Line 6 Helix

summer 2017 ToTal GuiTar
101
FINaL VeRdICt
Which modelling unit is the right one for you?
t
he world of modelling is now fully
grown up. It’s commonplace to  nd
records by small and touring bands
that use fully modelled ampli ers
– whether it be from a plug-in like
Positive Grid’s BIAS, or a hardware rack unit
like the Axe-Fx. The tools might be di erent,
but this change in attitude means not only
that use of modelling will become more
common, but that manufacturers will seek to
deliver more options to consumers. In some
ways, this all started with the Line 6 POD, and
so it seems appropriate that Line 6 is
attempting to reclaim its seat at the big boys’
table. In any case, hardware is a di erent
ball-game to software and only the Helix LT
of the two units featured here really seems to
have e ortlessly balanced the two halves of
the equation.
If you’re after something that’s easy to get
up-and-running with but not particularly
interested in having the most lifelike amp
sounds on the planet, then the Helix is the
obvious choice. If amps matter to you more
than e ects, then go with the HeadRush, but
remember that in both cases third-party IRs
can be loaded to completely change the
character of the amps. Avid o ers a couple of
free Celestion IRs via the HeadRush site, and
Line 6 has the Allure pack available from its
own, so you might not even have to purchase
extras. The bottom line is that either of these
fl oorboards could be a radical simpli cation
of your rig if you’re a function, covers or
bedroom player. Even with the amp
modelling turned o , these compact units
could replace a much more complicated
pedalboard and run into your favourite amp,
with no tonal compromise.
TH
E G
AS
S
T
A
T
I
O
N
HEaDruSH
PEDalBoarD
liNE 6
HEliX lT
Best for
effects
features
sound QualItY
Value for moneY
BuIld QualItY
plaYaBIlItY
oVerall ratIng
SuMMarY
features
sound QualItY
Value for moneY
BuIld QualItY
plaYaBIlItY
oVerall ratIng
SuMMarY
Best for amp
modellIng
Best BuY
aWard
HEaDruSH
PEDalBoarD
TGR296.gear_test.indd 101 20/07/2017 11:34