i think you are misunderstanding something
you don't need a plugin to record. you record using some recording software. some are free (like audacity) others cost money like reaper, or logic, etc. within your recording software you can record from your standalone version of gearbox or pod farm and get the sounds you want.
using the plugin gives you the ability to record your dry guitar track and add effects later. that's a certain way or recording, but that doesn't mean you can't already record with what you have... so line6 hasn't mislead you.... you've read something and assumed you need a plugin to record which isn't accurate.
