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Average Price: $335

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Description

Discover unprecedented versatility with the Line 6 Variax 500, a digital modeling guitar that redefines what's possible in electric guitar performance and sound. Designed for musicians who crave variety without switching instruments, the Variax 500 features Line 6's proprietary modeling technology, offering a stunning array of tones that replicate some of the most iconic guitars ever made. This innovative instrument allows you to seamlessly switch between 28 different guitar models, including classic acoustics, electrics, and even unique custom creations, all at the turn of a dial.

The Variax 500 is equipped with a rosewood fingerboard and a comfortable maple neck, providing excellent playability and response for musicians of all skill levels. The design facilitates smooth transitions and effortless playing, making it a reliable choice for both live performances and studio sessions. Whether you're aiming for the sharp twang of a vintage Telecaster or the rich resonance of a jumbo acoustic, this guitar has you covered, all while maintaining accurate tuning and intonation.

With the Variax 500, you can explore a world of soundscapes without the hassle of carrying multiple guitars. The seamless integration with Line 6's POD and other effects units further enhances its capability, allowing you to customize your sound with ease. This guitar is not just an instrument; it’s a gateway to a new realm of musical expression.

Key Features:

  • Line 6's proprietary modeling technology with 28 guitar models
  • Includes vintage and modern electric guitar tones, acoustic models, and custom sounds
  • Rosewood fingerboard and maple neck for superior playability
  • Easy integration with Line 6 POD and other effects units
  • Versatile tone control with a simple dial interface for model switching

Product specs

Brand Line 6
Model Variax 500
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Made In Korea, Republic of
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Black
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the primary benefit of the Line 6 Variax 500's digital modeling technology?

The Line 6 Variax 500's digital modeling technology allows it to emulate the tones of various classic guitar models, providing versatility for both live performances and studio recording without needing multiple guitars.

How does the Line 6 Variax 500 connect to an amplifier or audio interface?

The Line 6 Variax 500 connects via a standard 1/4" output jack, making it compatible with most amplifiers and audio interfaces used by guitarists.

Is the Line 6 Variax 500 suitable for beginners?

While the Line 6 Variax 500 offers advanced features that may appeal to experienced players, its straightforward design and versatility can also be advantageous for beginners aiming to explore a wide range of sounds.

Does the Line 6 Variax 500 require batteries or external power to operate?

Yes, the Line 6 Variax 500 requires a power source, either through a direct power supply or by using batteries, to enable its digital modeling capabilities.

What type of neck profile does the Line 6 Variax 500 have?

The Line 6 Variax 500 features a comfortable bolt-on neck with a rosewood fretboard, designed to provide a smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

Nail Guitar Skills

Nail Guitar Skills

Line 6 Variax 500 Electric Sound Modelling & Digital De Tuning Guitar Overview with POD XT Live

Video thumbnail for Line 6 Variax 500 Electric Sound Modelling & Digital De Tuning Guitar Overview with POD XT Live by Nail Guitar Skills

Line 6 Variax 500 Electric Sound Modelling & Digital De Tuning Guitar Overview with POD XT Live

Nail Guitar Skills

Nail Guitar Skills

Video thumbnail for Line 6 Variax 500 Guitar Demo by Galaxy Guitars

Line 6 Variax 500 Guitar Demo

Galaxy Guitars

Galaxy Guitars

Video thumbnail for line 6 variax 500 demo review by MADMALKO

line 6 variax 500 demo review

MADMALKO

MADMALKO

Video thumbnail for Variax 500 by David Winter

Variax 500

David Winter

David Winter

Video thumbnail for Line6 variax 500 guitar by Dr. G

Line6 variax 500 guitar

Dr. G

Dr. G

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional electronic features provide diverse and engaging sound possibilities

  • Offers killer Lester sounds, enhancing versatility

  • Simulates 12-strings, banjo, acoustics, and sitar guitar effectively

  • Ability to store various tunings with computer app integration

  • Great studio tool due to wide range of simulations

CONS

  • Neck issues, prone to warping and twisting

  • Intonation difficult to set accurately

  • Challenging setup process, especially for workbench integration

  • Some classic solid-body simulations lack distinctive sound

  • Requires software updates for optimal performance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Line 6 Variax 500.

Features and functionality

  • The Variax 500 requires a 9v power source, either through 6 AA batteries or a PP3 battery, to operate its onboard electronics.

    Source
  • A stereo cable is essential for using the stompbox as a power supply, with one channel carrying 9v to the guitar.

    Source
  • The Variax 500 can store settings in compatible Line 6 gear, allowing seamless switching between guitar models and effects with a single tap.

    Source
  • The Variax 500 can experience increased latency with significant detuning, impacting playability.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The guitar can connect to compatible Line 6 amps or pedals using an RJ-45 network cable, integrating it with other Line 6 products.

    Source
  • A regular Cat5 network cable can substitute for the proprietary Line 6 cable for connecting the Variax 500 to other Line 6 devices.

    Source

User experience

  • It's noted that the solid body models provide a satisfactory sound, while the acoustic models are less convincing in tone quality.

    Source
  • Some users find the 12-string model to be overly bright, while others enjoy the lap steel and banjo models for their unique character.

    Source
  • Users report that the Variax 500 is less effective for alt tunings compared to using a GK setup, which tracks more accurately and cleanly.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Variax 500 excels in providing diverse sound options for recording, with owners noting the fun and versatility of the sitar and banjo models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Variax 500 struggles with latency and warbling when downtuning more than a fourth compared to the GP-10, which offers more accurate alt-tuning capabilities.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being cheaper used, the Variax 500 is less favored for alternate tuning than the higher-priced GP-10.

    Source

3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
beeflin

A decent guitar with lots of uses

The Variax's simulations of 12-strings, banjo, acoustics and especially Danelectro sitar guitar, and its ability to store many different tunings with the help of a computer app, make it a great studio tool. It can also imitate many classic solid-body guitars, but I find that side of it a bit geeky. Some of them do stand out, but many solid-bodies don't really sound as distinctive as their historical aura would suggest. The neck is rounded and of medium fatness, a good compromise since it has to serve for so many different guitars. The neck can be replaced by one made by Warmoth if it dies.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Ulhoa uses Line 6 Variax 500

John Ulhoa

Guitarist

Pato Fu

...
Verified via YouTube
See how Egil Hegerberg uses Line 6 Variax 500

Egil Hegerberg

Singer, Guitarist

Bare Egil Band

...
Verified via YouTube

Used in this video. Been using it a lot lately.

Album Usage

The Line 6 Variax 500 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Line 6 Variax 500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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beeflin

beeflin

Gear IQ 351

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