Although most players will use the
POD more as a recording solution than
as a stompbox, you can navigate to a level
control to optimize output for use with an
amp. And when I routed the POD into
an amp this way, it responded in a manner
similar to plugging into a pedalboard and
then into an amp. For instance, rolling off
both the Stratocaster’s and the Les Paul’s
volume knobs really affected the drive of
the amp simulations in a way you’d expect
from pedals going into an amplifier.
The Verdict
Whether you’re recording or practicing, the
POD HD will likely deliver more than you
need—and provide you with a ton of options
you probably never would have considered
otherwise. For a lot of studio musicians who
like to work fast and on a budget, it could
easily become an indispensible recording
tool—something you’d grab if you could only
grab one device for one of those fabled des-ert-island scenarios. And for tone enthusiasts
who want a lot of variety at their fingertips,
the POD HD rivals or exceeds the ease of use
Creating your own presets
is simple, and the tweakability and customization
possibilities are virtually
endless. You don’t have to
be a gear wizard to find
a tone that’s suitable for
your project.
of many digital audio workstations (DAWs)
plug-ins—never mind that assembling the
same horsepower with plug-ins could be far
more expensive, and arguably less fun to use.
At $399, it may be a little steep for the more
informal project musician. But if you don’t
have access to a high-end studio overflowing
with vintage gear or even a higher quality
digital workstation with plug-ins to match
the POD HD’s menu, this is an investment
in inspiration and flexibility that could pay
itself off in no time.
Rating:
Buy If...
you love sonic tinkering and eschew
recording with DAWs and plug-ins.
Skip If...
only the real modeled devices will
do, or you have a complete DAW
with tons of plug-ins.
Line 6
Street $399
line6.com
or use a mobile device to download
audio clips of the POD HD at
CLICKHere…
