Guitar Effects
As with any digital vs. analog discussion, there is always something lacking in the quality of digital effects. However, with that being said, I have been using the POD XT Live for nearly 2 years and have come to really enjoy playing with it. For those not familiar with Line 6, they are the leader in digital tone modeling. Their line of products include both hardware and software solutions for guitarists looking for authentic amp/cab/effects tones.The POD XT Live comes standard with 84 stomp box and studio effects, 36 amp models, 24 cab models, and 4 mic models. The XT Live includes 128 programmable channels (I use a total of 8) and a volume/wah pedal all in a rugged steel box.
The advantages of the POD XT Live include it's incredible versatility and the ability to come up with a seemingly endless amount of tonal combinations. The unit's line out can be plugged straight into a PA system or into a mixer for recording. The amp/cab tones can also be disabled so that you can plug the unit directly into an amp for use solely as a multi-effects unit.
The optional line 6 software is also an attractive product as it allows you to create and save equipment combinations on your p.c. and then upload them via USB directly to the unit. Additionally, the Line 6 Customtone.com website allows owners of Line6 gear to share their tones. A vast database on the site allows you to search for tones associated with your favorite guitarists.
There are several negatives with this product including the wah pedal which leaves a lot to be desired. But all things considered, the POD XT Live is a respectable piece of equipment and something that guitarists that are frustrated with the endless tweaking of pedal boards should consider. Also those guitarists that need to change tone dramatically while playing a set should also consider this Line 6 Product.
