMT

I recently had a factory certified service center replace the circuitboard in my acoustic 700. Now when I press the selector button to save my settings the green light will not turn red to indicate the settings have been saved. The green light does not turn red when using the 12 string settings as it is supposed to. Does anyone have any experience that might facilitate an easy fix?

distortion on D string piezo

support@line6.com — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:26:49 GMT

Hey Guys,

I was doing some recording in the studio the other day and noticed that the D-string on my variax 700 is making a buzzing sound when I record. I triple checked i wasn't getting a fret buzz anywhere. The more I looked into it the more is sounds like a distortion on the piezo.

I've attached a sound file of it. My chain is Variax > VDI > Pod X3 Pro > USB > Logic Studio 9.

I've recorded it completely clean and have included a comparison of the G string too.. the attachment kept failing so its here: http://public.me.com/sb00020

I'm guessing I'm going to need to get it replaced. Does anyone have any experience with similar problems? How long did it take to be repaired etc? I'm in the UK if that makes any difference.

Thanks in advance

Sam

s/pdif or aes output for variax?

support@line6.com — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:47:05 GMT

I stumbled across a pinout for the variax vdi connector:

1 - GND

2 - PWR (7V)

3 - TX+

4 - AES-

5 - AES+

6 - TX-

7 - RX+

8 - RX-

It looks like two of the pins are the digital audio pins, and they output a plain AES standard digital signal. Wouldn't it be easy then, to just make a Variax->AES adapter (or better yet, Variax->s/pdif adapter) so people could plug their vax directly into a pc for recording? Does Line6 or anybody else make a product like this? To your knowledge has anybody come up with a diy solution?

Thanks

Workbench for windows vista 64

support@line6.com — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:33:09 GMT

I've just bought the workbench for my Variax 700 but I have Windows Vista 64. When will there be a driver for this?

Variax whit TC Helicon Harmony G

support@line6.com — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 23:36:18 GMT

hi. Sorry for my bad english.

I'm a proud Line6 user!

I actually play a Variax 500 with a POD X3 Live whit the digital cable.

I'm a singer and guitarist and I'm buying a TC Helicon Harmony G pedal, for harmonize my voice.

This pedal take harmonies from guitar, so with the Variax I'd have to use the normal stereo cable to connect guitar to the pedal.

But in this way I can't change Variax models by my POD!

The question is: can i connect AT THE SAME TIME the digital cable from Variax to POD and the stereo cable from Variax to Harmony G?

In this way i can control Variax by POD and send signal to Harmony G to give harmonies.

And have I to use the Variax alimentator or it takes power from POD?

Thanks

Low E and A volume and fuzzy

support@line6.com — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 04:12:42 GMT

Hi I have a variax 500 and my low e and a strings vol is real low and fuze compared to the other strings reflashed firmware did not help will I need to change out the piezo and will line 6 send them to me there is no service center near me. will the x-bridge piezo fit in the variax saddles?

Variax600 bad noise with tremolo

support@line6.com — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 21:40:43 GMT

Hello there

Just got me a Variax 600 in excellent condition. Only problem is that when i use the tremolo the guitar starts making all kinds of noises. Not the kind a regular trem produces but almost like the noise that comes when one plugs in a cable with volume and amp already powered on. In other words it sounds as "bad connection".

Doesn't matter if I use a regular cable or RJ45-type (with my XTL). I'll try to attach a soundfile.

Any ideas how to fix it or where the problem lies?

I also got a 300 where the A and D strings are silent at first but comes alive after a while. I see that there are others with the same problem.

Any ideas?

Many regards

Olle

(Sweden)

still no 64 bit driver for workbench

support@line6.com — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 10:59:23 GMT

ive tryed again to update the workbench software and its usb 64 bit connection . no luck. so i guess my variax as good as it is will have to be what it is . but my workbench software and hardware will remain useless thanks to line 6 not writing a 64 bit usb driver for this hardware. is this what will happen with all the line 6 products as they get older and windows changes and upgrades? i think they should be more supportave. after all there starting to get more competition. unfortunately roland fender and gibson are a much more expensive alternative but as always the clock is ticking till the japanese guitar makers start on this kind of project.dont forget they sooner or later copy everything else.and yes i put in a request for this software but line 6 knows this is needed so why not just write it without making people have to beg them.

Variax Presets

support@line6.com — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 19:15:40 GMT

Is there a simply way to restore the factory presets to my Variax 600 guitar?

Variax 700 acoustic guitar

support@line6.com — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:20:07 GMT

I lost almost all my volume on my high E and tried adjusting the string volume on my workbench but it's still not as loud as my other strings is there some kind of progam or update I can use to solve this issue?

G and D strings don't sound loud enough

support@line6.com — Fri, 08 May 2009 22:09:07 GMT

Hi,

I have a Variax 700. I noticed that G and D strings' sound is eclipsed by the other strings when played together.

They are not totally muted: I can hear them when playing only either or both of them, but they sound like 10dB quieter than the other four strings.

I lowered those strings to feed more gains to the Variax's pickup, but not significant change happened.

I guess the piezo pickup doesn't work for the two middle strings.

Shoud I go to repair shop or can I fix it by myself?

Thank you in advance,

Ha Young Park

Workbench cant load java

support@line6.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:59:20 GMT

I cant run workbench it says cant find java runtime then another window say cant load JNILoader. Have reinstalled Java but it doesnt help

Variax 600 Electric E6 string softer & Duller

support@line6.com — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:17:50 GMT

Hi Guys,

Just bought a Variax600 Electric. On the 'Spank' model selection the Bass E string is softer and duller than the rest. This imbalance only seems to apply to the 'Spank' model and not to the rest. I tried other 600's at the dealer and they all seem to be the same. Is there a solution to this problem? Fender being my favourite it really bugs me when I play.

Thanx

cost of line 6 repair services vs buy another one

support@line6.com — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:47:53 GMT

ok, i bought a used 600 that MAY have some problems... seems it has some intermittent choppy sounds and it jumps from my selected instrument sound to one of its own choosing... at least once each day, since i received it... i did spray some contact cleaner into the pots as recommended, but thats as far as i'm going, cuz i have several days to make a decision on what i want to do with it...

i like the way it plays... its rare that i find a guitar i like right off... i usually MUST have something about it changed... and sometimes, they still don't play the way i want... i've a closet full! but this one just fits! i'd like to think this is an omen...

i can send it back, of course, and get another used one, buy a new one, or upgrade to the 700... does the price difference really show up between the two?

but i'm thinking... i like the way this one feels... how about sending it to line 6 and having it repaired...

i figure there're probably folks here that have done that... and can give me some information about prices... it may be worth more to me to have it fixed than to take a chance on finding another one i like as well...

New Variax Models?

support@line6.com — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:18:04 GMT

I keep reading through the threads about "new variax models" and I've noted local music shops seem to be getting rid of their 300's/500's at sale prices.

Are the 600's and 700's the "new models" everyones talking about here, or is a new series on the way? (i.e. within the next 6 months to a year).

Any info may help to save me a heap of pingers!

I was wondering where i could input my variax bass's serial number and find out when it was made

support@line6.com — Fri, 15 May 2009 02:51:15 GMT

I have looked everywhere and cannot find where to put it in anywhere. Thanks for help in advance!

number isEnter text here. Characters left: 12505030008 if that is helpful

64 Bit Drivers - Windows 7

support@line6.com — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 21:10:16 GMT

I need a 64-Bit driver for Workbench/Variax USB

Variax 600 or Variax 700?

support@line6.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:38:09 GMT

Hello there, this is my first post!

I've been a little confused about which guitar to buy, the V600 or the V700 (electric models)?

The main difference between them is the different types of wood that each one uses? Because, as far as I'm concerned

I can't see any other big differences. Actually, I've tried out the V700 and it was very nice! I haven't been able yet to play

with a V600.

Please, any kind of help, comments, suggestions would be much appreciated!!!!

Variax high E string Dead

support@line6.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 06:52:40 GMT

I have a problem with my high E string. It sounds very dull and I am just wondering if anyone has experienced this and, if there is an easy fix. I am under warranty but, I just don't want to ship it off unless I have to.

Variax and POD X3 Live

support@line6.com — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 02:47:22 GMT

I can't load my Variax 700 on POD X3 Live? I think I need to reset the Variax or firmware but am not able to communicate with the X3 in order to use other Line6 software via USB.

How can I adjust individual string volume?

support@line6.com — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:47:22 GMT

I keep reading about using workbench to adjust individual string volume, but I cannot seem to find where in Workbench can I achieve that.

I am running Workbench using a POD X3 live to connect, and on a Mac (1.58-98). Guitar is a Variax 600.

Please help

Thanks in advance

HELP Variax 700

support@line6.com — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:32:05 GMT

I have an electric Variax 700. All of a sudden it begin to sound as if I were moving the selector switch. It does this on a constant basis. If I lift the models knob the guitar plays fine but without the ability to choose an instrument.

I tried to run "Line Monkey" and "Workbench", which I have used successfully many times, but got a "midi error". I tried this numerous times. So I took it to the closest "Authorized Repair Center. The guy didn't have a clue how to even "hook-up" the guitar to his computer so he could "reflash" it, nor did he have the minimal equipment to connect it or to diagnose the problem.

His answer was to order the main board and try that. It seems awfully sad that the only way I can get a part is to deal with someone who knows nothing more about my guitar than I do, if as much. I am not even sure that it needs this board. A couple of hundred dollars for nothing after paying Sixty-five dollars for an evaluation that he couldn't even do really hurts.

If anyone has a suggestion PLEASE HELP. The community has always been helpful, even when LIne 6 hasn't.

Earvana nut installation For Variax 700 electric

support@line6.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 01:25:51 GMT

I would like to intall the Earvann nut on the Variax 700 electric, but i don't know the difference between the "Perfect retro-fit nut for Gibson Guitars" or the "Gibson style drop-in shelf nut".

Both are the same price and come 1 5/8 1.672. Im thinking both will work but i can't find any information about the difference besides the two screws. Does anyone know or had experience with the two on the 700.

My goal is to have planet wave locking tuners, the Earvana Nut, and the Tremol-No,

Variax 700 guitar

support@line6.com — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 22:40:14 GMT

I have put on new strings ( DR 10 gage ) on my Electric Variax 700 and I am having trouble tuning it with my Spider 3 75 watt x2. I use my line 6 4 buttom stomp box pedal tuner and the signel to the box is blinking a lot and it makes it hard to tune it.

Problem number two is that when I am playing a lot of lead, the guitar make a banging noise through the amp right after some notes in the middle range. Do I have to use only line 6 strings or is there another brand that I can use? Question number three when I hook up to the computer plug to us the workbench it says that there is no unit hooked up to the computer. I use the power 110 to the wall some the guitar has power. Thank you , Bob Kinnaird

Workbench Interface doesn't "see" my guitars

support@line6.com — Wed, 27 May 2009 04:25:39 GMT

I have an older workbench interface that has been updated with the newest firmware. My computer iMAC also has the latest workbench update.

The software boots up fine and it communicates with the Workbench interface but the interface doesn't recognize my Variax. I have two, an older one and a new one. I tried 2 different cables; the one that came with the guitar and a plain ethernet cable and neither worked. The LED stayed red. I think its a bad interface although I have only used it maybe 4-5 times in the last 5 years. Anyone have an idea before I buy a new interface?

Thanks

Jeff Davang

Models on Variax 500 false ?

support@line6.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:11:18 GMT

First I apologize for my english, it is a disaster ...

I bought a “new” Variax 500 about 3 weeks. I tested of course all models to recognize their fidelity and I had doubts ... I felt a telecaster among Lester positions... I bought the workbench first to update the firmware and for testing.

I copied the presets from each model, one after the other, on the position CUSTOM1 and I compared the sounds: there are big differences between CUSTOM1 (which seems correct) and other positions for the same preset, but not for all?!?

I even deleted a preset position (Spank, Lester,…) by others to replicate finally the original preset, I have always the same differences ...

Has anyone experienced the same problems? Someone there found a solution?

Thank you for your help, Jo

Low E is 40% less loud than the other strings on my Var700. I need a replacement pickup.

support@line6.com — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 13:42:33 GMT

My 700 low E string has very low output. I need a replacement pickup. There is no service center in Kuwait and do not want to send the guitar to UK. I am a qualified electronics engineer and can solder in my sleep.I also dont care about the 4 months remaining warranty on the guitar. Where can I quickly get a single pickup? or maybe 2 so as to have a spare.

Problem with alternate tuning for Variax 600

support@line6.com — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:26:21 GMT

Hello,

I tried several alternate tuning (presets and self made) within the workbench tool, but the effect is that I always hear the original tuning along with the detuned sound.

I checked the tuning tips in your FAQ but neither the head phones nor adjusting the volume helps.

To reproduce this:

Hardware: POD X3, Variax 600 (electric guitar)

Start the Variax workbench tool and choose one of the custom models (eg. BM Lester).

I click on preset and choose an alternate tuning.

Now I hear two tones for every string like a 12string guitar although it is not!

Is there anything I forgot to configure?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Michael

Variax 700 with POD x3 live

support@line6.com — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:59:44 GMT

Hi supports,

I am using 700 with podx3 live

The problem is that 1. How to preset my guitar modelling in my POD X3// so that I can change it immediately in the stage.

2. When I am on stage , how is the usage of the "live out level" and "direct out ground life" button if I connect to a line 6 ampifer.

3.When I play in a band room with 700+x3 ,I step on the preset ,for example rank 3D, and then it will change my guitar model and also the guitar tone ..so strange....how to solve this problem ....I mean I can switch preset sound model without switching my variax modelling....

anyone can help me???

Thx

Paul

can you use light strings on a variax 700?

support@line6.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:57:37 GMT

i'd like to use slightly lighter strings than came on the variax acoustic that i tried out. can i use light strings or will that create problems?

thanks!

Variax 300 signal cuts off

support@line6.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:18:03 GMT

Hey guys,

Recently I got this problem with my variax. everytime I plug it in using the XPS, the signal keep getting cuts off.

It happens quite randomly. Sometimes it stays on for a long time(half an hour?). Sometimes the signal gets softer and then dies off.

The signal will be back if I unplug and plug back the TRS Cable to the Variax.

I've tried using different TRS cable but the problem still occur.

Any idea what's wrong with it?

thanks in advance,,,,

2 Variax 600s - 2 different problems!

support@line6.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 20:31:04 GMT

I have 2 separate Variax 600s. : ) Each one has a problem : (

The first is probably the more serious - At a particularly humid practice session, my strings cut out, pretty much one at a time. The following morning I reset the flash memory. This only partially worked - I got 4 strings working. So I went to work and hey presto all was back to normal when I returned. However, my A and D strings are still being temperamental - intermittently playing up by either dropping in volume or cutting out. I'm not sure if this is the piezos or not. Any advice would be good.

The second is a more simple problem I think. I recently purchased a second 600 (Used, but in great condition) It seems that the stereo cable socket on the guitar is not making a great contact with the cables. There seems to be some movement and potential loss of sound/power as a result. Can the socket be easily repaired or replaced.

I did call Line 6 in the UK re the first problem last week, and left contact details, but due to work commitments I'm finding it difficult to speak to anyone. So any help will be greatly appreciated.

Andy Doc

Hardshell Case for Variax 300

support@line6.com — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:51:09 GMT

WHAT does a person use - that has a Line 6 Variax 300 electric guitar - for a hardshell case?

Dead piezo my 300, where do I purchase new one

support@line6.com — Fri, 22 May 2009 10:42:34 GMT

I bought my Variaxe 300 In 2006, purely for recording purposes, and have enjoyed the novelty of it. unfortunately the 4th string has become dead, and wondering where I can purchase a new one. I must add that I did buy it from line 6 directly and I have completely lost all the info regarding registration etc. Its a bit difficult keeping track of one's arsenal of equipment and registration no's. Cheers!

Which settings to use in Workbench to recreate the Tele 72 Deluxe sound?

support@line6.com — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 21:40:07 GMT

Greetings,

I've recently bought the Workbench software for my Variax 600 and it's amazing! While playing around with it, I was trying to recreate the Tele 72 Deluxe sound. Hopefully someone can fill me in on some details. The guitar has Fender Wide Range Humbuckers with the volume pot valued at 1M ohm. I'm not sure what value the tone pot could be. It's been very difficult trying to find video clips of someone playing an ORIGINAL Tele 72 deluxe and use it as a reference. The reissue models do not have the original Wide Range Humbuckers. What settings (pickup to match the Wide Range pup and which 3 tele bodies) should I use in Workbench to emulate this guitar?

Thanks

G String not working. Two Authorized service centers have failed to fix it.

support@line6.com — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:54:57 GMT

I have a Variax 600 and the G String is not working. I have reflashed the software and it didn't fix it. I brought it 2 authorized service centers and they failed to fix it. The checked the connections and replace saddle for the G String. I guess they don't plug in the guitar to make sure there fixes worked. I'm 7 weeks into this problem and no closer to fixing it. Any ideas? Where do I go from here?

If I leave it plugged in long enough the g string will start working. Other than that it's a useless POS that I can't sell.

No sound from my variax acoustic

support@line6.com — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 04:22:46 GMT

I've just purchased a second hand variax acoustic off ebay and after plugging the guitar in using both my pod xtlive and also trying an acoustic amp (via trs) and changing various leads, I have no sound at all. the guitar is powering up (as indicated via knob light) and I was able to tune via pod xtlive. Any suggestions?

little black wired broken on my bridge

support@line6.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:20:21 GMT

here are, I have a small black wire to break on my bridge, is a variax 300 black. the problem is that i would like to have another of them to repair it except that when i call with the service with the customers and I am French-speaking.. but no french guys at line 6 customers service . here I takes a translator. .please help me !!!!

Yannick

Suggestions on making Variax 700 sound better

support@line6.com — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:53:51 GMT

One of the biggest reasons I decided to get a Variax 700 was for the live sound advantages but have never been happy with the modeled sounds. I have tried several different string brands and just cant seem to duplicate that sound that I get from my real acoustic guitar. If anyone has some suggestions that may give me the sound I am looking for (authentic acoustic) such as guitar settings, sound board settings. I realize that there a too many scenios of sound settings but am just looking to at least duplicate the sounds that are available on the line 6 sound bytes.

thanks.

Workbench 'no device connected' variax 300

support@line6.com — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:20:31 GMT

i have been trying everything for months now, my variax 300 wont connect to workbench says theres no device yet monkey says there is ive tried everything now and can not get through to the line 6 tech department it worked once after alot of fiddling downloading of drivers and such but then it just stopped working again. any ideas??

Can you get just electronics and saddles? (pedal steel idea!)

support@line6.com — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 20:12:18 GMT

I have a Variax 500 and have been very pleased with the range of tones (and the accuracy). I've had an idea brewing for a while but have not really worked on it as there seemed to be too many roadbocks - but maybe not.

I play 50's/60's Fender Pedal Steel guitars. These are 8-string instruments and quite different from modern steels; the older (and more commonly used) models have a seperate string-pulling "changer" and bridge (some bridges are bars; some rollers; some are replaced with Strat-type saddles).

My idea was to adapt the Variax technology into a pedal steel. It's been discussed by many steel players as a great idea, but most are playing modern guitars with integrated pulling-finger/changer elements that would not work as a piezo transducer.

On a Fender, though, I could easily machine a bridgeplate and use standard Variax piezo saddles.

The problem is getting parts. If I used a 300, 500 or 700 as a "donor" I'd be two saddles short (again, the only commonly-found steel models this would work with are 8-string, 1957-1964 long-scale Fender 400 and 1000 models), and it seems silly to destroy a Variax just for parts.

So what I have are really two questions:

1. Can piezo bridge saddles be acquired individually - if so, where and how (I need pricing to work up a budget.)

2. What is the availability of the Variax electronics alone?

There is plenty of room for routing/mounting of the electronics, and oddly Fender pedal steels are NOT collector's items - they are valuable only as players, so modifying one does not devalue a "vintage guitar". There are quite a few players waiting for someone to try this - I mod and service Fender steels so it kind of fell in my lap!

Thanks -

Jim

variax XPS footswitch

support@line6.com — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 18:36:12 GMT

where can i get a replacement XPS footswitch to power my variax 500 (it has stopped working and will not power up my variax....)

variax 700 acoustic tuning mode problem

support@line6.com — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 16:09:39 GMT

Hi I have a 700 acoustic that will not go into tuning mode. The indicator light does not change from green when pressed. Alternate tuning mode does work when using workbench and the indicator light does change to red when used in this manner.

I have have tried flashing the firmware. Has anyone else had a similar issue? If so could you give me a ballpark estimate on repair? The service centers I've talked to want $75 to give an estimate.

Thanks

Variax upgrade shopping list

support@line6.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 10:36:03 GMT

Hello

I am looking for a basic list of things that are good to upgrade for my variax 600. Basically, i was wondering first about the validity of some of these things.

For instance, i absolutely LOVE how my friends strat plays. Its just a standard american, but i can really tear up that neck, not so much on the vax. Would upgrading the neck of the vax improve that? If so, how far should i go in getting a new neck? They have some that can cost ALOT of money. What is a good neck, bang for buck, for the variax 600?

Are nut/tuner replacements really that great for the vax?

Im going to replace the saddles, graphtech of course.

any help on this would be greatly appreciated. It might be a little while before the check comes in so theres a little time

Replacement tuners and nut on Variax 700?

support@line6.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 20:39:12 GMT

Hi,

I'd like to replace the tuners and the nut of my Variax 700.

I want to replace the nut with a Graphtech 6000 and am considering replacing the tuners with Schaller lock tuners (2900) because they have the same screw position as the original Gotoh's. I already have the Schallers on a custom guitar of mine and they're very good.

Can anyone give me advise what's the best tuners for replacement and if the Graphtech is the correct type?

Tx, Harry

XPS Power Supply

support@line6.com — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:49:39 GMT

I would like to use a Pedal Power or some other supply to power my XPS on my pedal board. Is that OK?

How do I adjust action on Variax 300 acoustic steel?

support@line6.com — Mon, 25 May 2009 08:22:12 GMT

The action on my new Variax 300 acoustic steel is a bit high. I was hoping I could shave a little off the bottom of the saddle but the piezo pickup is attached to the saddle in a metal sleeve.

My guess is I could simply pull this off but I was a bit nervous about trying that on a brand new instrument. I had already had to reseat the saddle piece because the 6th string was obviously not making contact with the piezo strip.

No signal through the amp or the tuner. I could see that the saddle was leaning forward slightly so I physically held it upright while I re-tensioned the strings and it worked fine.

So - can I pull the metal sleeve away from the bottom of the saddle and shave the bottom of the saddle? I have done this before and usually manage to get a good flat bottom edge. But if I did screw up - is the saddle piece a standard compensated acoustic saddle piece such as I might find in a bigger music store?

Variax 700 Piezo replacement in HK

support@line6.com — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 03:02:17 GMT

Hi,

One of the piezo sensor was dead (It was Low E and I've interchange with the A strings to confirm the piezo was dead) I've tried to call the dealer in HK they told me only one piezo sensor cost US$50 already, and they don't know the delivery time for it and I have wait few months for fixing the guitar after the piezo was arrived. Now the Variax just hanged on the rack but it's useless. Anyone know I could buy the piezo sensor in much lower cost with international air mail / registered mail services? I've call the dealer in HK for the L.R. Baggs they use sell the whole X-bridge set but not only one piezo sensor.

Variax 600 tremolo

support@line6.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:02:48 GMT

Hello! I own and use a Variax 600 extensively (in addition to other Line 6 gear). I've been having a problem with using the tremolo and keeping the guitar in tune. I finally got a Hipshot Tremsetter, which is installed properly, but to no avail Finally took the bridge apart and found the problem. I've eliminated the nut as the problem, BTW. The knife edges on the bridge are ruined, and so is the fulcrum/bridge post. Is there any way I can purchase parts to fix this? Right now, the only way for me to play this guitar is without the tremolo arm. Thanks.

Lefty variax

support@line6.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:30:27 GMT

Can you produce a lefty Variax 700 and a lefty Acoustic Variax, via a custom order, for me?

RJ45 cable stuck

support@line6.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 22:43:32 GMT

Hi there - I have installed workbench and connected my V600 to the PC using the supplied cable. Tonight, when I went to change the strings on the guitar, the cable got stuck and will not come out. Has anyone else experienced this? I pushed the tab with a screwdriver pretty hard and nothing. It relatches when I push it back in. Let me know if anyone has seen this before.

Otherwise, I'll forever carry around a USB cable on the guitar!

Thanks

Dave

good book to read

support@line6.com — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:19:52 GMT

this is a real good book if you want to do your own setups and repairs.

Variax Les Paul Transplant Help

support@line6.com — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 05:21:57 GMT

Hi I am wanting to do a les paul transplant but want to use a 3 way switch instead of the 5 way to keep it looking original I know I will lose 2 positions. What 3 way switch will work for this the les paul switch will not work because the middle position turns position one and two on?

Variax lefty 500 will not completely reset

support@line6.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:13:49 GMT

My Variax was recently repaired. The module had been blown due to incorrect voltage, which incidently took 5 months here in Canada. I have started using Workbench with the USB connector with an laptop using XP. I played around with settings and noticed some are not in the right location. For example. Spank edit bank sounds are on T-Model setting, Lester is on both Spank and Lester settings, I can only get the Res sounds when I am switching from Custom 2 to Reso. If I dial from Acoustic to Reso, the guitar will stay in Acoustic setting. I have followed the factory resetas laid out in the online instructions but I do not get a full reset.

Thank you,

Michael Madej mikemadej@yahoo.com

Variax 700 Tele Neck selector 4 very dull sounding?

support@line6.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 20:45:15 GMT

Hello,

I've just received a new Variax 700 and noticed that the Tele patch 4th position (Neck) is sounding very dull/bassy?

Is this normal? All other patches sound brighter and don't have this issue. I can place another pickup in this position and store this as default but was just curious if this is normal?

Tx, Harry

Variax Power Problems

support@line6.com — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:33:19 GMT

I really want to use my Variax on an upcoming gig, but it's been extremely unreliable. I've been using it in the studio only because if it "acts up" I can always just redo the take.

When I plug it into my PODxt Live with a Variax cable, it usually works, but occasionally loses power for a second then comes back to life. During that second the POD freaks out and freezes, rendering all controls useless until I disconnect and reconnect the Variax.
I have tried many different cables with the same result.

When I use the power supply, I get the symptoms of a dead battery. I found this on the FAQ of L6:
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.

Exact same symptom, but I'm not using any batteries.

And when I use batteries, it's hit and miss. Sometimes it works fine, but other times it'll play for about 5 seconds and then go dead. It comes back to life every time I plug it in, but it only lasts for about 5 seconds.

I believe all of these symptoms stem from the same problem.
Any ideas?
Anyone?
Please? (and thank you)

Variax 700 Gig Bag & power/cables ?

support@line6.com — Mon, 25 May 2009 09:02:11 GMT

Hi - I have just purchased an ex-demo Variax 700 Acoustic. I got a great price but in part that was because the original gigbag and XPS footswitch were missing. Not a major problem as I already own a Vetta ii and a Variax 700 electric and I don't gig so on the rare occasion when I need to transport an instrument the one bag and footswitch I have would suffice. However would be great to complete the set but I can't locate anywhere on the Line 6 site replacement gig bags and footswitches. Any one know how to go about this ? Regards, Luke

Variax upgradable?

support@line6.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:22:28 GMT

I am curious to know if you have a Variax 300 or 500 is there anyway to upgrade the bridge to include a tremelo?

Can't open Workbench

support@line6.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 18:16:46 GMT

Hey - bought my Variax and workbench couple of years ago - just bought a Toneport, and have moved to Macbook. Hqve freshly installed all gear including the Toneport. When I reinstalled my workbench cd, it won't let me open it as it says "Another Line 6 application is in use" - which it isn't. I have tried uninstalling and reinstalling, shutting down, have checked the system to ensure all apps are closed...? Any ideas what I'm missing?

Thanks, Lance

variax usb driver vista 64

support@line6.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:40:52 GMT

Installed workbench, monkey from download install appeared to go fine, software then hardware as instructed, vista found drivers no probs said device installed ok, then workbench asked for restart now asking which device I am using, clicked on the workbench interface but it can't find it. Help.

I have Vista 64 bit.

Problemas con la Variax

support@line6.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 21:49:27 GMT

Hola, tengo mi Variax 300 hace casi un año 1/2, despues de 5 meses que la compre, esta comenzó a tener problemas, se cambian solo los modelos de guitarra, o se comienza a cambiar rapidamente un sonido, haciendo imposible tocar, tengo que desconectar la guitarra y volver a conectarla para que funcione bien por un cierto tiempo....

no se si a alguien mas le pasó lo mismo o fui yo el de la mala suerte...

Si alguien sabe como se arregle esto avisenme a cortes.roberto@gmail.com

Variax 700 String Volumes

support@line6.com — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:28:56 GMT

The B and the high E string are considerably more quiet than the other strings. Can this be remedied?0

Used Variax guitar - any condition accepted

support@line6.com — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 12:15:36 GMT

Hi there,

any idea where I could get a used Variax as cheap as possible for ripping out her electronics for a transplant. The Variax canbe in any condition as long as all the electronics are without error.

Can you recommend any webpages (except eBay and craigslist) where I could look for this (or does anybody here have one he or she'd like to sell?)?

Thanks,

Karin

Variax 300 Nylon - Steel sounds?

support@line6.com — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 06:11:48 GMT

Is it possible to use variax workbench to load a variax 300 nylon with the sounds of stell string electric and acoustic guitars?

Variaxe 300 Power Adaptor

support@line6.com — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:44:09 GMT

I have just bought a used variaxe 300 from dealer. The guitar is in good condition and includes the original XPS mini and TRS cable, however the original power adaptor is missing. The dealer included a universal regulator which operates on 230v, 50hz AC input, but outputs 9v 650ma DC. Although the unit powers the Variaxe with seemingly no problems, I have since checked the specification of the original Line 6 px2 adaptor and this outputs 9v 2000ma AC. Will I damage the XPS if I continue to use the non-original power adaptor. I also found a post on the Line 6 Forum that says the XPS can actually be powered using a DC output, but I am a little confused.

Variax 300 Electric

support@line6.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 11:37:31 GMT

Is the Variax 300 end of life? I see that the product is no longer displayed on the Products page of the Line 6 website, only the 600 and 700.

The reason I ask is that I am looking to purchase a Variax 300 electric and pod xt new here in NZ.

The Variax 300 is still available, but my fear is if the product is withdrawn from the market, what will the ongoing support be like?

If it is end of life, was there a reason for this (i.e. high product failures)?.

Is there a model coming out that will replace the 300?

How long is the shelf life of the 600 and 700 models, are they going to be phased out soon as well?

Thanks for your help.

Variax 700TR (electric) Acoustic sounds...

support@line6.com — Mon, 18 May 2009 04:58:03 GMT

Why do my acoustic sounds sound nothing like the demo's on the line 6 site?

They sound muffled and lifeless. Almost like a clean sound with very little top end.

Im using the XLR straight into an mbox 2 with Pro Tools 8. Also sounds the same going into podxt either with or without an amp chosen. I'm annoyed because it's the only reason I bought the guitar haha!

Cheers guys

Passive PUPS in a 700

support@line6.com — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 21:17:36 GMT

I've seen a lot of forums and articles about transplanting the variax electronics into other bodies, but I've found it odd that nobody talks about installing some form of passive pickups in a variax 700. Is this possible? If no, why not?

Thanks,

Caleb

Using a Variax through a PA and an amp

support@line6.com — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:03:23 GMT

I run my Variax 600 through a POD XT Live, which also powers the guitar, and into an Peavey Bandit. I'd like to run the acoustic sounds direct into a PA. Can I use the jack imput to go direct from the guitar to the PA, with the other sounds going into the backine Peavey? Will I have to use the special footswitch/power unit that came with the Variax get the best sounds, or will this blow the electrics in the guitar? Any help advice gratefully recieved.

Alternate tunings with 700 acoustic

support@line6.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:22:49 GMT

Is it possible to use workbench to create an alternate tuning in the main slot (green light position) on the guitar? I know I can overwrite the model with workbench. For example, I don't use the Shamisen, so I replaced it with another Dread model, but I want it in open G and open E. Is there a way to do this, or would I end up with the Shamisen slot occupied with Dread Standard and Dread open G, and then have to use the Mandola slot for Dread Standard and Dread open E? (I know those tunings are available as presets with the sliders, but those are impractical for live performances.)

The second question, is can I have a different model in the main and alternate slot for the same model position? For example, can I have the Shamisen slot occupied by Dread and Parlor?

Variax 300, POD X3 Live, and Workbench

support@line6.com — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:22:08 GMT

I own a POD X3 Live and am considering buying a used Variax 300 guitar. The 300 does not come with the Variax Workbench hardware (the USB/VDI box).

When I connect the Variax 300 to the X3L using the VDI cable, will I be able to download firmware updates using Line 6 Monkey, and also be able to use the Workbench software, through the X3L rather than through the Workbench hardware?

Variax 700 neck on 300

support@line6.com — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 20:12:52 GMT

I want to change the neck on my Variax 300 for a more PRS / Gibson profile.

Will the 700 neck fit the 300, or if not any thoughts on what else I could use ?

On that note - Anyone want to sell me a neck ?

Choppy/broken sound with Variax 705 bass

support@line6.com — Sun, 24 May 2009 10:11:12 GMT

Hi there

Have been experiencing an intermittent problem with my 705 bass.

On certain models the sound becomes choppy or broken up. It seems to happen randomly, and can occur at any point within a note or phrase, and on any string. If, for example, I play an open A and just let it ring it may be fine, or it may drop out and get chopped up so that it sounds like morse code. Kinda like the sound of a dirty pot or scratchy lead.

Double checked all leads and they seem fine, doesn't seem to be any issue with the power module, amps have been checked and are fine.

This bass is used as my daily workhorse, so the sooner I find a lasting solution the better...

Haven't tried factory resets on the models that are affected, but I hadn't changed them anyway so discounted this as a solution.

Any help greatly appreciated.

Tom

Why can't LINE 6 get pick-ups to my service center ???????

support@line6.com — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:45:29 GMT

I've had my 300 in the authorized repair shop for over 3 weeks. The repair guy is still waiting for my pick-ups to arrive. He finally got an order on Thursday from Line 6 ... NO pickups. He called and the guy he talked to in shipping seemed quite confused but promised to get them out 'right away'. This morning the tech tried to call line6 but was on hold forever and had to hang up. He promised me that he'd try again when the line6 folks get back from lunch.

I've been looking at getting a 700 and a POD, but this kind of stuff scares the hell out of me. What's UP? I want my D@mn guitar back!!!!! Seriously, this is really really lousy. No wonder the guys at the music stores are so down on line6.

Here's an advertising slogan for y'all. "The Best Guitar that you'll never be able to use!!" </rant>

Pickup saddle replacement

support@line6.com — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 21:53:54 GMT

Hi, I live in Curitiba, Brazil. I´ve recently bought a Variax Acoustic 700 from another person. The saddle under the 6th string was lost. I haven´t found any tecnical assistence here. I tried to contact Habro music, but they said they could´t help me. Please, what can I do to replace this saddle? Is there a place where I can buy it? I´m realy desperate because I need this guitar to do my job.

Thanks for your attention!

Leandro Guimarães

55 41 3247-7879

55 41 9901-0267

leandroguita@hotmail.com

Rua Prof. Algacyr Munhoz Mader, 1925 - b4 a23

81.310-020 Curitiba - PR

Brazil

I have a Variax 700 acoustic and cannot get the octive shift to work.

support@line6.com — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 20:06:06 GMT

Hello,

I have a Variax 700 acoustic and cannot get the octive shift to work. I've followed the page on the Line 6 site but nothing seems to work. Any help would be appreciated.

Norm

low volume on the B string

support@line6.com — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 21:07:22 GMT

Hi all,

I just bought a variax 300 on ebay. It turns out that the volume on the b string is quite low. It's there but it's maybe half or less of the volume of the other strings. I'm guessing from what I've read that it's a defective piezo on that string. The seller has offered to help pay to fix it. FYI - I've updated the firmware. I was hoping that there was some way to adjust the volume of each string in workbench but I see it's only a global thing.

1. How much is it likely to cost me to fix the one pickup?

2. I'm not afraid to fix it myself if the cost is much different. Where can I get a replacement pickup?

3. Is there any way to adjust the volume of individual strings? I guess I should have asked this one first.

It seems like it's going to be a good axe but it's pretty much useless as is.

Thanks!!!

Need a replacement piezo bridge saddle for my Variax 300.

support@line6.com — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:11:57 GMT

Hey guys,

I've owned several Variax guitars, two 300s, a 700 electric and two 700 acoustics and loved them all.

My current Variax 300 has a bad piezo saddle on the 2nd string (b string). The output is much lower than all the other strings.

This happened to my electric 700 and I sent to a repair shop hours from here to get it fixed.

This was years ago and I'd much rather just put the element in myself. Two repair centers have already

told me it's just silly to pack up the guitar and ship it for a fix like this. And I was also told that it made no sense to ship a part that small to them and then me.

This guitar is not under warranty and I've done piezo installs on several of my other non Variax guitars,

so if you could please sell me one bridge saddle (or even a few for backup), that would be great.

Thank you very much for your help.

I love all of your products and see them creeping into more and more of my music endeavers.

-MonkeyFingers

Need a replacement

support@line6.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:38:06 GMT

I have to say that recently I have emailed Line 6 with another problem I have had with my Variax 600. Once again, just as approx 8 mos ago, my guitar is cutting out on me. Very much in a similar fashion to what it had in the past. I had sent it back to Line 6 and they appeared to fix it for a brief period of time. They explained that they had to replace the entire "electrical coffin." Well it's happening again. After reading an excerpt sent to me from another Variax owner, and here it is:

On the old forum there were dozens of posts like this.

Once you have established it isn't the cord/lead or the batteries and if the guitar gradually loses volume or goes faint or eventually just cuts out, I can assure you that the problem is a very old one that can only really be rectified by the changeout of the "Coffin Assembly" - which is in effect the entire "electronics".

Line 6 won't tell us why the coffin assembly fails and they won't admit/agree that there is a "design fault".

So.... the only thing you can do is to send it back and get them to change the coffin assembly again.

I know all this to be fact because I have lived with it myself!

One thing that really worries me now and is the reason why I might just move my Variax on quite soon... is that this fault is far more prevelant than Line 6 would like us to believe and because the only way to sort out the fault is to change the full coffin assembly, then eventually I am fearing that;-

(a) they will run out of spare coffin assemblies
(b) decide when VAX2 comes out to no longer manufacture new VAX1 electronics

therefore, we will all be left with cutting out variaxes.

After reading what this individual had written to me, I would like very much to send my guitar back and I don't think I should have to pay the shipping, either. After all, this is your design flaw and all of us purchased these instruments in good faith. I could mention dozens of friends of mine that also play instruments-none of which continue to have these issues. I simply cannot rely on this instrument. Try standing up on stage during a gig and have this happen to you. It ruins the evening and tends to dock the pay. Far worse, it tends to really ruin your reputation as a band. Having said this, please send me another guitar. Please let me know how you plan to rectify the situation.

Thanks so much,

Brian Rheaume

Upload Nylon string model to 600-700 via Workbench - possible?

support@line6.com — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:19:02 GMT

The title pretty much says it - is it possible to upload a Nylon string patch to a Variax 600 or 700 via Workbench? Or any other way? This would seem like a straightforward firmware issue - if the path exists.

This is the one issue that has prevented me from pulling the trigger on a Variax purchase - if there were a way to do it, I would replace the Danelectro in the Reso models with a nylon string patch in a heatrbeat.

My Variax 600

support@line6.com — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:45:53 GMT

Can I send my Variax in to be refurbished?

I used a friends Korean model for almost two years before I bought them with no problem.Was there a significant change in parts between the two factorys?

This is the 2nd chinese 600 one I've owned and I had the same problem with the last one.

I have had my Variax less then two years and am having trouble with the lower strings not being as loud as the rest and this week the Low E is cutting out and distorting.

Is there someone that could upgrade the piezo saddles so I don't have to get it serviced so often?

I would happily pay for better parts and a pro wiring / soldering job.Any suggestions?

Thanks

John Seguin

Planet Waves Auto-Trim vs Fender/Schaller Locking Machine Heads?

support@line6.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:34:33 GMT

I just bought a Variax 600 last night and i've been playing 5 hours straight now! amazing guitar!..

One problem though is that i keep going out of tune, so i was just wondering if a planet waves auto-trim or a fender delux schaller locking machine heads would do the trip and keep my guitar in tune?

I'm not even sure if they would fit on my Variax without any drilling involved or any serious altering to my baby.

So i'll be very happy if you guys reply back; or If you have a better solution than mine please post it on.

Thanks

XPS footswitch won't work with variax 700 acoustic?

support@line6.com — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:47:40 GMT

Hello all,

I recently bought a variax 700 acoustic, and my friend didn't have the XPS footswitch (footswitch that powers guitar/ allows you to switch between 1/4 and XLR) so I bought one with a xp-2 power supply. However, when I plug the variax in the power indicator on the left only flashes red once when you connect the guitar, the green LED on the left is lit and changes from 1/4 to XLR when you stomp on the switch. So this gives me the feeling that the box is not powering my variax because my batteries died a couple times since getting the guitar while everything was plugged in and the power indicator light does not ever stay a color (flashes once). The guitar will still play when plugged into the box but like i said i am positive the box is not powering my guitar. Would this be because I am not using the TRS stereo cable? Any idea's folks?

thanks,

Brett

Variax 300 Pickguard Buzzing

support@line6.com — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 01:54:23 GMT

I noticed lately that my variax 300 pickguard makes a horrible buzzing sound by resonating with the low strings. The screws are already tight and the buzzing happens right where the sound hole would be in an acoustic which is away from any screw that would make a difference. Do I have to put something under the pickguard to dampen it?

Does ANYTHING affect the tone?

support@line6.com — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:48:24 GMT

Hi there,

I've just got a an electric 700 and wondered if anything affected the tone? I've put a set of 10s on it, but would 11s give a fuller tone as in a normal electric guitar? If I changed the neck, say for a Warmoth one in rosewood, would that make a difference? Or does the fact that the piezos take the vibration straight from the string mean that these things don't really make any difference to the tone?

Anyone with any thoughts, I'd be grateful!

Work bench /variax 500

support@line6.com — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:35:40 GMT

I have just purchased Workbench and upon following all the set up questions the software and the guitar dont seem to marry up.

In the set up you are asked to select the Line 6 device and only xt options are there.

Connecting is similar with no options for the variax - if you then ask it to connect using MIDI cables which is the only other option as Microsoft sw synth. it does not detect any midi cables.

How do I get them to talk to one another! Please note I am no computer buff! I am running XP with all the necessary stuff. I am connected up correctly using the right cables.

I have tried removing and re installing the software but majes no difference.

Is it me ?

Replacing frets on Variax?

support@line6.com — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 21:03:23 GMT

Hi everybody,

did anybody replaced the frets on the Variax electric? I have the Variax 700 and comparing to my other guitar, the Epiphone Riviera, I feel much incomfortable when playing. The Epi has more flatter frets than Variax and sliding between frets and all the finger moves are much more comfortable than playing Variax which has more rounded frets. I love the Variax in all its aspects but the frets. Can the replacement help? Is there some sort of frets that fits best this guitar?

Thanks for answers,

Stepan

Variax 705 with CAT 5 Cable?

support@line6.com — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:51:07 GMT

When I got my 705 bass a couple of years ago, I called Line 6 to inquire, among other things, if I could use a generic CAT 5 cable to connect it to my Bass POD XT Live. I was told I could, but recently found elsewhere on this site that may cause damage to the connector jack in my bass (and maybe in my POD too?) So far, I haven't had any trouble, but it's seen mainly home studio use and hasn't been moved much as in live gig settings. Anyone have any experience with a CAT 5 cable causing problems, and if so anything I should specifically be on the lookout for until I get a Line 6 cable?

Thanks!

is registration important for used variax instruments?

support@line6.com — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:46:28 GMT

i've several variax instruments, and only 1 was purchased new... the others were used, but from music stores... i've not registered the used ones, i didn't know i could... should I? what does it mean?

if i choose to, how?

Various Variax 705 Issues

support@line6.com — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 03:33:48 GMT

I've had my 705 for close to three years now, bought it brand new, so I think I know mine pretty well, but I've had two consistent problems that I've sought help with in these forums without much success, and now there are some intereting new wrinkles to add to the mix.

1. The main original problem was that all of the bass models have a very transient (maybe 50-60 ms) non-pitched artifact, a thud at the attack of each note. More noticeable on the lower two strings, most obvious on the Fender models. Effected through the Bass POD XT Live it was less noticeable, but I don't want to always have to use effects!

2. On the synth models, the "D" on the 7th fret of the G string has a much faster decay than any other place on the next. Like a dead stop after 2 seconds. The fast decay is less on the two adjacent frets above and below, but still there. Beyond that on the G string, the other notes play fine. The same pitch, D, on the 12th fret of the D string plays fine.

In trying to deal with these problems, I made sure I updated all the software/firmware, tried different strings, eventually went so far as to get all the guts replaced while it was still under warrantee. Nothing helped. I've wanted to try other bass Variaxes to see if mine was some weird anomaly, but so far haven't found anyone else with one to try. Other users do *not* report these particualr problems.

On a whim, I recently restrung my bass from E to C. Now, most of the models sound much better, and there's even more timbral variety among the bass models! The transient thud is only somewhat noticeable on the Fender models, and mostly nonexistent on the others. I should point out that I used *old* strings from one of my six string basses, so I would have expected that the duller strings might have increased the thud, but noooo...

The synth mystery also deepens. I had thought I had a dead spot on the neck around the 7th fret of the top, G, string in playing the fast-decaying D on the 7th fret. Now restrung E to C, the same pitch, D on the 7th fret of the G string, still sounds dull and decays just as fast, even though the string has been physically displaced one position lower, while the G on the C string sounds fine, the same position on the 7th fret where the D used to be! So, it must be something weird with the electronics. Above the 17th fret, the synth models don't track at all, but I guess that's to be expected when it's above the range they'd usually be asked to see. The regular bass models track fine up in that register (and sustain fine on the 7th fret) except for the 8 & 12 strings.

I just went into string calibration mode and reset the volume of the now 2nd string G string, increasing it some even though in the regular bass models the note is not dead and the string sounded balanced with the others through the dry piezo. The D on the 7th fret still sucks. I rest the volume back to center detent.

3. New problem. Restrung E to C, for no apparant reason and at completely random times, sometimes the pitch on the regular bass models is not tracked correctly, that is, I notice that when playing octaves, they are sometimes out of tune. If I stop and play the out of tune note harder, after a few tries it finds the right pitch again. This can happen even right after I've tuned the bass through the POD XT Live.

All in all, this is very frustrating. I really *want* to love my Variax. When it behaves reasonably well, it's still a lot of fun to play, but I mostly play it at home by myself, do some recording with it, and occasionally use it at various basement jams, but I don't trust it enough to ever gig with it. Got any ideas that might help any of this?

4. Not a problem, just a question. Now that I've been in calibration mode and heard the dry piezo sound, I liked it, and wonder if there's a way to access that for performance use? I know that 's not what the Variax wa intended for, but at least that' sone sound I could use that should not present any unpleasant surprises.

Thanks!

Variax 300 Faulty

support@line6.com — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 10:12:09 GMT

i have recently purchased 3 variax guitars and a Pod XT Live pedal.

the last variax i purchased that was a 300 model has proven to be faulty in that it does not power correctly through the digital cable from my xt live.

When the digital cable is connected the variax cuts out if any of the knobs are adjusted including the volume or tone.
It also locks the xt live up and prevents me from changing any presets.
I bought this guitar with the intention of swapping the electronics out to another guitar and have dismantled the unit to measure the cavity and check the electronics.
this being the case my local Line 6 service center in Melbourne Australia has refused to honor the warranty on this unit even though it is new and was faulty upon purchase.
I can provide proof of purchase if need be from Billy Hydes music center in Melbourne.

Your help in this matter is appreciated

Optimal string volumes

support@line6.com — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 20:08:36 GMT

Hi Guys,

I'd like to ensure that the individual string volumes on my Vax transplants are at their optimal level. Both have graphtech bridges and I'm aware that the common perception is that their output is hotter than the Bagg's pickups, but I'm not sure how to gauge the volume adjustment.

Does anyone have a best practice for knowing when to stop adjusting the string volumes? Is there an audible or visual way to tell if a particular string is clipping the input of the Vax? I think once I get one string, then the rest could probably be done by ear, but I'd like to ensure the overall volume of the strings aren't too loud.

Cheers all.

Elixir nanoweb vs polyweb on Variax 700 electric

support@line6.com — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 03:46:59 GMT

Hi all, I just bought a set of Elixir Nanoweb strings for my variax 700. and i have to say i really like the feel of the strings.

but they do sound hoter than i expected. to me the Variax sounds alittle hot with regular strings but with with the nanoweb's it's almost tincanish...

anyway was wondering if anyone has tried or compared the polyweb's they are advertised to be not as hot.

also do they have the same feel as the nanowebs? as i mentioned i really liked the feel of the coated strings and they are supposed to last longer than other strings.

anyway any info will help...

guitarspa@att.net

support@line6.com — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 20:20:05 GMT

my variax is not seen by my computer, yesterday I reinstalled workbench and it worked great, today it daesn't work. is there an issue with vista 64

Does the Variax digital cable (RJ-45) work with some of the Line6 foot controllers?

support@line6.com — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 22:41:15 GMT

I'm reading about the probs of the x3 live regarding its USB audio interface. Hence I'm considering to buy the x3 (not live, not pro). Is it possible to use the Variax controlling capabilities of the x3 live using the Variax digital cable (RJ-45) with the x3 and a foot controller? If yes, which foot controller?

Karin

Error when opening workbench.

support@line6.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 03:43:47 GMT

Just donloaded and installed.

An exception was caught.

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V
App info: Variax Workbench 1.50 release - build 86 - Thu Apr 6 15:59:50 PDT 2006
Date: 4/8/09 10:35 PM
In thread: Thread[main,5,main]
OS: Windows Vista (6.0 x86)
Java VM Version: 1.6.0_10-rc

Stack trace:

java.lang.UnsatisfiedLinkError: cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash()V
at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.nativeHideSplash(Native Method)
at cmn.l6java.utils.L6EmbeddedUtils.HideLauncherSplash(L6EmbeddedUtils.java:39)
at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.Start(L6EditorApp.java:459)
at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp.access$200(L6EditorApp.java:42)
at line6editbase.app.L6EditorApp$L6ELauncherBootstrap.OnLaunch(L6EditorApp.java:310)
at cmn.l6java.app.L6App.Launch(L6App.java:194)

USB Workbench problems

support@line6.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:41:41 GMT

I have a Variax 600, and I've just taken delivery of Workbench with the USB interface.

I've downloaded and installed the latest versions of Workbench (1.58) and Line 6 Monkey (1.27)

I've tried installing on both of my computers with the same result. The computers are:

Asus Motherboard with 8 USB2 ports on board, an AMD Phenom 8650 triple-core processor, running at 2.3 GHz, and 2 GB RAM. O/S is XP32
MSI Motherboard with 6 USB2 ports on board, Athlon 64 X2 dual-core processor running at 2.98 GHz, and 2 GB of RAM. O/S is Vista32

There are two problems, which I imagine are connected, and they show up identically on both computers.

Workbench correctly identifies that I have a Variax 300/600, connects fine, uploads the setting from the guitar. It even lets me create a backup bundle. But, as soon as I try to do anything else (like actually use the Workbench), it reports that the guitar has been disconnected - sometimes it then reconnects spontaneously, others it will reconnect if I remove power from the guitar and then re-connect it. On one occasion it let me modify one of the guitar models, but when I tried to download it to the guitar, it came up with a message: "Midi Timed out".
Line 6 Monkey informs me that I need to update the USB Firmware from 1.0 to 1.03. It downloads the update, warns me not to do change any connections and start the process of writing - then it says that it can't update because the downloaded file is corrupt "try again", if I try again, I either get the same message, or one that tells me that it can't update because "the memory is locked".

In each case I connect the Variax to the footswitch which is connected to the power outlet (I never use batteries). The network lead is connected from the guitar to the USB interface, and the USB interface is connected directly to one of the on-board USB2 ports (I've tried it on every port on both machines).

is there a fix for the variax workbench to run on my 64 bit vista os?

support@line6.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:51:15 GMT

is there a fix yet so my variax workbench will work with my vista home premium 64 bit os

Variax????

support@line6.com — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 12:20:39 GMT

Hello everybody,

I'm planning on buying a Variax. Any advice? Any recommendations?

Variax 600 or Variax 700? How's the reliability of the Variaxes anyway?

And what about the palmmuting-issue I read about here and there?

I really like the look of the one visible in some of the promo videos. It's a 700 as far as I can see, with a rosewood fret board and a black body, but it has a white pearl-shell pick guard similar in shape with the 600 version.

I don't see it with the available models. can anybody tell which one it is?

By the way, does the 700 model have a bold-on or a glued-on body?

Thanks for reactions,

Rohaya

Variax 300 and workbench

support@line6.com — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:52:29 GMT

When I try to use an alternate tuning some of the strings go out of tune. I've read of other people having this problem but never found the

final resolution. After reading about it,and just for grins, I plugged my headphones into my amp when experiencing this problem and sure enough

with the headphones on the strings are in tune. It's weird because it wouldn't do this when I first got my Variax but it always happens now.

I've re-loaded the firmware and even replaced the strings. Can the feedback from the amp be interfereing with the electronics?

Where Can I Get Pizo Replacements ?

support@line6.com — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:54:52 GMT

I want to change my own pizos. Where do I get them from ? Are they wholesale ?

Replacement neck for Variax 700?

support@line6.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:22:55 GMT

Does anyone know if Warmoth stock necks (e.g. strat style) will fit a Variax 700? Has anyone done this with their Variax 700, and if so, what were the results? I've tried asking Warmoth, but they wouldn't tell me, only said that their necks are compatible with the 300 and 500.

If anyone knows, I'd be grateful.

Thanks in advance!

Spider

Technical question

support@line6.com — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:42:43 GMT

Hi there.

I am having a problem wiht my Variax. It is modified and the variax 1/4" jack is shared with nagnetic pickups. I think it got a jolt when I cam to the end of the cable as the cable end is bent. The 1/4" works fine for the magnetic pickups but it frequnetly cuts out and has to be fiddled with in order to work for the variax. Think this is osmething as simple as a wire short? Any suggestions?

Rotary knob kills sound...... HELP!!!!

support@line6.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:42:30 GMT

Hi,

I need some assistance with my Variax 500. I put it away and didn't use it for a good few months then I suddenly needed it for a gig and took it without giving it a once over.

At the soundcheck all i got was that muffled/dead sound you get when the battery was dead, which is fair enough, I replaced the battery.

Still I got nothing and had to play the entire gig with my amp on 11 just to get any sound out of it at all (all the way through the gig i was expecting it to burst into life, killing my amp and deafening me, that didn't happen though!)

I've since found out that if i plug in a battery and play it through an amp like a regular guitar all I get is that 'switched off' sound but if i play it through my PodXt with the data cable it's fine.

It's fine as long as I choose the settings for the Variax *through* the Pod. If I do that then I have all the Variax voices, they all work and they all sound great. If, however, I try to change voice through the rotary switch then it goes back to the default 'switched off' sound until i choose another through the Pod.....

Anyone ever heard anything like this before???

Help me!

cheers

Variax 300 String bending issues

support@line6.com — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:02:16 GMT

Hi:

When I bend a string on my variax 300 electric the string will go out of tune. If I press the string between the nut; the string goes back into to correct tuning.

How do I correct this problem?

Graphite nut?

Nut grease?

Other?

Regards,

John

Variax 600 - 12 string model switches to 6 string model randomly

support@line6.com — Sat, 23 May 2009 23:28:36 GMT

On my Variax 600 both acoustic 12 string models do not work sometimes. They sound like the same guitar but with only 6 strings. I can't really find a way to fix it. Sometimes switching to different models or power cycling it fixes it.

My New Used Bass Variax

support@line6.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:12:20 GMT

Hello,

I recently acquired a Bass Variax 700 on ebay. I am having some trouble where it won't remain on the Red selection with certain model select settings. It does stay on Red with the other model select settings. Unless I want it to be Green that is, ahem. Unfortunately there isn't a Line 6 service center even remotely nearby and I am wondering what I should do. I can't return it, despite the fact that it certainly wasn't in the advertised "works perfectly" condition I had been led to believe, so I need to find out my repair option. I would also like to be able to register it, if at all possible. I can't seem to open a ticket, and I have no open tickets, so this is my only available option. Thanks.

My Variax 300 sputtering sounds -- how much will fix cost?

support@line6.com — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:50:01 GMT

newmans@ufl.edu

My Variax 300 has an intermitent problem that is getting worse! It sounds like it is sputtering. Maybe it is actually cutting in and out at a fast rate. Restarting my X3 Live sometimes fixes it for a short time. Sometimes it sounds like ghost notes in a different model and I think the volume sometimes fades as well. I have noticed similar occasional problems during the life of the guitar but it is now getting increaseingly worse to the point I can't depend on it live. It's way out of warranty. Reading posts to the forum make me think it might be a cofin box problem.

Can someone give me a ballpark estimate for the cost to have a servie center fix it? And will the repair be warranteed?

Will I get a better fix by sending it direct to Line 6?

I'm in central Florida -- so if someone has a service center nearby that they can recomend, please tell me about it.

If it will cost too much I guess I will try shielding the cofin with electrical tape like I've read about.

Any other suggestions?

Thanks, Jaimz

newmans@ufl.edu

Variax faultey pickup selector

support@line6.com — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:16:30 GMT

Hey

I have only had my Variax 600 for a few weeks and the pickup selector has started acting faultey, it thinks possition 1 is 4 and 2 is 1, the rest are fine but it completly misses selection 2, is there any way to fix this?

Thanks

Scott

A Variax Bass transplant from righty variax to lefty Bass???

support@line6.com — Sat, 16 May 2009 17:50:19 GMT

Hello,

I've been thinking about many different ways to make the Variax Bass available to me because I'm left handed. I asked earlier about just re-stringing it. However it appears that I would have to modify the electronics if I did that. So if I'm going to take out the electronics I might as well have them put in a bass I'm comfortable playing (maybe a fender p or j bass).

So my question is how much is the average cost for a transplant?

I understand different repair shops will give different prices I'm just looking for an approximation. I live in Waco Texas so I might have to go to Austin or Dallas so if you know of anyone in that area that could do the transplant that would help also.

Thanks,

Ross Russell

variax cable loom.

support@line6.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 22:02:04 GMT

sent through a message , not sure if it got there so will try again , can I order a replacement cable loom for my 700 as I broke mine trying(stupidly) to do a modification, I realise this would iv[nvalidate any line 6 waranty ( dont think theres any left though ) , but would really like it up and unning . Though I broke original , sure I can install new one myself , many thanks Alex .

Variax 700 - 1st Gig woes...

support@line6.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 05:15:12 GMT

Well, I had my first gig with my new Variax 700 and X3Live this past Saturday. First off, let me say that I wish I had done more research into what and what not to do. Also, let me say, "Thank God that this was only a backyard barbeque and that I brought my PRS as back-up". At home and my bands practice space, my V700 works perfectly with the VDI cable and all the other ways to hook it up. So, I thought that it would be just fine for a one set gig. I mean, I use it a lot during the week and have never had a problem.

Now, on to what happened. It worked great for the first two songs. Then it started to cut in and out. Over and over. On the Input page of my X3Live, I checked the Variax model and it kept disappearing and reappearing several times a second. So, whilst playing, I would fiddle with the connections. (I missed several solos during this time). All to no avail. My band thought I would go Pete Tounsend on my guitar, but thankfully I didn't.

I got my stuff home and tried it out. I was trying to reproduce the problem and couldn't. Then it hit me. What is different at home than the gig? Power. In my pedal board, I have a power strip mounted. At home, I plug that power stip into my wall. At the gig, due to setups and distances, I had to daisy chain my power stip into the power of the other guitarist's pedal board. Lesson learned. Obviously, I wasn't getting enough power to supply both the X3Live and the Variax.

Again, lesson learned.

Where are the best custom models shared?

support@line6.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 17:51:21 GMT

Being a relative newbie, I was wondering what the best web sites were for sharing custom Variax models.

I found a good one at instituteofnoise, but I suspect that there may be others that I'm missing.

There's a Custom Tone Community on this site, but it's pretty empty with most discussion on the amp side of the house. Maybe there was something more active on the Variax side in the old forum? I didn't find it if there was.

Thanks

Replacement battery door!!!

support@line6.com — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 15:54:41 GMT

I have been missing the battery door for my Variax Guitar for some time now, and upon looking through replacement parts on the Line 6 store i have found every replacement part i could possibly need except for that. So where could i find a replacement battery door?

ordering a custom variax?

support@line6.com — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:41:45 GMT

Hi ,

Would it be possable for me to order a Variax acoustic with the Variax electric electronics in it insted of the acoustic electronics?

Thanks,

Perrin Isaac

How Do I Get Trained To Replace Pizos On Line 6 Guitars?

support@line6.com — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:57:40 GMT

I would like to know how to replace the pizos on my guitars and where to get the pizos from because they can go out at any time and with the

cost of the technition its like buying the guitar all over again!!!

initialisation variax 700

support@line6.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 07:41:15 GMT

Hello,

My variax 700 is not recognized in the Monkey.
I don't manage to make the firmware:
There are maneuvers that I made:
disconnected the ¼ " cord cabled TRS
disconnected the cord cabled RJ45
volume maxi
section the microphone 4
tonality to the middle
pulled the button custom 1
I connect to the ¼ " cord cabled TRS
I turn the tonality of mini to maxi
I hear the sequence beep
I go from custom 1 to custom 2 but I don't know what it is necessary to make to this stage.
I hear the 2nd sequence beep.

I reconnect the rj45 and the workbench is red.

I made the same sequence with the microphone 5
I hear the sequence beep 1 2 1
I reconnect the rj45 and the workbench is green

I made the same sequence with the microphone 3
I hear the sequence long beep 1 and 1 short
I hear the guitar in pod x3
I go from custom 1 to custom 2 but I don't know what it is necessary to make to this stage.
I hear the 2nd sequence beep.

I reconnect the rj45 and the workbench is red

I have a friend that to a pod xt live and tests didn't function.

can indicate you me an address in france to fix me.

since him n"y doesn't have a repairer in france, what is inadmissible for a mark as yours
and that one tries to manage all alone, it is not astonishing to have the complicated problems
there is has watch the French forums only to perceive that I am not alone in this case and that everybody galley, and maybe what is going to manage to resell the guitar and to make a bad advertisement in the middle of guitarists because plugs it to ear goes very quickly.

I hope to have a complete answer on the working of this guitar.

Cordially

Alain

Variax Acoustic 700 bridge pulling away from body.

support@line6.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:28:03 GMT

I have an early Variax Acoustic 700 with a bridge that is pulling away from the body. There is a sort of bubble on the top veneer where the bridge is pulling it up as it angles forward towards the neck of the guitar.

Is there anything that can be done? Aside from this the guitar is in perfect condition. The strings are somewhere between mediums and lights and it's never been tuned sharp or anything like that.

Variax rj-45 jack is causing intermittent connection interuptions

support@line6.com — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 02:13:47 GMT

My rj-45 jack on my variax 700 is causing intermittent connection problems. I know for sure it isn't the cable. Do I have replece the whole card on the jack housing to fix it? Anyone have this problem?

String volume

support@line6.com — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 03:03:45 GMT

Any way to set the string volumes to each model instead of global setting to all yet

1st string ,sometimes 2nd string failure on Variax 700

support@line6.com — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:17:49 GMT

1st(e) and 2nd (b) string sometimes produce no sound .

Variax 600 problems

support@line6.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:26:49 GMT

I am a working musician doing about 175 shows a year. I also teach 60 guitar students a week.

I'm using a Variax 600 and an XT Live.

I am this close to dumping the whole Line 6 and going back to Roland because of the reliability problems with the Variax.

I have had to replace one piezio already reight after I bought it (nice to have a dead string in the middle of your show) and re-attach the circuit board to the trem block after it fell off during a show and stopped working. (Double-sided scotch tape to hold it in place? What kind of bullet-proof design is that?)

Now I have another problem with the guitar: First it began to drop out - no sound whatsever - then bink! - it was back. Then out - then back. Then the high E went away. I started tapping on the piezio and it came back but at much lower volume. Put the 600 on my bench and started detuning the string in preperation to check out the saddle. The 600 was plugged in and as I loosened the string to about a B below high E the sound came back just fine but as soon as I put more tension on the string the sound cut out completely again. Huh? Loosened it - sound - tightened it - no sound. I took the string off, made sure all connections were good and put it back on. Same result. Then I pressed down on the inside (top) edge of the piezio and - it started working again and kept working.

So I played a show last Saturday (June 13) in front of 2000 people and during sound check the Variax left me stranded again! Plugged into my Pod XT Live and no sound at all. (I connect the Pod and Variax by the digital cable) I shut down the Pod and turned it back on. Now I have sound from the Variax along with a horrible crackling distortion. Rebooted, same, Rebooted, same. Show time is now minutes away and I have no choice but to dump the Variax and plug in my '72 Strat. Plug the Strat in everything is fine except for the fact that all my patches are written for the combo of Variax and Pod, not Strat and Pod.

I really like the combo when it works but I have to be able to rely on it. The Variax has failed me often enough that I'm seriously considering returning to the Roland VG fold. I used a VG-8 for ten years with zero - ZERO - reliability problems. I have to be able to depend on my gear. I was going to buy a second 600 or a 700 but I don't need two expensive guitars that I can't count on.

Anyone else had the same reliablity problems and if so what was your solution?

I am no newb - turned pro in 1978 - so I'm not just ranting.

I'd really like to be able to keep the Line 6 gear onstage but if I have to keep going to my back-up guitar, what's the point? (and don't even ask me about the crap I have to take from my 'guitar - stompbox - into the amp' bandmates when the Line 6 fails)

I willing to give this one more shot because I really do like the combo of the XT and the 600. But if I can't get an answer to my current problem and to feel confident that this thing is going to work reliably - I'm going back to Roland or maybe the new Peavey Vyper line.

thanks to any and all who may be able to help me and keep me in the Line 6 family...

Variax Bass knob not functioning correctly

support@line6.com — Wed, 13 May 2009 08:18:13 GMT

The bass knob on my Variax Bass seems to work intermittently.

At first I thought this was a firmware problem, so I flashed, but, no change. The only way I can adjust the bass setting is by turning both the treble & bass knobs simultaneously......sometimes opposite to each other..... sometimes. And even then, the bass tone flies up to full volume and can't be adjusted back down at all. I end up going out of the preset and not bothering with adjusting it at all.

Would love to get my bass knob functioning again. Anybody else having this problem?

variax danelectro

support@line6.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:02:27 GMT

this is my new variax danelectro gold top. just finished the project.

reinitialisation variax 700

support@line6.com — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 21:49:39 GMT

hello,

I have a variax 700 trems blacks and I wanted to initialize ropes, now the guitar is blocked and I would like to reset it, how to make it, I went on the site and I didn't understand anything, I tried to make an update and that doesn't function.
thank you to inquire.

pick up went out variax 700 bass

support@line6.com — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:02:22 GMT

how can I get a replacement

check this one out

support@line6.com — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:18:14 GMT

good book for those that want to do there own setups and repairs.

circuit board for variax 300

support@line6.com — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 02:22:33 GMT

i recently broke the piezo wire on my variax 300 and i tried to solder it back to the pcb, but the contact broke off. I'm planning to make a whole new pcb for the variax , do you know where i could get the pattern for the circuit ?

Wanted: Workbench interface

support@line6.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:55 GMT

Does anyone have a Workbench hardware interface lying around that they'd be willing to let go for reasonable money?

TIA,

David

why wont line 6 update workbench for 64 bit windows?

support@line6.com — Sat, 30 May 2009 18:06:51 GMT

why hasnt the company updated workbench for 64 bit windows?

Clicking Noise on Acoustic/Reso Models on Variax 600

support@line6.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:58:21 GMT

I get a weird clicking noise whenever I switch the model selection knob to either the acoustic or resonator models. This just started two days ago - before that I had no problems (at least none this obvious).

The noise occurs regardless of where I set the "pick up selector switch". It doesn't occur on any other models. I run the Variax through an X3 Live. I have downloaded and reinstalled firmware/flash memory updates in addition to all other software patches. I have also tried the Variax on battery and XPS power through both a normal guitar amp and the X3 Live. Nothing seems to work. The clicking noise is still present.

Anyone else had this problem?

Any suggestions other than the obvious (return it for a new one since I only bought it a week ago).

variax 300 switches randomly between settings

support@line6.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:01:35 GMT

my 300 is randomly switchig between models without me touching computer or the model selector

Your Variax has stopped responding using Workbench

support@line6.com — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 15:17:36 GMT

Hello,

I bought a used Variax 600 and tried now to connect to Workbench software Version 1.58 (driver v. 1.07)

The guitar is connected as described via Variax USB Interface to the PC (Vista 32 Bit Sp1) on digital socket, to the Line6 DI/Power Supply on the analog socket.

Installation and driver recognition went smoothly - on the Variax USB both LEDs are green. Also the Workbench application is launching fine, a Variax 300/600 is recognized in the configuration Window.

But in the Tone Locker window no connection can be seen. So I tried (in various variations) the refresh button which is launching the reconnection dialog. In some cases a progress bar appears, but then it stops always after 13 Seconds bringing up an dialog called "Midi Timeout" - "Your Variax has stopped responding. Please retry resetting the power and click "Refresh" in the Tone Locker".

After that the guitar is switched to one standard sound which can no longer be changed until the Guitar is rebooted (power off and on again).

I tried a lot of things - other cables, other USB ports and: I tried a laptop with Windows XP SP3. The behavior is the same

The Guitar has a firmware version 3.10

What do you think? Might there be a hardware defect on the digital end of the guitar? The analog section is working fine.

Appreciate your support. Thank in advance.

Peter

How update Variax Bass 705 firmware?

support@line6.com — Sun, 24 May 2009 15:18:04 GMT

I need to update the firmware for my Variax Bass 705 in order to see if this fixes the bad behaviour of the synth and upright bass sounds. I've been told this update should be done by connecting the instrument to a computer using the Variax USB Interface and the Monkey software. However I can't get this to work. The instrument is recognized by Monkey and depicted in the upper left corner, but the only firmware option listed on the Updates tab is for the USB Interface. I use the latest version of Monkey and the latest drivers for the USB Interface. I have also registered the instrument with my account (although Monkey keeps nagging I haven't).

Some time ago I had a similar problem updating the firmware for my Bass POD XT. In order to do this I had to roll back to Monkey v1.15 for any firmware and flash option to appear on the Updates tab. I'm not sure this is a bug in later versions or if these features were deliberately omitted, but if so I'm not sure exactly how Line6 wants us to perform these actions in an alternative way. Anyway, the hack of rolling back to v1.15 doesn't work for the Variax Bass since this version of Monkey does not recognize the instrument and the USB interface as connected.

There is also a firmware file to be downloaded from the Line6 download page called VariaxBass705_2.01.vxf but Monkey (any version) does not want to deal with this file, and there are no instructions on the download page how to go about updating the Variax Bass 705 using this file.

I've spent days and days on this problem, and have had several helpful users in this community trying to help me out, but so far the problem remains unsolved. So now, by marking this topic as a question, I hope some Line6 support guy will find the time to show me how to perform this firmware update.

Thanks in advance,

/Mats D

Hello.....problem with my Variax

support@line6.com — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 13:36:06 GMT

I have a 500 (I'm pretty sure) It's about 8 years old or so.........I will be strumming along.....and it will just quit and the amp will or recording equipment will start making a ticking noise. If I jiggled the cable extensively it would start working again, for a while and then the same problem. I assumed it was a short in the stereo cable. If I used it with batterys it worked fine. Anyway.....now it does the same thing when I'm using batterys....sooo, since it's a different cable......the problem lies within the guitar.

I am in Northern Michigan....Gaylord to be exact....49735.....as far as I know, there isn't anywhere around here I can take it to have it looked at. What do I do?

Thank you

Greg Pillsbury

Variax Custom Bank saving process

support@line6.com — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:15:42 GMT

I have a newly purchased Variax 600 and I seem to be unable to set up custom banks on either custom one or two. I follow the process in the manual and it does not make any changes. Is this a known issue, or a defect in the guitar?

Workbench EMG Pickups

support@line6.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:40:27 GMT

In workbench is their a way to make a pickup like a emg 81 or 85 or even high output pickups

Variax 300 plus X3Live Using Bass Effects

support@line6.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 09:50:52 GMT

This is just a quick question.

The Variax can be set up in such a way that it 'thinks' it is a bass guitar. I still need to work this out but I am 100% sure i saw a file somewhere on this that can do this. The question I have is could i use the bass effects on the X3Live using the Variax 300?

Lee

Looking to purchase variax bass - any suggestions where I can find one?

support@line6.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:27:36 GMT

Very interested in buying any model variax bass. Appreciate your help. Thanks

The Volume pot on my Variax 600 spins all the way around and doesn't have a stopping point anymore. I need to replace the pot. Is B10K the replacement part number and if so how can I obtain one from you?

support@line6.com — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 03:31:01 GMT

Hi,

I was wondering how I would go about obtaining a volume pot for my Variax 600? I have a Variax 700 and play it more often but I bought the 600 as a back up so it sits more often than not. I needed to play it and there was some noise in the volume pot so I started moving it around to break up the dirt or dust that was making it sound intermitant. But all of a sudden the volume pot didn't have a starting and stopping point and it now spins all the way around plus it doesn't provide the correct volume all the time anyway. When I have the guitar on 10 and just barely bump the volume pot...it will go completely silent and then maybe go back to full or somewhere in the middle.

Basically I just need a new volume pot for this 600 series. I looked inside after removing the pick gaurd and it looks like the writting on the pot says "B10K". Is that a correct part number? If so, how can I obtain one?

I was reading another question about another volume pot needing replaced and the writer said it was a "plug in"......is that true? If so, I would like to attempt this myself. Can you send me a replacement part if I provide payment or where can I obtain one locally. I live in the Indianapolis Indiana area.

If you can provide any information I would greatly appreciate it since this guitar is essentially not usable as it is and I would like to get it working again.

Thanks, Doug

Variax String Gauges and Physical drop tuning

support@line6.com — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:11:26 GMT

I'm extremely interested in the Variax, but no body around me has one in stock.

I was wondering if I can physcially drop tune. I tune to CGCFAD and use 10 to 52's. So I'm super particular about stuff. I don't wanna deal with latency so is it possibly to do this on the Variax? Use 10 to 52's and physically tune to drop C??

Thanks for any answers!!

Wish list: free scaling (& individual outputs)

support@line6.com — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 15:39:20 GMT

I remember discussing free scaling to simulate instruments like Oud or Saz. It seems I missed the news Line6 announced to offer this in the next workbench version.'though I can't imagine it'd be that hard to do... Compared to what Line6 already did. Really makes me, wish some gifted programmer might hack the code and provide us with what we want.

My dear brother is a programmer and gifted musician. We discussed the prospects of individual outputs for each single guitar string like more distortion with less disharmonics... We both are using the Yamaha G50 guitar to MIDI interface. Now he soldered those outputs for the piezo PU and sent me some mp3s of grand piano like stereo spread, one instance of Amplitube on every single string, bass AND guitar played at once on a Gibson Les Paul or strings not played but induced to vibrate by strings played but not recorded- kinda ebow like. ...; all of them recorded by a multi I/O souncard.

My MIDI PU is installed on a Variax 500. And I'd love to record the signals of individually computed strings. Of course I can- like my brother- grab the single outs of the piezo...

But has someone found a way to capture the single strings' COMPUTED signals somewhere from the circuit board or any place else?

I really, really say "Thank you" for any answers

Tom

Plink Noise Info

support@line6.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:03:31 GMT

Someone on YouTube asked me (in an intelligent and polite way - wow, wasn't expecting that on YouTube) if a setup would help the plink noise on the low E string of his Variax. Here is how I responded - I am posting this in case others find it useful.

Unfortunately no; it's a tone that is in the string (if you listen to any electric guitar's low E unplugged, you'll hear it) that is somehow brought out by the piezo pickups, and reduced by real magnetic pickups.

Therefore the things that help are:

1. Switching gauges of strings (not usually practical)

2. Using flatwound jazz strings (expensive, but does help the plink noise)

3. Using Elixir coated strings (less expensive, and helps somewhat)

4. Working carefully around it with your playing (not using the low E alone when possible) and the settings on your guitar and amp/Pod (tone controls especially - differs depending on your setup).

Good luck, Matt

Variax Switch Box Repair

support@line6.com — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:56:49 GMT

Dear Sir,

My power switchbox of Variax guitar has some missing parts in the input jack hold (please see enclosed pictures) that I cannot plug in my cable anymore. I asked the distributor in Hong Kong (Tom Lee Music) and they said there is no way to repair.

Could you please suggest how can I repair it?

Thanks!

Kenney

Why is there so little support for Variax® Digital Interface?

support@line6.com — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:30:21 GMT

Why is there so little support for Variax® Digital Interface among the cheaper Line6 POD's and amps? It has gone 5 years since i bought my Variax and in that time Line6 have got 3 new products with the VDI. It is the POD X3 Live, the POD X3 Pro and Vetta II. Both are products way over my budget. Since I had to sell my POD XT Pro (Witch did not have the VDI) to get my new organ I have been in the market for a new simpler amp or multieffect for my Variax 500. There is nothing. Only the X3's and the Vetta are available here in Norway right now. Are there any aftermarket upgrades for any of the new cheaper products like Spider amps or floor PODs?

Batteries Stonger Than XPS Or Power Cable?

support@line6.com — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:51:28 GMT

For the first time in over 3 years of ownership I had to use batteries at a gig to power my 600. My Variax power cable died the night before, and I was forced into uncharted territory. To my surprise, the guitar sounded much clearer and stronger (the Strat sounds were MUCH better). Figuring a new power cable would also sound stronger, I got one, but it sounds like the last one. Has anybody else noticed this difference? Could the XPS be the culprit? The one bummer about using batteries, was I couldn't use the XPS (it wouldn't power on) to switch the acoustic sounds to the P.A. Would a different A-B box allow me to use batteries and switch acoustics into a P.A.?

Is it possible to get the Variax system for my guitar?

support@line6.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 22:12:36 GMT

I´m making a guitar, is it possible to get the variax system?

I need a part

support@line6.com — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 10:12:48 GMT

Where can I buy a volume control pot for one of my Variax 700 guitars. I have gotten in touch with two service centers with no luck. Please help. I am beginning to worry about my investment in this guitar.

When I pull the selector out the sound is fine with the exception that I can't control the volume. The switch is making so much noise that my X3 POD Live can't even read it. It just clips and recycles, so I can't undate the firmware. It is not recognizable by "Workbench" either.

Any solutions would be appreciated.

Pastor C. David White

Bult-in tuner in Variax footswitch

support@line6.com — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 10:59:13 GMT

Hi:

Isn't it about time Line6 came up with a integrated tuner in the footswitch for the Variax? I have an acoustic 700 and I find it such a missed opportunity that the footswitch doesn't have it!!! You would think this was an obvious thing to do!!

Updating Variax firmware via PODXTlive

support@line6.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 07:08:24 GMT

How do I check & update Variax firmware via PODXTlive ?

I have latest Monkey, works with PC via USB or MIDI connection

but Variax does not appear as a selectable device.

I do not have the Variax direct USB interface.

How do I do this ?

Can you lose your Variax edits when updating firmware ?

Barry

User Presets with Variax 300 and PODXT Live

support@line6.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 02:59:04 GMT

Hi All,

I am using a Variax 300 and a PODXT Live together. I just noticed tonight that I can't seem to save my Variax setting in any preset located above bank 16. Is this a specific limitation of the XT Live or am I doing something wrong? Any advice would be greatly appreciated... thanks in advance!

variax 600 no sound from digital interface

support@line6.com — Sun, 03 May 2009 18:56:19 GMT

please help just purchased an immaculate 600 variax on ebay, works ok on the trs lead. purchased a digital lead but got no sound and being a holiday monday store is closed tomorrow

i downloaded the variax firmware 1.58 which now shows me my models on the screen, changed the input mode to variax, checked that the output is combo front (amp and lead ok and when i move the live out level switch i can hear a loud click from 1/4 in to amp front. checked the internal plug behind the variax plate it was connected ok.

now i know that there are four possibilities not including software or firmware

1 the variax

2 the x3 live

3 the lead

4.the fourth possibility is that being a line 6 novice i am doing something wrong or not doing something that i am supposed to

q can anyone help on the last possibility please

Left Handed Dilema

support@line6.com — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:22:40 GMT

Hi, I was wondering if you turned the strings around on a right handed variax, would the strings be picked up correctly by the special pickup under the bridge. If this is OK then I could try and pick up a right handed variax and transfer the electronics to a left handed body (albeit with the controls under my arm) but this should leave access for the traditional pickups and electronics in the standard left hand position?

It may seem odd to go to such lengths as Line 6 did issue the 500 in left handed (which I was lucky to pick up and have set up for to optimise acoustic and slide styles) but I want another to set up for electric and despite improvements in recent years there is just not enough support for left handed people by line 6 (or anyone for that matter) so these are now impossible to get hold of. I would love the 700 and the Acoustic in left handed.

Another alternative would be if Line 6 would sell the electric seperately

Has anyone tried the above and able to offer any advice

Kind Regards

Mick

Replacement TRS Cable

support@line6.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:59:31 GMT

Where can I get a replacement TRS cable for my variax bass? I've seen some listings on ebays for used instruments where there is a planet waves replacement cable. Any wisdom as to who carries them at decent prices would be appreciated. Thanks fdr1031@msn.com

Problems with Variax bass - pin connector wires? Where can I get new wires?

support@line6.com — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:05:50 GMT

I thought my Variax bass had some pickup issues - was playing one night and the A and D pickups went out after making some wind-type noise for awhile. I ordered 2 new pickups, and in the meantimes the E pickup went out. Called Line 6 again but they were out of stock! They said I had ordered the last 2 they had.

I thought about it awhile, and I just didnt see how 3 pickups could have gone bad all at once, so I tried to get them working again. Took off the bridge, which was very hard because the pin connector wire was so short I had to use tweezers to unplug it. I left the bass plugged in this whole time, trying to get some sound out of it, which is when I noticed that it wasnt while I messed with the pickups that the sound went in and out, its when I moved the pin connector and its wire. All 4 pickups were working at certain points when I was moving the whole bridge around. Trying to plug it back it was even harder. I tried to take off pickguard to see if I could make the wires any longer, but I got stuck at the blend knobs. How do you get them off? I see small screw holes on the top and bottom one, is that how?

Now once I can get the knobs off and get to the guts, what can I do to fix this pin connector wiring? Can I buy these wires and connectors at a Radio Shack or anything, or is it something I would have to order/take to Line 6? I can't even see if the wires and connector that connect to the bridge are OK or not, because I can't even get it out of the bridge cavity far enough to look at! Definately some shoddy wiring work on this bass!

Thanks for any help - I've got 2 gigs this weekend and no bass! Can't find a music store that rents basses either!

Replacement Variax 300 electric tune-o-matic/nashville bridge

support@line6.com — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:11:33 GMT

Hi,

I have a slightly battered Variax 300 (electric) and I want to move the electrics into an ES335 type guitar that I own. The 335 has a tune-o-matic Nashville type bridge. For aesthetic reasons I don't want to use the variax bridge unit (I'm not even sure that it's possible) so I need a tune-o-matic/nashville type unit with a piezo transducer that will feed the Variax circuitry. Will any piezo bridge work or is it wired in a particular way for the Variax application? Could someone point me to a manufacturer/supplier/model that will do the job?

Thanks a lot

Chris Henderson

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