LINE 6 POD GO WIRELESS
A do-it-all floorboard that you can use without a cable
Many of you will be familiar with the POD Go, the Line 6 all-in-one floorboard processor that’s more keenly priced than the more upmarket Helix models. The company has now brought out a Wireless version of it featuring a built-in version of the Relay G10 system, allowing you to go cable-free onstage and off, although you can still plug in to it conventionally if you wish.
One advantage of wireless is that you have no cable to trip over or stand on, and Line 6 have managed to make the POD Go’s built-in wireless receiver similar bulletproof with no fragile antennae sticking up, just a raised area near the toe end of the treadle. The transmitter is likewise compact and sits firmly and neatly against your guitar body when plugged in. You charge the transmitter by plugging it into the floor unit, which also has a rear panel slot for storing it when not in use. It’s good for about seven hours of playing time from a single charge and you are never in doubt about its charged status as there are good visual indications, including a green LED that flashes red if you’ve less than 30 minutes power left. The wireless sound is potent, with no detrimental effect on your tonal content and the receiver will pick up a steady signal from the transmitter at a substantial distance, allowing stress-free movement to a different part of the stage or even a foray into the audience.
Apart from the wireless facility, this POD Go is exactly the same as the original version with USB audio interface capability, looping options and the same collection of classy amp, cab and effects models from the Helix family plus storage for up to 128 IRS. The 256 presets are less flexible in their signal routing possibilities than their Helix counterparts but the serial chain of 10 blocks still offers loads of possibilities whether you are looking to create an overall fully processed sound with amp/cab and effects for recording or going direct into a PA, or build presets with amp and cabinet modelling switched off for use as a pedalboard with instantly switchable effects. There are several practical footswitching options to get the most out of the unit in live use including instant switching between ‘Preset’ and ‘Stomp’ modes, the former using footswitches to call up presets, the latter to access individual effects within a preset.
With the same ease of use and excellent effects in all genres, this is every bit as good as its cable-only sibling, and is worth digging deeper in your pockets for if being decoupled from your pedalboard offers practical advantages for you.
Trevor Curwen
EVERY BIT AS GOOD AS ITS CABLE-ONLY SIBLING