Line 6 HX Stomp Multi Effects Processor User Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The Line 6 HX Stomp is a compact yet powerful multi-effects processor designed for guitarists and bassists. It integrates the acclaimed HX Modeling technology found in Line 6's flagship Helix processors, offering a vast array of authentic amp, cab, and effect models in a pedalboard-friendly format. This versatile unit can serve multiple roles in your setup, from a standalone 'super stompbox' to a comprehensive backup rig or an advanced audio interface for studio recording.

Its intuitive interface, featuring a clear color LCD and responsive footswitches, allows for easy navigation and real-time control. With extensive connectivity options, the HX Stomp is engineered to seamlessly integrate into any professional or home studio environment, providing unparalleled tonal flexibility and performance capabilities.

The Line 6 HX Stomp, a compact amp and effects processor, shown with a laptop, highlighting its digital integration.

2. Key Features

The HX Stomp is packed with features designed to provide comprehensive tone shaping and performance flexibility:

• HX Modeling Technology: Utilizes the same award-winning HX Modeling engine found in the Helix family of products, ensuring authentic and high-quality amp, cab, and effect emulations.
• Extensive Tone Library: Access over 300 effects and models, including a vast selection from Helix, M-Series, and legacy Line 6 products, offering a wide palette of sounds for any genre.
• Simultaneous Processing: Capable of running up to 6 simultaneous amp, cab, and effect blocks, including a looper and Impulse Response (IR) loading, allowing for complex signal chains.
• Intuitive Footswitches: Features 3 capacitive-sensing footswitches with color-coded LED rings, facilitating quick editing and clear visual feedback during live performance.
• Expandable Control: Includes a TRS dual expression pedal/footswitch input, enabling expanded creative control over parameters and functions.
• Flexible Effects Loop: A stereo effects loop (mono/stereo TRS send + stereo returns) allows for seamless integration with other external pedals, expanding your sonic possibilities.

The SHARC processor chip, the core of the HX Stomp's powerful modeling capabilities.

3. Product Components and Connections

Familiarize yourself with the physical layout and connectivity options of your HX Stomp.

Front Panel Controls:

• LCD Display: Color screen for navigating menus, viewing presets, and editing parameters.
• Navigation Knobs: Used for selecting categories, adjusting values, and confirming selections.
• Footswitches (1, 2, 3): Capacitive-sensing footswitches with color-coded LED rings for engaging/bypassing effects, changing presets, and other functions.
• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output volume.

Front view of the Line 6 HX Stomp, showing the display, control knobs, and three footswitches.

Rear Panel Connections:

• EXP 1/2 / FS 4/5: TRS input for connecting an external expression pedal or two additional footswitches.
• INPUT L/MONO, RIGHT: 1/4-inch inputs for your instrument (guitar, bass, etc.).
• OUTPUT L/MONO, RIGHT: 1/4-inch outputs for connecting to an amplifier, mixer, or audio interface.
• USB: USB-B port for connecting to a computer for firmware updates, HX Edit software control, and audio interface functionality.
• DC IN 9VDC 3A: Power input for the included power supply.

Rear view of the Line 6 HX Stomp, detailing the input, output, expression pedal, USB, and power connections.

Side Panel Connections:

• MIDI IN, OUT/THRU: 5-pin DIN connectors for MIDI control and integration with other MIDI-compatible devices.
• Headphone Output: 1/4-inch stereo output for monitoring your sound with headphones.
• SEND STEREO: 1/4-inch TRS output for the stereo effects loop send.
• RETURN/AUX IN L/MONO, RIGHT: 1/4-inch inputs for the stereo effects loop return or as auxiliary inputs.

Side view of the Line 6 HX Stomp, showing the MIDI In/Out/Thru and headphone jack.

Side view of the Line 6 HX Stomp, showing the stereo send and return/auxiliary input jacks.

4. Setup

Proper setup ensures optimal performance and integration of your HX Stomp into your audio chain.

Basic Connections:

1. Power Connection: Connect the included 9VDC 3A power supply to the DC IN jack on the rear panel. Plug the power supply into a suitable power outlet.
2. Instrument Input: Connect your guitar or bass to the INPUT L/MONO jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable. If using a stereo instrument, connect the right output to the RIGHT input.
3. Audio Output: Connect the OUTPUT L/MONO and RIGHT jacks to your amplifier, powered speakers, audio interface, or mixer using 1/4-inch cables. For mono operation, use only the L/MONO output.
4. Headphones: For silent practice or monitoring, connect your headphones to the Headphone Output on the side panel.

The Line 6 HX Stomp connected to an amplifier, demonstrating a typical setup for live performance or practice.

Advanced Connections:

• Effects Loop: To integrate external pedals into your HX Stomp's signal chain, connect the SEND STEREO jack to the input of your external pedal(s) and the output of your external pedal(s) to the RETURN/AUX IN L/MONO and RIGHT jacks.
• Expression Pedal/Footswitches: Connect an external expression pedal or additional footswitches to the EXP 1/2 / FS 4/5 jack for expanded real-time control.
• USB Connection: Connect the HX Stomp to your computer via the USB port to use it as an audio interface, manage presets with the HX Edit software, and perform firmware updates.
• MIDI Integration: Use the MIDI IN and OUT/THRU ports to control the HX Stomp with external MIDI devices or to send MIDI messages to other gear.

The Line 6 HX Stomp integrated into a larger pedalboard setup, showcasing its compact size and versatility alongside other effects pedals.

5. Operating Instructions

The HX Stomp offers a powerful yet accessible interface for creating and managing your tones.

Basic Operation:

1. Power On: Once all connections are made, power on the HX Stomp. The LCD display will illuminate.
2. Preset Navigation: Use the PAGE left/right buttons to scroll through presets. The display will show the preset name and active blocks.
3. Engaging/Bypassing Effects: Press the assigned footswitches to engage or bypass individual effects or entire signal paths within a preset. The LED rings around the footswitches indicate their status (e.g., color-coded for effect type).
4. Editing Parameters: Select a block on the display using the navigation knobs, then turn the knobs below the display to adjust parameters. Press the ACTION button to access additional options for the selected block.

A hand pressing one of the capacitive-sensing footswitches on the HX Stomp, demonstrating user interaction.

Using HX Edit Software:

For advanced editing, preset management, and Impulse Response (IR) loading, download and install the free HX Edit software from the Line 6 website. Connect your HX Stomp to your computer via USB.

• Intuitive Interface: HX Edit provides a visual drag-and-drop interface for building and modifying signal chains, adjusting parameters, and organizing presets.
• IR Loading: Easily load third-party Impulse Responses to expand your cabinet and microphone options.
• Backup and Restore: Create backups of your entire HX Stomp settings and restore them as needed.
• Firmware Updates: HX Edit is also used to perform firmware updates, ensuring your HX Stomp always has the latest features and improvements.

The HX Edit software interface displayed on a laptop screen, showing the graphical user interface for managing and editing tones on the HX Stomp.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Line 6 HX Stomp, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Regularly wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. For stubborn grime, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but ensure no moisture enters the jacks or controls. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Line 6 website for new firmware updates. These updates often include new features, bug fixes, and performance enhancements. Use the HX Edit software to perform updates.
• Storage: When not in use, store the HX Stomp in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. If transporting, use a padded case to protect it from physical damage.
• Cable Management: Ensure all cables are connected securely and are not under undue strain. Avoid kinking or bending cables sharply, as this can damage them over time.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your HX Stomp, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

No Sound or Low Output:

• Check Connections: Ensure all instrument, output, and power cables are securely connected to the correct jacks.
• Volume Levels: Verify that the HX Stomp's Volume knob is turned up, and that your amplifier or monitoring system's volume is also set appropriately.
• Preset Settings: Some presets may have low output levels or specific block settings that reduce volume. Try switching to a different preset or checking the output block's level.
• Bypass Mode: Ensure that the HX Stomp is not in a global bypass mode.

Distorted or Unwanted Noise:

• Input Level: Check your instrument's output level and the HX Stomp's input gain settings. Excessive input can cause clipping and distortion.
• Cables: Try swapping out instrument cables, as faulty cables can introduce noise.
• Power Supply: Ensure you are using the correct and original Line 6 power supply. Incorrect power supplies can cause noise or damage.
• Ground Loops: If experiencing hum, try connecting all audio equipment to the same power strip or using a ground loop isolator.

Footswitch Unresponsive:

• Recalibration: Refer to the full Line 6 HX Stomp manual for instructions on recalibrating footswitches if they become unresponsive.
• Firmware: Ensure your firmware is up to date, as software glitches can sometimes affect hardware responsiveness.

For more detailed troubleshooting or persistent issues, please visit the official Line 6 support website or consult the comprehensive online manual.

8. Specifications