Line 6 Helix

The Line 6 Helix, introduced in 2015, represents a significant leap in amp and effects modeling technology. Designed as a flagship product, it was developed over six years and built on Line 6's legacy of digital modeling, which began with their iconic POD series. The Helix features the HX modeling engine, offering unprecedented detail and realism in amp and effects emulation. It included 72 amp models, 37 speaker cabinets, 16 microphone models, and nearly 200 effects at launch, with regular firmware updates adding more options.

Amp Models

Woody Blue (Acoustic 360)

The Acoustic 360 is one of the most iconic bass amplifiers in history, renowned for its innovative design, immense power, and defining role in shaping modern bass tones.

Agua 51 (Aguilar DB 751)

The Aguilar DB 751 is a flagship bass amplifier head renowned for its immense power, tonal flexibility, and modern enhancements to the legacy of its predecessor, the DB 750.

Agua Sledge (Aguilar Tone Hammer)

The Aguilar Tone Hammer is a highly regarded bass amplifier series known for its warm, tube-inspired tones, lightweight design, and versatility.

Ampeg B-15NF (Ampeg B-15NF Portaflex)

The Ampeg B-15NF Portaflex is one of the most iconic and influential bass amplifiers in music history, renowned for its innovative design, warm tube tone, and enduring legacy in studio and live settings.

Ampeg SVT Nrm, Ampeg SVT Brt (Ampeg SVT)

The Ampeg SVT (Super Vacuum Tube) is one of the most iconic bass amplifiers in history, celebrated for its unmatched power, tonal versatility, and enduring legacy in live and studio settings.

Ampeg SVT-4 Pro (Ampeg SVT-4 Pro)

The Ampeg SVT-4 Pro is a flagship bass amplifier head in Ampeg's Pro Series, celebrated for its tonal flexibility, power, and advanced features.

Cartographer (Ben Adrian Cartographer)

The Cartographer is a modern guitar amplifier model that has gained recognition for its unique tonal characteristics and versatility, particularly within the context of digital modeling platforms like Line 6's Helix.

German Xtra Blue, German Xtra Red (Bogner Ecstasy 101B)

The Bogner Ecstasy 101B is a renowned guitar amplifier that has made a significant impact on the music industry, particularly among rock and metal musicians.

German Mahadeva (Bogner Shiva)

The Bogner Shiva is a celebrated guitar amplifier known for its versatility and tonal richness, making it a favorite among musicians across various genres.

German Ubersonic (Bogner Uberschall)

The Bogner Uberschall is a highly acclaimed guitar amplifier known for its powerful sound and versatility, particularly favored in the metal and hard rock genres.

Das Benzin Mega, Das Benzin Lead (Diezel VH4)

The Diezel VH4 is a highly regarded guitar amplifier known for its versatility, high-gain capabilities, and exceptional sound quality.

Divided Duo (Divided By 13 JRT 9/15)

The Divided By 13 JRT 9/15 is a boutique guitar amplifier known for its versatility and rich tonal palette, capturing the essence of classic American and British amplifier designs.

Interstate Zed (Dr. Z Route 66)

The Dr. Z Route 66 is a highly regarded guitar amplifier known for its rich tonal characteristics and versatility, making it a favorite among professional musicians.

Grammatico GSG (Dumble Overdrive Special)

The Dumble Overdrive Special (ODS) is one of the most iconic and sought-after guitar amplifiers in history, celebrated for its unique tone, meticulous craftsmanship, and association with legendary players. Below is a synopsis of its history, popular settings, and notable users.

ANGL Meteor (ENGL Fireball 100)

The ENGL Fireball 100 is a prominent guitar amplifier known for its high-gain capabilities and versatility, particularly favored in the rock and metal genres.

EV Panama Blue, EV Panama Red (EVH 5150)

The EVH 5150 is a prominent guitar amplifier that has become synonymous with the sound of rock and metal, particularly due to its association with legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen.

Tweed Blues Nrm, Tweed Blues Brt, US Dripman Norm (Fender Bassman)

The Fender Bassman is one of the most iconic amplifiers in music history, known for its versatility, tone, and influence on amplifier design. Here's a synopsis of its history, popular settings, and notable players:

US Small Tweed (Fender Champ)

The Fender Champ is a legendary amplifier with a storied history, known for its simplicity, portability, and distinctive tone.

Fullerton Nrm, Fullerton Brt, Fullerton Jump, US Deluxe Nrm, US Deluxe Vib (Fender Deluxe)

The Fender Deluxe is a legendary guitar amplifier with a rich history, renowned for its tonal versatility and enduring popularity among musicians. Here's an overview of its evolution, Popular Settings, and Notable Players:

US Princess (Fender Princeton)

The Fender Princeton is a highly regarded guitar amplifier with a rich history, known for its compact size and warm, versatile tone.

US Super Nrm, US Super Vib (Fender Super)

The Fender Super is a celebrated guitar amplifier with a rich history, known for its warm tones and versatility.

US Double Nrm, US Double Vib (Fender Twin)

The Fender Twin is one of the most iconic guitar amplifiers in music history, known for its powerful sound and versatility.

Placater Clean, Placater Dirty (Friedman BE-100)

The Friedman BE-100 is a highly regarded guitar amplifier known for its exceptional tonal versatility and high-gain capabilities, making it a favorite among rock and metal musicians.

G Cougar 800 (Gallien-Krueger 800RB)

The Gallien-Krueger 800RB is a groundbreaking bass amplifier head that has become a cornerstone of modern bass amplification. Known for its durability, innovative design, and signature 'GK growl,' it remains one of the most iconic bass amps in history.

Stone Age 185 (Gibson EH-185)

The Gibson EH-185 is a historic amplifier, renowned for its innovative design, rich tonal character, and association with early electric guitar pioneers.

Grammatico GSG (Grammatico GSG100)

The Grammatico GSG100 is a boutique guitar amplifier that has garnered attention for its rich tonal characteristics and sophisticated design, inspired by the legendary Dumble Overdrive Special.

GrammaticoLG Nrm, GrammaticoLG Brt, GrammaticoLG Jump (Grammatico LaGrange)

The Grammatico LaGrange is a boutique guitar amplifier inspired by the classic 5E3 Tweed Deluxe circuit, renowned for its rich, organic tone and exceptional craftsmanship.

WhoWatt (Hiwatt DR-103)

The Hiwatt DR-103, also known as the Custom 100, is one of the most revered amplifiers in rock history, celebrated for its exceptional build quality, tonal clarity, and immense power.

Line 6 2204 Mod (Line 6 2204 Mod)

The Line 6 2204 Mod is a popular amplifier model within the Line 6 Helix platform, known for its high-gain capabilities and versatility, particularly in rock and metal genres.

Line 6 Aristocrat (Line 6 Aristocrat)

The Line 6 Aristocrat is a modern guitar amplifier model that has gained recognition for its rich tonal qualities and versatility, particularly in the context of the Line 6 Helix and Catalyst series.

Line 6 Badonk (Line 6 Badonk)

The Line 6 Badonk is a distinctive amplifier model that has garnered attention for its powerful low-end response and versatility, particularly within the Line 6 Helix and POD platforms.

Line 6 Carillon (Line 6 Carillon)

The Line 6 Carillon is a modern guitar amplifier model that has garnered attention for its chimey tones and versatility, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Helix and Catalyst series.

Line 6 Clarity (Line 6 Clarity)

The Line 6 Clarity is a modern guitar amplifier model that has garnered attention for its pristine clean tones and versatility, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Catalyst series.

Line 6 Doom (Line 6 Doom)

The Line 6 Doom is a notable amplifier model within the Line 6 Metallurgy Collection, designed specifically to cater to the heavy and saturated tones favored in genres like doom metal and stoner rock.

Line 6 Elektrik (Line 6 Elektrik)

The Line 6 Elektrik is a modern guitar amplifier model that has gained recognition for its unique tonal characteristics and versatility, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Helix platform.

Line 6 Elmsley (Line 6 Elmsley)

The Line 6 Elmsley is a modern guitar amplifier model that has quickly gained recognition for its unique tonal characteristics and versatility, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Helix modeling platform.

Line 6 Epic (Line 6 Epic)

The Line 6 Epic is a prominent amplifier model that has gained recognition for its high-gain capabilities and versatility, particularly within the Line 6 Helix and other modeling platforms.

Line 6 Fatality (Line 6 Fatality)

The Line 6 Fatality is a high-gain amplifier model that has gained recognition for its aggressive tones and versatility, particularly within the Line 6 Helix modeling platform.

Line 6 Kinetic (Line 6 Kinetic)

The Line 6 Kinetic is a modern guitar amplifier model that has gained recognition for its dynamic tonal capabilities and versatility, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Catalyst series.

Line 6 Litigator (Line 6 Litigator)

The Line 6 Litigator is a distinctive amplifier model that has gained acclaim for its smooth, mid-gain tones and versatility, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Helix platform.

Line 6 Oblivion (Line 6 Oblivion)

The Line 6 Oblivion is a modern guitar amplifier model that has quickly gained recognition for its high-gain capabilities, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Helix and Catalyst series.

Line 6 Ventoux (Line 6 Ventoux)

The Line 6 Ventoux is a modern guitar amplifier model that has gained recognition for its versatility and tonal richness, particularly within the context of the Line 6 Helix modeling platform.

Line 6 Voltage (Line 6 Voltage)

The Line 6 Voltage is a modern guitar amplifier model that has gained recognition for its high-gain capabilities and versatility, particularly in the context of the Line 6 Helix and other modeling platforms.

Brit 2203, Brit 2204, Line 6 2204 Mod (Marshall JCM-800)

The Marshall JCM-800 is a legendary amplifier that has become synonymous with the sound of hard rock and heavy metal since its introduction in the early 1980s.

Brit J45 Nrm, Brit J45 Brt (Marshall JTM-45)

The Marshall JTM-45 is a legendary guitar amplifier that has played a pivotal role in the development of rock music since its introduction.

Brit Plexi Nrm, Brit Plexi Brt, Brit Plexi Jump, Brit Trem Nrm, Brit Trem Btr, Brit Trem Jump (Marshal Plexi)

The Marshall Plexi is one of the most iconic guitar amplifiers in rock history, known for its powerful sound and significant influence on the music scene.

Brit Plexi Nrm, Brit Plexi Brt, Brit Plexi Jump, Brit Trem Nrm, Brit Trem Btr, Brit Trem Jump (Marshall Super Lead)

The Marshall Super Lead, officially known as the Model 1959, is one of the most iconic guitar amplifiers in rock history, renowned for its powerful sound and significant influence on the genre. It is widely known as a Marshall Plexi which comes from the clear plastic faceplate used on early models.

Matchstick Ch1, Matchstick Ch2, Matchstick Jump (Matchless DC30)

The Matchless DC30 is a highly regarded guitar amplifier known for its exceptional tone and versatility, making it a favorite among musicians across various genres.

Cali 400 Ch1, Cali 400 Ch2 (Mesa/Boogie Bass 400+)

The Mesa/Boogie Bass 400+ is a legendary all-tube bass amplifier head, celebrated for its immense power, tonal versatility, and durability.

Cali Rectifire (Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier)

The Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier is an iconic guitar amplifier that has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of rock and metal since its introduction.

Cali Texas Ch1, Cali Texas Ch2 (Mesa/Boogie Lone Star)

The Mesa/Boogie Lone Star is a renowned guitar amplifier celebrated for its versatility and tonal richness, making it a popular choice among musicians across various genres.

Cali Bass (Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine)

The Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine is a high-performance bass amplifier head celebrated for its power, tonal versatility, and advanced features.

Cali IV Rhythm 1, Cali IV Rhythm 2, Cali IV Lead (Mesa/Boogie Mark IV)

The Mesa/Boogie Mark IV is a legendary guitar amplifier that has become a staple in the world of high-gain music, known for its versatility and powerful sound.

Mandarin Bass200 (Orange AD200)

The Orange AD200 is a flagship bass amplifier head celebrated for its simplicity, powerful tone, and versatility across genres.

Mandarin 80 (Orange OR80)

The Orange OR80 is a notable guitar amplifier that has earned a reputation for its powerful sound and distinctive tonal characteristics.

Mandarin Rocker (Orange Rockerverb)

The Orange Rockerverb is a celebrated guitar amplifier known for its powerful sound and versatility, making it a favorite among musicians in various genres.

Brit P75 Nrm, Brit P75 Brt (Park 75)

The Park 75 is a notable guitar amplifier with a rich history, closely associated with the Marshall brand.

Archtype Clean, Archtype Lead (PRS Archon)

The PRS Archon is a powerful guitar amplifier known for its versatility and high-gain capabilities, making it a favorite among modern rock and metal musicians.

Busy One Ch1, Busy One Ch2, Busy One Jump (Pearce BC-1)

The Pearce BC-1 is a notable bass preamp that has gained a reputation for its versatility and unique tonal characteristics, particularly favored by professional musicians.

PV Panama (Peavey 6505)

The Peavey 6505, originally named the Peavey 5150, is a legendary guitar amplifier that has made a significant impact on the rock and metal music scenes since its introduction.

PV Vitriol Clean, PV VitriolCrunch, PV Vitriol Lead (Peavey Invective)

The Peavey Invective is a modern guitar amplifier that has quickly gained recognition for its versatility and high-gain capabilities, particularly in the rock and metal genres.

Revv Gen Purple, Revv Gen Red (Revv Generator 120)

The Revv Generator 120 is a modern guitar amplifier that has gained acclaim for its versatility and high-gain capabilities, particularly in rock and metal genres.

Jazz Rivet 120 (Roland JC-120)

The Roland JC-120, also known as the Jazz Chorus, is a legendary solid-state guitar amplifier that has made a significant impact on the music world since its introduction.

Mail Order Twin (Silvertone 1484)

The Silvertone 1484, also known as the Twin Twelve, is a notable guitar amplifier that has earned a reputation for its unique sound and historical significance in rock music.

Solo Lead Clean, Solo Lead Crunch, Solo Lead OD (Soldano SLO-100)

The Soldano SLO-100, known as the Super Lead Overdrive, is a legendary guitar amplifier that has significantly influenced the high-gain sound in rock and metal music.

Del Sol 300 (Sunn Coliseum 300)

The Sunn Coliseum 300 is a solid-state bass amplifier head renowned for its immense power, clean tone, and robust construction.

Moo)))n Nrm, Moo)))n Brt, Moo)))n Jump (Sunn Model T)

The Sunn Model T is a legendary guitar amplifier that has become iconic in the world of rock and metal music, known for its powerful sound and unique tonal characteristics.

Soup Pro (Supro S6616)

The Supro S6616, also known as the "Trojan," is a vintage amplifier revered for its unique tonal qualities and association with early rock and blues music.

Derailed Ingrid (Trainwreck Circuits Express)

The Trainwreck Circuits Express is a legendary boutique guitar amplifier known for its unique tonal characteristics and touch sensitivity.

Voltage Queen (Victoria Electro King)

The Victoria Electro King is a boutique guitar amplifier designed as a faithful recreation of the 1957 Gibson GA-40, also known as the McCarty-era amp.

Essex A15 (Vox AC15)

The Vox AC15 is a legendary amplifier celebrated for its rich history, distinctive tone, and enduring appeal among guitarists.

Essex A30, A30 Fawn Nrm, A30 Fawn Brt (Vox AC30)

The Vox AC30 is one of the most iconic guitar amplifiers in music history, celebrated for its distinctive "chimey" tone and association with legendary artists.

Effects

The Helix boasts an extensive library of effects, covering compression, overdrives, modulation, delays, reverbs, and pitch-shifting. Highlights include:

  • AnalogMan King of Tone and Prince of Tone overdrives.
  • Classic delays like the Maestro Echoplex EP-3.
  • Modulation effects such as phasers, choruses, and tremolos.
  • Advanced ambient reverbs like "Glitz" and "Dynamic Hall".

Players

The Helix has been embraced by a wide range of musicians across genres. Worship musicians value its versatility and portability, while session players appreciate its ability to emulate studio-quality tones. Artists such as Richie Castellano (Blue Öyster Cult) and Pete Thorn have praised its flexibility for both live performance and recording.

Legacy

Since its release, the Helix has expanded into a family of products, including the compact HX Stomp and budget-friendly Helix LT. Its continuous updates ensure it remains competitive against other high-end modelers like Fractal Audio's Axe-FX and Neural DSP's Quad Cortex.

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