Is the Line 6 Helix Still Relevant in 2025?

Gigging Preset HX Stomp XL/Helix
stevesterlacci...
Check out my Sweetwater landing page for all the gear used in my studio
sweetwater.sjv...
Shop Line 6 at Zzounds
www.zzounds.co...
Add "The Silent Stage" podcast here -
thesilentstage...
Join this channel to get access to perks:
/ @stevesterlacci
Tip Jar - paypal.me/stev...

[@JimmyGallowayGuitar]

I think Helix was so far ahead of their time in the hardware, that they basically made it future proof- or 'decade' proof at least. I still love playing mine. It literally changed the way I make music. I am still inspired, supremely comfortable with it, can tweak something quickly, and I am not even using it near the full function or capability. It is a little 'large' but considering it replaces a full analog board, switching system, direct boxes, routing matrix..... I'm really happy with it, all these years later. I have to get a shirt like yours man! lol

[@100proofsaint]

The helix kicks ass. I bought one last year and I was hesitant because I thought for sure a helix 2 was just around the corner. But I regret nothing.

[@SteveSterlacci]

I could use just a Helix and live happily ever after if I had no access to anything else

[@billschriever]

Well stated! And to Steve’s comment = Me too!!

[@paisamusicful]

I finally paid off the IRS (after ten years) and was able to buy my Helix last year in August and I was blown away! This thing sounds so good and there's so many ways to create your sound. No regrets!

[@abelinolopez1957]

It is around the corner, idk which corner though 😂😂. Jk

[@humphreyb6813]

Just ordered a Helix LT because of your experience with the unit. And learned from your Silent Stage Podcast that somehow to my surprise Vernon Reid uses one. So why not me!

[@SteveSterlacci]

Thats awesome to hear! Thanks so much. Make it sing🫡

[@humphreyb6813]

@ and eventually I’ll add the ToneX one. What a great suggestion to extent my new rig an extra 10 years or so?!

[@dvscool]

I can't actually believe how good the helix STILL is. I've used it for my main rig for 5 years. Never had an issue. Can easily get the tones I'm after, always. Its still very relevant, which is an impressive accomplishment. I'll be using my Helix for many years to come.

[@darrenlivy]

The Helix floor is still my Number one gigging and recording unit. I have an HX Stomp as backup and sometimes use the Tonex One with it to save on some DSP. I think the Helix is still one of the greatest units today for its sounds and ease of use. It will take something truly special to make me change that's in a similar price range. I looked at Fractal but I was put off with how complicated it seems to use.

[@josephstupack]

Agreed. Why do we still use Amps, guitars, and gear from as far back as the 50’s and 60’s (or later)? Well… if it works for you and you like the sound and what you’re getting out of it. Absolutely it’s relevant 😀. Love what you do Steve and love your vids!

[@SteveSterlacci]

My '64 bassman had 0 updates since it was made🤣😅 you're spot on. Thanks for the kind words

[@AlofD]

Exactly this! I don't have a helix, but I have the original headrush pedalboard and people moaned and moaned about the lack of new amps. But we were given loads! And I still use the amps that the original firmware had. Good gear is timeless.

[@zwerko]

I think it's the fear of missing out - as in, software advancements can go only as far as the hardware is capable, and just as you won't be able to run the latest games on computers from yesteryear, people think you won't be able to run the latest advancements in sound processing (esp AI enhancements and such) with an 'old Helix'. And they are somewhat correct - if you're happy with the capabilities and performance already present, I don't see what's the problem? Then again, I actually prefer older games as well, so I don't get a point of getting the latest & greatest GPU either...

[@AlofD]

​@@zwerko Absolutely! And as for games, the story telling was supreme in older games. (Also In Skyrim)

[@StratsRUs]

You are right.Helix is a beautiful design.It's still very welcoming.I just got the Native version now and hadn't realised the great deal they offered hardware owners too !.

[@ssiowi]

Truer words Steve; 10,000% with you. Happily all-Helix from 2017 to infinity and beyond. The Line 6 team have achieved "Ableton Live" status. Live and Helix, now for me one workflow, have forever status for me. Helix II and Yamaha releasing a Pacifica Variax will only sweeten this the greatest musical dessert I've ever tucked into! Customer for life just like with Taylor and my forever acoustic--the 314CE. Thanks for this post Steve!

[@TC_Hero7]

I started with the Line 6 valve mk2, later picked up a helix and have been so impressed with them. Its not that other stuff isnt awesome but i just have not needed it. Line 6 has continued to improve and absolutely bless their customers.

[@zzupanthemusicman]

i feel the same way with the PodGo. I love it and I use the expression pedal with another expression added to it. I just wish the transpose was better like the Quad so I didn't need a digitech drop.

[@oliviervr4055]

The best purchase I've ever made and don't resold! I'm patiently waiting the new Line 6 flagship, because I have still a lot of time with my Helix before buying new digital gear!

[@GearStuffandThings]

I just started using my HXstomp again for a desktop option when demoing. Mostly because putting the quad which is on a full board on my desk was annoying. I very quickly fell back in love with Helix and the Stomp. Sounds better than ever.

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

Still love my HELIX (Floor) for my COVERS ! I'm glad that you made this Vid to let others know REALLY How powerful it is Thank You, George Amodei

[@TechyTimM]

Completely agree. I play them all for work, but keep going back to Helix for my personal playing and gigging. My biggest hurdle is keeping track of my patches with the IRs I use for each. My computer library has grown so much over the years! First world prob for sure. I need one of those muscular man "Grandpa Helix" shirts!

[@tommydillman2780]

Love my helix. I’ve had it for about two years. Always getting compliments on my tone. Don’t need them to add anything else really. I believe more signal processing would just muddy things up. And I don’t need to capture or Bluetooth or any of that stuff. On any given Sunday, we play about five songs, and I usually use three different amplifiers at least. Absolutely brilliant piece of gear.

[@mscalabrino238]

This video answers so many of my questions!

[@SteveSterlacci]

Glad to help!

[@mundojuillerat]

“ What’s there not to like?” Spot on and great points Steve. Go Line 6!

[@steveandrushko75]

I got my Helix 11 months ago and will never regret it there is not anything out there that I want glad to hear how you feel about the Helix

[@Fretburner1]

Well said Steve! 100% with you on this. 👍🏼

[@AlanRigdon]

I’m usually late buying any new gear including the Helix. I got mine in 2023. I still love it and I’ll be using it until it bites the dust.

[@TheMusicalSchizo]

I've been an evangelist for Line 6 stuff since 1999, but as much as I've found stuff useful to me and professional-sounding forever because I knew how to use them that way, the Helix is really where it became absolutely undeniable to the people I was talking to about it. The interface is truly one of the best of all time in that style, IMO. I never touched a manual, and it was nothing like the previous interfaces, but it was so stupidly easy to use that I was up and running with great sound from scratch pretty much immediately. Thanks for the video, Steve, and keep up the amazing work!

[@mrfivethirteen8919]

It's the same year I started to travel with the Line 6 train. POD, POD 2.0 + Floorboard with volume and wah pedal, POD XTLive, HD500, HD500X, DT50 212, Helix Floor. BUT I returned to amp and cab (I even bought an expensive cab.), and use the Helix predominately for recording purposes of bass tracks. Though I changed my habit slightly, Line 6 remains outstanding with their updates for free! Kudos!

[@BaceBeat]

Bought my HX stomp in 2025. So happy with it

[@SteveSterlacci]

I'll have one on a board forever I think

[@Bigjunk9999]

Helix Native is the best selling point for the Line 6 ecosystem. Using is for recording is life-changing and the fact that the presets transfer is what keeps my on this platform. I do understand how some could use more hardware DSP since we all have different needs.

[@danc3746]

Absolutely, I still use the Helix all the time when playing live. And I love the way it pairs up with the new Fender 1x12 FR.

[@ArunKamathMusic]

I bought my Helix (off Jonny Lee, funnily enough!) a few years ago. It’s now the absolute centre of my gigging rig. I love its versatility; I use it in 4 cable method sometimes, direct to FOH others, and in combination sometimes too. I’ve never felt the need to change or “upgrade” to another unit just because it’s newer. The Helix does everything I could possibly want and more! Definitely still relevant in 2025, and beyond. I have you, Jason Sadites and Jonny to thank for helping me with setting it up!

[@deanbibb3680]

I’ve noticed in the process of making duplicate presets on my HX Stomp XL for what I have on my Helix Floor that I’m creating solid and sometimes better tones with less blocks. Now I feel like I need to rebuild my Floor presets with this approach.

[@ginocopparoni7324]

I have a Helix LT and a pedalboard with an HX Stomp. I've been using the pedalboard for a while but I decided to make some changes so I removed all the cables. Yesterday I played again on the Helix and I was amazed... That thing sounds good!!! 😁 I'm playing it this Sunday!

[@peterjhamm]

I think the oversampling was way subtler than others do, tbh. In the house and in the mix I can't hear the difference, and never bothered doing an A/B test. GREAT rundown, sir, as always!

[@MyEFlow]

I totally agree on your assesment of how user friendly this unitt is. I combine it with my James Tyller Variax and can access so many guitars and amp combined that I need at any given moment.

[@j-venom616]

I bought my Helix a year ago as for my 41th. birthday present for myself - before that I was all pedalboard, tube amp and cabinet or two guy. Wish I bought my Helix 5-7 years earlier, I love that board!

[@robmuzick]

User Interface and Tone Shaping are so easy to use!

[@TheBbtlegit]

Exactly

[@SteveSterlacci]

Yes!

[@blakeoms]

Line 6 pod go is my favorite

[@SteveSterlacci]

Great choice

[@AnthonyBullock1968]

Yep ! The Helix was - and still is the best gear purchase I ever made. For a long time I've had a Kemper in an FX loop of the Helix (Pete Thorn had this as his live rig at one point) - so the use case of putting any profiler into the Helix to expand it - is a great one.

[@backyardbbqusa]

I totally agree the Helix Floor is still relevant. Bought mine in 2018 and it works as good or better than day one with all the updates Line 6 pushes out.

[@TRWilley]

I started using the full sized Tonex Pedal in conjunction with my Helix floor and that has breathed new life into the experience, freeing up DSP for more effects while utilizing MIDI to access multiple Amp/Tone Models within a single preset via Command Center/Snapshots.

[@Bridging_the_Political_Divide]

Isn't it ironic....we kinda dog the big units for being big, but once on the stage, we love the added size and foot switches. Everything in life is a compromise right? Great segment! 👍

[@TVoltG]

Yes it is. Badass and truly a perfect setup. What sold me to use it as my preamp to a power amp into my real cabs was Scott Holiday of Rival Sons.. And I have noticed that with newer updates, amps sounds are incredible. And I have noticed that older amps do sound better.

[@samerbata]

Great video. I keep thinking about getting something different, once I see/hear a product video, I stop. HxFx & Helix Stomp have been a game changer for me in terms of effects

[@samerbata]

And amp modelling. Am not into captures - I don't want a capture of a particular tone, I'd rather have an amp SIM that can be dialled in. Helix also killed it with Sag, Ripple, bias and bias X controls. I don't think I have those anywhere on other devices. Also L6 basically doesn't charge you for any extras on updates. That was a poor move by Kemper. Or create new tech/engine that incorporated other tech that's available and charge you for using the plugin tech when you need more sounds. L6 have been great x

[@milostrikic1003]

Thanks Steve for your advice, I have bought used Helix Floor... And it's great!!! Huge change from POD Go

[@antipsychosoup6709]

I use the Stomp XL and it’s the most inspiring piece of gear I’ve ever owned. It’s also literally saved me thousands of dollars I likely would have otherwise spent on pedals and amps in search of the tones that now are accessible with a few presses of the buttons. Combine that with the free firmware updates, and it’s by far the best value I’ve ever gotten out of a piece of gear as well. I couldn’t be happier with it, I still get excited to spend time experimenting with it, and I plan to use it until I die. Thank you, Line 6.

[@williamthomas3515]

I bought the Headrush Prime and used at my church but just did match the guys with the Helix. I bought the Helix and wow. The sound is fantastic. Selling my Headrush now.

[@lasqueti21]

❤ thank you for the video, totally agree!!!

[@DoctorMcFarlandStudios]

Helix is still very powerful and more than enough for the vast majority of players.

[@TheBbtlegit]

Totally agree

[@majesticpbjcat7707]

Hell, even the slow minority of players ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@EvacTheGreat]

What I love about helix is the repairability and durability. If something breaks the parts are easy to replace and that’s if it breaks lol. These things are tanks.

[@juanvaldez5422]

I am a Helix LT owner . Have been since about year after it came out … the coolest thing about Helix is when you use it as a ‘control station ‘ a’la a (DNA) Helix that connects your gear thus its name . The routing you can do is amazing. I still dont necessarily prefer the models but i run it 4cm with a PRS MT and it ALSO feeds my kemper effects … and i just have the LT ! You get 2 more (4 total) effects send/returns with the big Helix … you can do wild stuff and ppl have barely scratched surface

[@juanvaldez5422]

Note: i just realized i havent updated the firm ware in over a year … the models are probably totally different now

[@MasterPhillyD]

I bought my helix lt in September 2024 and absolutely love it.

[@Ianos-Music]

The Helix is a beast. It’s big but it gives you everything you would ever need. I’ve used it direct, through a Marshall, or both - it handles everything. I was blown away by the latest update. The Bogner model is exceptional! Also, the Helix still has the best 2203, which for me as a Marshall guy is important for a fly-rig. The Helix does not seem old to me at all. Kudos to the team over there! 👍🏻

[@TheBbtlegit]

I still say the Helix can go toe to toe with anything out there new right now.

[@JoeAmaral427]

I like the tips you do. What I'd like is a tip on how to put assign a different preset to a footswitch while in a current preset.

[@BlueSkiesBlackDeath]

For the price point, I LOVE my new Mooer GC1000Li. And like you I have ALL the modelers. I love the I can just charge it. I've only had about an hour with it, but I connect my phone via bluetooth to it, so I can play along with songs through a real cab etc. That being said, for the price point, etc, I'm not sure if you would ever gig with it. Mine crashed within the first 10 minutes lol. BUT for home use, I love it. Even their S1 and P2. They are so simple it just got me playing again for fun! Everyone says their customer service sucks, which it probably does, but I haven't had to use it yet.

[@hiramgonzalez1367]

Two weeks ago I bought a Helix LT, I still don’t know how to use it, I need to put the time in order to get the most out of it. I’ll be checking your videos to learn more about it. Thank you for sharing your expertise.

[@newstuff1107]

Great video Steve. The subject is so overdone, but man, having the Line 6 guy explaining that we mortals don’t know, very good job.

[@dconleygtr]

Agreed. I too, have been using a Helix Floor as may main gigging rig since 2017. With the later updates my presets simplified a bit as the 2203 amp sounds awesome, and cleans up great with via the low input. I stopped using 3rd party IR's after the cab update came out.

[@RobJohnsonGuitar]

Love The HELIX , Love your Channel Steve

[@NickHillMakesMusic]

Interesting video and perspective.

[@KennethDollar]

The only time I have ever hit the DSP wall on the Helix Floor is when I built a preset with a poly capo, two amp models, reverb, delay, chorus, flanger, loop send, IR, and a high-pass/low-pass filter.

[@dreadnotpop]

I bought a fractal first but sold it to get a helix. I love my helix even though I’ve tried other products since then. I gig regularly with the Helix products. And I’m still finding new ways to use it.

[@denniscoverband4369]

Any old piece of gear is relevant as long as it gets you your tone.

[@Willjrockstar]

Steve I agree with you 1001%. Hope I can find time to comment further.

[@briancassidy7510]

Helix is the bomb. Pedal mode is great. i’ve watched so many videos on how to use the helix in my mind gets blown all the time. But I’m just as happy to have a fender model used to overdrive on the amp model itself and use snapshots put a game on it in the cool hall, reverb or something and play all day on just that also, I love the Wawa pedal and all the choices and control you have over that anyway I watched videos concerning other modelers and I guess if I had my way I would get them all just for fun. But the thing about it I don’t think they really sound that much better if they do at all, I think it would be fun to be part of a community where you can get peoples captured amps and play it through your tone X one or tone X or whatever you have, but I would do like you say put it in the one of the effects loops of helix and how much fun could we have with that i’ve even thought of taking my HX stop and put in the effects loop of helix would that be silly could be some cool stuff you could come up with but I just like the basic old sounds and I get great tone with Felix. I learned a few tricks I like to put my microphones away from the speaker so that it picks up sort of that natural room sound and then it sounds like to me in my home more like an amp in the room so just a tip for all those amp in the room crybabies lol just joking if I could afford all the greatest stamps in the world then I would probably get them that I tell you that helix is just so much more fun and when I bought helix, it said you don’t have to give up your your gear for helix so I always thought well if I don’t like the models I’ll I’ll use the real amp with the lake and have all those effects and control You just can’t beat it.

[@goldbug1974]

I couldn’t agree more on the touch screen vs knobs. The helix feels and controls as easy as my analog pedals and with the routing options it can’t be beat

[@JeanLeite-d1e]

Having bought the Helix several years ago, I've yet to see any other modelers that really offer anything worthwhile to invest or buy in that is significantly better to be honest. The free upgrades make it absolutely long-term worthy still.

[@jenaviveh6973]

Pocket whiskey!! Lol, I’m glad you mentioned the PodGo, such an incredibly efficient little unit! And Line 6 is keeping it updated, for free, just like the Helix. I’m following the Tone X…wanting to understand what new capabilities it has…but… I am all about the gif experience. When you are putting on a live show, the needs are different.

[@BeachJazzMusic]

I love my Helix and I also have an Axe-Fx III. The Helix was my first modeler thanks to Sweetwater's easy payment plan. They keep updating it and every time they do it sounds better. I think a lot has to do with the algorithms more so than the DSP power unless your requirements are ridiculously high.I had a Quad Cortex and while it had some other stuff that I really liked I thought the effects were really lacking compared to the Helix.

[@ThePlanarchist]

Fascinating....but not surprising. I've certainly been very happy with the improvements....all I'd like is some more cpu in a smaller unit, the sounds themselves are great.

[@cpiz88]

I bought my first Helix Rack in 2016 then soon after a bought another and then eventually a Stomp and just got an HX Effects. Because they are easy to use without a computer I find myself being more creative with my sounds.

[@paulmatthewphoto1960]

Hx Stomp is one of my favorite guitar purchases ever. Probably wont leave my board until an hx stomp 2 comes out

[@picksalot1]

I've had an HX Stomp for over 4 years, and it's amazing how good and versatile it is. I prefer adjusting settings on the unit itself instead of in HX Edit, though I started the other way around. There is something positive to be said about the tactical experience of turning physical knobs. Regarding touchscreens, they should be able to sidestep the problem of physical knobs wearing out. This is something I experienced on a Boss GT6 unit, and what prompted me to get an HX Stomp. About 6 months ago, the main Encoder Dial on the Stomp started to fail - Not stopping at the desired detent. Regarding future-proofing Line 6 Helix Modelers, adding NAM Profile "loading" would be a welcome feature.

[@777james777]

Even if you don’t like the amps, (which are great) being able to use the effects loop to insert your own amp is incredible. I use the Friedman IRX and IRD in the effects loop as my amp and they sound great and use the Helix for cleans and effects. I don’t see any reason to use anything else other than out of curiosity. It’s all good these days I think gear becoming outdated is going to be outdated.

[@jjasonsingleton]

I agree with you Steve, they are gig masters and so not out of date! I bought my first Helix in 2018 and it was used, I think it was v2.50 at the time. Lets jump to 2023. I broke the display a few days before a gig that I was going to play bass for and had to drag my GK and cabinets., bummer. I went and bought another used one the next week to replace it so I now have 2 but here is the real story. I contacted Line 6 for a replacement display and they said send it in and gave me an RMA. I thought the would contact me with a cost but a couple of weeks later after I had sent it in it was back to me fixed and I didn't pay a dime. That is customer service! BTW I have a clear 1/4" plexiglass cover over both units displays so if I've had a couple too many and knock my stand over it wont happen again.

[@ChrisMartinsMusician]

I've tried pretty much everything else and I always come back to Helix Native for my studio needs, or my tube amps into a Two Notes Captor and then I use the Helix Native FX after that in the chain... If I was going to tour again, and it's in the cards for next year, I'd bring a Stomp XL and a DL4mkII ( fantastic unit in its own right ).

[@dougfa3515]

It's still a great piece of gear!

[@nigeldaddyo]

100%. I learned quickly years ago, via my H90 app that touchscreen editing is overrated. Give me a physical knob any day. Combined w/the touch capacitance foot switches and joystick, I can zip around pretty fast. My LT is just so flexible. I’m in a Rush tribute band and it gives me 3 different setups in case any one scenario was to present a problem: A) Helix used for effects only, and to control my Suhr PT15 IR. If something were to go wonky with my amp, I can immediately go to: B) Helix stand-alone, direct, doing EVERYTHING. Or: C) Helix w/speaker modeling off, going into FX return of an amplifier All 3 of these setups sound great BTW I have presets for every song, unique to each of the setups above, and all 3 scenarios sound great. It’s a good feeling to know I’ve a plan B and C should plan A fail. Of course, if Helix itself fails, then I’m in trouble which is why I’m hoping “Helix 2” comes out soon so I can buy a brand new backup for cheap! LOL For now I’ve a friend who has a LT as well, so I’ll borrow his on gig nights for now. Speaking of Helix 2…or whatever they decide to call it, I’m in no hurry. Helix delivers everything for my uses and I really want for nothing with it. I know my way around it more than any high-tech piece of gear I’ve ever owned, and that’s huge. Why would I want to learn a new language when I’m already fluent in Helix? It’d have to be extraordinarily special.

[@JeanLeite-d1e]

In the same camp. I'm not all that invested in the touch screen aspect, car radio yes, guitar no.

[@teerexness]

I still adore my Helix! I just wish Apple and/or Line 6 would fix the USB audio noise & fliutter that is present now when playing KZbin and iTunes sound through the Helix. Otherwise, it's absolute perfection!

[@jimluttrell5794]

Great video Mr. Sterlacci! Regarding the topic of touch screens. I use my Helix for playing live, so I NEED a screen protector to prevent damage to the screen on a live stage. I have had mic stands fall and hit my screen on two occasions which would have destroyed the screen both times if not for the screen protector (thanks Chad Boston and Gearbyceba!). This greatly diminishes the value of a touch screen on a modelling product for me. I admit that if you are a home-use person, or a studio musician that uses your modeler, a touch screen would be a great quality of life addition. But if you play live, or have aspirations of playing live, I think an exposed touchscreen in a sometimes chaotic environment of a live-stage is a risk. Most modelers are built with a sufficiently rugged chassis and good footswitches that can take repeated abuse, however, the screen on the unit is the perpetual "weak-spot" of most all units. I honestly think everyone should get a screen protector to safeguard their product (even a home-user) which greatly diminishes the ability to use a touch screen if a Unit is made with one.

[@justinmakesrepairs4535]

I’ve been using my Helix for years now and it has been an amazing piece of equipment to own, the original was great and some of the updates that have come out over the years are just mind blowing. One of the best investments I’ve made in guitar gear in my opinion.

[@southerncross936]

Ill be honest! Ive had almost every modeler! Qc,ge1000,tonex,fm3,kemper,valeton. I kept coming back to the hxstomp! It was a close decision between fm3 and the hx stomp! The fm3 was great! But its down to the u.i for me! It also sounds the best for what i do! I pair mine with a cab m+ and use the reverb and cabs off of that! Sounds the best to my ears!

[@Mark_B585]

I think about affects the same way I think about guitars and amps it has nothing to do with the age of it or when it came out. It's so weird that people have this thought process I really don't understand it. Great video man. I really love how you think about things from a effectiveness point of view

[@martiboucat]

I bought a Stomp during 2020s black friday and i've used it more than any other gear i own, including guitars. I've played this thing everyday last 5 years. I've bought a fuzz, 3 overdrives, an almost top tier delay to go with it and a Chase Bliss Mood mkII. The only thing the Stomp can't fully replicate is the Mood functionality. I'll eventually get a full size helix. I'm not sure if it will be a second hand Helix LT for 600-700 euros, a second hand helix floor for 1000 or a black friday new device but i can assure you that, after playing with Helix Native (plugin that costed me only 50€), i've got no interest in anything else. I like the company, i like what they do with their products and i like how they treat costumers. And sounds absolutely phenomenal.

[@martiboucat]

Great rambling! Best from Barcelona!

[@hartlee1160]

Thabk you line6 for being pro-sounding but also accessible to struggling guitarists. Weve seen the tests. Only one company seem to keep up with the standard line6 set. Especially when we're talking amp modeling. Some companies sound as good as when helix came out but don't have one amp that sounds as good as the stuff after the first updates.

[@JasonPelzel]

Had it since preorder.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Hows it held up?!

[@JasonPelzel]

@ I did have to do the foot switch clean about a couple months ago as a couple of the most used ones had become unresponsive. But like new since doing it.

[@WilborArthur]

I bought helix Lt last year.. It has a great sound and I could buy a preste very low cost also because the week after I bought I had to play.. everybody came congratulated me because of the great sound.. a guy from Europe sent me a Tremonti preset for free… just for that for me it’s great! it has more things that I can ever use… for me is great..

[@Alex_Echo]

4:57 - "...we make sure the presets don't change when updating the firmware..." So much to learn for the guys from Fractal...

[@rocknroling6869]

I love the HX Stomp. I love tube amps, but having all of my reverbs delays and modulation effects all in one box. I still use analog drive pedals, but it makes my rig dead quiet and crazy simple to use.

[@SonicDriveStudio]

Good video! Regarding the DSP limit: I usually use 3 blocks max, so I'm good 😅

[@Jimmy4Thumbs]

It's my fault there is not a new Helix model. I admit it. All I would have to do is buy the current model, and a new model will hit the market! I apologize to all of you waiting on the new model. I just need to pysch myself up for taking the bullet for the team!

[@jwate]

The foot pedal editor is solid.

[@michaelcraig3624]

Just a heads up, you can stream music from your phone into your helix. Go in the USB six pin and use your global settings for the line in volume to balance it against whatever you are jamming to.

[@bobbys4327]

Where do you download it in the Helix?

[@michaelcraig3624]

@ you don’t download it. You plug a cable into your phone, according to whatever type it takes. From my phone it is a USB-C. I go from USB-C to six pen connector, into the helix. When you go to global settings, the input volume will be there

[@Nation609]

Absoluetly, especially after the Cab updates. It put some of my old IR's out of commission. Even though my main rig is a QC, I will always bring my Helix LT with me as my backup.

[@modelcitizen1977]

HelixLT will be all I ever need.

[@SAFGRAFIX]

Hey Steve, You need to try Hotone Stage II with its new update, with its new tone catch capability? I have used Helix for 7 years, but this little Hotone unit has blown me away. It will hang with the big boys. Love your content. Thanks Scott

[@fancypicker]

I've got gear acquisition syndrome at the moment and have been looking at all the other modelers and capture rigs and finally came to the conclusion that I just don't need anything else. My Helix has it all covered. Does all I need and more for the bands I gig with. I barely scratch the surface of what it can do. Also came to the conclusion that if I absolutely needed something else a Tonex one in the FX loop would be all I need. Looks like I wasn't the only one to come to that conclusion.

[@charlesg.1207]

Love my Helix LT. Does what I need it to do. I also own the other guys. The Helix LT suits my needs even in 2025. You brought up some good points. If there was a new Helix hardware for $2K that had touch screen and capturing I really don't think I would feel the need to purchase it. I would rather spend the 2k on another guitar or amp.

[@ZillianZilch]

I love my Helix. Every now and then I’ll get my old pedalboard out and plug into my Hot Rod Deluxe or my Marshall and every single time I end up straight back to the Helix. It just sounds better, it’s consistent and for just over a grand you get tens of thousands of pounds worth of amps, pedals and more. I think it’s the greatest piece of guitar equipment (other than guitars!) ever invented.

[@michaelb4375]

Okay Steve, you are right, it’s a great piece of kit, where can we buy that T shirt …

[@guitarpunkcovers]

Honestly, the Helix and the whole HX family doesn't need any hardware upgrades IMO, they knocked it out of the park.

[@ByeByeJoe]

Helix is amazing. It does need a Gen2 hardware drop with DSP that allows you to fully utilize every aspect of the pedal without running out of power to do it. It also needs capture tech even though Line 6 is amazing at creating amp tones and updates. I did recently get rid of my Stomp XL, just because it was too big for my needs anymore and went with Tonex One, but I do plan on buying more Helix gear.

[@samueldiker]

I had one for two years, from 2017 to 2019, before selling it. Later, I needed some new effects but didn’t want a big pedalboard, so in 2024, I bought another one to use as a pedalboard with the 4-cable method. But after many tests, I started wondering why I was making things so complicated. Now it's simply Helix -> class D -> 2x12.

[@BillySoundFarm]

I think you should seriously consider qualifying your recommendations of the Tonex One. In theory, you can capture your amps, but in practice only people with a recording studio and a lot of time to overcome a learning curve are going to be able to do it. It's not like Kemper where if you buy the thing you have what you need to capture your amps and it's pretty straightforward. I was going to make a video about that pedal and title it "buy this if you want to be angry all the time", but I decided I don't feel like making negative videos.

[@Willjrockstar]

Ive owned helix since 1.04 ish. a couple before the udpdate when matchless was added. I paid 1200$ for a "returned item" and i have not had a single issue ever. I feel EXTREMELY fortunate to have stayed on this long and been awarded the product that i have now. In the beginning i had my troubles getting good sounds, but nowadays everything just sounds good. I have some tube amps and a tonex. i play my helix exclusively. Probably mostly out of convenience.. I havent heard anyone in my genre getting sounds i cant get with helix, and I can afford to play anything i want to, and if i thought anyone would hear a better version of myself playing fractal, i would just go get it. However im always curious. Greener grass n all. Sometimes things just click. disclaimer. Helix owner 10 years-ish and just now finally getting some sounds from the stock cabs that inspire me (sound good).