I Was SO WRONG!! Line 6 Got This PERFECT! | HX One

Jason Sadites
5 Aug 202421:13

TLDRIn this video, the host initially dismisses the Line 6 HX1 pedal, expecting it to be just another algorithmic effects processor. However, after a deeper dive, they are impressed by its versatility and integration with the HX ecosystem, praising its flux feature, MIDI compatibility, and routing capabilities. The HX1 is demonstrated with the ToneX pedal, showcasing its ability to enhance tones with a wide array of effects, ultimately earning the host's admiration and a spot on their pedalboard.

Takeaways

  • 🎸 The HX1 pedal from Line 6 is a compact multi-effects processor that integrates with the HX ecosystem.
  • 🔄 Initially, the speaker was not excited about the HX1, thinking it was just another algorithmic pedal, but was proven wrong after deeper investigation.
  • 🌐 The HX1 allows users to run one algorithm at a time with the innovative 'flux' feature for dynamic parameter transitions.
  • 🔧 It offers extensive routing and assignment possibilities, making it highly customizable for different setups.
  • 🎵 MIDI compatibility and external foot switch support provide additional flexibility in controlling the HX1.
  • 🔊 The pedal can be used in various configurations, including as an insert in a 4-cable method setup.
  • 🛠️ The settings menu is comprehensive, with options for input gate, impedance, in-out configuration, and more.
  • 🎛️ Flux mode enables the user to create smooth transitions between different effect parameters, adding a new level of expression.
  • 🔄 The 'tap/flux' button allows for tap tempo functionality and quick switching between flux and preset modes.
  • 🎹 The HX1 is not just limited to Line 6 products; it can be used to enhance the capabilities of other modelers like the ToneX.
  • 🌟 The speaker highly recommends the HX1, praising its features and the positive impact it has had on their pedalboard setup.

Q & A

  • What is the main topic of the video?

    -The main topic of the video is the Line 6 HX1 pedal, discussing its features, capabilities, and integration with other products like the ToneX pedal.

  • What was the initial impression of the reviewer about the HX1 pedal?

    -The reviewer initially wasn't excited about the HX1 pedal, thinking it was just another algorithmic effects processor, but later found it to be a great addition to their pedal board.

  • What is the 'flux' feature on the HX1 pedal?

    -The 'flux' feature on the HX1 pedal allows for smooth transitions between different parameter settings, acting like an elaborate snapshot system for effect parameters.

  • How does the HX1 pedal integrate with non-Line 6 products?

    -The HX1 pedal integrates with non-Line 6 products by using a 4-cable method, as demonstrated with the ToneX pedal, allowing it to bring Line 6's HX effects into other products.

  • What are some of the effects available on the HX1 pedal?

    -The HX1 pedal offers a wide range of effects from the HX ecosystem, including distortion, dynamics, EQ modules, delays, reverbs, pitch effects, and a looper.

  • How does the 4-cable method setup work with the HX1 pedal?

    -In the 4-cable method setup, the guitar goes straight into the HX1, then out to the ToneX pedal, back into the HX1, and finally out to the audio interface, allowing for the use of the HX1's effects in an insert mode.

  • What is the purpose of the 'input impedance' setting on the HX1 pedal?

    -The 'input impedance' setting on the HX1 pedal affects how certain effects react to the input signal, allowing the user to adjust it for optimal sound quality with different effects blocks.

  • How can the HX1 pedal be controlled via MIDI?

    -The HX1 pedal can be controlled via MIDI by setting up MIDI configurations in the settings menu, such as MIDI through, program change, control, channel, and clock, enabling the user to control effects and presets remotely.

  • What is the 'tap tempo' feature on the HX1 pedal used for?

    -The 'tap tempo' feature on the HX1 pedal allows the user to set the tempo for time-based effects like delays and reverbs by tapping a button to match the desired speed.

  • How does the HX1 pedal handle multiple presets?

    -The HX1 pedal allows the user to save multiple presets, each with different effect settings, and switch between them using the preset select feature, with options for instant load or load on exit.

Outlines

00:00

🎸 Initial Skepticism and Discovery of HX1 Pedal's Potential

The speaker begins by expressing initial skepticism towards the Line 6 HX1 pedal, having assumed it to be just another algorithmic pedal with limited capabilities. However, upon deeper investigation and personal experience, they are impressed by the HX1's ability to integrate various effects from the HX ecosystem, including those from Helix and HX Stomp. The HX1 is likened to a mini HX effect processor with unique features such as flux mode for dynamic parameter transitions and extensive routing options. The speaker highlights the pedal's MIDI compatibility, expression pedal support, and overall well-thought-out design, leading to a change of heart and a decision to incorporate the HX1 into their setup.

05:01

🔧 Detailed Setup and Configuration of the HX1 Pedal

The speaker proceeds to detail the setup and configuration process of the HX1 pedal, focusing on the 4-cable method for integrating it with the non-Linear product, the Tonx pedal. They describe the global settings necessary for this setup, including input and output configurations, impedance settings, and the importance of the insert position. The speaker also explains the various settings available in the HX1, such as input gate, impedance, bypass modes, screen brightness, and tap tempo functionalities. Additionally, they discuss the flexibility of the pedal's position (pre or post amp) and the customization options for external pedals and expression pedals.

10:01

🎵 Exploring the HX1's Effects and Flux Feature

In this section, the speaker delves into the HX1's effects capabilities, demonstrating the use of the transistor tape delay and showcasing the pedal's flux feature. Flux is described as an advanced snapshot system that allows for dynamic transitions between parameter settings. The speaker illustrates how to set up flux for the delay effect, creating a smooth transition between different time and mix settings. They also touch on the customization options for the flux feature, including adjusting on and off curve times for instantaneous or gradual parameter changes.

15:05

🛠 Utilizing HX1 for Polyphonic Capabilities and Tuning

The speaker explores the HX1's polyphonic capabilities, using it as a poly capo to achieve different tunings such as half-step and whole-step down from standard tuning. They demonstrate how to configure the HX1 to work in this mode and emphasize the importance of setting the amp post effect for optimal sound quality. The speaker also explains how to use the flux feature to create instant or gradual transitions between different tunings, and they save the settings as a preset for quick access.

20:05

🌟 HX1's Versatility and MIDI Integration Praise

The speaker concludes by praising the HX1's versatility and MIDI integration, which opens up a wide range of possibilities for controlling the pedal's effects. They express their admiration for the product, which they initially underestimated, and encourage others to consider the HX1 for its ability to handle a multitude of effects with great potential for creative sound design. The speaker also mentions that their positive review is not sponsored, but a genuine appreciation for the HX1 after receiving a complimentary unit from Line 6 for evaluation.

🎵 Final Musical Demonstration and Preset Promotion

The speaker wraps up the video with a musical demonstration using one of their presets available on the Line 6 marketplace, specifically the 'Line 6 Helix Brit j45 bright ultimate preset.' They invite viewers to enjoy the music and check out the link provided for the tones featured in the video, as well as the preset being showcased at the end of the presentation.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡HX One

The HX One is a compact pedal from Line 6 that offers a variety of effects from the Helix and HX Stomp ecosystems. It can run one algorithm at a time and features a unique 'flux' mode for dynamic parameter changes. The video showcases its versatility and integration with other gear.

💡Line 6

Line 6 is a company known for creating innovative digital modeling products for musicians. The HX One is one of their products, which integrates effects from their Helix and HX Stomp lines. The video highlights the effectiveness of Line 6's engineering in the HX One pedal.

💡Algorithms

Algorithms in the context of the HX One refer to the various digital effects that the pedal can produce, such as delays, reverbs, and modulation effects. The video mentions the ability to use a wide range of these effects, albeit one at a time.

💡Flux Feature

The flux feature in the HX One allows users to dynamically change multiple parameters of an effect in real-time. This is demonstrated in the video as a unique selling point of the pedal, enhancing its functionality beyond static presets.

💡4 Cable Method

The 4 cable method is a way to integrate the HX One into a guitar rig, allowing it to be placed both before and after an amplifier's preamp section. The video details the setup process and benefits of using this method with the HX One.

💡MIDI Compatibility

MIDI compatibility in the HX One allows it to interface with other MIDI-enabled devices for advanced control and synchronization. The video mentions its MIDI capabilities as a key feature, enhancing its integration into complex setups.

💡Expression Pedal

An expression pedal can be connected to the HX One to control various parameters of the effects in real-time. The video highlights this as a significant feature for live performance flexibility.

💡Routing

Routing refers to how the signal is directed through the HX One and other connected gear. The video explains different routing options, such as mono, stereo, and the 4 cable method, showing the pedal's versatility.

💡Preset

Presets in the HX One are saved configurations of effect parameters that can be quickly recalled. The video shows how presets can be created, modified, and accessed, making the pedal user-friendly.

💡Tonex Pedal

The Tonex pedal is another piece of gear used in the video to demonstrate the HX One. It shows how the HX One can enhance and integrate with other pedals, expanding tonal possibilities.

Highlights

Initial skepticism about the Line 6 HX1 pedal's unique value given the availability of algorithms in Helix and HX Stomp.

The HX1's ability to integrate with non-Line 6 products, demonstrated with the ToneX pedal.

Introduction of the HX1's 'flux' feature for dynamic parameter transitions within effects.

The HX1's compact size and its capacity to host a wide array of effects from the HX ecosystem.

MIDI compatibility and external foot switch compatibility of the HX1 pedal.

The 4-cable method setup for using the HX1 with other effects pedals or modelers.

Detailed explanation of the HX1's settings menu for customization.

Use of the HX1 as a poly-Capo for on-the-fly tuning adjustments.

The HX1's input and output level settings for optimal signal flow.

Options for true bypass or DSP buffered bypass on the HX1.

The HX1's tap tempo functionality and its ability to act as a flux control.

How to set the HX1 for pre or post amp effects positioning.

Utilization of the HX1's 'flux' feature for creating elaborate effect transitions.

The HX1's preset select options for instant or load-now preset changes.

Control over the HX1 via external pedals and expression pedals for expanded functionality.

MIDI settings for advanced control and synchronization with other devices.

The HX1's tuner feature with options for muting and sharp/flat display.

Authentic and transparent tempo pitch options for delay effects.

The presenter's change of heart and strong endorsement of the HX1 after testing its capabilities.

A demonstration of the HX1's effects in conjunction with the ToneX pedal.

The HX1's role as a powerful addition to any pedalboard for its versatility and integration potential.