Line 6 HX Stomp XL Review
Our Verdict and Review Summary
The upgrade from the HX Stomp (which I already really like) to the Stomp XL doesn't cost you much, and gives you additional, programmable switches to work with. I'd argue that's worthwhile, especially if you're not using a MIDI controller.
BEST FOR: Stage, expanded control over the HX Stomp, pedalboard consolidation, setting a lot of presets, ambient effects, distortion, and granular effects tone control.
TONE
90
CONTROL
92
VERSATILITY
94
PRICE/VALUE
88
- Very functional for storing and selecting presets.
- Tons of unique ambient effects combinations.
- Lots of distortion styles to choose from.
- Signal path interface is surprisingly easy to use.
- Not significantly more expensive than the regular HX Stomp.
- No expression pedal (though one could easily be added).
- Way too much variation in volume, between factory presets, especially when compression is added. I often had to turn down gain as well.
At this point I've covered almost all of the Helix series (except for the Helix Floor and Helix LT), so my brain goes into "comparison mode" with something like the Stomp XL, especially to the regular HX Stomp. But I've reviewed both on their own terms, so we'll cover tone quality, features, functionality, and value of the Stomp XL, like we normally do, with a handful of comparison points.
Compare to Other Helix Processors
Pedal | Model | Rate | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line 6 HX Stomp XL | 91.0 | |
 | Line 6 HX Stomp | 88.3 | |
 | Line 6 POD GO | 91.3 | |
 | Line 6 Helix LT | 95.0 |
Here we go, XL.
Effects and Sound Quality
All of the effects come from the Helix library, so if you've used other Helix pedals they'll be pretty familiar sounds. I really liked the ambient effects (delay and reverb primarily) combined with pitch-shifting. There's a lot of emphasis on ethereal sounds, as opposed to classic modulation, though the Stomp XL has plenty of effects from all categories.
There's also a ton of distortion sounds, with presets that combine them with other effects. It comes with 300+ sounds (alongside amp models), most of which are combinations of effects in existing presets.
In empty preset slots, you can create your signal chains to combine effects and create new sounds of your own. You can also edit the existing factory presets.
The only complaint I have here is that a lot of the presets would get very loud, and even caused me to jump a few times. This seemed to be with gain, drive, and compression output.
So I had to make some adjustments here, which wasn't a problem, but there was definitely some crazy variance in output.
A full look at the Line 6 HX Stomp XL.
Control and Functionality of the XL
You almost need a MIDI controller with the regular HX Stomp, but the Stomp XL has enough switches and functionality without really needing expanded control. I'm guessing the absence of an expression pedal helps Line 6 keep the XL on the cheaper side, but you can add one of you want, to via the back panel. The big highlight here is the programmable, touch-sensitive footswitches that significantly expand the control of the unit via multiple assignable functions.
The learning curve with the Stomp XL isn't bad. That top right "View" button and knob will be your primary jumping-off point.
It was really hot in my house that day. Line 6 metal is nice and cool.
Price and Value
The Helix series is certainly not cheap, but they all have the capability of replacing an entire rig, including amps and cabinets. The HX Stomp XL has the full range of amp and cab modelers that we see in most of the other Helix pedals, so if you're looking to consolidate everything, the value is definitely there. This is especially true if you compare it to the regular HX Stomp, which is only $100 cheaper in most markets.
If you're not viewing the XL as a means of reducing the size of your rig and moving away from pedals and physical amps, there's a lot here that you might not use.
Still, the asking price is very reasonable, and I've been saying for a long time that the Stomp pedals are a better value than the full-tilt Helix Floor.
Stomp XL Review Wrap Up
You could almost review the entire Helix series as one pedal, at least in some respects. Because whenever I get these, I never question the quality of the effects and amp models, all of which are digitally modeled. It's an area that Line 6 pioneered and has clearly mastered.
So we're leaning heavily on secondary features and price to find good fits for these pedals and rate them fairly. The Stomp XL performs as expected and is an easy recommendation, provided you want to consolidate your gear.
If you have questions or thoughts about our Line 6 HX Stomp XL review, leave them in the comments section below.
More Line 6 Helix Processor Reviews
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Effects & Reviews
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Effects & Reviews
We link to products on Sweetwater that help support our site and keep the lights on. If you click through our orange buttons, we might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you all for your generous support over the years! ~ Bobby and Danielle
Our disclosure↬
Comment Policy: You're down to leave a comment? That's awesome. Keep in mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. Please avoid any spammy keywords or a domain as your name, otherwise your comment will be deleted. Let's stay on topic, keep questions relevant and have a meaningful conversation. All the best.