Line 6 X2 XDS-95 question

[stratovani]

I've been scanning the search function, looking for opinions on the Line 6 X2 XDS-95, and from what I've been reading they seem pretty favorable. But I've noticed that most of the opinions I've read were from last summer and earlier. Since I'm in the market for one, I was wondering if those of you who have had this model for a while are still satisfied with it.

http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com...tem?sku=271159

[robwren]

I have an XDS Plus (same thing but with a metal, more sturdy receiver) and it's awesome. I think the reason you probably see less feedback is that Line 6 acquired the XDS products line, sold them "as is" for a while but then (last year I think) came out with the new versions based on the same XDS technology but in different (better?) enclosures, and increased the price.

FWIW, the main con I've seen on the XDS - 95 (and the XDS transmitter in all versions) is the plastic enclosure. I've found this to be not a problem if you use one of the many neoprene sleeves, and you're careful with the battery door when changing the battery. For my money, I'd find a used XDS Plus. They're selling for around $160 - 175, and I think between all of the XDS and the new Line 6 versions, the XDS Plus is pretty much the "sweet spot" in price performance right now. YMMV...

[Ripley]

I have one and it's been great. Except...

There was a production problem with the input cord for the transmitter. Called Line 6, they sent a new one (new manufacturer) at no cost without even blinking.

For small/medium clubs where you won't be running too far from the receiver with a lot of people between you and your rig, it's a great little unit.

[pbass62]

great systems,
I have owned both xds plus just sold ( did not think I would be needing in current playing situation) and xds95. I bought a new xds95 for $110 shipped. The plus gives you battery telimetry on the rcvr, xds 95 doesnt You get increased range with the plus but you use a little more xmttr battery due to + mode of operation and the xmttr operates at 15mw instead of 10 mw for the xds95.

Again this will be my second xds95 system. For the money and sound quality you will not go wrong with either system.

[mbrain]

I've had one of these for a number of years and it works great. If it broke, I'd buy another one in a heartbeat at the current price.

It does have two weaknesses. First, the system to attach it to your strap is lousy. The easy solution is to buy a neotech wireless pouch ($12). Second, the supplied cable is cheap and far too long. There are a number of sources for replacement cables.

While you're shopping, remember to buy a compatible "wall wart" for the receiver--it will pay for itself in batteries in short order.

[MNAirHead]

I've had one for about a year... no complaints from the sound crew

They do chew up batteries.

[MNAirHead]

today is your lucky day

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There are commonly discount coupons for 50+ and 100+

[mbrain]

Battery cost is one consideration. These older models use 9-volt batteries, and unless you decide to fuss with rechargables, you're typically going to pay $2+ per battery (maybe $1.50 if you buy in bulk). The manual suggests that a 9-volt can last up to 12 hours, but I've never come close to that (and don't believe I'm using stale batteries). In practice, a single 9-volt will get me through two four-hour gigs most of the time, but I often end up going with cable the last set of the second gig, rather than risk it when the low battery indicator starts to blink (I can tell you from personal experience that it's embarassing when it dies--the sound just stops).

The newer transmitters run on a pair of AA batteries, which will probably run you 50-60 cents per pair. The manual claims 8 hours of operation per pair (don't know whether this is also optimistic). But I suspect that over the long run, the newer units are cheaper to own from that standpoint.