As if designing robust wireless multichannel audio solutions for operation in the crowded 2.4GHz band was not enough of a challenge, Line 6 was able to design multiple 24-bit solutions for voice transmission as well as instruments - which are much more demanding in terms of signal fidelity and tone when directly replacing guitar cables. Line 6’s range of Relay digital wireless instrument systems don’t compress the signals and have to transmit the full frequency response and wide dynamic range of an electric guitar or bass, going as low as 10Hz. Line 6 also combined its wireless transmission technology – able to reach an impressive 300 feet from the receiver – with Cable Tone, an emulation of the unique character of a standard guitar cable, and handle a wide range of levels from active to passive instruments.
Several years later, Line 6 now introduced at the 2015 NAMM show a new generation of Relay solutions designed for the performing guitarist with several innovative design features and improved characteristics. As the main distinctive feature, the new Relay G70 and G75 systems are now able to deliver next-generation wireless performance and hands-free support for multiple guitars.
Each receiver supports multiple transmitters, and features locking inputs that allow guitarists to plug right in, no special cables required. Preset scenes enable performers to control signal routing, levels and more, with the single press of a footswitch. For example, guitarists can set different levels for instruments with active, passive and acoustic pickups. Singer-songwriters and worship leaders can route an electric guitar to an amp, and an acoustic to the PA system, while giving both access to the built-in tuner. Multi-instrumentalists can set up unique signal chains to optimize the tone of violins, mandolins and more.
In addition to its renowned audio quality and rugged metal construction, Relay G70 and G75 support multiple instruments and are designed to be the control center of musicians’ live performance rigs. “Line 6 digital wireless is used by more guitarists than any other system,” says Marcus Ryle, Chief Strategy Officer, Line 6. “Now Relay G70 and G75 take the Relay legacy even further. In addition to pristine sound quality and road-ready build, Relay G70 and G75 take the hassle out of switching between instruments in the middle of a set – enabling guitarists to focus on giving a great performance.”
Apart from offering industry-leading audio specs for digital wireless solutions, the new Relay G70 and G75 systems also provide a low latency under 1.5ms, which is critical for musical instrument applications. A custom-designed radio with four calibrated internal antennas delivers a lossless 24-bit digital signal and a wide dynamic range of up to 120dB (A-weighted).
Guitarists will also enjoy 8+ hours of battery life, with up to 70 hours of standby time thanks to an intelligent sleep mode. The Relay G70 system features a rugged stompbox form factor designed for pedalboard use, while Relay G75 comes in an amp-top form that supports an optional footswitch, sold separately. The Relay G70 ($699.99 MSRP), Relay G75 ($699.99 MSRP) and Relay G70 Transmitter ($279.99 MSRP) will be available in March 2015.
As Paul Foeckler, current Line 6 president and CEO, highlighted during the company’s press conference at the NAMM Show, the new Relay solutions are already products of collaboration with Yamaha R&D departments, in an integrated effort, which will become increasingly visible in forthcoming months.
http://line6.com/relay-g70-g75/
