Bose S1 Pro Plus Review – Superb Wireless Portable PA

The original S1 Pro from Bose was a huge success, not surprising considering the extensive features it offered for portable performances. But the new S1 Pro Plus takes everything great about the original and takes it to a new level. In this review, we check out what this updated model offers.

The Bose S1 Pro+ redefines flexibility with a superb set of inclusions to make it among the very best portable battery-powered PA systems available today.

Features

The Bose S1 Pro Plus combines high-quality sound with features ideally suited for mobile performers who want to ditch the cables and break free from the shackles of requiring a power source.

Sound Quality

When I initially tested the original Bose S1 Pro, it stood out as a remarkably neutral-sounding PA system from a company that generally leans further towards a prosumer sound profile. It was precise, rich, and detailed but was a little lacking in the low end.

Much of that applies to the revamped S1 Pro Plus, but there are some improvements over the original that help bring the Bose S1 Pro+ even closer to the ideal sound profile for performers.

The top end features ample clarity and detail without appearing thin or sharp. The highs are crisp and defined and well-balanced with the rest of the frequency range on offer.

Excellent sound in a portable package.

The mid-range is superb, with excellent tonality that delightfully captures vocal and instrumental elements. Rich and full of character while retaining authenticity to the source material.

The lows have seen the most significant jump in quality. While the original S1 Pro was capable, the updated S1 Pro Plus features a more dynamic and well-rounded low-end that offers a respectable level of punch.

Remember that this portable PA system does feature a 6-inch woofer, so you can’t expect bone-rattling bass. But for smaller gigs, the bass has enough body to deliver a satisfying experience.

Dispersion is also better than the original S1 Pro, with more consistent coverage and fewer weak spots within its range.

In all regards, the S1 Pro+ improves on the original, which I am happy to see, considering many companies make minimal improvements when updating a previously successful product. A mature and engaging sound profile that is also highly flexible, thanks to solid tuning options, but more on that later.

Build Quality

In all my years of testing various products, there has never been a time when a Bose product didn’t meet my expectations. Bose builds high-quality pieces of gear, and that is indeed the case with the Bose S1 Pro Plus.

The tough cabinet is ideal for mobile performers that have to transport their gear regularly. The cabinet is scuff resistant, and the tough grille ensures the internal drivers are nice and safe.

Excellent build quality from a legendary manufacturer.

The high attention to detail extends to the rest of the unit. The integrated OLED screens are bright and clear, and the knobs match the quality of the rest of the unit. As you would expect, the connection points are also fantastic.

It is exceptionally robust for a primarily plastic unit while retaining a low weight rating that makes it ultra-portable. But remember, it is not water resistant, so you’ll need to keep it out of the elements.

Specifications

The Bose S1 Pro+ maintains the same configuration as the original with a 6-inch low-frequency High Excursion woofer and three 2.25-inch high-frequency drivers to handle the mids and highs. It was a great combination originally, so I’m glad it’s still the same here.

Lightweight battery-powered portable PA system.

The power configuration is also unchanged at 150W with a frequency response of 70Hz-16kHz (±3 db). The unit is relatively loud, but you’ll struggle to fill anything beyond a small space with sound. Ideal for a backyard party, busking, or intimate bars. It also handles itself well when approaching its maximum capacity with no distortion or noticeable drop in audio quality.

The Bose S1 Pro also features a built-in battery with up to 11 hours of charge up its sleeve. As always, this will vary based on how loud the unit is running, but you’ll easily get a minimum of 5hrs from the unit. If anything, I feel that this time, Bose has opted to be conservative in its estimates as this unit kept going and going in our testing.

Tuning Options

This is one area where this is a noticeable difference in control compared to the original S1 Pro. The previous unit featured dedicated knobs to control the volume, bass, treble, and reverb.

With the addition of the new OLED screens, Bose has opted to give you access to all these features via a single knob. Press and release the knob to cycle through the various EQ controls. After 10 seconds of inactivity, it will revert to Volume.

It’s functional and easy to use, but some might prefer the classic individual knob control. I’ve seen this one-knob style become increasingly prevalent in various gear. I’ve adapted comfortably, so I don’t consider this a drawback.

The Bose Music app gives you remote access to all the features.

The Bose S1 Pro Plus also features Bose Tonematch technology. This is a preset that is ideal for an instrument and microphone combination. Hassle-free setup for those that despise playing with EQs. You’ll also have access to a Sub EQ setting for easy integration with a subwoofer.

The S1 Pro+ also supports connectivity to the Bose Music app. This gives you complete control of the unit features and allows you to adjust the Tonematch presets and save scenes for later recall.

Unlike many apps that I’ve come across from other manufacturers, the Bose app works flawlessly with an easy-to-understand interface and enough flexibility to adjust the unit to your needs.

Design

The Bose S1 Pro Plus also features an updated look that ditches the angular edges for a more rounded appearance. I quite liked the initial design, but I can certainly understand the need to give the new unit its own identity.

The all-black finish retains the original unit’s professionalism, and the Bose logo is loud and proud in the middle of the front speaker grille. It’s a slick-looking speaker with all the hallmarks of the signature Bose style.

While the unit might look fantastic, it also features a range of other design components that add to an already impressive package.

Easy operation and extensive features.

The integrated carry handle ensures easy transportation, and the unit supports up to four orientations. You can set it vertically on a table, mount it onto a stand, or turn it on its side and angle upward for monitor mode. The unit also offers a tilted back on the floor position, which is excellent for busking. In all positions, the Bose retains a stable and secure footing.

The other notable inclusion is the addition of a Live Stream mode. This adds further flexibility to the unit by passing a dual mono mix of channels 1, 2, and 3 to a connected computer. Excellent for live streaming but equally handy for recording your performance to your computer’s digital audio workstation (DAW).

Last but certainly not least is the ability to go fully wireless with your microphone and instrument with some optional accessories. This is a superb design feature, but I’ll cover it in more detail in its own section later in the review. 

Dimensions

The Bose S1 Pro Plus is nearly identical in size to the original version. It offers a compact profile that is highly ergonomic and easy to transport. The built-in handle is also excellent.

The S1 Pro+ is a highly portable unit.

This battery-powered PA system is also lightweight. I’ve spent years upon years hauling heavy gear around, and even portable options would often be a little cumbersome. But at just 14.4 lbs. (5.53 kg), this is among the most manageable units I’ve ever dealt with and lighter than the original model. 

Connection Options

The Bose S1 Pro features a total of three channels. Channel one and two offer XLR/TRS combo jacks and feature independent EQ controls. Plus, with Tonematch technology baked in, you can rapidly set up a live performance without worrying too much about fiddling with controls.

A broad range of connection options.

The third channel features three options. A 1/4″ TRS (aux) connection, a 1/8″ TRS (aux) choice, and finally, Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with a range of up to 30 ft. (9 m). The Bluetooth connection is reliable and consistent with low latency.

For a solo performer, DJ, or duo, this unit has you well covered, but for a full band, you’ll need to look into alternatives. USB power is also available, but the unit lacks RCA connection points, which might be a dealbreaker for some people.

Value

The Bose S1 Pro Plus is not a cheap unit, and this new model sees a noticeable price jump compared to the original. The Bose name does tend to come with a more premium price tag compared to some competitors, but there is no denying the quality on offer.

This is a robust unit built by a manufacturer with an excellent reputation. When you also consider the extensive set of features available, it is hard to line it up cleanly against other options on the market.

If you are a budget-conscious buyer, there are some other alternatives out there worth your consideration. But if you want excellent sound, flexible features, and attractive styling, the Bose S1 Pro+ is worth the slightly higher cost of entry.

Customer Reviews

Much like the original Bose S1 Pro, this updated unit is already proving to be a popular choice. People highlight the excellent sound quality and the ultra-portable nature of the unit. Plus, the addition of complete wireless control and connectivity has also proven to be a huge hit.

Free Yourself From Cables

One of the defining features of the Bose S1 Pro Plus is the ability to use the unit without any cables. While this requires you to purchase additional accessories, I can’t emphasize enough how useful and liberating this functionality is. The Bose S1 Pro+ also features dedicated slots for you to store these extras.

Bose Wireless Mic/Line Transmitter

The first optional accessory is the Bose Wireless Mix/Line Transmitter. This nifty little plug features an XLR connection point that you can plug into your microphone, mixer, or other source. It features a reliable 2.4GHz wireless signal with up to 4 hours of battery life.

Unshackle yourself from the microphone cable.

Connecting is simple and a breeze thanks to the built-in wireless RF receiver in the Bose S1 Pro+. With this little device, you’ll never have to worry about tripping over your microphone cable again, and it reduces the amount of stuff you need to bring to a gig.

Bose Wireless Instrument Transmitter

The second optional accessory is the Bose Wireless Instrument Transmitter. This device opens up the possibility to go fully wireless with a 1/4-inch TS connector that you can plug into your guitar, keyboard, or any other instrument.

Small and powerful wireless transmitter.

Once again, the connection process is simple and reliable, and it offers a 30 ft. range. When you combine this with the microphone transmitter, you have a fully portable and wireless solution that you can depend on.

Alternatives

There is little on the market that directly compares to the Bose S1 Pro+. However, other battery-powered options are still worth considering. Below we take a quick look at a couple of other battery-powered choices, along with a column-array system for those that want more output power for larger gigs.

Mackie FreePlay LIVE Review

If the higher price point of the Bose S1 Pro+ is a dealbreaker, the FreePlay LIVE from Mackie is a valid alternative. Great sound and versatility without a hefty price tag.

• Dynamic sound profile that offers excellent clarity and punch.
• Long battery life, flexible app, and low price.
• Doesn’t feature full wireless capability like the S1 Pro+.

Roland BA 330 Review

The Roland BA-330 is another battery-powered PA system worth considering depending on your needs. This flexible PA unit is ultra-tough and also louder than the S1 Pro+.

• A loud and powerful output that can handle slightly bigger gigs.
• Option to use AA batteries, and it features four mixer channels.
• Substantially heavier than the Bose S1 Pro+.

EV Evolve 50 Review

While the Bose S1 Pro+ is an ultra-portable solution, it does lack the power you need to handle bigger gigs. The EV Evolve 50 is ideal for people who want ultimate power and headroom.

• Powerful bass and supreme clarity to handle larger gigs.
• Professional styling and easy setup.
• Not portable and far more expensive than the S1 Pro+.

Should You Buy?

Everything about the new Bose S1 Pro+ is an improvement over the previous edition. The sound quality is more refined and features better bass output. The build quality is still ultra-rugged, and the feature set is superb especially the full wireless capability.

If you want to buy a portable battery-powered PA system, the Bose S1 Pro+ is one of the leading options. Despite its relatively high price, it’s a worthwhile investment.