Gear question

[AllenSparks]

I bought a GuitarPort bundled with RiffWorks Line6 edition for my son Colton a few months ago. We've been having a great time jammin and have been posting stuff to RiffCaster.

The main problem is, we can't both use it at the same time so, I decided I want my own setup. Before I buy, I'd like to consider alternatives to the GuitarPort interface.

Can anyone recommend alternative gear?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[scott]

Hi, and welcome to the RiffWorks forum.

If you're content to use the GuitarPort and it does everything you need, it's not a bad purchase. However, if you want to give yourself some added flexibility, I would recommend going for a Line6 TonePort UX2 for the following reasons:

1. It's Line 6 so the GearBox software you use on GuitarPort is exactly the same on TonePort. Nothing 'new' to get to grips with.
2. Extra amp models come with TonePort including much better mic settings for vocals and bass.
3. It has 2 XLR inputs (+48V phanotm power) and two instrument inputs. GearBox will allow you to use both input channels at once, or just one at a time.
4. There are 2 footswitch and 2 line outputs as well as 2 analog outs and a digital out.

You can check the TonePort out on the Line 6 site.

Good luck on the new purchase. I guarantee when Colton sees the TonePort, he'll be asking for one too.

[epauley]

Line 6 also is about to release (rumor is September 20) the PODx3 which will allow for vocals, dual amps and two guitar players at once. It will combine POD and TonePort technology and come equipped with the complete guitar, bass, and vocal expansion packs. Of course, it will be cost more – PODx3 = $399 and PODx3 Live = $499.

[AllenSparks]

Scott and Edward,

Thanks much for the info.

[GuitarSlinger]

There's also going to be a free update soon that will give Guitarport users the vocal packs, and probably the 5 bass amps too. I think they are trying to unify the features on some of the different devices, so your main choice should be, what ins and outs do you need?

I don't know if a PodXT or X3 would interest you, but with these devices, no computer is needed.

[epauley]

There's also going to be a free update soon that will give Guitarport users the vocal packs, and probably the 5 bass amps too.

Free vocal packs? I just gave my GP away. Do you think they'll do the same for the PODxt - I already have the Bass expansion pack?

[GuitarSlinger]

Could be, not entirely sure. This is based on a slip from one of the Line 6 moderators. With all the new products coming out soon, there's bound to be some new updates. One of the things I love about Line 6, very generous with their updates. The last one was over the top that added models and stomps and wahs, all free.

[epauley]

Thanks GuitarSlinger! I'll cross my fingers. Unfortunately, the vocal expansion pack has never been available for the GP or the PODxt or I would have puchased it (don't tell Line 6 ).

[GuitarSlinger]

They do give you the vocal pack to use on pc if own a PodXT and buy the VST add on. Complicated eh? Personally I'll probably get the X3, but I just bought a new bass, awaiting delivery, so it'll have to wait a bit. I hope the GP users get it.

[bluesydude]

Here are some X3 pix http://www.petrucciforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49626&page=4

[epauley]

Hmm…I’ve seen the Petrucci referenced a lot lately.

Anyway, a number of online stores had the PODx3’s posted a few weeks ago but now they are all gone except for Japanese and French sites – strange happenings on the old www.

[epauley]

Here's an online store ad for the x3 with specs:

http://www.musiciansbuy.com/Line6-PODX3-Direct-Guitar-Recording-Solution-PODX3.html#tabs