As Don and others have said, it's great to have options.

Today I spent about two hours on my phone visiting with both Bose folks and some of the folks at Sweetwater.

First of all, the F1 Model 812 is set up somewhat like the Compact in that the left channel has a mic preamp very similar to my Compacts. The left channel will also work as a line input so that a left/right channel can be accomplished.

Everyone I talked to cautioned that the F1 812 has the potential for a lot more horsepower than the L1 series. But I was also told by about everyone that they also work very well at lower volumes.

Also I was informed that the F1 Model 12 would work behind us as does the Compacts but to be careful at higher volumes for feedback from 'cheaper' mic's.

So, I ordered one today...got time to try it out and send it back if it doesn't work.

Will keep you posted.