Line 6's latest products are USB boxes that turn your computer into a low-latency amp-modelling system.

Line 6's Toneport UX1 and UX2 are computer recording interfaces aimed at the guitarist or bassist who might also want to record vocals and other instruments. In each case, you get a two-in, two-out USB audio interface with mic, line and instrument inputs and a suite of amp and effect modelling software derived from the Pod XT and Bass Pod XT, plus some newly added vocal preamp models. The modelling effects on offer here are not plug-ins, but operate directly on the input source before the host application. The benefit is that you can hear your effected input signal with no perceptible latency when recording, regardless of how large a buffer size you set in the host application.

Both packages come with exactly the same Gearbox software (as well as a cut-down version of Ableton's Live 4 loop-based sequencer) and offer the same sound quality. What's different is that the UX2 has more connectivity options and features a nice pair of frog-eye meters, as well as phantom powering for capacitor microphones. Both use USB connectivity and draw their power from the USB buss so there's no need for an additional PSU. However, as with all USB interfaces, it's best to connect the interface to a dedicated USB port rather than a hub.