It sounds like you've been through a frustrating experience with your Line 6 Helix setup. It's disappointing when a piece of equipment doesn't work as expected, especially when you've invested time and money into it. It's understandable that you're upset and questioning the reliability of Line 6 products, especially given your previous issues with the JTV-89 and HD500X.
The lack of a clear solution or timeframe for fixing the problem with the AES connection adds to the frustration. It's concerning that Line 6 hasn't addressed this issue promptly, especially considering their reputation in the industry. The fact that some users report no issues with their units while others experience problems suggests that there may be more to the issue than just a firmware issue.
Ultimately, trust in a company's products and support is crucial, especially when you're relying on them to fuel your creativity as a composer and musician. Hopefully, Line 6 will address these concerns and provide a satisfactory resolution for you and other affected users.