United States · Est. 1996
Line 6
Pioneers of digital amplifier modelling. The original Pod of 1998 forever changed how guitarists recorded and performed live.
About the brand
Line 6 was founded in 1996 in Calabasas, California by Marcus Ryle and Michel Doidic. The company developed digital amplifier modelling technology and popularised it with the Pod (1998), a small bean-shaped device that could simulate the sound of dozens of classic amplifiers. The Pod was the first modelling device with mass adoption and changed how millions of guitarists recorded.
The Pod XT, X3 and HD500 were successful successors. The Helix, launched in 2015, represented an enormous qualitative leap in both sound quality and usability, becoming the reference pedalboard processor for guitarists who need versatility without sacrificing professional tone.
Line 6 was acquired by Yamaha in 2014 and continues to lead the digital modelling segment. It also manufactures the Variax guitar (which models the sound of dozens of classic guitars) and wireless equipment. The Helix Floor, HX Stomp and HX Effects are currently among the most-used processors on stages worldwide.
Key facts
- Founded in 1996 — inventors of mass digital amplifier modelling
- Pod (1998): the first modelling device with global adoption
- Helix (2015): reference processor for professional live guitarists
- Acquired by Yamaha in 2014
Iconic models
POD 2.0
The bean-shaped processor that democratised amplifier modelling and forever changed the way guitarists record and rehearse.
Helix Floor
Line 6's most complete modelling processor, with an intuitive large touchscreen interface and near-unlimited signal routing capabilities for stage and studio.
Helix LT
A lighter and more accessible version of the Helix Floor that retains the same HX processing engine with slightly reduced build and connectivity.
POD Go
The entry-level HX processor designed to be Line 6's simplest all-in-one solution, ideal for musicians who want Helix quality without the complexity.
HX Stomp
The compact three-switch processor with the full HX engine, a favourite among minimalist musicians who want Helix quality in the smallest possible footprint.