My first video course, The Tone Course, is available now. Check it out below! flatfiv.co/collections/rhett-shull/products/the-tone-course

@sam-ej9nm

3 жыл бұрын

How much does the clean channel of the physical amp affect the helix affects? For example: if I play the helix with its amps sims and distortion/effects etc through a Fender Hot Rod Deville 4x10 amp (clean channel I assume?) is it possible to get the sound of say, a marshal valve? Or will the bluesy breakup of the fender amp still cause that high end breakup in the sound? I currently play through a fender strat, into the Hot Rod Deville, but I want a tighter tone more like a humbucker guitar through a Marshall amp- can the Helix transform the tone of my setup pretty well? Thanks for the video!

@davidodle782

2 жыл бұрын

Are these presets still somewhere available

Gee, I really liked the guitarist in that band, but his amp sim only sounded 99.9% like the real thing...pffft.

@jamescuttsmusicjcm5013

5 жыл бұрын

99.9% like it... jesus... you are giving so much credit! ahhhahahaha.

@draic890

5 жыл бұрын

@@jamescuttsmusicjcm5013 He whom the cap fits...

@jamescuttsmusicjcm5013

5 жыл бұрын

@@draic890 ??

@cgavin1

4 жыл бұрын

It all sounds like white noise through the house PA speakers anyway.. :)

@kevinjohnson1721

3 жыл бұрын

Perfect imitation of the mentally ill guitarist when they stomp the OCD pedal on Tone snobbery

2:59 what a show with my band looks like

@oneampscouse

4 жыл бұрын

😂 😂

@rockulushollywood3913

4 жыл бұрын

I'm dying! lol

@LittleDubSteps

4 жыл бұрын

Sold out, nice 🤙

@Anonymous.android

4 жыл бұрын

🤣🤣

@davidvistas7556

4 жыл бұрын

😂😂😂😂😂😂

Amps, Kemper, Helix, Fractal etc. all sound exactly the same to an audience, so pick whichever one you want.

@goswo

5 жыл бұрын

Ho ho, true, but there is another side of the story - what inspire you, what gives back, and what adds to your creativity. If it was only about what ever audience could hear, you could get away with cheap guitars and other cheap gear. If you are not sensitive to any of that, go for anything to get the job done. But most musicians I know are very sensitive to that, and for them good gear matters :-) (not to say that Helix cant do that...)

@danc3746

5 жыл бұрын

So true!

@neilweir-smith8228

5 жыл бұрын

Agreed, in a live setting I doubt 99.99% of people would hear a difference. As for what inspires and what to use for recording then you may find a different answer. I used a Head Rush for a while, loved the ease of use and the tone was comparable, but after two died on me I eventually went to a Helix. Would love a Dual Rec though but just can't justify it for me.

@phillipsouthard8285

5 жыл бұрын

Neil Weir-Smith I get what your saying and I don’t think anyone can tell what inspires you. My amps and pedals never inspired me, but the helix does! I think amps and pedals sound better, but they’re not my cup of tea!

@neilweir-smith8228

5 жыл бұрын

@@phillipsouthard8285 We are on the same page I think. My Helix also inspires me but if I had the money and was recording professionally (neither of which is the case :)) then I would try and get the actual items from a patch I created for the purpose of recording. For everything else use the Helix. Of course while writing this I am thinking that even recording these days it would be difficult to spot the album recorded digitally vs on analog gear.

For a non-giggin amateur like myself, the Helix is perfect IMO. I do love my pedals, but the ability to have such a large selection of pedals and amps that are really expensive makes this an economical choice.

Great video Rhett. I’ve gigged with a Helix for acoustic gigs for about the last 2 years and I love it. The options available are so broad, it’s hard to think about living without it. For electric guitarists, I’ve done the whole amp and pedalboard deal, but why limit yourself? The creative options are unlimited and that’s very exciting. Furthermore, nobody in the audience is going to be able to discern between a modeled vintage Vox AC30 and the real deal, so why go through the hassle of varying voltages of different venues, failing tubes or killing your back? Lastly, tube amps haven’t really progressed that much technically in decades, but modelers will just keep improving. It’s an amazing time to be a guitarist...

@blainetrahan8883

2 жыл бұрын

Well said

@jefferymoore1749

2 жыл бұрын

yep

@40rockdqman

2 жыл бұрын

which helix? Are there different ones?

@alexanderhanksx

Жыл бұрын

@@40rockdqman maybe the one the videos about?

@jayteesgear

10 ай бұрын

So true!

Dude... i just have to say, I LOVE your playing... your ambient style and sound and FEEL is just INCREDIBLE! You know someone has great ambient feel when their playing sends you into another world, and that is what your playing does; ambient or not! AMAZING!

This video is so well shot and edited, great to see how much better at it you're getting! Also, perfect timing on this video, been looking at a Helix for a few months now.

So.....i just need to send a e-mail to line6 to get a helix 😁?

@stulora3172

5 жыл бұрын

Yep, that's how this works. I don't know who still buys their stuff....

@ryleyeaton7349

5 жыл бұрын

Daniel o he doesn’t get to keep it it’s to try out clearly stated in the vid

@tommurrayGTR

5 жыл бұрын

@@Dannyboy0202 That was a very tongue in cheek comment. Humour doesn't always come off well online. Line 6 and all of these companies will happily send out their gear to people who have a big audience, and can showcase their products. They normally sell the gear to that person for a huge discount cost price or less, and sometimes depending on the person they'll give it for free just so that they can be associated with that player. Like I don't think Guthrie Govan would be paying for one of these if he wanted one.

@lukather1

4 жыл бұрын

Tom Murray Guthrie plays Fractal AxFx

@derekchapman5167

4 жыл бұрын

@@lukather1 To be fair, he now uses a Charvel instead of a Suhr, so even the top players get it wrong sometimes.....

Great video Rhett!! Just wanted to add a quick tip for people who are new at using something like Helix...put your Cab LAST in the chain. It makes a massive difference. If needed, you can follow up the Cab with an EQ but always put the Cab AFTER all your FX. It glues the sound together because it forces your tone to live inside the EQ curve of the Cab itself...just like real life...you don't run an SM57 into a Reverb/Chorus pedal! Haha. That little change makes all the difference in your tone.

These are such great reviews. No stupid jokes or senseless talking -- just really informative, useful information and great demos of what the equipment can do.

From what I could hear on KZread of the Noah Guthrie gigs using the Helix, your tone was outstanding!

Been using the Helix LT for over a year now. Sold most of my analog gear after I found it to by my primary way to play at any venue. Even travelled to Philippines to play at a whole bunch of venues and it was nice know my sound would be pretty much be the same anywhere I went. I've always been a tube amp and pedal guy before but switching to the Helix has made a huge difference for me.

I love your videos, you are an artist! You make the sounds and scenes come together as one piece, it is refreshing watch your channel here on KZread. Love your work man!

Dude this video couldn't have come at a better time. I was thinking of purchasing one this weekend! Thanks for the great info and quality of content as always, Rhett!

can’t agree more with this; it’s great to finally see someone who uses all these devices as tools in real world applications and is able to a)make them sound good and b)really evaluate pros and cons from a working musician point of view. I suggest to try the Fractal AX8 if you have the chance; it’s an all-in-one box like the Helix (minus the built-in exp pedal) and it provides amazing amp modeling tones and fx. Good job as always!

@blindtightropewalker

5 жыл бұрын

shaft9000 not if you know what you’re doing, just like any other piece of gear more or less. My comment was mainly about the Helix because is often underrated in comparison to Kemper and Fractal, while it clearly holds its place and is perfectly capable of providing usable tones in both studio and live environments.

Great video Rhett! I agree with the Helix/Kemper thoughts 100%. For a while I ran both - I put Kemper in the fx loop of Helix and used the Kemper just as the amp. It was pretty great - the best of both worlds. Now try Axe-FX III :)

@themelnibonean7017

5 жыл бұрын

I'm with you but I prefer the AX8 floor unit. Line 6/Helix still has this high gain fizz to it that the AX8 does not have. If I were building a studio the AXIII is where its at. The AX8 crunch and low gain is also more great sounding. They are all good units don't get me wrong but AX8 is where its at in my view.

@RevuitNet

5 жыл бұрын

The Melnibonean haven’t configured it properly then...

@josuegavi

4 жыл бұрын

@@themelnibonean7017 I think it's also about how much have you learnt to set it up, many people say that digital are garbage because they have just plugged in to whatever preset comes up first... It's a matter of trying and exploring possibilities.

@bandshooting

4 жыл бұрын

The Melnibonean 💯agree👍🏻

@Stashmanfpv

3 жыл бұрын

@@themelnibonean7017 I agree, to a point. My AX8 simply crushes with Hi-Gain amp models, but Helix has some killer sounds and FX too. They both have their place and I own them both and an AXE FX III and I luv ‘em all. My tube amps now collect dust, but I go through phases and the tube amps will come out again soon and I’ll go the other direction... for a while. For recording the modelers, to me, are indispensable. ✌🏼

Fabulous playing and tones. Musical and truly warm, even ”organic” for lack of a better word, even though it's digital. Kudos!

@jedfarish8062

4 жыл бұрын

@Seamus O'Dork Shut up Seamus you goon

@crob3545

4 жыл бұрын

Fez Music "N-no, you're wrong. SHUT UP" thats what you sound like, accept it theres no difference

I LOVE Rhetts playing. I always hear stuff that he plays that I relate with. I try to make the worship parts I write more interesting and I take a lot of inspiration from Rhett and Micheal Pope. You're freaking insane man!

I had a period of the first month with the Helix where I wasn't sure I was going to keep it. It was a typical trajectory I've heard about the unit: couldn't quite get the metal/prog tones I was after until I bought IRs from ML Studios and Ownhammer. The funny thing is that I came back around to the stock cabs and am now happy with them with specific amps. An EQ block between the amp and cab(s), a high/low cut block, and parametric blocks to cut unwanted frequencies make a HUGE difference. I can't overstate how much those strategies help.

@SurfingSerpent

4 жыл бұрын

So you get rid of the "fizzy" characteristic by reducing high frequencies with EQ? How do these strategies work? Does the end result make it indistinguishable from Ax Fx 3?

Purchased the presets just from the sounds in the intro, beautiful sounds man!

I was literally just talking to another guitar player about your Helix tone on the road...I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t seen it. Thanks Rhett!

I like how you share your presets and knowledge. Seems like a lot of pro musicians like to keep all their settings and whatnot to themselves. Thank you.

Really good overview and review. Thanks, appreciated. Am on the HX Stomp and am looking at maybe upgrading.

As a long time Helix user playing covers, I really do love it. Being in a power trio + front singer, it can do a lot to help fill the void on songs that have keys, strings, etc. Not saying it can replace a keyboard player, but it can do things add chord drones you can play over your solos, for instance. Takes time and practice, of course, to work that all out, and definitely not for "plug in and play" folks, but for those that don't mind getting into the details of it, there are impressive things you can do, for sure.

Thanks for what you do, Rhett. I hooked into you through your visits on Beato's channel, and have enjoyed your contributions there. This vid convinced me to go with the Helix. I'm going to retire from the "day job" soon, and have been thinking about a way to divorce myself from my 5-ton Fender Pro Reverb to a gig setup that a 65 year old can manage. I was almost bought in on the POD H500X until I saw this vid. I've watched a fair amount of your behind the scenes vids and trust your judgement when it comes to gear that is sonically able to please a live audience, road-worthy enough to last, and easy enough to use. I traded in the Pro Reverb 2 weeks ago for the Helix. It's a delight! Since I had to do my deal with an (unnamed) box store, I couldn't use your gear link to purchase it at retail, but to show my appreciation for all the hard and honest work you do I bought your Helix presets today. Not much in $$, but you deserve it, man. Now all I have to do is learn how to run the darn thing. Love your work, especially with Jessy W. Please book a gig in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, so I can get a chance to see ya!

Rhett, thanks so much for all your videos, I’m an Australian based drummer and really like your honesty and tones. Keep them coming. Cheers

You've convinced me! I'm definitely more traditional and struggling to make the switch, but you definitely can't beat this for flying and gigging!

Great video. I was about to give up on my helix. But you made me realize what a great gear I have. Thanks for the video. Got yourself a subscriber

I love my Helix LT. It is light & small & saves on back surgeries. It's good enough. If properly set up & through a house PA mix, the Helix is such that not one person in an audience can tell the difference between the Helix and old timey "real amps" & effects. Plus, as stated before - no back surgeries. Richard :)

Hey man, really nice video! Your insight is exactly what was needed when considering a Helix. Thanks for the real world input and comparison to Kemper. You did a great job of gathering the major points on this and sifting thru the questions to consider. I watch a lot of videos and I'm always frustrated with the lack of detail in most of them. But this was so well done man! Very helpful

I’ve had my Helix LT for just over 3 weeks and I’m really digging it but the expression pedal broke a few days ago. Contacted Line 6 and my replacement board (full board not just the pedal!!!!) arrived an hour ago, 2 days after speaking to Line 6. Awesome and flexible product, perfect for my current gig and amazing customer service! Great video as always 🤟

I’ve been making music since 1966. I’ve been privileged to meet many well known top guitarists over the years. I’ve heard and seen the complaints they have made regarding the limitations of their rigs. That’s why so many of them were quick to abandon the gear many now lust after in the quest for the tone they were seeking and couldn’t get. You just can’t take everything with you over the years. I would bet if Hendrix were alive today, he would absolutely fall in love with ALL of the choices available in todays digital gear and laugh in his sleeve at those spending ridiculous amounts of $$$ for gear he left in the dust decades ago.

@kylegoodman5196

2 жыл бұрын

With the way Hendrix embraced technology I would not be surprised if he was either alive today or say took a time machine to 2021 he would totally hook into a modelling rig and be highly satisfied.

Thanks Rhett - from my experience, your comments are spot on. My journey - very recent - took me first to lots of really good pedals. Even got a Mesa Boogie Lonestar to run them through. I have a pretty sweet set up. But.. I hedged my bets and ALSO bought the Helix. (work bonus, what can I say? blew it all on gear!). Hated the Helix out of the box. Tried a couple of my own presets, ran it through my home recording gear and speakers. Not much better. Pretty disappointed. Pretty sure I was going to sell it. But...finally plugged it into the Mesa Boogie, set up a new patch....and ...holy CRUD! awesome! added more effects, GREAT! added a stereo-out set up. KILLER! Now, my pedals also sounded this great. But I am AMAZED at how good the Helix sound is. To me, it feels like I am playing through the pedals. My pedals include a Timeline and some other top gear...the Helix at the least, matches it. about the only thing I notice - and you really have to pay attention to notice it - is that when rolling off volume on my guitar, the OD pedals clean up a tiny bit better than the Helix ODs. But that is about it, so far. Otherwise, some of the sound is BETTER than the pedals. I seem to have more control, more ability to shape the sound....add in the freakin' AMAZING number of ways you can route signals and loops and expression pedals and...and...and..and now, I am re-thinking the pedals. hey, I LOVE my pedals. but Helix is truly a game changer. It is that good.

Really appreciate the perspective and experience of a great player and especially given the environment you used as your test bed! I am a metal head and I play in a small local band doing melodic/folk death metal. When I bought a Helix I already had a Randall Satan and a Victory VX Kraken, as well as a couple thousand dollars in stomp boxes and rack equipment (nothing shocking, mostly different measures to fatten up my tone, saturate and then try to tame the resulting noise). Despite having absolutely incredible amps and great Mesa cabinets, I was constantly fighting with my equipment to get the sound I wanted without tons of feedback and hum. I actually got my Helix solely for use as a robust interface/modeler for doing home recordings during songwriting but quickly realized in testing it at practice and a few bar gigs that although I lost a subtle element by leaving out my real valve amps I gained SO MUCH convenience, control and simplicity by using the Helix that I just wasn't using the live amps anymore. I have actually had more compliments than ever on my tone and live sound since switching over. I'm sure that a purist would tell me I'm just an idiot who doesn't know how to use my valve amps correctly, but after 6 years of research, tinkering, and endless expensive gear purchases I still wasn't where I wanted to be and my rig was so complex it took me longer to set up than the drummer. A couple months with my helix saw me sounding the way I wanted with the simplest rig I've ever used, and I can even pipe two different Amp models out to my cabinets simultaneously to simulate my old 2 amp, 2 cab sound. It's not for everyone, but it's been a powerful and convenient tool for me! Thanks for the great video!

Great video. I love that you give an honest opinion and having kemper and pure amps, your opinion is believable. Incredible tones and playing!

Really great rundown! I have had Kemper, Line6, and Fractal. Sold them all and now use Synergy Amps module into two notes cab with gfi/ strymon effects. Best of tube and digital. I found with digital that I would only use 3-4 amp models which I can get from Synergy, most of whom are made by the actual amp builders themselves (Morgan, Friedman, Diezel, Bogner ) and there is a touch response from actual tube preamp that digital can’t seem to capture. In the end, if I’m spending 1500-2000, I want something that has tubes somewhere in the chain, and won’t be obsolete with the next revision ( Helix mkii, of Fractal AxeIV etc).

I’ve had a Helix floor for a couple of years now and it really is an amazing live tool. In a live band scenario those subtle tonal differences from a tube amp are so negligible that it’s almost unnoticeable; certainly to my ears. The convenience and reliability, too, can’t be overstated.

@deadshot4245

Жыл бұрын

the ability to tweak the parameters in depth to me can beat the tube amp plus the reliability and portability

Thanks Rhett... It’s refreshing to finally find a review of something in the modeling world from a fellow tube amp/pedal board guy.

Enjoyed your Tele playing Rhett! I think the Helix is more intuitive and convenient over the others, and agree with your comments regarding how close we are to the “real thing”. I just ordered my Helix LT as it is more in my price range. Watching videos like yours confirms I made the right decision.

Rhett, I got my Helix as soon as it first came out. I had played with it at the Winter NAMM and knew I had to have one. I also had to learn how to get the presets tweaked to sound the way I wanted them to (they have a good starting point, but I personally believe they all need tweaked to taste). For the 1st year I kept my '65 Twin in the road case in my band trailer "just in case" I needed it when the Helix either died or sounded crappy on stage. I never once brought in my amp or pedal board for that year. For the past 4-5 years I have not even loaded my amp or pedal board on the trailer. The Helix has done everything I need it to and is perfect when using my UE-7 Pro IEMs. I do use a Electroharmonix B-9 pedal and a Drop-D pedal routed into the FX Loops on my Helix and programmed in my footswitch mode buttons. Those are 2 pedals the Helix cannot recreate due to being Polyphonic (at least at the current date). And Line 6 is always keeping up and adding via updates. One thing I will mention for your setup (should you ever go this way) is using The Broadway Stand. A friend of mine in Nashville (DB Chase) invented this - and I don't leave for a show without it. This gives you up to 3 stands, electric and USB plugs, and spot for pedal board all in 1 normal size footprint on stage. My Helix has a perfect perch there. You might want to check it out to help with footprint, setup, and tear down. I have not used a Kemper, so I will stay out of that conversation. But I am definitely a Line 6 Helix proponent! Good vids Dude - I've enjoyed them quite a lot.

I love the Helix and run it with both guitar and bass. It works as a recording interface, as a stand alone amp+pedal rig and as a pedalboard together with a traditional amp. And sure, the factory presets usually need a bit of tweeking to get the tone you like, but personally I find it intuitive and easy to learn. I never even opened the manual. On another note, I wonder how long we will talk about ”real” amps vs digital modelers. The digital are also real amps, as they do the same job but in a different way. We wouldn’t say real vs digital watch, both analogue and digital keep time, with different technical solutions... Of course, the modelers are trying to simulate traditional amps but in time they will probably also develop their own voice. For now it is a too important selling point that they can sound like a Plexi or whatever other traditional sound we love. But in the end, we want tools that sounds as good as possible to a price we can afford.

I just spent a couple hours on my brand new Helix rack. Within 2 min i had already found a sound i liked. I bought it with the idea of making it the brain of my little home setup. Its still early days but i cant see myself regreting this idea. Every sound i will ever need for recording at home is in there. Go Helix!

The videography and playing from 5:30 to 5:35 made me immediately nostalgic. Awesome feeling.

God, finally, a balanced take on amp modellers from someone who appreciates the practical functions of both analog tubes and portable digital amps. Not to mention a pristine comparison between the Kemper and the Helix as well. Also, I personally appreciate the constructive approach towards the pros and cons of the Helix without having to bash other products to the extent of throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Thanks for taking the chance of zoning in your views on portable amp modelling! This might be stretching it but it would be cool if you could also do a take on the Fractal floor units, or not. Idk. Your call. Haha! Cheers, mate!

+1 for the Helix. I've used it every week for the last 2 1/2 years, direct to FOH. No problems. And I'll have to add that Rhett's presets are some of the best I've purchased. Also a shout out to L6 for their service (although I haven't needed it) and presence on the gear forums. Line 6 is doing it right!!

@schneiderpants23

Жыл бұрын

Any other helix preset sellers you recommend purchasing from?

@prs22gt10

Жыл бұрын

@@schneiderpants23 I've bought many over the years and try to avoid the urge nowadays. Best thing I've done is learned what I like and work within that. I'm not one to try to emulate others (not good enough for that). I'm stuck on the Helix version matchless amp and add effects to fit the songs. Good luck!

Anyone planning to buy his HELIX presets, I can only recommend them. I did purchase many, but this one stands out. Great job man!

Just got the HX Stomp for my bass today. I was up and running within 30 minutes. Videos like yours helped me to make my decision. Thanks again for the great vid!

I got an HX Stomp in my rig, an I love it. I normally use it as a super pedal (my 2nd delay an, some modulation effects) and when I want to record or play without making any noise, it's super useful. I think one day I will use it as an amp solution for some church gigs! Nice video, thanks for your job!

I just used this pedal for the first time in my worship set and I used the pull me under stock setting on a Schecter omen 6 with factory pickups, I have to say I'm impressed. I would purchase this pedal if I had the chance to.

Thank you for taking the time to share ... great information ...

Absolute best Helix demo ever. Thank you!

RHETT SHULL ONLY MAKES FIRE VIDEOS! SOOO GOOD RHETT!

Really loved the intro jam on this. Can you talk a bit about what you're playing and which of your presets you're using?

As an owner of one for over a year, I really like it. Also, the native application works really well when working in a DAW.

Great review, I'm thinking about a Helix and appreciate your unbiased comments!

I'm only a couple of years into my guitar playing journey, and I bought one (used). I think it will save me thousands in the future, on amp and effects purchases.

We're pretty luck to be around in a time when all these different types of amps are fairly affordable and still sound great; loads of options!

@fuckenps3

3 жыл бұрын

"Affordable"

@JbfMusicGuitar

3 жыл бұрын

@@fuckenps3 Yeah, I meant from the point that Kemper/Helix/Axe Fx modellers are in the same sort of ballpark as classic amps like a 5150, Twin Reverb, etc. And you get a decent approximation of loads of those sounds in one box. Having said that, I'm continually impressed with the free Amp sims I hear online. Modellers are just going to come down in price as the technology improves as well, unlikely we'll see that from valve amps- we can hope though I suppose!

@RyanWright

3 жыл бұрын

@@fuckenps3 in comparison to what is in the Helix, or many of it's "contemporaries" like the Kemper, AX, ect, yeah, affordable.

@AaronNGBnTech

3 жыл бұрын

Well, Hx stomp/pod go exists

@richardshank7659

2 жыл бұрын

@@fuckenps3 amps really have not gotten that much more expensive than they have been by and large when you consider inflation. 150 dollars for a tweed fender in the 50s was a ton of money. Equivalent to the thousand dollars or more we pay today. I mean gas was what? Like 15 cents per gallon just for comparison.

Great video, Rhett! I absolutely LOOOOOOVE my Helix! As someone who plays at church every week, it's an absolute essential for me. I use it direct, but I've used it before an amp, and it works great for either. I love how flexible it is, and it can do anything I need it to do, and surprises me regularly with how well it does it. It is as easy or as detailed as you want. You can dial in a tone to your heart's content, or you can just stick with stock settings. The sounds from this are incredible, and I frequently get people telling me that I have the best tone they've ever heard--which is flattering, but maybe they haven't been around, either. lol.

Thanks for the really helpful overview and comparisons. I have a Helix and love it for all the reasons you state. I occasionally use an Amp1 in the effects loop. This works well on all settings but is a fantastic way to use Helix effects to hit the front end of a Clean or Vintage (slightly crunchy) tube amp. Great response yet retains the simple setup and modest footprint.

I like your thoughts on this. Nothing beats a real tube amp feel and great pedals but the amps are usually miked and fed to audience through a PA system and with in ears which sound different so I would rather use the Helix, Kemper, Fractal since it reproduces the studio polished sound the audience hears and save my back carrying all the gear. I think the only way a audience will get the feel of a tube amp is a up close session but then it has drawbacks like the drums may be too loud like in church settings for example then it’s a volume war.

Helix makes the dream rig become real. I've been using it for a few years now. Such an incredible piece of gear. The BIGGEST bonus of all about Line 6.. their customer service and free gear updates!!

@OldGrowthRedwood

5 жыл бұрын

Spike_41 Employee? Lol!

@spike_4174

5 жыл бұрын

@@OldGrowthRedwood Nope.

@johnnyninefingers3347

5 жыл бұрын

@@OldGrowthRedwood Neither me. I was an "early adopter" and have had my Helix for over three years. Best bit of kit I've ever bought. It has replaced my Marshall half-stack/Blackface Twin rig. And Line 6's customer service is quite frankly the best in the business. (And I'm not sponsored by Line 6 - I paid real money for my Helix floor.) Fractal, Helix, or Kemper will get you to the tones you want, but the Helix is the best-thought-out solution by a country mile. Their customer service is second to none. The only comparison I can make is with the interwar period of Rolls-Royce. When Helixes have gone down in critical circumstances (very much a rarity; but events, dear boy, events) Line 6 have gone above and beyond the conventional response, sometimes providing replacements they have had shipped from their local distributor. And they are now part of Yamaha (and no I don't have a commercial relationship with Yamaha either - I play Strats) and have Ampeg on their books too. They are just about the coolest kit company on the planet; but nothing short of injury will ever make me replace my number 1 with anything other than a Strat.

@hainzy

5 жыл бұрын

@@OldGrowthRedwood hey just a heads up as well, I'm on the helix FB group and trust me the customer service is ridiculous. So so good, they put themselves out there to help as much as possible

@fredriksvard2603

5 жыл бұрын

Johnny Ninefingers tried kemper?

Hey Rhett! I really enjoyed this. Honestly these weren't even on my tube driven radar until I watched/heard your videos with Noah. I believe the word is "righteous" tones my friend. Keep 'em comin'.

Thank you for the review of the Helix. I've been sitting on the fence so to speak about shelling out money for a Line 6 Helix. I've watched lots of reviews about it but wasn't sure. After watching your review I'll definitely have to buy one. Thanks for making everything crystal clear.

I had a Helix for a while and liked it, especially the interface. In the end I settled on an Axe-FX III due to the additional tweaking options and amp models. I also think the effects were a cut above. Nonetheless, we live in a golden age, at least for guitarist. We have so many great options now that it’s really hard not to get good tone...as long as you know how to use the tools are your disposal.

I just shared this in the helix group on Facebook. Finally, a fair and realistic review of the helix. Thanks for not being another lemming

@officialWWM

5 жыл бұрын

It's not a review of the Helix though. He said that! It's his view of the concept.

Thanks, I think it's perfect for other than headliner gigging. I have a nice collection of gear but dragging it in and out of clubs and needing to do quick change overs makes this attractive. Also not having to worry about theft of vintage gear is a plus. Keep the other for the more controlled studio environment.

Nailed it. 👌🏼 love my Helix LT. I love my tube amps and high end effects. Different tools for different applications.

I love this intro, beautiful.

I love my Helix. Best purchase I ever did. And along with my variax magic happens. Oh and you play awesome 😎

Thanks for the review Rhett. Will look at it next time I get to my local music store. Looking forward to the next video!

I got the Helix 2 yrs ago to run as a midi/FX controller/brain for my tube and pedal rig. Love it. The routing and user interface is gold! L6 knocked it out of the park. On top of it being able to control an analog rig; I'm absolutely loving the modeling versatility in combination with an EHX 44 Magnum into my Bogner 212.

Here are some key factors that can help you decide. The Kemper is a Profiler, if you have a snapshot of a great tube amp, then it doesn't get better than that. If you need to tweak that profile/snapshot than you are departing from the original amp sound because you are always using the same internal EQ with every amp that you've profiled. You do not have the EQ of the original amps. So you need a lot of Profiles to be happy, and there are enough out there. The Helix is a modeling unit that models all aspects of the amps and effects used. If you tweak an amp model in the Helix you are still remaining in its original amp equalization and sound spectrum. So you need to know to tweak, how the original amps react (for instance an AC30) to get the most out of it. You need analog knowledge and experience for the Helix. There are lots of Tube Amps that can sound crappy if you do not play them the right way, with the right guitar, and if you don't tweak them properly. The same can be said about the Helix, if you use the wrong amp, for the wrong purpose you are not going to sound great. If you take your time you can have the Helix sound absolutely brilliant. The amp models are 100% authentic, the effects are stellar and last but not least, you can get a great professional sound at ridiculous price points. We are living in the best of all times from the options we have at our disposal. Cheers and have a great time.

@salvadorsilva109

5 жыл бұрын

Horst Keller VIP-Guitar this was a really well-written and thought out response

@Xplorer228

3 жыл бұрын

Sorry I'm a real noob but what do you run it through? I imagine it's through a PA system at a venue.. but what about practicing with your band?

@tossedpenny

3 жыл бұрын

@@Xplorer228 It can be run through an FRFR powered speaker cab which is the best option for these types of modeling units to get the most accurate amp/tone representation. Can also be run through regular guitar amp preferably using 4 cable method utilizing the amps effects loop. Also can be run straight through the band's mixing board if you happen to be using one for a garage/basement practice jam session.

Just use both! Get a HX Stomp and Kemper rig for best of both worlds!! Still cheaper than new USA guitar!

Had a Helix for over 2 years now. Love it. Struggled at first, stuck with it for a few months, then the penny dropped and now it just amazes me every time I pick it up. The best part is the community around it and the updates and support from Line 6 - which are the best in the industry. Can't recommend Helix highly enough.

Great vid. Thanks for the info. Nice TapeOp behind you. Love that mag.

I have just found your channel because of the Helix title. You’ve mentioned that you figured out the trick that can be applied for every amp sounding an acceptable way. It would be a good idea to demonstrate it in another video. Anyways I subscribed.

@jonoftheford

4 жыл бұрын

I asked the same question.

I’ve been eyeing one of these up for a month or so now, almost spooky to see this video pop up 😅 Love all your videos btw Rhett, keep up the good work 👍🏻👍🏻

@millichips1

5 жыл бұрын

Same here :0)

Very thoughtful review. I like how you were able to apply your experience using the Helix in a live setting. I use Helix Native (vst) and really really like it. I'd love to get a Helix Stomp or LT in the future if I ever start playing live again. For me, once I started using cab IR's (Redwire IR's especially) the sound improved drastically.

Thank you Rhett, for this overview. I am considering both, so finding this video was very timely. Liked & subscribed.

Rhett, I had heard that Kemper amps have an added compressor in their “Effects loop”. Give that a go on the Helix as well. I do this with the Deluxe Comp. I’ve been using the unit for a year and a half. It blows me away weekly in my tone shaping sessions. Thanks for this thoughtful description and test run 👍🏼

@jacobvandergriff4028

5 жыл бұрын

Steve Drown hi

Love my Helix LT. But I also love my amp and pedals. It’s nice having both as they allow you to tailor your rig to any given need.

Great vid, thanks Rhett. I'm thinking of getting one of these and found this vid far more useful than just about anything else out there. I'm also a tube amp (Two-Rock) + pedal board guy who plays many gigs and it was really good to hear what it was like to live with the Helix from the view of another busy working guitar player. Brilliant stuff.

I've been using the Helix since December. Most of the time its a pedal board but you are spot on. The Helix is close enough that for travel and quick gigs it will do the job. All those amps and effects too. This is a great tool for the working musician. Great video.

I have both the Kemper and the Axefx 3, I just sold my helix. So for a time I had all 3 of the big modelers. In my experience #1 would be the AxeFx 3, hands down the best. #2 would be the Kemper but only because of the amp profiling, the effects suck. #3 would be the Helix, only because I feel the amp models are not quite there (no audience member would notice though). The effects as always are magnificent.

I finally sold my rig and got a Helix LT. It’s been great not having to lug my entire rig around. Now I just need to get in a band and play shows with it...

@mce3210

4 жыл бұрын

Fershnibbity can we please start a band!?? 😃

I bought a Helix LT a few months ago and I love it.

Just got my Helix on your recommendation and it's really incredible. For someone like me it's so much easier than collecting amps and pedals and cabinets. Keep the great content coming.

I had a Helix since it was release in 2016 and let it go a couple of months ago. I spended huge, I mean "huge" amount of time and money to make it sounds as a real amp...I bought all the "golden nuggets" the digital industry was offering, everything from IR, plastic FRFR, then wooden FRFR, little amps, big amps...etc... After 2 years of twicking and studying all kind of tricks, routes and connections I gave up with it. My point of view from it... my likes... 1.Great tool for stage musicians that are used to hear their's sound with PA or innears. 2.Amazingly easy and friendly usable tool...probably it's bigger strengh 3.Easy tu use with your DAW...friendly to the computer from the first second, and records perfectly in the track. 4. Absurd options to choose a sound...(this poins is as good as bad) My dislikes 1. Never ending fight with the volume level in a band situation NO prescence 2. Sounds is always thin, there is NO punch on the air, it doesn't move air. 3. Extremely sensitive to pickups' gain, or guitar's change... 4 You usually like one or two sounds, and you won't need 300 amps to choose from, give me 10 amazing amps instead 5. There is a tiny latency in your fingers..that will end up bodering you... Finally I went back to the Tubes' world, where your sound is like your jeans...you know it and you can deal with it in 30 seconds...But sometimes I still missed the Helix...

@ledzeppelinqwe

5 жыл бұрын

did u try line 6 powercab in speaker mode for "amp in room" feeling?

@gabedraper7594

5 жыл бұрын

@@ledzeppelinqwe I played with a QSC K10, an FBT StageMaxx12, Alto 212 TS and a Friedman ASM 212...the last one sounds best...but you'll never have the feeling because digital sound don't punch they don't move air. The closer to a tru amp was goin into a tubes amp trought the return...and to a standar guitar´s speakers..

@carlhardwickofficial

5 жыл бұрын

The Kemper is the closest to a tube amp sound. Once the Kemper Kone comes out, it should give the amp in the room sound. Yeah, the Helix' distortion is too jagged sounding.

@gabedraper7594

5 жыл бұрын

Actually I bought a Headrush for home recording and it sounds way more real trought the return of my amp. As to Kemper's sound I heard it sounds and feel really close to a tube amp. Whats`that Kemper Kone..? Is new..?@@carlhardwickofficial

@carlhardwickofficial

5 жыл бұрын

@@gabedraper7594 Yes, search for "kemper kone" on KZread.

You are getting great sounds on that thing! My one great fear would be single point of failure.

@SpaceDisco1

5 жыл бұрын

Jimbeaux I understand that. On the other hand, if your tube amp breaks your gig is over as well no?

@Pudekz51790

3 жыл бұрын

@@SpaceDisco1 did you just compare an amp and an fx unit?

Timely video. Rhett, your playing has really improved, keep it up. I enjoy the content in your videos.

I have been playing a Fender Big Apple Strat through a Line6 HD500 into my Peavey Delta Blues 115 for 7 years. Bought a Helix LT today. Arrives Wednesday. Can't wait!

I want an HX Stomp so bad. I'd love to show up to the gig with just my Esquire and the Stomp in a gig bag and that's it.

@TheRycooder

5 жыл бұрын

But the Stomp doesn't have amps does it?

@jakestewartmusic

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheRycooder It has all the amps, cabs, mics, and effects that Helix has. Only difference is that it has less DSP and available blocks per snapshot or preset. You only get 6 blocks to work with. For me, that's plenty.

@michaelhenggeler223

5 жыл бұрын

@Aaron what do you think about it compared to the 100?

@markbrooks7257

5 жыл бұрын

Hooter Bear you’re thinking of HX Effects. HX Effects: Up to 9 blocks, Effects only, with eight total footswitches HX Stomp: Up to 6 blocks, ALL Helix amps and effects, three footswitches total (you can add two more with an external controller). The HX Effects is for people who are always going to be using a real amp. The HX Stomp is best as a complete simple rig or as a great part of an overall larger rig.

@certifieddinks3943

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheRycooder It does, it has all of the effects and all of the amp/cabs, its just limited to six block chains.

I would really LOVE to see a multi FX pedal that was an open platform like a DAW.. You buy the hardware and then purchase plugins from Line 6, Kemper, Fractal, etc. That way you can mix and match everything from different vendors. If only... 😏

@FVRS97

4 жыл бұрын

You can do that by using an audio interface connected to a notebook and then get a foot controller like the line 6 fbv3.

Sold all off my Orange Rockerverb, Peavey 5150 and pedalboard to get the rack unit... NO REGRETS! The thing is incredible.

This is really helpful to know. Thank Rhett!

Well Reviewed .. Thank You .. Merci Beaucoup .. !!

How many albums and for how many years have modelers been on recording we hear on the radio and just assumed it was a tube amp?

@jakebergen1837

5 жыл бұрын

Way more than some people want to admit 😅

@ripplebear

4 жыл бұрын

Some big musicians that I know use the digital stuff for writing and inspiration, but then go back to their other gear to set up those sounds for recording and live shows. I can see that being very useful. Obviously no right or wrong way to do any of this stuff, as long as you're having fun and getting results that you want!

@Lysdexia

4 жыл бұрын

Def Leppard's Phil Collen has been recording with Native Instruments Guitar Rig for years. The digital vs analogue debate is a sideshow now - all that matters is that your rig serves up what you need.

I've never loved a piece of gear more than I love my Helix. Although it's not for everybody, I think it's awesome for anyone that is looking for something versatile and great sounding for both live and studio use. Great vid!!!

Just had the same experience over the past year or so. My amps stay for studio use. My HX Stomp sits on my board for gigs and works like a champ. My backup board sports an Ampli-Firebox. I'm really satisfied.