Nord User Forum

Hello guys and girls

I´m considering buying a pair of QSC K8 or a Bose L1 model ll, to use with my NS3 (and other keys) and maybe sometimes combined with vocals and aq guitar.
To this point I´ve used a Bose L1 compact, wich I´m pleased with.
When performing in small venues I think my compact is a bit too small and narrow, therefore I´m planning on an upgrade.

I find the Bose system very easy to use and always gets a clean sound, which makes it easy to work with.
I´ve also read very positive experiences with the QSC K8, and that makes me wonder if I should give them a try.

So: Is there anyone who has any experiences with both the systems, and would care to share pros and cons?

Regards Cato

Hi, please refrain from posting multiple times exactly the same topic.
Thank you.

I have owned the Bose L1 Model II, the full range of the legacy K series (K8, K10, K12) as well as a pair of the newer K8.2s which are quite different than the K8s. And a bunch of other amplification stuff.

All I can say is -- different tools for different purposes.

The Bose L1 Model II is amazing at acoustic-level gigs in modest venues and moderate crowd noise. Crystal clear, great dispersion. Cons: mono only (unless you buy two!), a bit more to setup, can't handle electric levels, and -- if you damage the connectors -- you're done for. Also very pricey.

The K8.2s are traditional powered PAs. Small, light and kicking sound. They can easily stand up to electric instruments, work as floor monitors, a pair does real stereo, wide dispersion, can be used as FOH, easy to schlep and damage-proof. Amazingly good sound for the money. Just about everyone who tries them out is sort of amazed at what they can do.

I sold my Bose L1 Model II a while back. I wasn't playing that many acoustic gigs, it was a lot of pieces, I wanted stereo, I was fearful of breaking it, there was this awful night with a low ceiling where it wouldn't fit, etc. I did get a good price, though. For most people and most situations, I would argue a pair of K8.2s on poles is the more flexible and workable approach.

I'd pass on the original K8s, unless you can get an outrageous deal.

Best of luck.

Hi cphollis
Thank you for a great and detailed response.

I should have written K8.2, because they're the ones I have in mind
How about bass, can the QSCs work in the lower end or is it necessary with a SUB as well?

Cato

It all depends on your expectations regarding bass.

The K8.2s have much better smooth bass response than any 8" speaker has a right to deliver. If you check out the frequency response curves, it goes down quite low, something like 50Hz. I often play keys with them -- and use as band FOH -- without a sub, especially in smaller venues. But, then again, we're not a bass-heavy outfit. Sure, the drummer would like to hear more kick, but ... we only bring along a real sub when we're playing outdoors, or similar.

To get quantifiable better bass on the Bose L1 Model II, you'd need at least two of their big subs. More cost, more complexity.

The other intriguing option is a pair of the new RCF EVOX J8s. You get the line array thing on top, and very effective sub on the bottom. I've had mine for a few weeks now, and are really starting to like them as a great alternative to the Bose L1 Model II -- simpler, louder, more cost-effective, etc. And the line array is plenty clear and pristine. Obviously, overkill for playing just keys, and can't be used as a monitor -- strictly FOH.

Too soon to offer an unqualified recommendation, though.

Great feedback - thanks

So...received my K8.2s yesterday, and: WOW!!!!
I think they´re awesome. I really liked my Bose L1 compact, but the difference from the K8.2s are remarkable.
I find them both smooth and punchy at the same time, and and very distinct.

It´s actually a new instrument, and many of the pianos really sounds brilliant with these guys.

They work well alone, but in order to get some of the deep bottom I hooked on an active sub.
I believe the sub is useful when doing gigs in small venues, but the K8.2s are also powerful to work alone (but lack some deep bass).

The next step is to compare them with a bigger Bose-stand: L1 model II.
Will do some testing further on, but right now I´m thrilled with the new speakers.

Cato

Good to hear. I've been suggesting the K8.2s for a while (based on my experience), and most folks come back and say the same as you do -- e.g. "WOW". Good enough for me.

I've got much more expensive stuff in my inventory, but -- bang for buck -- a pretty awesome product for what it does.

although there is a lot of Yorkville Product in Canada, I will try to test the 8.2 just to compare with my Parasource PS-10P....With all the people loving them, I REALLY NEED to test one..,.

Looking over the specs for the PS10P, I'm not sure you're going to hear a huge improvement with the K8.2s. Yorkville makes great speakers, and this one looks thoroughly modern. Looks like I'd be happy playing through these.

The PS-10P should have slightly better bass response. I'm guessing you'll get a bit more clarity and precision from the K8.2s. The K8.2s will also have wider dispersion which helps to more easily create a nice stereo soundstage. Oh, and they're lighter. And, in the US, considerably less expensive ...

If you want a serious step up, the next thing for you my friend are the legendary RCF TT08-a units. Don't forget to bring your checkbook.