Bose L1 Compact PA System Manual

The Bose L1 Compact is a portable public address system featuring a single-column array speaker with built-in power amplifier, ToneMatch audio engine, microphone/line inputs, and integrated mixer. Designed for musicians, presenters, and mobile entertainers, it provides wide, even coverage with minimal setup. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, connectivity, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. System Components 3. Setup & Assembly 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting Audio Sources 7. Operation & Mixing 8. ToneMatch Audio Engine 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Column array speaker, power base with amplifier and mixer, ToneMatch audio engine, remote control, carrying bags.

Feature	Description
Column Array Speaker	24 small drivers in vertical line array for wide dispersion
Power Base	Integrated amplifier (250W), mixer, and ToneMatch processor
ToneMatch Audio Engine	Preset EQ and processing for microphones and instruments
Input Channels	Two combo XLR/¼" inputs with individual volume, tone controls
Line Output	¼" jack for connecting to external recording or PA systems
Remote Control	Wireless remote for volume, mute, and basic adjustments
Carrying Bags	Included bags for column and base for easy transport
Power	Internal universal power supply (100-240V, 50/60Hz)
Weight	Approximately 30 lbs (13.6 kg) total system weight
Coverage	180-degree horizontal, consistent volume front to back

System Components

Unpack and verify all items are present.

Column Array Speaker: Contains 24 drivers, connects to power base.
Power Base: Houses amplifier, mixer, controls, and power supply.
Remote Control: Wireless infrared remote for basic functions.
Power Cable: Detachable IEC cable for AC power.
Carrying Bags: One for column, one for base.
Quick Start Guide: Basic setup instructions.

WARNING! Column is top-heavy when separated; handle with care during assembly.

Setup & Assembly

Assemble system on stable, level surface.

Place Power Base: Position base where system will be used.
Attach Column: Align column connector with base socket, twist clockwise to lock.
Connect Power: Plug IEC cable into base, then into AC outlet.
Power On: Press power switch on rear of base; indicator lights green.
Connect Sources: Plug microphones or instruments into input channels.
Adjust Volume: Start with channel and master volumes at minimum, then raise gradually.

CAUTION! Ensure column is securely locked to base to prevent tipping.

Specifications

System Type: Portable line array PA system.
Amplifier Power: 250W total (continuous).
Frequency Response: 56Hz – 16kHz (±3dB).
Inputs: 2 combo XLR/¼" (mic/line), accepts balanced/unbalanced.
Output: ¼" line output (balanced).
Processing: ToneMatch presets, 3-band EQ per channel, feedback suppression.
Power Requirements: 100–240V AC, 50/60Hz, auto-switching.
Dimensions (HxWxD): Column: 33" x 4.5" x 4.5" (84cm x 11.4cm x 11.4cm).
Weight: Column: 14 lbs (6.4 kg); Base: 16 lbs (7.3 kg).
Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).

Controls and Connections

Front Panel: Channel volume knobs, 3-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble), master volume. Rear Panel: Power switch, power inlet, line output, remote sensor.

Remote: POWER, MUTE, MASTER VOLUME up/down, CHANNEL SELECT, CHANNEL VOLUME up/down.

Channel Controls: Volume, Bass, Mid, Treble, ToneMatch selector (for presets). Master Controls: Master volume, system mute. Indicators: Power (green), signal present (per channel), clip (red).

Connecting Audio Sources

Use Input 1 and Input 2 on front panel.

Microphones: Connect via XLR cable to combo jack.
Instruments: Use ¼" cable (balanced recommended).
Line-Level Devices: CD players, smartphones via ¼" or adapter.
Line Output: Connect to recorder or additional PA via ¼" cable.

Tip: For best results, use balanced cables for long runs to reduce noise.

Operation & Mixing

Basic mixing with two channels.

Power On: Allow system to initialize (approx. 5 seconds).
Set ToneMatch: Rotate ToneMatch dial to match source (e.g., VOCAL, ACOUSTIC GUITAR).
Adjust Channel Volume: Start low, increase until desired level.
Adjust EQ: Use Bass, Mid, Treble to tailor tone.
Set Master Volume: Control overall system volume.
Mute: Press MUTE on remote or front panel to silence quickly.
Remote Operation: Adjust volume, mute, select channels from up to 30 feet away.

WARNING! Avoid sudden high volume increases to prevent hearing damage and speaker damage.

ToneMatch Audio Engine

ToneMatch presets optimize sound for specific sources.

VOCAL: Enhances clarity, reduces proximity effect.
ACOUSTIC GUITAR: Balances body and string definition.
KEYBOARD: Full-range flat response.
LINE: For line-level devices like music players.
OFF: Bypasses ToneMatch, uses manual EQ only.

Select preset by rotating dial next to each channel's input jack.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug from power before cleaning. Wipe exterior with dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or solvents.

Storage: Use provided bags; store in dry, temperate environment.

CAUTION! Do not expose to rain or moisture; avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with Part 15 rules. CE marked for European safety. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Patents and trademarks owned by Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cable, outlet, switch	Check cable connections; verify outlet works; ensure power switch is on.
No sound from channel	Volume, mute, connections	Check channel volume; ensure not muted; verify cable and source.
Distorted sound	Overload, clipping	Reduce channel or master volume; check input level from source.
Feedback	Microphone placement, EQ	Move mic away from speaker; reduce mid frequencies; use ToneMatch preset.
Remote not working	Batteries, line of sight	Replace batteries; point remote at sensor on base; remove obstacles.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop, cables	Use balanced cables; ensure all devices share same ground; try different outlet.

Reset: Power cycle system by turning off, unplugging for 30 seconds, then restarting.

Service: 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com/support