Line 6 Helix Native User Manual
®
PILOT'S GUIDE
A guide to the features and functionality of the Line 6 Helix Native plug-in
Rev. H (v1.71) www.line6.com/manuals © 2018 Yamaha Guitar Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
Contents
Welcome to Helix Native Plug-in 3
Requirements and Installation 3
Purchasing the Software License 5
Authorizing your Computer 5
Workflow 7
About Plug-ins 7
What’s in it for Me? 7
Marketplace 7
Quick Start 8
Live Input Monitoring Through Helix Native Plug-in 10
Optimizing the Input Level 10
GUI Overview 11
Customizing the Helix Native Plug-in Window 11
My Account Menu 11
Preset Compatibility with Helix Devices 12
HX Edit Application 12
Input & Output Block Settings 12
Send, Return, FX Loop & Looper Blocks 13
Impulse Responses 13
Hardware Controller Assignments 13
Computer Processing Management 14
Presets Panel 15
Helix Native Factory Presets 15
Premium Marketplace Presets 15
Loading Presets 16
Importing and Exporting Helix Preset Files 16
Renaming, Reordering, Copying and Pasting Presets 17
Importing and Exporting Setlists 17
Importing and Exporting Helix Bundles 18
Impulses Panel 19
What are Impulse Responses? 19
Importing and Exporting Impulse Responses 19
Copying, Pasting, Renaming & Clearing IRs 20
Working in the Plug-in Editor 21
Navigating with the Next/Previous Preset Buttons 21
Using the Preset File Menu 22
Editing the Tempo 22
Working with Snapshots 24
The Snapshots Menu 24
Snapshots > Block Bypass 24
Snapshots > Parameter Control 25
The Signal Flow Window 27
Master Input & Output Level Controls 27
Adding, Clearing & Bypassing Blocks 27
Cutting, Copying & Pasting Blocks 28
Drag and Drop Blocks 29
Block Order and Stereo Imaging 29
Moving Blocks & Arranging the Signal Flow 29
Signal Routing Examples 30
The Edit Tab 33
Selecting Models 33
Availability of Models within the Model Browser 33
Editing Model Parameters 34
Note Sync 34
Editing Input, Output, Split & Merge Blocks 35
Editing Send, Return, FX Loop & Looper Blocks 35
The Automation/Controller Assign Tab 36
About Plug-in Parameter Automation 36
Controller Assignment for Automation 36
Editing Options for an Existing Automation Controller
Assignment 38
Removing or Replacing an Existing Automation
Controller Assignment 39
MIDI Bypass & Controller Assignment 41
Global Reserved MIDI CCs 42
Preferences 44
The Preferences Window 44
Marketplace & Account Options 46
Marketplace 46
The My Account Menu Options 47
Account Sign In / Sign Out 47
Authorize / Deauthorize your Computer 48
Model Lists 49
Eects Models 49
Amp Models 54
Speaker Cabinet Models 56
Microphone Models 57
Additional Resources 59
© 2018 Yamaha Guitar Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
Line 6, the Line 6 logo, Helix, HX Stomp, HX Eects, M13, M9, M5, DL4, DM4, MM4, FM4, Ampeg, SVT, and Portaex are trademarks or registered trademarks of Yamaha Guitar Group,
Inc. in the U.S. and/or other jurisdictions. Apple, Mac, OS X, macOS, and Logic Pro are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Windows is a registered
trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Cubase and VST are registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH. Avid and Pro
Tools are registered trademarks of Avid Technology, Inc.
Welcome to Helix Native Plug-in
Thank you for purchasing the Line 6® Helix® Native software, one of the most powerful
and exible native multi-processing audio plug-ins ever created. Not just for guitarists,
the Helix Native plug-in is also ideal for producers and engineers, sound designers,
lm/TV/game composers, electronic musicians, and anyone else seeking to craft new
and exciting sounds and special eects. This guide covers the features & functionality
of Helix Native plug-in v1.71.
The Helix Native plug-in truly is the same set of astounding amps, cabs & eects as
included within the ground-breaking Line 6 Helix® hardware multi-eects units, and
shares the same simple user interface and workow as the Line 6 HX Edit editor appli-
cation for Helix family devices.* Due to this design, all presets you create in Helix Native
plug-in are compatible and transferable to Helix hardware units via the HX Edit application, so you can take your presets from studio to the stage—and back again! We hope
it helps drive your search for tonal bliss and spawns years of creativity.
Requirements and Installation
Ready to jump in? The latest Helix Native installer for Mac & Windows® computers can
be downloaded anytime from line6.com/software. Once installed, a free 15-day trial is
available, allowing you to fully try the software on your system. After 15 days, you are
required to purchase and authorize the Helix Native plug-in to continue using it on your
system. Please check the requirements below to make sure your computer and DAW
software meet the minimum requirements.
System Requirements
To follow are the requirements to install and use the Helix Native software on your DAW
computer system. Note that Helix Native is a 64-bit plug-in and, therefore, requires that
your host DAW application supports 64-bit plug-ins.
Mac Computers:
• Mac OS X 10.10 and 10.11, and macOS 10.12 and later
• 64-bit AAX Native, Audio Units (AU), VST
• Supported sample rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, and 96kHz
Windows Computers:
• Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 (64-bit versions only)
• 64-bit AAX Native, VST (VST2 or VST3) host DAW software
• Supported sample rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, and 96kHz
Minimum Hardware Requirements
• Dual-Core 2.0GHz processor or faster
• 4GB of RAM
• 100MB of free disk space
• Internet connection required for license authorization, use of trial version, and
for the initial license synchronization of Marketplace premium assets. (The use
of premium presets and Impulse Responses purchased from Marketplace requires Helix Native version 1.70, or later)
®
(VST2 or VST3) host DAW software
The Helix Native plug-in
*NOTE: Presets are not compatible between the Line 6 HX devices (HX Stomp™
and HX Eects™) and Helix Native plug-in - please see “Preset Compatibility with
Helix Devices” on page 12.
3
Installing the Helix Native Plug-in
The rst step is to sign in to your Line 6 User Account. If you don't already have
one, just go ahead and create one now at line6.com/account - it's free! Then
follow the steps below.
NOTE: An Internet connection is required for the computer on which you want to
install and run the Helix Native trial version, as well as for license authorization &
deauthorization. License authorization on your computer is required for the use of
Helix Native plug-in and for the import & export of purchased Marketplace premium assets. See page 5.
NOTE: The use of premium presets and IRs from the Line 6 Marketplace requires
Helix Native version 1.70 (or later). Once Helix Native 1.70 has been installed, it is
necessary to uninstall Helix Native before installing any earlier Helix Native version
(see “Removing Helix Native Plug-in” on page 6).
1. Once signed in, you can head directly to the Line 6 Online Store and purchase
your Helix Native license (see “Purchasing the Software License” on page 5),
or proceed to the next step to install the Helix Native software on your computer
and optionally choose the 15-day free trial.
2. Proceed to the line6.com/software page and download the Helix Native installer
for your Mac or Windows system.
*NOTE: If your host DAW application supports VST3, it is recommended that
you do not also install the older VST2 format (VST2 is not selected by default).
The VST2 format is oered for users that have host DAW applications that do
not yet support VST3 plug-ins.
On Windows installation, if you do choose to install VST2, you'll be prompted
to enter a custom install location. Please take note of the VST2 install location
you choose since your host DAW may require that you manually dene this
VST2 directory within its Preferences to allow its VST2 scan to nd it.
4. Once the installation is complete, simply launch your host DAW application and
it will typically scan and nd the Line 6 Helix Native plug-in and list it within its
audio plug-in insert menus.
5. Insert the Helix Native plug-in on a track in your DAW project (see “Quick Start”
on page 8 for help, if needed). You'll initially see the license authorization
screen.
• If You Have Already Purchased a Helix Native License - You'll be prompted
to authorize the computer for this license - please skip ahead to “Authorizing
your Computer” on page 5.
• If You Have Not Yet Purchased a Helix Native License - You can either
choose to purchase now (see next section), or start a 15-day free trial. Once the
trial expires, it is necessary to purchase and then authorize the computer with
which you will be using Helix Native, or the plug-in will no longer be functional.
The Line 6 website's software downloads page
3. Once the download completes, exit your host DAW and all other applications,
then run the installer and follow its steps to complete the installation. If desired,
you can customize the installation to install only the format(s) you require (AAX,
AU, VST3 or VST2) for your particular host DAW application.*
Mac - Custom install options
(click the Customize button to access options)
Windows - Custom install options
Helix Native plug-in's purchase & trial mode options
NOTE: Once you've started the free trial version, you'll see your remaining trial
time displayed at the bottom right of the plug-in window.
Trial status indicator
You can purchase a Helix Native license online at any time during or after your trial
period by simply clicking on this trial status indicator, or going directly to the Line
6 Online Store at https://shop.line6.com/.
4
Purchasing the Software License
The Helix Native license is available for purchase from the Line 6 Store.* Just add Helix
Native to your shopping cart, checkout, and the license will be immediately deposited
into your Line 6 User Account. Alternatively, you can rst download and install the Helix
Native software and then choose to purchase or run it as a free trial rst (see “Install-
ing the Helix Native Plug-in” on page 4). Once you've purchased the Helix Native
license, you then use the plug-in's Authorization screen to authorize your computer to
run Helix Native, as covered in the following section.
*NOTE: By the time you read this, Helix Native may also be available from other
music retailers. If purchased from one of these vendors, your purchased Helix
Native license will be automatically deposited into your Line 6 account as part of
the process.
NOTE: If you are the registered owner of a Line 6 Helix, Helix Rack, Helix LT
device, or POD Farm software, you may qualify for a substantial discount on the
purchase of Helix Native! Please see the purchase options on the Line 6 Store.
Authorizing your Computer
Before you can use Helix Native, your computer on which you will be running the plugin must be authorized for your purchased Helix Native license. Authorization is accomplished within the plug-in's built-in Authorization screen, via an Internet connection
directly from your DAW computer. Once you've installed the Helix Native software,
launch your host DAW application, insert an instance of the Helix Native plug-in on a
track and launch the plug-in window. (Please see “Quick Start” on page 8 for help
on how to insert Helix Native plug-in within a host DAW.)
1. Sign in - Once launched, the Helix Native Authorization screen is displayed,
prompting you to sign in using your Line 6 User Account username and password.
(Note that your username is typically the name you created when creating the account and not your email address!)
NOTE: Once a Helix Native license is purchased and your computer is success-
fully authorized, you will no longer be prompted to sign in on each use. Being
actively signed in is then only necessary to deauthorize and authorize your computer, and for the initial synchronization of licenses for newly purchased Marketplace assets.
Your computer must be in the “authorized” state to be able to import and export
and utilize any premium assets purchased from the online Marketplace for use
within Helix Native. If you plan on purchasing Marketplace premium assets, it is
easiest just to remain signed in and authorized within Helix Native - this allows all
your assets fully functional, and their licenses to remain synced. Please also see
“Marketplace & Account Options” on page 46.
The initial Helix Native Authorization - Sign In Screen
• If You Have an Existing Line 6 Account but Forgot Your Login - Click the
Forgot password/username? option and follow the steps to reset your login
credentials.
• If You Don't Yet Have a Line 6 Account - Click the Create a Line 6 Account
link to create one. Or you can do that right now by going here - it's free!
2. Enter your username and password and click Sign In to proceed.
• If You Have Already Purchased a Helix Native License with this Line 6
Account - Upon signing in, select the Authorize Computer option and you
should see conrmation that your computer is now successfully authorized.*
You can now start using Helix Native!
• If You Have Not Yet Purchased a Helix Native License - You'll be informed
that no license was found on your Line 6 account, and you'll have the option to
buy it now, or start a free trial.
5
Selecting Deauthorize Computer from the My Account menu
*NOTE: Line 6 permits you to have your purchased or trial mode Helix Native
license authorized on a maximum of 4 of your own computers concurrently. To
move the license to a dierent computer, it is necessary to deauthorize on at least
one of these systems to free up an authorization to be used on another computer.
For further assistance, please contact Line 6 Support.
Helix Native plug-in's purchase & trial mode options
*NOTE: Be sure to Sign In using the same Line 6 Account you used when making
the Helix Native license purchase!
• To Purchase a Helix Native License - Click the Buy Helix Native button and
follow the steps on the secure Line 6 Online Store. Once complete, a Helix
Native license will be deposited into your Line 6 account. Your purchased
license will be found and Helix Native plug-in will authorize on your computer.
• To Use Helix Native in Trial Mode - Click the Start Free Trial button and
you'll be able to use the Helix Native plug-in without restriction on this computer for 15 days (an active Internet connection is required for the Trial Mode).
You may be prompted to sign in for each session when using Helix Native in
trial mode. After the trial period expires, Helix Native will no longer be functional
unless you choose to purchase the Helix Native license.
NOTE: Once you've started the free trial version, you'll see your trial time
remaining at the bottom right of the plug-in window. Click directly on this
indicator if you wish to purchase your Helix Native license.
Deauthorizing - Moving to Another Computer
Once you have purchased the plug-in license and authorized your computer (or if using
the free trial version), if you wish to run Helix Native plug-on a dierent computer, it may
be necessary that you rst deauthorize your current computer.*
To deauthorize, click on the My Account menu at the lower left of the plug-in window to
Sign In to your Line 6 account, then choose Deauthorize Computer from this menu.
(Also see page 48).
Removing Helix Native Plug-in
Should you ever desire to remove Helix Native from your computer system, rst quit
your host DAW application, then follow the instructions below.
NOTE: Before removing Helix Native, it is highly recommended to export your
presets (see “Importing and Exporting Helix Preset Files”) and IRs (see “Import-
ing and Exporting Impulse Responses”) to make sure you have backups of them.
Mac
To uninstall each plug-in format, move the following files to the Trash:
• AU plug-in: /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components/Helix Native.component
• VST2 plug-in: /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST/Line 6/Helix Native.vst
• VST3 plug-in: /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST/Line 6/Helix Native.vst3
• AAX plug-in: /Library/Application Support/Avid/Audio/Plug-Ins/Line 6/Helix
Native.aaxplugin (or, you can optionally drag the Helix Native.aaxplugin le
into the /Plug-Ins (Unused) folder)
Windows
To uninstall all plug-in formats:
• Choose Start > Control Panel (or, on Windows 10, choose Settings)
• Click Programs and Features (or, on Windows 10, choose System > Apps &
Features)
• Select Line 6 Helix Native Uninstaller from the list of installed applications
• Click Uninstall and follow the on-screen instructions to remove Helix Native
IMPORTANT! After removing Helix Native version 1.70 (or later), if you plan on
installing a Helix Native version earlier than 1.70, you will need to clear your
Preset and IR Libraries by using the Clear Preset Library and Clear IR Library
options within the Preferences window of the next-installed Helix Native plug-in
(see page 44).
6
Workflow
This guide contains details of the Helix Native plug-in's features and functionality. All
behaviors are the same on Mac and Windows (and for all plug-in formats - AAX, AU,
VST3 & VST2) unless otherwise noted. For the most part, the many host DAW applications on the market work very similarly in respect to how you insert and utilize eects
plug-ins. However, each host may have some unique features and settings you'll want
to take advantage of, so be sure to read through your host DAW application's user
documentation as well.
About Plug-ins
There are many types of “plug-ins” in the world of software. Plug-ins are relatively small
applications that can only run when loaded inside a compatible “host” software application, extending the capabilities of the host. In the world of DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) applications, audio plug-ins provide signal processing for your audio tracks
and/or live audio input.
A helpful analogy for audio plug-ins is to think of them as eects pedals. Eects pedals
change the tone of your instrument before the signal reaches your amplier. As with
pedals, rack eects units, or any other conventional piece of outboard gear, plug-ins
provide familiar knobs, sliders & buttons for tweaking their parameters. Plug-ins process your track signal similarly, but since they run in real-time in your DAW host software, they are non-destructive, allowing you to continue tweaking their settings all the
way up until you do your nal DAW project mix-down!
What’s in it for Me?
Helix Native is much more than a one-trick audio processing plug-in. It allows you to
combine a multitude of amps, speaker cabs and eects in practically any signal routing
fashion you can imagine. Its integrated preset librarian and IR manager also allow you
to easily customize, backup and manage your built-in library of tones. All is managed
within its simple, but powerful, user interface. Also note that Helix Native is not just
for guitar! The many included amp, preamp, delay, modulation, reverb, compressor,
distortion and other eects can be utilized on any types of recordings, for traditional or
other-worldly results.
If you own a Line 6 Helix® multi-eects device, then you eectively already know how to
use Helix Native plug-in! Helix Native utilizes a similar user interface as the current Line
6 HX Edit* editor application, therefore, tone creation and preset management tasks are
essentially the same. In fact, you can import Helix hardware-created presets and use
them within Helix Native - and vice-versa!
*NOTE: HX Edit is the newest editor application for Helix family devices that are
running rmware v2.20 or later, and it replaces the previous Helix application,
which is the recommended editor application to be used for Helix family devices
running rmware earlier than v2.20. For best performance, and to take advantage
of all the newest features & functionality, it is recommended that you always use
the latest available version of both the HX Edit application and Helix device rmware. Please also see “Preset Compatibility with Helix Devices” on page 12.
For those new to the Helix products family, although Helix Native plug-in may appear
complex at rst glance, it is designed in such a way that once you learn a few basic
concepts, you'll be able to construct both simple and complex tones at nearly the
speed of thought, with very little deep diving required. It's a great idea to try the included Factory & Template presets as a starting point, which you can customize as desired
to start building your own Helix tone collection.
NOTE: For even more details about individual Helix family models and capabili-
ties, please also read through the Helix hardware and software Owner's Manuals
- available from line6.com/support/manuals.
Marketplace
Now open for business is the new Marketplace online shop, where you'll nd 3rd-party
add-on assets that even further enhance the functionality of your Helix Native plug-in
(and Helix device, if you own one). Available now are professionally crafted presets and
IRs that can be instantly purchased and added to your Helix Native libraries. An Internet
connection is required for the computer where you'll be using Helix Native to initially
sync and authorize the licenses for the use of Marketplace premium assets. Please see
“Marketplace & Account Options” on page 46.
7
Quick Start
OK, we know you're eager to jump right in and give Helix Native a try on your tracks!
To follow are steps for adding an instance of Helix Native plug-in within a host DAW
application's audio track to get you up and running.
You will nd Helix Native within your host DAW application's plug-in insert menus along
with all other audio eects plug-ins. The initial steps in any host DAW application are
as follows.
1. Create a Session or Project at a supported sample rate (44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz
or 96kHz)
2. Create at least one audio track. Depending on your host DAW application, it
may oer options for “mono” or “stereo” type audio tracks, or just one common
audio track type that can record or import mono or stereo audio, depending
upon the hardware input type you choose for the track. Either way, Helix Native
plug-in can be added into the eects insert of your audio track.
3. Either record some unprocessed “dry” electric guitar into the audio track, or
import an existing recorded audio le into the track so you have something for
playback.
4. Now you can proceed to insert an instance of Helix Native on this track by selecting it from the host DAW track's eects insert menu. To follow we've provided examples on several popular host DAW applications.
2. In the Eects menu, choose Helix Native. Note that Cubase oers both mono
and stereo track types - you can simply choose the Helix Native plug-in and it
will conform to your Cubase track's input & output routing conguration.
3. You will then see the Helix Native plug-in appear in the Eects Insert window. Be
sure to turn your monitoring system to a low level, then double-click a factory
preset from the plug-in's Presets tab and hit Play to hear the results.
Cockos Reaper
Reaper is a full-featured host DAW available for both Mac and PC.
1. Select your audio track within your Reaper project. Within the track header at
the left (or within the Reaper Mixer window's channel strip for this track), click
on the FX track eects insert menu button.
Steinberg Cubase
The Cubase application is oered for both for Mac & PC. It supports the VST3 plug-in
format.
1. Select your audio track within the Cubase project. Within the track's Inspector
at the left of the track (or within the Cubase Mixer window's channel strip for this
track), click on one of the slot's menus in the Inserts section.
®
Inserting Helix Native plug-in on a Cubase Pro 9 audio track
Inserting Helix Native plug-in on a Reaper 5 audio track
2. In the FX window, choose the plug-in format type. On Mac, Reaper supports
both the AU (Audio Units) and VST3 plug-in formats, so you can choose either.
On PC, choose VST3. Select Line 6: Helix Native and click OK.
3. You will then see the Helix Native plug-in appear in the FX window. Be sure to
turn your monitoring system to a low level, then double click a Factory preset
from the plug-in's Presets tab and hit Play to hear the results.
NOTE: Some Mac host DAW applications allow you to use instances of plug-ins
of dierent format types (for example, in Reaper you can insert both VST and
AU type instances of Helix Native within the same project simultaneously). For
some actions, such as changes within the Helix Native Preset or IR Libraries and
Preference options, changed settings will not take eect immediately across
currently open Helix Native plug-in instances of dierent format types until you
close and re-open the plug-in windows.
8
Apple Logic Pro
Logic Pro is an extremely popular host DAW for Mac. It supports the Apple Audio Units
(AU) plug-in format.
1. Select your audio track within the Logic Pro project. Within the track's Inspector channel strip (or within the Logic Pro Mixer window's channel strip for this
track), click on the Audio FX track eects insert menu.
Inserting Helix Native plug-in on a Logic Pro X audio track
2. In the FX window, choose the Audio Units (AU) plug-in format type and select
Line 6 > Helix Native. Note that Logic Pro oers both mono and stereo track
types, therefore, you'll have dierent sub-options depending on your track's
type:
• If inserting on a mono track - You'll have the option to choose either Mono
(the plug-in's output is summed to mono) or Mono->Stereo (the plug-in's
output is stereo).
• If inserting on a stereo track - It is recommended to select the Stereo option
here, which provides stereo in/out processing. The Dual Mono option inserts
two mono instances of the plug-in (each accessed via the L and R buttons at
the top of the plug-in window). Each mono instance processes the left and
right audio channels of the stereo track discretely, but this can quickly utilize
a great deal of CPU power, so we don't recommend using it.
3. You will then see Helix Native appear within the plug-in window. Be sure to turn
your monitoring system to a low level, then double click a Factory preset from
the plug-in's Presets tab and hit Play to hear the results.
®
Avid
The Pro Tools host DAW application for is available for Mac & Windows. It supports the
Avid AAX plug-in format.
1. Select your audio track within your Pro Tools project. Within the track header at
2. In the plug-in menu, choose Helix Native. Note that Pro Tools oers both mono
3. You will then see the Helix Native plug-in appear in the Eects Insert window. Be
Once you insert an instance of Helix Native and load a preset, the preset's contents are
displayed within the Signal Flow Window, with model menus, parameters and automation control options available within the tabs of the Inspector Window.
Pro Tools
the left of the track (or within the Pro Tools Mixer window's channel strip for this
track), click on one of the slot's menus in the Inserts section.
Inserting Helix Native plug-in on a Pro Tools mono audio track
and stereo track types, therefore, you'll have dierent sub-options depending
on your track's type:
• If inserting on a mono track (as shown above) - You'll have the option to
choose either mono (the plug-in's output is summed to mono) or mono/
stereo (the plug-in's output is stereo, assuming the track is routed to a stereo
output).
• If inserting on a stereo track - Only a stereo option is oered here, which
provides stereo in/out processing. (Note that Pro Tools does oer a dual
mono option for some plug-ins, but this is not supported by Helix Native
plug-in.)
sure to turn your monitoring system to a low level, then double-click a Factory
preset from the plug-in's Presets tab and hit Play to hear the results.
TIP: Most host DAWs also allow you to insert plug-ins on Send, Bus or Aux track
types. Host DAWs dier slightly in their naming and features of these track types,
but their main purpose is to allow you to insert a single instance of your plug-in
and then route the output of any number of audio tracks into it to process them
using the same eect. This is the preferred way of processing multiple tracks
since, obviously, one instance of your plug-in utilizes less CPU power as compared to inserting individual instances on each audio track! Please refer to your
host DAW's documentation for details.
®
9
This allows you to load & customize any of the provided Factory presets, create your
own presets, congure automation controller assignments, manage presets & Impulse
Responses, as well as backup all your tones to your computer. Even better, all your
saved creations can be transferred between Helix Native plug-in and the HX Edit application, allowing them to also be used on a Helix hardware device as well (see “Preset
Compatibility with Helix Devices” on page 12 for details).
Live Input Monitoring Through Helix Native Plug-in
Another great benet of audio eects plug-ins is the ability to monitor your input signal
through the plug-in inserted on the track. This allows you to dial in the desired tone,
such as a customized set of amp, cab & eects within the instance of Helix Native, and
then hear your guitar (or other track input signal) processed by it in real-time. Once you
hit record, only your “dry” D.I. guitar signal is actually recorded into the track, which
provides the huge benet of being able to completely change the plug-in settings at any
time, right up until you do a nal mix-down of the DAW project!
Live Input Monitoring is a function of your host DAW application, and is typically ac-
complished by the following steps. Each host DAW is slightly dierent, so be sure to
consult your DAW application's documentation for details.
1. Congure your audio track's input options to receive input from whatever physi-
cal input your guitar (or desired instrument) is plugged into.
2. Insert Helix Native on the track, as described in the previous section.
3. Set the track's Record Arm button to “on” so that the track receives audio input.
4. Activate the track's “Input Monitoring” feature - this is typically a button found
near the Record Arm button. This feature allows the live track input to be fed
through the DAW track and all plug-ins inserted on the track.
About Latency
Since this input signal is being fed round-trip - into your audio interface, through the
DAW software and back out your audio interface's outputs - it is subject to some
amount of “latency.” Latency is the time between when you pluck a note on your guitar
and hear the resulting audio output through your monitoring system. Latency is a function of your audio interface, host DAW software and the recording capabilities of your
computer system. You can generally get the lowest latency by reducing your buer size
options for your audio interface driver within in your host DAW software's Preferences
- please see your DAW software’s documentation for details.
Optimizing the Input Level
The level of the input signal entering the Helix Native plug-in can aect the overall gain
and saturation of your tones, therefore, it is essential to “gain stage” accordingly. It is
important to note that most Helix Native Amp & Eect models are designed to receive
“Instrument” level input signals, much like plugging an electric guitar directly into the
same type of amp or eects pedal we modeled them after. To follow are several tips for
achieving the optimal signal level.
NOTE: Please also see “Master Input & Output Level Controls” on page 27.
• For the most accurate results when recording “dry” electric guitar (or bass), we
recommend that you use an audio interface with a “Hi-Z” or “Instrument” input.
• For monitoring your input signal level (or the playback level of any clips within
your track), reference the Master Input Level meter within the plug-in.
Record Arm Input Monitor
An audio track in Cubase congured with Record Arm & Input Monitoring active
NOTE: When utilizing your DAW track's “Input Monitoring” feature, you'll want to
be sure to disable any “Direct Monitoring” signal on your audio interface (many
interfaces oer an optional function that routes your input signal directly to its
outputs, without going through the DAW software). This way you'll hear only the
input signal fed through the Helix Native plug-in. See your audio interface's documentation for details.
5. Now when you strum your guitar, you should hear your signal through the track
with the Helix Native processing applied. You can hit the Record button and try
a pass at recording your performance. Upon playback you can then experiment
with tweaking the Helix Native settings even further!
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Optimal Input
Range Indicator
Multi-color
Input Meter
The Master Input Level controls
• The Optimal Input Range Indicator provides a guideline for where you should
keep your input level, between -36 dB to -12 dB.
• The Multi-color Input Meter also provides guidance - basically, strive for keep-
ing your input level in the green and yellow, and avoid the blue (signal is too low)
and red (signal is too high).
Master Input
Level Slider
• If your audio interface oers input level adjustment, it is typically best to adjust
it there to keep the recording level entering the plug-in within this optimal range.
If needed, you can adjust the plug-in Master Input Level Slider to ne-tune the
level. The Master Input and Output Level sliders are global per plug-in instance
and, therefore, their values are not saved per preset.
• Guitars with active pickups may have a hotter output than traditional passive
pickups. If your guitar utilizes active or especially high output pickups, set your
audio interface or preamp's input “pad” to on, if available.
• Clipping, as indicated when the red Clip Indicator lights up, should always be
avoided on both the plug-in's input and output meters.
Clip Indicator
The Input meter showing a clipped input level
GUI Overview
The Helix Native plug-in has a very simple, easy-to-use interface which functions as
both a Librarian for your Helix Preset and Impulse Response les and as an Editor to
create and customize your tones.
Presets
Tab
Impulses
Tab
Show/Hide
Librarian
Signal Flow
Window
The Signal Flow Window - Where you can add and move amps & eects blocks,
and customize your complete signal path routing - see “The Signal Flow Window”
on page 27.
The Inspector Window - Where you can choose from the huge selection of models, edit their parameters, and create and manage parameter automation control
- see the Inspector Window chapters on page 33 and page 36.
Customizing the Helix Native Plug-in Window
Resize the Plug-in Window - The plug-in's window is resizable to allow you adjust
the window size that best suits your screen and workow. Simply click and drag
using the “grab handle” at the bottom right of the plug-in window to reduce or increase the window size independently for any instance of the Helix Native.
Drag the “grab handle” on the bottom right of the plug-in window for resizing
Show or Hide the Librarian Panel - It is also possible to show or hide the Presets/
Impulses Librarian panel independently for each instance of the plug-in, by clicking
on the toggle button at the top left of the Signal Flow window.
LIBRARIAN
Edit
Tab
Navigation within the plug-in's user interface is divided into three main windows:
The Librarian Window - For managing presets and impulse response (IR) les -
see “Presets Panel” on page 15 and “Impulses Panel” on page 19.
Inspector
Window
Automation/Controller
Assign Tab
EDITOR
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The Librarian Panel's Show/Hide Button
My Account Menu
At the bottom left of the plug-in window, click on the “My Account” menu to access the
plug-in Preferences, Marketplace and account options - please see page 44.
Preset Compatibility with Helix Devices
Helix preset, setlist and bundle les are compatible and transferable between the Helix
Native and Helix family devices (Helix, Helix Rack and Helix LT).* Presets, setlists and
bundles are imported to, and exported from, these Helix hardware devices on your
computer by the use of the HX Edit editor/librarian software. This compatibility is the
foundation of the Line 6 “Studio to Stage” concept, allowing you to load and transfer
your tones between Helix Native plug-in and Helix hardware!
*NOTE: Presets and setlists exported from Line 6 HX type (HX Stomp or HX
Eects) devices are not compatible with the Helix Native plug-in or Helix devices.
Likewise, presets and setlists exported from Helix Native or Helix devices are not
able to be imported into HX type devices. However, it is possible to Copy and Paste
or drag and drop individual blocks, along with their current settings, between HX Edit
with an HX device and Helix Native. See the following “Block Copy and Paste” section.
HX Edit Application
Line 6 HX Edit is the editor/librarian software for use with Helix hardware devices that
are running rmware version 2.20 or later. For best performance, it is recommended to
use the latest version of both the HX Edit application and Helix rmware. If you own a
Helix that is still running a rmware earlier than v2.20, you'll need to update the Helix
device's rmware to the v2.20 rmware or later, or use the previous Helix application
with your Helix device.
For optimal preset compatibility between Helix Native plug-in and Helix hardware, you
should always be sure to use matching versions of the Helix Native, Helix rmware, and
the HX Edit (or Helix) application. The easiest (and recommended) way to be sure your
presets are compatible is to update to all the latest versions available for Helix Native,
Helix rmware and HX Edit. All Line 6 software is available for download from line6.com/
software.
HX Edit Backup Files
The HX Edit application includes a feature that creates Helix Backup (.hxb) les that can
be utilized to restore a Helix device's presets, IRs and global settings. Helix Native does
not currently include this feature and, therefore, does not support creating or opening
HX Edit Helix Backup les.
TIP: If you own a Helix device, be sure to check the “Helix compatible” version
number (found in the Helix Native Preferences' About box - see page 45) to
determine the recommended Helix rmware version you should use for maximum
preset compatibility.
Presets, setlists and bundles can simply be imported into the Helix Native or the HX
Edit app using their Import functions, as covered in the following sections. It is also
possible to drag and drop presets directly between the applications' Preset panels.
Once imported into the HX Edit application, presets are immediately loaded onto your
connected Helix device, replacing the presets within the device's internal memory.
When importing presets into the Helix Native Presets Library, they are then available for
all instances of the plug-in.
NOTE: As with all plug-ins, the specic settings you last used within your existing
plug-in instances are retained as part of your host DAW project and not aected
unless you manually load a dierent preset into the plug-in's Signal Flow. Instanc-
es of the Helix Native plug-in that already exist in previous host DAW projects will
also reference the current plug-in Presets Library lists when you load the DAW
project again.
Due to the obvious dierences of Helix hardware devices having numerous physical
inputs and outputs, there are some settings, block type & controller support variances
when sharing presets between the Helix Native and Helix hardware. These dierences
are detailed in the following sections.
Block Copy and Paste
Using the Copy and Paste Block commands, you can copy/paste any individual block
between presets within any instance of Helix Native, as well as between Helix Native
and HX Edit (with any Helix or HX type device connected). It is also possible to drag
and drop any processing block to move it within the current preset, or to copy it into
any other Helix Native plug-in or HX Edit device window. Restrictions apply when copying and pasting some block types, depending on the Helix hardware in use and the
paste destination - please see “Cutting, Copying & Pasting Blocks” on page 28.
Marketplace Assets
All premium presets and IRs purchased from the online Line 6 Marketplace that are offered for Helix (Floor, Rack and LT) devices are fully compatible with Helix Native plug-in
(version Helix Native 1.70 and later is required). Please see “Marketplace & Account
Options” on page 46.
Input & Output Block Settings
When Importing a Helix Hardware-exported Preset into Helix Native - All Input and
Output blocks currently set to physical Inputs and Outputs (other than “None”) will default to the “Host” setting within the plug-in.
When Importing a Helix Native-exported Preset into Helix Hardware - All Input and
Output blocks currently set to “Host” will default to the “Multi” setting within the Helix
hardware. Any Input block set to “None” will remain as set to “None” within the hardware.
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Send, Return, FX Loop & Looper Blocks
When Importing a Helix Hardware-exported Preset into Helix Native - These block
types are only functional within Helix hardware and, therefore, their parameters are not
editable. These blocks have no routing functionality within Helix Native.
NOTE: If an existing Send, Return or FX Loop block is toggled as “active” via its
Bypass switch, it can reduce or fully mute the path's audio signal, depending on
the block's Mix or Dry Thru parameter settings. To ensure these block types are
not aecting the plug-in's signal path, simply toggle the block to bypassed.
If you load a preset that happens to include any of these types of blocks, you'll see
them appear within the Signal Flow with an indicator to remind you they are “unsupported” within the plug-in.*
An FX Loop (Snd/Rtn) and Looper (Loop) block within a Helix hardware-exported preset
*NOTE: Within the Preferences - General window, you can enable the option for
Helix Native to automatically strip out all unsupported block types from presets
whenever importing Helix presets, setlists or bundles (see page 44). However,
regardless of this Preference setting, it is still possible to Paste one of these unsupported blocks into Helix Native from the HX Edit app, if it remains as the most
recently copied item in your clipboard.
Impulse Responses
Impulse Response (IR) les are able to be utilized within IR blocks of Helix Native just
as they are within Helix devices. You can simply import IRs using the Impulses panel to
build your Library of IRs that are available to Helix Native. Helix hardware retains its own
separate IR Library (managed by using the HX Edit application).
If you are to be sharing Helix presets between Helix Native and Helix devices, it is a
good idea to build and maintain your IR Libraries similarly on each to allow the same IR
les to be utilized for your presets that include them. Please see “Impulses Panel” on
page 19 for details.
Hardware Controller Assignments
Helix Floor, Rack & LT devices and the HX Edit editor application oer the ability to
create several types of “controller assignments” to provide remote control of Helix parameters via Helix footswitches, expression pedals and external MIDI gear. These controller assignments are saved and retained within Helix hardware-exported presets. If
you happen to open a preset within Helix Native that includes them, you'll see these
controller assignments represented by their parameter values displayed in white and in
brackets.
Helix hardware
assignment indicator
When you select one of these unsupported blocks within the Signal Flow, you'll see a
reminder within the Edit tab to alert you it is non-functional, and see that its parameters
are not editable (dimmed). However, these blocks and their original settings remain fully
functional if and when the preset is exported from Helix Native and imported back into
HX Edit.
An “unsupported” block's parameters within the Helix Native Edit tab
NOTE: Note that it is not possible to add Send, Return, FX Loop or Looper type
blocks to your tone from the Helix Native model menu - the Send/Return and
Looper menu categories of the Edit tab's Model Browser remain non-selectable.
Indicator that a parameter includes a controller assignment
Helix hardware controller assignments oer no functionality within Helix Native plug-in,
and any parameter itself that includes an assignment remains adjustable and functional
within Helix Native. MIDI controller assignments created within HX Edit are supported
and functional within Helix Native. These controller assignments also continue to be
retained in the preset, even once exported from Helix Native, allowing them to still function if imported back into a Helix device again. Please see the Helix Owner's Manuals.
TIP: Note that, within Helix Native, you can utilize your host DAW application parameter automation functionality to control the bypass of blocks and parameter
values in real-time! Please see page 36.
Snapshots & Snapshot Assignments
Snapshots & snapshot assignments created and saved within a Helix device's preset
are compatible when the preset is loaded in the Helix Native plug-in, and vice-versa.
However, there are a few specic functions that can exist within Helix hardware-created
presets that Helix Native does not support, as described below.
• Helix hardware Command Center message data (see previous section).
• Line 6 Variax instrument tunings and other Variax parameter settings.
13
These types of data within snapshots are essentially ignored by Helix Native, with all
other supported Snapshot settings recalled just as on Helix hardware. Both supported
and non-supported snapshot data are retained within your Helix Native-exported presets when loaded on Helix hardware again. Please also see “Working with Snapshots”
on page 24.
NOTE: The current Snapshot, along with all its settings, can be copied and pasted
using the Copy Snapshot and Paste Snapshot commands either within the current Helix Native preset or within the current HX Edit preset, but not between the
Helix Native plug-in HX Edit app and. Also see “Copying, Pasting & Renaming
Snapshots” on page 26.
Bypass Assignments
A common practice within Helix devices is to congure “bypass assignments” where
the bypass parameter of blocks are then toggled O/On via the device's footswitch-
es, or optionally by expression pedals or external MIDI commands. Currently, MIDI
bypass assignments are supported in Helix Native (see next section), but not other
types of bypass assignments that can be created within Helix hardware. If you happen
to change the bypass state of block that includes a Helix hardware bypass assignment
and export the preset, you will overwrite the saved state of the assignment when the
preset is imported back into a Helix device.
Controller Assignments
Helix device users can create “controller assignments” to map the control of parameters
(such as a wah or volume, a delay's Mix parameter, etc.) to a Helix expression pedal,
footswitch, or external MIDI controller device. Currently, MIDI In controller assignments
are supported in Helix Native plug-in (see next section), but not other types of controller
assignments that can be created within Helix hardware.* If you edit a parameter that
includes a Helix hardware controller assignment, and then export the preset from Helix
Native, your last-used parameter value is the same value the parameter will default to
upon import within a Helix device.
*NOTE: When importing a preset into Helix Native which includes HX Edit-saved
hardware controller assignments, you'll see the assigned parameter sliders within
Helix Native display their values in white brackets indicating the assignments.
Even though these hardware controller assignments are not supported within
Helix Native, they are preserved with the preset (as well as with the respective,
individual blocks for copy/paste). Therefore, these assignments will still be intact
if you import the preset back into HX Edit.
MIDI In Bypass & Controller Assignments
Helix device users can create MIDI In bypass assignments to remotely toggle the bypass
of most block types, and create MIDI In controller assignments to remotely control most
Helix parameters, via external MIDI controller devices or MIDI software. These MIDI In
assignments are also supported by Helix Native. Likewise, MIDI In bypass and controller assignments created in Helix Native presets are also supported when the preset is
imported into Helix devices via the HX Edit application. See page 41.
Command Center Assignments
The Command Center in Helix devices provides the ability to assign the transmission
of MIDI/CV/Amp switching and other commands to Helix hardware switches and expression pedals. Helix Native does not support the transmission of these types of commands and, therefore, essentially just ignores any Command Center assignments that
may exist within an imported Helix preset. Existing Command Center data is retained
when exporting a preset from Helix Native.
Automation Controller Assignments
Since parameter automation is a functionality specic to DAW hosts and software plug-
ins, all automation controller assignments saved within a Helix Native-exported preset
will be ignored when the preset is loaded on Helix hardware devices. However, these
assignments are retained if and when the preset is exported from a Helix device. See
“Controller Assignment for Automation” on page 36.
Customized Hardware Footswitch Labels and LED
Colors
Helix devices include the ability to customize the labels displayed on their “scribble
strips” (on Helix oor and Helix Control devices) and on-screen footswitch labels (on
Helix LT devices), as well as to customize the color displayed for their footswitch LED
lights. This data is stored within a Helix hardware-exported preset, but is not utilized by
the plug-in, nor altered when importing or exporting the preset with Helix Native.
TIP: Remember, you can create an unlimited collection of backups of your presets,
setlists and bundles from both Helix Native plug-in and the HX Edit application
using their Export functions. It is good advice to follow the golden rule, “backup
early and often” so that you always have copies of your favorite Helix tones!
Computer Processing Management
In order to maintain preset compatibility with Helix family devices, Helix Native incorporates similar processing management as the DSP management system utilized on
Helix hardware. That is, Path 1 and Path 2 within an instance of the plug-in each have
a maximum computer processing limit. Once this limit is approached on either path,
the Edit tab's Model Browser options become dimmed if the specic models require an
amount of processing power that would surpass maximum limit. (Please see “Availabil-
ity of Models within the Model Browser” on page 33.) This way, any preset created
and exported from the Helix Native is ensured to be able to be imported and utilized on
Helix hardware devices.
TIP: Note that if you just can't manage to cram in all the eects you want in an
instance of the Helix Native plug-in, you can always insert an additional instance of
the plug-in! Please also see “Tips to Optimize Processing Power Usage” on page
32.
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Presets Panel
The Librarian's Presets Panel provides functionality for loading, importing & exporting Helix presets & setlists to manage the plug-in's Presets Library. The contents of the
Presets Library is stored commonly for Helix Native, and changes you make to this
Library aect what presets appear within all instances of the Helix Native plug-in on
the computer.
Setlist Commands - Click on any command in this row to perform the selected
action on the current Setlist.
Setlist Menu - Click here to display one of the 8 Setlists of the Presets Library.
right-click directly on the current Setlist's name here to rename it.
NOTE: It is also possible to import and export all setlists, including all your presets
and their last-saved settings by using the Bundle options found in the Preferences
window. Please see “General Screen” on page 44.
Presets Tab
Setlist Commands
Setlist Menu
Preset Commands
Last Loaded Preset
Selected Preset
The Presets panel
Presets Tab - Click on this tab to display and place focus on the Presets panel.
Preset Commands - Click on any command in this row to perform its action on
the currently selected Preset(s).
Last Loaded Preset - When you double-click on any preset in the panel, it loads
it into the Signal Flow as the current tone in use by the plug-in. The white vertical
line at the left of the preset slot indicates that this is the last preset that was loaded.
NOTE: It is important to note that, once a preset is loaded as the current tone,
changes to the current tone does not aect the preset within the Presets Library panel unless you specically Save the tone to the Preset Library - see
“Using the Preset File Menu” on page 22.
Selected Preset - Click once on any preset in the panel to select it, and you'll see
it appear highlighted, as shown above. The selected preset is the one that is acted
upon when choosing any Preset Command. Note that when you load a preset, it
remains the selected preset until you click on any other preset within the panel. It is
also possible to select multiple presets to perform actions on them simultaneously,
as covered in the following sections.
Helix Native Factory Presets
The very rst time you insert an instance of the Helix Native plug-in after installation,
you'll see a pop-up notice informing you that the set of Factory Presets will be auto-
matically imported. You'll then see the rst two setlists, titled FACTORY 1 and FACTO-
RY 2, and the last setlist, titled TEMPLATES/OTHER, all of which become populated
with numerous Factory Presets to provide an easy start for your own sonic creations!
Most presets within the FACTORY 1 & 2 setlists are intended for guitar, and you'll also
see quite a few intended for bass (cleverly titled starting with “BAS”). If you're wanting
to utilize Helix Native for processing vocals, or for discrete left/right channel input and
output eects for a stereo Aux or Bus track within your DAW project, look in the TEMPLATES/OTHER setlist for the “VOX” and “AUX” titled presets. Please also be sure to
read through “The Signal Flow Window” on page 27 to see the many capabilities for
mono, stereo, serial and parallel signal routing.
TIP: If you want a clean start, we've also provided the options Clear Preset Li-
brary (to clear out all data from all your plug-in's current Library presets) and Restore Factory Setlists (to restore the original Helix Native Factory Setlists) - see
“General Screen” on page 44.
Premium Marketplace Presets
If you've purchased and downloaded premium presets from the Marketplace online
shop, you must initially have Helix Native signed in, and your computer authorized,
to allow the import or export of these presets (as well as for import and export of any
setlists or bundles that include premium presets).*
NOTE: The authorization required for your Helix Native license also covers the use
of any Marketplace premium assets on this computer - both within Helix Native (version 1.70, or later) and the Line 6 HX Edit (version 2.70, or later) application. Please
see “Authorizing your Computer” on page 5.
15
Premium Marketplace presets are otherwise able to be utilized just like any other Helix
presets. When imported, these premium Marketplace presets are indicated by a golden
guitar pick “badge” to their right within the Presets panel. Please also see “Marketplace
& Account Options” on page 46.
Premium Marketplace presets are indicated with a golden guitar pick badge
Loading Presets
Double-click on the desired preset from the Presets panel list to load it into the Signal
Flow window as the current tone, with all blocks' parameters accessible within the Edit
tab. You can also use the Next/Previous preset buttons at the top of the Signal Flow
window (see “Navigating with the Next/Previous Preset Buttons” on page 21).
Alternatively, if you wish to load a preset that exists as a saved Helix preset (.hlx) le on
your computer, you can do one of the following:
• Use the preset Import command button and select the desired preset from
your computer to import it into the plug-in's Preset Library, then double-click
the imported preset within the Presets list to load it as the current tone.
• Use the Open from Disk option from the menu at the top of the Signal Flow
window. This loads the preset directly into the plug-in's Signal Flow as the current tone (without importing it into the Preset Library).
NOTE: Use the Save To Disk or Save To Library command within the le menu
at the top of the signal ow if you wish to retain any changes you've made to the
current tone to create it as a preset that can be utilized by other Helix Native instances. Please see “Using the Preset File Menu” on page 22.
The Default Preset
Whatever preset resides within location 01A of the rst Setlist becomes the designated Default Preset. You'll see that this preset is the one automatically loaded into the
Signal Flow every time you create a new instance of the plug-in. This allows you to set
any preset you like as the Default Preset for Helix Native - by simply importing or saving
it to this Preset Library location!
All settings that you customize and save to this library Default Preset are recalled when
loaded, including automation assignments, routing conguration, block bypass states,
etc.
Importing and Exporting Helix Preset Files
Helix presets are able to be exported from the Presets Library to be copied and saved
to your computer as individual (.hlx) les, allowing you to create a limitless collection of
tones that can be imported back into your Presets Library at any time.
To Import a Helix Preset File - Click once to select the desired preset location
within the Presets panel and click the Import preset command.* A brief dialog will
warn you that importing will overwrite any preset information in the selected
Library location. Click Yes to continue. A system window will display a le brows-
er for selecting the preset you wish to import. The imported preset will then remain
available within the built-in Presets Library for all instances of the plug-in.
NOTE: Importing a preset into the Preset Library does not also automatically
load the preset into the Signal Flow of the plug-in. If you wish to load the imported preset as the current tone, double-click on the preset within the library
location.
To Export a Helix Preset - Click once to select the desired preset within the Presets panel, then click the preset Export command. This creates a copy of the preset from the Helix Native plug-in's Presets Library and saves it to your computer as
a Helix preset (.hlx) le. The familiar Mac or Windows computer's Save As window
is presented, in which you can edit the lename and choose a destination folder.
By default, all .hlx les are exported to:
• Mac - /Documents/Line 6/Tones/Helix folder
• PC - \My Documents\Line 6\Tones\Helix folder
*NOTE: Clicking once on a preset within the Presets panel selects the Library
preset, not to be confused with loading the preset into the Signal Flow as the
current tone (double-clicking on a preset loads the preset). The preset that
is selected (highlighted) within the Presets panel allows you to then execute
commands upon it (Export, Reorder, Copy, etc. - see next section).
TIP: Using the Preset panel's Export command makes a copy of the selected library
preset in its last-saved state and saves it to your hard drive. If you wish to save the
tone currently in use within the plug-in's Signal Flow, with all edited settings intact,
use the File menu - Save options (see “Using the Preset File Menu” on page 22).
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Renaming, Reordering, Copying and Pasting Presets
These functions allow you to customize your presets within the Presets panel. Choose
Rename, Copy or Paste from the row of Preset command buttons and it will act upon
the selected (highlighted) preset location. Or, optionally right-click on an individual
preset location within the panel to open a context menu with these same commands.
For most commands, it is also possible to multi-select a number of presets by using
Shift+click to select a contiguous set of presets, or Cmd+click (Mac) or Ctrl+click (Windows) to select a non-contiguous set.
Importing and Exporting Setlists
The Presets panel allows you to Export to save a copy of the currently loaded setlist, in-
cluding all its presets, to a Helix setlist le (.hls). This is very handy for making a backup
of all presets within a setlist, so that a group of presets can easily be imported back into
the plug-in's Library in a single action.
NOTE: Copy and Paste of presets and IRs between Helix Native and HX Edit is not
currently supported. However, you can use drag and drop for these actions! See
the next section.
Drag and Drop Presets
Drag and drop any preset (or multi-selected presets) directly to or from the plug-in's
Presets panel to perform the following actions.
• Export - Drag any preset from the plug-in's Presets panel into any folder on
your computer to export a copy of the .hlx Helix preset le and save it there.
• Import - Drag any saved .hlx Helix preset le from your computer's hard drive
and drop it directly into a slot within the plug-in's Presets panel to import it into
the Presets Library. (Note that this does not automatically load the preset as the
current tone in the plug-in - Double-click the preset slot you imported into to
load the preset.)
• Load - Drag any saved .hlx Helix preset le from your computer's hard drive
and drop it within the plug-in's Signal Flow window to load it.
NOTE: This “Load” action loads the preset as the one used within this
instance of the plug-in, but it does not import the preset into the plug-in's
Presets Library. Optionally, you can add this loaded preset by using the
File > Save to Library option within the Signal Flow window - see “Using
the Preset File Menu” on page 22.
• Reorder - Drag any preset up or down and drop it into another location within
the Presets panel to reorder the presets within the current setlist. When the
preset is dropped in the new location, the surrounding presets are shifted
upward or downward accordingly.
• Transfer to or from Helix Hardware (for Helix/HX Edit application owners) -
With a Helix device connected, you can drag a preset directly from Helix Native
plug-in's Presets panel and drop directly into the Presets panel of the HX Edit
application to import the preset into your Helix device. Likewise, you can drag
a preset from the HX Edit app into Helix Native to import your device's library
presets into the plug-in (also see “Preset Compatibility with Helix Devices” on
page 12).
To Import a Setlist - Click Import Setlist. This will prompt you to ensure that you
wish to replace the currently selected setlist and its presets within the plug-in's
Presets Library. Continue through the “Open” window to select the setlist you wish
to import.
To Export a Setlist - Click the Export Setlist command to save a copy the current
setlist as a Helix setlist le on your hard drive. By default, setlists are exported to:
• Mac - /Documents/Line 6/Tones/Helix/Setlists folder
• PC - \My Documents\Line 6\Tones\Helix\Setlists folder
Changing Setlists
To change the active setlist shown within the Presets panel, click on the Setlist menu
and choose from among the 8 setlists stored within the plug-in's Library. The currentlyselected setlist will be indicated with an “open folder” icon in the menu.
Choosing a new setlist from the setlist menu
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Renaming Setlists
To rename the current setlist, right-click on the current setlist's name within the Setlist
menu and enter your new title.
To Export a Bundle - Click the Export Bundle button found in the Preferences
> General window to create a copy of the plug-in's complete Presets Library as
a Helix bundle (.hlb) le, stored on your computer. By default, all bundle les are
exported to:
• Mac - /Documents/Line 6/Tones/Helix/Bundles folder
• PC - \My Documents\Line 6\Tones\Helix\Bundles folder
Renaming the current setlist
Importing and Exporting Helix Bundles
A Helix bundle le (.hlb) includes all 8 setlists that make up the plug-in's current Library,
including all presets and saved settings, all wrapped up in a single, tidy package. This
makes it easy to store a backup of your complete Presets Library - and easily restore
your Helix Native Library by importing the bundle. The options for importing and exporting a Bundle are found within the Preferences window (also see page 44).
Use the buttons in the Preferences window for Importing and Exporting Helix Bundles
To Import a Bundle - Click the Import Bundle button found in the Preferences
> General window. This will prompt you to ensure that you wish to replace all
setlists and presets within your Presets Library with those from the selected
bundle le. Continue through the “Open” window to select the bundle you wish to
import.
NOTE: Bundle les do not contain any of the Impulse Response (IR) les that
you may have imported into the Impulses Library. You can separately export IRs
from within the Impulses Panel - see “Importing and Exporting Impulse Re-
sponses” on page 19.
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