Steve, great video as always!! Thanks and I think it is great that you take the time to respond to every comment. BTW - “impeeeeedance” 🤣😂🤣 only us old dudes would pick up on that!!!
1. Templates 2. Presets WILL sound much different live than in your house. 3. Dial back the reverb 4. Try the preset will all pickup combinations. 5. Dial back the low end. You have a bass player.
I set all my presets with my guitar volume at 5. It just seems to help give me the sound I want and I can use my volume knob like I did on an amp. I make all my presets at stage volume this saves any surprises when we play live. I have always set my high and low cut on my IR as it make sense to be doing it to the speaker output. There are so many places to do this on the Helix I was loosing track where I was doing it and when going back later to edit a high cut at a loss now where did I do that. Seems to work ok for me. Thanks for your comments Steve really helpful getting info from a gigging muso. Cheers
I wish time and space weren't an issue 😅🤣. Would love to have a real studio type room to keep set up. I appreciate you watching! Hope to get to it soon
@@SteveSterlacci spent a whole evening watching more of your vids and playing with the HX stomp, I got killer tones and control now. I have one question, do you know of a way to assign tap tempo to a preset without doing it globally, there is only one preset I need it for and would like to use FS3 fo other things in other presets. is it possible in control centre to send back cc64 to HX, could make a good vid if possible.... thanks again, great channel
That's a great question. I don't believe its possible though. Any assignment for tap and tuner are global. It is possible if you have banks on your midi device though
Save, Backup and Update Often. I normally do this like once a month depending on how much I'm working with my Helix. While I was on tour I backed up my helix weekly. Sometimes more than that. You can never save and backup your helix too much and it's a great habit or practice to keep. Another great and informative video Steve. 👍👍
--- [1] For the Helix & PodGo, backups are so quick, easy, & wise. It is negligent if you don't backup frequently. ---[1] Back up --[a] when you start & --[b] when you end any session (editing, practicing, rehearsing, noodling, etc.). You might screw up something during a session, & a 'beginning-of-session' backup will get you back to your, duh, 'beginning-of-session' setup. An 'end-of-session' backup will preserve your hard work & time spent, so that you'll be ready to go for your next session. Obviously, I have a Helix & PodGo. Richard
I set my 1/4 volume out to be controlled with the volume knob. That goes into my personal monitor(whatever it may be). The XLR is set to Mic and goes to FOH (the PA). That way I can adjust my stage volume without affecting the FOH mix. Sound guys like that.
Working off snapshots: Use your amp model to get most of your gain. Then use as desired OD/distortion effect to color. Real world-analogue: I use an edge of breakup amp single amp and gain stage it with 3 or 4 OD boxes. In helix world: I use 4 snaps that increase the amps gain which gives me 4 pallets to paint from. By the way: it’s im. pEd. ence.
Totally agree about using running the Helix into FRFR's. Call me crazy, but I want my _effects_ unit to color the sound, and I want my amplifier to just _amplify_. Interesting suggestion with splitting the delay and reverb into parallel paths. That surely will help keep your delays from getting muddy. I'll give that a shot.
Great work Steve! I would add Low Cut as well. As someone said below, you have a bass player. I like to start around 70hz and adjust to taste. I love bass in my guitar tone when I'm playing alone, but only when I'm alone. In a band you need to give the bass player room so you might need to really cut the bass to like 100hz. Remember guitar is a MID RANGE instrument...mostly.
Fantastic 10 tips brother SS. Nice hair BTW. Sadly havent touched my helix or guitar in a long time ;( need to get back to them. Miss your vids. Need to catch up. Keep rocking.
How have I not seen this yet?! Great succinct advice on the big ticket pain points of the Helix. I need to explore that unity’ish volume concept between the patch, err... preset vs bypass. Thanks!
On the ROD Go, I don't bother with OD/Dist blocks. I get the different gain and vol changes from the snapshots, and I get the extra squish and sustain for solos from a comp.
Yo Steve! Thanks man, I watched all your vids in the week leading up to buying my helix floor. I liked what you said about the reverb signal chain, I was wondering if you’d ever want to make a video about that. Big brain on the dual cab thing. I managed to get some sounds that sound nearly identical to my Mark V
Hey Steve... great vid, as always. Personally, I used to use a Katana as a cabinet by sending the Helix into the Power Amp In. In case the Helix died on me, I could just use the Katana direct for presets. When the Line 6 Celestion debuted, I tried my Helix into the Power Amp In and loved it. The advantage is it has Line 6 customizable tones as a backup. No need to bring a backup Stomp or other floorboard. So, when using the Power Amp In, you're really bypassing the modeling features of the Katana/Celestion/ modeling amp and using the Helix, instead, and you have a backup just in case. Simple.
Recording tip - in addition to a totally wet and totally dry signal, also record an output without reverb/delay - that way if you have too much, the engineer can mix in your semi-dry signal to reduce it, rather than having to use your dry signal and reamp or put it through a sim. Simplest way to do this is to use an FX Send block in the right spot - this gets recorded from USB 5/6.
Thats exactly what I am doing with the parallel FX except I am the mixer as well. You can easily split the path and send the 2 to separate outputs to do what you are saying though! So much flexibility
Hi Steve ... Congrats on a great YT channel ... absolutely one of the best out there. Quality content, and complete absence of nonsense :). I have an idea for an Helix/Pod Go episode ... that I think could be cool .... Could you team up with i.e. you bass player in your band, and have a "make a great Bass tone" tutorial for the Pod Go ? There is mostly death metal tutorials for bass and Pod Go out there l.. so a proper Bass/Pod Go tutorial is sadly missing. Keep up the great work ... I watch every new video from you... Cheers Nils
Hi Steve, I bought a Helix LT a couple of months ago. I'm loving the tones I can get out of it, and have a long way to go exploring all the possibilities. I'm taking on board your recommendations. I've adopted it as the interface to my recording setup (Logic Pro X) and I understand how to get the DI guitar into a track for reamping if necessary. However, it seems a bit long winded to record two tracks (patched and DI) and then use Helix Native on the DI later as necessary. Have I got this wrong as the workflow? What is your workflow for this? As an aside, it's a shame the Helix LT doesn't have an XLR input (I couldn't justify double the money for for the full Helix). Do you have a suggestion for how I could get my microphone into the Helix LT? I'm thinking I'll have to use my legacy interface and switch inputs in Logic for recording the mic input, which is not too big a deal but would be good if it could be avoided. BTW regarding "impedance", it's similar to electrical resistance and when you connect the output of one circuit to the input of another it's best if the impedance is "matched" so that the second circuit works as expected. An analogy is connecting a water hose to a sprinkler system. You should match the water pressure of the hose to that required for the sprinkler system to work properly. To low and the sprinklers won't spray, too high and something might burst.
Hey Gary! You are correct in recording the 2 tracks independently. The point of it is more of a fallback in case your recorded tone doesnt suit the mix in the end. For the mic, you could just use an adapter , but will never be able to send phantom power. You can also just pick up a cheap used focusrite for your mic. Just won't be able to use them both as interfaces at the same time
Best practice, maybe. File management. I create new presets for each song. A song may stay in the set for a few weeks. Then 6 months later, it gets put in the set again. I have a folder set up on my laptop that I export individual presets to. It makes it very simple to go the an empty preset slot, tap Import, go to the file , which is saved in alpha order, and bring It back in. This saves time trying to search through the Helix set lists trying to find an old preset. The preset in the pcfolder also has a date, so if I have a couple different versions of a song, I can see the newest.
Great video. For all my presets I use a gain block near the end of the chain with either a +3 or +6 DB boost hooked up for solo boost. Then I have one setlist with them all +3 and another identical setlist for +6 db. So depending on venue, I load up one setlist or the other. Small venues with smaller stage stuff like electric drums etc, less boost. Large venues with acoustic drums, bigger bass cabs etc....larger boost. Anyhoo....let's say you have a small mixer with only 3-4 XLR that are all used for vocal mics so you have to run 1/4 inch into one of the remaining inputs......helix goes to MIC or LINE in this case?
Steve, regarding headphones, you mentioned the Beyerdynamics DT770. These come in various impedances: 16, 32, 80, 250 ohm, maybe others. I know that you said that you were not familiar with various impedance variable for Helix input. However, do you have any thought or comment regarding the various impedances on the Beyerdynamics DT 770? Thanks, Richard
Going to look for Parallel FX video. Would also like to know how to add paths to a stock preset. Not just dragging a block down, but creating a new input path on an existing preset. For instance, I have a preset using my Variax mags, and I want to add a path that has a Variax 12 string along with it. Currently I go to templates, and recreate the whole preset. I know it can’t be that hard, nothing in Helix is. Gain structure is a big for me. I develop a new preset for every song, after a while they just creep up in volume, because my habit it to add, rather than cut.
I hope some of you find these useful: 1. Explore the sag control, and try adding a compressor somewhere in the chain to help simulate the subtle compression going on inside a tube amp circuit, and to simulate some sensation of “feedback-like” sustain (since getting real feedback with digital products is tough). 2. Try using 2 similar, yet different amp blocks and 2 dual-cab blocks for a thicker tone. Use paths 1 and 2 to accomplish this. 3. Try creating as realistic of a signal chain as possible. Maybe your modulations, delays and reverbs will sound better in an “effects loop” between the amp and cabinet blocks instead of after the cabinet? 4. Consider setting a control between 1-9 when building presets/snapshots at home instead of 0-10. That way when you’re at the gig, you always have a little wiggle room to add or remove ANYTHING that you might want for that particular performance. I normally do this for any level, gain, mix, and EQ control.
As always great information. I have the Helix a month and the powercab plus 112 a week or so. I got USB from Helix to computer and link cable from helix to powercab plus. I don't have usb from Powercab to computer I figured you don't need it connected with link line from helix. When I play youtube or music it goes thru the powercab. I would like to have my pa speakers getting the music. My PA speakers hooked to line 6 tone port. I probably have to change a setting on the computer.
Im guilty of pluguing the podgo in the efectes return of my katana head, is the only way I have of using only the poweramp and my 4*12 Marshall cab. Not lucky enough to have an FRFR cab yet...
@@SteveSterlacci its just easy now for rehersal, the plan is using just the podgo for giggging when its finally aloud. Thanks for the videos! Keep up the good work.
Really great stuff! Funny because I use the Boss Katana but I plug the helix in the power amp input and then the out to the FOH, I can control my volume on the Katana if It needs more volume than the Helix is putting out, and not bothering the sound guy to turn up my monitors
Awesome use! I do a similar thing with the helix. I use xlr to house and 1/4inch to my stage sound (whatever back line or powercab if we are in the US ) with the big volume knob only controlling the stage volume and, like you, not touching the sound to FOH
@@SteveSterlacci fair point. I've got a Katana Head that I run into a Marshall 412, and have used the fx return as a "power amp in" on it before, and it's pretty killer sounding honestly. Have to turn off your cabs/irs in the Helix though, or it sounds bad. I had the Katana before I got the Helix, and it's a great amp.
Great tips Steve, never tried the impedance setting. Have to give that a look see when I get home. Is that also available on the STOMP?? P.S. Still waiting for the child info from you. John
Im new to helix so this is a beginner question , but when discussing IRs vs dual cabs , it is refering to a digital,setup in the helix right , not actual external cabs to play through ,
First, it's "im-PEE-dence". "IM-puh-dence" is something that happens to old men. Second, the impedance basically the resistance to having the electrons moved back and forth. Basically, you're trying to send an oscillating signal (starting from your vibrating strings) through to the Helix. Imagine that, to do this, you have to shake a big rubber wall back and forth. Imagine that the Helix is on the other side of this wall, and all it can do is see how much the wall is moving. If the wall is really thin, then it's easy to shake it at high and low frequencies. If the wall is thick and heavy, then it becomes pretty difficult to shake it quickly (so your high frequencies start to get attenuated). Of course, there's a lot more going on than just that, but that's a way to conceptualize it that might make intuitive sense.
Impedance is one of my least favorite words to say. No idea why 🤣🤣🤣. Just think of all the time I save not hanging on that e! Thats actually a great real world example of what it does. Thank you for adding that in here
Probably mentioned in another one of Steve's vids, but: If you use the XLR out to the mixer board of a PA, MAKE SURE the phantom power is off on the Helix's channels. I don't think it will hurt the unit, but it makes everything sound like ass.
I think the new Boss Katana allows you to just use the power section, so that may be why you see those comments. 1) My number one thing for any modeler is don't be beholden to the settings you use on your amp. Like you said, try different things. I've created presets then deleted all the blocks and started over a number of times. I wish they would give you the option of using two mics on the same cab. 2) If you like the big stereo choruses like in the 80s, sometimes I'll use two - one mono in front of the amp mainly for the rate, then a stereo one after for the width. Gives a neat interaction between them. 3) If you have both Stomp and Helix, build your basic rig on Stomp, save the presets, then put them in Helix to add the icing stuff you need on that. At a minimum, all your amps and levels will be the same and save some work.
@@SteveSterlacci thanks, honestly, I hadn't tried the dual cab because I just assumed it would take two blocks. But you have to have the separate cab block from the amp, correct?
@@Scott__C yup. Use just amp and then just cab block, click the tab to dual and you can page right to see the second cab. Important to note thats they're gonna be panned hard right and left until you put a mono effect in there
Hi Steve! Great video, as always! IMPEDENCE: I've learned that the value is striclty related to how the guitar interact with Helix, I mean eg for each impedence level you can set on Helix, you can hear dinamic diffrences in just turning the GUITAR VOLUME POT... mainly usig some drien amp... Did you heve check?
This. High impedance = guitar volume pot cleans up when almost off, often around 1 or 2. Low impedance = guitar volume pot cleans up really early, around 8 or 9.
I love watching videos where you create a patch from scratch. Taking a blank preset (I mean patch) and creating the patch one block at a time then setting up the snapshots for the patch. I have a question. Can you still turn blocks on and off like in stomp mode while in an individual snapshot? I cant find this out no matter where I look!!! Please answer if you know. Im going to go watch some more videos on making a patch on the hx stomp. I love hx stomp patches. Patch patch patch. Love patches!!! Lol!
Gain staging for Powercab? Use the output block to boost your signal to the PC, or is there a magic number that you can use as a guide to push the signal to the ideal level as you build your preset? Basically I run my Helix to the PC and XLR out to the board so I can use the speaker models
I'm a bit late to the Helix party, but the input impedance setting option seems a little odd. It is set "per preset", whereas I would have thought in would be a global setting like the guitar pad setting if it makes so much difference. Then, as per the pad setting, each preset can "decide" if the impedance setting would be global or a preset level tweak. Should also note that the impedance setting is something you can alter in a snapshot, which could save you the need for an early EQ block if you are just looking to cut highs or make warmer across snapshots. Regarding the Katana, I totally agree; however it is something I do at times for convenience when I am just wanting to practice playing, not trying to tone match etc. If the Katana is set to clean amp with no gain and no effects it is adequate as a home playback monitor. At this point I refer back to your first point about getting too bogged down in technicalities and not actually playing. If I didn't go the Katana route at times I think I would play less and maybe just stop due to lack of opportunity.
A few reasons i can think of. It's quite light and offers 3 wattage settings: .5w, 50w, 100w. Changing wattage doesnt affect your tone. So great for practicing at home or gigging volumes. Second, bypassing the preamp (power amp in) gives you access to a pretty good FRFR experience. Third, if you take the time to create a few basic patches within the katana, if the helix fails at a gig, you have an easy fail safe. Last, it sounds surprisingly good for the price point and there's a robust online community. Really liking your channel. Just found it!
Steve, something odd I find is that if I remove the cabinet model from my preset, it sounds bad...guitar in to helix.....I am feeding the 1/4 outs to the effects return (power amp section) of an acoustic 100 W amp (loudbox 100) 2 way speaker combo....I haven't tried removing it on every patch but I have noticed it.....not sure why?
Because its meant to be a flatter response speaker. You need the cabinet modeling to sound like guitar cabinets. If you ran through a powered electric guitar cabinet, you could bypass the cabs. The acoustic 100 isn't a cabinet loaded with electric guitar speakers. It should sound bad without them 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@SteveSterlacci that' what a studio monitor is...a flat response powered speaker....so if I had studio monitors would it also sound bad without cabinet modelling in the helix?...because essentially, an acoustic combo is a relatively flat FRFR type speaker?
So, how do you work with the Helix as the audio interface when you need to work with more than the Helix to record? I mean, ASIO devices don't allow multiple devices to be connected at the same time (says the ASIO protocole), adding a software layer (MacOSX or Voicemeeter stuffs on windows) is always a cost in latency, and switching between ASIO devices is a massive PITA because it means the input/output of each tracks have to be re-routed for each device. So I don't know how you do this in an efficient way? Or maybe you only track guitar?
IF you need more than just guitar or tracking 1 at a time, just use your regular interface with multiple inputs. Unless you can use one of the paths in Helix for it. That can work as well...
Hmmm i am not sure you can with PG, but it does have a separate "amp out" that can go to a speaker type of cab like the l6 powercab that has speaker models
Ok thank you. I have learned a lot from your videos Steve! I would have been lost without the help of these videos from you and a few other people. I just got my Helix floor 4 days ago and ive got it set up and stage ready. Thanks again!
I made a patch for the song I Ran by The Flock of Seagulls for my 80's cover band but the delay trails in snapshots aren't spilling over. It makes this weird sound when I switch snapshots. Is it because the delay is drastically different on each snapshot.
Salut Steve, ton expertise semble tres intéressante mais pense à tous ceux qui ne comprennent pas ta langue, mêts un peu plus d'images de réglages de l'Hélix pour que nous puissions en profiter , merci pour tes vidéos.
Hey Steve,do you ever get a preset tweaked to perfection,to where it’s the best sound you have ever gotten,only to come back to it the next day,and wonder what was I thinking??This sounds horrible...I do it all the time..
@@SteveSterlacci don't feel bad, I did the same thing in a recording engineering class in the 80's and was literally laughed at by the instructor and the entire class full of strangers. I still cringe just thinking about it. Needless to say I never made that mistake again...
That's true Steve you did save time and think about all the giggles you gave to everyone who knew how it is supposed to be pronounced ! Great video though !
New Helix owner agree makes no sense to plug into a modeling amp. I do have a Fender Cyber Deluxe for sale. I have considered plugging into that on a clean channel for now I have just used with headphones. Selling things to get the Powercab Plus. I do have some Powered PA speakers I can plug into for now.
the powered PA speakers will be nice! They do have a honkiness to them that always irritated me. The tweeters usually are the culprit. You can bypass it in the PC 112+
hi Steve, love your Channel I've learned good things about the Helix from you. Just for your information you are mispronouncing the word impedance. the way you pronounce it is what happens when a guy can't perform in the bedroom. the E should have a long sound like when your mother says eat your peas. Impedance is the resistance of an electrical circuit. Thanks for all your help just thought you should know.
1. Get your tone solid BEFORE adding IRs... you want the unique character of IRs to add, not fix. 2. EQ block after amp/cab. Cut those highs and lows.. adjust to the venue and room. 3. Don’t rely only on pedals to push the amp or generate drive, assign button or snapshot to multiple amp/cab/pedal setting simultaneously.
Hi Steve, your expertise sounds very interesting but think of all those who do not understand your language, put some more pictures of Helix settings so that we can enjoy it, thank you for your videos.
Katana has a return for modelers to bypass the preamp and fx so that you’re just using the Katana’s power amp. Why? The Helix has more features, amps, and fx than Katana.
@@SteveSterlacci They’re probably plugging the Helix output directly into the amps’ input. Or they’re using an amps’ return (correct) but still trying to use cab sims in the Helix. For an amp, you have to set the Helix up properly and plug it into the amp correctly. Have to use the preamp only version of an amp model too.
1. back up your stuff religiously. Back up every day, before you start tweaking. 2. Find your "single source of truth" speaker/PA/headphones and base your sound in reference to that. 3. Do not rely on Global EQ, use Global EQ only as an emergency, to dial in some specific frequencies at a gig. (You've said that yourself) 3. Ear fatigue is real. What sounds amazing today, may sound like crap tomorrow............. now about trying things, if you connect your 4-cable method wrong, you can fry your helix and the amp.... if you connect it to "speaker out" accidentally.
Tech help: Studio Headphones (Cans) amzn.to/3cmfZ5t that you recommend: Which cans do you use/recommend in the video, that is, what impedance (sold by Ohms)? The answer I assume includes where you are monitoring, from your DAW (amped?) or from the Helix itself? I haven't got my Helix yet, so forgive the naivety. When monitoring, where are you plugging the cans into and therefore which headphone Ohm option is best? Thanks...
Lets hear some of your best practices with the Helix!
Check out my Premium Helix Presets Here - bit.ly/2FJJjEm
Steve, great video as always!! Thanks and I think it is great that you take the time to respond to every comment. BTW - “impeeeeedance” 🤣😂🤣 only us old dudes would pick up on that!!!
1. Templates
2. Presets WILL sound much different live than in your house.
3. Dial back the reverb
4. Try the preset will all pickup combinations.
5. Dial back the low end. You have a bass player.
Great list! thank you
#5. And I thought I was the only one
@@nigeldaddyo Madison Square Bedroom sounds don't sound good on stage. LOL
Super helpful. Thank you Steve !
😄😄😄😄
The hi-cut video is gold. It helped my tone the most.
Yesss! Thank you for checking it out
I set all my presets with my guitar volume at 5. It just seems to help give me the sound I want and I can use my volume knob like I did on an amp. I make all my presets at stage volume this saves any surprises when we play live. I have always set my high and low cut on my IR as it make sense to be doing it to the speaker output. There are so many places to do this on the Helix I was loosing track where I was doing it and when going back later to edit a high cut at a loss now where did I do that. Seems to work ok for me. Thanks for your comments Steve really helpful getting info from a gigging muso. Cheers
Glad to help and i am glad you're getting something out of the vids!
Your wisdom is always refreshing and super helpful. Thank you so much.
That means a lot! Thank you
Thanks Steve, for another great video about the Helix. I’ll make sure to check out most of your tips!
Thank you!
This video is awesome! I fixed a lot of annoyances following your advice.
That makes me so happy to hear ! Make sure you check out the Mistakes to Avoid video too! Hope to have earned your sub
I've learned so much about the helix on this channel. I'm still waiting for a helix acoustic video. :)
Yes, I play my acoustic and mandolin thru the helix. Would love to get some setup help on this, especially EQing.
I wish time and space weren't an issue 😅🤣. Would love to have a real studio type room to keep set up. I appreciate you watching! Hope to get to it soon
Just got a HX stomp today, your vids have been amazing resource. THX
Thanks Linz! Means a lot. Hope you learn it all!
@@SteveSterlacci spent a whole evening watching more of your vids and playing with the HX stomp, I got killer tones and control now. I have one question, do you know of a way to assign tap tempo to a preset without doing it globally, there is only one preset I need it for and would like to use FS3 fo other things in other presets. is it possible in control centre to send back cc64 to HX, could make a good vid if possible.... thanks again, great channel
That's a great question. I don't believe its possible though. Any assignment for tap and tuner are global. It is possible if you have banks on your midi device though
And thank you so much for watching!
Save, Backup and Update Often. I normally do this like once a month depending on how much I'm working with my Helix. While I was on tour I backed up my helix weekly. Sometimes more than that. You can never save and backup your helix too much and it's a great habit or practice to keep. Another great and informative video Steve. 👍👍
See this is one i wish i remembered to mention 😅🤣🤣😅 great addition!
I back up every time I edit. I have periodic setlist backups and preset backups - every time I edit. Advantage of using HX Edit routinely.
--- [1] For the Helix & PodGo, backups are so quick, easy, & wise. It is negligent if you don't backup frequently. ---[1] Back up --[a] when you start & --[b] when you end any session (editing, practicing, rehearsing, noodling, etc.). You might screw up something during a session, & a 'beginning-of-session' backup will get you back to your, duh, 'beginning-of-session' setup. An 'end-of-session' backup will preserve your hard work & time spent, so that you'll be ready to go for your next session. Obviously, I have a Helix & PodGo. Richard
Another great video. Thanks for sharing these tips Steve!
Thank you for watching and commenting !
I set my 1/4 volume out to be controlled with the volume knob. That goes into my personal monitor(whatever it may be). The XLR is set to Mic and goes to FOH (the PA). That way I can adjust my stage volume without affecting the FOH mix. Sound guys like that.
Great one to add! I have a video on that exact topic. Maybe will include it in part 2 one day
All great tips - thanks, Steve!
Happy to help!
Working off snapshots: Use your amp model to get most of your gain. Then use as desired OD/distortion effect to color. Real world-analogue: I use an edge of breakup amp single amp and gain stage it with 3 or 4 OD boxes. In helix world: I use 4 snaps that increase the amps gain which gives me 4 pallets to paint from.
By the way: it’s im. pEd. ence.
Great tip! Changing amp parameters is the best feature in snapshots for sure. I don't have the time to pronounce the long E, sorry 😅
Totally agree about using running the Helix into FRFR's. Call me crazy, but I want my _effects_ unit to color the sound, and I want my amplifier to just _amplify_.
Interesting suggestion with splitting the delay and reverb into parallel paths. That surely will help keep your delays from getting muddy. I'll give that a shot.
I think you'll like it! I have a few vids where i do it step by step if you search about the channel
Great work Steve! I would add Low Cut as well. As someone said below, you have a bass player. I like to start around 70hz and adjust to taste. I love bass in my guitar tone when I'm playing alone, but only when I'm alone. In a band you need to give the bass player room so you might need to really cut the bass to like 100hz. Remember guitar is a MID RANGE instrument...mostly.
Thanks Bill!
Fantastic 10 tips brother SS. Nice hair BTW. Sadly havent touched my helix or guitar in a long time ;( need to get back to them. Miss your vids. Need to catch up. Keep rocking.
You can do it!
Thanks for another great video! I’ll be watching this again... 🙏🎶
Much appreciated!
How have I not seen this yet?! Great succinct advice on the big ticket pain points of the Helix. I need to explore that unity’ish volume concept between the patch, err... preset vs bypass. Thanks!
Idk John! Turn them notification bells on! Lol. Thanks man! The unity-ish keeps me out of trouble on tour going through various PAs
Good Studio headphones are a MUST. I got some Sennheiser HD560S and love.
Agreed!
On the ROD Go, I don't bother with OD/Dist blocks. I get the different gain and vol changes from the snapshots, and I get the extra squish and sustain for solos from a comp.
good tips!
Awesome video man thanks bro!
Thanks for watching Paul!
Yo Steve! Thanks man, I watched all your vids in the week leading up to buying my helix floor. I liked what you said about the reverb signal chain, I was wondering if you’d ever want to make a video about that.
Big brain on the dual cab thing. I managed to get some sounds that sound nearly identical to my Mark V
Hey! I do have some videos on if you browse around the channel. Check out the "epic solo sound" video
Hey Steve... great vid, as always. Personally, I used to use a Katana as a cabinet by sending the Helix into the Power Amp In. In case the Helix died on me, I could just use the Katana direct for presets. When the Line 6 Celestion debuted, I tried my Helix into the Power Amp In and loved it. The advantage is it has Line 6 customizable tones as a backup. No need to bring a backup Stomp or other floorboard. So, when using the Power Amp In, you're really bypassing the modeling features of the Katana/Celestion/ modeling amp and using the Helix, instead, and you have a backup just in case. Simple.
Hace poco adquirí el Helix! agradezco tus consejos maestro!
Recording tip - in addition to a totally wet and totally dry signal, also record an output without reverb/delay - that way if you have too much, the engineer can mix in your semi-dry signal to reduce it, rather than having to use your dry signal and reamp or put it through a sim. Simplest way to do this is to use an FX Send block in the right spot - this gets recorded from USB 5/6.
Thats exactly what I am doing with the parallel FX except I am the mixer as well. You can easily split the path and send the 2 to separate outputs to do what you are saying though! So much flexibility
Hi Steve ... Congrats on a great YT channel ... absolutely one of the best out there. Quality content, and complete absence of nonsense :). I have an idea for an Helix/Pod Go episode ... that I think could be cool .... Could you team up with i.e. you bass player in your band, and have a "make a great Bass tone" tutorial for the Pod Go ? There is mostly death metal tutorials for bass and Pod Go out there l.. so a proper Bass/Pod Go tutorial is sadly missing. Keep up the great work ... I watch every new video from you... Cheers Nils
Thanks Nils! I have been meaning to try something like that for awhile. Just a matter of coordinating and having the time!
Hi Steve, I bought a Helix LT a couple of months ago. I'm loving the tones I can get out of it, and have a long way to go exploring all the possibilities. I'm taking on board your recommendations. I've adopted it as the interface to my recording setup (Logic Pro X) and I understand how to get the DI guitar into a track for reamping if necessary. However, it seems a bit long winded to record two tracks (patched and DI) and then use Helix Native on the DI later as necessary. Have I got this wrong as the workflow? What is your workflow for this?
As an aside, it's a shame the Helix LT doesn't have an XLR input (I couldn't justify double the money for for the full Helix). Do you have a suggestion for how I could get my microphone into the Helix LT? I'm thinking I'll have to use my legacy interface and switch inputs in Logic for recording the mic input, which is not too big a deal but would be good if it could be avoided.
BTW regarding "impedance", it's similar to electrical resistance and when you connect the output of one circuit to the input of another it's best if the impedance is "matched" so that the second circuit works as expected. An analogy is connecting a water hose to a sprinkler system. You should match the water pressure of the hose to that required for the sprinkler system to work properly. To low and the sprinklers won't spray, too high and something might burst.
Hey Gary! You are correct in recording the 2 tracks independently. The point of it is more of a fallback in case your recorded tone doesnt suit the mix in the end. For the mic, you could just use an adapter , but will never be able to send phantom power. You can also just pick up a cheap used focusrite for your mic. Just won't be able to use them both as interfaces at the same time
Best practice, maybe. File management.
I create new presets for each song. A song may stay in the set for a few weeks. Then 6 months later, it gets put in the set again. I have a folder set up on my laptop that I export individual presets to. It makes it very simple to go the an empty preset slot, tap Import, go to the file , which is saved in alpha order, and bring It back in. This saves time trying to search through the Helix set lists trying to find an old preset. The preset in the pcfolder also has a date, so if I have a couple different versions of a song, I can see the newest.
Very useful tip!!! Thanks for sharing
Great video. For all my presets I use a gain block near the end of the chain with either a +3 or +6 DB boost hooked up for solo boost. Then I have one setlist with them all +3 and another identical setlist for +6 db. So depending on venue, I load up one setlist or the other. Small venues with smaller stage stuff like electric drums etc, less boost. Large venues with acoustic drums, bigger bass cabs etc....larger boost.
Anyhoo....let's say you have a small mixer with only 3-4 XLR that are all used for vocal mics so you have to run 1/4 inch into one of the remaining inputs......helix goes to MIC or LINE in this case?
1/4 would be either Instrument or Line. I would try both and see what sounds best. As long as you don't overload the board, either should do fine
so good!
Thanks mate!
Great tips! Thanks!
Thanks for checking it out!
Sweet video steve, excellent work
Glad you enjoyed it bro!
Steve, regarding headphones, you mentioned the Beyerdynamics DT770. These come in various impedances: 16, 32, 80, 250 ohm, maybe others. I know that you said that you were not familiar with various impedance variable for Helix input. However, do you have any thought or comment regarding the various impedances on the Beyerdynamics DT 770? Thanks, Richard
I have the 32 ohm. Was never able to compare but have always liked the results i get
@@SteveSterlacci Steve, thanks. 32 ohm is it. Richard
Steve can you point me to your reverb parallel path video please. Can’t seem to find it. Cheers
th-cam.com/video/oUrEpuJb4wA/w-d-xo.html
Going to look for Parallel FX video. Would also like to know how to add paths to a stock preset. Not just dragging a block down, but creating a new input path on an existing preset. For instance, I have a preset using my Variax mags, and I want to add a path that has a Variax 12 string along with it. Currently I go to templates, and recreate the whole preset. I know it can’t be that hard, nothing in Helix is.
Gain structure is a big for me. I develop a new preset for every song, after a while they just creep up in volume, because my habit it to add, rather than cut.
Yes I also need to find the parallel video too, check it out.
th-cam.com/video/oUrEpuJb4wA/w-d-xo.html
Hahaha Thanks for the laugh at 1:38 and the tips.
glad to help! LOL
I hope some of you find these useful:
1. Explore the sag control, and try adding a compressor somewhere in the chain to help simulate the subtle compression going on inside a tube amp circuit, and to simulate some sensation of “feedback-like” sustain (since getting real feedback with digital products is tough).
2. Try using 2 similar, yet different amp blocks and 2 dual-cab blocks for a thicker tone. Use paths 1 and 2 to accomplish this.
3. Try creating as realistic of a signal chain as possible. Maybe your modulations, delays and reverbs will sound better in an “effects loop” between the amp and cabinet blocks instead of after the cabinet?
4. Consider setting a control between 1-9 when building presets/snapshots at home instead of 0-10. That way when you’re at the gig, you always have a little wiggle room to add or remove ANYTHING that you might want for that particular performance. I normally do this for any level, gain, mix, and EQ control.
Great additions! Thank you
As always great information. I have the Helix a month and the powercab plus 112 a week or so. I got USB from Helix to computer and link cable from helix to powercab plus. I don't have usb from Powercab to computer I figured you don't need it connected with link line from helix. When I play youtube or music it goes thru the powercab. I would like to have my pa speakers getting the music. My PA speakers hooked to line 6 tone port. I probably have to change a setting on the computer.
I would check the speaker icon on your computer and make sure its selected to where you want it to go. Thank you for watching!
Im guilty of pluguing the podgo in the efectes return of my katana head, is the only way I have of using only the poweramp and my 4*12 Marshall cab. Not lucky enough to have an FRFR cab yet...
I'm just breaking chops! Whatever works for you and your situation is what's best
@@SteveSterlacci its just easy now for rehersal, the plan is using just the podgo for giggging when its finally aloud. Thanks for the videos! Keep up the good work.
Really great stuff! Funny because I use the Boss Katana but I plug the helix in the power amp input and then the out to the FOH, I can control my volume on the Katana if It needs more volume than the Helix is putting out, and not bothering the sound guy to turn up my monitors
Awesome use! I do a similar thing with the helix. I use xlr to house and 1/4inch to my stage sound (whatever back line or powercab if we are in the US ) with the big volume knob only controlling the stage volume and, like you, not touching the sound to FOH
on the katana thing, people are plugging into the power amp in and using it as a powered cab (essentially).
I get that! I just dont get buying a modeler for a modeler ya know? Lol also, something people get inconsistent results from
@@SteveSterlacci fair point. I've got a Katana Head that I run into a Marshall 412, and have used the fx return as a "power amp in" on it before, and it's pretty killer sounding honestly. Have to turn off your cabs/irs in the Helix though, or it sounds bad. I had the Katana before I got the Helix, and it's a great amp.
@@RyanWright That definitely makes sense! perfectly good application too. There is never a right or wrong way to get the tone you want!
Great tips Steve, never tried the impedance setting. Have to give that a look see when I get home. Is that also available on the STOMP?? P.S. Still waiting for the child info from you.
John
Hey John! Yes its available on all the HX devices. Write me again on FB so it will remind me to ask jess. Sorry man!
Great stuff!!
Glad you enjoyed it
Im new to helix so this is a beginner question , but when discussing IRs vs dual cabs , it is refering to a digital,setup in the helix right , not actual external cabs to play through ,
Correct!
First, it's "im-PEE-dence". "IM-puh-dence" is something that happens to old men. Second, the impedance basically the resistance to having the electrons moved back and forth. Basically, you're trying to send an oscillating signal (starting from your vibrating strings) through to the Helix. Imagine that, to do this, you have to shake a big rubber wall back and forth. Imagine that the Helix is on the other side of this wall, and all it can do is see how much the wall is moving. If the wall is really thin, then it's easy to shake it at high and low frequencies. If the wall is thick and heavy, then it becomes pretty difficult to shake it quickly (so your high frequencies start to get attenuated). Of course, there's a lot more going on than just that, but that's a way to conceptualize it that might make intuitive sense.
Impedance is one of my least favorite words to say. No idea why 🤣🤣🤣. Just think of all the time I save not hanging on that e! Thats actually a great real world example of what it does. Thank you for adding that in here
Probably mentioned in another one of Steve's vids, but: If you use the XLR out to the mixer board of a PA, MAKE SURE the phantom power is off on the Helix's channels. I don't think it will hurt the unit, but it makes everything sound like ass.
Sounding like ass is never good!!!
A very basic double DI (like Behringer's DI20) would be a nice thing to try in that case, to isolate the helix from the phantom power.
I think the new Boss Katana allows you to just use the power section, so that may be why you see those comments.
1) My number one thing for any modeler is don't be beholden to the settings you use on your amp. Like you said, try different things. I've created presets then deleted all the blocks and started over a number of times. I wish they would give you the option of using two mics on the same cab.
2) If you like the big stereo choruses like in the 80s, sometimes I'll use two - one mono in front of the amp mainly for the rate, then a stereo one after for the width. Gives a neat interaction between them.
3) If you have both Stomp and Helix, build your basic rig on Stomp, save the presets, then put them in Helix to add the icing stuff you need on that. At a minimum, all your amps and levels will be the same and save some work.
Great tips here! I use the dual cab feature with the same cab, 2 different mics and it only takes up 1 block if you haven't tried that
@@SteveSterlacci thanks, honestly, I hadn't tried the dual cab because I just assumed it would take two blocks. But you have to have the separate cab block from the amp, correct?
@@Scott__C yup. Use just amp and then just cab block, click the tab to dual and you can page right to see the second cab. Important to note thats they're gonna be panned hard right and left until you put a mono effect in there
@@SteveSterlacci Thanks! This opens up all those Jimmy Page mic techniques for tones.
@@Scott__C we can only try to get as close to the master !
Hi Steve! Great video, as always! IMPEDENCE: I've learned that the value is striclty related to how the guitar interact with Helix, I mean eg for each impedence level you can set on Helix, you can hear dinamic diffrences in just turning the GUITAR VOLUME POT... mainly usig some drien amp... Did you heve check?
Great info! I definitely agree with that
This.
High impedance = guitar volume pot cleans up when almost off, often around 1 or 2.
Low impedance = guitar volume pot cleans up really early, around 8 or 9.
I love watching videos where you create a patch from scratch. Taking a blank preset (I mean patch) and creating the patch one block at a time then setting up the snapshots for the patch. I have a question. Can you still turn blocks on and off like in stomp mode while in an individual snapshot? I cant find this out no matter where I look!!! Please answer if you know. Im going to go watch some more videos on making a patch on the hx stomp. I love hx stomp patches. Patch patch patch. Love patches!!! Lol!
Ugh im triggered 🤣😅. You can in the full helix floor. I'm not so sure with the stomp unless you use an external switch
@@SteveSterlacci Lol! Thanks man. Im sry I had to do the patch thing! Lol.
For the headphones you use, what ohm level do you recommend? I’ve seen/read that a higher impedance is better, is the 250ohm the way to go?
I use the 32 ohm and never had a problem
Gain staging for Powercab?
Use the output block to boost your signal to the PC, or is there a magic number that you can use as a guide to push the signal to the ideal level as you build your preset?
Basically I run my Helix to the PC and XLR out to the board so I can use the speaker models
You can use the output block, set helix to line level, bring up input gain on PC. Plenty of ways!
@@SteveSterlacci is there enough headroom on the output block to make the Powercab yellow?
@@iamshainefisher up to 20db. Definitely
Hi Steve, I see you linked to some studio headphones in your description. Which OHM is best for the Helix/editing in a DAW?
Mine are 32 ohm. No idea if there are practical differences in our application though
I'm a bit late to the Helix party, but the input impedance setting option seems a little odd. It is set "per preset", whereas I would have thought in would be a global setting like the guitar pad setting if it makes so much difference. Then, as per the pad setting, each preset can "decide" if the impedance setting would be global or a preset level tweak.
Should also note that the impedance setting is something you can alter in a snapshot, which could save you the need for an early EQ block if you are just looking to cut highs or make warmer across snapshots.
Regarding the Katana, I totally agree; however it is something I do at times for convenience when I am just wanting to practice playing, not trying to tone match etc. If the Katana is set to clean amp with no gain and no effects it is adequate as a home playback monitor. At this point I refer back to your first point about getting too bogged down in technicalities and not actually playing. If I didn't go the Katana route at times I think I would play less and maybe just stop due to lack of opportunity.
I'm assuming people a plugging into the "power amp in" of the Boss Katana
Definitely! I just dont get why lol I am just messing with ya'll. Whatever works for you is whats best!
A few reasons i can think of. It's quite light and offers 3 wattage settings: .5w, 50w, 100w. Changing wattage doesnt affect your tone. So great for practicing at home or gigging volumes. Second, bypassing the preamp (power amp in) gives you access to a pretty good FRFR experience. Third, if you take the time to create a few basic patches within the katana, if the helix fails at a gig, you have an easy fail safe. Last, it sounds surprisingly good for the price point and there's a robust online community. Really liking your channel. Just found it!
Great insight! Thank you for watching and adding to the convo! I appreciate you checking out the vid
Good video:-)
Thank you!!
So I can’t seem to locate the
“High Cut “ adjustment in global settings
Theres a global EQ, then page to the right
Steve, something odd I find is that if I remove the cabinet model from my preset, it sounds bad...guitar in to helix.....I am feeding the 1/4 outs to the effects return (power amp section) of an acoustic 100 W amp (loudbox 100) 2 way speaker combo....I haven't tried removing it on every patch but I have noticed it.....not sure why?
Because its meant to be a flatter response speaker. You need the cabinet modeling to sound like guitar cabinets. If you ran through a powered electric guitar cabinet, you could bypass the cabs. The acoustic 100 isn't a cabinet loaded with electric guitar speakers. It should sound bad without them 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@SteveSterlacci that' what a studio monitor is...a flat response powered speaker....so if I had studio monitors would it also sound bad without cabinet modelling in the helix?...because essentially, an acoustic combo is a relatively flat FRFR type speaker?
@@lchown1813 exactly !
What would you say is the best way to record in the studio with the Helix? I.e....xlr, 1/4, usb or mic amp?
I record usb direct at home. At studios, depends on what the engineer runs me through. I have been asked for both
So, how do you work with the Helix as the audio interface when you need to work with more than the Helix to record?
I mean, ASIO devices don't allow multiple devices to be connected at the same time (says the ASIO protocole), adding a software layer (MacOSX or Voicemeeter stuffs on windows) is always a cost in latency, and switching between ASIO devices is a massive PITA because it means the input/output of each tracks have to be re-routed for each device.
So I don't know how you do this in an efficient way?
Or maybe you only track guitar?
One track at a time
@@sjsphotog So you reconfigure the DAW each time you switch to another track?
IF you need more than just guitar or tracking 1 at a time, just use your regular interface with multiple inputs. Unless you can use one of the paths in Helix for it. That can work as well...
Hi Steve, I have the Pod Go regarding outputs can I apply the mic out to FOH and line to FRFR with the Pod Go ?
Hmmm i am not sure you can with PG, but it does have a separate "amp out" that can go to a speaker type of cab like the l6 powercab that has speaker models
@@SteveSterlacci Cheers I'll check it out 👍
I want to buy a Boss RC looper... What is the spec of the Helix's looper?
Not as advanced as the Boss. Its a basic looper. A lot of vids out there on it
I know this doesn't pertain to the video but is there a way to change the color on the tap tempo/tuner stomp switch? Ive tried everything and no luck.
I dont think its possible. Sorry!
Ok thank you. I have learned a lot from your videos Steve! I would have been lost without the help of these videos from you and a few other people. I just got my Helix floor 4 days ago and ive got it set up and stage ready. Thanks again!
@@26upclose glad to help!
Definitely “Presets” I need a snapshot lesson. Got the tones happening now on to snapshots.......Great Video
Thanks Carlos! I should put together a basic snapshots vid!
I made a patch for the song I Ran by The Flock of Seagulls for my 80's cover band but the delay trails in snapshots aren't spilling over. It makes this weird sound when I switch snapshots. Is it because the delay is drastically different on each snapshot.
Go into your global settings and look in preferences. There is one about the delays in snapshots that will fix it. Its slipping my brain right now
Salut Steve, ton expertise semble tres intéressante mais pense à tous ceux qui ne comprennent pas ta langue, mêts un peu plus d'images de réglages de l'Hélix pour que nous puissions en profiter , merci pour tes vidéos.
okay!
Presets!!!!!! Definitely presets!
I just have 3 days and I messed up. Any help
Need to be more specific here lol check out my mistakes to avoid video!
Hey Steve,do you ever get a preset tweaked to perfection,to where it’s the best sound you have ever gotten,only to come back to it the next day,and wonder what was I thinking??This sounds horrible...I do it all the time..
Absolutely! All the time...
Ha, he said input impotence lol
Think of all the time i saved NOT pronouncing that long E 🤣😅
And I’ll try to stop calling them Patches.
@@SteveSterlacci don't feel bad, I did the same thing in a recording engineering class in the 80's and was literally laughed at by the instructor and the entire class full of strangers. I still cringe just thinking about it. Needless to say I never made that mistake again...
ImPEEdence
That's true Steve you did save time and think about all the giggles you gave to everyone who knew how it is supposed to be pronounced ! Great video though !
New Helix owner agree makes no sense to plug into a modeling amp. I do have a Fender Cyber Deluxe for sale. I have considered plugging into that on a clean channel for now I have just used with headphones. Selling things to get the Powercab Plus. I do have some Powered PA speakers I can plug into for now.
the powered PA speakers will be nice! They do have a honkiness to them that always irritated me. The tweeters usually are the culprit. You can bypass it in the PC 112+
The impedance thing: I think that's why they use 500K pots on humbuckers and 250K on single coils.
for sure!
Impedance = Im PEE Dense. Impotence is something completely different LOL!
Man a lot of people are hung up on this.... At least i know ya'll are paying attention LOL
@@SteveSterlacci Sorry, Man, just couldn't resist :) Great video despite this minor/comical error. Keep them coming! :)
@@SteveSterlacci hahaha
hi Steve, love your Channel I've learned good things about the Helix from you. Just for your information you are mispronouncing the word impedance. the way you pronounce it is what happens when a guy can't perform in the bedroom. the E should have a long sound like when your mother says eat your peas. Impedance is the resistance of an electrical circuit. Thanks for all your help just thought you should know.
Thank you! Just imagine what i did saving all that time NOT pronouncing that long E 🤣😳
@@SteveSterlacci LOL, I'm trying not to. Keep up the good work.
@@galelongputt 🤣🤣🤣 thank you!
I’ll never say “Patch”! Lol. I will forever “preset”. And always use snapshots also. Best part in my opinion also brother!
😄😆😅 thanks Steve !
You give great advice and knowledge. Thank you bro!
1. Get your tone solid BEFORE adding IRs... you want the unique character of IRs to add, not fix.
2. EQ block after amp/cab. Cut those highs and lows.. adjust to the venue and room.
3. Don’t rely only on pedals to push the amp or generate drive, assign button or snapshot to multiple amp/cab/pedal setting simultaneously.
Interesting! Good insight here. Thanks for commenting
We're on 3 days until it arrives.
Cut the global eq at 80-100hz and 8000-10,000 hz
Great starting points!
Undoubtably
much appreciated!
Hi Steve, your expertise sounds very interesting but think of all those who do not understand your language, put some more pictures of Helix settings so that we can enjoy it, thank you for your videos.
I will try my best
Ha ha seid channel. Nice one tho bro
😎
Katana has a return for modelers to bypass the preamp and fx so that you’re just using the Katana’s power amp. Why? The Helix has more features, amps, and fx than Katana.
Interesting ! There are so many mixed reciews on Helix into one. I am curious what goes wrong when users don't like it 🤔
@@SteveSterlacci They’re probably plugging the Helix output directly into the amps’ input. Or they’re using an amps’ return (correct) but still trying to use cab sims in the Helix. For an amp, you have to set the Helix up properly and plug it into the amp correctly. Have to use the preamp only version of an amp model too.
1. back up your stuff religiously. Back up every day, before you start tweaking. 2. Find your "single source of truth" speaker/PA/headphones and base your sound in reference to that. 3. Do not rely on Global EQ, use Global EQ only as an emergency, to dial in some specific frequencies at a gig. (You've said that yourself) 3. Ear fatigue is real. What sounds amazing today, may sound like crap tomorrow............. now about trying things, if you connect your 4-cable method wrong, you can fry your helix and the amp.... if you connect it to "speaker out" accidentally.
Excellent additions! Thank you
Input impotence....is not the same as input impedance.
Impeeeeeeedance. Got it 😅🤣
Helix into another modelling amp???.....powercab not a modelling amp?
Powercab models speakers, not amps 😳
@@SteveSterlacci oh ok, gotcha. May have to check one out 👍🏼
Input impotence…LOL
Hard to get it in like that!!!
Wanna get rid of the racoons? Move out to the country. The racoons are all in town. Where the food is...
We enjoy their company!
Please, please...ask, not axe.
Ask and you shall receive
Tech help: Studio Headphones (Cans) amzn.to/3cmfZ5t that you recommend:
Which cans do you use/recommend in the video, that is, what impedance (sold by Ohms)?
The answer I assume includes where you are monitoring, from your DAW (amped?) or from the Helix itself? I haven't got my Helix yet, so forgive the naivety. When monitoring, where are you plugging the cans into and therefore which headphone Ohm option is best? Thanks...