Line 6 HX Stomp Review: Amp Replacement & Pedalboard Solution?

This review dives into the Line 6 HX Stomp, exploring its potential as a complete amp and effects pedal replacement for live performances. The author, currently using a traditional setup consisting of a Blackstar HT-5 amp, microphone, and five individual pedals, sought a more streamlined and portable solution for gigs. This led to the acquisition of the HX Stomp and a compact pedalboard, aiming to significantly reduce setup time and equipment weight. The review details the transition process, comparing the HX Stomp's amp modeling capabilities to the author's existing amp and pedals.The author meticulously tests the HX Stomp's presets and utilizes its extensive editing features to create custom tones, tailored to their specific musical style. This hands-on approach provides a realistic assessment of the HX Stomp's versatility and sound quality in a live performance context. Ultimately, the review evaluates the effectiveness of the HX Stomp as an all-in-one solution, weighing its advantages against any compromises in tonal nuance compared to the author's previous setup. The final verdict explores the HX Stomp's suitability for gigging musicians prioritizing portability and ease of use.

Pros And Cons

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The Initial Setup & Problem

My current live setup includes a Blackstar HT-5 practice amp, mic'd up for larger gigs, along with five effects pedals and an amp footswitch. This setup works, but it's bulky and time-consuming to set up.

I'm using a tuner, acoustic simulator (essential for quick acoustic song transitions), a wah pedal, chorus, and my favorite distortion pedal (SLE Drive). I often leave the distortion pedal on and utilize the amp's channels for volume boosts during solos.

The sheer number of pedals and the associated cables create unnecessary clutter and setup time, motivating me to search for a more streamlined solution.

Introducing the Line 6 HX Stomp

My goal is to replace this setup with the Line 6 HX Stomp, a multi-effects processor, aiming for a lighter, faster setup. The HX Stomp boasts excellent amp modeling, potentially eliminating the need for a separate amp.

This would significantly reduce my gear to just the HX Stomp, a couple of essential pedals (like the acoustic simulator), and my guitar, making transport and setup a breeze.

I also received a compact pedalboard from Anderson's to optimize the new setup.

Sound Quality & Amp Modeling

I tested the HX Stomp's amp modeling capabilities using various presets and direct recording into my iPad Pro via USB. The digital output allows for high-quality recordings.

I focused on the direct setup presets, exploring different amp models like the Fender Twin Reverb and Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier. The sounds were impressive, though some felt a bit brittle.

Exploring several presets revealed accurate simulations of well-known amp sounds, showcasing the HX Stomp's versatility and depth.

Creating Custom Sounds

Beyond presets, I crafted my own sounds using the HX Stomp's extensive editing capabilities. I created three custom sounds: 'Dis Light' (a light crunchy tone for chords), 'Heavy' (a high-gain rock sound), and 'Dash Solo' (a solo tone with extensive modulation and echo).

The 'Dis Light' preset uses a Fender amp for a clean, bright tone perfect for rhythm parts and arpeggios. The 'Heavy' preset uses a Soldano SLO 100 with a tube screamer and phaser, creating a high gain, versatile tone. The 'Dash Solo' preset uses a 5150 amp with a phaser, chorus, echo, and spring reverb for a powerful solo sound.

These custom sounds demonstrate the HX Stomp's flexibility, allowing me to create precise tones tailored to my specific musical needs.

Final Setup & Conclusion

My final setup includes the HX Stomp, the acoustic simulator, tuner, and wah pedal, all neatly arranged on the compact pedalboard. Power supplies are still somewhat messy, but the core functionality is streamlined.

The Line 6 HX Stomp is remarkably versatile and sounds excellent. It has largely replaced my need for a traditional amplifier and multiple effects pedals, offering a significant reduction in weight and setup time.

While the HX Stomp doesn't perfectly replicate the exact nuance of my previous setup, its flexibility and excellent amp modeling make it an ideal solution for gigging musicians who value portability and convenience.