Digital_Igloo

Snapshots are controllers, so I suppose it's "snapshot or other controller."

Hooboy, lots to unpack here. We have a massive list of features we want to get to. Some features will eventually manifest themselves but many will not, based on IdeaScale submissions, development scope, and a dozen other factors. Once we got through the mountain of code to get Helix to control Powercab, it was much easier to get it to also control DT50/DT25. The 2019 DT user base (who also owns Helix and cares enough about L6 LINK functionality but can't be bothered to connect a MIDI cable) has never been underestimated; it's exactly as small as we know it is. The number of users who've connected three DTs to HD500 via L6 LINK could probably have been counted on one hand; the number who've connected four DTs to HD500 is likely zero. L6 LINK is, and always has been: an audio streaming and communication protocol L6 LINK is not, nor has it ever been: a set of features a workflow Just like two different synths utilize MIDI in different ways, Helix and HD500 utilize L6 LINK in different ways. (StageScape M20d and StageSource speakers used L6 LINK differently from HD500 and DTs as well, back in 2010! For example, you could remotely control a StageSource speaker's hidden 31-band graphic EQ remotely from StageScape.) First of all, HD500 had two fixed amp block locations, each with a fixed set of tonestack knobs. Therefore, there was an intrinsic connection between HD amps in POD and the HD amps in DT. Not so with Helix, which can have anywhere from zero to four HX-level amps, many with disparate parameters (and number of parameters!). There's also Helix's signal routing, which is vastly more flexible than HD500. Supporting the exact same workflow as HD500 would mean we'd have to dumb down Helix, and that simply wasn't going to happen. And don't get me started on how confusing POD <—> DT L6 LINK functionality was to our users back in the day. CS has hundreds of horror stories. I've talked about how L6 LINK in Helix was going to be different many times, years before we even announced it was coming in 2.80. It's not my job to chase you around the web to make sure you read my posts, nor is it my job to find you links. And unless you're playing contrarian for contrarian's sake, chances are you'll vastly prefer the new methodology. It's consistent with how both Variax and Powercab remote functionality works, and lets you do so much more, without having to repeatedly dig into a Setup menu.

The Output block's Level parameter is probably the most transparent place to level presets, but if you don't have Dynamics blocks after your amp, there's a good chance you can just turn the Amp's Channel Volume knob. (It's completely transparent and doesn't affect the amp tone in any way.) This is how I quickly level my presets in the studio: Press the AMP button and turn Knob 6 (Ch Vol). Press SAVE twice. Switch to an adjacent preset and repeat steps 1 and 2. Rinse and repeat. IMPORTANT! Meters do NOT help when leveling presets; in fact, they often make preset level jumps WORSE, because they lack the ability to compensate for how perceived loudness is often radically affected by your playback system's frequency response, playback volume, acoustics, location of your ears with regard to playback system, whether you're playing with other musicians, how close they are, what notes they're playing at any given point in the song, etc. If you play live, the ONLY way to properly level presets is at the venue, playing at gig level, with the band, with your ears. No amount of technology will give you a free lunch.

A really good friend used to work for Positive Grid, and I have nothing bad to say about them, but... Helix's models use up notably more instructions per second than BIAS models Helix's full throughput latency is significantly lower, and is designed for real time performance and control Hardware DSPs are not CPUs Line 6 has been very careful to always say "up to 6 blocks." If a "6 blocks" instance snuck out, I apologize, and will make sure we change it. Also, HX Stomp isn't underpowered as much as it's... nuanced and flexible. The alternatives are all way more egregious: Provide fewer block locations AND/OR Create fixed "chunks" where a preset allows for only one of each type of block AND/OR Only support specific and limited groups of effects (Distortion+EQ+Delay or Distortion+EQ+Reverb but not Distortion+Delay+Reverb, etc.) Completely remove any models that are too DSP-intensive to fit AND/OR Strip the models way back so they fit, but don't sound nearly as good AND/OR Other stuff, like distortions and dynamics are always mono, cabs are always single, amps and cabs are separate blocks, etc. Also note that if we ever add polyphonic pitch models, running out of DSP will happen quicker and more often, as they take up a LOT of horsepower. I have an unfinished blog about fixed vs. semi-fixed vs. dynamic DSP allocation if you'd like to know more. PM me your email and I'll send it your way.

It's always worked fine; there's never been anything to fix. To be honest, the ROI for robust DT support in Helix probably wasn't there (purely due to the relatively few users it would affect vs., say, something like snapshots), but doing the work for Powercab meant DT support was able to come along for the ride. So every DT owner should thank a Powercab owner. The reason L6 LINK doesn't work like POD HD500 is... Helix isn't POD HD500. Implementation is different, but most should find it way more useful, comprehensive, and MUCH easier to grok. Here's a list of Output block parameters, as of this morning's beta: Page 1—Pan, Level Page 2—Powercab Remote (Off, Per Preset, Global), Powercab Mode, Flat Voicing, Speaker Select (Powercab 1, Powercab 2, 1+2 Link), Speaker Type, Speaker DI Mic Page 3—Speaker Mic Distance, Speaker User IR, Speaker Low Cut, Speaker Hi Cut, Speaker Flat Level, Speaker LED Color Page 4—DT25/50 Remote (Off, Per Preset, Global), DT Select (DT 1, DT2, 1+2 Link), DT Channel (A [Helix], B [DT Pre]), DT Topology, DT Power Amp, DT Tube Config Page 5—DT Reverb (Off, On), DT Reverb Mix, DT 12AX7 Boost, DT Feedback Cab, DT B+ Voltage All parameters can be assigned to controllers and snapshots.

HD500X would certainly fit that description. However: There were DSP sourcing issues (a faster DSP came out at the same price and IIRC, the old one was discontinued) Line 6 in 2019 is VERY DIFFERENT from Line 6 in 2013, independent of the Yamaha acquisition It's not up to me—though how I wish it was—but I can say with great confidence that no one on Team Helix has any interest in working on a new flagship that anyone in their right mind might perceive as an "incremental upgrade." We're in it to: stay ahead of the copycat companies by implementing stuff they simply cannot pull off (due to Line 6/Yamaha/Ampeg patents, domain knowledge, development schedule, or sheer audacity) drop jaws soil pants

Technically, there's no reason why all sorts of things can't be done. The question is, and always has been, "is the effort required to do X worth shifting time and resources from Y?" Items designated as Y are taken directly from IdeaScale, so that's always your best bet.

Updated thread to 2.80 (slated for release Spring 2019)

https://shop.line6.com/software/helix-native.html

I can add it to the backlog, but it'll get looked at sooner if there's an IdeaScale item to link to.

If Helix's screen reads "Rebuilding preset XXX..." it's going through all the presets and making sure they aren't affected by any under-the-hood improvements we do to models or the underlying architecture. It should only happen once per update, and then you're back to the normal boot time.

Maybe if you're not privy to Line 6's strategy. I happen to neck deep in it, so let's bite: VDI is really expensive. Adding VDI to Stomp would instantly force us to charge $50 more. (Not that VDI is automatically a $50 proposition, but the way price points work with regard to margin, you're typically targeting a specific COGS that ensures you don't tip over the edge to the next price point, which in this case, would be $649). So this one's important: The number of Variax users who would be willing to spend an extra $50 for VDI is tiny compared the number of non-Variax users who would AVOID buying HX Stomp because it's $50 more. We have the metrics to back this up, so don't think I'm pulling this out of thin air VDI (both the ethercon jack and related circuitry) is really large. Adding VDI to Stomp would totally blow up its footprint. The entire product is no longer a stompbox—it's a smaller modeler. That flies in the face of its number two design pillar: Must be no larger than the average large-ish stompbox on a pedalboard. And similar to above, the number of Variax users who would be willing to deal with the extra footprint is tiny compared to the number of non-Variax users who would avoid buying HX Stomp because it wasn't quite stompbox-sized VDI is power-hungry. Adding VDI would preclude the ability to power HX Stomp from third-party external DC power supplies HX Stomp is a stompbox. "Micro Helix" is but one of its many use cases VDI was never in the cards for HX Stomp.

Updated thread to 2.70 (released October 17, 2018).

HX STOMP FAQ That thing looks small. Is it small? Considering the amount of hardware inside, HX Stomp is practically microscopic—its footprint is smaller than a Line 6 M5 pedal, and pretty much identical to that of a three-switch Strymon. We spent a stupid amount of time and effort cramming massive power into a tiny chassis. It’ll even fit into the small top pocket on Helix Backpack. Helix Backpack was out in 2015. That pocket was designed for HX Stomp all along? Maaaayyybe? Okay, we agree that it’s small, but what IS it? At the risk of hyperbole, HX Stomp may be the most powerful and flexible compact stompbox ever made. It can replace multiple pedals on your board (so you have room for more!). It can act as the ultimate travel or backup guitar/bass rig—except it may provide enough simultaneous amps and effects to be your main guitar/bass rig. It can be used to expand the DSP/model set of existing pro modelers; throw it in your Kemper, Fractal, or Atomic’s effects loop to add all Helix amps and effects. It’s also a world-class portable guitar recording interface with digitally-controlled analog impedance circuits, zero-latency monitoring, multichannel re-amping, and headphone amp. (One might suggest it’s the perfect front end for the Helix Native plug-in.) HX Stomp is whatever you want it to be, wherever you want it to be. How does it sound compared to Helix? Aside from the maximum number of simultaneous effects and amps—six blocks total—HX Stomp sounds identical to Helix. They have the same effects, amps, cabs, IR loading, 24-bit/192kHz A/D/A converters, analog impedance circuits, and patented guitar ins with 123dB of dynamic range. HX Effects is the same price. How is HX Stomp different? HX Effects is designed to be the centerpiece of your pedalboard, giving you full control over individual Line 6 effects, your MIDI-equipped pedals, and your amp switching. HX Stomp is a programmable amps+cabs/IRs+effects stompbox that seamlessly integrates into a wide variety of environments and applications. TL;DR: HX Effects is for amp and pedalboard guys, HX Stomp is for modeling guys… but amp and pedalboard guys might love it too! What ins and outs does it have? Left/Mono and Right 1/4” Inputs—switchable between instrument and line for use with passive guitars/basses, active guitars/basses, keyboards, synths, drum machines, electric nose flutes, and more Left/Mono and Right 1/4” Outputs—balanced/unbalanced for feeding amps, FRFR speakers, or the front-of-house mixer Stereo 1/4” TRS Send—with a Y cable, two separate mono effects loops (or one stereo effects loop) can be accommodated Left/Mono and Right 1/4” Returns—globally switchable to act as an always-on Aux In for monitoring mixers or MP3 players 1/4” stereo headphone out 1/4” EXP 1/2, FS4/5 Input—can accommodate two expression pedals, two additional footswitches, one of each, or the Mission Helix pedal with toe switch (https://shop.line6.com/promotions/pedals/mission-expression-pedal-for-line-6-products.html) MIDI In and Out/Thru USB—for recording to/jamming along with Macs, PCs, iPads, and iPhones. (iPads and iPhones require the Apple Camera Connection Kit.) HX Stomp can feed both stereo paths into your computer—along with dry versions for reamping—simultaneously DC In Wait. How did you fit all that into something the size of two Tube Screamers? Black sparkle magic. I hate editing little pedals with screens. How easy is HX Stomp to use? Very. WATCH THESE VIDEOS (around 10 minutes total) and you’ll be a master: line6.com/meet-hx-stomp The full manual should be up shortly too: line6.com/support/manuals/hxstomp How’s the build quality? Won’t you mess with the knobs when you stomp on it? HX Stomp is built into a sturdy die-cast aluminum alloy case with the same footswitches and metal knobs from Helix. If you’re still worried, note that while in Play view, the four knobs closest to the switches are disabled. How can I do anything with only three switches? You can do a lot with three switches, but if you really need more, two additional external switches can be connected. HX Stomp also responds to a wide variety of MIDI commands, and any block or parameter can learn (or be manually assigned to) an incoming CC message. Plus, from the main Play view, you can press <PAGE/PAGE> or an external footswitch to select one of four footswitch modes on the fly. Does HX Stomp have true analog bypass? Yes. You may choose either analog bypass or DSP bypass with trails. To bypass everything press the upper and lower knobs together (or assign a footswitch to All Bypass). Is there a Looper? HX Stomp includes a mono or stereo 1 Switch Looper that can be placed anywhere in the signal flow. Can it do 4-Cable Method? Yes, and 7-Cable Method for stereo rigs. After hooking everything up, just add an FX Loop block to your tone; any blocks before the FX Loop will appear before your real amp’s preamp and any blocks after the FX Loop will appear between your real amp’s preamp and power amp sections. There are even 4-Cable Method presets to get you started. (Note the “4CM” presets won’t pass audio unless everything’s hooked up correctly!) Is there an editor? Yes. It uses the same HX Edit application as Helix Floor, Helix Rack/Control, Helix LT, and HX Effects, except with 126 presets and a simplified signal flow. Just update both HX Stomp’s firmware and HX Edit to 2.70. Both should be available very soon. Can HX Stomp load Helix Floor, Helix Rack/Control, Helix LT, or HX Effects presets? As long as the preset has six or fewer blocks, you can use HX Edit 2.70 (available soon) to access both devices at once and copy and paste blocks back and forth. Rebuilding a Helix preset in HX Stomp shouldn’t take more than 30 seconds. Can HX Stomp presets be loaded into the Helix Native plug-in? Not currently, but individual blocks can be copied and pasted between HX Edit 2.70 and Helix Native 1.70. Again, rebuilding an HX Stomp preset in Helix Native shouldn’t take more than 30 seconds. I know a bunch of us wanted something smaller than Helix LT, but did you have to make it THAT small? < disapproving side-eye > From the beginning, we understood that for HX Stomp to navigate the widest ocean of adopters (pedalboard guitarists, traveling guitarists, bassists, buskers, keyboardists, producers, fans of desktop PODs, curious Pedalboards of Doom members who post anti-modeling memes, etc.), it needed to be extremely versatile and almost obnoxiously portable. That meant squeezing it into a tough-as-nails pedal—not a slightly smaller traditional floor modeler—yet never sacrificing any sound quality or what it means to be Helix/HX. Yeah, but that honkin’ huge DC-3G power supply is like a third the size of the entire pedal! The power supply is large, yes. To ensure the same signal integrity of its bigger brothers, we needed a burly power supply. That said, these two seem to work just fine: Strymon Zuma R300—Appears to work fine when doubling up TWO 9V outputs Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 4x4—Appears to work fine when doubling up TWO 9V outputs Can HX Stomp run on batteries? No. The chassis gets a bit warm after a while. Is that normal? Yes. HX Stomp isn’t a budget modeler—it’s a hardcore, professional solution with four circuit boards (one with 12 layers) crammed with serious analog and digital circuitry that happens to have been meticulously squeezed into a tiny chassis. It’s gonna put off a bit of heat. Totally normal. If you connect all the jacks on the sides, it kinda looks like an octopus. The most commonly used jacks are all on the back. Besides, octopuses are awesome. Have you seen them open jars? Excuse me, but the plural of octopus is octopi. http://lmgtfy.com/?q=plural+of+octopus Dimensions/weight? Including the jacks, 7”w x 5”d x 2.5”h; 1.75 lbs. What’s the price? $599.99 US street. When is HX Stomp available? Now.

No problems here either. QA tests with public betas as soon as they're available, so you should be good to go.

To be fair, we announced Helix Floor, Rack, and Control all at the same time. Nearly all parameters available from the Home screen can be assigned to the expression pedal (including Input/Variax, Output, Split, and Merge parameters) with min and max values per parameter. As soon as you assign the 64th parameter, Helix will tell you you're done. Also don't forget that it's WAY faster to use the shortcut: Press and hold the parameter knob you want to control. Press Knob 6 (Learn Controller) and then move the expression pedal. OPTIONAL: Set Min Value and Max Value as desired; swap Min and Max to reverse control. Press HOME when done.

Helix Rack/Control > Apogee Symphony > Logic > Helix Native.

There's no Helix 2 currently in development.

Updated thread to 2.60 (released July 2, 2018).

2.60 is currently in beta.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, Helix was designed to act as the centerpiece of one's rig; it was not designed to replace every component in someone's rig. If a formant filter is mission crucial, we've provided multiple ways to incorporate it into Helix's signal flow.

COOL. I like it!

What are snapshots? Imagine you have eight pet octopuses, all slithering around your amp and pedalboard. Instead of tap-dancing on your pedals (and accidentally stepping on a tentacle), you shout "Okay, gang—here's the verse... now!" and your octopuses turn some pedals on, turn other pedals off, and tweak all your amps and pedals' knobs to make the best possible settings for your song's verse, all seamlessly with spillover delay and reverb trails. Then you shout "Ready for the chorus... now!" and your octopuses instantly tweak everything for your song's chorus. The only thing your octopuses can't do is rearrange your pedalboard or swap out an effect or amp for a different one. Each preset can have up to 64 parameters assigned to Snapshots; hence, eight octopuses with eight tentacles each. The octopuses can remember eight separate groups of on/off statuses and setting tweaks per preset (say, for your verse, chorus, solo, overindulgent noise segue, etc.); that is, Helix has eight snapshots per preset. Each of the eight snapshots in Helix stores and recalls the state of certain elements in the current preset, including: Effect Bypass—The bypass (on/off) state of all processing blocks (except Loopers) Parameter Control—The values of any parameters assigned to controllers (up to 64 per preset) To make a parameter Snapshot-controllable, PRESS AND TURN the parameter's knob. The value will appear white and in brackets. To remove Snapshot control, hold BYPASS and press the parameter's knob. The brackets will disappear. Command Center—The values of any instant commands and the on/off states of any toggle commands assigned to switches (such as Amp Control messages) Tempo—The current system tempo, if "Global Settings > MIDI/Tempo" > Tempo Select is set to "Per Snapshot." (By default, it's set to "Per Preset.") Depending on how you set them up, snapshots can act as eight variations of the same tone, eight drastically different tones, or any combination thereof—all within the same preset. In many cases, a single preset's snapshots may accommodate all the various tones required for a song.

Updated thread to 2.53 (released March 1, 2018).

Updated thread to 2.52 (released Feb 22, 2018).