I use an original L1 with a single bass module. I got a DXR10 for some fast-setup stages, but have been using if for every gig, because it surprised me with how versatile it is.
The Bose sounds like a six foot tall studio monitor. No issues with tweaking for it. My gain sounds range from JCM800 to Silver Jubilee to Recto to JSX. The Bose does not add harshness, and can be loud enough to wound small animals.
BUT - We don't backline our amps - they are always sidewashed. The Bose has a very wide dispersion, and long throw. That is great for sidewash. With the speaker at ear level and the sub on the floor, you can hear it and feel it, and so can the other side of the stage. It seems as loud from 30 feet away as it is from five feet away. It can easily be heard over a drummer - it is freaking loud
I think one sub is needed for the right kind of thump.
The Model 2 is a redesign, for easier set up. A sub with it would also be a good idea. The Compact has less power, and a built in sub. I've not played through one - it may be more than enough.
Used as backline, you might have the risk of your stage volume being too loud for the room. If your guitar should primarily be heard through the house PA, the Bose would likely be competing with it.
The DXR, when used "standing up", has the same kind of low end as a guitar cabinet. When I use it that way, I often use the 100hz HPF on the back panel to make it sound a little more linear. Used as a wedge, it is more directional, and has more than enough clean accurate power and sound to damage your hearing with one of these.
Thanks for the response, that's very informative. I really like the description of it being a 6-foot monitor, really appeals to me.
Divided on whether to opt for two or one, as well, I would like a stereo setting.
The Bose L1 is an expensive option for backline use. Many users here have used a Fender Mustang III for that purpose, which is far less expensive, and much easier to tote than the L1.
That makes sense, it's even more expensive than a CLR. Why I was considering one, however, was because paults' uses one and it seemed like an elegant solution. Can be locally sourced too, which makes a hell of a difference if you think about what the shipping and customs for a CLR would be like.
