Line 6 POD HD500X Owner's Manual
POD® HD500x
ADVANCED guiDE
Rev A Electrophonic Limited Edition ©2013 Line 6, Inc.
Table of Contents
Overview ............................................................................................ 1•1
Home Views ....................................................................................................1•1
Tuner Mode......................................................................................................1•3
Tap Tempo .......................................................................................................1•4
Connections ....................................................................................................1•4
POD HD500X Edit Software ...........................................................................1•5
System Setup ..................................................................................... 2•1
Accessing System Setup ...............................................................................2•1
Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options .....................................................................2•1
Page 2, Setup: Utilities Options .....................................................................2•3
Page 3, Setup: Input Options .........................................................................2•3
Page 4, Setup: Output Options ......................................................................2•7
Page 5, Setup: S/PDIF Output Options .........................................................2•9
Page 6, MIDI/Tempo Options ....................................................................... 2•10
Page 7, Setup: Variax Options .....................................................................2•11
Page 8, James Tyler Variax Tuning Options ................................................2•16
Page 9, Setup: L6 LINK Audio ....................................................................2•17
Page 10, Setup: L6 LINK Control .................................................................2•18
Features & Functionality..................................................................... 3•1
FX Blocks .........................................................................................................3•1
Amp Blocks .....................................................................................................3•3
Mixer Block ......................................................................................................3•3
Moving FX Blocks ...........................................................................................3•4
Expression Pedal & Variax® Knob Controller Assignment ..........................3•6
FX & Amp Block Footswitch Assignment .....................................................3•9
Dynamic DSP ................................................................................................3•13
Set Lists & Presets ............................................................................. 4•1
Working with Set Lists ....................................................................................4•1
Working with Presets ......................................................................................4•4
Saving Presets .................................................................................................4•6
FX Edit Mode ...................................................................................... 5•1
Accessing FX Edit Mode ................................................................................5•1
FX Loop ...........................................................................................................5•4
Amp, Cab & Mic Models .................................................................... 6•1
Amp Model Positioning ..................................................................................6•1
Selecting Amp, Cab & Mic Models ................................................................6•3
Editing Amp Parameters .................................................................................6•6
Amp & Cab Edit Display .................................................................................6•6
Amp/Preamp Models ....................................................................................6•11
Cab Models ...................................................................................................6•14
FX Models .......................................................................................... 7•1
Dynamics Models ...........................................................................................7•1
Distortion Models ............................................................................................7•2
Modulation Models .........................................................................................7•3
Filter Models ....................................................................................................7•4
Pitch Models ....................................................................................................7•6
Preamp+EQ Models .......................................................................................7•8
Delay Models .................................................................................................7•10
Reverb Models ..............................................................................................7•11
Volume/Pan & Wah Models .......................................................................... 7•13
Looper Mode ...................................................................................... 8•1
Looper Footswitch Controls & Performance View........................................8•1
Looper Settings ...............................................................................................8•5
USB Audio .......................................................................................... 9•1
The Line 6 USB Audio Driver ..........................................................................9•1
The Line 6 Audio-MIDI Devices Panel ...........................................................9•3
Mac® - Line 6 Audio-MIDI Devices ...............................................................9•3
Windows® - Line 6 Audio-MIDI Devices.......................................................9•9
Appendix A: Line 6 Monkey™ ...................................................A•1
Launch Line 6 Monkey .................................................................................. A•1
Line 6 Variax Updates .................................................................................... A•3
Appendix B: MIDI ............................................................................... B•1
MIDI Input & Out/Thru .................................................................................... B•1
Bank & Program Change Messages ............................................................ B•3
Using POD HD500X as a MIDI Controller Device ........................................ B•5
Line 6, POD, DT50, DT25, Variax, James Tyler, StageSource, L6 LINK, CustomTone and Line 6 Monkey are trademarks of
Line 6, Inc. All other product names, trademarks and artists’ names are the property of their respective owners, which are
in no way associated or afliated with Line 6. Product names, images, and artists’ names are used solely to identify the
products whose tones and sounds were studied during the Line 6 sound model development for this product. The use of
these products, trademarks, images, and artists’ names does not imply any cooperation or endorsement.
Copyright © 2013 Line 6, Inc.
Overview
Overview
Welcome to the POD® HD500X Advanced Guide. This guide contains in-depth details
of the POD HD500X features and functionality. Please be sure to also read through
your POD HD500X Pilot’s Guide for basic info on POD HD500X and this Guide will take
it from there! In this chapter, we’ll present an overview of the main screens and features
to get you started.
This Guide covers POD HD500X with Flash Memory version 1.01 (or later) installed. Please use
Line 6 Monkey to check for and install the latest updates for your device - see “Launch Line 6
Monkey” on page A•1
.
Home Views
The place to start is in one of the Home View screens. Press the VIEW button to
SAVE
S
E
E
T
R
S
P
rotate through the 3 available Home Views. While in any of these Home View
screens, you can turn the
HOLD FOR SYSTEM & I/O
VIEW
Setlist, or push the
PRESETS knob to select from among other Set Lists!
Signal Flow View
The Signal Flow View displays all Amp & FX “Blocks” and their ordering for the current
Preset. As you’ll see in several of the following chapters, this is the screen where you’ll
“select” the desired Block to perform other actions, such as choose a new Amp or FX
Model, edit its parameters, move its position, and more.
Currently loaded Preset
location and title
Use the and Nav.
Disc buttons to select the
desired Block
PRESETS knob and call up a Preset in the current
Parallel Paths A (upper)
and B (lower) with Mixer
Block
1•1
FX Blocks within
“Pre” position
Amp Blocks Looper
FX Blocks within
“Post” position
The items within the Signal Flow View
The signal ow architecture of each Preset is comprised of 3 main sections where Amp
& FX Blocks can be positioned: Pre, Post and parallel Paths A & B.
Overview
1•2
At the bottom of the Signal Flow View screen, you’ll see up to four parameters that are
accessed using the Multi-function knobs 1-4.
Accessing parameters with the Multi-select Knobs
These parameters are specic to the currently selected Block and allow you to choose
new Models & edit parameters. Or, you can dive deeper in the Edit Mode and access
additional settings in other screens, as covered in the following chapters.
Performance View
The Performance View screen displays the FX and/or Presets that are currently assigned
to your POD HD500X footswitches. Footswitches
toggle FX On/O, or to select Preset channels (see “Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options” on
page 2•1).
FS5 - FS8 can be congured to either
FX assignment for FS1-FS8 ABCD assignment for FS5-FS8
These FX assignments for FS1 - FS8 can be edited for each Preset (see “FX & Amp Block
Footswitch Assignment” on page 3•9). When the Looper is active, the Performance
View screen displays a set of Looper functions (see “Looper Mode” on page 8•1).
Big User View
This screen simply provides you with one BIG display of the currently loaded Preset
number - convenient for dark stages!
The Big User View
Tuner Mode
To enter Tuner mode, press and hold the TAP button. A few options are available,
adjusted using the Multi-function knobs.
Overview
1•3
The Tuner screen
Pluck an individual string on your guitar and you’ll see the name of the note displayed.
When the graphic bar is to the left of center, your string is at; when it is to the right,
your string is sharp. When the bar is within the center range, triangles will appear
above and below it, indicating your string is in tune.
Overview
USB
PHONES AUX IN
L/MONO RIGHT TRS STEREO
FX RETURN
LEFT RIGHT
BALANCED OUTPUT
L/MONO R/MONO
UNBALANCED OUTPUT FX SEND
OUT/THRUINPUT
MIDI
OUT
S/PDIF
POWERGUITAR IN
PEDAL 2
LINE
STOMP
MIC LEVEL
CD/MP3
INPUT
L6 LINK
VARIAXMIC
9VDC 2.5A Min
CONNECT TO L6 LINK ONLY
• Reference (Knob 1): If you’d like to tune to a reference other than standard
440Hz, select from 425 to 455Hz.
1•4
• Audio (Knob 2): Select Mute to silence POD HD500X output while tuning, or
select Bypass to hear your guitar dry.
Press the
TAP switch, or any other footswitch, to exit Tuner Mode.
Tap Tempo
Tap Tempo is the term we use to refer to the “System Tempo” value that is
accessed via the
TAP button on your POD HD500X device. Stomp rhythmically
to set your Tap Tempo. Alternatively, you can set a numerical Tempo value
within Setup (see “Page 6, MIDI/Tempo Options” on page 2•10). This setting is
saved per Preset.
You’ll see the LED on the
TAP switch blink to indicate your current Tap Tempo BPM.
Tempo-based FX (Modulation, Filter & Delay FX) that oer a Tempo Sync parameter
can optionally be set to a note division of this Tap Tempo value.
Connections
Please refer to your POD HD500X Pilot’s Guide for descriptions of the rear panel
connections. You’ll nd more details on their specic uses within the following chapters
as well!
POD HD500X Edit Software
Be sure to visit line6.com/software to download the Line 6 POD® HD500X Edit
software - the free patch editor/librarian for Mac® and Windows® computers. Using
POD HD500X Edit and a USB connection you can easily create, audition, customize,
backup/restore and save an unlimited number of Tone Presets for your device. You
can even utilize POD HD500X Edit while simultaneously using the L6 LINK or MIDI
connections!
Overview
1•5
The POD HD500X Edit application
SyStem Setup
In this chapter, we’ll cover the options for conguring your POD® HD500X system
settings.
System Setup
Note that some System Setup options are “global” settings (they persist always, regardless
of the current Preset) while others are saved individually per Preset, as noted in the following
sections. You’ll want to be sure to save your Preset after changing settings of the latter type in
order to retain them.
Accessing System Setup
To access the System Setup options, press and hold the VIEW button. Here you can
congure several device functions, Input & Output settings and more.
SAVE
S
E
E
T
R
S
P
HOLD FOR SYSTEM & I/O
VIEW
Use the Nav. Disc buttons to navigate through the several Setup pages.
Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options
2•1
System Setup
2•2
The top portion of the screen lists the Flash Memory and USB Firmware versions
currently installed on your POD HD500X device. The lower portion of the screen oers
four options, adjustable using the Multi-function Knobs 1 - 4.
• Footswitch Mode (Knob 1): Congures the function of POD HD500X footswitches
FS5 through FS8 for either “Pedalboard Mode” or “Preset Mode” (see “Accessing
Set Lists” on page 4•1). This setting is global.
Note that you can reference all current footswitch assignments in the Performance View screen,
which will change its display according to the Footswitch Mode you choose here. See “FX &
Amp Block Footswitch Assignment” on page 3•9
.
• Amp Knobs Display (Knob 2): When set to “On,” allows the LCD screen to
momentarily display the actual Amp Tone Knob values whenever adjusting any
physical amp knob. This setting is global.
• Looper FS Display (Knob 3): When the
LOOPER footswitch is toggled On to
engage Looper Mode, the Performance View screen automatically changes to
display Looper footswitch functions (see page 8•5). This setting is global. The
two selections here oer the following behaviors when Looper Mode is active:
• All Views: Shows the Looper controls in the LCD regardless of the currently
selected View.
• Performance View: Shows the Looper screen as the Performance View screen
(and allows the 3 Home View screens to still be displayed when toggling the
VIEW button).
Note that the Looper display’s icons represent what each footswitch will do when pressed, and
not the function that the Looper is currently performing.
• Trails (Knob 4): When set to “On,” allows the echo repeats and/or decay of Delay
and Reverb FX to continue when the Model is toggled O. With the Trails option
“O” the decay is muted instantly when toggling the Model O. This setting is
saved per Preset.
• The FX Loop also utilizes Trails - bypassing the FX Loop with this feature
enabled causes the Return to remain active while the Send is shut O.
• The Trails feature does not provide a “spillover” of the FX decay when changing
Presets.
Page 2, Setup: Utilities Options
The options at the bottom of the screen are as follows - all are global settings:
• LCD Contrast (Knob 1): Adjusts the screen’s contrast.
System Setup
2•3
• Tap Tempo LED (Knob 2): Choose “On” to have the LED light for the
footswitch ash to indicate the current Tap Tempo value. Choose “O” to have it
remain unlit.
• AC Frequency (Knob 3): All HD Amp Models include simulation of AC hum,
typical of the AC Vacuum Tube Heater component - an important part of the
tonality of a tube amplier. Set the AC Rate to match that of the USA (60Hz) or UK
(50Hz) frequency for authenticity. (This setting may be subtle depending on the
current Amp Model settings, and may be more apparent when synchronizing this
setting with the AC rate of any tube amplier that POD HD500X may be plugged
into.)
Page 3, Setup: Input Options
The Inputs Setup page allows you to select which of the device’s audio inputs are used
as the “source” – sort of like a built-in, programmable patchbay. There is also a control
which adjusts the Guitar input impedance.
TAP
System Setup
2•4
• Input 1 and Input 2 Source (Knobs 1 & 2) - Select the physical input(s) that
you want to be the “source” fed into the signal path. Note that you can choose
dierent Sources to independently feed each signal path, or choose Same to
feed a common Source into both paths.
• The Variax and Variax Mag Input Source options are provided for Line 6
Variax® guitars when connected into the POD HD500X Variax Digital Input
(VDI).
• With a James Tyler® Variax® (JTV), the “Variax” Input Source receives the
Model or Magnetic signal, depending on the JTV’s Model switch settings.* The
“Variax Mag” Input Source receives only the JTV’s Magnetic Pickup signal.
*Note: With a JTV in use, the “Variax” Input Source selection also recalls whether you were using
mags or models per preset, allowing you to pick up exactly where you left off – no need for
manual selection or input changes.
• If you own a rst-generation Variax instrument, it is recommended to choose
the Variax Input Source option. Please also refer to your Variax documentation.
• Guitar In-Z (Knob 3) - Select the input impedance of the Guitar input. This feature
aects tone and feel because your guitar pickups are being loaded as they would
be by an eect pedal or a tube amplier.
Note: The Guitar In-Z setting affects the GUITAR IN input only. Please see the Impedance Ratings
table at the end of this section to reference the input impedance of each individual model.
• The Auto option dynamically sets the input impedance to match the input
impedance of the very rst Amp or FX model in your POD HD signal chain.
• Or, you can manually select from a variety of impedance values from low to
high (22k, 32k, 70k, 90k, 136k, 230k, 1M, or 3.5M).
A lower value will typically result in some high frequency attenuation, lower
gain and overall “softer” feel. A higher value provides full frequency response,
higher gain and overall “tighter” feel.
• Inputs Setup (Knob 4) - Determines whether the other 3 options in this Inputs
screen are applied per preset, or globally.
• Preset - Recalling a preset will load the Input 1 Source, Input 2 Source and
Guitar In-Z parameter settings as last saved with the individual preset.
• Global - Once the “Global” option is selected here, the other three Input
options’ values on this Setup page (Input Sources 1 and 2, and Guitar In-Z) are
utilized globally, regardless of their values that are saved with each individual
preset. The Input values you choose on this Setup page are
then retained independently for the Inputs Setup - Global option. When you
change the Inputs Setup back to “Preset,” the Input options’ values saved
with each individual preset are once again utilized.
Note: Saving a preset while this option is set to “Global” will write the current global Inputs and
Guitar In-Z values to the individual, saved preset.
System Setup
2•5
Amp & FX Model - Guitar Input Impedance Ratings
Model Guitar Input Impedance (Ohms)
Amps & Preamps
All Amp & Preamp Models 1M
Distortion FX
Screamer 230k
Color Drive 136k
Buzz Saw 230k
Facial Fuzz 22k
Jumbo Fuzz 90k
Fuzz Pi 22k
Octave Fuzz 230k
All Other Distortion Models 1M
System Setup
Amp & FX Model - Guitar Input Impedance Ratings
Model Guitar Input Impedance (Ohms)
Dynamics FX
All Dynamics Models 1M
2•6
Modulation FX
Dual Phaser 230k
U-Vibe 90k
Analog Chorus 22k
All Other Modulation Models 1M
Filter FX
All Filter Models 1M
Pitch FX
All Pitch Models 1M
Delay FX
Multi Head 22k
Analog Echo 230k
Analog w/Mod 90k
All Other Delay Models 1M
Preamp + EQ FX
All Preamp & EQ Models 1M
Reverb FX
All Reverb Models 1M
Wah FX
Weeper 90k
All Other Wah Models 1M
Volume & Pan FX
All Volume and Pan Models 1M
System Setup
Amp & FX Model - Guitar Input Impedance Ratings
Model Guitar Input Impedance (Ohms)
FX Loop
FX Loop 1M
About Source Input Signal Routing:
It is important to note how POD HD500X actually routes Source Inputs 1 and 2 through
Amp & FX Blocks that are positioned “Pre” position. The following behaviors apply:
• In a conguration with no Amp or FX Blocks in Pre, Input 1 is fed only to Path A
and Input 2 only to Path B. Therefore, this is the best conguration if you want to
retain discrete Input Sources into Paths A & B.
• Placing an Amp Block or an active mono FX Model in Pre results in a “mix-down”
of Input Sources 1 & 2, feeding the same, combined signal into each Path A & B.
• Placing a Stereo FX Model in Pre results in the left channel FX output being fed to
Path A and its right output to Path B.*
• The Mixer Block’s Volume and Pan options provide independent control for Path
A & B outputs before they are fed through any Blocks positioned “Post” the Mixer.
2•7
• By setting Input 2 to “Same,” this eectively routes your Input Source to both
stereo Paths A & B (which is how you can feed one guitar input into two Amp
Models and/or parallel FX, for example).
*Please also see “Model Types and Mono/Stereo Signal Routing” on page 3•5 for more
about how mono and stereo FX affect your signal chain.
Page 4, Setup: Output Options
The Mode setting on this page allows you to congure the type of signal fed to your
POD HD500X analog outputs
external amplier.
Note that this Mode setting affects the signal fed to several POD HD500X outputs: Balanced,
Unbalanced & Phones outputs as well as USB Record Send & L6 LINK audio outputs.
to optimize for direct recording versus connecting to an
System Setup
2•8
Knob 1 selects the Output Mode. This is a global setting.
• Studio/Direct: Typically the best option when connecting “Direct” to a mixing
console or recording device. This signal includes “Studio” Cab Models, Mic
Model and an “AIR” convolution to best emulate a mic’ed amp within a room.
• Combo and Stack settings: Optimizes your tone for connecting to an external
amplier. The signal includes “Live” Cab Models,with no Mic Model or “AIR”
convolution, with a special EQ curve added for each.
• Combo Front & Stack Front: For connecting into the front input of a typical
combo amp or amp head + external cab, respectively. When choosing either
of these Modes, you’ll see the following additional options for further tone
shaping:
• Lows (Knob 2): Attenuates the low frequencies.
• Focus (Knob 3): Increases the overall midrange.
• Highs (Knob 4): Attenuates the high frequencies.
• Combo Power Amp & Stack Power Amp: For connecting to the power amp of
a combo or head amp.
TIP: When using the Combo or Stack options and connecting into a tube amplier, we also
recommend that you choose a Preamp Model from the Amp Model menu (rather than one of the
“Full” Amp Models). HD Preamp Models include no power amp emulation, making them typically
better suited for this connection. That said, there is no wrong choice! PODs have always been about
exibility... Check out all the possibilities and decide which Models work best for your tone!
Page 5, Setup: S/PDIF Output Options
These options are strictly for conguring the signal fed to the S/PDIF OUT. Use this 24bit digital connection when connecting to the S/PDIF input of other devices, such as a
computer audio interface or digital mixing console.
Note: When connecting to another digital device, it is best to clock the external device to
follow POD HD500X to maintain proper synchronization - please see your digital device’s
documentation for its digital clock features.
• S/PDIF Output (Knob 1): Selects the type of output mode signal: Match Outputs
(uses the setting as congured on the Setup:Outputs screen - see page 2•8)
or Dry Input (your Source Input signal with no Amp, Cab, Mic, “E.R.” or FX
processing applied).
System Setup
2•9
• Sample Rate (Knob 2): Selects the sample rate: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz or
96kHz. When connecting to another device’s S/PDIF input, always be sure to set
both units to utilize the same sample rate.
• S/P Level (Knob 3): Increases the amplitude of the S/PDIF signal: 0 dB.
System Setup
2•10
Page 6, MIDI/Tempo Options
• MIDI Channel (Knob 1): Sets the “System” MIDI Channel that POD HD500X
utilizes for both receiving and sending MIDI communication via the MIDI DIN
Input/Output. Choose any individual Channel 1 - 16, or “Omni” for all Channels.*
This is a global setting.
*Note: The MIDI Channel selected here also affects the MIDI Channel settings utilized by L6 LINK
- see “Page 10, Setup: L6 LINK Control” on page 2•18.
• MIDI Out/Thru (Knob 2): Allows the MIDI Out DIN to be switched between a
MIDI Output versus MIDI Output + Thru.
• Tempo Sync (Knob 3): The “Speed” or “Time” parameters of all tempo-based
FX (Modulation, Pitch & Delays) can optionally be set to a note value to follow
the (Knob 4) Tempo BPM value. This Tempo Sync option is a global setting that
allows you to choose whether the FX follow the Tap Tempo as a per-Preset value
or globally.
• Preset: Tempo settings are saved and recalled on a per Preset basis.
• Global: Tempo information stored within any Preset is ignored. When saving a
Preset while this option is set to “Global,” the current tempo value will be saved
with the Preset.
• Tempo (Knob 4): Enter in a specic “Tap Tempo” for your current Preset (as
opposed to stomping rhythmically on the
individually per Preset.
TAP footswitch). This value is saved
Page 7, Setup: Variax Options
Setup Page 7 - No Variax connected Setup Page 7 - James Tyler Variax connected
As illustrated above, Setup page 7 will display additional, model-specic options when
a Variax instrument is connected to the POD HD500X
Variax family and its rmware version are displayed at the top right of the screen when
the Variax is connected.
Available options and behaviors displayed will dier depending on the Variax type and
model you have connected, as described in the following sections. With any Variax
connected to the VDI input, the Knob 1 option functionality is as follows.
• Variax Control (Knob 1): Choose whether you want to assign all your Variax
settings on this Setup pg 7 screen on a per Preset basis or Globally.*
VARIAX (VDI) input. The specic
System Setup
2•11
• When set to “Preset,” all the parameter settings shown on the Variax Setup
screens (Setup pages 7 & 8) are saved and recalled individually per POD
HD500X preset. You’ll see additional options in the screen when you have a
Variax connected and choose “Preset.”
• When set to “Global,” this provides complete manual control over all Variax
functions, regardless what Variax settings you may have saved within the POD
HD500X presets.
*Note: For a James Tyler Variax (JTV) this will also determine whether the guitar’s Mag/Model
switch selection (as heard through the “Variax” Input Source option) will be recalled per Preset or
Globally.
Also note that the Setup Pg 8 - JTV Tuning Options are not affected by this Variax Control
setting. The Tuning settings are saved per Preset.
System Setup
2•12
James Tyler® Variax®
All James Tyler Variax (JTV) family guitars are supported. Also see “Page 8, James Tyler
Variax Tuning Options” on page 2•16 for even more JTV options!
• Variax Control (Knob 1): See page 2•11.
• Model (Knob 2): Selects the Variax Model & pickup position setting. Choose the
“Don’t Force” option if you prefer to not have the JTV local Model changed by the
Model value saved within the POD HD500X presets.
• Local Control (Knob 3): Determines whether the JTV Volume and Tone knobs,
and/or toggle switch are to remain active or be “locked.” When locked, the knob/
switch no longer controls the JTV guitar’s local functions for the Modeled output
of the guitar.*
*Note: When utilizing the Magnetic output mode on the JTV guitar, only the Volume knob is
“Locked” by any of the Local Control - Locked settings. For the Magnetic output, the Tone
and Pickup switch functions remain unlocked even when set to “Locked” via Knob 3. This
feature allows you to freely use the JTV Tone knob or Pickup selector switch when the JTV is
in the Magnetic pickup output mode, while keeping the Modeled settings still “locked” if you
prefer these Modeled settings to remain unchanged when you toggle back to Modeled output
mode!
Also note that when any of these JTV controls are locked, changing the JTV guitar’s Model
Encoder knob automatically always resets all to unlocked.
James Tyler® is a registered trademark of James Tyler Guitars.
• Setting the JTV Volume and/or Tone knobs to “Locked” can be desirable when
the knobs are assigned to remotely control any POD HD500X Amp or FX
parameters - see “Expression Pedal & Variax® Knob Controller Assignment” on
page 3•6 for details.
• Tone (Knob 4): Allows the JTV Tone knob value to be saved with the current
preset, or applied Globally, per the Variax Control (Knob 1) setting.
Variax Electric
All rst generation Variax Electric Guitars are supported.
System Setup
2•13
• Variax Control (Knob 1): See page 2•11.
• Model (Knob 2): Selects the Variax Model & pickup position setting. Choose the
“Don’t Force” option if you prefer to not have the Variax guitar’s model changed
by the Model value saved within the POD HD500X presets.
• Local Control (Knob 3): This feature is not applicable for rst generation Variax
instruments, therefore, no options are available.
• Tone (Knob 4): Allows the Variax guitar’s Tone knob value to be saved with the
current preset, if desired.
System Setup
2•14
Variax Acoustic 700
For a Variax Acoustic Guitar, you’ll see two Setup pages, 7a and 7b, to accommodate
the additional controls. Multifunction Knobs 1, 2 & 3 are common controls, shown on
both Setup pages. Knob 4 is unique on each page.
• Variax Control (Knob 1): See page 2•11.
• Model (Knob 2 - pgs. 7a & b): Selects the Variax Acoustic Model. Choose the
“Don’t Force” option if you prefer to not have the JTV local Model changed by the
Model value saved within the POD HD500X presets.
• Local Control (Knob 3 - pgs. 7a & b): This feature is not applicable for Variax
Acoustic, therefore, no options are available.
• Mic Position (Knob 4 - pg 7a): Changing this value simulates changing the mic
position on the acoustic from closer to further from the soundhole.
• Comp (Knob 4 on pg 7b): Selects the amount of compression eect applied to
the Variax Acoustic tone.
System Setup
Variax Bass 700 & 705
For a Variax Bass, you’ll see three Setup pages, 7a, 7b & 7c to accommodate all the
controls on the Bass. Multifunction Knobs 1, 2 & 3 on all pages are common controls.
Knob 4 on each page is unique.
2•15
• Variax Control (Knob 1 - pgs. 7a, b & c): See page 2•11.
• Model (Knob 2 - pgs. 7a, b & c): Selects the Variax Bass Guitar Model. Choose
the “Don’t Force” option if you prefer to not have the Variax Bass Model changed
by the Model value saved within any POD HD500X preset.
• Blend (Knob 4 - pg. 7a): Adjust this controls the balance between a neck and
bridge pickup tone on the Bass.
• Bass (Knob 4 - pg. 7b): Adjusts the amount of bass frequencies.
• Treble (Knob 4 - pg. 7c): Adjusts the amount of treble frequencies.
System Setup
Page 8, James Tyler Variax Tuning Options
The Page 8 Setup screen oers Tuning options for James Tyler Variax guitars.* These
allow you to congure and edit alternate tunings for your connected JTV guitar, which
can be saved right along with any POD HD500X preset!
2•16
*Note: This tuning functionality is only available for James Tyler Variax family guitars. If no JTV (or
any rst-generation Variax) is connected, this screen offers no accessible options.
• Variax Tuning (Knob 1): Choose “Don’t Force” if you do not want the POD
HD500X preset to aect the local tuning on your JTV guitar. Choose “Custom” to
create a tuning of your own, which can be saved with the current preset.
• String Select (Knob 3): Select the desired guitar string, 1 though 6, for which you
want to change the pitch.
• Note Oset (Knob 4): Choose the amount of half-steps, positive or negative, for
which you want to raise or lower the pitch of the selected string. The resulting note
will then be displayed on the tuning graphic at the top of the screen. For example,
in the screenshot above, we’ve altered the low E string down two half-steps to a
D note.*
*Note: The offset value will always be accurate - the note labels displayed assume the guitar is
tuned to standard pitch (E, A, D, G, B, E), with the A using a 440Hz reference pitch.
Page 9, Setup: L6 LINK Audio
These options congure the POD HD500X audio signal fed to up to four Line 6 DT50™/
DT25™ ampliers using the L6 Link connection.* These settings are saved per Preset.
*Note: For details on using the POD HD500X L6 LINK connection with DT ampliers, please see
the additional documentation available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/.
• Amp 1 - Amp 4 - Select the audio signal you want fed to each DT amplier:
• Choose the main output signal (Left, Right, Left/Right summed).
• Choose the output of one specic Amp Model (Amp Model A or Amp Model B).
These options congure the POD HD500X audio signal fed to up to four Line 6 DT
Series ampliers and/or StageSource™ speakers using the L6 LINK connection. The
settings for each of the 4 Amps are saved per Preset. Whenever one or more DT
amps/StageSource speakers are connected to the POD HD500X - L6 LINK output,
you’ll see each identied on the screen, such as the “DT50” appears as connected in
the #1 Amp position in the above screenshot (note that these are indicators labels only
and not stored per Preset).
System Setup
2•17
1 - 4 Amp Options - Select the specic POD HD audio signal you want fed to each
L6 LINK-connected DT amp/StageSource speaker. Note that the L6 LINK audio signal
fed to each amp is mono.
• Choose Left, Right or Left/Right (summed to mono) to send the main POD
HD output signal.
• Choose the output of one or two specic POD HD Amp Models - Amp Model
A, Amp Model B, or both Amp Model A/B.
System Setup
2•18
• Choose Mute to silence any connected DT amp/StageSource speaker.
This is handy, for example, if you are L6 LINK-connected to both a DT amp
and StageSource speaker.* You can save some POD HD Presets with the
StageSource set to “Mute” to allow an electric guitar tone to be heard through
DT amp only - and other Presets with the DT amp set to “Mute” for an acoustic
tone to be heard from the StageSource speaker only. Even better, if you use a
Line 6 Variax, these electric & acoustic guitar settings can be saved with your
POD Preset as well!
*Note: It is necessary to always place the StageSource speaker(s) last in the L6 LINK signal
chain (e.g. - POD HD500X > DT50 > StageSource L3). For more about using the L6 LINK
connection, DT Series amps & StageSource speakers, please see the additional documentation
available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/.
Page 10, Setup: L6 LINK Control
These options allow you to dictate how up to four connected Line 6 DT50 or DT25
ampliers each “follow” the POD HD500X Amp Models & settings. Parameters 1 - 4
correspond to L6 LINK connected DT ampliers 1 - 4, respectively.
• Each DT amplier can be set independently to follow either the current Preset’s
Amp Model A or Amp Model B.
• The DT amplier automatically congures its power amp Topology settings to
match the selected Amp Model A or B.
• The DT amp controls are also synced to the selected Amp Model A or B.
• Alternatively, you can select a MIDI Channel to set the DT amp’s MIDI
communication channel. This eectively sets the respective DT amp to utilize its
own internal Amp Model (rather than the POD HD500X Amp Model), and “syncs”
its front panel controls with other DT amps that are set to the same MIDI Channel.
*Note: These L6 LINK Control settings are for DT Series ampliers only and ignored by any
connected Line 6 StageSource speakers, which do not respond to MIDI CC messages.
Features & Functionality
FeatureS & FunctiOnality
Ready to dive deeper? In this chapter, we’ll go into more detail on the major features &
functionality oered on POD® HD500X.
FX Blocks
For each Preset there are always a total of 8 FX Blocks, each capable of loading any FX
Model, (or the FX Loop - see next section). When in the Signal Flow View screen, select
any FX Block and you’ll see options at the bottom of the screen, adjustable using the
Multi-Function Knobs 1-4.
3•1
The Signal Flow View with an FX Block selected
• Knob 1 - Model Type: Select from among the FX Model categories.
• To load no eect in the selected Block, choose “None.” You’ll see the Block
then appear “Null,” as shown below. A Null FX Block can still be moved and
loaded with a new Model at any time. Setting unneeded FX Blocks to None
is a great way to minimize your tone’s DSP usage (see “Dynamic DSP” on
page 3•13).
FX Blocks with the Model set to “None”
• Knob 2 - FX Model: Choose the desired Model from the Model Type list.
Features & Functionality
• Knob 3 - FX Parameters: Choose from up to 5 adjustable parameters.
Alternatively, double-press the
in one screen - see “FX Edit Mode” on page 5•1.
• Knob 4 - Parameter Value: Adjusts the value for the currently selected parameter.
Each FX Block also oers the following features:
ENTER button to access all the Model’s parameters
3•2
• On/O: Toggle the FX Block “On” or “O” by pressing the
ENTER button once.
When O, your signal ows through the FX Block unprocessed.
• Move FX Position: Each FX Block can be moved throughout signal chain,
providing complete routing exibility. Place any FX Model before the Amp (“Pre”),
after the Amp (“Post”), or within one of the parallel Paths A & B - see “Amp Model
Positioning” on page 6•1 for details.
• Saved Per Preset: All FX Block positions, their loaded FX Models and all FX
parameter values within the tone are saved with each Preset.
FX Loop
For any one of the 8 FX Blocks, you can load the FX Loop rather than an FX Model.
This allows you to position the POD HD500X hardware FX Loop anywhere you like
within the current signal path - even within one of the parallel Paths A or B!
The Signal Flow View with the FX Loop selected
Note that it is necessary to set one of the FX Blocks within your Preset to the “FX Loop” before
you’ll hear the signal fed through your SEND & RETURN device connections.
Access options for the FX Loop at the bottom of the Signal Flow View, or in the Edit
Mode screen. You can also toggle the FX Loop “On” or “O” by pressing the
ENTER
button once. The FX Loop’s position and all its parameter values are saved per Preset.
Please also see “FX Loop” on page 5•4.
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