Line 6 POD HD - DT Series L6 LINK Connectivity Guide

Using L6 LINK for Audio & Control Connectivity Between POD HD300/400/500/Pro Devices & DT Series Amplifiers

Overview

This guide covers the revolutionary L6 LINK™ technology created by Line 6 to intelligently connect Line 6 POD® HD300, HD400, HD500 or HD Pro devices to Line 6 DT50™ & DT25™ amplifiers. This technology offers a seamless way to integrate amplifiers and effects into a highly customizable rig.

Note: L6 LINK can also be used to connect POD HD devices to Line 6 StageSource™ speakers, or a mix of DT amps and StageSource speakers. For more information, refer to the additional POD HD documentation available at www.line6.com/support/manuals/.

POD HD + DT

Designed by tube amp expert Reinhold Bogner, the Line 6 DT Series amplifiers combine reconfigurable analog components with HD modeling technology for exceptional versatility. These amplifiers can function as standalone 2-channel guitar amplifiers or integrate with Line 6 devices like the POD HD series via the L6 LINK connection.

The connection involves using an L6 LINK input on the DT amplifier, which receives digital audio and control signals from the POD HD device.

Image Description: A diagram showing a Line 6 DT50 amplifier and a Line 6 POD HD500 connected via L6 LINK cables. The diagram illustrates the flow of Digital Audio and Control signals between the devices.

L6 LINK Technology

L6 LINK technology utilizes a single XLR cable for both audio streaming and bidirectional data transfer between a L6 LINK-equipped POD HD device and DT amplifier(s). The DT amplifier automatically adapts its analog components to precisely match the POD HD amp and preamp model settings. These settings can be customized and saved as part of the POD HD preset for instant recall.

Line 6 Monkey™ and POD HD Edit Software

It is highly recommended to install and use Line 6 Monkey software to ensure your POD HD and DT Series amplifiers have the latest firmware and updates. Line 6 Monkey is available for free download at http://line6.com/software/.

POD HD Edit is a software editor/librarian that allows for easy customization, backup, storage, and sharing of POD HD Presets on Mac® or Windows® computers. It also provides access to the DT amplifier's Voicing parameters, enabling users to view, edit, and recall these settings for their POD HD + DT Series amp setup. POD HD Edit can be accessed via Line 6 Monkey or downloaded directly from http://line6.com/software/.

POD HD300 & POD HD400 Connectivity

The POD HD300 and POD HD400 devices can connect to up to two DT amplifiers using L6 LINK, enabling spacious stereo sound through separate Left and Right POD HD audio channels. Refer to page 2.1 for more information on these devices.

POD HD500 & POD HD Pro Connectivity

The POD HD500 and POD HD Pro devices can connect to up to four DT Series amplifiers. This allows for advanced configurations, including assigning POD HD output channels and dual Amp Models' audio signals independently among the DT amps. Refer to page 3.1 for more information on these devices.

The Dream Rig

The POD HD500 and POD HD Pro feature a Variax® Digital Interface (VDI) input, supporting Line 6 Variax guitar and bass instruments. Combining a James Tyler® Variax® guitar, a POD HD500 or HD Pro, and a DT Series amp creates "The Dream Rig." This setup not only offers amp and FX modeling and L6 LINK connectivity but also allows customization of the Variax guitar's modeling and alternate tuning features, all saved within each POD Preset. This enables a single footswitch to reconfigure FX, analog amp components, guitar model, and tuning.

For more information on James Tyler Variax guitars, visit http://line6.com/guitars#jamestylervariax.

Image Description: A photograph of a Line 6 "Dream Rig" setup, featuring a James Tyler Variax guitar, a Line 6 POD HD500, and a Line 6 DT Series amplifier.

POD HD300 & POD HD400 Quick Start

To set up your POD HD300/HD400 with a DT Series amp:

  1. Ensure all devices are powered off.
  2. Switch the POD HD OUTPUT MODE to LIVE for optimal audio signal to the DT amp. The switch is located on the back of the POD HD300/HD400.
  3. Connect an XLR cable from the POD HD L6 LINK jack to the DT amp's L6 LINK IN jack. The quality of the XLR cable can affect performance.
  4. Power on the POD HD and select a favorite Preset. Enter Edit Mode and choose "Preamp" for the AMP:Model option. This loads the Preamp version of the Amp Model, recommended for external tube amps.
  5. Power on the DT amp. It should automatically detect the POD HD and set itself to Channel A.
  6. Play your guitar to hear the POD HD tone through the DT amplifier.
  7. Adjust the Amp Tone knobs on the POD HD or Channel A of the DT amp; these controls work in sync.

Connecting Two DT Series Amplifiers

To connect a second DT50 or DT25 amp, use another XLR cable from the first amp's L6 LINK THRU jack to the second amp's L6 LINK IN jack. This enables stereo operation, with the first DT amp receiving the POD HD left channel audio and the second receiving the right channel.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating the connection of two DT Series amplifiers to a POD HD device using L6 LINK cables. The diagram shows the signal flow for stereo operation.

When using POD HD with two connected amps, the second amp (DT50/DT25 #2) typically follows the settings of the first amp (DT50/DT25 #1) for most adjustments.

Note: Multiple DT Series amps can be connected using L6 LINK without a POD HD, synchronizing controls across all DT amps. Refer to the DT Series amplifier documentation for details.

DT Series Amp - Channel A & B Operation

The DT Series amps automatically switch between Channels A and B based on the POD HD Amp Model's On/Off state. When the POD HD Amp Model is "On," the DT amp switches to Channel A, and its controls operate in tandem with the POD HD. When the POD HD Amp Model is "Off" (or set to "None"), the DT amp switches to Channel B, operating independently with its own preamp and tonestack modeling.

Channel A:

Channel B:

The DT amplifier's CH A/B switch on the front panel can also be used to toggle between Channels A and B. The POD HD AMP switch light indicates when Channel A is active. If two DT Series amps are connected, both amps' Channels toggle simultaneously.

POD HD Rear Panel Connections & Options

The back panel of the POD HD300/400 offers several connections and switchable options that affect L6 LINK connectivity:

  1. CD/MP3 Input: Audio sources connected here feed the analog outputs (Unbalanced, Balanced, and Phones) and are affected by the POD HD Master Volume knob. This audio is not sent to the L6 LINK output.
  2. Balanced, Unbalanced & Phones Outputs: These analog outputs remain available and can be used simultaneously with an L6 LINK connection. Their level is controlled by the POD HD Master Volume knob, not the L6 LINK - DT amp level.
  3. Output Mode Options: The Output Mode switch affects the signal fed to all POD HD analog outputs. When the DT amp is in Channel A operation, the signal fed from POD HD to the DT amp is also affected by this switch.

Note: The LIVE setting is recommended for L6 LINK connections to DT Series amplifiers, but experimentation with STUDIO settings (which include different Cab/Mic/EQ for direct recording) is encouraged.

Diagram Description: A diagram of the POD HD300/400 rear panel, highlighting the CD/MP3 Input, Balanced/Unbalanced/Phones Outputs, and Output Mode switch.

FX Loop (POD HD400 Only): The POD HD400's FX Loop can be utilized with any Preset when using the L6 LINK connection.

USB Audio: All USB audio is muted when the POD HD300/400 L6 LINK connection is active. However, USB MIDI functionality remains active, allowing use of the POD HD Edit software or access to the device's USB MIDI In/Out ports.

POD HD500 & POD HD Pro Quick Start

To set up your POD HD500/HD Pro with a DT Amp:

Connecting Two or More DT Series Amplifiers

To connect additional DT Series amps, use an XLR cable from the first amp's L6 LINK THRU jack to the next amp's L6 LINK IN jack. Up to four DT Series amps can be connected in series.

Diagram Description: A diagram showing the connection of up to four DT Series amplifiers to a POD HD500 or HD Pro via L6 LINK cables.

When multiple DT amps are connected and synced via L6 LINK, POD HD Amp Models and all DT Series amps can be synchronized.

Note: Multiple DT Series amps can be connected using L6 LINK without a POD HD, synchronizing controls across all DT amps. Refer to the DT Series amplifier documentation for details.

Configuring the Audio Signal Fed to each DT Series Amp

The POD HD500/HD Pro SETUP - L6 LINK screens allow independent configuration of L6 LINK audio signals and control/sync behaviors for up to 4 DT Series amps.

The SETUP - L6 LINK:AUDIO screen allows selection of POD HD audio routings, with settings saved per POD HD Preset.

Image Description: A screenshot of the POD HD SETUP - L6 LINK:AUDIO screen, showing options for routing audio to DT amps.

Note: If a Preset has only one Amp Block, "Amp B" does not exist. In this case, "Amp Model B" options in the Setup screen will output the signal from the end of Path B to the respective DT Series amp.

The System MIDI Channel

L6 LINK utilizes MIDI communication for control data (knob positions, power amp Voicing settings, etc.) between POD HD500/HD Pro and DT Series amps. The POD HD SETUP - MIDI/TEMPO screen allows setting the "System" MIDI Channel.

Image Description: A screenshot of the POD HD SETUP - MIDI/TEMPO screen, showing the "System" MIDI Channel selector.

Changing the System MIDI Channel affects the L6 LINK:CONTROL screen settings. It is recommended to set the System MIDI Channel first, then configure L6 LINK:CONTROL options.

Configuring the Control Options for Each DT Series Amp

The SETUP - L6 LINK:CONTROL options determine the "sync" behavior between POD HD500/HD Pro and each connected DT Series amp. Setting Control parameters to the same MIDI Channel allows for synchronized control, such as a mono backline setup.

Image Description: A screenshot of the POD HD500/HD Pro SETUP - L6 LINK:CONTROL screen, showing configuration options for multiple DT amps.

Note: This option also allows control of DT amplifiers by a third-party MIDI controller by setting the controller to the same MIDI Channel and connecting it directly to the DT amp's 5-pin MIDI IN.

Additional L6 LINK Control Behaviors

When SETUP - L6 LINK:CONTROL is set to AMP A or AMP B, the following "sync" behaviors apply between the POD HD Amp Model and Channel A of the respective DT Series amplifier:

DT Series Amplifier - Channel A & B Operation

When SETUP - L6 LINK:CONTROL options AMP 1 through AMP 4 are set to "AMP A" or "AMP B," the respective DT amp(s) automatically switch between Channels A & B based on the POD HD Amp Model A or B's On/Off state.

Toggling the front panel DT amp Channel A/B switch (or using the Channel A/B footswitch) will toggle the corresponding POD HD Amp Model A or B On/Off in response.

Diagram Description: A diagram showing the controls for Channel A and Channel B on a DT50 amplifier, including the Channel A/B toggle switch.

Multiple DT Amp Setup Examples

L6 LINK possibilities with POD HD and multiple DT amps allow for a variety of rig configurations.

Note: The following examples use POD HD500 and DT50 amplifiers, but POD HD Pro and DT25 amplifiers can be substituted.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating a stereo setup with two DT amps connected to a POD HD500 via L6 LINK, showing the flow of digital audio and control signals.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating a Wet/Dry/Wet setup with three DT amps connected to a POD HD500 via L6 LINK, including a James Tyler Variax guitar.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating a double stereo setup with four DT amps connected to a POD HD500 via L6 LINK, including a James Tyler Variax guitar.

POD HD500 & POD HD Pro Connections & Options

The back panels of the POD HD500 and POD HD Pro offer various connections and switchable options that influence L6 LINK connectivity.

Diagram Description: Diagrams of the POD HD500 and POD HD Pro rear panels, showing various input and output connections including L6 LINK, USB, MIDI, FX Loop, and Variax inputs.

Input Sources:

Outputs:

Note: For an analog direct output from a POD HD + DT amp rig to a Front-Of-House or recording system, use the DIRECT OUT on the back of the DT amp (see page 4.6).

The SPDIF and AES/EBU (HD Pro only) digital outputs carry a POD HD-processed signal, determined by the SETUP:DIGITAL OUTPUT screen. The AES/EBU | L6 LINK Output is a dual-purpose connection for either AES/EBU digital audio or L6 LINK output. The HD Pro SETUP:DIGITAL OUTPUT screen settings do not affect the audio signal during an L6 LINK - DT amp connection.

USB: USB functionality remains fully functional during an L6 LINK connection, allowing simultaneous use of the POD HD Pro Edit software.

FX LOOP: External devices connected within the FX Loop are incorporated into the audio output fed to L6 LINK.

FBV (POD HD Pro only): A Line 6 FBV™ Series Foot Controller can be connected for remote control of POD HD Pro functions, with or without an active L6 LINK connection. The FBV can also be used as a MIDI controller.

MIDI IN/OUT: POD HD500 & HD Pro can send and receive MIDI control messages via MIDI DIN connections, even when L6 LINK is active. Refer to the POD HD Advanced Guides for details.

Note: While using L6 LINK with DT Series amplifiers, the MIDI connection is not necessary for control communication, as it is automatically routed via L6 LINK. However, DT amplifier functions can still be accessed and configured via MIDI. Refer to the "Line 6 DT Series Amplifiers - MIDI Implementation Guide" available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/.

DT Series Amplifiers

This chapter covers parameters and features of Line 6 DT Series amplifiers relevant to L6 LINK connection with POD® HD300/400/500 or HD Pro devices. It also includes tips for controlling DT Series amps via MIDI.

DT Series Amp Parameters

Descriptions of parameters specific to the DT50 and DT25 amplifiers:

When using L6 LINK, the amps' analog components adapt to match the classic amplifiers upon which each POD HD Amp or Preamp Model is based. These settings can also be manually adjusted for customized amp tone.

Diagram Description: Diagrams illustrating the Tube Power Amp Parameters for the DT50 and DT25 amplifiers, highlighting controls like Voicing Switch, Class AB - A Switch, Pentode/Triode Switch, Master Volume, and Low Volume Mode Switch.

Note: DT amp parameters are not accessible via POD HD screens; use the amp's front panel controls. These settings are sent to POD HD via L6 LINK and saved with the POD HD Preset.

  1. Voicing Switch: Offers 4 Negative Feedback Loop Topology Modes to emulate different classic tube amplifiers. Each Voicing Mode affects the amp's responsiveness and distortion characteristics, with its own gain amount. Changing the Voicing switch while using a POD HD Preamp Model will alter tonality and volume.
    • Position I: High Negative Feedback for a "tight" clean sound.
    • Position II: Medium Negative Feedback for a more "loose" feel.
    • Position III: Zero Negative Feedback for slightly more distortion and an "open" sound.
    • Position IV: "Modern" Negative Feedback providing zero feedback on low frequencies but "loose" feedback on mids and upper frequencies.
  2. Class AB - A Switch: Toggles the DT amplifier's Bias type, wattage, and operating class.
    • DT50: Up - Fixed Bias, 50 watts, Class AB. Down - Cathode biased, 25 watts, Class A.
    • DT25: Up - Fixed Bias, 25 watts, Class AB. Down - Cathode biased, 10 watts, Class A.
  3. Pentode/Triode Switch: Toggles the state of the DT amplifier's power tubes.
    • Up (PENTODE): Higher power mode with a "tighter" and "punchier" response, brighter high end, preferable for high volume playing.
    • Down (TRIODE): Lower power mode with a "softer" feel and less brilliant high end response, resulting in an overall volume decrease compared to Pentode.

DT Amp Parameter Usage Tips

The analog circuitry of the DT Series amplifiers allows for extensive reconfiguration. Experiment with different settings, and consider these tips for understanding amplifier options and combining them with POD HD Amp Models:

POD HD Preamp Models vs. Full Amp Models:

Class AB vs. Class A:

About Preset Loading and DT50 Amp Settings:

Due to higher voltage components in DT50 amplifiers, amplifier changes may not be instantaneous. For seamless Preset switching during live performance, use the same amp Voicing switch settings for both Presets. For more significant reconfigurations, follow these tips:

Note: DT25 amplifiers use lower voltage components, making setting changes less affected. However, these practices can still be applied if Preset changes are not seamless.

Additional DT Series Amplifier Features

The following features are available on the DT amplifier in Channel A or B, offering additional sonic options when used with POD HD Tones. Refer to DT50 or DT25 documentation for more details.

Diagram Description: Diagrams of the DT50 and DT25 rear panels, highlighting features such as Footswitch, MIDI Input/Out, Effect Loop, and Direct Out.

  1. Footswitch: Connect an optional footswitch pedal to toggle the DT amplifier's Channel A/B switch. The DT amplifier's Channel state is saved within the current POD HD Preset.
  2. MIDI Input/Out: The DT amplifier's MIDI INPUT and MIDI OUT DIN connections, along with MIDI Send & Receive features, remain functional when the POD HD - L6 LINK connection is active.
  3. DT Amplifier Effect Loop: The SEND and RETURN jacks are for the analog, series EFFECT LOOP. POD HD Preset Tones fed through effects connected here will pass through the DT amp's power amp stage.
  4. Direct Out: The DT amplifier's DIRECT OUT functions as an analog output with L6 LINK in use. This XLR output is recommended for feeding a "fully baked" POD HD + DT amp tone to an external recorder or mixing console. The audio signal fed to the DT amp via L6 LINK is mono, and this Direct Out is also mono. The Direct Out functionality differs based on the DT amp's LOW VOLUME MODE and STANDBY switch settings:
    • Low Volume Mode Off, Amp in Standby = Direct Out is disabled.
    • Low Volume Mode On, Amp in Standby = Direct Out signal is the "Full" (preamp + power amp) Amp Model without analog amp, suitable for "silent recording."
    • Low Volume Mode Off, Amp On (not in Standby) = Direct Out signal is the "Preamp" Amp Model with the analog amp.
    • Low Volume Mode On, Amp On (not in Standby) = Direct Out signal is the "Full" Amp Model and the analog amp.

Note: MIDI DIN connection is not necessary for control communication when POD HD is connected via L6 LINK, as it's routed automatically. However, DT amplifier functions can be accessed and configured via MIDI. Refer to the "Line 6 DT Series Amplifiers - MIDI Implementation Guide" available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/.

MIDI Implementation

When using L6 LINK with DT Series amplifiers, MIDI connection is not required for control communication, as it is automatically routed via L6 LINK. However, DT amplifier functions can be accessed and configured via MIDI. Refer to the "Line 6 DT Series Amplifiers - MIDI Implementation Guide," available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/.

Image Description: A photograph of a Line 6 DT Series amplifier and a Line 6 POD HD500.

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L6 LINK Connectivity Guide for POD HD & DT Amplifiers v2.10 - English ( Rev A ) Adobe PDF Library 9.9

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