What makes the L1® portable line array so different?
It begins with the shape. Each L1 system contains a column of many closely spaced drivers mounted in a tall, slim enclosure. This unusual design has profound effects on the sound.

Consistent sound levels
Because of its shape, the L1 system projects sound waves that expand out and to the sides, but sends very little up and down. Sound spreads more evenly across the stage and into the audience, and the sound level drops off much more slowly than from a conventional speaker.

For example, imagine a conventional speaker and an L1 system placed side by side, set to produce the same sound level at a distance of one meter. At 10 meters away, the conventional source already has 10 times less sound intensity than the L1 system.

Sound levels stay so consistent throughout the venue, there's no need for separate monitor and PA speaker systems—and the L1 system provides sound for both stage and audience. You have complete control over your sound, and you no longer have to wonder what your audience is hearing.

Smooth, uniform sound coverage
L1 systems spread the sound at nearly 180 degrees, so tone quality stays smooth and even from side to side. The L1 Model II system takes this uniform coverage even further with proprietary Bose® Articulated Array® speaker technology. Individual drivers in the line array are angled slightly to the sides in an alternating pattern to help deliver our smoothest, most uniform coverage. Even people off to the sides can enjoy crisp, detailed sound.

Less reverb
L1 systems also produce much less reverberation than a typical sound system. Conventional speakers direct a lot of sound energy up towards the ceiling, where it gets reflected back down as reverb. Monitor wedges, usually angled towards the back wall, add to the problem. L1 systems confine most of their sound energy in a wide, flat wedge of sound, projecting very little to the upper walls and ceiling. Sound remains clear and detailed, even in the back of the room.

Sound from an L1 system is so consistent throughout the venue, you and your audience can enjoy full, detailed, tonally balanced sound. Whether you're at the front of the stage or the back of the house, in front of the speaker or off to the side.