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Posted by: muntahunta Dec 5 2007, 03:30 AM

Hey, I tried to write a POD XT/X3 guide on this forum but then relised it was too big of a project for how much time I had.

This thread is here for anyone to ask ANYTHING about the POD XT/X3.
I know quite alot about the POD XT/X3 due to practicing, gigging and recording (guitars/bass/vocals) with it.
Anything I cant answer i'm sure someone else will know.

Here is a link to the old thread I made which includes a list of all the POD XT models: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=7899&hl=pod+xt

If you have any questions about the POD XT/X3, this is the place to post them.

Cheers
Chris

Posted by: Smurkas Dec 5 2007, 03:33 AM

As an ex podder I'm really interested in how the new X3 sounds compared to the old XT. The main reason I gave away my XT was because I never was really satisfied with the sounds I could get out of it, especially when I tried for more dynamic sounds. From what I've read the X3 is a total revision of the hardware so I'm really curious about how it sounds.


/Marcus

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 5 2007, 03:41 AM

weeeeell.
there are differences in the sounds of the X3, the ability to change the order of your setup (delay>volume>reverb>wah>etc) is a great addition (the XT only allowed a couple of things to be changed).
I could record the same patch on the XT and X3 if you wanted and upload them, but to be honest there wouldnt be a great difference as it wouldnt be taking advantage of the new features involved.
The BEST feature on the X3 is the ability to use 2 different settings at the same time with the added option of outputting them through 2 seperate outputs. It gives the X3 so much more versatility.

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 6 2007, 03:37 PM

yo muntahunta! I´ve got the X3. Haven´t really explored that much yet because it´s new. But I´ve very briefly to see if I got input signal recorded some guitar and some song. Like I said I haven´t really checked all there is to check yet but the song was awfully much lower input on then the guitar. The volume seemed to be up though.

it´s not the best mic in the world but you might know something that will make the recording better? Some boost of any kind I´m not yet familiar with? peace out

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 6 2007, 10:34 PM

im not quite sure what you mean. but im guessing that your trying to record with a microphone plugged into your X3 using the microphone preamps.

if thats the case then the master volume and the effect volume can both make a difference. if both of these are turned up then there is also a way to increase the dB (this can go + or - depending on what your wanting)

if you could explain your problem a little better then i may be able to help. another thing that would help would be to know if you have the Live version or the normal version

Cheers
Chris

Posted by: Toni Suominen Dec 7 2007, 02:01 PM

Hi muntahunta!

I have the podxt and I was just wondering if the podxt 3 already has any kind of upgradeable model packs like the podxt??

-Toni

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 8 2007, 02:46 PM

it has the model packs built in and more. theres no need to buy any addon packs and Line 6 have said they dont plan on making any for the X3.
the list of amps/cabs/effects can be found http://uk.line6.com/podx3/amps.html

the X3 includes bass models and Mic preamps aswell as the guitar models.

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 15 2007, 11:55 AM

I think my x3 broke... :/ When recording a synth effect is on but on low volume.. Kind of like only the reverb for the actual syntheffect.. And the same when I have my phones on... However, on line out/live out there is not of that... So i can play with amp but not with phones / record stuff.... The syntheffect like when you hit a note it plays like a synthmelody... sort of... it´s on all the presets. It couldn´t be I hit some buttons acidently right? since it´s not sounding on live out... right?

Posted by: jean-mi Dec 15 2007, 12:23 PM

hey all,

we have a discussion here too....

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=8438&pid=101043&st=0&#entry101043

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 15 2007, 11:55 PM

well, im guessing what youve done is changed the settings on the output. check that either of the tones arent on "Mute" or that youve got them sending to the left or right outputs (unless your using both outputs)

Posted by: jammer91 Dec 22 2007, 07:55 PM

Hi Munta, I just got a POD XTL but am having major difficulties using it. I cant even ge a single sound out of my amp. Can you please help me?

Heres the link to the thread:
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=9795&pid=105489&st=0&#entry105489

Thanks

Posted by: AudunESP Dec 22 2007, 08:30 PM

What is the best way of getting good sound with Pod X3 when recording?
- just plug the pod to the pc and record
or
-plug it through an external sound card, audio control 1 for my case

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 22 2007, 08:37 PM

I don´t think I did that. Why would a "broken" synthmodule be playing even with silence from the guitar on all presets. And only thru USB and headphones. Not thru speakers. weird...
Anyhow I reinstalled all that can be done and after that it was okay again. It took 2-3 times of flashing the memory until it was good though.

Posted by: jean-mi Dec 22 2007, 10:00 PM

I use it with satisfaction just pluged to the pc (record via usb or line in)
the sound is clean and as the original

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 23 2007, 05:34 PM

so its all fixed now then?



this depends on all the equipment you have. if your sound card is a proffessional sound card then thats probably the best way to go. but the USB works fine either way. trial and error is the best way to find these things out

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 27 2007, 03:51 AM

Hey Muntahunta, Just bought myself the X3, Was wondering if i can still download Patches like Marcus' Solo patch, without any trouble, i would just try to do it, but i forgot to buy a powerchord while i was out

Just checking to make sure

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 27 2007, 09:43 PM

well, you can download the POD XT patches and send them to you X3 via Line6 Monkey. but at the moment there isnt a way to download patches straight to your X3. you have to download the patch to your computer then send the patch to the X3 through line 6 monkey.
Line 6 have said they have plans for some sort of download mechanism for the X3 but its nowhere near done yet.

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 28 2007, 12:47 AM

Second question, i installed Line 6 monkey, but when i go to install the drivers it doesnt work, heres what happens.

--Open Line6 Monkey
--Go to updates tab
--click on drivers
--click update selection
--go through the installation process, at the end of which it tells me to connect my POD X3 Live, and run "Found New Hardware Wizard", but when i run the wizard, it seems to install, but when the progress bar fills up, it says cannot install (Code 10)

any help is much appreciated.

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 01:34 AM

the only thing i can suggest is checking out the Line6 FAQ on their website and also their forums. ill do a quick scan for you now, see what i come up with.

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 01:53 AM

ok, i have had a quick scan through the Line6 forums and heres the answers i have come up with.

PROBLEM
if your computer is running USB1.0 it wont work (i doubt it if you have a fairly new computer)
SOLUTION
try get a USB1.0-USB2.0 convertor

PROBLEM
you are connecting throught a USB1.0 hub
SOLUTION
to test if your connecting through a 1.0 hub, try plugging straight into the computer. if it works, get a USB2.0 hub.
ALSO
make sure your using a USB2.0 cable, just use the one out of the box

PROBLEM
You are running a windows 64-bit operating system, sometimes the drivers dont work with this.
SOLUTION
i have no idea

PROBLEM
Line6 Monkey not up to date
SOLUTION
get the latest one

PROBLEM
the POD X3 flash drives arent updated
SOLUTION
get them updated via line6 money... however i cant see this being a viable option due to the fact you cant connect to line 6 monkey. just thought i'd put this here just incase

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 28 2007, 01:58 AM

Thanks, i think i know what to do now

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 02:00 AM

yea, im guessing its the USB thing, it seems more common than the rest of the problems

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 28 2007, 02:47 AM

So this should fix up my problem?

http://www.staples.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StaplesProductDisplay?&langId=-1&storeId=10001&catalogId=10051&productId=139531&cmArea=SEARCH

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 28 2007, 12:38 PM

Quite possibly - what about this bit though?

----If you are running Windows XP then you can verify if you have 2.0 ports on your computer by right clicking on My Computer/Manage/Device Manager/Universal Serial Bus Controllers.----

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 01:04 PM

that link tells me to enter my zip code but i dont live in america lol.

as for the checking thing, im not sure if that works or not, someone mentioned it on the line6 forums so i thought i'd put it up just incase... infact i'll check now.

ok, i have checked the device manager (theres a different way to finding it than it says) and it has no 1.0 or 2.0 so i'll take that out of the original post incase someone else needs some help.

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 28 2007, 01:09 PM

The link was to a USB2.0 hub, which should do the job fine, but I was curious if TheUncreator had USB1.0 or 2.0 on his motherboard - if it is 1.0 the Pod would be a little slow for recording audio and might not work at all, and he could benefit from a USB2.0 card in there (although no PCs have had USB1.0 on the motherboard fo I would guess 5 years or so)

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 01:49 PM

your right, alot of people seem to have a problem with USB 1.0 using X3's. mainly that the driver doesnt work properly.
try plugging straight into your computer instead of through a HUB, if that doesnt work you need to upgrade your USB ports or buy a USB2.0 card. either way it cant be very expensive.

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 28 2007, 02:05 PM

Also, bandwidth can be a concern with USB1.0

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 28 2007, 02:24 PM

Ok, just because its not expensive, ill go for the new card.

I guess this should do it, a USB 2.0 PCI Card, adds USB 2.0 Ports and Firewire support. (Don't think ill need the Firewire though)
http://www.staples.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StaplesProductDisplay?&langId=-1&storeId=10001&catalogId=10051&productId=161231&cmArea=SEARCH

If it says zip code just type in 33713

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 28 2007, 02:54 PM

Yep, that should do it - and the firewire may come in useful if you ever get a video camera

I assume you have checked that you have a spare PCI slot?

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 28 2007, 03:55 PM

Of course!!

Ok i went down to the local staples store, bought the card, installed all the drivers for the card, and everythign is working great now, thanks alot guys!!

EDIT

Only ended up costing me $40 USD (Thank god for after christmas sales )

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 04:01 PM

woohoo, glad to see things are goin good

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 28 2007, 04:38 PM

Excellent news - looking forward to your first recording

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 28 2007, 04:59 PM

I gotta wait awhile before i can afford the software im lookign at, so im messing around with reaper until then.

Ill try to get something up, i still cant believe recording with the POD Is THIS EASY!!!!

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 28 2007, 05:24 PM

yup, brilliant aint it

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 28 2007, 06:41 PM

What software are you saving up for? Reaper is as good as anything else out there and far cheaper - the expensive parts are all the virtual instruments ...

Posted by: The Uncreator Dec 29 2007, 02:32 AM

Yes i noticed after a few hours with Reaper i might not even buy anything else.

Hey, does anyone else think it would be a cool idea if we had a thread for custom made Tones for POD XT/X3, Made by users, i thought it would be cool.

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 29 2007, 03:56 AM

Definitely!

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 29 2007, 05:40 PM

do it!

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 30 2007, 03:45 PM

I´m having problems with recording voice. I can´t get any volume.. :/
I turned up all volume I can find. Set the tone volume on 100% and I turned on the compressor which made it sound like 5 times louder without distorting it too much and I still get like 1 / 10 of the volume I get when I plug in the guitar via x3 for instance. So if I lay down some vocals you can not hear it unless you mute all other instruments and have high volume.... What to do? My mic is Sennheiser e825S if that helps.. Don´t think it´s a fantom powered one. I worked good in the rehearsal room a couple of years ago when I used it.

EDIT: Forget about my input mic problem.. I found the sollution on line 6´s homepage

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 30 2007, 04:04 PM

Mics are usually very low output compared to other devices, and you usually need a Mic amplifier for them - what are you plugging into? If its a regular soundcard you won't get good results I am afraid.

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 30 2007, 04:34 PM

I´m using my x3 voice preamp... Since the thread is about xt and x3

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 30 2007, 04:50 PM

Just thought I'd check, since the XT doesn't have a Voice preamp - no need to be smart about it

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 30 2007, 05:05 PM

The smiley doesn´t seem to happy.. I agree, you do not get the feeling I was looking for..
Not trying to be smart.. Maby funny, I don´t know.. hehe.

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Dec 30 2007, 05:13 PM

No problem - I always think the smiley looks like a wiseass

Your Mic is dynamic so, no, it doesn't need phantom power, I don't have an X3 so can't help any further I am afraid.

Posted by: Mackietao Dec 31 2007, 01:58 PM

Forget about my input mic problem.. I found the sollution on line 6´s homepage

Posted by: muntahunta Dec 31 2007, 05:45 PM

im glad you found the answer to your problem. sorry i couldnt get here earlier

im willing to guess that it was the tiny little knob next to the XLR input that was turned down.

Posted by: skipdaflip Mar 25 2008, 12:19 PM

I posted the question in the Gear Forum, before that I found your thread. So here the link to my question.
Perhaps you can help me out!

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=13535&hl=pod+x3

Posted by: MickeM Mar 25 2008, 02:47 PM

Are there any drivers for win2000 for the X3?

Installing the drivers on my comp with X3 was a challange even, but succeeded.
Then tried them on a compueter with win2000 since I wanted options on which comp to use, but that didn't go well at all.

Posted by: muntahunta Mar 26 2008, 08:25 AM

mickie i have no idea if theres a driver for win2000 but i will check for ya...

and skip, i see youve found the answer, too bad i wasnt fast enough



ok, ive checked on the line6 site and forums and most ppl on the forums seem to think it doesnt support win2000 but some ppl have managed to get it to work although there are only a small few that have.

Posted by: MickeM Mar 26 2008, 08:49 AM

Thanks, I just couldnt't find any but in they don't exist at all they would be a problem to find of course ;-)

Posted by: skipdaflip Mar 26 2008, 09:09 AM

It's OK... I will think of another question about the POD X3 to let you brain storm on it...

thnxz dude for you support on the X3

Posted by: muntahunta Mar 26 2008, 09:20 AM

no problemo

Posted by: MickeM Mar 26 2008, 05:45 PM

I can't help to notice how popular the POD's are so to make it easier for everyone to find this topic I've pinned it. At the same time I realize I'm making it harder on muntahunta who (I hope) will get more questions in this thread.

So thanks again for sharing your knowledge with us!

Posted by: muntahunta Mar 27 2008, 03:52 PM

wayhey, i'd be more than happy to help if i can

Posted by: mattacuk Mar 27 2008, 06:45 PM

hey POD fans!

Im just in the process of buying a new Guitar, either an RG550 20th Anniversary or a PGM301.

Im currently playing through a Korg Pandora which is great value for money, but am considering a POD X3. I really want to start recording and produceing my own compositions

Is it in your opinion worth the upgrade? the Pandora is a littlse noisey sometimes.


Thoughts appreciated

Posted by: MickeM Mar 27 2008, 07:10 PM

I'm a POD fan!!! ;-)

I've been so disappointed with earlier digital effects and somewhere in the mid or late 90's I gave up and just went with tube amps all the way.
So I still was a bit skeptical when I went to try out the X3 Live, in the shop he run it through an amp and concidering everything I read here before about - don't run it in front of an amp; I counted that in, while it still sounded quite good.

With headphones on when I got home I got started on the tweaking immediately since the presets blowed. Completely useless most of them! So to get the hands on a Cornforn 50 amp, one 5150 a couple of mesas (which I'm not sure yet how to tweak the best), a Powerball and a couple of Matchless... and they sound GREAT!
Baby I'm in digital heaven. Get one! And get the Live, it's got more connections and the Wah/Volume. You can get a pedalboard for the other one too but the price will end up the same I belive.

I havn't yet tried it throuhg a PA but I have recorded with it and it's teriffic, as a audio interface it's great, i'm not sure I have to get a new sound card even. I was going to since my old Guitarport didn't cut it and the internal one well haha

I recommend one!

Posted by: mattacuk Mar 27 2008, 07:57 PM

Well if you like it - must be great i think ill get just the standard Pod X3 because its alot cheaper

Hopefully then i can use all of Marcus and kris's cool patches

Posted by: Maximus Mar 27 2008, 10:44 PM

Matt, I recently purchased the POD X3 Live and It is awesome. It has bass, acoustic and vocal support also. You will spend untold hours tweaking the endless assortment of mods, effects, amps and cabs. It does great with recording via many outputs. I use USB directly into my computer. I am getting ready to get an Atomic Reactor Amp for non headphone playing. I had the opportunity to try one out this week and It is great. It's a tube amp made especially for modelers. Check out the link below. If you call the company or send an email it is the owner of the company who actually talks to you. His name is Tom and he's a wealth of info. Let us know what you get. Good Luck.

http://www.atomicamps.com/

Check out the sound samples on the Atomic MySpace page. There's a song sample called EuphoriaNoMore4Ya on there that is catchy as hell. I ve been woking on that ditty for a few days now. Very cool.

Posted by: MickeM Mar 28 2008, 01:09 AM

Now I have a problem with my X3 Live. Hope someone could help just so I know if it's a common one or if it's just me.


My Save button. Above it is "home" and below it is "input"

The save button goes about 40 ticks for a full turn. About 10 ticks are dead - the turning goes fine but the pressing sometimes has no respons, like a firmly mounted button, when pushed dow. Then another 10 ticks activated the "home" button and another 10 ticks activates the "input button". For the reminder I can feel the button go down, but there's no save.

I'm guessing there's a rubber pad or similar underneath that's slightly off position. But I can't see how that can be since the POD have just been standing on top of a table, no bumping, carrying or anything. And I have been saving sounds before so it has worked.

Has anyone heard of this problem before? *sigh* I'm probably looking at 2 weeks away for service.

Posted by: muntahunta Mar 28 2008, 12:04 PM

ive never heard of that problem, youre best bet is to contact line6 support by email.
sounds like a hardware problem more than a software problem but i could be wrong...

what you could try is save all your patches on your computer then set the POD back to factory settings then reload all your patches on with line6 monkey.

Posted by: MickeM Mar 28 2008, 01:16 PM

Yes, by the sound of the button it's a hardware problem.
I'm returning it to the shop this weekend.

Great tip on saving the patched. I'll do that.

Posted by: kevin-riff-after-riff Mar 29 2008, 12:11 AM

just recieved my x3 live today now im broke but nevertheless its great, so easy to use and all. but why are there loads of holes on the back of the thing? are they there for any specific use?

Posted by: muntahunta Mar 30 2008, 04:37 PM

my guess is to let air in so the processors dont overheat

Posted by: ztevie Mar 30 2008, 05:00 PM

Hey, muntahunta!

I have a weird problem with my XT.Whenever I plug it in with USB the PC crashes as soon as I close the XT down. I can not find any hardware to close down in hardware manager which is normal with many other USB-connected devices...
Of course I can use it until the point when I want to close it, then a blue screen comes up. Have you heard of this before? Noone have answered me over at the LIne6-forum regarding this.
I have been thinking about X3, but there may be the same problem with this, if the fault lies in the other PC-hardware which conflict with PODdrivers.
What I do now is I use the analog outs to my Audiophile soundcard which works really nice. Also I use Line6Edit via midi to configure patches, works perfect!
BUT, I would like to have the option in Gearbox to record a clean signal and THEN be able to tweak patches while monitoring songs in cubase... This can of course not be done by the analog outs or midi...
Appreciate any help!

Posted by: mattacuk Mar 30 2008, 05:08 PM

Thanks for the info man - much appreciated


Im really excited about buying one of these!! Everytime Ive bought "real" amps ive felt let down, but these modellers really allow the creativty I crave


The Atomic looks GREAT!! What a fantastic idea !!

Posted by: Gus Apr 10 2008, 06:29 PM

Hi.

Windows stopped recognizing my POD X3 live. I already tried to reinstall the driver, but nothing happens.... (by the way I am using USB interface)

Anyone had the problem or know a solution?

Meanwhile I can't record for collabs or virtual band

Posted by: MickeM Apr 10 2008, 07:47 PM

Do you plug into the same USB port as when you installed it? I noticed my comp is particulary picky about that for some perpipherals.

Posted by: muntahunta Apr 11 2008, 12:49 PM

thats usually the main reason some USB peripherals stop working.

Posted by: mattacuk Apr 20 2008, 04:05 PM

Hey pod experts!

The past week my pod has been makeing an awful buzzing sound, like static eletricity kinda sound! It sounds really awful, any ideas whats up?

Posted by: MickeM Apr 20 2008, 04:25 PM

I'm no expert, I'm a fool. But what if you touch the bars on top, does the sound stop? Grounding issue.
Do you run on the latest drivers?
- Does it buzz if you try it with another guitar
- another cord
- if you move away from any flourucent lights

I just got my POD back yesterday from repairs, something with the save-button pot



If it got cat hair inside, DON'T send it to the Zoom repair dude, if they even got on in the UK. He'll spend all day removing the single piece of hair, tell you he will over charge you for breaking warranty and then spit on the interior before he returns it. Zoom deserves mocking.

Posted by: mattacuk Apr 20 2008, 04:31 PM

hey Micke! Ok the Pod has the latest drivers, ive tried another cable but no luck. Now ive just plugged into my Pandora to rule out any issues and the guitar sounds great through the pandora ! So i dont think its the guitar.

What do you mean by the bars?


thanks!!

Posted by: MickeM Apr 20 2008, 04:44 PM

Go to a bar, get a few pints and you'll feel better

no i mean the X3 Live has bars on top of it. But it struck me you might have the table top kind. My mistake.

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Apr 20 2008, 05:00 PM

Hey podders!! I have a question. I have pod X3 live and it sounds awesome to record and to play with headphones but when I conect it to my head amp (Vintage Electric) and Cabinet (Marshall 1960) the amp modelers don't sound good, the distortions sound without bass and mid.. it sound too high and I could say ugly...

Any tips or suggestion about this?

Posted by: Maximus Apr 20 2008, 05:13 PM

Gabe,
The usual problem with these modelers is that when played through an amp, the amp puts its own "flavor" on the sound. So what you get is the POD sound coming through a path that is distorted by the amp. Make sure you have your output set to the type of amp you are using. I believe the default setting is for studio direct/ headphones. You can choose among a few combo amp configurations and stack configs. This will improve the sound if you haven't done that yet. For me , the best solution I have found for my X3 Live is the Atomic Reactor Amp. It is a tube amp made especially for modelers and they do a superb job of letting the POD tone shine through. Check out their site. The owner of the company personally responds to emails and actually answers the phone if you call. His name is Tom and he is great to do business with. I'm interested to hear what happens.

http://atomicamps.com/


Edit: Typo

Posted by: muntahunta Apr 20 2008, 07:00 PM

ok, mattacuk... i have no idea what the problem might be... have you tried alot of different patches?

the only thing i can think of is that theres a badly soldured wire inside the pod
in that case it'll have to go to repairs

@gabriel

alot of people have this problem... if you have an "effects return" then plug the POD into that, it rules out the pre-amp in the amplifier and uses the POD as the pre-amp giving you a flat sound.
the cabinet itself will also colour the sound so youll just have to fiddle with the EQ on the POD to get it sounding sweet.

if you dont have an "effects return" then the best way to do it would be try and figure out what colours the amp adds to your sound and try to make it as flat as possible... theres no tips for this its just trial and error.
also, as maximus said, make sure you have the right output setting.

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Apr 21 2008, 04:46 AM

Thank you guys! It was what I imagined. I don't have fx return in my amp and I set the correct output (stack front). I'll try with different equalizations . The atomic amps sound like a very good choice but I really like my amp distortion too. I would like to add the pod sound to my set to have more variety of sounds when I play live. However I won't use pod's distortions live if they don't sound good with my amp.

Does anyone use this type of combination live? I mean an amp head and POD X3 commuting distortions of both. I hope that this question make sense.. )



gabriel.-

Posted by: Paul Coutts Apr 21 2008, 06:09 AM

How about a quick how-to on getting USB recordings sounding great with the x3? I'm kind of happy with mine, but I've heard soooo much better, and I don't know how to go about getting it.
I'm talking from recording through mixing and stuff.

Posted by: MickeM Apr 21 2008, 09:42 AM

Maybe you'd could try it into the PA instead? I'm not convinced the POD infront of an amp with distortions from both will sound very good. Never tried it but... I'd guess.

Posted by: muntahunta Apr 21 2008, 09:48 AM

gabriel, you could just use the X3 without the amp/cab simulators on, that would bypass almost all of the sound changes the POD makes, then you could just use the effects such as chorus/flanger/etc.

@ paul coutts, i'd love to do that but i am really bad at mixing at the moment , would be very usefull to see on the GMC since there are so many people with the X3.... infact.... i think GMC should be sponsored by line6 for the amount of people who buy the POD series from hearing good things on here

Posted by: Paul Coutts Apr 21 2008, 12:21 PM

hahaha, so true...GMC is probably the reason I bought the x3

Posted by: simusphere Apr 22 2008, 12:27 AM

I just made my wife very mad when I came home with a pod X3 live last week. I already had a cheap Phonic 740 PA system that I normally use for karaoke but this pod sounds great through the PA system. Granted it doesn't sound as good as a real tube amp like my fender twin reverb with some simple effects. But it is so cool to have all those effects and amp models to play with.

My problem is I am not very good at tweaking things on these devices. We need some experts to show us how to tweak these things correctly. There are a lot of settings that when I change them I cannot tell the difference in sound. And I have no idea what I'm doing when tweaking the eq settings. From what I understand, the eq setting are very important on the pods.

Posted by: muntahunta Apr 22 2008, 12:33 PM

once i get some free time (after doing coursework and moving house) i'll try to write something of the sort... although im not too great with them myself i can give some tips )

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Apr 22 2008, 02:27 PM

Thanks! Yes, I'm using the POD like a multiFX and it works great. I won't use it directly by line to PA because it would mean that I wont use my amp distortion in any song. However I'll continue experimenting.

Posted by: OrganisedConfusion Apr 22 2008, 02:30 PM

Please lord tell me you are joking? You own a Fender Twin Reverb I have always wanted one They are absolutely out of this world amps. The clean sound is immense. But they are way too expensive. Is it the '65 one?

Posted by: Zizi Top Apr 22 2008, 02:30 PM

i'm going to have a pod x3 for my anniversary this friday, that's gonna be so coooooollllllll

Posted by: Maximus Apr 22 2008, 04:05 PM

Make sure you download Gearbox from the Line6 site if you havent already done so. They recently updated the software so it is now compatible with the X3. This lets you make adjustments much easier than using the knobs on the POD.

Posted by: simusphere Apr 22 2008, 11:18 PM

No, it is just one of the more prevalent silver face versions that I did the black face mod on. The only trouble is, it has to be cranked up very loud to get the best sound out of it. This is a problem for me since I can't always do this at the house. I havn't even tried to use the X3 through it yet.

I've been so excited about using this peadal board that I just now started to use the gearbox software and learn how to use it. I agree, it is much easier to manipulate and manage patches this way. Creating tone names directly on the X3 is a pain.

Posted by: Neth Apr 23 2008, 07:34 PM

What are the differences between the X3 and the X3 live?

Posted by: Zizi Top Apr 23 2008, 07:48 PM

the X3 live is a pedal, you can use it on stage, while doing a concert, the X3 (bean) is for home using, you can't change your sound from clean to distortion with a button, so it's kinda difficult to use it on stage

Posted by: Neth Apr 23 2008, 08:08 PM

Thanks Zizi. that helped.
So now I have to start selling my body on the street to be able to afford the X3 live.

*puts on fancy cloths*

Posted by: Gus Apr 24 2008, 11:02 PM

Hey, guys. I still have the same trouble (USB interface stopped working and I am losing all collabs, student instructor lessons, virtual band, that is, the most funny time in GMC )
I finally managed to install my POD X3 live in another computer in order to isolate the problem and the conclusion was that actually the problem was with the POD.
I've just figured out that on system page there is usb firmware information.
It is saying
USB FIRMWARE VERSION: 0.00
That says something doesn't it? It is not a surprise it does not work and Windows do not recognize it at all...

Anyone knows how I can install that back?? I only know to install things on POD by USB interface, but well, USB is the problem itself...

Posted by: MickeM Apr 24 2008, 11:14 PM

I may be all wrong here but I think you have to download the monkey (a program) from line6.com and then upload the firmware from there. Problem is that that requires the USB.

Other from that, maybe there's a system reset to the POD you could try. If something was ruined with the USB settings after some time.

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Apr 24 2008, 11:31 PM

Hi! I checked a link that I found in this thread about atomic amps and I think that getting any of these amps sound interesting... Who tried it? What do you think? More samples that the ones that they have in myspace?

Posted by: Gus Apr 24 2008, 11:55 PM

I just received an answer from Line 6 support.

He says that if USB firmwares shows 0.00, it is most likely a hardware issue...

Seems I will have to return it to repair

Posted by: Maximus Apr 25 2008, 01:42 AM

Hey Gabe,

I have tried one and will purchase one soon. It sounds great with the POD X3 Live. Tom offers a money back guarantee. I highly recommend you dropping him a call or an email. I have yet to see an unfavorable review of this amp. I have read that they are working on expanding the line soon. Let us know if you take the plunge.

Posted by: kevin-riff-after-riff Apr 25 2008, 11:07 PM

wait, just found out again, line 6 gearbox is free if you register your product

Posted by: Zizi Top Apr 27 2008, 12:29 PM

I just had a pod X3, that's really cool, and i was wondering what is the S/PDIF out for ? i know that we can record sounds with it, but i mean what's the difference between it and the USB2.0 ?

And by the way, does somebody know how do we create sounds by using our computer, and then put these sounds on the podx3, i installed line 6 Monkey, but don't really know what is it good for except updating our pod ...
otherwise i'm so glad to have one, i can't wait to record something with it

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Apr 27 2008, 12:48 PM

SP/DIF is a stereo digital audio output.

The USB is a 2 way data communication that can be used for recording, but also for setting up patches etc.

To setup patches on your computer you need to use Gearbox - you can use line6 monkey to download it.

Posted by: Zizi Top Apr 27 2008, 12:50 PM

thanks andrew, i m installing gearbox ...

Posted by: Andrew Cockburn Apr 27 2008, 12:51 PM

Its free ..

Posted by: Zizi Top Apr 27 2008, 12:55 PM

yeah thanks man, i'm just installing it

Posted by: Outlaw2112 May 3 2008, 03:03 AM

Hey,

I just got a pod x3 tonight and im completely lost.... any help would be appreciated

I have downloaded the gearbox and monkey...

When you plug it into your amp do you keep distortion on your amp or do you change it to clean channel?

Where are all the tones at on this thing? I cant really mess with it tonight, because i have my son this weekend, but im gonna need you to dummy it down to make things easier for me..

Thanks

Posted by: jammer91 May 7 2008, 02:54 PM

Ive been having the same problem since December. Cant get any of the POD's sound out of my amp, and if i do get some sound, it sounds extremely digital and no effects can be used, only dist can be heard. This is because my amp (VOX AD30VT) has no effects loop. So how do I solve this problem? Will one of those BOSS RC-2 effects loop pedal help or are they used for another purpose. I cant use headphones because the headphone output hole is that big as a guitar instrument cables projection, i cant use standard headphones. Is there any particular setting which i should use on my amp to get the POD's sound.

Posted by: Zizi Top May 7 2008, 04:37 PM

when you plug it to your amp change it to clean channel and put treble bass mids and gain at the middle (5) so like this all the settings will depend on the pod
for tones well just open gearbox and click at any tone you like


as for headphones, you can buy a "cable" that transform the headphone output, it's really cheap

Posted by: Gus May 7 2008, 04:50 PM

Just adding to that, in some amps, the setting 0(bass) , 10 (middle) , 0(treble) gives best results. Try both

Posted by: somecrazyguy09 May 9 2008, 03:22 AM

hey i just got a POD X3 live and i've used line6 monkey to update my drivers and stuff so everything is up to date except for my gearbox software. i'm using an older version that i got with my old toneport gx and everytime i go to line6's website to get the latest version 3.6 i click on download and it takes me to the agreement page like usual, i click on agree and download but nothing happens. does this happen to anyone else or just me? or is it that i have to buy the gearbox plug-in from the website first or else i cant get the updated version?

Posted by: Outlaw2112 May 9 2008, 03:26 AM

Try deleting gearbox from your computer and then downloading it from line 6..

Posted by: somecrazyguy09 May 9 2008, 03:36 AM

yeah i tried that and still the same. it wont let me download any of the older versions of gearbox either.

i think line6 is out to get me....

Posted by: Outlaw2112 May 9 2008, 03:37 AM

Have you registered your pod?

Posted by: somecrazyguy09 May 9 2008, 03:42 AM

yeah i registered my POD and my toneport gx

Posted by: Outlaw2112 May 9 2008, 03:55 AM

what about updating your current gearbox

try restarting your computer and then downloading it again

Posted by: somecrazyguy09 May 9 2008, 04:12 AM

tried it and still nothing

Posted by: Outlaw2112 May 9 2008, 04:19 AM

I dont know, bro.... try typing your problem on this support page

http://line6.com/support/index.jspa

Im new at this pod x3 thing too..

Posted by: somecrazyguy09 May 9 2008, 05:07 AM

alright i posted my problem in the forum so hopefully some one can shed some light on my problem. thanks a lot for your help

Posted by: muntahunta May 12 2008, 02:47 PM

sorry for not being on here as much latly, i've got alot of things going on at the mo so i cant help people with their POD related problems. glad to see others are helping out alot too

hope to be back soon.

Posted by: kevin-riff-after-riff May 14 2008, 10:30 PM

I have now bumped into a problem
When I plug my pod x3 into my computer i cant just play and sound comes out i have to record it first and then i can listen to the play back, this is pretty annoying because it is quite inconvenient, i tried a couple of recording programs and its the same. I am using the USB interface thing because it is supposed to work isnt it?
What im guessing is that the usb is only sending the sound over when the computer tells it I am now recording, can anyone help me out with this?

Thanks
Kevin

Posted by: blindwillie May 15 2008, 09:27 AM

Either plug in headphones into the POD or go into Control Panel\Sound and select your appropriate output device. If it's set to POD all sound will be redirected through the POD and you won't hear anything unless you plug in headphones to the POD.
I don't remember for sure if you have to connect the POD to a Line In on your regular soundcard to get the sound through your computer.

Posted by: Enucleation Jun 26 2008, 05:29 AM

This may be a "dumb question" but I am saving up for a PodXt (either that or birthday present for next month.. yay ) but I'm not sure how it works live.

I want to use it for both recording and plugging into the amp. From what I have gathered, you need a computer nearby to use it live? Am I completely mistaken or am I going to have to carry a laptop around?

Also after I do plug the pod into the amp, will I be able to get the same sound from the pc from the amp. I use a Laney LV100.

Posted by: kyldeee Aug 8 2008, 09:24 PM

Can the POD X3 be plugged straight into studio monitors, while using the USB interface???

Posted by: kahall Aug 18 2008, 04:30 AM

KLYDEE: I just bought the X3 Live today, and yes, you can plug directly into monitors and use the USB interface at the same time. Even though I can't do this yet, I know it works. Read on.

So I get mine home from buying it "brand new" and hooked it up to my monitors and played around with it before actually hooking it up to my PC and it seems fine. Then I hooked it up to my PC. When I went to register it using the serial number provided, I received the message that the device was already registered to another user. So that means it's used. I also can not get Line 6 Monkey to recognize it even after downloading and installing new drivers for the X3. I am wondering if the fact that I can't register it until Line 6 straightens this out is the reason the drivers will not detect the thing. Anyone know if it must be registered to work?

I am thinking of taking it back and exchanging for another one that is not used. Even if Line 6 contacts me in regards to the serial number I don't think I want to keep a used one. It was kind of expensive.

Posted by: blindwillie Aug 18 2008, 07:20 AM

Not 100% sure, but I think if it's already registered you have to unregister it before registering on another computer. So, it has to registered on the computer you connect to.

Posted by: Mac Canic Aug 20 2008, 07:08 PM

It seems to be wrong,
My pod is a Second-hand purchase, and i can't registered it under my name...but it works
And one time, I have changed my computer without unregister, it works....

Posted by: besip Oct 11 2008, 09:46 PM

cool stuff this sharing and nice tones around..actualy any setings can be opened by my windows i'm not sure why ..i'm also plane buy some line 6 stuff but i'm have bad expirience with line 6 toneport ux1..becouse wheni'm download the monkey program to my pc i'm was find out somebody allready did have this item before i'm buy this so i'm wasn't be able to download any updates and other stuff...so i'm was returned the toneport and but Vox valvetronic xl

Question-i'm know there is some chance to download and share setings from other guys..which is cool and the question is it's is possible download and use some setings from somebody who has PodXT and aplly the setings to PodX3??? or contrariwise????

Posted by: Mac Canic Oct 12 2008, 04:06 PM

yes it is possible
you just have to get the ".l6t" file corresponding to the sound you request.
all the settings of a line 6 sound are in this standalone file.

Posted by: besip Oct 12 2008, 09:47 PM

i'm not sure what is the ".l6t" file but if that possible thats great....i'm big fan of nocturnal vision lesson which i'm wana learn on future and similar sound will be great...i'm was thinking before abouth the podXt but looks like X3 has lot of more features...so' i'm not sure what to buy...also hoping thats be work nice over my AMP

Posted by: bamba23 Oct 13 2008, 09:30 AM

kinda stupid question but i kinda newbie in gear lol.
what is a pod?
and the pod x3 and etc.
how much it usualy cost?

Posted by: besip Oct 13 2008, 02:10 PM

hey i'm also don't like when nobody answer easy question ..i'm not the guy who can talk to mutch but the answer is easy...use your computer and for example gogle site a write down there he name of the item

actualy best site for line 6 is line 6 site but now is line6.com and GuitarPort Online are currently undergoing maintenance, check back real soon!

so try this for example-->>>> http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=line6
and you wull find your answer

Posted by: Gus Oct 13 2008, 02:20 PM

I will give a different answer that you may not find in google: POD X3 live is the swiss Army knife of gears. It will serve you in any situation, but if you have the dedicated tools for each task, they will perform better than the swiss-knife.

You can use it as: multi-effect pedal, amplifier replacement (just make sure you hear yourself through monitor or phones), recording device (guitar, bass, voice, acoustic guitar) and so on.
It has a overwhelming number of amplifier and effects models. The accompanying software (gearbox) makes it easy to edit the tones, but it's simply very hard for beginners to achieve the best sounds, but you can download and tweak existing ones (actually I am still on my quest to improve my tones everyday).

If you buy dedicated gear for each of these uses you will probably end up with a better sound, since POD X3 does emulation. Examples: A good tube amplifier will sound more alive than the emulation. Dedicated effects sound better (but you will not be able to program them and change everything with a pedal press). Guitar rig is perhaps a better solution than POD X3 if you want only recording.

All in all, POD X3 is an amazing piece of equipment. For the price you pay and all you get it's almost a bargain. But, just keep in mind that it is not better than having all the "real things", I mean the dedicated tools. It is a swiss-knife.

Posted by: Mac Canic Oct 13 2008, 05:49 PM

good answers guies, good, gooood....

I suppose that now, Bamba23 know the machine and its emulations

Pod is frequently used here by GMC members....

remember that you can get the tones on line6.com. the acces is free, and library is free....
You can ask to any user to share a file....

Bamba23 if you are not on mars or jupiter you will probably see that it is sold anywhere . In europe POD XT costs 274 €, and pod X3 is the same for 400 euros with a bigger bank (it appears not interresting to me).


See you...

Posted by: Gus Oct 22 2008, 12:35 AM

I am thinking of buying a cheap keyboard to use as a MIDI controller (and a keyboard, of course )

The problem is that I only use laptop and the really cheap keyboards I looked into do not have USB interface at all.

So here is the question: Can I plug the MIDI output of keyboard into the MIDI input of POD X3 live and then save the MIDI at the computer using the USB interface of POD?

I want to avoid having to buy an external MIDI interface to my laptop.

Posted by: dantrantheman Oct 30 2008, 05:40 PM

I have a Pod XT Live and Epiphone Les Paul. So far I haven't been able to produce nice clean sounds from patches posted here except for the "clean" patches of course. I wonder if it is due to my playing techniques. I don't think I have to apply "muting" technique with all of the patches except the "clean" ones in order to have nice sounds. Or maybe the pickups on my guitar are not so great they produce a lot of ring noises without muting technique?

Posted by: muntahunta Oct 30 2008, 07:04 PM

the best advice would be to just explore the POD as much as possible, tweak some patches, try download them from the line 6 site, check the line 6 forums etc, there are plenty of great tones out there!

Posted by: Gus Oct 30 2008, 08:35 PM

Each guitar has very unique sound. Most the patches I used with my epi Les Paul are useless with my Ibanez...
So you need at least to tweak the patches you download to see if you can repreoduce the sound you want.

But also try increasing the threshold in the gate. That should solve your problems with noise. But don't overshoot on it or you will lose the dynamics of playing

Posted by: draftzero Feb 22 2009, 08:19 AM

I've been trying to find some good bundles (i've downloaded the one here "standard")... unfortunately i do not have any add ons... as of right now i have other things i wanna buy ....

Is there any good bundles to download that are just for the XTL w/o any addons?

Posted by: edguy Jul 17 2009, 09:58 PM

So i have another problem with my POD x3 or in combination with reaper and the Line6 Plugins.
When i try to use the gearbox Plugin in reaper i can add it as an FX to a track. The problem is nothinh happend with the sound. I can change presets, EQ and everything else, but the sound didn't make anything.

Do you have any ideas why i can't use gearbox plugin??

Posted by: helo92 Dec 30 2009, 06:24 AM

I have a question about the line6 registration
I bought my podxt used and when I want to register it it says I have to enter a date of purchase.
So do I have to enter the date when it was bought in the first place or when i bought it
or can i even download adiitional packs without the registrtion??

Posted by: MickeM Dec 30 2009, 05:51 PM

I don't think the date of purchase is essential. Just type in when you bought it used.
However I'm almost positive the person you bought it from has to unregister _your_ POD from his account before you can download updates etc. Same serial can't exist on two accounts is my guess.

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 31 2009, 02:01 AM

Micke is right. If you can contact the seller who sold you the device, ask him to remove the registration. If he doesn't know how to do that, you can ask for Line 6 support to guide you.

Posted by: Daniel Realpe Mar 8 2010, 05:42 PM

One big thing I have been able to experience with the POD x3 is the ability to set TWO sounds in stereo with one slightly delayed on one side...this creates such a big sound for a live situation....on top of that, you can add the MIC signal from the amp!!

Posted by: Azzaboi Oct 29 2010, 01:02 AM

Pod XT Setup

I thought I'll ask first before blowing something up by experimenting!

I have:
Les Paul Gibson Standard DC '98 - with Seymour Duncan SH-5 Custom in the bridge and an Sh-1 59 in the neck
Laney Hardcore Max - HCM65R AMP
Pod XT

I original just used my Pod XT directly into the input of the AMP:
Guitar > Pod Input
Pod Left Output > AMP Input

This sounds alright, but I feel something's missing or been washed over. I just purchased the model packs for the Pod XT, those make a good difference in a lot of the tones specially the metal ones! However still something missing (maybe my ear's just getting really fussy)...

Second Setup:
Guitar > Pod Input
Pod Left Output > AMP FX Return

Loud! Hardcore sounding, had to turn it down and I play on very low volume to start off with. This was getting to the sound I wanted. So also tried...

Third Setup:
Guitar > AMP Input
AMP FX Send > Pod Input
Pod Left Output > AMP FX Return

This is the smartest way I guess to get the most out of the guitar tone right? Still loud and hardcore.

Fourth Setup:
Guitar > Pod Input
Pod Left Output > AMP Input
Pod Right Output > AMP FX Return

Insane! Double the beef, with the fear of noise control! Is this overkill or would it be safe at very low volumes? I'm also wondering if effects will overlap and become mucky with the duel input?

So now I'm wondering which is the best setup to use? I'm guessing FX loop?
I have the Pod XT for 'What are you connecting to?' on 'Studio Direct' will this be the same or changed?


EDIT:
You can call me dumb, I think I've worked out what was driving me nuts with the tone. Just changing the Pod's from the AMP's input to the FX feedback return make's the biggest difference. My Laney AMP adds a new layer of crunch (sounds cool but reduces the overall effect from the Pod), with the FX return it bypasses that getting the actual tone it should be louder and not washed over.

Posted by: thefireball Apr 25 2011, 01:44 AM

How do I unzip the .RAR files properly? Thanks.

Posted by: Azzaboi Apr 25 2011, 08:17 PM

Hey Brandon, use WinRAR:
http://www.rarlab.com/download.htm