The 4 Best Mixers for Bose L1 Model 2 – Reviews 2023

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You’ve probably heard of Bose as a name in home audio equipment, but they also make professional audio systems ideal for amphitheaters and music venues. Their L1 Model 2 system includes the most advanced speakers in their line, including 24 speakers that provide even 180° sound projection for audiences as large as 500 people.

A high-quality mixer is a must to get the most out of an advanced speaker system like the Bose L1 Model 2. Bose sells mixers that are specifically designed to maximize the potential of the L1 system, but these aren’t your only options, and aren’t always the best choice for every user. The best mixer for your system really depends on the space you’re working with and what you’re amplifying. Want to know more? Read the reviews below to find the right mixer for your Bose speaker system.

These are our recommendations for the best mixers for Bose L1 Model systems:

Bose T4S ToneMatch Mixer


The ToneMatch engine is the obvious choice to pair with an L1 speaker system. Firstly because it’s manufactured by Bose, meaning you can count on it to be fully compatible. It has advantages beyond being made by the same brand, though. It offers an array of studio-quality effects and pro-level audio processing tools that bring on the best of the L1 system.

The T4S is an update on the popular T1 ToneMatch mixer that was initially designed to complement the L1 system. It’s similar in many respects. It’s a 4-channel mixer with a simple and intuitive interface. The LED display is ideal for navigating the on-board effects. As far as tactile controls, it has independent EQ for each channel, along with independent level and effects. This gives you a lot of flexibility in live performance situations.

The Bose T4S is more versatile than its predecessor. It has XLR jacks for guitars, vocals, and other inputs, with a switchable phantom power. There are also options of Aux and USB, so you can easily interface with the full array of equipment a modern musician uses. It’s as convenient and portable as the T1, too, with a rugged built that will stand up to road travel. For both sound quality and convenience, the T4S ToneMatch is a definite winner.

Bose T4S ToneMatch Mixer – Unboxing + Setup

Bose T8S ToneMatch Mixer Bundle

If you need more inputs than are offered by the T1, you might want to look at the professional end of the ToneMatch line. The Bose T8S has 8 channels, all of which give you the option of an XLR or stereo aux input. Combined with the presets and effects you get from all Bose ToneMatch mixers, this makes the T8S an incredibly versatile piece of equipment.

You’ll also love the sound you get out of the T8S (see full specs). Every channel includes quality preamps and switchable phantom power, so you can use them for instruments or microphones. Even with these added options, the controls on the T8S are just as intuitive, with an LED display for choosing your pre-sets and effects. While it is on the higher end of the price spectrum, it does at least include a microphone and cables so you can use it straight out of the box. This is, without a doubt, one of the best mixers for Bose L1 Model 2 on the market.

Bose T8S USB B from PC to Aux inputs 9/10

Behringer Xenyx 1202 Premium 12-Input 2-Bus Mixer

The main reason you might want to look outside of Bose’s catalog for a mixer is the price. That’s where Behringer comes into play. These professional-quality mixers are also incredibly affordable. The line offers a range of different input options and controls. The 1202 linked to here is a great choice for a professional venue because it provides 12 inputs with independent 3-band EQs, enough for any band or performance.

The Xenyx 1202 also offers more tactile mixing options than the all-digital Bose models above. There’s a master fader and knobs for controlling the pan, effects, and level. The only downside of this mixer is that it doesn’t offer any on-board effects or pre-sets, though it does work well with a wide array of external effects engines and pedals. Overall, this the best value you’ll find in a mixer for the L1 Model 2.

Behringer Mixer: How to do a setup

Mackie PROFX8V2 8-Channel Compact Mixer

Mackie is another trusted name in recording technology. If you’re looking for an affordable mixer that does give you on-board effects, the PROFX8V2 is definitely worth a look. It has 8 independent channels with 7-band graphic EQs. The ReadyFX engine includes the standard reverb, delay, and chorusing effects, with 16 effects in total.

The Mackie PROFX is designed for live sound, and it’s easy to make on the fly adjustments to the level and effects. The Vita preamps are low-noise and give you an excellent tone quality. The full range of tactile controls can make it a bit more intimidating for a newer user, but it also gives you more options once you know how to use it. Overall, it should belong on any list of the best mixers for Bose L1 Model 2.

My Podcast Setup: Hardware Overview

Finding the Right Mixer for Your Bose L1

The first question you need to answer is how many inputs you need, and how many of those will be for microphones. A microphone channel requires a preamp to equalize it with line-level signals from electronic instruments, like guitars. Remember that you won’t only need microphones for vocalists; you’ll also use them for acoustic instruments and drum kits.

This is really a question of what you’ll be using the speakers for. A public speaker will have very different audio needs than a church choir or a rock band, ones that go beyond the number of inputs the mixer offers. Think about how you’ll be dividing the sound into channels and what kinds of controls you’ll need for each.

This leads to the second big question: whether you want a digital or analog mixer. Having the knobs and faders to control individual frequency ranges and channels makes it easier for you to make live adjustments. On the other hand, the pre-sets on a digital mixer are very convenient, especially if you’ll have people using the mixer who aren’t as familiar with sound technology.

One advantage of working with a sound system like the Bose L1 is that you know the speakers are going to do your sound justice. You don’t need your mixer to make up for weak speakers. It’ll mostly be about maintaining the integrity of the sound from the instruments all the way through to the ears in your audience. Anything that can do can be christened the best mixer for Bose L1 Model 2 period. And it’s just that simple. Good luck!

  • Micah Johnson started playing music in high school, when he taught himself the bass to join his friend’s band. He added guitar and drums during his twenties playing in local clubs, and along the way, he picked up unique, hands-on experience from hand drums to studio mixers. On Song Simian, he aims to share this knowledge from 20+ years playing and recording music. When not in gearhead mode, he enjoys photography and travel.

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