L1® System FAQ: Difference between revisions

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This is the latest version of the L1® FAQs originally published in February 2008 on the [http://www.bose.com/controller?event=VIEW_STATIC_PAGE_EVENT&url=/musicians/faqs.jsp Main Bose Site].
<!-- An unofficial version is in the works that will be a superset of what is here, providing links to detailed information from users' experiences. --> 
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{{BoseFAQ}}
'''Official Manuals, Guides, FAQs'''
* [[Documentation]]
* [[Videos|Video presentations]]
* [[Interactive Tools|Interactive Tools]] Experience the gear online
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== L1® Systems and the Bose® approach to live sound ==
== L1® Systems and the Bose® approach to live sound ==
=== How does the Bose® approach to live sound work? ===
=== How does the Bose® approach to live sound work? ===
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=== Can I use the system outside? ===
=== Can I use the system outside? ===
<section begin="temperature" />
Yes. The system has been tested to operate in 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) temperatures; it can also be stored in -22°F to 158°F (-30°C to 70°C) temperatures. Take precautions in light rain to cover the back panel of the power stand. Keep water out of the air inlet slits inside the back panel, on the loudspeaker drivers or inside the {{L1}} cavity on the power stand.
Yes. The system has been tested to operate in 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) temperatures; it can also be stored in -22°F to 158°F (-30°C to 70°C) temperatures. Take precautions in light rain to cover the back panel of the power stand. Keep water out of the air inlet slits inside the back panel, on the loudspeaker drivers or inside the {{L1}} cavity on the power stand.
<section end="temperature" />


===  Can DJs benefit from this system? ===
===  Can DJs benefit from this system? ===
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=== Why does the sound coming from an {{L1}} system change when I plug a 1/4" cable into the bass line-out connector? ===
=== Why does the sound coming from an {{L1}} system change when I plug a 1/4" cable into the bass line-out connector? ===
L1 systems produce audio in the range of 110 Hz to 18,000 Hz when the bass line-out jack is not in use. The frequency cutoff point moves from 110 Hz to 180 Hz when you plug a cable into the bass line-out jack, accounting for the tonal change you're hearing.
L1 systems produce audio in the range of 110 Hz to 18,000 Hz when the bass line-out jack is not in use. The frequency cutoff point moves from 110 Hz to 180 Hz when you plug a cable into the bass line-out jack, accounting for the tonal change you're hearing.
See also: [[Bass Line Out / FAQ Extension]]


=== What about using just the lower half of an {{L1}} system's loudspeaker in places where the ceiling isn't tall enough for full assembly? ===
=== What about using just the lower half of an {{L1}} system's loudspeaker in places where the ceiling isn't tall enough for full assembly? ===
You can do it, but using only half of an {{L1}} loudspeaker will significantly impact system performance. The EQ will be incorrect, and sound coverage decreased. Plus, in order to hear yourself properly, it's best to have your ears at the same height as some part of the loudspeaker—which may be difficult unless you're seated.  
You can do it, but using only half of an {{L1}} loudspeaker will significantly impact system performance. The EQ will be incorrect, and sound coverage decreased. Plus, in order to hear yourself properly, it's best to have your ears at the same height as some part of the loudspeaker—which may be difficult unless you're seated.
 
See also: [[Half Stack]]


===  There's a buzz in the system. Any suggestions on how to fix it? ===
===  There's a buzz in the system. Any suggestions on how to fix it? ===
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== {{L1}} Model I Systems ==
== {{L1}} Model I Systems ==
=== What exactly are ToneMatch® presets and what are the benefits of using them? ===
{{:L1® Model I / FAQ}}
Skilled studio engineers listened to the sound of specific instruments and microphones being played through an {{L1}} system, made adjustments to improve the sound quality and then saved those settings as ToneMatch presets. Now the high level of tone customization most musicians experience only in recording studios is instantly available at your live performances. Sound check can be as simple as plugging in your instrument or mic and selecting the appropriate ToneMatch preset.
 
=== What is the proper method for setting gain on an {{L1}} Model I power stand? ===
There are three gain settings for the primary channels (1 and 2) and two gain settings for the secondary channels (3 and 4). To set the gain for the primary channels 1 and 2:
 
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">Adjust the input gain<br>Set the trim for the individual channel at the back panel of the power stand. Supply a maximum source signal and watch the LED. When you start to see it flash red, back off slowly on the trim knob until it flashes green again.
</li>
<br>
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Adjust the channel gain with the R1 remote control<br>
With the master at zero, set the respective channel gain to 6. At this point, the LED on the remote will be at the same intensity as the LED on the back panel of the power stand. This is considered optimum gain. You then can add a bit more channel gain on the remote if it's required.
</li>
<br>
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Set the remote master gain<br>The remote master knob is the last stage of gain. This knob gives you control over all four channels of the power stand.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
 
To set the gain for channels 3 and 4 simply adjust the input gain of the individual channel. These channels don't have indicator LEDs, but are designed for 0 dB line-level signals (e.g., from an effects device, mixer or MP3 player). Use the remote control master knob as the last stage of gain for these channels.
</p>
 
=== What is the recommended way to set the gain for a Model I system when using it with a T1 ToneMatch audio engine? ===
 
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Make sure the power switch on the power stand is in the Off position and the remote control is disconnected<br>
<i>Note: The remote should be disconnected so that the ToneMatch audio engine solely controls the volume of the {{L1}} system.</i>
</li><br>
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Make sure the ToneMatch audio engine power switch is in the Off position and its power supply is connected
</li>
<br>
 
 
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Set the ToneMatch audio engine master volume control to 0
</li>
<br>
 
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Plug one end of a 1/4" phone plug cable (not supplied) into the master output port on the ToneMatch audio engine. Plug the other end of the cable into the line-in jack of channel 3 or 4 on the {{L1}} power stand <br><i>
Note: We recommend only connecting to the line inputs of channels 3 and 4 because channel 1 and 2 mic/line inputs have volume controls, equalization and presets that could affect the ToneMatch audio engine's sound and performance.</i>
</li>
<br>
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Set the line-in level control on the power stand to approximately 2 <br><i>Note: In some circumstances, it may be necessary to slightly adjust the level of this initial setting to attain the desired gain structure.</i>
 
</li>
<br>
 
 
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Turn on the ToneMatch audio engine
</li>
<br>
<li style="list-style-type: decimal;">
Turn on the {{L1}} power stand
</li>
</ul>
 
=== Do the mic inputs have phantom power? ===
Yes. The primary input channels 1 and 2 have a button selector for +24V phantom power for microphones that require it.
 
=== I thought phantom power was 48 volts. Why does the power stand only supply 24 volts? ===
Phantom power is a DC voltage that powers the preamplifier of a condenser microphone. It can be in a range of 11 – 48 volts.
 
=== What input connections will channels 1 and 2 accept? ===
Channels 1 and 2 accept two types of input connections: a balanced XLR (mic) connection and a 1/4" phone connector unbalanced (line) input for instruments
 
=== Why don't channels 3 and 4 have presets, XLR inputs and line outs like channels 1 and 2? ===
The {{L1}} Model I system was designed with the individual musician in mind. Primary inputs 1 and 2 are intended to receive signals from an instrument and a vocal mic. Each musician's instrument and voice can be heard through his or her own {{L1}} system. The remaining channels are suitable for additional direct instruments, mixers and MP3 or CD players.
 
=== What are the critical frequencies (Q-points) of the remote control?  ===
The mid control is centered about 1.2 KHz with a Q of approximately 1. High and low responses are shelving. We don't quote shelving frequencies because there's no clear industry standard definition of a shelf's "cutoff frequency."
 
===  Will an {{L1}} Model I system still work without the remote control? ===
Yes, but it's not recommended. If you turn on the power stand without the remote connected, it will operate as if the remote were connected with all control knobs at the center position. Alternately, if you turn on the power stand with the remote connected and you then disconnect the remote, the power stand will retain the last settings of the remote before you disconnected it.
 
=== Is the remote control cable an off-the-shelf MIDI cable? Are there extensions available? ===
The remote uses a special 7-pin DIN cable commonly referred to as a "7-pin phantom MIDI cable." This cable configuration is sometimes used to connect rack-mount guitar effects to their pedals. A standard 5-pin MIDI won't work. Bose sells a 7-pin DIN (20') replacement cable.
 
=== Does the remote use MIDI-compatible commands? Can I automate remote functions using MIDI communications protocol? Can I customize my settings using the remote port on the power stand? ===
The remote control and associated hardware are proprietary and don't use MIDI communications protocol. The remote control port on the power stand won't function with standard MIDI products.
 
=== Does an {{L1}} Model I system have built-in effects? ===
No. There are connectors, however, for inserting effects units into channels 1 or 2 of the power stand. These connectors require standard insert cables with 1/4" TRS connections on one end and dual male 1/4" TS connectors on the other. You may also purchase a Bose ToneMatch audio engine, which includes a complete suite of studio-class effects and processing.
 
=== Can I use effects equipment with the {{L1}} Model I power stand? ===
Channels 1 and 2 allow for a TRS line input/output connection for external effects units. Inserting the plug halfway connects to "Send;" inserting fully connects to "Return." Some musicians may prefer to keep a "dry" sound intact without the full effects loop; inserting the plug halfway into the connector will maintain the original signal and not route the channel solely through the effects module. You can use either a serial or parallel connection for effects units, as detailed in the owner's guide. In addition, you may also use a Bose T1 ToneMatch audio engine with an {{L1}} system. It features a complete suite of studio-class effects and processing.
 
=== How can I add more inputs to my system? ===
Use our multichannel {{T1}}, specifically designed for {{L1}} systems. It offers three mic/line inputs, two line inputs (L/R), our largest library of ToneMatch presets, proprietary zEQ and a complete suite of studio-class effects and processing. Simply connect the ToneMatch audio engine via an analog 1/4" TS cable from its master output to channel 3 or 4 of the {{L1}} Model I power stand.
 
=== What's the "data out" connector for?  ===
This is a SPDIF connection for digital recording of channels 1 and 2. It runs at a sample rate of 48 kHz. Channels 3 and 4 aren't included in this output.


== {{Model II}} Systems ==
== {{Model II}} Systems ==
===  Why does an {{L1}} Model II power stand contain only a single analog input? ===
{{:L1® Model II / FAQ}}
The {{L1}} Model II system provides a single analog input suitable for many applications and compatible with standard mixers, DJ mixers, laptops and other devices. This enables the layout of the power stand to be less cluttered, with no unnecessary connectors. The end result is a clean, compact and efficient design.<br></p> <p> For musicians who need more inputs, our multichannel T1 ToneMatch® audio engine is designed to work with an {{L1}} Model II system via a simple digital connection. It offers three mic/line inputs, two line inputs (L/R), our largest library of ToneMatch presets, proprietary zEQ and a complete suite of studio-class effects and processing.
 
=== What's the proper method for setting the gain on a Model II power stand when connected to an analog source? ===
While playing your instrument or audio source as loudly as you would in performance, adjust the trim level on the power stand until you see the LED go from yellow to red. Then back the trim level off until the signal LED is predominantly yellow with brief peaks into red.


== {{T1}}  ==
== {{T1}}  ==
=== I already own an {{L1}} Model I (or Model II) system. Can I purchase the T1 ToneMatch audio engine separately and use it with the system? ===
{{:L1® T1 ToneMatch® Audio Engine / FAQ}}
Yes. The ToneMatch audio engine can be purchased separately for use with both {{L1}} Model I and Model II systems. The ToneMatch audio engine connects to Model II systems with a single digital cable via the ToneMatch ports. <br><br> When connected to a Model I system, the ToneMatch audio engine requires a separate power supply?available through Bose or authorized dealers of the {{L1}} family of products. Use an analog 1/4" TS cable to connect the ToneMatch audio engine's master output jack to the input of channel 3 or 4 on the Model I power stand.
 
=== What are the benefits of the ToneMatch port?  ===
It provides for a single digital connection from the T1 ToneMatch audio engine to an {{L1}} Model II power stand. It also delivers power from a Model II power stand to the audio engine. You enjoy digital quality audio?with no need for an additional power supply and excessive wiring.
 
=== How can I verify the version of ToneMatch presets I have? ===
Access the global preferences menu to confirm which interchangeable ToneMatch preset banks are loaded in your T1 ToneMatch audio engine. Use the rotary encoder to select the global preferences mode. Press the Menu button to select the menu list. Then rotate the Select button to scroll through the list and highlight the ToneMatch presets description.
 
=== What is the concept behind zEQ, and what are the benefits? ===
Ordinary tone controls are generic by design: High, Mid and Low controls are spread out across the entire musical spectrum. Proprietary zEQ automatically shifts the range of these controls so they correspond directly to the range of your voice or instrument. In brief, zEQ allows more precise control over your tone, making it easier to fine-tune your sound.
 
=== Do the mic inputs of the ToneMatch audio engine have phantom power? ===
Yes. +48V phantom power can be applied to channels 1 – 3.
 
=== Can I assign multiple effects to any or all channels? ===
Yes. You can run multiple effects on one channel while simultaneously applying different effects to each of the other channels. Each effect type has designated user-adjustable parameters; these individual parameters may also differ from channel to channel.
 
=== Can I create a submix to send to a house PA system or recording device? ===
Yes. Use Aux mode on the T1 ToneMatch audio engine to send selected input channels to the Aux output. You can also choose the type of submix signal you want to send: Dry (after preamp), Pre (includes equalization and effects) or Post (after fader).
 
=== What is a Bose scene? ===
It's a specific T1 ToneMatch audio engine processing setup that's a default starting point for achieving great sound quickly in a variety of applications. Five Bose scenes are built into the ToneMatch audio engine: Factory settings, Singer/songwriter, DJ/playback, Drums and bass, and Electric works.
 
=== What is a user-defined scene? ===
A user-defined scene is a "snapshot" of the complete state of the T1 ToneMatch audio engine settings at any given moment. You can store, recall and edit up to five different user-defined scenes. After editing a Bose scene to your preference, simply save it as a user-defined scene for quick recall at a later time. These customized scenes will help you achieve consistent sound with minimal configuration time.
 
=== What is a shared scene?  ===
A shared scene is a user-defined scene you can send out of the T1 ToneMatch audio engine to a PC running {{L1}} updater software. Once you've transferred a copy of the scene file to a PC, you can easily share it with other ToneMatch audio engine owners.
 
=== Can a T1 ToneMatch audio engine be used as a stand-alone mixer? ===
Yes, but many key advantages of an {{L1}} system?like even sound coverage, consistent tone, and portability?aren't realized when a ToneMatch audio engine is used with conventional speaker systems.
 
 
 
 
 
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[[Category:FAQ]]
[[Category:FAQ]]