Bose 101 Speakers Manual

The Bose 101 Speakers are compact, high-performance bookshelf speakers designed for stereo music and home theater applications. They feature a full-range driver, versatile mounting options, and are magnetically shielded for safe placement near video monitors. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to Audio Systems 7. Placement and Mounting 8. Care & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Compact bookshelf design, Full-range driver, Magnetic shielding, Spring-loaded speaker terminals, Wall-mount keyhole slots.

FeatureDescription
Full-range driverProvides clear, balanced sound across frequencies
Magnetic shieldingPrevents interference with nearby TVs and monitors
Spring-loaded terminalsFor easy connection of speaker wire (up to 16-gauge)
Wall-mount keyhole slotsAllow for secure mounting on walls or shelves
Compact designFits easily on bookshelves, desks, or mounted on walls
High-performanceDesigned for stereo music and home theater use

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate location.

  1. Choose location: Place on stable surface or mount on wall using keyhole slots.
  2. Connect speaker wire: Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire end.
  3. Connect to terminals: Press spring-loaded terminal, insert bare wire, release.
  4. Connect to amplifier: Ensure proper polarity (+ to +, - to -) on both speakers.

WARNING! Ensure amplifier is turned off before connecting speakers. Do not place near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to your audio system and test.

  1. Position speakers: For stereo, place left and right speakers at equal distance from listening position.
  2. Connect to amplifier/receiver: Use speaker wire to connect each speaker to corresponding amplifier channels.
  3. Test sound: Play audio at low volume to ensure both speakers are working correctly.
  4. Adjust placement: Fine-tune speaker position for optimal sound quality.

CAUTION! Do not overpower speakers. Match amplifier power to speaker specifications.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

Speakers have no onboard controls; all control is through connected amplifier/receiver.

Connections: Spring-loaded terminals for speaker wire connection. Ensure proper polarity when connecting.

Amplifier Settings: Use amplifier/receiver controls for volume, balance, tone adjustments.

Placement: Adjust speaker position for optimal soundstage and imaging.

Connecting to Audio Systems

Compatible with stereo amplifiers, AV receivers, and home theater systems.

  1. Turn off all equipment before making connections.
  2. Connect left speaker to amplifier's left channel (usually white terminals).
  3. Connect right speaker to amplifier's right channel (usually red terminals).
  4. Ensure secure connections and proper polarity.
  5. Turn on amplifier and test at low volume.

Tip: For home theater, use as front left/right channels or as surround speakers.

Placement and Mounting

Optimal placement enhances sound quality.

  1. Bookshelf placement: Place on stable surface at ear level when seated.
  2. Wall mounting: Use keyhole slots with appropriate wall anchors.
  3. Stereo separation: Position speakers 6-10 feet apart for good stereo imaging.
  4. Distance from walls: Keep 6-12 inches from rear wall for better bass response.
  5. Toe-in: Angle speakers slightly toward listening position.

WARNING! When wall mounting, ensure wall can support speaker weight. Use proper mounting hardware.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug amplifier before cleaning speakers. Use soft, dry cloth only; no liquids or chemical cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials or spray cleaners directly on speakers. Keep away from moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose customer service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakerLoose connectionsCheck speaker wire connections at both ends; ensure secure contact.
Distorted soundOverpowering/amplifier issueReduce volume; check amplifier settings; ensure proper power match.
One speaker not workingWire/connection issueSwap speakers to isolate problem; check wiring and amplifier channel.
Hum or buzzGround loop/interferenceCheck all connections; ensure proper grounding; move away from interference sources.
Weak bass responsePlacement issueAdjust speaker placement; move closer to wall for more bass reinforcement.

Service: For technical support, contact Bose customer service or visit www.bose.com

Bose 101 Speakers Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025