Input Levels Across Various Helixes inc Native

[scallybert]

Given that they're digital devices, I'm guessing it's a fair assumption that all Helixes sound and behave identically. [Fair ?]

 

I'm not so sure this would apply to the analogue inputs and outputs - maybe due to slight variations in components, etc.

 

Of these, the input is (to me) more interesting, as changes in the input levels effect the sound - just as the guitar volume control does.

 

Anyone have experience of plugging into different Helixes ? Are they, to all intents and purposes, identical ?

 

If so (and hopefully, so), what about Helix Native ?

 

The 'Native' is an exceptional case, here; as the input circuitry isn't part of the Helix; being something like a USB analogue I/O module, plugged into the host computer. It's also likely, that this input device will have a control to adjust the input level. eg the Scarlett Solo does, along with a level indicator, which provides a means to set this level.

 

So, is it realistic to set the input level, so the Helix Native configuration behaves identically to a physical Helix ? If so, how do you set the Solo (or such) input level control, to facilitate this ?

 

[j_hotch]

That's a bit tricky. I would think you would need a patch with nothing in it all - simply a pass-thru.  Then, load the patch onto a physical Helix unit,  plug in your guitar, set the input parameters you want and record it with your DAW.

 

Then, load the same patch into Helix Native, play your guitar into your audio interface and adjust the input gain of the interface until it records through the DAW at the same level. Make certain that you don't adjust any other recording parameters in the DAW while making the comparison.

[scallybert]

Yeah, I guess on that course, I could record a 're-amping' track with a physical Helix, and match the Solo recording level to that. 

[soundog]

With Helix Native, results can vary with the quality of the audio interface and how well it handles hi-z signals. Scarlett Solo should do a fine job. If you have your levels set properly on the interface, then its a matter of setting the input gain level in the Helix Native plug-in for peak levels no higher than -12dB.  If you're trying to match to Helix hardware, you can get the plug-in levels (and tones) to sound identical to naked ears.

[HonestOpinion]

On 5/1/2018 at 6:37 PM, scallybert said:

...

 

Anyone have experience of plugging into different Helixes ? Are they, to all intents and purposes, identical ?

 

...

 

I have not compared two Helices but I would say there is no guarantee that they will all be identical. Line6 has been known to change components from one batch run of their devices to another. Usually to address a defect but I suppose it could happen due to a part's availability as well. They just recalled a batch of HX Effects for a fix so it does happen. Not that unusual in the industry really. You see it done quite a bit with computers. Any given brand name computer for example can have a whole range of different components over the lifetime of one specific model with exactly the same configuration. Those changes may or may not result in a perceptible difference. I do wish companies were more forthcoming about these changes though. I don't think there is any guarantee that every part in a Helix purchased a week after initial release is the same as the ones being manufactured now unless Line6 states that that is the case.

[DunedinDragon]

I personally own two Helix floor units.  One that I use for live performances and one that is hooked up to my DAW and serves as a backup to my live unit.  They were purchased roughly a year apart and I can tell no difference when I switch from one to the other.