Transmitter, or cable after all? For many artists, this question only causes incredulous amazement, since in recent years the trend in signal transmission has developed exclusively in one direction, away from cable and towards radio transmission, at least when it comes to the instrument groups of vocals, strings and wind instruments. In other words, all instruments that can be used on stage.
The arguments are quickly listed, complete freedom of movement especially on large stages, better entertainment for the audience due to more diverse show interludes and the absolute security during the show on stage not to have to untangle any Gordian knots. Only recently at the show of my group DOMAIN at the Magic Circle Festival / Loreley open-air stage one could convince oneself of the advantages of a radio link, so both my singer and my bassist knew how to entertain the audience with an intensive stage presence, while I was somewhat restricted in terms of freedom with my cable.
"Yes, why cable?", many readers will ask themselves at this point at the latest, especially since I was the only protagonist during the entire festival operation who sent his signal through a massive conductor. While in the past arguments such as battery life or operational safety were still an issue, in recent years actually only one argument has remained, which divides the music making guild into two camps, the sound!
A guitar signal via a wireless link still sounds different in terms of dynamics and frequency response than via a regular cable. I deliberately choose the adjective "different", because a valuation in the form of "better" or "worse" is purely a matter of taste. However, the fact remains that a radio link transmits significantly more frequencies due to the lack of capacity of a cable and the guitar signal and the sound is more treble-heavy. In addition, the signal experiences a dynamic cut due to the conversion and reconversion in the radio range, which is reflected in a "condensed" sound image.
Aware of this procedure, the Line 6 company is trying to win over even the wireless skeptics with its Relay G30 and the slogan "Wired Tone, Wireless Freedom". I'm curious to see how this will be solved in terms of circuitry.
Construction
The Line 6 Relay G30 is a set, consisting of a transmitter, respectively receiver part and is assembled on the opposite side of the globe, in China. The transmitter can be easily attached to the belt, or the guitar strap by means of a firmly gripping clip. By means of a bulging hard rubber pad on the side, the transmitter lies well in the hand and can be pressed into the final position accordingly without any problems.
The transmitter is powered by two AA batteries, which should last for about 8 hours according to the manufacturer. The battery door is a bit tricky to lock, so you should check twice to make sure that the batteries don't spread evenly on the stage floor during the first rotation.
The matching receiver has, in contrast to many 9.5 inch rack variants, rather the shape of a floor effect unit, where it can probably be best placed by means of Velcro. A non-slip base to place the product on the amplifier, for example, and thus secure it against slipping away, is unfortunately not available.
The combination can choose from 6 fixed frequencies, which are selected via a chrome-imitated slider in each case. Unfortunately, both sliders are very clumsy in the user interface, so that you rarely hit the desired position on the first try. Another slider can be used to fix the desired cable sound emulation. The receiver is powered by the included 9V power supply.
Both products look nice, but a mechanically higher-quality detail solution would look good on both components.
Practice
Let's not beat around the bush and get right down to business, which means a direct comparison to a cable in terms of sound. In order not to make it too easy for the Relay G30, we don't choose a three-input no-name cheap crap cable, which can only lose in terms of sound anyway, but we choose an opponent from the signal league, in our case a cable from Cordial from the Road-Line series.
To make it more difficult for the cable, we take the 9 meter version and work exclusively with passive pickups, so that the capacity and resistance of the cable are also put through their paces sonically.
Let's first take the radio link without cable emulation. The transmitter sounds as expected, i.e. quite true to the original, but a bit undynamic and a bit treble-heavy, just as we know it from other radio links. There were no signal dropouts in the practical test and the manufacturer's specified range of up to 30 meters should also be sufficient for larger stages.
Now the competitor cable in a 1:1 comparison. Again, as expected, the sound is more voluminous, more dynamic, less compressed and lower in treble. Even though I personally like the sound of the cable more, it would be presumptuous to speak of "better", since the sound preferences are purely subjective up to this point.
If we now use the "Cable Tone", the tester is somewhat disappointed. It's not that the sound would drop to the bottomless pit, but what Line 6 presents as an emulation of a cable sound is rather a simple treble attenuation and a reduction of the dynamics, which increases even more with the further switching to 9 meters. Especially in direct comparison to the 9 meter Cordial cable, this is a world of difference.
Well, to be fair, it really has to be said that at a street price of less than 300 Euros, it's simply impossible to build up heavy emulation guns with processor support. Therefore, you should focus on the pure, "classic" radio link function, and this is what the product really does satisfactorily.
Already from the design of the receiver, I find the same in harmony with the other pedals on an appropriate floorboard in good hands, especially since I could not perceive any sonic radiation on other devices, even in close proximity.
Conclusion
With the Relay G30, Line 6 brings a simple transmitter/receiver constellation to the market, which fully fulfills its function as a radio link, but nothing more. The intention to emulate the interactive sound of a cable by means of technical circuit finesse may still be possible with an inferior cable, but the G30 can't hold a candle to a high-quality professional cable with its simple treble damping and dynamic compensation.
The interactions in the cable area are too complex to be emulated without a lot of CPU effort and algorithms. However, if you are looking for an inexpensive guitar radio link and don't need any complex detailed solutions in terms of equipment, you will find a practical partner in the product.
Just try it out in the store and place it on the floorboard if you are interested, this is where the Relay G30 makes the most sense in my opinion.
Additional informations:
- Line 6 is a renowned company that has made a significant impact on the music industry through its innovative products and cutting-edge technology. Since its inception in 1996, Line 6 has consistently pushed boundaries to provide musicians with groundbreaking solutions for amplification, effects processing, recording, and wireless systems. With a relentless commitment to quality and innovation, Line 6 has earned a reputation as a leading manufacturer of music technology worldwide.History and Founding: Line 6 was founded by Marcus Ryle and Michel Doidic, two visionaries who shared a passion for both music and technology. They recognized the limitations of traditional analog equipment and saw the potential in developing digital solutions that would revolutionize the way musicians create and perform. In 1996, Line 6 introduced the AxSys 212, the world's first modeling guitar amplifier, which garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for the company's future success.
Product Innovations: Line 6's product lineup spans a wide range of categories, catering to the needs of guitarists, bassists, vocalists, and recording professionals. The company's most notable innovation is its groundbreaking modeling technology. Line 6 developed the POD, a series of guitar amp modelers and multi-effects processors that allow musicians to replicate the sounds of iconic amplifiers and effects pedals with exceptional accuracy, all in a compact and portable unit.
Building on the success of the POD, Line 6 expanded its product range to include the Variax series of electric guitars. The Variax guitars incorporate advanced digital modeling technology, enabling players to emulate the sounds of different vintage instruments. This innovation provides musicians with unmatched versatility, allowing them to switch between various guitar models and tones seamlessly.
Line 6's commitment to wireless technology led to the creation of the Relay series of digital wireless systems. These systems deliver high-quality audio with excellent reliability and a broad frequency range, allowing musicians to move freely on stage without sacrificing sound quality. This advancement addressed the limitations and interference issues associated with traditional analog wireless systems.
The Helix series represents Line 6's latest breakthrough in guitar processors and effects. The Helix offers an intuitive user interface and a vast library of amp and effects models, providing guitarists with unprecedented control over their sound. Its seamless integration of hardware and software has made the Helix a popular choice among professional musicians and recording engineers worldwide.
Industry Impact and Partnerships: Line 6's innovative products have had a profound impact on the music industry, influencing the way musicians create, perform, and record music. By providing musicians with access to a vast array of sounds in a single device, Line 6 has democratized the world of guitar tones and effects, empowering artists of all levels to explore new sonic territories.
The company has also formed partnerships with renowned artists, such as Steve Vai, Peter Frampton, and John 5, who have embraced Line 6's technology and contributed to its development. These collaborations have not only helped Line 6 refine its products but have also provided invaluable insights into the needs and expectations of professional musicians.
Additionally, Line 6's technology has found its way into recording studios, live performances, and educational institutions worldwide. The company's digital audio processing capabilities have been integrated into popular recording software, enabling producers and engineers to access high-quality virtual guitar rigs and effects. Many music schools and conservatories have also incorporated Line 6 products into their curriculum, providing students with hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.
Continued Innovation: Line 6 remains at the forefront of music technology innovation, continually striving to provide musicians with groundbreaking tools. The company is dedicated to advancing its modeling algorithms and expanding its product range to meet the evolving needs of musicians in an ever-changing industry. Line 6's commitment to innovation ensures that musicians can continue to explore new creative possibilities and achieve their desired sound.
Conclusion: Line 6 has firmly established itself as a leader in the music technology industry, thanks to its relentless commitment to innovation, quality, and meeting the needs of musicians. Through its groundbreaking modeling technology, wireless systems, and advanced guitar processors, Line 6 has transformed the way musicians create, perform, and record music. As the company continues to push the boundaries of technology, we can expect Line 6 to shape the future of music technology and inspire musicians worldwide.
- Guitar wireless systems have revolutionized the way guitarists perform, providing them with the freedom to move and perform without the constraints of cables. These devices have become an essential tool for musicians, enabling them to showcase their skills on stage without compromising their mobility. In this comprehensive report, we will explore the history, features, benefits, and advancements of guitar wireless systems, highlighting their significant impact on live performances and the music industry as a whole.
History and Evolution: The concept of wireless guitar systems dates back to the 1960s when musicians started experimenting with radio transmitters and receivers to transmit their guitar signals wirelessly. However, early systems suffered from limited range, signal interference, and poor sound quality. It wasn't until the late 1970s and early 1980s that significant advancements in technology led to the development of more reliable and robust wireless systems specifically designed for guitars.
Features and Functionality: Guitar wireless systems consist of two main components: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter is typically connected to the guitar, while the receiver is connected to the amplifier or audio system. The transmitter captures the audio signal from the guitar and wirelessly transmits it to the receiver, which then converts it back into an audio signal that can be amplified or processed.
Modern wireless systems offer a range of features to enhance the overall performance experience. These include:
Frequency Selection: Wireless systems operate on various frequency bands, allowing users to select the best frequency range for their location to minimize interference and ensure optimal signal quality.
Range: Wireless systems offer varying ranges, allowing guitarists to move freely on stage without worrying about signal loss or degradation. Higher-end systems provide extended range capabilities, ensuring reliable performance even in larger venues.
Signal Quality: Advanced wireless systems employ technologies to preserve the integrity of the guitar's tone and minimize latency. These systems utilize digital audio transmission and advanced signal processing algorithms to deliver pristine audio quality, rivaling the sound of traditional cable connections.
Battery Life: Wireless systems are powered by rechargeable batteries, offering extended battery life to withstand long performances and rehearsals. Some systems even provide real-time battery status monitoring to ensure uninterrupted operation.
Benefits of Guitar Wireless Systems: Guitar wireless systems offer numerous benefits to musicians, both on stage and during rehearsals. These benefits include:
Freedom of Movement: Perhaps the most significant advantage of wireless systems is the freedom to move and perform without being tethered to cables. Guitarists can explore the stage, interact with the audience, and engage in energetic performances without the limitations of a physical connection.
Enhanced Stage Presence: Wireless systems enable guitarists to focus on their performance and stage presence rather than worrying about tripping over cables or getting tangled up. This freedom allows for more dynamic and visually captivating live shows.
Seamless Collaborations: Wireless systems facilitate seamless collaborations among band members. Musicians can freely move around and interact with each other, promoting better communication and coordination during live performances.
Setup and Portability: Wireless systems eliminate the need for lengthy cable setups, simplifying stage setup and reducing the risk of cable malfunctions. Moreover, the portability of wireless systems makes them ideal for touring musicians and performers who require quick and easy setup in different venues.
Advancements and Future Trends: Guitar wireless systems continue to advance with the integration of new technologies and features. Some notable advancements include:
Digital Transmission: Digital wireless systems have become increasingly popular, offering improved sound quality, enhanced range, and resistance to interference compared to analog systems.
Frequency Diversity: Advanced wireless systems now incorporate frequency diversity technology, which uses multiple frequencies simultaneously to minimize signal dropouts and improve overall reliability.
Integration with Effects and Apps: Some wireless systems now offer integration with effects pedals and mobile apps, allowing guitarists to control and manipulate their sound wirelessly.
Miniaturization: Wireless systems have become more compact and lightweight, making them less obtrusive and easier to integrate into a guitarist's setup.
Conclusion: Guitar wireless systems have transformed live performances by providing musicians with the freedom to move and express themselves without the constraints of cables. Through advancements in technology, these systems have significantly improved in terms of signal quality, reliability, and overall performance. With ongoing developments and integration with other music technologies, wireless systems will continue to play a crucial role in empowering musicians to deliver electrifying live shows and reshape the way music is experienced.
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