Bose L1 Pro: Size Matters

Bose L1 Pro: Size Matters

Small Footprint Bose L1 Pro Systems

Big sound for events big or small, without the big transport issues

When it comes to sound systems, bigger isn’t always better, and the Bose L1 Pro series proves this point beautifully.

The compact systems pack a punch, delivering high-quality audio without the bulk of traditional speakers.

Sleek Design Meets Powerful Performance

Gone are the days when you had to choose between aesthetics and sound quality. The L1 Pro systems combine sleek design with impressive audio capabilities. They look good on stage and blend seamlessly into any event setting.

Portability is Everything

One of the standout features of the Bose L1 Pro is its portability. Weighing significantly less than conventional speaker setups, these systems are easily transported. Whether you’re a travelling musician or an event planner, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to set up and break down.

Clear, Warm Sound

Don’t let the size fool you. The L1 Pro systems deliver crystal clear sound that fills the room. With column array drivers, every note reaches your audience with precision, clarity, and a huge 180-degree wide dispersion. This means your music or speech will be heard loud and clear – no matter where people are seated.

Versatility for Any Event

The Bose L1 Pro is versatile enough for any occasion, from weddings to corporate events. Its ability to adapt to different environments makes it a favourite among professionals. You can easily adjust settings to suit various venues, ensuring optimal sound every time.

Easy Setup and Operation

Like it simple, less tech the better?  The Bose L1 Pro systems are designed for user-friendly operation. Most users can get them up and running in minutes without an extensive technical knowledge.

Cost-Effective Solution

Investing in high-quality audio doesn’t have to break the bank. The Bose L1 Pro offers exceptional value for its performance level. You get premium sound without the hefty price tag associated with larger systems.

Size Is Everything

Small doesn’t mean less regarding sound systems like the Bose L1 Pro32, Pro16, or Pro8.  These compact powerhouses provide everything you need for big events without being huge.  They don’t take up all the stage space, they don’t become the focus of photos, heard but barely seen.

Solo musicians, small or full-size bands, churches and houses of worship, schools, sports venues, wedding ceremony hire, DJs and bars, the L1 Pro is certainly something that gets attention in the right way and makes sense.

Portable, lightweight, cost-effective, and amazing sound.

Warning for DJs using Tonematch T4s and T8s

Warning for DJs using Tonematch T4s and T8s

Warning for Djs using Bose ToneMatch T4s or T8s

First, a secondary or external mixer is in most cases highly recommended for DJs using all-in-one DJ mixer/controllers.  An external mixer means you have more headroom, perhaps better microphone preamps than what’s built into your DJ mixer, or more inputs if you only have a 2-channel DJ controller.

Why Bose L1 Pro DJs  Need a ToneMatch

While any external mixer is an advantage, the ToneMatch is a logical addition for DJs using the L1 Pro because of how it “talks” to the portable array system.

The L1 Pro delivers powerful, portable audio with a tiny footprint, but the ToneMatch mixer unlocks its full potential.  While live musicians/bands might find more use for the full suite of features packed into a T4s or T8s, there’s plenty for DJs to love when used properly with a DJ mixer or controller.

Precision-Tailored Audio with ToneMatch Processing:

The L1 Pro boasts impressive sound quality, but ToneMatch takes it a step further. This mixer utilises proprietary Bose digital signal processing (DSP) specifically calibrated for each L1 Pro model. This DSP meticulously fine-tunes the system’s response, ensuring pristine highs, clear mids, and deep, impactful bass.  The ToneMatch detects your system – Pro8, Pro16 or Pro32 and automatically applies the correct DSP settings.  Top 40 and EDM or the classic wedding hits, the ToneMatch guarantees it sounds right.

Streamlined Setup for Optimal Efficiency:

Gone are the days of wrestling with tangled cables.  Depending on your configuration, a ToneMatch T4s or T8s can connect seamlessly to your L1 Pro system with a single cable providing both power and audio. This not only simplifies setup but also saves valuable time before your performance. ToneMatch’s multiple inputs allow for simultaneous connection of your DJ controller, microphone, and even an additional music source, offering ultimate versatility for your setup.

Pro-Grade Sound Control at Your Fingertips:

ToneMatch empowers you with comprehensive sound sculpting capabilities. Built-in, high-quality EQs allow for precise tonal adjustments, enabling you to tailor the sound to your musical style and the venue’s acoustics.  You can even save “scenes” for some of those acoustically challenging venues – next time you’re there, just dial up the saved scene and everything willI be recalled from your last visit.

Best ToneMatch settings for DJs?

Here’s the warning part.  Most advice in online groups is to connect your DJ controller or mixer to the AUX inputs on your ToneMatch.  On the T4s this is channels 5 and 6, on the T8s it’s channels 9 and 10.  While these channels will work and will give you some headroom while allowing for additional input sources (mics, band instruments, etc) on the main channels, the AUX inputs have none of the ToneMatch magic.  No EQ, no high-level/low-level music presets, no “DJ” preset.  The AUX inputs are pass-through connections and bypass almost every ToneMatch setting.

Some even suggest a ToneMatch is a total waste of money for DJs if they’re mostly using channel 5/6 (T4s) or 9/10 (T8s).  You’re getting none of what makes the ToneMatch special!

My advice?  Either use two of the main inputs (ch 1 and 2) or set your DJ controller to mono and run your DJ master out into channel 1 on your ToneMatch.  This still leaves you three spare faders on the T4s, or seven spares on the T8s.

By running your DJ controller into the main ToneMatch inputs, you’re taking full advantage of the ToneMatch EQ and presets including the DJ mode built into the ToneMatch settings.

Set the channel gains and pan if required and then use the master or the DJ controller to adjust your overall volume as and when needed.

Bose L1 Pro16 vs Electro-Voice Evolve 50m

Bose L1 Pro16 vs Electro-Voice Evolve 50m

L1 Pro16 vs Evolve 50m

Bose L1 Pro vs Electro-Voice Evolve

Portable PA systems are a lifesaver for New Zealand musicians and performers on the go. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be tricky. Here’s a quick comparison of two popular contenders: the Bose L1 Pro16 and the Electro-Voice Evolve 50. Let’s see which reigns supreme for clear, powerful sound and effortless performance.

Setting the Stage: Sound Quality

Both systems boast impressive audio, but Bose takes the lead in tonal accuracy and clarity. The L1 Pro16 utilises Bose’s proprietary RaceTrack woofer design, delivering a richer, more natural low-end response than the Evolve 50’s emphasis on deep bass. This translates to a more balanced soundscape, perfect for vocals, acoustic instruments, and even electronic music with a tight low-frequency presence.

Coverage is King

A good PA needs to project sound evenly throughout the venue. Here, the Bose L1 Pro16 shines again. Its unique, vertically arranged speaker array delivers a wide 180-degree horizontal dispersion. This ensures consistent sound across the audience, eliminating dead zones and ensuring everyone enjoys the performance. The Evolve 50 offers a respectable 120-degree coverage, but for larger spaces or wider audience spread, the Bose system takes the crown.

Effortless Setup and Control

Both systems are designed for portability, but Bose streamlines the process further. The L1 Pro16 is incredibly lightweight and assembles in seconds. Its intuitive controls and built-in ToneMatch presets make dialling in the perfect sound a breeze, even for non-technical users.

The Verdict: Crystal Clear Performance Every Time

Choosing between the Bose L1 Pro16 and the EV Evolve 50 comes down to prioritising pristine sound and effortless setup. If you crave a system that delivers rich, accurate, and warm audio with exceptional coverage, then the Bose L1 Pro16 is the clear winner. Its user-friendly design and superior sound quality make it ideal for musicians, DJs, and performers anywhere in New Zealand, ensuring your audience hears every note exactly as intended.

Bose L1 Pro16

WEIGHT 23kg

SPL 118 – 124 dB

COVERAGE 180°

BLUETOOTH Yes

INPUTS 2 x combo XLR- 1/4″ phantom-powered inputs, 1/4″ and 1/8″ (3.5 mm/6.5mm) aux in, + Bluetooth

 

EV Evolve 50m

WEIGHT 23kg

SPL 127 dB

COVERAGE 120°

BLUETOOTH Yes

INPUTS 2x XLR/TRS combo jack, 1x 3.5 mm AUX, 1x Stereo RCA, + Bluetooth