Mikey, I've had my L1 Compact for about 18 months and still love it. The base unit looks brand new and the two column extensions still have very secure connections. I have yet to have to turn my unit above 11 o'clock - I'll take that back; I used it outside for a church service in the park. I think I went up to 1 or 2 o'clock for my guitarist. He had no problem being heard in a large outdoor venue.