All user reviews for the Line 6 POD X3 Live

Multi-purpose simulator and amplifiers, microphones and Hps.
The X3 Live is all digital. It is controllable via the Line 6 software on Mac and PC. No software or drivers to Linux. Damage.
Connectors ultra-complete. One of the strengths of the Pod.

UTILIZATION

Operation is intuitive enough, you quickly understand the operation.
Editing effects is extensive, many settings available. Too much perhaps?


SOUND QUALITY

I prefer to use the Pod amp simulator that simple multi-effect. some amp simulations are very successful. Again, lots of models available. Be careful though, some amps and cab 'is slightly disappointing but when you see the amount of modeling is almost anecdotal.
Some effects (Stomp particular) are difficult to use with a guitar. I think all of synth effects, etc. ... type ringmod Quite difficult to settle and the result is somewhat curious.
Honours for dual-tone function, which allows two independent signals simultaneously.

OVERALL OPINION

It has been two years since I use it. He stays at home now because I'm on a config 'all-tube (dual cab and orange terror PP212), which does not accommodate multi-effects. I returned to a more raw, more vintage, with two / three analog effects and nothing else.
The problem with this product is that it is almost too complete: A feeling of vertigo when you see the multitude of settings and parameters available to the user. So, be a good preset can take a really long time.
The X3 Live is still a great product, but rather directed to computer music, or tinker with sounds at home. I recommend to use 100% live.
Is what I'll buy this product? Yes and no! Once it has found its own sound, I prefer a good vintage tube amp with minimal effects analog. Now I really appreciate the shape of riffs and new sounds with both the Pod is complete. So, perhaps a bit expensive for a toy at home.

Basically ... Digital multi-effects, with customizable presets via the computer or directly from the pedal. An effects loop, headphone jack 3.5, and even a jack 2.5 for plugging his MP3 player. (The iPhone with all the applications you can have it, you can swing a backtrack, the metronome ...)

I bought it after my XT loose after 5 years of loyal service. Finding myself without cushy stuff to play with me (A Engl Invader 100W is not friends with your neighbors) I bought it, transferred packs effects from the pod XT and since it's party.

As usual with Line6 a plethora of effects to combine them BUT do not think you'll be able to use the effects loop with Dualtone! That is my big disappointment. -1

UTILIZATION

For a regular pod ... the time you arrive in front of the brick and play, you put less time to set your alarm clock. Nothing to say.

For the uninitiated, is preparing a manual coffee comes out, installs and you read it. Clearly, in French and quickly read!

I do not edit the effects on the pod itself, must bow down, turn the knobs as if it was a safe lock, etc. ... On the computer, should launch Line 6 Monkey and after a quick update, everything is edited with the mouse sitting comfortably.

The colon is that the black knobs are sensitive. Since I use the isp decimator G-string connected with the method of 4 Plugs (5 meter 4x ...) sometimes there is one who goes there or not and we must change everything! : /

The second is the expression pedal griiiince that after a few months. Not at all nice if you play without a headphone but fiddling with the key built in the X3 to adjust the pedal is manageable!

Obviously the construction is not made for the first buffalo that wants to come ride it! It remains for computer music and is NOT a surfboard.

SOUND QUALITY

We arrive at the weak point of line6 ... But at the same time, we do not take the X3 if we look for the absolute sound quality.

When I started using POD 7 years ago, it sounded like a siren song, any agreement sounded like a philharmonic orchestra in your headphones ... I became disenchanted with much time and we even talking about when you go to an amp all lamps! But what art it is handy when one wants to play at 00 in an apartment!

I use a Schecter c7 hellraiser and the G-string ISP decimator.

For comparison, the decimator is a true surgical chopper that cuts here and there or be held out of the noise gate x3 can not we play dice ankle in full. That's my advice for this reason we take one!

The effects are too numerous and we have a little time is short side explorer returned, we will spend a whole day to try them all, combine them in pre or post, etc..

The effects are generally good for the digital reverb but I find "empty", it makes no such feeling of space. The time there was something for everyone with or without phaser, chorus, etc..

The amp models are pretty good for numerical modeling ... must be realistic, it will never be worth more than the amp itself but for the home is the pod X3 live or to the larger budget, engl amp rack.


OVERALL OPINION

Very good investment for an average budget, I use it for almost 2 years, ideal for FET, with the experience maybe I waited a bit and I bought the fx-axis ultra-home fractal but there is already high quality and a cost much higher!

I have not noticed the product compared to what could be done in the industry, but in terms of price and over a range of medium quality good show.

For more information, or test, I live in Geneva and Lausanne, let me know!

I'm not going to list all the effects of all the amp models arranged nor any of the connectors is on the Line6 site.

Everything is editable with the GearBox software (PC / Mac) computer with a USB connection. We can also do it directly on the Pod, but it's a bit longer and not as convenient ...
Connected to a PC, it also serves as a sound card reading and writing.

This is obviously pedal format. The number of presets available is mind-blowing.

UTILIZATION

Usage is fairly simple, everything is very clear. You just spend a lot of time, or really have a clear idea of what we seek. The manual explains everything very well.

SOUND QUALITY

I use it with electric guitar and bass.

The effects are really real, not always very suitable for bass, but very satisfying. The amp simulations are sometimes impressive, often very successful! Do not expect to get sound Mesa Boogie or Marshall THE sound, but you'll actually apporcher!

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for 4 months and I am very satisfied. He completed the required tasks, I was already well serviced live, and I used mostly in home studio. Very full it still offers a sound solution.
In short, the price of opportunity ', in my opinion an excellent tool!

I run sound from gear box on my PC and it's the top!
in the chain have visual access to all parameters, what comfort!
effects are numerous and diverse and globally .... okay.
the pedal squeaks a bit on the pedal but it is "the road".
So it's digital .... it requires work on the set.
connection to the plethora of basic guitar.



UTILIZATION

Fairly complex configuration from the display pédalier.Par cons, from gearbox no souci.En clear, must be programmed at home will only make adjustments in rehearsal or on stage .
Manual: I initially read me and I plunged back from time to time.
Editing sounds: gearbox, gearbox, gearbox!!

SOUND QUALITY

1) effects: you know how the guitarists, real-candy breaks, but anyway there are enough to survive comfortably
2) cbs stratocaster 1975, pod x 3, a Rocktron intellipitch and 2 amplified speakers yamaha stagepass 300 (kit commando that fits in the back and two hands ").
Tip: above all do not plug into an amp, it means nothing unless you can Sqeeze the preamp and keep only the power stage.
3) I hate synths and pitch which are not stable at all, the whammy: bof!.

OVERALL OPINION

1) 1 year
2) I had an XT before and I also tried the vox
3) the versatility and support Line 6
4) value: what else do you want for 3500 bales
5) I tried the HD, I keep my x 3 Live!

everything is said.

UTILIZATION

Request a while to get the best of it. Most

SOUND QUALITY

amp simulations sound good bills and in particular the FENDER BASSMAN 59 'and the Marshall JCM800. When comparing weight-qualitprix with all-tube guitar combo, the choice is quickly made. The distortion pedals are INTERESTED and effects are respectable. I would strongly advise not to plug this into a multi guitar amp ... he takes "full range" sound system with feedback, or amps like Tech 21 Power Engine 60.

OVERALL OPINION

Weight ratio qualitprix is excellent, the price is lovely. I do not regret buying this at all. Beautiful

While there is little prs any effects that are of the greatest amp simulation of the most famous pedals.
The pedal is programmable via the PC (it even simpler to do for that matter). It's not a pedal rack. It's all digital

UTILIZATION

The manual is complete as it's been a whole book ..... I never read when even if it is to see what the different simulations it offers. The config is not simple or complicated, the PC edition via video is simple and friendly.

SOUND QUALITY

Effects are not bad at all. Well I'll be honnte I prfere a good amp with good pedal lights. But frankly, the pod is not ridiculous, it's very good in sound. Moreover, it is also a sound card (audio interfase) and it works very well indeed for the home studio is small cot

OVERALL OPINION

It makes perfect 3years that I, I went home studio and the record is very good. I played in a group with AC and the fact as well. It is certain that AC will never be worth a great brand amp and pedals good, but let GPs for the price of pod x3live can just get a good distortion pedal and a reverb in quality store. The price is very actractif because you can do a gig without an amplifier, a mixing desk enough, you can play with headphones, connect the speakers above PC or connected to an amp and whenever there are sounds correct.
Good product I do not regret much

Well, go on this point: all sites show the sellers product data sheet (and the Line6 site itself offers moult for each product information and photos / videos).

UTILIZATION

Is extremely simple ... especially through the gearbox (editor PC / Mac): = a single constraint approach his podx3live of his computer to usb connection!
Then, it rolls itself = you download the sounds / patches directly (and you can rework all parameters illico or later).
The screens are different from one type to another amp is dc super easy to navigate!

SOUND QUALITY

Well, again, opinions differ on the digital side too (and "cold") Line6 products ... For my part, I agree line6 sounds quite (Styles played: U2 primarily, but also ColdPlay, straycat, Police, Pogues, ZZTop, AC / DC, Eagles, Trust, Telephone, Dire Straits ...) even if must almost always rework the sounds / patches downloadable on the net ... to make them "stick" to its "leaf" in itself! But it is true that comparing (I also have a zoom G9.2tt), one or two lamps in the circuit, it warms you up faster sound!
Where podx3live excels is for the delay / reverb and other FX (pitches, etc.), less for distos.
I play it with alternately a Variax 500 (upgraded and connected by ethernet Special line6), and more traditional models (a fender strato, a project gretsch, ovation) ... The pallet is made impressive variety, especially as the placements / memories are many.



OVERALL OPINION

Almost 7 months and I am far from having been around the palette simus amps and effects.
I tried multiple bosses and the j-m4 (home line6): The pod is infinitely more versatile and efficient in my opinion (more settings, settings) ...
The +: the coupling of delays (although the Line6 M13 is better at this point)
le:??
The product is not cheap either, but it is in very affordable for a sound that is jus ...
Yes, I would do even if that choice from the M13 (pure multi effects) convinced me for what I play ...

An impressive bank of effects (delay, verb chorus, flange, distortion, equa, compressor, wah, rotary, ...) more than it takes all editable and all good, very good show!
Monkey editable via software (free) Line6
Full connectivity: USB (used as sound card on PC!), Noon XLR microphone input voice (a little gadget in my opinion) in line input, output jack / XLR

On top of this system: the amp simulation: a real treat

UTILIZATION

simple basic setup ... but very fast it can get complicated if one wants to manage the different sounds of various banks, add and modify effects, change the order of effects in pre-post ...

Incidentally, a real plus: food and can conenct a Variax directly!

The manual is well done

SOUND QUALITY

Personally, I use a simulation of the JC120 for clear sound with a Start and MusicMan: top delirium! for saturation, I'm a fan of Lukather (Toto) and took a Soldano in simulation: a killer! I use the

OVERALL OPINION

X3Live since its release, because I was a former user of the Pod3 Pod2 then ... So, I'm not disappointed ... the price is still too high but still within the average of good products in the same range (Vox, Boss)

I love the most, reliability and sound quality (I am one of the few to never play guitar amp on my Pod, but thanks to Live PA)

What I like least: the range of its factory shipped that do not cover a sufficiently broad spectrum (light, crunh, rock, saturation, ...) but very big sound oriented (very large saturated) ..

Otherwise, I would do without hesitation that choice! Na

(Originally written by kikiln/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
Pod X3 Live bought in December 07.

All-digital amp simulation and multi-effects pedal for bass and guitar! Sold with user's manual, USB cable for PC connection (can be used with the free Gearbox software) and PSU.

Very comprehensive connections!!!

Inputs: variax, guitar, mic, phones, aux, Midi, FX, CD/MP3, pedal 2

Outputs: L/R PA system, L/R amp, FX, S/PDIF, Midi out/thru

Allows the connection of two instruments at the same time: guitar/guitar, guitar/bass, bass/vocals, etc.

Disadvantage: mic level setting is not easy but it's ok if you are patient.

Good integrated volume/wah or FX control pedal. No noise problems.

Nice chrome switch and knobs. They work well, no sweat.

My only concern is the plastic housing! Take care of it if you want it to look new a long time.

UTILIZATION

- Is it easy to make settings?

Yes, a beginner could use it and the user's manual is clear enough.

- Is it easy to edit sounds or effects?

Not really, if you want to do it directly on the device! Personally, I use the Gearbox 3.7 software for PC which is incredibly easy and intuitive. I make the whole editing on my PC and I save them in the POD XL. The sound possibilities are so many that I will need a very long time to discover its full capabilities.

- Is the user's manual clear and comprehensive?

Yes (I skimmed through it). Line 6 provides user's manual updates on their website. And they are downloadable.

- Drivers, software?

The free LINE6 MONKEY software gives you an overview of all installed drivers and programs compatible with the POD X3L. It also informs you when a new version is available. Nice!

The last firmware (v3.4.2.9) seems to be very stable. I had problems with older firmware versions but Line 6 did a good job and removed all bugs.

I find the free GEARBOX software wonderful and essential to use the device. It makes sound editing very easy.

POD FARM is also free and excellent. It's a kind of VST plug-in that allows you to use the PODX3 in your favorite sequencer (Sonar, Cubase, etc.).

Until now, I'm very satisfied with all Line 6 software tools compatible with my POD X3L. A real DELIGHT!

SOUND QUALITY

The sound is just excellent!!!

For a fully digital unit, it's incredible. Amp models are very faithful to the original. I previously owned a Fender tube amp and believe me the Fender models in the POD X3 are very authentic.

The unit provides you huge possibilities. Only high quality. The device allows you to discover new effects and amps (I especially like the Mesa Boogie and Citrus).

The distortions sound vintage and the clean sound is excellent.

The very powerful Dual Tone mode allows you to combine two sound sets.

But I personally don't use it a lot. I use it mainly when I connect two instruments to get a dedicated sound for each source.

I use a 2 x 60-watt Tech21 Powerengine to get a transparent sound. It enhances the audio quality and the amp modelings of the POD X3.

I also own a Variax, which is a delight with the POD X3.

OVERALL OPINION

Amazing!

I'm ecstatic! And with a Variax guitar it's even better!

(Originally written by props/translated from Audiofanzine FR)

See ads, other reviews, user's manual etc.
More than comprehensive connections!!!
The wah pedal looks pretty nice but squeaks a lot in spite of regular lubrication. The switches also need to be lubricated from time to time. I would have preferred alternate switch stages to avoid recalling a preset and an effect at the same time!
On the software side, upgrading the firmware via the Line 6 site works pretty smoothly, but the USB connection to a PC is a bit unstable. It might be my PC though... anyway I use the unit mainly in standalone mode.

UTILIZATION

- Is it easy to make settings?
Yes and no! Once you understand the principle behind it, it becomes easy. But the possibilities are so many that it's not easy to master the system even after several months of use.

- Is it easy to edit sounds or effects?
Generally speaking, yes. The plethora of parameters is a delight if you want to fine-tune your own sounds. But some interesting parameters aren't easily accessible (tweak, FX loop, etc.). I would like to have the possibility to combine effects directly on the main display.

Is the user's manual clear and comprehensive?
I don't read manuals I prefer to learn by doing and being curious. I refer to the user's manual only if I can't seem to get anywhere. But that didn't happen until after several weeks so it's a good sign!

SOUND QUALITY

It's pretty difficult to give a general statement regarding the sound quality because of the large variety of effects. You'll find excellent sounds, good sounds and average sounds, but you'll also find some totally worthless sounds (synth sounds most of all). I personally didn't spend a long time with the factory presets, I started to program my own effects very early.
Generally speaking, I get very good, cutting sounds for metal. With the dual EQ, the stomp boxes, the compressor and the noise gate you have a comprehensive tool set to create very fat sounds!!! With the dual-tone function I get mind-blowing nu metal simulations in the typical Deftones "Be quite and drive" style!! I've also created lots of warm and dynamic blues/rock sounds which I like a lot!! But you'll have to test, experiment, and dive into it... I also programmed bizarre sounds. It's a delight with the dual-tone function!!!

Regarding modulation effects, I love the side chorus which produces a wide sound without altering the source signal, and I also like some flanging algorithms. I do miss some good phasing effects, the one and only phaser is really poor. Most reverb effects are nice. The wah effects are mostly good but some of them sound too shrill. I like the delays with lots of voices and a nice vintage character.

I use it mainly at home with my LᥠRoxane (two Seymour Duncan pickups) and my amplified M-Audio monitors. Unlike other Line 6 effects, this unit doesn't alter the source signal. That's definitely a good point because my guitar has a very warm sound and it would be a pity to waste it. I also use it with my amp which has no FX loop, but that's another story. The sound is totally crushed... it's a consequence of the modeling technology! I hardly ever use the mic preamp so I don't have an opinion about it (and I wouldn't have anything to compare it to anyway).

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using it for 4-5 months, mainly at home because I prefer to plug directly into my amp when I play with a band! In this case, I don't want to tweak sounds for hours, I just want to plug my guitar and play! So it's a toy for home use, sound trips and experimenting... One day I will take it to a band rehearsal if I have the matching amp (my Vox has no FX loop).
This unit is a beast for programming freaks. It provides lots of possibilities and very good sounds. It also has some useless sounds which I won't ever use except maybe for an experimental music trip...
The overall sound quality is very good, although emulations aren't always perfect. But I don't need perfect emulations of a vintage gear or an artist's sound. Thanks to the real-time controls and the dual-tone function, its expressiveness is the unit's main strength. To wrap it up, it's a nice and awfully versatile toy with a reasonable price tag.