Catalyst FX loop - line or instrument level?

[jeffboyer5]

I use the HXFX 4CM and need to match the level on the HXFX, but the amp is not configurable and the documentation does not detail the level of the send and return jacks.

[rd2rk]

I use Helix Floor, not HXFX, so YMMV.

 

This is how I set it up in 4cm:

 

Guitar>HELIX IN (INST)>HELIX SEND (INST)>AMP IN >AMP SEND>HELIX RETURN (LINE)>HELIX OUT (LINE)>AMP RETURN

 

Reasoning: The amp's INPUT expects an Instrument. The Sends and Returns are LINE Level. The Output is going to a poweramp IN, therefore LINE.*

These are general rules of how amps work. The ACTUAL levels of various amps' FX Loops vary wildly. That (I believe) is why Helix/HXFX Loops have LEVEL controls because, bottom line, the difference between INST/MIC/LINE is simply db/voltage level of the signal, and it's all about GAIN STAGING. Being able to set the level to INST/MIC/LINE just gets you in the ballpark.

 

In order to get these level settings I use two Helix FX Loops because the SEND/RETURN can't be configured separately.

IOW - FX Loop 1 set to INST; FX Loop 2 set to LINE

 

If you're using the FX unit simply in the amp's FX Loop, one FX Loop Block set to LINE is sufficient.*

 

*If you've got guitar stompboxes anywhere in the signal chain, they expect an INSTRUMENT level signal.