Bose L1 - mixer advice

Slowgypsy · #1 10-08-2008, 02:53 PM

One of the bands I play with has finally made the jump from just rehearsing to gigging. Yeah!

Many, if not most of the venues we'll be playing will already have a house PA and soundperson, which we'll more than likely have to use. But for the venues that don't... I'm planning a PA purchase for this band.

For a variety of reasons I've settled on the Bose L1 system, unless someone can convince me the Model II is worth the extra money.

We'll be running at least two instrument inputs (acoustic guitar, banjo) and at least two vocal mics. I'm planning on using my GK amps and not plugging into the PA at this point.

My question: What would be a good brand/model of mixer to go along with this setup? I know next to nothing about mixers so any and all information will be cheerfully and gratefully considered. Things I'm looking for are quality, very easy and intuitive to use, small and lightweight are good things. Thanks...

Hughsie · #2 10-09-2008, 12:45 PM

I do some small-scale gig promotion with a DJ mate of mine, and we use the L1. It's a great wee set up if you're not putting too much through it. At the moment we use a little no-brand 6 channel mixer which does the job. However Bose has a new tailored L1 mixer, the T1 tonematch. Knowing Bose, it'll be all-singing, all-dancing - and expensive. Be warned though, it's only got 4 channels.

VroomVroom · #3 10-09-2008, 12:50 PM

One of the bandleaders I work with uses a Mackie mixer with his Bose rig. I've always been a big fan of Mackie - lots of value for the dollar spent - and I certainly wouldn't hesitate to recommend the brand.

While I'm not a fan of Bose in general, my guess is that you're making an excellent choice. Acoustic guitar through this rig sounds like a million bucks!

Slowgypsy · #4 10-09-2008, 04:19 PM

Thanks for the suggestions so far. I'm familiar with the Bose Tonematch, however I think we're going to need more than 4 inputs as we're already at that. I hear Mackie does make good quality stuff... any specific models?

I'm basically pursuing this whole PA thing for the band 'cause nobody else wants to or probably could. The "old bass player to the rescue" sort of thing. Ask me about bass amps and I'll easily make suggestions. Ask me about PA/mixer/etc stuff and I'm completely out of my element.

So any specific recommendations are very appreciated. Peace...

TimmyP · #5 10-18-2008, 09:06 PM

I recommend that you hire a find a small PA company to take care of you when the venue does not have a PA. Much less work and no cash outlay. Even used, a good PA is a LOT of money.