TEST: Line6 M5

 Multibody guitar effects units, my god how many products may there be in this sector by now? There must be thousands, because almost every manufacturer of "single pedal mines" has at least one counterpart in the offer, in which several effects share the processor. The advantage is obvious. Instead of being forced to do unflattering samba dances on stage when using multiple effects, with the multi-stompbox you simply program your favorite configurations onto different banks, or memory locations, respectively, and tap dance your way to your preferred sound through relatively few switching processes.

But why do so many guitarists stick to the collection of individual pedals, which they laboriously drag around connected with patch cables mounted on more or less stable boards? Isn't it so much nicer to be able to board the plane comfortably with a guitar and a stompbox modeler in your hand luggage, even at shows abroad, without having to worry about the armada of metal boxes in your suitcase and their cabling / power supply on site?

As always, it is ultimately the personal sound thought, which moves guitarists for decades to a transport orgy, be it amps, cabinets, guitars or as in this case, effect pedals. And as always when a new protagonist appears on the scene, you can hear the push prayers a thousand times to heaven, "please let it be the product that I've been waiting for forever, so that I can finally leave all the other pedals at home".

Once again, the American modeling pioneer Line 6 has heard the lamentation of the six-string faction and is once again preparing to establish a product, this time with the M5, which due to its very small dimensions (width 15 cm - depth 16 cm - height 6 cm), a low weight of just under one kilogram and due to "Made In China" with a low sales price wants to push into this very product niche. And again we have to hope ...;-)




Construction

Pretty! This is the first impression the M5 leaves on me during unpacking. The completely black housing rounds off the positive first impression with a solid construction, two chrome-plated foot switches and a chrome-plated protection bracket for the six multifunctional controls. This is also bitterly necessary, otherwise the plastic potentiometer axes would immediately turn into small fragments at the first slipped switching attempt, as exposed as they are sticking out of the upper part of the housing. The Modeler cannot be operated via battery, but a suitable power supply unit is included.

In terms of connections, the product is designed in full stereo, which means that if necessary, the M5 can be assigned both in the input and in the output section right / left. Of course, the Ganz as a classic stompbox emulator also works in mono. In addition, an expression pedal can be connected, with which various effect parameters can be regulated in real time during operation, such as the wah-wah effect, pitch shifting or but master volume. For further control and regulation processes, MIDI in / out are available on the side.

In terms of effects, over 100 different effect models can be created from the standard effects Distortion, Delay, Modulation, Filter and Reverb, with the Tuner and Tap Delay functions constantly accessible via the right footswitch. A nice touch is the fact that the different effect types have been assigned different backlights. For example, all distortion programs appear in yellow, the modulation section in blue, etc.

Attention, the M5 is not a multi-effect unit in the conventional sense, i.e. only one! Effect at the same time. Who hopes to acquire for less than 200, - € a multiple solution in terms of effects must unfortunately be disappointed. The same fact, together with the above-mentioned connection options, brings a problem to the table. If you want to use the M5 as a classic stompbox in front of the amp as distortion, overdrive, pitch shifter, etc., everything is no problem. However, if you want to use effects such as delay and reverb, which undoubtedly belong in the FX loop of an overdriven amp, you can not use the distortion functions, unless you are a big Robert Fripp fan.

Consequently, you have to decide in advance, preamp operation and room effects only with clean amp or FX loop Wirering and the overdrive effects stay at home. A way out of this situation would only bring a more complex signal routing with different taps in the signal path, which probably could not be implemented for budget reasons.



Practice

The first official actions prove to be very intuitive. Thanks to the different display colors, you can work your way through the individual effect sections very quickly and also never lose the overview. Select the effect, adjust the parameters if necessary, and you're done. Apart from the digital display, there is not much difference to the knobs of the analog world. If the product is switched off, the device remembers the last parameter setting due to a buffer circuit, just like its analog counterparts.

In terms of room and filter effects, the M5 cuts a consistently good figure; I couldn't find any weak points or half-baked presets. Whether the heavy sludge and bubbling section of some presets is everyone's cup of tea is dependent on taste, in any case, everything is offered from subtle to violent and can still be changed if necessary.

In the overdrive / distortion area, the M5 makes every effort and also presents some distortion variations in good form, but there is always a little hint of digital hovering over the signal. Whether this is ultimately wanted in practice or not, the player must decide for himself. Fortunately, the great mumpf of the first Line 6 distortion attempts from the early days belongs to the past, but within the M5 with its own Line 6 Classic preset can show everyone again the sonic improvement in direct comparison :-)


Conclusion

With the M5 Line 6 introduces a stompbox modeler of the lowest price category in its ranks, which with an appealing design, a good workmanship and a clear user interface offers a high value compared to the low price. Sonically flexible and thanks to MIDI, respectively stereo signal routing to integrate even in a more complex guitar setup, the M5 covers a wide range of pedals, as long as you need only one effect at a time.

All in all, a well-rounded product that will find its field of application and, with its small dimensions, will make one or the other pedalboard superfluous. If you are thinking about buying several effects and know that you only use one effect at a time, you should give the M5 a try.

Additional informations:

- Line 6 is a renowned company that has revolutionized the music industry with its innovative solutions for musicians and audio professionals. Since its inception in 1996, Line 6 has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology to create groundbreaking products that enhance the music creation and performance experience. From guitar amplifiers to effects processors, recording interfaces, and digital wireless systems, Line 6 has established itself as a leader in the field of digital audio processing and modeling.
History and Founding: Line 6 was founded by Marcus Ryle and Michel Doidic, two engineers with a shared passion for music and technology. They recognized the limitations of traditional analog equipment and set out to develop digital solutions that would offer musicians unprecedented flexibility and control. In 1996, Line 6 introduced the AxSys 212, the world's first modeling guitar amplifier, which was met with 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 engineers. One of the company's most notable innovations is the POD, a line of guitar amp modelers and multi-effects processors. The POD revolutionized the industry by allowing musicians to replicate the sounds of classic amplifiers and effects pedals with astonishing accuracy, all within a compact and portable unit.

Building on the success of the POD, Line 6 continued to refine and expand its product offerings. They introduced the Variax series of electric guitars, which feature advanced digital modeling technology that enables players to emulate the sounds of different vintage instruments. This breakthrough innovation provided musicians with an unprecedented level of versatility and inspired new creative possibilities.

Line 6's dedication to wireless technology resulted in the creation of the Relay series of digital wireless systems. These systems deliver pristine audio quality with exceptional reliability and a broad frequency range, enabling musicians to move freely on stage without sacrificing sound quality. This development marked a significant improvement over traditional analog wireless systems, which were prone to interference and signal degradation.

The Helix series represents Line 6's latest advancement in guitar processors and effects. The Helix offers an incredibly powerful and intuitive platform for guitarists, combining a vast library of amp and effects models with a user-friendly interface. With its seamless integration of hardware and software, the Helix has become a go-to choice for 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, record, and perform. By providing musicians with access to a wide range 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.

Over the years, Line 6 has forged partnerships with renowned artists, including Steve Vai, Peter Frampton, and John 5, who have embraced the company's technology and contributed to its development. These collaborations have helped Line 6 refine its products, ensuring that they meet the needs and expectations of professional musicians.
Furthermore, Line 6's technology has found its way into recording studios, live performances, and educational institutions worldwide. Its digital audio processing capabilities have been integrated into popular recording software, allowing producers and engineers to access high-quality virtual guitar rigs and effects. Many music schools and conservatories have also adopted Line 6 products, providing students with hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.

Continued Innovation: Line 6 remains committed to innovation and staying at the forefront of the music technology industry. With advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence, the company is constantly refining its modeling algorithms, striving for even greater accuracy and realism in recreating classic gear. Additionally, Line 6 continues to explore new frontiers, such as immersive audio and virtual reality, aiming to enhance the musical experience through groundbreaking technologies.

Conclusion: Line 6 has firmly established itself as a pioneer in the music technology industry. Through its relentless commitment to innovation, the company has revolutionized the way musicians create, perform, and record music. With a diverse range of products that combine cutting-edge technology, user-friendly interfaces, and exceptional sound quality, Line 6 continues to inspire musicians and shape the future of music production.

- Multieffects pedals for guitar have become an essential tool for musicians, offering a vast array of effects and tones in a single, convenient package. These pedals have revolutionized the way guitarists create and shape their sound, providing unprecedented versatility and flexibility. In this comprehensive report, we will delve into the world of multieffects pedals, exploring their history, features, and the impact they have had on the music industry.

History and Evolution: The concept of multieffects pedals originated in the 1980s with the introduction of digital signal processing technology. Manufacturers recognized the potential of integrating multiple effects into a single unit, eliminating the need for individual stompboxes. The first commercially successful multieffects pedal was the Roland GP-8, which combined several effects like distortion, modulation, and delay into one compact unit. This breakthrough laid the foundation for the development of more advanced and feature-rich multieffects pedals.

Features and Functionality: Multieffects pedals are designed to provide guitarists with a comprehensive range of effects and amp simulations, enabling them to achieve a wide variety of sounds without the need for an extensive pedalboard or multiple amplifiers. These pedals typically feature an intuitive interface with footswitches, knobs, and an LCD screen, allowing users to select and control various effects parameters.

The most common types of effects found in multieffects pedals include distortion, overdrive, modulation (such as chorus, flanger, and phaser), delay, reverb, and EQ. Additionally, many multieffects pedals incorporate amp and cabinet simulations, allowing guitarists to emulate the sound characteristics of different amplifiers and speaker setups. This versatility is particularly beneficial for live performances and studio recording, as it eliminates the need for multiple amplifiers and mic placements.

Integration and Connectivity: Modern multieffects pedals often come equipped with advanced integration and connectivity options. They can be connected to a computer or mobile device via USB or Bluetooth, allowing for deep editing and control through dedicated software or apps. This integration provides users with a more intuitive and comprehensive editing experience, enabling them to fine-tune their tones and access additional presets and features.

Furthermore, multieffects pedals can be integrated into existing pedalboards and amplifier setups. They typically feature inputs and outputs for connecting guitars, amplifiers, headphones, and other audio equipment. Some models also offer additional inputs for expression pedals or external footswitches, expanding the range of control options and real-time parameter manipulation.

Impact on the Music Industry: Multieffects pedals have had a profound impact on the music industry, influencing the way guitarists approach tone creation and performance. These pedals offer musicians an unparalleled level of convenience, portability, and sonic flexibility. They have become an essential tool for gigging musicians, studio professionals, and home recording enthusiasts alike, streamlining their gear setups and unlocking a world of creative possibilities.

Furthermore, multieffects pedals have democratized access to professional-quality effects and amp simulations. They have made it easier for beginners to experiment with different sounds and styles, empowering them to explore various genres without the need for an extensive collection of individual pedals. This accessibility has contributed to the diversification and innovation of guitar music across various genres.
Leading Multieffects Pedal Manufacturers: Several prominent manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in the multieffects pedal market. Companies such as Boss, Line 6, TC Electronic, Zoom, and Eventide have developed highly regarded and feature-rich multieffects pedals, catering to the needs of guitarists at all skill levels and musical preferences. These manufacturers continue to push the boundaries of technology, incorporating new features, improved sound quality, and enhanced user experiences into their products.

Conclusion: Multieffects pedals have become an indispensable tool for guitarists, offering a comprehensive range of effects, amp simulations, and sonic possibilities in a single, compact unit. With their convenience, versatility, and advanced features, these pedals have transformed the way musicians create, perform, and record music. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect multieffects pedals to evolve further, pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration and innovation in the years to come.