I have the L1 Model2 with one bass unit.

What is the true effect of adding another bass unit? Will it provide an overall volume lift capability or just a better bass response?

I'm thinking that bass is the area that tends to distort first (speaker distortion), so maybe, adding another bass unit will delay this onset and provide a higher overall volume capability?

Hi SteverUK,

Thank you for joining the Forum.

You've got the idea.

quote:

Originally posted by SteverUK:
What is the true effect of adding another bass unit? Will it provide an overall volume lift capability or just a better bass response?

Typically a single B1 will not distort but when the system reaches the maximum output for a single B1, turning up the volume no longer impacts the volume for the low end. It just stops getting louder.

Adding a second B1 to the Model II provides a higher overall volume capacity.

This is described in detail in this article in the wiki.

"The behavior of the bass line out and B1 Bass Module outputs on the L1® Classic / L1® Model I / L1® Model II are based on the philosophy that adding B1 Bass Modules should give the user more dynamic range (can play louder) but should not alter the tone of the instrument, including tone adjustments made using the R1 Remote, the T1 ToneMatch® Audio Engine or other tone-shaping equipment.

This philosophy is notably different from other manufacturers, who take the approach that it's okay (or desirable) that adding more bass speakers causes the instrument tone to become "bassier". "

More details:
Model II Bass Modules and Bass Line Out

Thanks ST. So presumably, the system has some internal limiting that kicks in at max allowable volume levels, thus avoiding distortion?

So I guess adding another B1 causes the system to raise the limiting point a little to a place where it knows that with two B1s it will not distort??

So what sort of increase dB wise can you get by adding another B1?

Hi SteverUK,

2 B1s give 6 dB more than one.

• You gain 3 dB by simple doubling the electrical power (250 Watt for two, 125 Watt for one).
  
• The other 3 dB are gained by doubling of acoustic volume, cone area and close coupling between the speakers. (the B1s should be stacked or touching side-by-side).
  

For more details please see: Two B1s


and the article I cited above. Here it is again.

Model II Bass Modules and Bass Line Out


I hear a subtle difference with a second B1 at low volume. But where I notice it most is that general sense of having more low end support as I turn up the system.

Does that help?

Thanks ST - you know your stuff! do you work for Bose - what do you do?

Hi SteverUK,

The people who work for Bose have "-at-Bose" in their forum display name.

Examples:
Ken-at-Bose
Craig-at-Bose


My story?


-= click the picture for details=-


What about you?
Please tell us about your music.

Thanks!

So put simply - before I buy another B1! - adding a B1 will enable me to get more volume out of the system as a whole? yes?

Hi SteverUK,

Short answer: Yes

Longer: you get up to 6 dB SPL more in the range below 200 Hz.

The overall perception should be that of more volume.

Put yet another way...

With a single B1, as you turn up the volume you reach a point where the lower frequencies just don't get any louder.

Add another B1 and as you turn up - you can turn up MORE before you reach the point where the lower frequencies stop getting louder.

Now got an extra B1 bass module and I have to say, the difference is very noticeable; more volume all round, just as clear.