Line 6 HX One Stereo Multi-Effects Pedal
Line 6 distills 250+ Helix effects into a single-algorithm pedal-format box. Think of it as the spiritual successor to the M5, bringing HX-quality drives, modulation, delay, reverb, and pitch effects to players who want the sound but not the complexity of a full floor unit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Full Helix/HX Stomp algorithm quality in compact, pedalboard-friendly format—no sonic compromises
- +Over 250 effects covering every category from drives to pitch/synth—genuine Swiss Army knife utility
- +Stereo I/O with effects loop capability when running mono—flexible routing options
- +MIDI in/out via full-size 5-pin DIN (not mini TRS)—integrates properly with pro rigs
- +Expression pedal input allows deep real-time control of parameters including wah/filter effects
Cons
- −OLED screen is small and hard to read in dim stage lighting—menu diving on dark stages is frustrating
- −One effect at a time only—no stacking delays into reverbs like HX Stomp
- −User interface less intuitive than dedicated single-effect pedals—learning curve required
- −No amp modeling (by design, but worth noting if you're expecting Stomp-lite)
The Verdict
The 90/89 split between critics and community is basically unanimous: this is a killer pedal at a stupid-good price. MusicRadar and Guitar World both gave it 4.4-4.5 stars, and that zZounds user rating of 90 tracks perfectly. At $300, you’re getting Helix-quality algorithms that would cost thousands if you bought equivalent Strymon/Eventide pedals individually. The trade-off is the single-effect limitation and that tiny screen. Reddit users are right—it’s the “best multi modulation pedal in small form factor,” and the fact it does delays, reverbs, and pitch effects too is gravy. If you run a traditional pedalboard but want access to esoteric effects (reverse reverb, POG-style octaves, vintage tape delays) without buying 15 boutique pedals, this is the move. Just accept you’ll be scrolling through menus.
