Using the pedal is intuitive once you understand the switching logic of the two, sturdy stomp footswitches and the operation of the easy-to-see LCD display that changes color to identify, by their core effect, the different models in play. When a model is selected, six small knobs comprising the salient parameters for that model control all parameters. This would include a Wet/Dry mix if the model produces a time-based effect such as a reverb, delay or modulation.

There are 19 delay models inspired by the classics such as Electro-Harmonix® Deluxe Memory Man, Maestro® ER-3 Echoplex and the delays from DL4™ Delay Modeler. There are 23 modulation effects and probably represents the unit's strongest feature set. Mod effects include the Opto Trem similar to the tremolo in a blackface Fender® amp and Bias Trem much like a 1960 Vox® AC-15 amp. The Jet Sound model sounds a lot like a Mu-Tron® Bi-Phase or an MXR Phase 90 to me.

Choose any of the 17 distortion models ranging from tubular screamers to fuzzy faces. I thought the 26 filter models very well coded for their very intense sweeps and triggered warbles, talkboxes, and auto-wahs. M5 has 12 reverbs and 12 compressors and EQ models available and, due to their refinement, using them is remarkably like dialing in an outboard rack effect in my studio.

You can see the entire list of models at line6.com/m5/models.html and hear them at line6.com/m5/sounds.html.