My Setup for Recording Guitar with the Line 6 Helix and an Audio Interface

[@AaHo0102]

You are doing the Helix Metal community a huge service man.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Just happy to help man! Thanks for the support!

[@Yahoomediaclub]

I’m not a metal player etc, but feeling these tones are leaning towards Thrash / Metal / as I’m not seeing much content on “ Normal” Guitar if that’s the correct term...maybe this Genre is suited to these Helix tones

[@lukepowell1201]

2024 and this is literally the exact video I was looking for after sifting through several. How do I use a Helix when I want to actually also use my nice recording interface? Like this, that's how. Clear and easy to follow video.

[@adamwhizbang]

Holy shit. I'm so glad I found you. I'm a pro voice over actor who had to whip together a home studio after COVID-19 hit, but I'm also an amateur guitar player who really wants to learn how to record my music. I bought a Helix floor model a couple years ago after using previous Line 6 floor models, but it intimidates the hell out of me. Figuring out how to hook it up to my computer has been daunting...until today when I found you! Guitar>Helix>Audient iD14>computer. Duh! Then I don't need a separate set of cables going from my Helix to my monitors' second set of inputs. It just all routes through the iD14. I don't know why that didn't occur to me. I think because of the USB connection directly to the computer. Whatever. You just saved me from having to buy a $300 monitor controller. And since you, too, use Studio One, I'm guessing I have a LOT to learn from you. I'm in, dude. Thanks for posting!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

So glad I was able to help man! All the best in adapting to our giving situations. We've had to do the same thing here in my household. Dig through the videos, I'm sure there is some more info that you may find useful. Cheers!

[@adamwhizbang]

@@NickHillMakesMusic Question: Curious about why you didn't choose to go with an optical connection vs twin XLRs. With your set up, aren't you going from analog (guitar) > digital (Helix) > back to analog (XLR cables) > back to digital (interface) > digital (computer/DAW)? If the end goal is to turn the guitar's analog signal to a digital one the DAW can read and process, wouldn't it make more sense to keep things digital? Is there a benefit I don't know about to your set up? Something to do with the quality of the XLR signal sound? Just a matter of what cables you had around? I'm dumb about this stuff yet, searching for a clue.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I actually am using spdif now.

[@pabloandresramoscamacho6150]

Men! I love this video so much! You can imagine how calm I am after watching this, thank you VERY MUCH!

[@slipkhein66]

I’ve had a helix floor for a year now and I always wanted to learn how to record with it. Thank you so much for this simple and super Informative video

[@evanstanfield96]

Just discovered your channel after getting a Helix. Your videos are awesome! Thanks for your work!

[@G-Rockmusic]

So if you are just recording in mono, why connect both left and right? Can I just use the left, mono output to record?? My interface only has 2 ins and I’d like one of those to be a mic.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Sure. You can absolutely do that. I like having both for stereo effects.

[@adambriggs6734]

I'm late to the game but I just ordered my Helix. I have the same interface as you so this was crazy helpful. Thanks so much. Liked and subscribed.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Welcome man! Thanks for the sub

[@heey_George8904]

​@@NickHillMakesMusicquestion, do I need to plug the XLR left and right to my interface right? I own a Scarlett 2I2

[@Lucas-KnifeHands]

This video is exactly what I was looking for. Just subscribed, bloody top stuff mate !

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Stoked I was able to help you man!

[@amdenis]

Great video, and you are so chill and unassuming. Very useful video. As a question to you, , I am not sure what you mean by it not being as clean. I assume maybe you mean its default interface if you don't choose a custom template via SWS and add Reapack. As context for my question and where I am coming from, I own and operate a few music studios and media labs, and was involved with starting LIHTI and the MIT Media Lab (CSAIL). We use several. DAW's from popular ones like Cubase, Live and PT, to specialized high end ones like Pyramix Quintessence and Reaper with Flux. All I can say is that unless you need specific capabilities of something like Pyramix, the UI, workflow and customizability of Reaper and support from the community are unmatched. You can actually choose to make the UI reflect the style, "clean look", interactivity and look and feel of anything. Also, there are numerous things, output and input formats and so many others that a DAW like Reaper can do, but no other's can. However, generally the converse is not at all the case. Reaper just outperforms, provides more workflow and functional options than any of the other common DAW's As far as a video request-- how about using Helix as a multitrack plus 2Bus pre/post FX DI?

[@JaysonSantos]

2022 and this video still extremely useful.

[@6stringmanny]

Thank you for this video!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Glad to share!

[@owe-mandjo9971]

Excellent! Simple, straight to the point. Great work as always Nick

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Glad to help man!

[@ColinAverill]

I recently got an audio interface and I'm using Reaper. I also own a Pod Go, so I was curious (and figured I could) use the Pod Go into my interface, even though I knew I could use the Pod Go as the interface. Super excited to see what I come up with. I'm brand new to just about all of this, so thank you!

[@jakecj69]

Can you please expand on your Helix output settings - Mic or Line level going into the Apollo XLRs?

[@alternativesessions134]

Nick, I have the same question!

[@mark130471]

Same question

[@G-Rockmusic]

It’s going to be line level for sure.

[@G-Rockmusic]

But remember you can change that in your global one and outs settings. Should be set to line.

[@chris_and_music]

Just in time. Thank you very much, Nick! BTW, a tutorial on how to properly use the Parametric EQ in the Helix would be awesome

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

ahh yes, the mystery of EQ

[@xluciferlux]

Great vid man 💯

[@stewarttdale]

Love your content. It's so inspirational. Could you do an episode on your setup for creating your episode? I want to record myself working in my DAW to show some bandmates some ideas but I'm not sure how to record it all with using one DAW project to record the guitar and DAW work and something to record the audio as well.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

That’s quite an involved video but I’ll do what I can

[@stewarttdale]

@@NickHillMakesMusic , right now I use a focusrite 2i2 as my audio input, but am having hard time capturing sound from DAW since using AISO drivers and its being sent directly out to focusrite. I assume your using something like a second computer/etc to record the audio for vocals along w/ any computer output?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Nope, it's actually far less complcated than that. I'm using OBS to capture my screen and a program on Mac called Audio Hijack to capture the audio from my DAW. I'm sure they have comparable software for windows and I know OBS is available on Windows.

[@JackTaylorGuitars]

Super useful video dude, thanks very much! Helping me make sense of running my Pod Go into a stand-alone interface now I have the need for a simultaneous mic input too. Less daunting than I thought🤘

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Glad to help man!

[@rezolution6272]

First time here, Thumbs Up, Subscribed \m/

[@hodshonf]

guitar to Radial J48 to RME Babyface Pro - Helix Native. just got Native 2nd hand for half retail. your videos are crucial for getting a grip on the signal path in Helix. thank you!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Glad to hear it man!

[@charlesmerfeld2988]

Thanks for the upload explains basics etc. Perfect for getting me started

[@joshsanders2775]

Awesome video Nick! I'm excited to hear your stuff man!!

[@46b35]

Thanks you for the tips. Outstanding video

[@alternativesessions134]

Thank you! Very nice :) Do you use „Mic“ or „Line“ in the Global Settings for the XLR Output?

[@HarleyBob957]

Thanks man, just the info I was looking for.

[@maxpower975]

thanks you sooooooo much for doing this video, this is what I was looking for!

[@carlossalazar3177]

Digging your Spotify!! Love the content, getting back into the game after a 15 yr Hiatus. Getting some monster tones with your vids! Cheers!!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Dude! That’s honestly one of my favorite things to read. Go get it man. Welcome back and just enjoy making music. So stoked I helped get you going again. Cheers and thanks so much for diggin my music. It means the world to me.

[@briimcfly]

Stayed for the informative vid, subbed for the ducks swag ..

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I stopped myself from saying the cheesiest line from the Mighty Ducks movie. Anaheim Ducks fan for life! Thanks for being here man!

[@scottoliphant931]

Great video! it really is that easy. Although I understand how people get intimidated by it. Recording yourself is one thing but achieving a good mix is another thing but like you were saying you don't need the fancy things to get stuff to sound good!

[@stonelark]

Excellent stuff, Nick!! I ended up splitting my guitar signal (via a Samson MDA1 preamp) before the Helix Stomp, then taking the clean/dry MDA1 signal into CH1 Mic of the Apollo Twin (+48V powers the MDA1), and the wet L channel out of the HX Stomp into CH2 line level on the the Apollo. That way I can also record a dry guitar track if I want to use S-Gear, Neural DSP, or Helix Native plugins later.

[@TheDjma1]

Not sure about the stomp but i think usb channel 7-8 on the helix will always spit out a direct track?

[@gurlerium]

also share what plugins you use during recording like drums, modulations, mixing techs etc. cheers

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I’ve done this :)

[@JsonMGod]

Why 2 XLR cables into the Apollo? Why not just a 1/4 out into the Apollo hz input? Love your videos! Always helpful

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Yo! HiZ is for an instrument input, also, I’m “printing,” The sounds by going out of the helix and into an audio interface. The two XLR‘s are so that if I want to capture stereo effects from the helix, I can do so.

[@JsonMGod]

@@NickHillMakesMusic got ya. Just curious, cause I have the same interface and I just got a helix rack today! I’m gonna try this set up with my interface.

[@JsonMGod]

@@NickHillMakesMusic 1 xlr or trs cable will be fine for just mono?

[@KlaudioPulk]

Great explanation, very accurate. thanks bro

[@jacobcancino7849]

Quick question: So the Line 6 HX Stomp doesn't have XLR outs, but it has regular 1/4 inch L and R outs. My audio interface has two 1/4 inch ins. Does this mean I can use your set up but with two balanced 1/4 inch cables instead of XLRs? Your vids are extremely helpful btw, thanks!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Yep, Give it a shot

[@tilleyroadaffairproduction6752]

I have the same question and was wondering if you did that and if it worked. I have a M-Audio 192-14 with a pod go.

[@jacobcancino7849]

@@tilleyroadaffairproduction6752 I haven't yet, sorry about that. Still trying to save up to get the Stomp. I honestly think it should work though, now that I think about it. Once I get it, and if you haven't tried it yet, I'll make sure to post it here 👌

[@asant90]

It should work the same way.

[@motorcomediaproductions]

Hi Nick, can you explain the L and R out of the helix in to Apollo? When i do so, i have both channels in mono but not in stereo like i see your interface. Couldn't you just run the L out of the helix instead of both L and R? Thats how i am currently using it. Thank you for your time. - Caleb

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Absolutely you can!

[@stevensass3933]

Thanks for this! straightforward and informative. It’s really frustrating to find myself not even being able to start tracking properly because there seems to be this snooty disposition that the viewer should already have prior competency with these products. And what’s with all the acronyms?? Thankfully I at least know what a DAW is!!!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Glad to help. I think there needs to be a definite “meet in the middle,” thing Wigan it comes to learning in this non traditional, online fashion. The “student,” should be expected to do some level of research. Don’t know what an acronym means? Pause video and look it up. The teacher isn’t necessarily doing it to make YOU feel below them. Believe me, I am not thinking of who may be watching any of my videos at any particular level because if I did, they would all either never get made or, months and months long to get everyone on the same page. Chip away at this stuff. Your getting free information at the end of the day. Cheers man and I’m glad I was able to help

[@stevensass3933]

@@NickHillMakesMusic I didn’t want to come off as ungrateful and certainly appreciate the free advice. I was just venting a bit at the frustration I feel from my own incompetence. You’re entirely correct. The info is being presented and it’s up to me to put in time. Thanks!

[@stevetharms]

Thanks for the video, super helpful! I'm curious if you're running the XLR outs from the helix at mic or line level? I recently bought an interface and plan on running my helix into that before hitting the computer. Sounds like there's the possibility of the preamps in the interface itself slightly coloring the signal coming from the helix? Have you found this to be the case?

[@paulfinnon6566]

Interesting video and new subscriber. Do you plug your headphones into the audio interface or the helix? I only turn my stomp xl on when I am playing so don't want to have to use this as my permanent computer audio interface. However, I currently have to switch monitor cables etc to my stomp when I decide to play through this. I ideally want to use the audio interface (Focusrite Scarlett 2i2) as the "brain" that everything (headphones / monitor / MIDI keyboard) goes through and the stomp is an accessory when I choose to use it. I don't know if this makes sense.

[@koltonmollohan7028]

Thank you for making this video, very helpful.

[@KyleFox007]

If I'm already using the Helix as my interface, is there an advantage to also using an audio interface?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Simple answer is... nope. Helix is a great interface. It will suit your needs for sure

[@robmlisanti]

@@NickHillMakesMusic Can you use it along with the edit software?

[@Gunderslam]

Rad video, stoked for that EP!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Thanks Gundy

[@bropetersbropeters193]

First of all, this video is very good, a much needed tutorial for absolute beginners. I have a Helix Line 6 and a Steinberg UR44. My UR44 doesn't have XLR on the back like yours, but it does have Line Input. Do I need a special XLR cable with two different ends to replicate what you have?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Glad it helped. You can get an adapter or a cable with XLR to 1/4 and replicate this with your setup

[@Music.is.my.Fuel.]

Thanks for your content Nick!

[@MP-yp5je]

Great video. What setting in the Helix are you using for the XLR outputs? MIC or LINE? Thanks!

[@sergejk]

Settings on Helix for XLR outputs are? :) Line,Mic?

[@alternativesessions134]

I have the same question :D

[@georgekiapos1]

Thanks, Nick. I seem to be having an issue with getting really scratchy takes when I record my Helix Lt into Apollo Twin Duo into Computer/ProTools. Do you offer paid consultations? LMK.

[@micheleg.2244]

Hello, If I got it right you say that I can use just an audio interface and use my computer to build the effects.... I need to plug a guitar and a mic, and record both... So i was thinking of plugging the helix to an audio interface...

[@AndrewStonerock]

I run mine the exact same way. Mostly because my Eleven Rack likes to crash my PC mid session. So I run Eleven - focusright 18i8 - PC. Eleven USB plugged into PC for the editor.. I also mic my cab and get tone captures from that.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Yeah man, it just opens up the flexibility

[@GJ1970]

Great video! This is my setup, too. What advantage do you find with connecting the Helix rack to the Apollo via XLR vs. the 1/4" outs?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

None. You’d get the same results! Cheers man

[@eiklaful]

@@NickHillMakesMusic haha, that's a great answer :)

[@sergejk]

as i am concerned ... disadvantages are if you're gigging with your Helix ...each time you will be disconnecting speakers from Helix (as main sound card), your computer will be also disconnected from the speakers. You will have no tone in between :) Sometimes i leave my Helix at rehearsals place and if i want to use my computer at home there will be no place to connect speakers to :)

[@veyuslavic2590]

In this setup you have walked us through, would it also be compatible with using the audio interface for something Neural DSP out through the studio monitors (or headphones of the audio interface) without interference from the Line 6 Helix rack? Also, is there a way to get audio of the guitar tone through headphones while, at the same time, getting the audio from the computer running, let's say, iTunes, if you wanted to play along with a song and not worry about recording?

[@accentontheoff]

Hi, is there a big difference in audio quality between using an audio interface V/s USB, for recording. Which one’s better. I’m most likely getting the new (newish?) Pod Go, and plan on doing the same thing. Thanks!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

There is no audible difference. You’ll be good to go. It is my belief, that anybody Who says they can hear a difference, is being disingenuous. Get the pod go, it’s an amazing little Piece of shit and I think you’re gonna be pleased. Happy recording and good luck

[@accentontheoff]

@@NickHillMakesMusic Got it thanks 😊 for the reply!

[@accentontheoff]

@@NickHillMakesMusic If you don’t mind me asking, how would you compare the quality of the tones achieved using the Helix, as you have shown here, with those achieved by using a guitar software plug-in like Guitar Rig… thanks.

[@thebunn]

That riff! I challenge you to make it into something sick. Hahaaa! It's possibly possible.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Challenge accepted good sir

[@christophkelley4012]

"Whew".... I was starting to suffer from separation anxiety... LOL.. Thank you so much Nick !! Truth be told is there a difference in Quality using the UA twin as opposed to using the Helix as an audio interface or should I not even bother? I have been looking real hard at getting one, but swimming in the never ending interface Ocean has tired me out... Lay it on me brother ! If its worth it; I am going to hit the buy now button..... As always Thx for the vids and your time.. I know how precious the time is that it takes to make them... Your fellow SO-CAL Metal head.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I only use it for inputs when I record guitar. You don’t need it. Get as more affordable usb 3 interface and use the rest in plugins or something else.

[@christophkelley4012]

Thanx Nick

[@cogumerlimgaming9803]

Hi, thanks a lot for the video. I have the same type of equipment (a Helix LT and a UA Apollo Solo), but have been recording guitars straight from Helix's USB, using the UA just for vocals. This setup would help me maintain consistency throughout the projects in the DAW (and no need to switch audio gears in the project, be subject to conflicts, etc.). However, I still have two questions: 1) How do you monitor yourself? You've set your sample rate really low, so I understand you're still using some kind of direct monitoring. Is it from Helix or from the UA's Console? If it's from the Console, do you keep it on "monitor" or also on "record"? 2) How do you track a separate clean signal to eventually reamp later? I think that's one of the most useful features in Helix, to be able to record from two different channels (1 and 7) into two separate tracks, getting one wet and one dry signal for later reamping. Is it possible to do in this setup? Thanks again!

[@cogumerlimgaming9803]

Oh, rewatching the video, I noticed you basically only record mono. So you don't really need both XLR's going out of Helix into the interface, only the left one. My point is that, in my case, I could run just that one XLR from the Helix into the Apollo, leaving the second channel in the interface open for 48v phantom powered things, such as a DI or a mic. Because I'm terrible at mixing, I definitely need to get the DI sound to help the mix engineer later on, so I'll probably get a Radial J48 for that. That way I can still record the in the same way (capturing both the mono processed Helix sound and the DI guitar sound), but having the consistency of levels between projects and good flexibility regarding outputs (monitors from the Apollo and FRFRs from the Helix). One last question, that I'm seeing many people make, but still no answer: mic or line output level from the Helix XLR's? I'm assuming mic? Or is it just a matter of matching whatever you send to what you're receiving in the interface? (the apollo, for example, differentiates between mic and line signals, so I guess it's really just a matter of matching, right?). Also, I'm producing my songs for the first time in decades (really, some of them are 15+ years old, but life held me back from producing them properly). I'd really like to know how you get your singles and EPs publicized. Once I have at least three or four properly produced, I'll look into it in more depth. Thanks a lot for all the videos and info!

[@emanuelejommarini3642]

if you use the xlr of the tarjeta to connect it to the Helix, then where will you connect the microphones? Thank you

[@metalal5150]

Hi Nick . Thanks a bunch for your hard work and your videos ! I know it's an old video but I do have a question. How on earth????? Are you keeping the output on helix at full ??? I have Roland quad cap and when I go anywhere near half the output on the master then I have to put all my DAW and Roland gain and the rest at near to zero sensitivity? What's your sensitivity on Apollo at when you're killing it with max on the helixes master output? Thanks brother!!! New subscriber

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Hey man, i don't have this setup anymore BUT, I often used a pad for the inputs if I ran into this. If it's still too hot, perhaps find a spot on the Helix output that works for your setup and perhaps make note of it with some tape and a marker or something to that degree. I hope that helps

[@christianfilouler]

Hi, very interesting video just stumbled across it. I also use the Helix LT as an interface. Otherwise Motu M2 interface for MIC. Why don't you use the helix as an interface and go over the external interface? Advantages ? Greetings from Germany

[@xploitedclam9235]

Wouldn't it a better signal chain if you just used spdif out / in on your audio interface? Thus avoiding all the ADC and DAC conversions going on? aka helix converting to analog, sending to the audio interface and the interface converting to digital again. I have an hxstomp so i can't sadly do that.. but if i had digital out on the stomp that would be what id do!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

xploited clam who knows. All I know as that this is what works for me and when I A/B this with going straight in to either my Mac or PC vis USB, there is no audible difference. If you end up being able to run that setup, make a video or some comparisons to test your theory.

[@jatney]

I'm confused, I thought the Rack would also work as a Mic processor? Or is that only on the Helix Floor? And can't you directly use the rack as well as the output device of your computer? I'm new to this and am tossing up which helix hardware I want XD

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

There is a microphone input on the rack, yes. But I prefer to flexibility of using a dedicated interface. I have videos on using the helix either as it’s own audio interface or WITH or in conjunction with an audio interface. It depends on your needs.

[@toki9367]

Can you suggest an (affordable) headphone to use with the Helix? Which impedance should I choose?

[@jakeyboy2929]

Glad i stumbled across this and thank you. If you are only recording mono then why did you go out of both Left and Right XLR? I have the UAD Arrow so I/O's are at a minimum. Would just using the Left mono output of the helix into the Arrow get the same results? I tend to only record guitar in mono anyway. Also you keep your channel volume on your amp at 10 but what about master volume on amp as well? I see the reason you do the max volume though and it makes totally sense. Just the though of going through all my patches now and changes them to 10 gives me a headache ha

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

...simple, because sometimes I record and play with stereo effects

[@ViewFromBelow]

Your videos have been super helpful dude!! Thanks for putting this content out. Quick question though: I’ve been seeing in all the helix videos I watch that when an external interface is involved, people hook the helix up to it with xlr cables, as you said. Why is this? I know they’re balanced, but so are TRS cables. Is there a reason people use XLR in this application instead of TRS?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Thanks for the kind words man. To your question, I think it’s simply because I have a shit load if XLR cables. I’d say both work the same

[@xeniebaby]

Thank you for your videos! They’ve really helped me record with my hx stomp as an audio interface. However, I’m still unable to adjust the input gain when I’m trying to take levels before recording since the hx stomp does not have a knob for adjusting the input gain. I found that I can reduce the input gain by lowering the volume on my guitar but can’t raise it once my Guitar’s volume is at 10. I made sure that the amp in the chain’s channel volume is at 10 as well but I still can’t get the input past -15db on my daw (logic) when I would like for it to be closer to -12 or -6db to get a nice, healthy signal. The volume knob on the hx stomp acts as a monitor and only affects the volume at which I’m hearing it in my headphones and not the signal itself. I thought about maybe adding a gain plugin while recording in the track’s channel strip but I don’t know if that would distort the signal or do something else to the take’s audio quality. Is there anyway to adjust the input gain? Thanks and have a nice day!

[@Maxischupp93]

Niick! I want to upgrade my silent recording away from vst amps. What should i buy? Helix lt vs revv g20 vs Hughes kettner black spirit 200 vs bluguitar iridium

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I can’t answer that man. I only have experience with the Helix

[@Maxischupp93]

@@NickHillMakesMusic np man, awesome video tho! Keep it up :)

[@orangepapya]

Thanks for making this video! Wondering if you have any thoughts on Helix Native? Do you see a big benefit to using this system as opposed to just going into your Apollo and just putting on the plugin?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Hey Sammy! Glad to help. I just prefer to not play with a plugin. With this setup and my current setup, I can monitor everything that’s coming out of the helix in real time, and I don’t need to worry about latency of any type. While currently, I am not running into the Apollo, I’m running into an audio interface with my helix rack and again I don’t need to worry about any latency, and I can keep my block size bag and simultaneously compose and mix my track without worrying about latency or any issues like that.

[@timogronroos4642]

Basically you could configure your DAW to use USB port from Helix for Guitar and other stuff connected to Helix...and separate audio interface to add more microphones and other instruments, if needed. I have old Motu UltraLite audio inteface and also Helix Floor and can't decide which to use for sounds from Helix.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Alright...

[@StratsRUs]

You got a cool voice too

[@tonik5646]

Great video - just got my POD GO yesterday :-) I missed the part with the microphone. I like to keep the stereo effect, but then to inputs of my forcusrite 2i4 are blocked and where to put the mic? do I need a mixer then? Or give up the stereo effects when using the mic?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

That’s all up to you my friend. Are you recording guitars and vocals at the same time? If not... just plug and unplug if you want stereo fx. Or get an interface with more inputs.

[@ArtificialJetleg]

hey nice vid. I read something about having hot signal or something that damages your equipment? For example, first I used helix as my user interface. From my helix, i used XLRs directly to my monitors. No problem, but there came a point where I just wanted to heard my projects without having to turn on my helix in order to hear the sound from the monitors. I wanted to use my focusrite 2i4 and send 2 balanced outputs into my monitors in addition to the ones that are already there from the helix.... someone told me that I can damage my equipment if I do something like that.. So if I run XLRs out of my Helix into my focusrite 2i4 XLR inputs, and from my focusrite 2i4 balanced output into my monitors' XLRs, I won't damage equipments? Thank you!

[@lodougherty]

If you are only recording the L mono channel, do you have it hooked up in stereo so you are just hearing a stereo effect while playing/recording?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Tom Weaver that is correct

[@27dgonzalezzz]

Your example is a complete track by the end, correct? Recorded in stereo panned right, then in stereo again but to the left. The “L mono only” comment threw me off

[@TheDjma1]

Are the Beyerdynamic 990 better than the 770 in your opinion? And what about open vs closed? Thanks a lot your vids are really helpful man!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

They have a different sound. I wouldn’t say either is better than the other at all. They just have different sound profiles and I like monitoring and checking things that sound different. I would recommend either of them though

[@TheDjma1]

Thanks I appreciate it.

[@kimkelvin]

i use a zoom g3xn > behringer 404hd :)

[@paulogomes9729]

Hello man, very nice job. Can you please make a tutorial on how to connect superior drummer 3 to kontack(ggd) to get Tha super sound on drums. Thanks

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Great Idea my friend

[@dethsyndrome]

Im really digging your signal path....lol.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Thanks man!

[@-LSTR-]

I can't find any video's about combining the HX stomp with a mixer in a home studio setup. I'd love to know more about that. Im looking for a solution to not always have the HX stomp always on to have sound on my PC. Or a way to not switch my monitor cables back and forth between the HX stomp and my interface. Would a mixer be the answer to my 'problems'?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Yo man, I run my stomp into a $80-100 interface. This way, you don’t have to rely on it at all. As a matter of fact, I run my full Helix into my larger Presonus interface on my main rig. I go over this in a bunch of videos.

[@landon.cunningham]

So you can't run Helix native with the Apollo DSP to get good response? Did this change since 4 years ago?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

No. You can only run Line 6 Helix Native on a Universal Audio Apollo. You can’t run anything other than Universal Audio plugins on Apollo DSP devices.

[@landon.cunningham]

@@NickHillMakesMusic what about Luna - can you load Native there and get any benefit?

[@MattiaZoppetti]

So if your audio interface only has 2 inputs (just like yours, the Motu M4, the Audient Id24 etc.) you run out of audio interface inputs and if you want to record other instruments/mics, your only option is to have an audio interface with more inputs. Am I right?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Sounds like you answered your own question my friend

[@rubenbarbosa4635]

Are those some JBLs Monitors?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

They are indeed

[@ViewFromBelow]

Awesome video!! 🤘🏻 quick question: for rhythm guitars do you always record them in mono? Or do you record stereo? Either way I’m assuming they’d be panned but I wasn’t sure whether or not the initial recording being in mono or stereo makes a difference

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Cheers man. Glad you’re here. It’d say 99% of the time I record mono. I’ll rarely record it in stereo unless I want to capture stereo effects from the Helix.

[@jeffersonmanayao9038]

Can you still edit or add tone on to the recorded track?

[@salvodazes]

Hi Nick, thank you for the video. I have an Audiobox iOne, which only has one instrument input, would I be connecting the HX Stomp L/Mono output to this input? And if so, does that mean I would have to switch to using HX Stomp as audio interface if I wanted to record stereo effects as stereo into my DAW? Thank you.

[@brvlng2163]

So when using the hardware with helix edit, what you record on the track is not tweakable afterward? Have you used Native? It would be an interesting comparison between the hardware and software tones with identical settings

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

That is correct. I record as if it’s an amp and can mic’d up. I have used native and used the same tones from my helix rack and they are identical. Just drag and drop the patch and the same IR.

[@brvlng2163]

@@NickHillMakesMusic you just prefer that route of recording? I had a pod hd pro long ago, and it drove me nuts that I couldnt tweak a good take. I like the convenience of a DI recording with native, it's like cheating.

[@jordanmyers2662]

Is there any difference using xlr out of my helix into the front of my scarlett 2i2 where i would plug an instrument into the front ? Is it something to do with stereo ?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Do audible difference

[@BagusWibisono]

Hi sir.. Hx stomp is great sounding for live? Even huge gigs? Or maybe any other should I need for making HX Stomp more be powerful? Cause, kemper it’s too expensive for me. Tell me something🙏🏻

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

What do you mean “more powerful?”

[@thackerynewtonmusic5403]

Hey Nick, love your videos. I just picked up the HX stomp for the main use of recording. I ran into some issues. I often record a lot of guitar parts in my music. When using the USB 5/6 it will put the whatever tone I am using currently on all of the tracks, which makes sense because that is how it is being routed. Is there anyway to work around that so I can have multiple tones? Also, the method you are doing in the video, will that work for the stomp, if so will I need 1/4 to XLR or just instrument cables? Thank you!

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Hey man, so You'd need to have something like a full size Helix (Floor, Floor LT, Rack) in which you could run TWO rigs inside your helix and then send them out different outputs. Alternatively, you could send out the DI and record one rig from your stomp and the DI at the same time, and then go back and reamp that DI or use Helix Native. As for using the stomp how I do in this video, you can simply use 1/4" cables. Best of luck!

[@thackerynewtonmusic5403]

@@NickHillMakesMusic so maybe I am not understanding haha. So when I was recording the other day with DI and everything Yhe stomp would only let me have one sound on the reamping. I should probably just get helix native haha

[@bryanmcleish7311]

what's the benefits of connecting to right and left xlr into the interface, is that mainly for stereo tracking or?? I've just been using the left/mono xlr into my interface

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Pretty much. You got it. Sounds like you already knew the answer to your question. 99% of the time, I’m only recording the left/mono single anyhow

[@Simon-9986]

So if I’m using the Helix Floor as my interface, then I just connect to laptop by the usb connector? I don’t have to use the XLR outs? Sorry, absolute novice 😩

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Yep, if you’re using it as an interface, use that handy USB cable

[@Yahoomediaclub]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoyed the Video...Whats your take on Kemper? Vs Helix 👍

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Thanks man and thank you for watching. I have no opinion on the Kemper seeing as I have zero experience with it. It wouldn’t be fair to make any judgements on it. Cheers

[@Yahoomediaclub]

Enjoyed your music on spotify also..⚡☠️✨

[@Denis-ms8fk]

Thanks for your video ! Very well explained. I am very interested to purchase the Helix Rack to put in my home studio. I still used logic pro 9.1.5 in 32 bit under macosx ! yes i didn't update my system cause i have al ot of plugins from Universal audio (UAD2 cards et UAD1 cards with expansion box) and Waves ! So i refused to upgrade my system cause it will give a lot of troubles with all my plugins and because i am really satisfied about my setup. I hope you can give my some feedback ! Does the software from the Helix Control works with logic pro 9 (specially the connection USB cause i am under USB2 type) ! Thanks for your reply and help.

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Hey man, I’ve only ever used Logic Pro x. I can’t speak to using it with v9 or at 32 bit for that matter

[@Ihavecommonsense1]

I have it hooked up exactly like you do, same equipment and DAW, I'm having level problems, I have to turn the volume all the way up on my Apollo for the headphones and the monitors , do you have similar issues?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I do not. I also don’t use this setup anymore. Check the gain of the channels you have the Helix plugged into. Other than that, it’s hard for me to be helpful. Apologies

[@agoulermas]

I was just thinking... Is there a way to connect the guitar to an "instrument input" on a high quality sound card interface in order to capture the DI signal from the soundcard, and root the guitar signal from the sound card to an output jack towards Helix as input signal for zero latency monitoring?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

You can capture a DI with the HX stomp and the helix products AND monitor through the device.

[@stuhrjames]

Based on that setup, why do you use the Helix Rack instead of Helix Native?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I don’t like playing through plugins. With this setup, I don’t need to worry about latency at all. I can have my block size all the way up and mix while I go. It’s the same sort of workflow if you were recording an amp/cab setup in a studio. Cheers my dude

[@88BadDog]

even i know alot... this video enlight me, to do some compose something inside my head. thank you😎😏🥳

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Happy to hear that!

[@paulmyfinger]

Hi Nick, when i do this, i cant hear anything unless the input is set to line and its too hot even with the input level dial in console is all the way down, Any idea why that might be, PAD makes no difference as its not available when LINE is enabled.....when its on MIC i get nothing?

[@ral1020]

Do you set your Helix Global output XLR to “Line” or “Mic”.. thanks

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Mic when I had this setup, because I was running into Mic preamps. Cheers!

[@bentaylor8589]

would you record an album with solely the helix?

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Everything I have on Spotify/iTunes and Bandcamp under my name, Nick Hill as well as under the name, The Partisan Component has all been Helix! Absolutely!

[@bentaylor8589]

@@NickHillMakesMusic Cool man, thanks for the reply. Also, have you done any amp stacking with the Helix? I've heard stacking with amp sims can be messier than with analog.

[@Vespa123]

yo! can i use a split cable (2 trs to 1 xlr) from the L and R outputs of the HX effects into one of the ins on a focusrite 2i2 or does it have to go into the both ins on the interface? thanks in advance!

[@Nicolae8607]

Hi,thank you for the video..it helps me a lot,but I don't understand what I do wrong with me Pod go..volume is at max and amp chn in Pod go is max and guitar vol is at max..I use Studio one and the signal is very weak when I play guitar..can u pls tell me what I am doing wrong? Is an audio interface will solve the problem if I connect pod go to audio interface..I am new and I don't understand..thank yoh

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

If you’re using the pod go as your interface, the main volume knob just controls what you hear coming out of the headphones or the monitors. Control the output with the output block or with the channel volume in the amp block

[@Nicolae8607]

@@NickHillMakesMusic output block is like the amp?

[@withamindwideopen5403]

I don’t get any sound when I hook my HX stomp into my Apollo twin. Is it the type of cable I’m using??

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

I have no idea man. I would send the L and R outputs to the rear inputs. Make sure the volume is up on the Stomp and then check your input gain on the Apollo