Essential Information About the Line 6 Helix LT Multi-Effects Processor
- HX Pro Engine with dual SHARC processor handling for studio-level amp, cab, and effects simulations.
- Ultra-smooth editing: large color LCD screen + capacitive touch footswitches with RGB LED rings.
- Seamless sound creation thanks to Snapshots (up to 8 variations per preset).
- Stage and home studio ready: advanced routing up to 4 stereo signal paths and 8x8 USB audio interface with reamping.
Helix LT: The Helix DNA in a Pedalboard-Friendly Version
The Helix LT incorporates the HX modeling and processing architecture that made the Helix series renowned, in a more straightforward format optimized for guitarists and bassists seeking a complete amp and effects processor without compromising on sound quality. At the heart of the system: a simple-to-understand block logic, fast on-screen navigation, and foot controls designed to tweak settings mid-performance without breaking the flow.
Who Is It For, and Which Styles?
The Line 6 Helix LT is aimed both at musicians wanting to replace a full pedalboard and those looking to centralize stage and studio setups in one unit. Rock, pop, metal, funk, blues, ambient: the strength of the Helix LT lies in its ability to switch from a hi-fi clean sound to massive distortion, then to modulated and spatial textures, with consistent levels and ergonomics designed for live use. Whether rehearsing or performing, sound changes become instant and clear.
Key Features: Routing, Snapshots, IR, and Full Control
The HX cab section allows fine-tuning of virtual mic capture with various microphone types and adjustable placements, and you can load your own Impulse Responses (IR) to replicate your studio references. Capacitive footswitches provide quick block editing access, while the Command Center turns the Helix LT into a true setup brain (MIDI, amp switching, assignments). Add to this the built-in looper and USB interface for direct recording, reamping, and easy construction of complex presets.
Sound Signature
The Helix LT's signature is both modern and musical: detailed rendering, dynamic response to picking attacks, and a strong ability to "clean up" the tone at guitar volume depending on settings. HX simulations aim for a credible playing feel, with clear definition in palm mutes, mix-friendly mids, and effects that retain depth in stereo. Whether you seek a transparent base or a pronounced color, the signal chain is finely sculpted from preamp to cab simulation, including modulation, delay, and reverb effects.
Technical Specifications
Modeling, Memory, and Performance
- Amp models: 106
- Cabs: 83
- Effect models: 273
- Presets: 1,024 (8 setlists x 32 banks x 4 presets)
- Simultaneous processing blocks: Up to 32 (depending on DSP)
- Signal paths: Up to 4 stereo, in series or parallel
- Snapshots: 8 per preset
- Impulse Responses (IR): 128 of 1,024 or 2,048 points
- Variable impedance guitar input circuit
Display, Footswitches, and Modes
- Main screen (inches/cm): 6.2/16.5 (Color)
- Footswitches: 12 capacitive touch with RGB rings + expression pedal switch
- Footswitch operation modes: Stomp, Preset, Snapshot, Looper, editing with footswitches
- Footswitch action types: Latching, momentary
- Remote global control: Command Center
Looper
- Looper types: 6-switch, 1-switch, Shuffling
- Looper memory (full speed): 60 seconds mono / 30 seconds stereo
- Looper memory (half speed): 120 seconds mono / 60 seconds stereo
Audio Connectivity
- 6.35mm Jack inputs: Guitar, returns 1-2
- 6.35mm Jack outputs: Main left/right, sends 1-2
- XLR outputs: Main L/R
- Effects loops: 2x Send, 2x Return, can be chained in stereo
- Headphone: 6.35mm stereo jack
Digital Connectivity, MIDI, and USB
- Digital input: Variax VDI
- Digital output: S/PDIF, AES/EBU/L6 LINK
- MIDI: In, Out/Thru + USB
- USB audio interface: 8 inputs, 8 outputs with reamping
Construction and Dimensions
- Chassis: Stamped steel with ABS side panels
- Pedal: Stamped steel
- 6.35mm Jack inputs for expression pedals: Expression pedal 2 (shared with amp control outputs 1/2)
- Outputs for external amp control: 2 (1=tip, 2=ring, shared with expression pedal 2; globally selectable)
- Dimensions: 530 x 301 x 92 mm
- Weight: 5.4 kg
Included Accessories
- Power adapter: included
- Documentation: included
Power Consumption
- Required power supply: 9V DC
- Consumption: 3000 mA