Line 6 is a guitar and audio equipment manufacturer, best known for their pioneering work in digital amplifier modeling. I worked on several products for Line 6 while at RKS including their iOS accessory device Sonic Port as well as their first fully connected smart amps, AMPLIFi.
Line 6’s digital modeling allows users to emulate the tone created through dozens of different amps, cabs and effects pedals. Our initial design exploration focused on a variety of users for whom this all-in-one experience would be appealing – from cash-strapped beginners to lapsed experienced players.
The design exploration focused on several different form factors including a more traditional amp form as well as a premium model intended to better integrate into the home by blending consumer audio cues and guitar gear.
Though the premium version was later abandoned, the more traditional amp form factor was ultimately produced in a variety of form factors. The multifunction control knob (which featured more prominently in the abandoned design) was maintained in a simplified form in the production version.
Prior to AMPLIFi, I worked on Line 6’s iOS device the Sonic Port. Sold in the Apple store after launch, the design exploration focused on cable management for the numerous inputs and outputs that the device enabled. The final design featured a heavy ballast to keep the device in place and isolated the iOS connection to keep the connected device independent and accessible.
Upon launch, AMPLIFi was received with Guitar Center’s largest order ever and (in addition to selling out), recognized by several industry awards including NAMM’s Best in Show as well as design awards including the SPARK Gold and Silver.