Line 6 Pod XT Live

Maybe there is a difference in quality coming off the line but I find it REALLY difficult to get anymore than one note playing to sound good. If I hit two or more notes they clash and provide a mushy output. I have tweaked and twonked the full range of the unit and tried several different guitars (6 or 7). When I use ANY of my other pedals I get great clear clean sound and beautiful separation when using effects like distortion. I have spent WAY too many hours trying to make this thing sound even ok to use. Maybe I got the lemon out of many good ones. I hate it.

Can't really use it due to poor output, even worse than a broken clock.

Not as easy to use as (say) a Fender Twin...but this has a hell of a lot more flexibility than any non-modeling amp. Quite easy to use if you invest a little time in learning how it works and experimenting with it.

I've been gigging and recording with amps from Fender, Marshall, Peavey, Mesa/Boogie, you name it since the 70s. I've been gigging and recording with Line 6 since 2002. According to sound engineers, audience members, and fellow musicians, I get a great sound out of it. I had one musician--a guy who is a total tone snob, analog/tube all the way--express shock when he came up to the stage after the gig and saw my Line 6 setup. "I had no idea that Line 6 gear could sound so good."

But at the same time, I've heard lots of guys get horrible tones out of Line 6 gear. What's the difference? Here's how to dial this sucker in:

1. Listen. Turn off all the effects and just listen to the raw guitar tone. Play some simple stuff, hold notes, don't just rip scales. Get a friend to listen with you.

It's best to listen in the setting where you will be playing. Best: while you're rehearsing with your band. Second best: play along with your iPod or the radio. See how that ******** high-gain tone with scooped midrange disappears? The bass takes your low end--the hi hat and cymbals take your high end--you're left with...nothing.
Record yourself rehearsing and gigging. Ask people how it sounds. Get a wireless and walk out front while you're soundchecking.
Then, go back and tweak. Lather, rinse, repeat. Keep tweaking.

2. Tweak carefully. This thing has very powerful controls. Make small changes and listen again. This is especially true for the gain control. Unless you want to turn your guitar into an unrecognizable mess, never crank the gain to full on the high-gain models. Start out around noon, or better yet, 10:00. Go with about 20 percent less gain than you think you need, and you'll hear your tone start to come out. This is a good guideline for normal amps too. About 75 percent of crappy tone comes from using too much gain.

3. Tweak everything, Make sure you tweak the cabinet models, mike models and placement. These make a huge difference in the sound. I've settled in on 2 or 3 mike and cab combinations that work for me.

4. If you have a decent PA and sound guy, run direct for live work. This thing is made to be played that way. If you don't have a decent PA and sound guy, nothing will make your guitar sound good out front. It may sound great on stage, but that doesn't really cut it.
If you really want an "amp" on stage, get an Atomic Reactor amp. I have the 50 watt 1x12 and it's great. Great for that amp feel, feedback, etc and for filling out the first row or two in small clubs. Loud as hell. If you really need to be louder than that, you'd better be wearing earplugs, in which case, you can't hear the amp anyway so why are you worried about the tone? But still, better to run direct than mike the Atomic. Fewer variables--is the mic broken? Is it the right kind of mic? Is it placed correctly? Will it get knocked out of place during the show? etc etc.

5. Be objective. There is a certain religious fervor among musicians about tube amps. I've heard people rave about my "tube tone" only to be told that the tube amp (the Atomic) is just for monitoring and I run direct from-oh my GOD--a digital amp simulator.

Let me tell you from over three decades of experience. I've played through every legendary amp there is. I've gigged actively with an original blackface Deluxe, a plexi Marshall, a Boogie Mark III, and God knows how many other amps. I've had a basement full of vintage gear. And I've concluded: there is really nothing special about tube amps. Don't buy the hype--you don't need to use 1950s radio technology to get good tone.

People ask, does this sound like the real (say) Marshall? What does that mean? I used to have two JCM800s in my basement. They sounded radically different. Same models, made around the same time...read interviews with major players, they'll search and search for a "good" JCM800. All I can say is--the JCM800 patch sounds very, very good when dialed in.

Never had a problem with Line 6 gear in 7 years of gigging. I've had lots of problems with tube gear though, blowing up, smoldering, loose tubes, shorts, etc.

Never had a problem, so never had to deal with them.

Installed several model packs, downloaded patches without a hitch though.

I play everything from country to blues to metal to reggae to industrial noise. Whatever they're paying for.

Been playing since 1973. For money since 1976.

If it were stolen, I'd probably get the X3 Live, but I'd be very happy with another XT Live.

What I most love about this is walking into a gig with this, two guitars, and a bag over my shoulder. Load-in: 45 seconds. Setup: 3 minutes.

I had messed around with similar units, so it wasn't that hard to get into. Reading the manual is essential if you're editing patches on the unit itself; there are button combos for certain features that you just wouldn't figure out on your own, and things are all buried in menus, and you only have two knobs to navigate them with, so it can get tedious. But it isn't really difficult to understand, aside from a few menus that are a little cluttered.

Editing patches using the software interface, however, is a snap. Plug the thing in via USB after installing GearBox or Line 6 Edit, and you'll be tweaking up patches within a couple minutes. The GUI mimics the front panels of the amps and effects, so there's literally no learning curve if you already know how to dial in an amp.

I play an Ernie Ball Music Man JP6 with the stock DiMarzio pickups (modified Air Norton and Steve's Special in the neck and bridge, respectively). My rig goes guitar > PODxt Live > BBE Sonic Stomp > Tech 21 Power Engine 60 212. I've been able to get some amazing tones with this setup.

I find that the POD really excels at everything from sparkling cleans to crunchy high gain, but its shortcomings start to stand out a bit more when you're after a brutal, saturated metal distortion ?? la a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier. These sounds are possible with the POD, they just take a bit more work to dial in. You'll have to figure out how to EQ around the pronounced hiss you'll hear with most of the stock high-gain settings.

All the amp models are very usable, but I gravitated toward just a handful. I bought all of Line 6's extra model packs (they had a special, $99 for every single model they make), and most of the amp models I really like are part of the Metal Shop pack. For cleans, I use the Blackface (Fender Twin model), and for most of my distortions I use the variac'd '68 Marshall (Plexi Variac on the POD). For high gain, I love the Mississippi Criminal (Peavey 5150 model) and their ENGL and Diezel models (from the Metal Shop pack).

I use a stomp box model on just about every patch, usually the Tubescreamer and Pro Co RAT models. They're all pretty dead-on, so whatever you like in real life, you'll probably like on the POD. They have all the classics, like the Tubescreamer, RAT, Fuzz Face, Chandler Tube Driver, and lots more. Some of them are part of the FX Junkie model pack, which is included with the PODxt Live.

The other stuff I use sparingly, but what I do use always sounds great. I only use reverb on my clean patches, and I mostly just leave the knobs at their default settings except for the mix knob, and then scroll through the different flavors until I like the sound of one. The digital delay is the only delay I use, and it's fantastic. In addition to adjusting the time, number of repeats, and volume, you can also adjust the bass and treble for the repeats, which is an option I never knew I'd love until I got this unit. I also like their model of the MXR Phase 90, but that's about the extent of the effects I use. Less is more, if you ask me.

There are a couple settings that mimic rack pieces: a compressor, a noise gate, and a semi-parametric EQ. They all work well and allow for a little more flexibility in shaping your tone, but I can't really compare them to the real deal because I never used them. They've come in handy, though, and their absence would've meant a much lower rating for this category. You simply can't be without the noise gate (the POD would be too noisy on high-gain settings), and the EQ is great for punching up your tone or knocking back annoying hiss or boom.

The most important factor in getting a good sound of this (or any modeling unit, really) is running it through the right amp. Remember, this is not just an effects box; it's a modeler. It's emulating the sound of a mic'd amp, the same as you'd hear on a recording or through a PA system. If you run it in front of a regular guitar amp, you're hearing the fully modeled amp and effects chain through another amp, which might sound good, but probably not. The POD has a few different settings to tell it what you're running it through, so be sure to pick the one that matches your setup.

The best solution is to run it straight into a PA system (the equivalent of a mic'd amp through a PA), or into a keyboard amp or studio monitor. I use a Tech 21 Power Engine, which is just a power amp and speaker combo, no preamp. The POD acts as a preamp, and the amp itself doesn't color the tone from the POD. Something like this is the only way to hear your POD or other modeling unit as it was meant to sound -- and the PODxt Live sounds absolutely killer with my setup.

The casing is all steel and feels pretty sturdy. The expression pedal is squeaky, and I haven't taken the thing apart to adjust it (I don't think this should be necessary, but I hear it can be done easily). The tone control knobs are plastic, but there's a metal bar in front of them to keep you from accidentally kicking them.

The unit I got was used but in really good shape. I take it to practice and gigs with no backup, though I guess it's always smart to have a backup no matter how reliable you think your equipment is. I've experienced no issues with it after about a month of heavy use. In fact, I bought the XT version instead of the X3 precisely because it's built sturdier (the X3 is all plastic, and I heard horror stories about faulty switches and dying units).

Haven't had to deal with them, but Line 6 has a good web site with an extensive knowledge base and support forum. Reading through the discussions you'll see lots of posts by Line 6 employees, so I assume they're pretty on the ball.

I've been playing about 17 years, mostly rock. I play in various cover bands, plus I like to jam with friends or just play by myself whenever I can. For me, the PODxt Live is a perfect match. I always liked the idea of an amp with everything built in, which is why I usually bought amps with onboard effects (never had any interest in a giant rack-based rig, or a huge pedal board). They were never quite as tweakable as I'd have liked, and they were always missing a few things that I really didn't want to do without. I've owned mostly small practice amps, a couple of tube combos, but I was never as happy with any of them as I am with the POD. This thing is a tweaker's dream -- there are far more options than most people would ever use -- and the amp and effects models are mostly spot-on. If you use it correctly, you can get pretty much any sound you want with a rig that costs hundreds instead of thousands of dollars.

However, I didn't appreciate the upselling on the model packs. Purchased separately, all the additional model packs would run you another couple hundred bucks, and even if you take advantage of one of their bundles, you're still paying extra to get the most out of the unit. This just seems a little dishonest to me, kind of like selling a razor for five bucks and then charging 20 bucks a pack for blade refills. Yeah, it's several dozen amps and dozens more effects and stomp boxes in one unit for under $400 (and as low as $200 or so if you buy used), but at $399 I'd expect to get more than what comes with it.

And even after ponying up for the extra model packs, you're extremely limited in how you can use them if you own other Line 6 products. I also own a POD Studio UX2 (formerly TonePort), which comes with the POD Farm software. I love using that as a plug-in when recording, but I can only use it with the UX2. My model packs are installed on my XT Live, so unless I want to buy them again (I don't), I have to go to the trouble of transferring them from one device to the other. It's not a huge deal -- it only takes a couple minutes -- but it's pointless. I can use the model packs on both products anyway, so why put customers through that hassle? Just let us buy the packs once and use them on whatever devices we want.

But that's a beef with Line 6 and not really the PODxt Live in particular. This unit does exactly what I want it to do, it sounds great, and I'm extremely happy with it. If it were lost or stolen, I'd probably buy it again. I might be tempted to try out another modeler -- maybe the Vox ToneLab, or the units made by DigiTech, BOSS, Zoom, etc., which I hear are all good -- but I'd probably end up sticking with the POD because I already know how to use it.

I have had a Boss GT6 before and found the POD xt live seriously easy to use in comparisson. Tones are easy to dial in from scratch especially in conjuction with the "gearbox" software and editing presets is also a breeze. The manual is easy to understand - it has not been translated into english from japanese by a french student with a speech impediment, unlike most "multi-language" instruction manuals. All together a fine experience.

I play a USA 60th anniversary Srat and a PRS single cut SE, both of which sound fine through the POD. I send the POD output to the effects return on my Laney LC 30 (valve) and set the output to "combo pwramp" to get the best tone. I have also put the POD through my Fender Deluxe 90 (tranny) amp on the power amp input and got good results also with the same set-up.
I cannot pretend to have played my modest selection of guitars through any of the real Amps that are modelled on the POD, only the Laney comes close to being a representation of true valve performance and the POD seems to replicate the character of valve tone and dynamic response quite accurately.
As far as effects are concerned, I can only rate the ProCo RAT simulation as I have the real thing to test against. After setting the POD to a similar amp as my Laney and A-B-ing between the model and the real thing, there seems to be no discernable differance in tone, even the virtual RAT controls respond in a very similar fashion to the real thing apart from the fact that they do not have "crackly" pots as my original does!
There are certain effects I doubt I would ever use, my set-up before the POD was just guitar, Dunlop Wah, RAT, Laney and that was all, but to have all those Amps on tap is the whole point of this purchase and I have not been disapointed so far.

I cannot offer a response as it has not been tested in the field as yet, but it seems to be well manufactured and robust.

Website seems OK and the updates via Line 6 Monkey should keep everything in order

From what I have found so far, the POD appears to cover any base I would like to throw at it. I do not expect to use all of the features of the POD, but the features I have encountered tick all of the boxes I require. I can only compare with the Boss GT6 and find the POD so much easier to use and a far better tonal experience. The Boss sounded either thin or over the top, without too much middle ground, whereas the POD is much more subtle and controllable. I have recorded with the POD onto a digital 8 track, as well as played "live" and have found, if the POD is set up correctly some very useable and pleasant tones on offer. The on-line tone library and "guitar port" also offer some exceptional presets well worth experimenting with.
In all, an enjoyable piece of kit, with much to offer.

The XT live is pretty easy to use for the most part, and I've found the manual helpful - the biggest problem is that it doesn't really explain everything and misses out some of the XT Live's shortcomings.

I'm really happy with the sound quality, I bought this to use as a silent recording device - basically so me and a drummer(with an electric kit) could jam witout annoying the neighbours. The worst sound that comes out of it is the loud squeak the volume/wah pedal makes! That said I've had to make my own presets to get a sound I like, the presets seem pretty tacky for the most part.

Never had a problem with it (other than the squeeky pedal)

Never had to deal with them.

I really like the xt live though I have some reservations. The things I don't like are: All the effects are divided into five groups and you can only use one effect from each group. This means you can't use a two distortions in the same patch or you cant use a synth and a fuzz together or a chorus and a phaser. I would have liked each pedal to be able to have controlled any effect. I also like it to have an effects loop. You also don't seem to be able to turn the reverbs on and off. I could be wrong about these thing (I hope I am!) but because of them I've been a bit disappointed in the xt live.

Once you get into it, it's not bad at as far as set up goes, but on the fly tweeking is nearly impossible. Once you have a preset saved I would recommend using the remaining B-D banks to save various tweeks on the A. Live it kills me not to be able to reach down and take my delay, phaser, or______ (insert effect) down a bit in the mix from a lead to a rhythm section. It's all or nothing pretty much.

HUGE DEAL-- You can't use more than one effect at time!! for instance on the mod pedal, you have various settings from chorus to flange, phaser, and various (to be honest nearly useless) other fx, and you can only set one at a time, with no potential of mixing and matching at all. This was very disappointing to me, it takes the creativity out of creating, for lack of a better phrase, as far as sounds are concerned.

I play professionally, and have a guitar in hand about 40-50 hours a week. 2-5 gigs a week, plus teaching and studio session work. Guitar is literally all I do for a living. So my tone is my life, and I trust that when writing this review, there has been literally hundreds of hours over the past few months that I have put in with this pedal. I put it to the test the 2nd day I had it. I got it on a Thursday, went home, dialed it in, and played it live Friday, Sat and Sunday, with a recording session on Wednesday. I play jazz, funk, rock, soul, R&B; so I need a lot of versatility from Grant Green to Journey, to James Brown, and everywhere in between. I play through a Fender Hot Rod Deville, and have a Gretch Falcon hollowbody, American Tele, and a JV strat. All of them have the same issue through the pedal. The distortion just doesn't cut it.

I have a Variax 600 on order for the past 2 months, and I am trying to hold out for that to see if it makes a difference, but if a real strat and a real tele don't get it done, I'm not sure what will.


When practicing at the studio, things sound great. But live, I just can't get the tones I need. My boss is always telling me that my leads just aren't "cutting through" as he explains it. We use in ear monitors with a personal 16 channel mix (13 piece band) and when I solo, I can't even hear myself cutting through my own mix. And the delay and other effects seem to really muddy up the distortion instead of adding color to it.

In STUDIO-
I have used it in about 20 hour so of album recording for various projects in the past month, and again, I end up using amp farm in portools to get the sound to cut through (which is also ironically made by Line 6)

If you are a freak about tones, be advised, this is advertised to be more than it's cracked up to be.

I've had mine for 3 months, played close to 30 gigs with it, and never had a problem.

I play professionally, and have a guitar in hand about 40-50 hours a week. 2-5 gigs a week, plus teaching and studio session work. Guitar is literally all I do for a living. So my tone is my life, so please trust that when writing this review, there has been literally hundreds of hours over the past few months that I have put in with this pedal. I put it to the test the 2nd day I had it. I got it on a Thursday, went home, dialed it in (generally), and played it live Friday, Sat and Sunday, with a recording session on Wednesday. At first I was kind of blinded by the fact that I didn't have to carry my pedal in a 88-key keyboard case, and the sound seemed to be pretty cool.

I originally bought this unit, because my 4ft pedal board of hand selected effects just didn't fit on stage anymore, so I needed to downsize. From what I read this seemed to be it for me but...
-No flexibility live
-The sounds (through a tube amp at least) don't translate well on stage. I can tell that they are there, but they just don't come out of the damn box!! In a studio setting when you can sit there with protools plug ins and eqs to get what you want, I guess ti works fine.

This week I finally had to break out my Keely Modified RAT distortion pedal, and my old Lexicon MPX 110 rack unit effects processor and ahhh... I finally sounded like me again. I put it in front of the pod and had it go straight to the amp, using only the modelling, phaser and delay from the pod, but if you put the pod last in the chain, pretty much everything is going to compress from it (yes even with the compressors off).

Basically I feel like I took a really big gamble with this piece of eqiupment and kind of got burned. I had only read one review before I bought this that said the same thing I am, and thought that he was probably the one that didn't know what he was talking about, but what he said is true at least for me.

My sound is everything, and I feel like I am very shortly going to sell it and buy organic (actual stomp boxes). If you only need delay chorus, flange, phaser, and distortion, you're better off researching your fav guitarist, finding out what they use, and buy the stomps. That's my opinion at least. It's a great idea, but it just doesn't make the grade in my book. Definitely not a piece for the hardcore pros.

Read the manual!!! Easy after that.

Have to turn down the treble on almost all amp models, but I am running it into the power amp input of a m-80 combo. I love that it has given me the chance to try "amps" that I never would have plugged into. Love the Citrus-30 program. I know that the programs are probably idealized reproductions and not exact copies, but who cares as long as you get really good sounds. Even the feedback has a musical quality like a tube amp.
I use a Heritage LP copy w/PearlyGates pups;Gibson LPjr;Fernandes LP;
Fernandes Strat;Squier Strat; Fernandes Tele; Fender m-8o combo amp;
Marshall combo amp; and numerous stompboxes.

Had it less than two months with no problem.

Never used, but I really like the sound library they have.I

I play rock, blues, and some country. Been playing for about 20 years, but have never had a lot of money to put into equipment. This thing has really opened my options as far as diversity of sounds. Also my LesPaul w/Pearly Gates sounds different than my Strat, which sounds different than my Tele. The quality of each guitar comes through.
If stolen or lost I would definitly replace or upgrade to X3live.
Wish it had a bigger screen.

There's a lot of technology here, and a lot of options in terms of getting the right set-up for your circumstances. Assuming you're smart enough to get thing configured right then getting some decent tones out from the off is pretty straightforward.

They've managed to make the editing interface very intuitive considering just how much "tweakability" is on offer. Essentially, you've got standard pots for the amp controls, then a simple "select and spin" edit system for all the extras (stomps, mods, reverbs etc etc)

As many have commented the manual is a little cheesy, but that's Line 6 for you. I've used their stuff on and off for years (mainly off, as I've never been a fan before), and the general tone of the guide is just like my first ever POD 1.0 pilots handbook all those years ago.

I'm running a Variax 500 into the XTL, then direct out to a powered monitor (sadly not using the Variax digital link as the guitar's connector is stuffed).

Sound quality is where I'm frankly amazed. Like I said, I've used a range of Line 6 stuff in the past, from the very first incarnation of POD, to various stomp boxes, and the FloorPOD. The sounds have always been lacklustre. The XTL uses the newer Vetta modelling and the difference is amazing. I've been a died in the wool Vox Tonelab user for the last 4-5 years, and really didn't think I'd ever be swayed, but I fancied a change and wanted to see how the Variax and XTL married up.

I'm a blues/rootsy player (unlike, it seems 90% of XTL users who are into the heavier side that Line 6 is famous for). I've got a great set of fairly simply Fender and Marshall tones on tap that sound terrific and while they're not quite as "organic" feeling as the Vox tones, aren't far enough away to worry.

The great thing with the XTL is the sheer flexibility. Within a single patch I can set up a basic amp tone, a compressor for a clean boost, an overdrive pedal for a lead sound, some modulation, some delay, and a wah, and it's ALL controllable from the footswitches. One of the big limitations with the Vox was that you had to select compression/od/wah from the same "bank" so you could only use one in any given patch - no such probs here!

And if you want to get wacky, the pre-loaded FX Junkie package gives you access to a range of filthy synth sounds and mental delays to make your guitar sound like... well, not a guitar! They're fun to mess around with, but for me, I've got 2 banks of 4 presets each that give me a complete cross section from Fender Twin to full tilt Marshall, plus an acoustic option.

Still a relatively new user. There's some reliability issues on other reviews here, but at the end of the day, this is basically a hi-tech computer. If you treat it like a laptop, instead of like a brick, it should last.

Line 6 have a great website with a busy and useful user forum. I've had a couple of questions that needed a direct answer and the Customer Support Team came back within 24 hours both times.

I'm a simple player that likes simple music. The biggest thing I have to contend with is remembering that just because I can have a gazillion different sounds doesn't mean I should!

After an initial muck about with the unit I'm gradually settling on some nice, organic, amp sounds that sit well and offer me a variety of tones for different settings. The great thing is that I know if I need more, it's always there.

I've played guitar since I was 8, I'm now 36. I've gigged, recorded, and sat up late playing at home. I've used decent valve amps (still miss my Fender Hotrod Deville), and modelling options from Line 6, Vox, Korg, Digitech and Zoom.

This is the first offering from Line 6 that's really got me smiling (apart from my Variax, which I love!).

lost or stolen? Yes, I'd get another.
Anything I wish it had? To be honest, not really.
Does it help make music? Absolutely.

It has almost everything you need except combining two amp models simultaneiously.. Get the X3 for that.. This pedal is very easy to tweak, dont go by the presets, their all screwed up.. Get your EQ's and cab's sims to your liking and you'll get the sound you want

OK here's the deal, if your comparing each simulated amp model to the real amp, for example a dual treadplate (AKA dual rectifier) to a real Mesa dual rectifier its not go to sound as good.. or a Soldano SLO model model to are real Soldano SLO, its a no contest, the tube amps have more dynamics and are just better period. However, the true measure of this Pedal is the variety of tones it provides.. Suppose you have a Soldano SLO or a Bogner, Engl or what ever type of High Priced amp out there and have the urge to play metallica Master of puppets, neither of those amps are going to get you that tone since only a dual rectifier will nail that and thats where this pedal comes into play. It provides that variety and flexibility.. Try playing along to an MP3/CD of one of your favorite bands and hear how similar the tones coming out of the PODXT sound.. It nails it.. For home practice or if your a musician covering a wide range of bands, the XT is ideal.. If your a serious musician who writes originals and plays live, then you would get yourself a high priced amp head with a 4x12.. The key to the XT's sound is to turn off the cab simulations, it sounds to compressed.. Run everything direct and EQ everything to your liking..

I like to play along to Metal and I've had everysingle tube amp from a triple rectifier, Engl, 5150, Marshall Mode 4 and what I found is that I needed a pedal chain to go along with those amps in order to sound like Metallica, Killswitch, Lamb of GOD, Etc.. In addition those amps only sound great when cranked so if your practicing, the POD XT is what you want, it will dial up the exact tone your trying to emulate.. If your gigging get your self a high priced tube amp

yes its easy

it sucks the life out of your tube amp

dont know or care

??

shop around.

Easy enough to use. Good manual even if it's cutesy. Becomes a real doddle when connected by USB to Line 6 Edit on your PC. Could hardly be simpler.

I'm only writing this review because of all the cloth-eared wombats who seem to think the Boss GT-8 sounds better. I can't speak for the GT-10 but if it's in the Boss tradition then it'll be flawed in a similar way.

The XT Live is better. Much better. It's somewhat different in character from Native Instruments' Guitar Rig (which is top-notch too) but both of those make the Boss amp sims sound silly. Which they are. I'm a Roland fan in many ways but, alas, the company hasn't cracked the art of digital modelling. Not yet.

I've spent close to 30 years on a personal tone quest and I've been through everything from vintage Marshalls and Fenders to the latest Mesa Boogie Express 5:25 (a great amp, btw). I've had boutique and vintage pedals and just about every company's stab at a multieffects unit since the old Ibanez analogue ones.

I've had my second-hand XT Live for more than a year now and I must say, now that the honeymoon is over, that it's surprisingly good. The modelling is quite something. Obviously any simulation must fall short of the real thing, at least in theory, but the point is that the sims are every bit as usable as the modelled gear for most practical purposes. Not identical necessarily, but imbued with the same sonic character.

I disagree with those who say that the XT Live lacks playing feel or sounds fizzy/lifeless/synthetic. Many of the presets have problems, yes, but if you spend the time rolling your own (and simplicity is a virtue in creating patches) then you should be pleasantly surprised.

I might add that it's pointless trying to put this thing in front of a tube amp, even into the effects return jack. Sure, you can use it as a stomp/delay/mod kind of effects unit with reasonable success, but I've had only unsatisfactory experiences trying to get the amp sims to sound decent through a guitar amp.

No, this unit shines when you run it through a full-range system. I'm having good luck with a Yamaha/EV PA system and a Roland KC keyboard amp. For a snobby old tone hound like me, what I'm about to say is shocking: I'm more than idly considering getting rid of my tube amps. They're finicky to use, they have maintenance needs and they don't always sound quite the same from one month to the next. Sure, they have a certain subtle something about them that the Pod lacks; but is it worth all the hassle and inflexibility? I'm starting to think maybe not.

Does the XT Live sound as good as a real cranked tube amp? Er, yes, actually. Certainly in a noisy live situation where the tube amp is miked through the PA. In such a case, you'd be crazy to think that anybody could hear any difference worth mentioning. Even you, if your stage monitor is good enough.

Well, I dunno. Mine's been fine and it's had a fair share of abusive outings.

Never contacted Line 6 but I do think their helpful website is something that others should aspire to.

I play what is laughably called "classic rock", power pop and retro funk and soul. I've been at it for just over 30 years. My guitars include a nice Gibson LP and Fender Tele, plus oddities like the Danelectro reissue and a tasty Strat copy by Tokai.

I must say that I'm glad I picked up this used XT Live on a whim a year ago. I'd got fed up with multi units after a string of Boss disappointments and an experience with the original kidney-bean Pod that was tantalising but ultimately not quite satisfying.

This thing answers almost all of my objections to digital fakery. You, of course, may have higher standards.

When tweaking sounds, it's not overly hard to use. If you have anything with this many features, tweaking does take time, so I wouldn't worry about it. Let's say an 8.

Playing live - real easy, and flexible! I love the Pod's control layout, it feels really intuitive to me. To break it down, you have dedicated buttons for switching between banks of 4 presets each. Then, for each bank, you have a button for each of the presets (A to D.) In addition to that, you have 4 separate buttons for switching on/off the following effects within the preset: amp (the actual simulation), stomp (various stompbox simulations), mod (chorus, tremolo etc) and delay (duh). The only thing missing is a separate button for reverb, basically. In addition to these, you have the tap tempo switch which, when pressed down, activates the tuner. The expression pedal controls different things, such as the wah or the bender.

As a testament to the flexibility of having separate switches for the presets and then the effects, here's how I use the Pod: I play in a cover band with stuff ranging from tango to 50s rock to hard rock, so I need a ton of flexibility. But still, I basically only have like 4 presets that I use regularly, all in the same bank. Each of the presets gives me a basic sound, such as "Clean with reverb". Then, for each of the presets, I activate or deactivate effects based on the kind of sound I need at that moment. For the basic clean patch, for example, I can add some tremolo by pressing "Mod", analog delay by pressing "Delay" and a touch of grind by pressing "stompbox". This really gives me a lot of possibilities and combinations without having to have a separate patch for every sound!

I do still have some special single-purpose presets (think a Muse patch, and a U2 one) but mostly I get along with the aforementioned setup.

So, for playing live, ease of use gets a 10! Call it a 9 overall.

I have the Metal Pack installed. Honestly, I mostly use the stock amp sims. If you take the time to tweak, you can get some very decent sounds out of the Pod. Then again, I find it hard to re-create some sounds I need, such as a really kick-ass heavy rhythm with many layers of harmonic content, or a truly searing lead sound. But, the sounds get you 80% there compared to real tube amps etc, IMHO!

For my metal band, I use an Engl Invader head, the Pod's no match for it for brutal heavy sounds, really. But for flexibility (cover band stuff), it's basically one of the best options out there!

As for the effects, some of them are excellent, some useless (such as the bender, I think it sounds like crap.)

So, a strong 8 for the sounds, most things are definitely usable.

My setup with the Pod XT live is simple: I have a basic Washburn guitar (BT-8) that I've equipped with an LR Baggs tune-o-matic Piezo bridge, so I get a stereo output from the guitar. The magnetic pups go to the Pod and from there straight to the P.A. The piezo signal (passive) goes to a LR Baggs DI first, and from there straight to the P.A. So, the guitar, Pod and DI are all the junk I carry around. With the Piezo, I can get quite a good acoustic sound that's also easy to mix with the Pod signal. Recommended!

Had it for 3 years now. Played some 60-70 gigs in that time, mostly cover gigs where the set is usually 3 hours long, with a bunch of drunken people partying around the stage area, drinks spilling and all that... And I haven't had a single problem with the thing! It's gotten a generous pint of lager all over the controls more than once, and this has never caused problems. All the switches still work as good as they did when I first got it. The construction is rock solid. And I'm carrying it around in a really stuffed soft bag, so it's taken its share of bumps during the years!

Haven't dealt with them (see above, haven't had problems!) other than using their website for updates and buying the metal pack. Seems fine!

Been playing for something like 12 years now (I'm 27.) I'm really happy with the Pod. Nothing to add here to the previous answers really. If you're looking for flexibility and portability with good sounds, the Pod does the trick! For my cover band, the Pod's great. For the metal band, it stays on the shelf while the Engl takes the stage. If it were stolen, I'd probably buy a newer version of the Pod.

once you sit down with the pedal and figure out
how to program it ..you can get great sounds out of this pedal
manual is big but it will help
it was a little overwhelming at first

I have all the expansion packs installed

the stock settings aren't the best - don't give up though
after some tweaking you'll wish you bought one a long time ago

I use this with a Fender M80 head and Fender 412 (not the M80 one)
sometimes with my Fender Bullet or Sidekick practice amps

93 Gibson Les Paul Studio or 07 Les Paul Supreme Goldtop
1967 Gibson Les Paul SG

when I play bass I use it with a GK 400RB head
or a Ampeg svt 3 pro head or a GK 700 rb head
Ampeg 410 HLF cab or Hartke 15 cabs re loaded with Carvin 15's

2 Fender P Bass Deluxe's or a Fender Highway one Jazz bass

I can get exactly the sounds I want for guitar or bass

love the Soladano , AC 30 , Marshall , Orange , Mesa sounds

for bass I use the one that sounds like my GK

I have all the expansion packs installed
not all these come stock with the pedal

software works great - line 6 monkey - amp farm is cool so is gear box
I've used it usb and plugged into a
Presonus Firepod to record into Sonar 8pe

I've had mine for 2+ years never a problem with it
I use it for recording or practice
sometimes for shows - mostly I use my amp maybe a pedal or two
and leave this at home - I don't want someone walking off with it

I think its very dependable - I'd gig without a backup

never dealt with them
other than to get my extra expansion packs
via the line 6 monkey software - easy

I play punk rock in my bands
and I don't use it for bass live - my main instrument
the band I play guitar in rarley plays out
so its more a recording toy for me

I have the POD X3 on the way too
the kidney bean not the pedal

I love this pedal it really helps me make music
new sounds inspire me - especially good ones

this is in response the the absolutely glowing report on the POD XT live i made back in November last year.

loads of you have been checking out my youtube videos and leaving nice comments asking me if that was the POD XT LIVE i was using on them.. IT WASNT.. shortly after these videos were made and posted up on there i got one.. and it was the biggest mistake ever..


Ive since SOLD the unit, as after spending MANY MANY months trying to tweak it.. it is BASICALLY a piece of crap folks and i sold it on eBay.

They sound great for studio use, but in a live setting, forget it.. unless you have really forgiving ears, youll simply never be happy with the sound.

not bad sound quality, if youre going to record with it. for live use 0/10. no matter what i tried, my JMP-1 and even DRP-1 came MUCH closer to giving me a good direct overdrive tone.

i liked the van halen emulation, i actually thought it was quite close.. but when i used it live, it sounded crap.

i know youre supposed to "tweak" these patches for live use, so i tried that too.. AFTER two months of tweaking, one day i plugged my JMP-1 back into the mixing desk, and BANG! a good sound was back !.. i was totally DESTROYED.. lol ..

Ive used it on 3 gigs, and at first thought, yeah its ok-ish.. but throughout the evening it felt like i was playing through a 15-20 ms latencied computer.. plus there was "something" in the way of the sound. no matter what i did.. Eq, tweak settings, patch downloads, NOTHING got rid of this "hidden" frequency..

the POD XT LIVE ( and ALL PODS ) have 10,000,000 sounds in them.. but i was only after TWO. a good clean sound and a good warm overdrive sound. It disappointed.

useless.. after about 20 phone calls to the company ( on my mobile ! ) trying to get some person to person help on what the heck i was doing wrong.. forget it..

in the words of Alan Sugar .. " these products arent for looking at.. theyre for selling.. "

The Pod's are ok for studio, but please dont believe the hype.. after many hours of forum asking and searching and trying i bought one.. it is very well made, looks the business, and i am now totally gutted that it simply DOESNT cut it for live use..

it seems that businesses today spin and market almost ANYTHING to make YOU think that its what you need.. as i was playing through the POD..

more and more i was reminded of when i was a kid at those london music shows..

filled with loads of middle-aged men aimlessly walking round with their day-jobber faces on, their credit cards burning a hole in their pockets just WANTING to BUY ANYTHING that a market seller type guy says .." THIS IS IT>.... THIS IS THE ULTIMATE MULTI-EFFECT ".. the guys eyes light up at the thought of getting pure tone at wife-friendly levels...

anyways, thats my 10pence worth....

im sure theres like millions of you out there that dont believe me, its just my opinion, i think the unit looks great, but it really DOESNT deliver LIVE folks.. my 90's Marshall DRP-1 sounds better.. MILES better.. and theres no delay..

do yourself a favour, if you are going to buy a POD of any description, try one out on a gig/rehearsal FIRST.. most gear sounds great in a music shop or recording at home.. but live its a whole different ball game.


so i went from being a genuine convert to absolutely no faith in pod gear.. and it appears that im not the only one..


i think the only reason id go back to one, was if LINE 6 phoned me up and said.. " ok, heres our live room.. here is a POD Live unit.. here is a drummer, and bass player, tell us WHY you CANT get a good sound out of it.. " ..

.. id love to be proved wrong as the POD XT LIVE had it all, an onboard tuner, great idea, neat features... but just COULDNT get the sounds..

.. oh and i also googled to the ends of the earth, and quite a few people made it work for them.. Lincoln Brewster.. and a great guy on youtube called extremevideopro.. hes a great guy and he tried to help me loads...


Peace.

I traded my vox tonelab le for the pod xt live a few days ago.
I am VERY glad I made the trade. Long story short - vox = classic rock, and pod = heavy rock. I found the pod to be a lot easier to program, while still having lots of cool effects and things that will never leave you bored. This thing has some great sounds. (and a couple ****** ones, but nothing is perfect)

I am using an ibanez RG prestige guitar with the pod through a PA.
I sometimes run it just for effects through my fx loop on my mesa boogie dual rectifier. Either way, the pod sounds very clear and has little noise. I like using the jcm 800 setting for rhytm and soldano with a little bit of delay for leads.

This is my backup for my dual rectifier. The pod seems to be built like a tank, and I have had no issues with it so far.

All my line 6 products have been working great and never needed customer support.

I play mostly prog. rock/ metal and this thing does exactly what I want it to do, and I can achieve great tonez out of it. It is amazing for direct recording, and totally beats micing up a 100 watt tube amp and pissing off your neighbors all of the time. If this were lost or stolen I would probably save up for either the pod X3 or the m13.
This is a great product, and I didn't know what I was missing until I got one. It was deffinetly worth trading my vox tonelab le for. I give the pod xt live a 9 / 10. It is a great pedal board for the money, but not many products quite deserve a 10/10.. while this one comes close.

I have had this board for almost three years. I have spent hours tweaking. The manual is mandatory to understand what is in there and how to operate it. Depending on what type of rig you have, you have to tweak as this thing reacts fifferently, rig to rig.

If you are looking for straight plug and play, this type of thing is not for you.

If you want to eliminate purchasing more gear and don't mind taking the time to find what is in there, this unit will save you thousands.

Since purchasing this unit and a line 6 variax I have stopped buying gear

I play this with a line 6 variax and either a mesa 5:25 express or a peavey prowler, both tube amps.

I use it as an effects board only. The board through the effects loop and the variax straight into the amp. I find the signal gets pre amped too high (noisy) if the board goes into the front of the amp.

I have a very simple set up, I only use one bank and have each patch set up for the same gain boost (Whichever stomp box is currently in fashion for me) and delay (digital) and then have a patch each for slow tremolo, fast tremolo, chorus and flange.

I use the pedal for volume and wah as necessary

Again, give yourself time to find settings that work for you.

One caveat, a little goes a long ways. Try your pedal settings at gig level before suggesting it's crap. The pre amp gain stages take a small signal and transfer it into something else at volume so give yourself time to tweak at practice.

Never had any problems

Never had any problems

I play classic rock/blues in a four piece cover band

Been playing for 40 years and own a telecaster, wah and two boss DS 1's

If lost or stolen I would buy another one.

Through months of tweaking, I have finally figured out how to find the tone I hear in my head and have allowed it to replace years of buying and selling gear

Once you go through the manual with the XT next to you, the entire setup is very simple. Getting a perfect sound is fairly strenuous but that is because there are so many things that you can edit. It is easy to get junk sounds if you aren't careful.

The manual was helpful although a little bit unclear at times. Once you are familiar with the product you won't have a problem.

I use this for recording and live through either a fendor amp or straight into the PA system. This is great for recording because there are infinite possibilities for sounds and feels. You can edit everything from amp/cabinet to mic placement and a million other presence/filter/compression/etc... sounds. You really have to work with the specifics or you will get a really fake sounding tone.

The presets stink. They really do. Only buy this if you are willing to make the sounds you want or else you will be stuck with a bunch of sounds that you will never use. (Bohemian Rhapsody Solo effect is cool, but you can really only use it if you are playing that solo....)

The effects are great. It would be nice to have a reverb stomp and another Mod stomp in addition to what they have but that doesn't bother me.

I haven't had it for too long but it has performed perfectly in every situation I've come across.

-I play technical metal/jazz fusion but I also play Christian worship music at my church. It is perfect for both of them.

-I've used many other pedals, effects, processors, amps... this beats them all.

-It would be nice if it had more stompbox options in addition to the Amp, Stomp, Mod, and Delay. It just means you have to play with the the abcd channel presets to get more options on the same sound.

-One of the only bad things i have to say about the XT live is that all of the options can get in the way. Too many times I have found myself playing a song and thinking to myself, "this minor setting should be tweaked" 20 minutes later i'm more unhappy with the sound that before and wish that i had just left it.

Ive been playing for over 10 years now in loads of bands.. I have always been a proud JMP_1 user.. check out my videos . www.steveforward.com thats all the JMP-1 going direct to the mixing desk ..

since ive been solo everyone has been raving about how fanstastic line6 gear is..


well, to be honest i thought it was a crock of **** and never thought in a million years that they would be able to get real amp sounds in a solid-state unit..

how wrong was I ..

ive had the thing for like 4 days now, and this morning tried it out against my regular JMP-1 .. i honestly cant tell the difference and to be frank ( if you can be shirley ! ) it even sounds a little tighter and less fizzy.

when ive played in bands ive always used 1 or 2 Marshall 1978 Master Volumes with Marshalls POWER AMP INPUT mod which goes straight into the PHASE SPLITTER of the EL34's .. this then went to one cab that had Vintage 30's in and the other that had Greenback 25's in.. SUPERB tone.. AND THIS POD has beaten it .. HANDS DOWN..

Ive backed up all my patches ( all 2 of them !!! ) using gearbox no problem.. so if the unit went wrong id just get it repaired or replaced and them dump the patches straight back on..

looks well built, but will be making a case for it with plexi front to protect the dials etc.. not that it would need it..

never had to use them, im sure you could just pick up the phone and get things sorted though..

what more can i say..

ive been reading these comments on here for like 3 years and whenever im after a new piece of gear i always google review and use Harmony Central..

I really do believe that the sound is largely coming from what you, as a player, are generating.. i see so many guitarists slate new equipment when theyve only been playing a few years..

more often than not its your settings on the amp that are to blame..

the POD XT LIVE has literally saved my a*s from a lifetime of using out-dated and un-supported gear.. PERIOD..

I play almost every week, and for a living, and i cannot wait to get this out in front of people to hear..

to all the VALVE AMP enthusiasts.. i still Rave about valve amps, but .. really.. COME ON.. can you REALLY tell a difference ??

the original pods were horrendous to me.. but this thing is in a different league..

to quote a famous musician friend of mine..

" Steve has been playing through my POD XT LIVE all day and ive never heard anything quite like it.. hes now got exactly the same sound as my Vintage Marshall has but going through the PA !! "

im not a wonder-genius or world famous musician, just someone that makes their living writing and performing music on a regular basis..

my conclusion :

you are absolutely NUTS if you dont give this thing a FAIR SHAKE !! as for me, its BYE-BYE valve amps and hello direct sound leaving me to concentrate on the most important part of being a musician.. making music.

Well done Line 6.. youve cracked it.. now i have to get the X3 as well !!!

www.steveforward.com
www.youtube.com/steveforwarduk
www.myspace.com/steveforwardguitarist

well, you need to learn how to handle it... but you do the same with a guitar, its not only the hardware, its the fingers... and using the usb connect on the computer, makes it very easy.
the manual is quite simple and explains a lot how to get sounds and how the sound is working inside, so it is usefull.
I had a flash memory upgrade...

great sounding with all of my guitars.

IF I HAD TO USE ANALOGIC PEDALBOARD I WOULD NOT GET THE SOUND I GOT WITH THIS UNIT!!! I've tried!!! I would need 10 great single pedals with a good valve amp and good speakers, to get a better tone!

allways working... anytime, anywhere...

on the website, also the forum is very helpfull and there are lots of users allways helping each other

i play rock covers, jazz standards, fusion, and a lill bit of shred...
I play only from 6years, but I cant live without the PODxt Live...
PODxt live and PODx3 live are the best pedalboards I ever heard...
any boss pedalboard sounds like plastic... oh, and zoom too... and digitech... behringer isnt for music, only for crap...
only expensive rack units would give me a better sound...
this unit has tons of effects and its very stimulating to create new sounds / music... and to just get 'that tone' I was searching for...

well, you need to learn how to handle it... but you do the same with a guitar, its not only the hardware, its the fingers... and using the usb connect on the computer, makes it very easy.
the manual is quite simple and explains a lot how to get sounds and how the sound is working inside, so it is usefull.
I had a flash memory upgrade...

great sounding with all of my guitars.

IF I HAD TO USE ANALOGIC PEDALBOARD I WOULD NOT GET THE SOUND I GOT WITH THIS UNIT!!! I've tried!!! I would need 10 great single pedals with a good valve amp and good speakers, to get a better tone!

allways working... anytime, anywhere...

on the website, also the forum is very helpfull and there are lots of users allways helping each other

i play rock covers, jazz standards, fusion, and a lill bit of shred...
I play only from 6years, but I cant live without the PODxt Live...
PODxt live and PODx3 live are the best pedalboards I ever heard...
any boss pedalboard sounds like plastic... oh, and zoom too... and digitech... behringer isnt for music, only for crap...
only expensive rack units would give me a better sound...
this unit has tons of effects and its very stimulating to create new sounds / music... and to just get 'that tone' I was searching for...

When I first got it, I was a little confused on how to adjust the settings. The software that was available for the computer made it easy to start off but after a while it was easy to figure out on the fly. There was a lot of reviews on here about the pod not being user friendly, well they just need some time to figure it out. I could change just about anything in seconds.

I play in a band with some good friends of mine. When I heard my lead guitarists well tuned spider amp compared to my Marshall with no effects, Mine sounded really thin. I got this pedal, worked out a few clean channels and a few different crunch channels and our rigs sounded much better together.

The sound quality of this pedal is all in how much time you have to tweak it. There is so many settings for each effect. You will have to spend some time setting it up prior to playing a gig, and probably some more on the first couple.

Well as for reliablility, I gigged with mine for well over a year, and played in my own house almost on a daily basis with no issues other than the noisy expression pedal. Well a week ago I shut it off working fine, and just the other day turned it on to jam out and nothing. the display was blank and only three lights came on.

I checked out all of the tech and forum info on line 6 about resetting the board or getting into the safe mode. Still nothing. One forum listed a way to hold down the second botton in from the left while turning it on and well there you have it. SRAM falure. contacted a Line6 repair shop, Closest one 200 miles away, they said that they could fix it for 70 dollars an hour plus parts and shipping both ways. make me wonder if I should get the new pod3 or just get it fixed. who knows. Oh yeah there is only a one year warranty...too bad I have had it for about 2 years.

I havent tried them yet since my warranty expired. I might give them a chance since one forum said that the issue that Im having may still be under warranty. Doubt it though

This is one of the most versitle pedals that I have ever owned. If I would have had a variax I might have seen every thing that this pedal could do. I think that I will still buy another line6 product, even if I dont fix this one. The only thing that I wish it had was a second built in expression pedal similar to the long board for the spider series, not the cheap plastic expansion pedal that is offered.

This thing has so many sounds, I doubt any player will ever use them all to their sonic potential. This will provide a studio rig or live fx board to suit the tastes of any guitarist.
So simple to use, okay it may take a few weeks to get totally familiar with what's available, but once you get going, you can't stop.
The pilot's handbook is a great asset, easy to read and the images are cool. I often flick through the manual as a bed time read.lol

In the studio, the business.
I am a pro recording artist and I have used this unit constantly on the road and in the studio.
I am a strat player exclusively, and all of my axes have really come to life with this thing. Whether I'm playing vintage single coils, custom shop 69's or lace sensors with the mid boost, I have always been able to create great sounds when using the Pod XTLive.
It's only noisy owing to my vintage style guitars, I live with it because I want that vintage strat sound and noise is a part of it quite often. The unit itself is silent, no trouble. Perfect when used as a pre amp for microphones.
All of the FX are good quality sounding. They are varied and not all are to my taste, some are just for fun in my practice time.
I even use it in the studio with my Taylor 412ce. Awesome.
The amp models are what make it for me, some truly awesome options in this department.

When used live, I don't bother with the amp models (except if needing a dual amp tone) I just put it in front of the clean channel on my Fender Deville 212. The fx are great, I am a real fan of the wah pedal and much prefer it to my CryBaby.

Rock solid, I have never ever had an issue.
IMO Line6 is very good quality.

The best, their website is just surreal, no other manufacturer offers so much to download.

I am a pro and I have been releasing albums for many years now.

This machine is great. I was thinking of upgrading to the Pod X3Live but I am happy where I'm at. If it works, don't fix it.

First of all, if you can't get a pretty broad palette of usable tones out of this thing, here are a few of the possible reasons.
You're not trying.
You didn't read the manual.
You're not sure what tone you're going for.
Your ear is broken.
You're too hung up on that tube vs. digital debate.

Seriously, with all the resources available for Line6 gear, there's no excuse for not being able to get some great tones.

Editing patches couldn't be more intuitive. If you can work an amp, you're in there. That said, there are a lot of routing options available here, depending on your guitar, amp, or application. It can be complicated to really take advantage of everything if you don't read the manual.

Speaking of the manual, it's corny. It's also really clear and straightforward. I normally just dive into whatever piece of gear I'm playing with and go. With the PODxt, I had been told that it was a good idea to read the manual FIRST, otherwise I would never get it's full potential. Do yourself a favor, READ IT.

My signal path is;
Ibanez RG's - Korg DTR 1000 - Alesis 3630 - Weeping Demon wah - Boss OS2 Overdrive/Distortion - PODxt Live - BBE Sonic Stomp - Crate FXT120 (2x12 combo also feeding a 4x12 cab. Bring earplugs).

I run from the processor chain straight into the FX loop return, bypassing the amp's preamp section, and making the POD the preamp.

I don't have any issues with noise, at least not due to the POD. Any pickup hum or noise is easily filtered out either by the gate in the POD, or the Alesis.

The effects for the most part are really top shelf. Anyone who's used a multi effects unit before will know that says a LOT. There are so many models and tones available that, like I said earlier, if you can't find something, you're not trying. If anything, there's a few too many. If you're in a cover band playing vastly different styles over the course of a gig, this thing could very well cause a religious experience.

The best way I can think of to explain the tone quality is that I can take a model of a high gain amp, and get a chunky distorted to pieces tone. I can go from that to a slightly overdriven cleaner tone for chords, just by lower the guitar's volume control.

Absolutely dependable. It's built like a tank.
I gig with it regularly. Never needed a backup yet. I HAVE had to run it straight into a PA when my amp had a few issues.

Never had an issue.

I play a variety of things. I have a cover band that I play out with for fun, but my primary project is a heavy, progressive thing. Think TooL, Pink Floyd, Filter, Alice in Chains, and Dream Theater in a blender on whip. I not only manage to get all the tones I need for covers, but I've been able to get tones with this that I've been trying for YEARS to get.

If it got stolen, I'm going hunting. Then I'm going to buy a new one with the money out of the thief's wallet.

I compared it to a number of other units from Digitech, Korg, ZOOM, and the others. The only real competition was the PODx3. Since I already use a TonePort UX2 for recording, I couldn't just to have XLR inputs on my pedalboard. There just wasn't enough of an improvement over the xtLive to justify the "upgrade". Not to mention, the x3 feels like a cheap toy.

One of my favorite things about this is that I can erase EVERY preset and replace it. I can save the factory tones, download more, create new ones, and do it all without having to sit on the floor staring at a tiny screen that only shows single digits. The only thing I can think of that I would REALLY love to have in there is a talk box.

it is so easy to use that i barely had to try when i was setting up all the patches this is amazing

there are lots of pre-set artists it was awesome and very many pre-sets

ive used this without a back up in my gigs and it hasnt worn out.... amazing

never had to call!! thank god

i play metal/ hard rock ive bveen using this for about 3 months and its been great to me i would get this produst over and over again i love all the pre-sets my favorite feture is the Computer download

I must admit it was allot easier using the Pod XT than my old Digitech RP 12. But to solve the problem of getting a perfect amp tone through my amp did take awhile of thinking. I am using ESP LTD guitars with EMG pickups.

This is how I run it and I have A/B switched to compare with actual amp and it is dead on. The first thing I did was start running diffrent inputs to my amps effects loop. The amp is a ENGL Fireball halfstack. The one that had the most power was running from the "phones" jack to the "receive" jack on effects loop. Then I used the "pad" switch to cut some high noise, nothing major. Then I set the effects loop to 75%. When I started with the tone I knew one thing do not go by any know knob position, use your ears, this is most likely what people have a problem with and I am also guilty. Note: I like to run The tube screamer with every amp model that is high gain. Note: make sure to use the compression - the pod I do not think automatlly add this in the model - around 3 is good. People complain of fizziness, what I noticed is I do not run high volume, around 1.5 to 2 on volume, so when I heard what I would consider very little fizziness I unplugged everything and ran my guitar strait in the amp, it was still there. What I figured out is I am using Vintage 30 speakers and if I do not run the volume to at least 2 or 2.5 the fizziness will be there. Just need to overdrive those speakers and it went away. Note: when you run this from phones jack to one input of effects loop you cannot channel select, you just made your amp into only a power amp.

Very reliable. No problems

Never had to use them.

I am not putting anyone down for saying "hey this thing sucks and has bad tone. It took me about a year to figure this out. I do not play often and try new things allot. I hope this can help some people when running this into a amp. I am sure you are wondering if I have an Engl Fireball why would I use this? I bought it for the effects, I am very pleased they work fine in effects loop and staight into amp front panel. Before someone says "You know when I run the POD XT LIve like this I cannot channel switch my amp, I didn't worry since I got the ENGL model perfect, anyways I just goof around at home.