Who is using the BOSE system for acoustic gigs?

Taylor007 · #1 06-15-2007, 09:30 AM

I'm keeping all options open, I need a new PA (one voice & one guitar).
I'm looking at carvin, bose, mackie, etc. I'll go back and read old threads on this topic, but wanted to know if anyone is currently using the Bose system "the stick."

Thanks.

lodi_55 · #2 06-15-2007, 10:15 AM

Hi Taylor,

I just bought mine a couple of weeks ago and only have a couple of performances under my belt, but I'd be glad to share my findings.

I was playing my K20-C through a Behringer ACX1000 which worked fine for many venues. I do play at a bar that can get pretty loud and having an amp at floor level was really not the best set-up. When I used the Bose last week at that same bar, three patrons commented on how "good" we sounded and for the first time (I don't use monitors), I could very clearly hear what my partner was playing. Setup/teardown is pretty simple. The quality of sound was what really got me. It might not be for everyone, but I was blown away by just the crispness of each note that I played. BTW, we are an acoustic duo and we'll do some singing (SM57) as well.

I PM'd a couple of other forum regulars who I knew were using the Bose L1 and their recommendations really helped seal the deal for me.

Guyute · #3 06-15-2007, 10:19 AM

See if you can demo one in a live situation. You'll never go back to a traditional PA if you're a solo artist.

It's portable, sounds incredible and while it's pretty expensive, it's the most I've ever spent on one thing without a hint of buyer's remorse.

It does have limitations, but for me, I can't imagine going back to lugging around a traditional PA system again.

If you've got specific questions, feel free to PM me.

Taylor007 · #4 06-15-2007, 10:28 AM

thanks for the info. mike.
Is the lack of effects, (no reverb) an issue?
I don't really use any effects on my voice of guitar through my PA, but always have a little 'verb on.

BTW - I like the photos on your website.

Taylor007 · #5 06-15-2007, 10:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guyute

See if you can demo one in a live situation. You'll never go back to a traditional PA if you're a solo artist.

It's portable, sounds incredible and while it's pretty expensive, it's the most I've ever spent on one thing without a hint of buyer's remorse.

It does have limitations, but for me, I can't imagine going back to lugging around a traditional PA system again.

If you've got specific questions, feel free to PM me.

PM sent

lodi_55 · #6 06-15-2007, 10:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Taylor007

thanks for the info. mike.
Is the lack of effects, (no reverb) an issue?
I don't really use any effects on my voice of guitar through my PA, but always have a little 'verb on.

BTW - I like the photos on your website.

Hi Taylor,

I knew about the effects issue going in. I use no effects on either my steel string or classical guitar, so that was not a biggie for me. I know that 2 mic/line inputs have insert loops for effects. The model 2 may have effects built into the ToneMatch engine.

Thanks for the compliments on the pictures! Much appreciated. Of course, as with all struggling musicians, the site is a work "in progress".

MikeTX · #7 06-15-2007, 01:11 PM

Hi Taylor,

I've used the Bose L1 since they first came out, five years ago maybe?

I will NOT play without it, unless completely unplugged in someone's living room.

We have used them with our acoustic trio in small quiet situations, 4-piece with drums, and 5-piece with percussion, and on big stages lined-out into a bigger house or outdoor system for thousands of people.

I have learned to truly LIKE singing with no reverb, but as someone mentioned, the new Model II has effects. Actually it is the T1 SoundMatch controller and it can be used with either the Classic Model I or the new M-II.

Also as someone else said, if you ever use the system, you won't want to go back to the old equipment.

Best luck, Mike - feel free to PM me as well

also pics and recordings on:

www.RiversWestMusic.com

srmbr · #8 06-15-2007, 02:49 PM

The best thing for a soloist / duet...band ??

There is a new Bose LII that has a T1 Controller.

It has reverb and all the goodies.

I have a LI system, want to LII but can't afford....yet.

Go to the Bose website and read the forums and learn as much as possible,

then go to GC and try one out.

Make sure you do your research because I knew much more about the system

than the GC Sales rep.

You can buy - try - return if not happy.

Good luck.

Steve

Steve Z · #9 06-15-2007, 02:53 PM

I have two of the original Bose systems since they first came out and have no regrets.

Regarding your question on effects, the new Model II with the T1 ToneMatch gives you several effects, EQs, presets and more XLR inputs with a better remote... if I read the website correctly.

http://www.bose.com/controller?event...index.jsp&ck=0

Mattie · #10 06-15-2007, 04:49 PM

Just like most of the folks above, I think the Bose is perfect for a solo/small group. I've used one solo for the last 2 years and I also used it in a trio that I played with for a while. Our bass player also used one of the sticks with two bass modules and it sounded excellent.

The sound is perfect for small places and the setup and tear down are a breeze. Now I'm intrigued by the tone match audio engine...

JohnZ · #11 06-15-2007, 05:16 PM

I've had an L! with two B1's for over 2 years and use it every time I possibly can but still use conventional p.a.'s when they are called for. The Bose sounds better than anything else out there and I especially like it for vocals.....still, sometimes ya just gotta push a lot of air.

I've just gone through their repair department due to a hotel giving me bad power from a generator (blew one of the amps). The whole experience with Bose from their overnight shipping of another box for the powerstand to delivery of the repaired powerstand two weeks ahead of time was beyond anything I've ever experienced. Off warranty repairs are 250 - flat rate, and you pay for shipping to Bose and they pay for the return.

Guyute · #12 06-15-2007, 05:20 PM

Personally, the Tonematch thing would have to be pretty impressive for me to pay what they're asking for it.

My Mackie DFX-12 has EQ, effects and 8 XLR inputs for less than half the price. Sure, the EQ's aren't "presets", but I think it sounds just fine.

For me, the big advantage to the Model II would be that it's more portable and the angle of dispersion is even closer to 180 degrees. Apparently, you can't buy the Model II without the Tonematch unit, though?

JohnZ · #13 06-16-2007, 06:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guyute

Personally, the Tonematch thing would have to be pretty impressive for me to pay what they're asking for it.

My Mackie DFX-12 has EQ, effects and 8 XLR inputs for less than half the price. Sure, the EQ's aren't "presets", but I think it sounds just fine.

For me, the big advantage to the Model II would be that it's more portable and the angle of dispersion is even closer to 180 degrees. Apparently, you can't buy the Model II without the Tonematch unit, though?

That's right, Tonematch is the mixer as the powerstand has only one input. One of the 'problems' with the L1 system is having to bend over to deal with inputs and cableing and the LII eliminates most of that. Tonematch retrofits to the L1 but only with a phone jack connection. I'm very interested in the unit but you're right, the price is high and I'm skeptical of adding more cables to something that is already pretty busy. So much for the advantage in set up time.

jackweasel · #14 06-17-2007, 12:53 PM

Here's another happy Bose L-1 owner. I've had mine for three or four years now and I even use it as another way of monitoring when I mix down my recordings from the Tascam 2488 I use. Here in my little home studio/study, I play recorded music through it via cd player or i-Pod, and use it for my electric and my bass. It's my only "amp."
I know the prices are high, but considering the model II has come out, keep on the lookout for a trade in or buy from someone looking who wants the new model. Make friends with the GC Geeks and let them know what you're looking for.

TJagwar · #15 06-17-2007, 01:17 PM

I used a Bose L1 at a gig last night that was the house system at a restaurant. When I tested it earlier in the day inside the restaurant, I was floored by the sound, and really excited about using it that night. Loads of full, punchy, clear sounds from the guitar, crisp vocals. Not only was I pumped about using it, I started making plans in my head to sell my existing PA.

However, the gig was outside on the patio, and the sound quality seemed less than desirable outdoors. Has anyone used the L1 in outside gigs? Have you noticed that you have to make any adjustments for playing outside?