Quote:

I've occasionally use the same laptop through a friends Bose L2 system, but the Mackie system really does have a much warmer and prettier sound.



John,

I almost switched thinking about the Bose System as I did get a chance to hear almost exactly your own setup. I haven't yet had any means of listening to the Bose in comparison. However, at this point in my research, I think I'd be satisfied with (leaning toward) the Bose L1 with Bass unit and the T1 unit (the model 2 has both -- one bass unit and the t1 effects unit).

However, I did research your Mackie (the Mackie PROFX8 8-Channel Compact Effects Mixer with USB). It seems your 6-Channel has been discontinued, probably in favor of the 8-Channel with USB (I've seen countless remarks by owners who said that a USB-ready unit would be ideal and low and behold ... it now exists).

So until I see some more comments about this idea of mine (ours), I think we'll be looking at the L1 - Model II, with bass and T1 unit. If in the future we WANT something darker / warmer, I like the idea that we can jack right out (and back) from any mixer or effects processor that we want to try and we can jack into the 'house' system (if they have one), and in turn we can set our own 'stage' mix and the house can maintain their own. Then, we can even add up to two additional bass units off a single power unit if need be (a single L1 Model II). Also, I've seen examples where an entire rock band for example, might have up to four or more of these Bose 'tower' systems (probably running off a mixer).

Now, I have noticed that quite a few people are mentioning that the L1 is maybe too 'bright' and is lacking in the lower end. So far, I'd have to say that Bose has even thought of this (in both model 1 and 2), as they seem to have the 'bass' problem figured out with even another product that adds up to two additional bass units and 250 watts to one 'amp' or speaker 'array' as Bose prefers to call them. The same connector can output to an amp, a sound/mixer board or even a subwoofer. So, lots of options where the 'bass' problem might exist. Since the Bose system is modular, it should be a snap to add onto it to change the sound as needed / as you have the money to do so.

Finally, for those of you who might be following this thread, with regard to the Mackie mixers, first it seems to be a fine company with a very good reputation in the recording industry. I have not noticed one bad comment from the reviewers of this brand. Also, as of this writing, it seems amazon.com is selling the Mackie PROFX8 8-Channel Compact Effects Mixer with USB unit for $50 dollars cheaper than the Mackie ProFX12 Professional Compact Mixer (without USB) which is sold over at musiciansfriend.com. Just a thought ... to USB or not-USB ... THAT is the question I guess!

Again, thanks all for your great information! Please don't stop ... We haven't made our decision yet but I'm sure getting an education from the BiaB'ers!

Last edited by ikeinblackriver; 03/22/10 10:45 PM.
Ike