Line 6 POD X3 Pro Guitar Multi Effects Processor Review

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(More customer reviews)Line6 gear is used by some of the biggest pros in the industry. Why then, is this unit which is labeled as "Pro" such a disappointment?
The GOOD: The sound is typical Line6. If you liked it before you will find it good now. The interface is a little confusing at first but can be learned quickly. There are knobs (and not just buttons) that allow adjustment of parameters in real time. The overall unit, although lightweight feels fairly sturdy. There are multiple inputs and even an effects loop in the unit itself for the addition of other effects.
The BAD: The knobs on the unit feel weak and spin freely as if they will fall off or break at any moment. Many of the presets while decent, sound similar. Effects are limited- if you buy this make sure you really need amp modeling and not just effects as the latter is lacking sorely and sound generic. There is a ton of hum generated by this thing. Doesn't matter if you lift the grounds, use it in front of the amp, in the loop or with the "4 cable" method. It hums and I could not stop it from humming badly.
While using mine the sound abruptly died more than once and resumed a few seconds later without explanation. Saved presets mysteriously disappeared and more than once I turned the unit on and was greeted by nothing but the blank orange screen...nothing else and no sound. While switching presets was typically silent there was on occasion a hiss or pop while switching. This was not typically a repeatable event which was even more frustrating.
The UGLY: Midi implementation is still not included fully in this "pro" unit. You might be able to change presets but your expression pedals probably won't work...even Line6's own FBV pedals do not fully work with this thing...is that a joke? The X3 Live folks have been waiting a year for full midi.
Upon ordering you are promised the full version of "Pod Farm Platinum" free by many sites. This is not without major catches. The software only runs as a VST plugin AND requires you use your unit as a giant "dongle" of sorts or Pod Farm won't work. So every time you want to use Pod Farm you'll need to drag a full size rack unit to your PC and hook it up...stupid.
Overall, if you really need good amp modeling and are running straight into a board or power amp then this unit might be for you. Most would be better served looking for another unit though. The PodXT is time-tested at this point and can be had cheaply on auction sites or here on Amazon. I would recommend that unit until this one is REALLY ready.

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