TEST: Line6 Spider V120

 It was always like that with Company Line6. 50% of all users love the products, 50% don't like them, but 100% know the name. As probably the best-known name in the modeling sector, the company stands for legendary products such as the first POD Modeller, which set new standards in operation and handling, but at the same time did not seriously compete with the “official” amps of the time in terms of sound, especially in the distorted area could. Well, times are changing and with the Helix series at the latest, Line6 has risen to third place among “amplifier imitators” after Kemper and Ax Fx. To round off the package, the Spider series has also received an update in the form of the MkII version, so that we have the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII for testing.

The construction of the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII

Thanks to Class D technology, power amplifiers with comparatively high outputs are no longer an issue. As expected, the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII has over 120 watts, which far exceeds the performance of a practice amplifier. The comparatively low retail price of 359 euros, on the other hand, leads to the assumption that the adult performance is a live bonus point, while the focus is much more towards flexible working as part of personal practice.

If the dimensions (271 mm x 510 mm x 490 mm) or the weight of just under 14 kg of the 120 watt version are too large / high for you, you will find correspondingly smaller versions of the amplifier in the Spider 60 and 30 versions, with only the 120 watt Versions upwards have a 12 inch speaker, which also generates a volume suitable for stage use. If the 120 watt version is too small for you, you can still use 240 watts as a combo or as a head. Who needs 240 watts of guitar power on stage? I have no idea, he will definitely get a red card from FOH and his colleagues.

In order to reflect the different emulations as neutrally as possible, Line6 has its own loudspeaker at the start, which has the difficult task of emulating a whole armada of speakers from Celestion, Electrovoice, Fane, JBL and who knows what else. In all the chaos of instruments, effects and amplifiers, it is easy to forget how much of a contribution the loudspeakers play to the final sound of the guitar signal. In order to score points in the acoustic area, the internally installed speaker is a full-range speaker, which also has an additional tweeter.

The workmanship of the amp is impeccable, but sometimes comes across as a little “plasticky”. For example, offer B. the ridiculously small feet have no grip on smooth surfaces due to their hard plastic design. Could be done better.

The emulations of the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII

As is well known, a modeler is characterized by the fact that he tries to imitate a well-known guitar sound as best as possible in terms of tone, dynamics and response. It should be clear to everyone that, especially with high-end amplifiers, whose complex interaction of their analog components always requires a compromise. A good modeler is characterized by the fact that the sound comes close to the original and, if possible, does not develop any life of its own. In return, it ensures as many different basic sounds as possible in order to be able to implement the widest possible repertoire of styles with just one amplifier.

Here Line6 draws on the full potential and, according to the operating instructions, delivers 78 amplifiers, 24 speakers, 4 microphone models, 101 effects, of which up to 8 can be accessed at the same time. The integration of an internal radio receiver is also practical in order to save a cable in collaboration with the Line6 Relay radio system.

Managing the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII

As befits a modern practice amp, the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII also has an extensive collection of ports to manage the amplifier with almost any type of device. In addition to 2 XLR outs, which ensure the signal is fed directly into mixers or interfaces, the back also offers 2 USB ports, which connect the Mac / PC / Android department via USB-B as well as the iPhone / iPad devices via USB-A covers. Appropriate software for managing the amplifier is available in the usual app shops. In order to control the amplifier in the classic way via a foot switch, the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII also offers the option of connecting an FBV pedal unit to the corresponding socket.

To manage the individual sounds on the amp, there are 5 multi-function controls plus a master volume control on the front. In the Amp area the controls cover the functions Drive, Bass, Mid, Treble and Volume, in the FX area Compressor, FX1, FX2, FX3 and Reverb. Depending on the effect type, the control labels light up in different colors, with modulation blue, delay green, overdrive orange and pitch/synth the color purple. If you press the Edit control in the Amp menu, you can edit the parameters accordingly. The small display is perfectly fine for quick editing on the amp, especially since the remote app offers a much more pleasant interface. To round off the practice requirements, the amp also has ready-made drum loops and a looper that can record up to 60 seconds.

The Line6 Spider V 120 MkII in practice

First of all, the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII has a significantly better sound compared to earlier models in the Spider series. The series has always been able to score comparatively well in the clean area, while the gap in quality became wider and wider as the distortion increased. This is no longer the case with the MkII version, although you should always keep the area of application and the price in mind.

As already mentioned, a modeler tries to get as close as possible to the original and this is exactly where the real problem lies. As with previous models, Line6 now uses direct references in the display when it comes to emulation to indirectly convey to the user what sound it should be. Although the protected trademarks are cleverly avoided in the naming, the names of what Marshall, Fender, Soldano or much more are supposed to be are clear. At least visually.

The sound that comes out of the speaker, especially with the distorted sounds, doesn't necessarily have to be bad, but it doesn't have much in common with the originals. This isn't a big deal, but it creates a latent disappointment in the user's expectations. Why not call a sound Crunch 1, 2, 3 or Fat Crunch or whatever, why put a JCM behind it, only to realize that neither the sound nor the corresponding playing feel comes close to the original. Don't misunderstand me, this statement doesn't mean that the sound is bad, it's just not a Marshall like you expect according to the ad. Of course, I understand the marketing departments of the manufacturers who rightly rely on the customer to read a familiar trademark before getting started, but in my opinion, as a model provider, you are cutting yourself into the flesh.

What Line6 starts with in terms of amp names in the first presets, the software unfortunately continues in terms of song sound names. Well-known titles are used here as a reference for the guitar sound, but that doesn't really apply. I can't recognize sounds from songs like "The Trooper" or "Iron Man" even with a high level of abstraction. Here too, not a really bad sound, but far from what we claim.

Be that as it may, the sound range of the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII is very extensive, with the clean and very crisp sounds particularly convincing. As the level of distortion increases, the amplifier loses some of its convincing power, although you should always keep in mind that the combo is a practice amp. The amp sounds really good for this range, especially since this performance can easily stand up to the rest of the band in the rehearsal room.

The sound files were recorded with an LP Standard and a Fame MS57.

Conclusion

With the Line6 Spider V 120 MkII, the most well-known modeling name in the scene offers a good practice amp, which can also easily make a good impression in the rehearsal room due to its high power reserves. The sound selection is very extensive, the editing options are extensive thanks to a very good remote app and the practical value is very high due to helpful bonus functions such as metronome, drum loops and looper. Anyone who can live with very good clean, good crunchy and acceptable high-gain sounds should definitely give the amp a try.

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Introduction:
Line 6, a pioneering force in the realm of musical equipment, has left an indelible mark on the world of amplifiers. With a rich history spanning over two decades, Line 6 has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology, crafting amplifiers that have become synonymous with innovation and versatility. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the captivating evolution of Line 6 amplifiers, tracing their origins, milestones, and the groundbreaking advancements that have shaped their trajectory.

The Genesis:
The story of Line 6 amplifiers begins in the late 1990s, amidst a landscape dominated by traditional tube amplifiers. Dissatisfied with the limitations of existing amplification technologies, a team of visionary engineers set out to revolutionize the industry. Drawing inspiration from the burgeoning digital revolution, they sought to harness the power of digital signal processing to create amplifiers that offered unparalleled flexibility and sonic fidelity.

The Birth of the POD:
At the heart of Line 6's innovation was the development of the POD, a groundbreaking amp modeling device that would lay the foundation for the company's future success. Launched in 1998, the original POD provided guitarists with a vast array of amp and effects simulations in a compact, portable unit. Its ability to replicate the tones of iconic amplifiers quickly garnered widespread acclaim, establishing Line 6 as a force to be reckoned with in the world of guitar technology.

The Advent of Spider Amplifiers:
Building upon the success of the POD, Line 6 ventured into the realm of amplifiers with the introduction of the Spider series in 1999. The Spider amplifiers represented a paradigm shift, combining cutting-edge digital modeling technology with traditional amplifier design. Featuring a diverse selection of amp models, onboard effects, and intuitive controls, the Spider series offered guitarists unprecedented versatility and convenience.

Continual Innovation:
With each subsequent iteration, Line 6 refined and expanded upon the capabilities of its amplifiers, incorporating feedback from musicians and advancing technology to new heights. The Spider II, released in 2004, introduced enhanced amp models and effects, further cementing Line 6's reputation for innovation. This was followed by the Spider III in 2006, which featured an intuitive user interface and improved sound quality.

The Revolution of the Line 6 DT Series:
In 2008, Line 6 joined forces with legendary tube amp designer Reinhold Bogner to create the DT series amplifiers. Blending the best of digital and analog technologies, the DT series offered guitarists the dynamic response and warmth of tube amplifiers, combined with the flexibility and convenience of digital modeling. This innovative fusion marked a significant milestone in Line 6's journey, earning acclaim from musicians and industry experts alike.

The Helix Era:
In 2015, Line 6 once again pushed the boundaries of innovation with the release of the Helix family of products. Representing the culmination of years of research and development, the Helix range encompassed a variety of amplifiers, multi-effects units, and software solutions, all designed to provide musicians with unparalleled creative freedom and sonic versatility. The Helix platform garnered widespread praise for its realistic amp and effects simulations, intuitive interface, and robust performance capabilities.

Beyond Amplifiers: Variax and Powercab:
In addition to its amplifiers, Line 6 has expanded its product lineup to include innovative solutions such as the Variax modeling guitars and Powercab speaker systems. The Variax guitars leverage advanced modeling technology to emulate a wide range of classic instruments, offering guitarists unprecedented tonal flexibility and creative potential. Meanwhile, the Powercab series delivers a dynamic and responsive platform for amplifying digital modelers, bridging the gap between traditional guitar cabs and full-range speaker systems.

Conclusion:
From its humble beginnings with the POD to its groundbreaking advancements with the Helix platform, Line 6 has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the world of guitar amplification. Through a relentless commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and sonic excellence, Line 6 has earned its place as a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring countless musicians and shaping the sound of modern music. As the journey continues, one thing remains certain: the evolution of Line 6 amplifiers is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and ingenuity in the pursuit of musical excellence.