Here's what Bose says to describe the DSP:
"Smart, Internal Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engine"
"DSP engine drives intelligent, active equalization and smart sensing of connected components. 100 preset capability for the primary channels."
"With DSP, the system automatically adjusts the sensitivity and output frequency response for whatever the user connects to the PS1."
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Tonight I did a large party in a room separated by a sliding wall. The DJ in the next room was on one side of this "fake" wall and I was on the other, so the sound was very present on both sides at the same time. Not the best situation, but we got through it OK. Our backs were to each other.
The overall volume was fine. There is plenty of power in the mid and high range, but (as suspected) when I fired up the modern dance tunes in MP3 format .... I wanted a bit more bass coverage. Don't get me wrong - it was MORE than OK, but I just felt the need to have a little MORE air moving on the dance floor.
The floor was packed all night, but this was a mixed age group. If there were more 20-30 yr. olds there, I would be doing more modern stuff and the bass would be lacking. I'm pretty confident that adding one more sub is all I'd need for any thing I'd be asked to do. The BEST thing about this setup is the coverage. The volume in the farthest corners of the room is almost the same as on the dance floor. The clarity and crispness is still there too. Everyone was commenting on it. The table closest to me did not complain about the volume level, and the table in the back said there were times that they had to shout at each other. (this was the older folks' table).
This was a successful outing for both performer and gear. I got an extra hundred bucks for playing another 1/2 hour .... gave out a few CDs (as calling cards) and even was asked to autograph them! What a hoot - it's not even original material!
The only thing left to try is a true stereo setup, but I doubt that it could add anything to this already impressive mix. I really think that another tower array would introduce more trouble than benefit. The extra woofer is a must for larger dance parties though, so the actual street cost of the unit will be $2299US.
Forget about discounts from GC. Bose is very strict about pricing and you can't get a cent off ......... but my sales guy threw in a few extras to sweeten my deal. I needed new footpedals, so I got 3 Boss FS5U included at no charge.
My guy is a mench.(sp?)
I strongly advise you all to at least try this thing out. It takes an open mind to appreciate the concept. Some will listen with their "eyes" and want to see an extra column or larger boxes, but if you're honest about tone and not into excessive, overbearing volume with large peaks in one area and lower performance in other areas ....... this just may be the system for you.
Given the three very different venues I played this weekend - the 2 smaller ones were fantastic. The larger one was above average, but not as strong as I would like in the future. This can be corrected with a second sub. Monday morning ....... back to GC.
This system is a keeper, and my new visual trademark. No one else in this area has even SEEN one. It's way cool.
Imagine that ...... I'm actually happy with my gear at the moment!
Woah baby.
Oh yeah - one more thing about placement. Of the three nights in use - I had the column about 3-5 feet behind me and about 3 feet to my side. (I prefer left, but Thursday night, it's off to the right) It seems to work best a little farther away from you. The bass response spreads as it leaves the unit, so the closer you are to it.... the less bass you feel - even though the result on the dance floor is better.
My ideal placement is about 3-4 feet back and about2 feet off to my left. It almost looks like a center unit that way.
I like it. I really like it.