Tom...
The L1 Cylindars are built like tanks. Excellent construction and quality. Inside the two connecting cylindars are 25 mini speakers...and no they are not pointed in different directions that I can tell. They all look to be facing directly forward.

Bose doesn't claim to be the initiator of stacked speakers in a column. What IS unique to the system they developed is the power stand (PS1) and how is powers and provides 99 presets to the Cylindrical Radiators (L1s) and the sub woofer B1.

As to how and why the system disperses a relatively even signal within a 180 degree radius.... I dunno. But, I will guarandamntee ya it does. And it has made singing a whole lot easier. Nothing gets buried in mud.

Eddie