Bose L1 S1 Manual

The Bose L1 S1 is a compact, portable line array speaker system designed for musicians, presenters, and mobile entertainers. It features an integrated tone match engine, multiple input channels with individual controls, Bluetooth connectivity, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a lightweight, telescoping array design. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, and maintenance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Power On 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting Audio Sources 7. Operating the System 8. Battery and Power Management 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Telescoping Line Array, Base Module with amplifier and controls, Remote Control, Power Cable, and Carry Bag.

FeatureDescription
ToneMatch® EngineAutomatic EQ and processing for connected microphones and instruments
Input ChannelsTwo combo XLR/TRS inputs with gain control and ToneMatch presets
Bluetooth ConnectivityFor wireless audio streaming from smartphones or tablets
Rechargeable BatteryIntegrated lithium-ion battery for cordless operation
Telescoping ArrayAdjustable height for optimal sound dispersion
Master VolumeGlobal volume control for all inputs
Power ButtonTurns system on/off; indicates battery status
AUX Input3.5mm stereo input for additional audio sources
Mix OutputXLR output to send mix to external recorder or PA system
Carry BagIncluded for transport and storage

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack all components and inspect for damage. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

  1. Extend the telescoping array: Gently pull up on the array sections until fully extended and locked.
  2. Place the base module: Ensure it is on a solid, level surface.
  3. Connect power: Use the included AC adapter or rely on the internal battery.
  4. Position the system: For best coverage, position the array vertically with the speakers facing the audience.

WARNING! The array is delicate when extended; handle with care to avoid tipping or damage.

First-Time Power On

Power on the system and configure basic settings.

  1. Charge the battery: Connect the AC adapter and charge fully before first use (LED indicates charging status).
  2. Power on: Press and hold the POWER button until the status LED lights.
  3. Set input levels: Connect a microphone or instrument and adjust the gain knob until the channel LED shows optimal level (green).
  4. Pair Bluetooth: Press the Bluetooth button and select "Bose L1 S1" from your device's Bluetooth menu.
  5. Adjust master volume: Set overall level with the MASTER volume knob.

CAUTION! Avoid extreme temperatures during charging and operation.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

Access all functions via the control panel on the base module. Front Panel: POWER, CHANNEL 1 & 2 GAIN, TONEMATCH SELECT, MASTER VOLUME, BLUETOOTH BUTTON.

Rear Panel: AC INPUT, MIX OUTPUT XLR, AUX INPUT, BATTERY STATUS INDICATOR.

Channel Controls: GAIN knob, TONEMATCH button (cycles presets for vocal, acoustic guitar, etc.), -15dB PAD switch. Master Section: MASTER VOLUME, BLUETOOTH pairing. System: POWER with multi-color LED (shows battery status and power state).

Connecting Audio Sources

Microphones/Instruments: Use XLR or 1/4" cables into CH 1 or CH 2. Bluetooth: For wireless streaming. AUX: For line-level devices like music players.

  1. Turn MASTER volume down before connecting sources.
  2. Connect cable to appropriate input (XLR for mic, TRS for line/instrument).
  3. Select the correct ToneMatch preset for your source (e.g., VOCAL for microphone).
  4. Adjust the channel GAIN until the LED shows solid green (avoid red clipping).
  5. Raise MASTER volume to desired listening level.

Tip: Use the -15dB PAD switch if connecting a line-level device to a mic input.

Operating the System

Supports live sound reinforcement and music playback.

  1. Power on: Press POWER; LED shows battery level (green=good, amber=low, red=critical).
  2. Select input source: Use CHANNEL buttons or Bluetooth.
  3. Adjust tone: Use TONEMATCH to select optimal preset for your source.
  4. Control volume: Use individual channel GAIN and overall MASTER VOLUME.
  5. Bluetooth streaming: Press Bluetooth button, pair device, control volume from source.
  6. Mix output: Use the XLR output to send a balanced mix to a recorder or additional PA.
  7. Power off: Press and hold POWER until LED turns off.

WARNING! Do not expose the system to rain or moisture. Avoid blocking array vents.

Battery and Power Management

Battery Status: LED indicates charge level (Green: >50%, Amber: 10-50%, Red: <10%, Flashing Red: Charge immediately). Charging: Use included AC adapter; full charge takes approximately [e.g., 4 hours]. Runtime: Up to [e.g., 8 hours] at moderate volume. Battery Saver: System auto-powers off after 30 minutes of no input signal (can be disabled in advanced settings).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug AC adapter before cleaning. Wipe exterior with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or cleaners on the array or controls.

CAUTION! Do not attempt to disassemble the unit. The battery is not user-serviceable. Store in a cool, dry place.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to interference in residential installations. ICES-003 (Canada): Class B digital apparatus. Contains lithium-ion battery. Follow local regulations for battery disposal. Copyright © 2023 Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBattery depleted, AC adapter issueConnect AC adapter to charge; ensure outlet is working; check power cable.
No sound from inputGain set too low, mute engaged on sourceIncrease channel GAIN; check source device volume; ensure correct ToneMatch preset.
Bluetooth not connectingOut of range, pairing mode not activeMove device closer; press Bluetooth button to enter pairing mode; delete old pairing on device and retry.
Distorted soundInput overloading (clipping)Reduce channel GAIN; engage -15dB PAD if using a hot line-level signal.
Short battery lifeBattery aging, high volume usageReduce master volume; ensure full charge cycle; battery may need service if significantly degraded.

Reset: To reset all settings to factory defaults, power off, then press and hold TONEMATCH 1 and POWER buttons together for 10 seconds while powering on.

Service: For product service, visit www.bose.com/support or call 1-800-999-2673.

Bose L1 S1 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025