MIDI
What a controller can actually reach, the three messages that recall a sound, and the trick that lets one preset serve several songs.
On Helix, the CC numbers are fixed
The CCs above are reserved for global functions and cannot be learned as controllers. If you try, the unit puts up a dialogue saying so. When a MIDI controller you have used with another brand does nothing here, this is usually why — its CC numbers collide with the reserved list, or it is sending a number Helix does not listen to.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualCC#32 picks the setlist, a Program Change picks the preset within it, and CC#69 picks the snapshot. The Setlist menu prints the exact three values for whatever is selected, which is the fastest way to find them.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualMoving through presets on the hardware sends a matching Program Change out. If you do not want that, turn MIDI PC Send/Receive off in Global Settings > MIDI/Tempo.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualMIDI over USB carries the same messages in both directions. On Windows you need Line 6's ASIO driver first; macOS, iPad and iPhone need nothing.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualHelix can send MIDI clock to sync other pedals and software to its tap tempo, and receive clock to sync its own delays and modulation to a DAW or drum machine. When it is following incoming clock the TAP LED flashes blue instead of red.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualCommand Center lets a preset fire CC, Bank/Program, MMC and other messages when it loads — so changing a Helix preset can also change your amp's channel or a rack unit's patch.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualWhat a controller can reach
Snapshot select
Values 0–7 pick snapshots 1–8; 8 is next and 9 is previous. The one you want for song sections.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualBank MSB
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualTuner on and off
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualThe MODE switch
Flips footswitch mode remotely — useful when the board is out of reach.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualFootswitches FS1–FS11 and the EXP toe switch
Each switch's current function, whatever mode the unit is in.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualExpression pedals 1, 2 and 3
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualLooper controls
Record/overdub, play/stop, play once, undo, forward/reverse, half speed, and the looper block itself.
Helix 3.80 Owner's Manual · HX Stomp 3.80 Owner's ManualParameter knobs 1–6
Global control of whatever the six knobs currently show.
Helix 3.80 Owner's ManualSend the snapshot straight after the preset
A CC#69 snapshot change sent during a preset load is buffered and applied once the load finishes. That means you can send a Program Change immediately followed by CC#69 and land on a preset with a different snapshot than the one it was saved with. It is the cleanest way to build a setlist where one preset serves several songs.
Helix 3.80 Owner's Manual