Line 6 Helix Volume

[Clouds84]

I upgraded from the Boss ME-80 to the Line 6 Helix. Massive price difference. I'm noticing a difference in volume when connecting to through the PA system. The helix is much quieter than the ME-80. Is this normal or do I need to relook at my settings?

 

[lefty73]

Adjust your settings. There are multiple levels of output parameters to deal with - preamp, power stage, global outputs, etc.

 

[Jbnaxx]

I would like to hear your input comparing the two. Is the sound upgrade worth the upgrade in cost and complexity?

 

[Rayf_Brogan]

Lots of places to look at. First, make sure the big knob is all the way up. Then, look at your 1/4 inch output in global settings. Should this be line or instrument? Line level should be louder I think. You can bump up the dbs in the global settings, or jump into the output block of your patches to raise your volume.

If you need to adjust volume on a per patch basis and everything else seems good, that's where I'd adjust the amps channel volume. None of these methods should impact your tone.

 

[codamedia]

I'm noticing a difference in volume when connecting to through the PA system. The helix is much quieter than the ME-80. Is this normal or do I need to relook at my settings?

Going direct to the PA the Helix output should be set to MIC or LINE Level. Instrument Level is too low. The Big Volume control should also be FULL.... that volume does not boost anything, it only cuts signal.

Also... a well known issue with the Helix units is that that XLR outputs don't like phantom power. The general result is a heavily attenuated signal that might be accompanied by some clipping. If you have to plug into a PA that has Phantom at all times, then use the 1/4" outs and a direct box to keep the Helix isolated.

FWIW... I always run the 1/4" outs on my Helix to a direct box... then to the PA. I set the 1/4" outs to LINE and disengage the big volume from those outputs. If a tech needs less level, I pad it at the DI. My XLR out is also set to line and has the big volume attached... I feed that to my FRFR on stage.

 

[Mad Kiwi]

Echo above, ensure your line-outs in global settings (XLR and/or Line outs are Line and not instrument level), and something I only recently learned, use the big knob at full for the full signal.

The other thing is 2 years in and I'm still finding things I love and more and more an appreciation of the unit (Helix LT in my case). Don't be too quick to judge if at first, it's not quite what you expected.

Like a good amp, it takes a bit to figure things out and balance everything. Guitar, playing style, output volumes, gain structure, etc.

Good luck.

 

[codamedia]

I would like to hear your input comparing the two. Is the sound upgrade worth the upgrade in cost and complexity?

The sound upgrade is certainly worth it to me.... but there is a learning curve. The unit is not hard to use, but it is DEEP! There are a million ways to make things sound bad .

When I create a preset I reach for the same amp, cab, mic, effects as I do in real life and my tone is pretty much the same. I find the Helix is like having a music store at my disposal... but I already know what I want from that music store

If someone doesn't know what they are looking for the options would appear endless... and many dig a hole they can't get out of.