Community : Document List - Stompbox Modelers / ToneCore

DL4 Stompbox Modeler FAQ

support@line6.com — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 17:37:08 GMT

Q: Will the Stompbox Modelers work with other instruments besides guitar?

Yes, the Stomp Box Modelers will work with just about any "instrument level" device including bass guitar.

Q: How can I reset my DL4 to the factory presets?

A: You can reset your pedal to the factory settings by powering it up with the A and D footswitches held down - the power is turned on and off on the modeler pedals by inserting a plug into the left mono input jack.

Q: How can I set up my DL4 in an effects chain? What kind of power supply does the DL4 require?

A: For information on setting up your DL4 in an effects chain or power supply information, please click here.

Q: Does the DL4 have reverb?

A: The DL4 delay Modeler does not have reverb. It has 15 different delay models and a loop sampler.

Q: What are some features and functions of the looper?

A: The DL4 Loop Sampler function operates at 14 seconds to summed mono outputs at regular speed, and 28 seconds at half speed. A loop sampled and played at normal speed, then switched to half speed, will drop the pitch an octave. A loop sampled and played at half speed will play back at normal pitch. If the speed is then returned to normal, the pitch will be raised an octave.

When the DL4 is in 1/2 speed mode, the sampling rate and consequently the bandwidth have been halfed. This shouldn't be very noticeable though as this halfed bandwidth is still wider than most standard electric guitar amps. If you were using the unit with a very clean, bright electric guitar (or acoustic guitar)and monitoring through studio monitors, you may notice the change in bandwidth.

While in "Loop Sampler" mode, the DL4 will receive signal through each of its two inputs simultaneously. The input signal will then be summed to mono, sampled and then sent to the two outputs. In order to sample both inputs separately (or in stereo), the unit would have required two separate sample processors and a lot more RAM. Needless to say, this would have increased the cost of the unit dramatically. All other DL4 "Delay Models" will however have a discrete left and right stereo output.

Q: How can I use an EX-1 Expression pedal with my DL4?

A: For information on using an EX-1 expression pedal with the DL4, please click here.

Q: How is the Expression pedal implemented in the loop/sampler portion of the DL4? Can you adjust the feedback level of the loop (so loops start to fade), or just the mix of loop in the output signal?

A: The expression pedal works the same way in the Loop Sampler mode as it does in the regular delay mode. You can set the toe-down position of the pedal to one setting of the knobs (excluding the model selector knob) and the heel-down position to another setting. For example you could have the toe-down position set for the loop mix (mix knob) at maximum, the delay level (tweez) at medium, the delay modulation (tweak)at minimum, the delay repeats at half-way, and the delay time set fast (say 3 o'clock). You could then put the pedal in the heel-down position and set the knobs for the loop level at minimum, the delay level at maximum, the modulation at minimum, the repeats at minimum and the delay time long (say 9 o'clock). Now when you're playing (and the play/stop button is switched on), putting the pedal in the toe down position will give you the loop at full volume, pre-loop delay that is of medium volume volume with no modulation and a fast time. When you switch to heel-down, you'd get no loop (even with the play/stop button switched on)with a long single delay that is very loud. Yes it will remember your settings after you turn the DL4 off.

The loop sampler can either play the loop indefinitely (until you hit the stop button)or play it one time only then stop (Button C). It will not trail off on it's own. You would have to use the expression pedal to ride it's level.

Q: On the stomp-box modelers, how do I turn on the alternate (delay trails) bypass and what does it do?

A: Alternate Bypass will allow the delay to remain in the signal (fade off into the distance) when the pedal is turned off, where True Bypass will stop the delay as soon as the pedal is turned off. Alternate bypass mode should prevent any drop in volume level when the pedal is engaged. In addition, it will not cut off delay trails in a long delay setting.

To switch between true bypass and alternate bypass mode, you will need to hold down the a and c buttons at the same time for at least three seconds while inserting the left mono input(which will turn on the unit) to initialize alternate bypass. It will remember the selected bypass mode. Since it's a simple toggle, if you want to switch back, just repeat the process.

Q: I'm having a hard time getting my bass loops to sync up with my drum tracks. It almost sounds as though the bass loops are slowing down. Is that possible? Or are there some tricks to getting the loops right on the money?

A: What you are experiencing is caused by the fact that it is very difficult to record a perfectly timed loop. Even if the original loop is off by the slightest amount of time, that time will be compounded with every repeat of the loop.

Example: if the end of the loop is 1ms off, after 10 loops the guitar parts are now 10ms faster or slower than the drum parts. After 15 loops it will have a 15ms difference etc...You may need to re-sample the loop if after using it 6-8 times it doesn't match perfectly. With practice, you will get the feel of the correctly timed loop.

Q: Can I make the sampled loop louder without overpowering my guitar?

A: While in the LOOP SAMPLER mode, a simple turn of the MIX knob should enable you to control the level of the initial loops. Also, using the DL4 with a Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal will enable you to "morph" between two different MIX settings on the fly, from the floor, in real time. Simply place the EX-1 in the "heel down" position and program the pedal to your first desired setting. Next, put the EX-1 in the toe down position and program your second desired setting. Now, move the pedal back and forth and morph away baby!

More information on the DL4 can be found at our Stomp Box Modelers product page.

Q: What is the "suppressed carrier" frequency of the ring modulator patch? Is it fixed, or does it change with the variable waveform control (tweak or tweez)?

A: It is variable and controlled via the tweak knob. 0 = sine, 10 = square wave.

Q: How do I get the "Alvin Lee" dotted eighth note rhythm or "U2/Edge" delay from the DL4 pedal?

The Alvin Lee Dotted Eighth Note Rhythm:

The "Alvin Lee" sound is a single slap-back repeat. To set it up:

1. Tap the dotted eighth rhythm into the Digital Delay model.

2. Set Repeats, Tweak and Tweez to zero and the mix to 1:00. It may seem difficult to tap that rhythm in with your foot, but with a little practice, it becomes pretty easy. There is no preset delay value of a dotted eighth rhythm in the Rhythmic Delay model.

The "U2 / Edge" Delay:

The "U2/Edge" sound has 1.5 to 2 repeats on each of the stereo delays. To set this up:

1. Set the delay model to stereo delay and the unit automatically defaults to the "U2" sound. The Edge delay is actually a dotted eighth rhythm on the left side and a quarter note rhythm on the right side. The way to adjust the delay to this sound is to set the delay time to 11:00, repeats to 7:30, Tweak to 11:30, Tweez to 7:30 and mix to 1:00. If you want the tempo to be faster, just move the Delay Time and Tweak knobs a little counter-clockwise. You will have to make adjustments by ear to get that perfect "dotted eighth and quarter note" sound.

The default Tap Tempo rhythm for the models is a quarter note. It is not possible to change this default rhythm. The only solution would be to save the presets with a different rhythm. This would allow for six presets if you used the optional expression pedal.

Troubleshooting Line 6 Modeling (Four-Button Stomp) & ToneCore Pedals

support@line6.com — Tue, 15 May 2007 21:56:29 GMT

- Use a different guitar, cables, and amp to make sure they are working correctly

- Remove all other pedals between your instrument and the amplifier.

Ensure that:

- The cables you are using to test work correctly by plugging directly from the instrument into the amplifier.

- All jacks and nuts on the pedal are tight.

- The unit is receiving sufficient power from the correct power supply (Line 6 DC-1 for Tone core pedals, PX-2 for Modeling pedals). Do not use old batteries to test pedals.

For Tonecore Pedals:

* Lighter taps will set the tap tempo function while a heavier foot motion will activate the pedals on/off function. Make sure that you are activating the switch to turn the pedal on by putting your full weight on the pedal (sometimes it take a while for the actuator switch to be broken in).

* Try a different Line 6 module in your dock, and try your module with a different dock to see where the malfunction is.

For Stompbox Modeling Pedal (4-Button): Reset the pedal by having the power plugged in and pressing the A & D ('Tap' on the DL-4) button when plugging in the left mono input.

If you are still having difficulty you will need to get the unit repaired at an authorized service center. All Line 6 Pedals carry a 12 month parts and labor warranty from the date of purchase. Please take a copy of the dated proof of purchase to ensure the warranty is covered.

Product Repair

Line 6 Product Warranty

Expression Pedal & Stompbox Modeler Pedal FAQ

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

Q: How do I use an EX-1 Expression Pedal with a Stomp Box Modeling Pedal?

A: Power off your stomp box modeler by unplugging the left/mono input. Next, plug in your expression pedal and set the expression pedal to the full heel down position. Plug the left/mono input back in and dial up a sound you like. Now press the expression pedal forward to the toe down position, and set one of more of your knobs to another setting. Rock back and forth on your expression pedal and you'll hear your sound blend between the two sound settings you just made. Store this sound into one of your pedals memories and the toe down and heel settings will be saved as well.

Example of EX-1 connected to a DL4 Modeling Pedal:

- Move EX-1 to heel down, adjust the delay settings on DL4.

- Then move the expression pedal to toe.

- Now change only the parameters that you want to be affected.

- Heel to toe sweeps between those two settings.

Q: Do I need to reprogram my changes with the EX-1 every time I plug the pedal in?

A: You do not need to restart your effect unit everytime you want to reset the expression pedal. Your expression pedal settings will remain the way you set them up regardless of effect knob settings. Your expression pedal settings can be saved to the effects parameters saved by the footswitches.

Q: Can I use one EX-1 Expression Pedal to control two modeling (4x4) pedals?

A: There are a couple ways to approach running two modeling pedals with a single EX-1. Both methods require modification (as the ohm resistance will be cut in half):

- Replace the 10k pot in the EX-1 with a 5k pot, and use a mono-split instrument cable to each modeling pedal.

- Remove the second jack hole cover (labeled “output”) and install a second 1/4" mono jack here. Replace the existing mono 10K pot with a double-ganged or stereo 10K pot. Install the leads from each side of the pot to it's own dedicated output jack, then use one mono 1/4" cable per jack connected to each expression pedal input on the 4x4 pedal(s).

Q: How can I get replacement stickers for my Stomp Box Modeling pedal?

A: The stickers for the MM-4, DL-4, and FM-4 are attached to this document for download and printing.

Q: Are there any other documents regarding the EX-1 expression pedal?

Line 6 Expression Pedal (EX-1) F.A.Q.s

DM4 Stompbox Modeler FAQ

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

Q: What real life pedals are modeled on the DM4 Distortion Modeler?

A: All of the pedals that are modeled are descibed in detail in the DM4 owners manual. You can view or download the owners manuals for all Line6 products at the Line6 website

Q: What are the factory presets for the DM4?

A: The factory presets for the DM4 are as follows:

A: Line 6 Drive

B: Line 6 Distortion

C: Sub Octave Fuzz

D: Jet Fuzz

Line 6 Four Button/Stompbox Pedal FAQs

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

Tonecore Pedals

You can set up any of the Line 6 Tonecore pedals the same way that you would any other stomp box. Plug your guitar into the input of the pedal and plug the output of the pedal into the next step in your chain, whether it be another pedal or an amp. If you are using many pedals, you may need to arrange the order to get the best sound, especially if you have boutique pedals with very high output or stereo effect pedals that require a stereo input/output (please see the information below regarding common effect chain setups). Once you have your pedal(s) setup, give it some power either from the Line 6 DC-1 adapter or a 9 volt battery, stomp on it to turn it on, and ROCK OUT!!!

Note: All Line 6 Tonecore pedals are designed for instrument level input, but have no problem being placed between the guitar and the amplifier or in an amplifier's effect loop.

Q: Are the ToneCore pedals "True Bypass" when I disengage the effect?

A: No, the Tonecore pedal will still have the audio signal running through the processor, but you will not hear the effect.

Common Effect Chain Order:

Pedals are often set up in the following categories from the guitar input to the amp:

(a) Dynamic control: Constrictor (compressor)

(b) Filter control: Otto Filter, FM-4

(d) Modulation: Liqua-Flange (Flanger), Space Chorus, Tap Tremolo, Roto Machine, MM-4

(e) Time based: Echo Park (Delay), DL-4, Verbzilla (Reverb)

Please remember that this is only a guide, and many players will vary this setup order depending on personal preferences. You can find more information on effect pedal chains at Harmony Central

Other tips for getting a better tone:

- Use the highest quality cables you can afford

- Use the shortest cable lengths possible between units

- Confirm that all of your power needs are coming from the same source (to avoid ground loops)

Q: Is there any way to combine sounds on a Line 6 Stompbox or Tonecore? For example, what if I want some chorus and tremolo at the same time?

A: The Line 6 pedals are designed to play a single effect model at a time. Due to the high processing demands of modulation circuits, having the option of using more than one of the effects at time would have compromised the processing power dedicated to each effect and would have resulted in lower quality sound.

Q: How can I do a factory reset on my Stomp Box Modeling Pedal?

A: Have the power supply connected and press & hold A & D ('Tap' on the DL-4) button while plugging in your guitar to the left mono input.

Q: Are the Four-Button Stomp Box Modeling pedals True Bypass" when I disengage the effect?

A: The Four-Button Stomp Box Modeling pedals are "true bypass", meaning that the audio signal is sent directly from the input jack to the output jack. You can disable the "True Bypass" by holding the first and the third buttons (from the left) when powering the unit (inputing instrument cable into the left Mono input) to hear the effect after the effect is disengaged (i.e. trailing delays).

Q: When I activate a channel on my Stompbox Modeler, I get the same sound no matter which model I have selected on the dial.

A: Line 6 Stompbox Modelers use a combination of "live" controls and stored settings so it can be a little confusing a first. When you press one of the preset buttons, you are recalling the stored sound saved in that location regardless of where the model select knob is positioned. When you rotate the model select knob, you switch to that model and the associated control positions for it are recalled. The rest of the controls become active as you adjust them. Once you have a sound you like be sure to save it to one of the channels because once you switch to another channel, it's gone.

Q: I am noticing a volume boost/loss when I engage my Four button modeling pedal. Why is this?

A: The "True Bypass" mode will not have any noticeable effect on the signal path, so there will be very little change in overall volume when the pedal is disengaged. If the pedal is engaged at all time (i.e. allowing trailing delays) you may notice a slight increase in volume as the pedal is always active. These type of volume effects can be minimized by using the previous tone tips recommended and/or using a looping system (i.e. Voodoo Lab's Pedal Switcher or GCX) for larger pedal configurations.

Q: How should I power my Line 6 Pedals?

A: We recommend using the Line 6 DC-1 for the Tonecore pedals, PX-2 AC Power Supply for the 4-button stompboxes, or the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power units for powering pedals. The Pedal Power 2 Plus can power up to 6 Tonecore pedals and two Modeling pedals at once, and the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power AC can power up to 4 Modeling pedals. Other power supplies may not deliver consistent voltage and are not supported by Line 6.

Q: What are the specifications for Line 6 power supplies?

A: Power Supply F.A.Q.

Q: Can I run my Line 6 Modelling pedal in a parallel or series FX loop?

A: Line 6 does not support the use of any Line 6 Four Button modeling pedal in an effect loop as the Line 6 Modeling pedals are designed for instrument level (guitar/bass output) to be inserted between the instrument and the amplifier. The signal strength of a line level signal (i.e. an effect loop) can cause the input buffers to fail.

Q: What if I have a level control on my FX Loop?

A: It is up to the player to determine how to set the effect loop level according to personal taste, but Line 6 does not recommend placing any Line 6 Four Button modeling pedal in an effect loop. The send would need to be reduced to approximate a guitar level signal (i.e., -22db, 1.5v pp max, etc). The problem with this is that you rely on the modeling pedal for make up gain, which if you tailored the input would result in higher noise floor. If a loop is the only desirable way to connect a Line 6 Modeling pedal, you will need a -22db pad on the front end and a +20db buffer on the output to make up the gain.

Q: Can I run a tuner out of an unused output of a Line 6 pedal?

A: There is no technical reason why this would not work, although some users have noticed noise in their system when this is done.

Q: Are the Stompbox Modelers MIDI compatible? Are they able to exchange patches and/or other information with the POD and other Line 6 products?

A: In order for two digital devices to communicate with one another, i.e. exchange patches and/or other MIDI information, they must both have MIDI In and Out capabilities. The "Stomp Box Modelers" do not feature MIDI compatibility; thus they are unable to communicate with other MIDI devices.

ToneCore Pedals FAQ

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

Q: What are ToneCore pedals?

A: ToneCore pedals are the new line of modeling stompboxes from Line 6. Each of the pedals in the Tone Core line include superior Line 6 tone and features, rugged die-cast construction, dual-action switching (tap tempo), and 9 Volt operation (or optional power supply).

Q: Are ToneCore pedals "true bypass"?

A: No. However, they use an FET style switching that removes the A/D converter from the audio when in Bypass. That being said, it is unlikely that you will notice any change in your tone as FET's are extremely quiet and very fast.

Q: Are the ToneCore pedals buffered?

A: Yes, all the Tonecore pedals are buffered.

Q: Are the ToneCore pedals "true stereo"? Which models have stereo inputs/outputs?

A: The following Tonecore pedals are true stereo (stereo inputs and outputs): The Tap Tremolo, Space Chorus, and Echo park.

Q: What kind of connections do the ToneCore pedals utilize?

A: All ToneCore pedals have unbalanced input and output jacks.

Q: Does the delay have a looper?

A: No. If you need looping controls and more elaborate delay features, the Line 6 DL4 sets the standard with 14 seconds of loop time, half-speed, and loop reverse.

Q: How does the tap tempo work on the various pedals?

A: ToneCore pedals feature a unique 2-IN-1 step footswitch used setting the tempo for time-based effects.

1) On all effects, step firmly on the footswitch to turn the effect On and Off.

2) On the effects like delay or tremolo, tap lightly on the footswitch a couple times to set the effect tempo.

Q: Will the mono dock tap feature work with stereo modules?

A: Yes, the tap feature will work the same in either a mono or stereo dock.

Q: How do I power my ToneCore unit?

A: The Line 6 DC-1 will power one unit at a time, or you can use a standard 9v battery that tests at 9 volts or higher. Avoid using the Line 6 PX-2 power supply (used with the POD series units), as it can damage your Tonecore unit. The DC-1 can be purchased directly from the Line 6 store.

Line 6 store

Q: Can I daisy chain Tone Core pedals on a power supply?

A: No, you will want to use isolated power supplies for each ToneCore. The Pedal Power 2 Plus can power up to 6 Tonecore pedals and two Modeling pedals at once.

Q: What's the difference between these and the big stomp box modelers?

A: The new ToneCores are standard, single button sized stompboxes with no preset programmability, while the four button modelers have presets that can be programmed.

Q: Are these models based on vintage pedal effects or are they original?

A: Some models are totally new and others were developed using modified versions of Line 6's effects library.

Q: Can I run my Line 6 Tonecore pedal at line level either in an effect loop or between a keyboard and an amplifier?

A: Yes, you should have no problems running a Tonecore pedal at line level either in an effect loop or between a keyboard and an amplifier.

Q: How do I change the battery in my Tonecore pedal?

A: Press firmly on both sides of the metal buttons (at the same time) where the pedal presses down. This will disengage the locking mechanism and you will be able to access the battery chamber underneath the pedal section of the Tonecore.

Q: How do I get the pedal effect to turn off?

A: Due to the unique 2-IN-1 step footswitch used to set the tempo for time-based effects, you need to push hard to engage/disengage the effect. You will hear/feel an audible "click" when the effect is activated/deactivated.

Q: My dock was damaged but the module is fine. How can I replace it?

A: If your dock is under warranty, you can take the unit to your nearest authorized service center. If your unit is out of warranty you can purchase a new dock at an authorized dealer.

Q: What are the setting for the pedals in the demonstrations?

A: Unfortunately we have no record of the settings used for the demonstrations.

Q: Do I need to have my Line 6 amplifier on a specific setting if I am going to utilize a Line 6 effect pedal?

A: There is no specific setting you should use, but you may want to modify the effects in your presets when doing your initial setup to hear exactly what you are working on.

Q: I notice a latency when you max the mix knob on the Echo Park?

A: The mix knob full on means that you will only have delay, and none of the original guitar signal. if you are running the pedal between your guitar and amplifier you will most likely want to have the mix position at 50% value or less.

Q: Is the dry signal passed through as analog and then mixed with the digital wet signal, or is the entire signal converted to digital, manipulated and then converted back to analog?

A: The audio signal does a "full conversion" of analog to digital processing, and then back to analog processing.

Q: What is the input and output impedence of the Tonecore series?

A: Input impedence: ~680-800 ohms, output impedence: ~1Kohm.

Q: What size Allen wrench is used to change the effect module?

A: 7/64" A.E.S.