rd2rk

Per @PierM, the switches on the LL should work as we hoped. Here's another example preset which sends all the messages to keep the LL and HXS switches in sync. Again, as @PierMsaid, after loading your preset, ONLY use the LL switches to toggle the Stomps. Possible problems: I only see that it's possible to use 5 Stomps, and that is what the preset does. The MODE shouldn't need anything from the HXS as it's completely handled from the LL. Depending upon how the LL handles serial (consecutive) messages, it MAY need to receive a WAIT between messages. You can add that to the Instant Commands. It shouldn't be necessary with the Stomp commands. The double send at Preset/Snapshot load only happens because it's the HXS default behavior (ICs send first, then Toggling CC messages) and can't be turned off. Since the same messages are being sent it shouldn't be a problem. Assuming that the presets works as intended, you should be able to figure out the logic from studying the Command Center configuration. Remember that each Snapshot has to be configured separately, settings do not carry over between Snapshots. Off to the airport now, hope it works! Talk to you Monday! sctwoodworks2.hlx

Keeping in mind that I don't actually have an LL to test with, and the manual doesn't say anything (that I saw) about how the LL behaves when it receives MIDI - Explaining this will be harder than actually configuring it. I assume that you are changing the HXS Preset from the HXS in Preset mode. When an HXS FS is assigned to send a Toggling CC (with default DIM/LIT settings of 0/127), if it is saved OFF it knows to send 127 when pressed. If saved ON it knows to send 0 when pressed. First, we need to establish that the LL FS works the same way as the HXS FS. Set the LL FS1 to be a Toggling FS which RESPONDS on CC#1 and SENDS CC#49 when pressed. Set the HXS FS1 to send a Toggling CC on CC#1 with a Value of 0. Create a Preset with a simple Gain Block assigned to FS1 and save it with the Gain Block Bypassed (OFF, FS1 DIM). When you load the Preset CC#1 will be sent with a Value of 0 which should turn OFF the LL FS1. What we're testing for is if when the LL FS is turned OFF by the message from the HXS, does it send Its CC#49 message? What Value does it send? Assuming that it either sends nothing or CC#49 with Value of 0, FS1 on the HXS should remain OFF and its assigned Gain block should remain Bypassed. Now press LL FS1. if it lights up and sends CC#49 with a Value of 127 we're in business. The HXS FS1 should light up and turn the Gain Block ON. The LEDs on the two devices will be in sync and pressing the LL FS1 repeatedly should toggle the HXS FS1 and its Gain Block as expected. In case that's not clear I've attached an example preset to show how the HXS Preset is configured. I'm flying to Michigan tomorrow for a family thing so I won't be able to get back to you on this until Monday. Hope it works! sctwoodworks.hlx

I don't have a Powerstage, I have a PC212+ which, in its simplest configuration (LF RAW) is the same thing, a Class D power amp into eminence guitar speakers. Typically, a tube power amp adds the coloration of the power tube type (EL84/34, 6v6, 6L6 etc.). This is mainly noticeable at high volumes when the tubes are being pushed. The preamp only option MIGHT be preferable in that case. The difference between the Helix preamp and full amp models is that ITRW, there's an interaction between a tube amp's pre and power amp, and another between the power amp and the speaker (impedance curve). This interaction is lost in a simple modeler>cab/IR>Class D amp>guitar speaker or FRFR configuration. The Helix full amp model attempts to model both of these interactions, with the impedance curve (which mostly affects "feel") modeled after whatever speaker L6 chose to use in the amp+cab model. Of course, it's not likely that you'll be using that specific speaker and, in any case not all RW amps use the same speaker, so whatever RW speaker you use will add its own color to the sound. The modeled impedance curve simply attempts to add the "feel" of the interaction with a real speaker - the theory being (I think) that any impedance curve is better than none. Ideally, you'd have a choice of impedance curves to match the RW speaker. Maybe someday, but truth be told, "feel" is nebulous and entirely subjective and not the most important aspect of the modeling unless you really think that you can "feel" it. You can experiment with this by using a cab model other than the one used in the amp+cab. Can you "feel" it? I can't, but it's nice to know it's there. :-)

In Global Settings>Footswitches, how are these four settings configured: Preset Mode Switches Stomp Mode Switches Snapshot Mode Switches Up/Down Switches It would also be helpful if you attached an example preset.

Using a blank preset, I added an FX Loop and ran it through my Cat. With Gain, Channel Volume and Master dimed, I switched between the Clean and High Gain amps. Clean - no noise. High Gain - Noisy AH. I then took the Helix completely out of the picture - guitar>amp input>amp output>speaker. Switching between Clean and High Gain, same result. I think you're hearing the sound of a high gain amp. The FX Loop MIGHT be adding a tiny bit to the overall noise, but not much. I don't know how to fix this.

I don't care about winning. As you well know, I'm all about helping. I didn't even know we were competing. In this case I want to understand what's going on with this controller, and apparently the manual sucks. No way I'm going to buy an LL to figure this out, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't buy one if it was worth buying. That's why I'm asking you, because you seem to be better versed in the use of this device than the authors of the manual. I have MANY MIDI controllers, and this is not the only forum in which I answer questions concerning using MIDI with various devices, plugins and controllers. It's kind of a hobby. It's obvious that we speak different languages, and that always makes communication difficult. If you're too busy to continue the discussion, fine, but don't use the OP being confused as an excuse. I don't hear the OP complaining.

The LL sends a PC# to the HXS to select a preset on the HXS, yes? If so, when the HXS loads the preset the HXS can send the LL a CC to activate the switch on the LL. It needs to be a Toggling CC to be sent on preset load and will send the value (0/127) depending upon whether the HXS FS/effect is saved ON or OFF.

The file you attached is a .php file. Is that some kind of Apple thing? My Windows PC doesn't have a default app to open those.

Where in the manual is the ability to receive MIDI documented, I didn't see it. Maybe there's a different manual from the one I have? I only saw the one manual on the Blackstar site. What CC and Value are you using to toggle the switch on the LL? In CommandCenter, assign that same CC/Value to a Bypass switch on the HXS. When you press that switch to Bypass the effect it will also send that CC/Value to the LL. Again, I do this all the time with VSTs.

If what you are saying about the noise being generated by the Helix were true, then that noise would exist with every amp. My current amp's FX loop (Catalyst100) is effectively silent, as was the Egnater, while the Engl I had was noisy. The Helix FX loop is not absolutely silent, there is a tiny amount of noise added, but it should be imperceptible. Do you have an external AI (soundcard)? Using a blank preset try connecting the send to one of its inputs and use a meter (in a DAW?) to check for noise on the send. In Global Settings>Ins/Outs be sure to set the send to the level expected by the AI's input.

Just watched your movie. We're saying the same thing, but if you assign (in CommandCenter) a CC to the HXS FS, it would send that CC, but the LL would not receive it because it can't receive MIDI.

Are you saying that the LL RECEIVES MIDI? if so, where did you get that info? It's not in the LL Manual. As I understand the OP, he wants the LL to send a PC on a switch configured to do so (or when scrolling), and the LL to reflect the ON/OFF status of the HXS switches in the selected preset. If I were using my FCB1010/UNO to control the HXS I could configure the FCB Preset to send a PC# to select the HXS preset and also at the same time send CC#s/Values to set or match the Stomp switches on the HXS. Like the LL the FCB cannot receive MIDI. The LEDs on the FCB would reflect the status of the HXS footswitches not because the HXS is sending it messages, but because that is handled internally on the FCB by the UNO chip. The LL, AFAICT, does not have this ability.

They're not sending "bypass status" automatically by default, but they can be configured to do so using MIDI It's only pointless because the LL doesn't receive MIDI. Are we talking about different things?

One thing I found that helped when using a tube amp - I've had two (an Engl and an Egnater) and only one (the Engl) had that problem - was to use the SEND on FX Loop 1 set to INST, and the RETURN on FX Loop 2 set to LINE. Might not fix your problem, but worth a try.

Yes and no. While HX devices do not AUTOMATICALLY send a MIDI message re stomp on/off status, if you assign a toggling MIDI CC to a stomp in ControlCenter, that message will be sent on preset load. I use this method all the time with VSTs. The problem with the Live Logic controller is that it does not RECEIVE MIDI, so this method cannot work. The MIDI IN on the LL is only there to provide daisy chain capability.

If you've read my posts about "What's Not in the Pilot's Guide" you know that the Catalyst is not without design flaws. The functions of the FX Loop are not a design flaw. It just doesn't work the way you want it to. L6 is in no way required to do things the same way as the competition, nor are they required to explain why they didn't. They are only required to issue a manual (IIRC in 27 languages!) explaining what they DID do. It is unreasonable to expect a technical documentation writer to anticipate every possible scenario in which a device might be used. They can only be expected to provide directions for the INTENDED use. Before buying a high-tech device, it is the responsibility of the prospective buyer to perform "due diligence" by downloading and reading whatever manuals and technical documentation is available. If something is not clear re the applicability of the device to the desired outcome, they then contact the manufacturer's pre-sale support service. IOW - call and ask! If, in spite of a buyer's best efforts, it turns out that the device does not serve it's intended application, they either return it or sell it and move on. In the US most vendors have a 30-45 day no-questions-asked return window. As I understand it, in some parts of the world the return rules are different, usually more liberal but sometimes non-existent. If you buy something used from a private source (or there's no return policy) then the rules are different: Caveat Emptor - "Let the buyer beware" - the principle that the buyer alone is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before a purchase is made. You, and the other poster with this problem, had ample time both before and after purchase to figure out that the Catalyst was not suitable to the task of using a looper in the FX loop THE WAY YOU WANT TO USE IT. Not that it CAN'T be used, it just can't be used the way you want to use it. That you didn't return it at that point is on you, NOT on L6. Coming on here and blaming L6 for your mistake is unreasonable. Your inability to accept this is the cause of the "nerves(?)" as you put it. If you have specific questions about how the amp handles presets that are not addressed in my posts re "What's NOT in the Pilot's Guide" I'll be happy to answer them, as I've answered (or attempted to answer) all of your other questions.

I think I answered this elsewhere, but same answer here. Your controller SENDS MIDI, but it does not RECEIVE MIDI.

With all of the amp choices in Helix, you can't find an amp which, maybe with a bit of EQ, comes close enough to the "amp blend" to make it work? If not, you're either getting an external IR loader of changing a lot of presets to accommodate a few.

People are telling you that you're the one with the problem because of your attitude that it's L6's fault that you bought the wrong tool for the job. They clearly stated in the original marketing campaign that you should NOT attempt to use this amp with 3rd party Loopers placed in the FX Loop. Oh, wait, they DIDN'T say that! THAT'S why it's THEIR fault! They didn't design it with YOUR specific needs in mind! How short sighted could they be! I'm glad you found a work around, but DUDE! GET OVER YOURSELF! It is NOT a flaw in the design and L6 is NOT going to redesign the amp to meet your needs. It is exactly what it was intended to be. Sell the amp and get one that EXACTLY meets your requirements! And FWIW - insulting other forum members by saying we have anger issues when it's YOUR misplaced anger that we're responding to is as silly as blaming L6 for your failure to properly research the product before you bought it.

I posted a link in my previous reply that explains it. Did you check out that link? Here it is again: How to set optimal recording levels in your DAW (guitarpointers.com)

As I said, I primarily use my Helix to control the Cat, and for the minimum functions mentioned, between direct FS assignments and Snapshots the HXFX should be entirely sufficient unless you insist on "kitchen sink" presets. I would wait until I got the HXFX.

It's called a "MIDI Floor Controller". The Melo Audio/Harley Benton MIDI Commander is probably the best bang-for-the-buck at $149 for 8 switches. EDIT: Just looked at the manual - no GUI. Not a deal killer, but not ideal. You can get an FCB1010 dirt cheap and it will do the job, but it's big and ugly. Look for one used with the UNO Chip already installed. The Morningstar MC series is very popular and the most capable but a bit more expensive. All of the above will require programming, and all but the MIDI Commander have GUI Interfaces. I primarily use my Helix to control my Cat, but I could easily use my FCB1010/UNO if I wanted to. How much do you know about MIDI? It's not rocket science, but if you're not familiar with the BASIC MIDI commands (PC and CC) you should read up on them. The Catalyst offers extensive MIDI control, but practically speaking, you'll want to be able to switch Banks, switch Channels within Banks, and toggle the Boost, Effect and Reverb. I recommend that while you're waiting on delivery, you DL and read the Catalyst Pilot's Guide. You should also Google MIDI Basics. If you're considering the FCB1010 I can provide further info and assistance with that, even a complete program if you're specific about what you want to do.

My footswitches are 6 years old and still work fine. Just sayin".

Since none of the horrible bugs others have reported have affected me in any way whatsoever, I can happily say that I am totally SOOO looking forward to all of the sonic improvements they've been hinting at and any new amps/FX they include will I'M SURE be REALLY COOL! I am, like REALLY REALLY EXCITED! I can HARDLY WAIT! HURRY HURRY HURRY!!! :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-)

In the very near future we're expecting v3.2. There is no rational reason not to expect another couple of years of improvements, as they have stated unequivocally that the next generation of HW is not imminent. If you'd like to stay abreast of this, sign up at The Gear Page and keep track of the major threads re Helix in the Digital and Modeling Forum. Real people from Line6 hang out there. They DO NOT hang out here.