"Finally!! Wired Tone & Wireless Freedom!"
by Benjamin Jon -
3/17/2009 6:25:14 PM
| Musical Experience: |
Style of Music: |
Hometown: |
| Professional |
Rock |
Holyoke, MA |
6 people
out of 6
found this review helpful
The Line 6 X2 wireless system is one of the greatest deals currently available, and the recent price drop makes it an absolute steal. The XDS95 sounds amazing, and is the first system I have played that doesn't sacrifice tone for freedom. The system is simple to set up and easy to use. Both the receiver and transmitter employ a two button interface, one to turn the unit on or off and one to select the channel. There is no switches, knobs, or adjustments necessary, just plug and play and the sound is virtually the same as a cabled set up. The battery life is around 5+ hours, and I have not experienced a single dropout, weak signal, noise or any audible defect in my guitar sound.
The components are all plastic and a few key pieces feel cheap. The battery door cover on the XDT1 transmitter is brittle and delicate, and since batteries will be changed quite often, it will prove to be the weak link in the system. The supplied 1/8" locking transmitter cable feels shoddy, but has proven to be reliable. An upgraded cable is available, as well as right angle alternatives. The receiver is sized for pedal board placement but the choice of foam for the bottom surface is questionable. Leaving the bottom flat and plastic would make velcro easier to apply and would result in a more secure pedal board installation. The metal transmitter clip is good enough for keeping the unit is your back pocket, but would not secure the unit to a strap. A Neotech transmitter pouch is recommended. The construction quality is the only downfall of this sonically perfect product, although it is worth noting that the company offers other models that feature metal and rack mount housings.
Considering the sonic quality, the XDS95 it is an amazing achievement, and considering the price point it is a great buy. Build quality aside, I have been waiting for a wireless system that sounds good, doesn't ruin tone and provides a cabled equivalent front end for driving tube amps. The XDS95 does this and more, and the system is highly recommended.
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