Line 6 POD GO VS HX Stomp (Comparison)
Our pick: The Line 6 HX Stomp
Especially if you're bringing your own MIDI controller to the table, we like the HX Stomp better, despite the increase in price over the POD GO. To be fair, you could make a strong case for either unit.
The HX Stomp and POD Go, both built by Line 6, both have a lot in common. They're two multi-effects processors with a wide range of amp models, digitally modeled onboard effects, and extensive i/o options.
But what exactly are the differences between them?
If you're trying to decide between the two, you have to answer: What are the ideal situations for each pedal and how can you tell which one works better for you?
What we've found is that most of the time it's not simply an issue of which pedal has more effects. It's a matter of what they were designed for and what type of guitar player the creators had in mind. We'd argue that particular guitar player is slightly different between the POD Go and HX Stomp.
Use our comparison tool to look at the Line 6 POD Go VS HX Stomp side by side, then read on for more details about each unit.
Read the full review: Line 6 HX Stomp
Line 6 POD GO VS HX Stomp Comparison Tool
We have the POD GO rated a little higher than the Stomp, primarily because it has more control and is a better value.
Gear | Title | Rated | Browse |
|---|---|---|---|
| HX Stomp | 88.2 | |
 | POD GO | 91.3 |
Both units house roughly 200 effects pulled from Helix and Legacy devices, along with 80 amp and 40 cab models. So the difference you're looking for isn't going to be found in one simply having more sounds or effects options than the other.
They both have a lot, and it's a similar number.
But a deeper dive gives us a more ideal scenario for each unit.
Line 6 HX Stomp
The Line 6 HX Stomp is setup more for external control and integration with other devices.
The Line 6 HX Stomp leaves out the wah/volume style expression pedal that's included on the POD Go, which might be a minor consideration for some that want this functionality.
Though the HX Stomp is built to be a little more friendly to performers, particularly with its two MIDI i/o ports, allowing you to control the unit externally.
It also has a simpler control scheme that we like for playing live. And while it can certainly be useful in the studio, it's the more performance-friendly option of the two devices we're comparing.
If you're brining your own MIDI foot controller and expression pedal to the table, the HX Stomp is likely a better fit.
Line 6 POD Go
The POD Go is more of an all-in-one solution, particularly for those that want something for recording.
The POD Go is built more like a classic multi-effects pedal, with the wah/volume expression control and the eight footswitches for banking and preset selection that seem to negate the presence of a MIDI controller.
Read more: Line 6 POD Go
In our mind, this makes the POD Go more of a studio unit, allowing you to do everything from one box, instead of making the POD Go a part of an existing setup.
It doesn't really need anything, but it also feels a little less professional because you have so many controls on one device. Some guitar players, myself included, like to spread that control around to different units, like a MIDI controller or external expression pedal.
If that's you, the POD Go might not be your best option.
Comparison Summary
If you already have a MIDI controller and expression pedal that you're bringing to the table - and if you want to keep using them - I think the HX Stomp is an easy first choice.
This is also true if you're looking for a live performance companion as well as a studio companion.
If you prefer to have everything in one place and you don't want to use external MIDI control, the POD Go might be a better option for you.
Purely based on my own preference, I'd recommend the HX Stomp.
Related Articles
Written by GC Editorial on Pedals and Comparisons
Written by GC Editorial on Pedals and Comparisons
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.