TEST: Line6 Helix Rack

Along with the competitors Kemper and Axe Fx, the Line6 Helix is one of the three major guitar processors, which has greatly changed the approach to guitar sounds both in live and studio use and have driven countless traditional amplifier manufacturers into insolvency, respectively, massive drops in sales recorded. Especially in combination with an Inear System and the "Silent Stage" that often goes along with it, especially in the heavy scene, you can find the same systems with 80% of all musicians on stage by now, because with increasing gain the departure from the once "normal" signal flow seems to increase. In the project studio, on the other hand, the same processors have probably already reached almost 100%, since a good recording room and the elaborate miking are usually beyond the budget. With the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor, the matching rack version of the floor version is now available, which was delivered with the matching Line6 Helix Control footswitch for testing.

The concept of the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor

Even if it is old hat for many users, here again the main differences to a traditional guitar signal transmission boiled down to the essentials. While in the live area a traditional pickup basically tries to blow up the sound of a band in the rehearsal room by means of miking to different venues, a guitar processor relies on simulating all parameters like amp type, speaker cabinet and microphone in an impulse response (IR) environment and transferring it directly to the PA or monitor / inear system. In doing so, one tries to copy the complex interaction of the guitar with the individual components of the signal path as well as possible, which ultimately determines the quality of the copy.

In the studio, on the other hand, it is primarily the time aspect that comes into play. The optimal setup of a perfect guitar copy takes a lot of time, and you also have to take into account the upfront costs such as various pedals, amps, cabinets, speakers and microphones along with cabling. In the end, it is convenience that has contributed to the great success of processors and also makes it possible to forgive one or the other cut in the direct sound comparison to the original. As was the case many years ago in the keyboard sector (who still hauls around a Hammond or a piano for an organ / piano sound today?), artificial sound design has now finally made its way into the guitar sector.

The construction of the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor

The China-made Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor comes in a massive 3U chassis and is impeccably crafted. However, with dimensions: 48.26 cm x 13.34 cm x 24.13 cm and a weight of 4.2 kg, the product is still very easy to handle. The modeling engine of the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor has a total of 45 amps, 30 cabinets, 16 microphones and 70 effects, all of which have a very good menu navigation and can be edited again in many ways. Despite the many editing options, the product gets by with comparatively few knobs and switches, which speaks for the programming of the system. Just 10 knobs plus 9 pushbuttons guide through the entire menu of the system.

The matching Line6 Helix Control footswitch unit, which can be purchased separately for €349, is connected with an approx. 7-meter CAT 5 cable, which also supplies the footswitch with its power. In the studio, the RJ45 plugs may do their job well, but for stage use, this plug variant is to be enjoyed with great caution. Lacking hold in the socket, quick contamination and above all the insufficient mechanical load capacity have always excluded this plug variant from professional stage operation. Although the amount of switching processes can no longer be handled with TRS plugs, in my opinion at least a DIN plug, or better yet XLR would have made sense here.

Otherwise, the quality of the footswitch is of the finest. A solid metal housing, illuminated switches, connection possibilities for up to 4 expression pedals, USB connection and a separate mains connection, if the voltage cannot be supplied by the rack unit, leave a very good impression. Due to the 19 inch dimensions, you can also store the footswitch very nicely in a matching rack.

To what extent the 25% more expensive rack / foot switch version is superior to the floor version is something that everyone has to answer for themselves and essentially depends on the area of application in live operation. In studio use, however, the rack variant can clearly score points, which is not least due to the back of the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor, which comes with an above-average range of connection options. A total of 10 inputs and 12 outputs, including 4 FX loops, 2 analog inputs (TRS and XLR), MIDI In / Out, a buffered Guitar Thru and the connection for a Variax guitar, if you have one, allow comprehensive mounting in every respect. In addition, a digital management of the upper class in the form of AES / EBU, SPDIF and VDI interfaces along with an 8 In / 8 Out USB audio interface is used.

In practice

The handling of the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor in Quick mode is very good, connect the instrument, select the preset and start playing. Line6 only tries to discreetly allude to the models that they have tried to copy, which brings us directly to the actual topic. Even though the programmers have really put a lot of effort into the interface, editing options, IRs and much more, the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor is far from being a complete replacement for a perfectly microdefined amp in terms of sound.

The basic sound of the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor always seems a bit busy and lacks the interaction between the individual components that makes a good all-tube amp, or even transistor amp like H&K's BS 200 series. Despite significant improvements over the years and a sonic quantum leap to the POD quality day system does not quite reach the self-set goals. The processor sounds "striving" to get as close to the originals as possible, but any components down to the microphone emulation are only ever achieved with a certain level of authenticity.

Once the initial outcries have died down, here's the explanation for my assessment. The processor itself is extremely flexible and will be quite sufficient on many occasions to produce a good, practical sound. Especially when it has to go fast, for example, you have no time for a sound check, but only for a line check, on small, narrow stages, where every sound is too loud and in personal home recording, the product convinces with fast sound finding. Also the play instinct, which is strongly developed in many musicians (not only on the instrument), finds a perfect playground here, where you can spend days working through all parameters to get closer and closer to your personal sound.

And to be explicit, for the fact that the entire signal chain including speaker and microphone is based on a modeling principle, the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor sounds really good. Where it gets tricky is when you try to sell the product as a full-fledged replacement for a traditional-style analog signal flow. I, too, have heard the saying "Does it sound worse or does it just sound different?" or the evergreen "The listener can't hear the difference anyway" countless times and both sayings are quite justified, although for me there is always a hint of justification in the sentences.

For my flightshows, I also use solutions that I can easily transport in a backpack or travel case, so I can understand the argument "fast, light, uncomplicated" very well, especially in the extremely hectic festival situations. In a relaxed recording situation in the studio, however, where you can set up an appropriate wall of speakers and mike, the processor always draws the short straw with an experienced sound engineer. Even if you don't have an optimized recording room, you'll achieve better results in my opinion with a top league soundproofed speaker, such as those from Grossmann https://www.amazona.de/test-grossmann-sg-box-isolationsbox-fuer-gitarristen/.

Conclusion

With the Line6 Helix Rack Guitar Processor, the user acquires a very flexible and well-designed processor that is quick and easy to use in many situations. Optics and concept are very coherent, the sound variety along with editing possibilities are very extensive and the workmanship is very good.

Sonically, the system offers a wide range of well-hung modeling sounds, but falls short of the quality of a perfectly miked signal routing.

Additional informations:

Line 6 is a leading company in the music industry that specializes in creating innovative and cutting-edge digital audio solutions. Established in 1996, Line 6 has emerged as a pioneer in the field of guitar and audio technology, revolutionizing the way musicians create, perform, and record music. This report provides an in-depth analysis of Line 6, highlighting its history, product portfolio, technological advancements, and impact on the music industry.

Company History: Line 6 was founded by Marcus Ryle and Michel Doidic, who shared a vision to create groundbreaking technology for musicians. The company's initial breakthrough came with the introduction of the Amp Farm, a software emulation of classic guitar amplifiers. This set the stage for Line 6's future success and laid the foundation for its innovative product range.
Product Portfolio: Line 6 offers a diverse range of products that cater to the needs of musicians, both amateur and professional. Their flagship products include:

Guitar Amplifiers: Line 6 revolutionized the amplifier industry with their digital modeling technology. The Spider and POD series amplifiers offer an extensive range of amp models, effects, and speaker simulations, allowing guitarists to achieve a wide variety of tones.

b. Effects Pedals: Line 6 has a comprehensive lineup of effects pedals, such as the Helix series, that provide guitarists with a vast array of effects and amp simulations in a compact format.

c. Digital Wireless Systems: Line 6's wireless systems provide musicians with reliable and high-quality wireless connectivity for guitars, microphones, and other instruments, ensuring freedom of movement on stage.

d. Recording Interfaces: Line 6 offers recording interfaces like the POD Studio series, which allow musicians to connect their instruments directly to a computer for high-quality recording and editing.

e. Software and Apps: Line 6's software and mobile apps, such as Line 6 Edit and Spider Remote, provide musicians with intuitive control and editing capabilities for their Line 6 devices.
Technological Advancements: Line 6 has consistently pushed the boundaries of music technology, introducing several groundbreaking innovations:

Digital Modeling: Line 6's digital modeling technology recreates the sound and response of classic amplifiers, effects pedals, and cabinets with remarkable accuracy. This technology allows musicians to access a wide range of iconic tones in a single device.

b. Variax Guitars: Line 6's Variax guitars combine advanced modeling technology with traditional guitar craftsmanship. These guitars can accurately emulate the sounds of numerous classic guitars, offering an unprecedented level of versatility to musicians.

c. Helix Processing: The Helix series is Line 6's flagship multi-effects processor, equipped with advanced DSP and extensive routing capabilities. It provides guitarists with an all-in-one solution for effects, amp modeling, and signal processing.

d. Relay Digital Wireless: Line 6's Relay wireless systems utilize advanced digital technology to ensure reliable and high-quality wireless transmission, eliminating interference and signal degradation.

Impact on the Music Industry: Line 6's innovative products have had a profound impact on the music industry:

Accessibility: Line 6's affordable and user-friendly products have made high-quality gear accessible to a broader range of musicians, democratizing the music-making process.

b. Versatility: The digital modeling technology offered by Line 6 has empowered musicians to experiment with various tones and textures, allowing them to explore new genres and styles.

c. Performance Enhancement: Line 6's wireless systems and digital solutions have revolutionized live performances by providing musicians with the freedom to move around the stage without sacrificing audio quality.

d. Studio Recording: Line 6's recording interfaces and software have simplified the recording process, enabling musicians to create professional-quality recordings in their own homes.

Conclusion: Line 6 has established itself as a trailblazer in the music industry, continually pushing the boundaries of technology to provide musicians with innovative and powerful tools. With their digital modeling, wireless systems, and recording interfaces, Line 6 has transformed the way musicians create, perform, and record music. Their commitment to accessibility and versatility has made Line 6 a go-to brand for musicians worldwide. As the music industry continues to evolve, Line 6's dedication to innovation ensures that they will remain at the forefront of shaping the future of music technology.