Bose 161 Bookshelf Speaker System Manual

The Bose 161 Bookshelf Speaker System is a compact, high-performance stereo speaker pair designed for home audio applications. Featuring Articulated Array® speaker design for wide sound dispersion, magnetic shielding for placement near video displays, and versatile mounting options. 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 Sources 7. Mounting Options 8. Placement Guidelines 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two Bose 161 speakers, Grilles, Mounting template, User's manual, Warranty information.

Feature	Description
Articulated Array® design	Provides wide, consistent sound coverage throughout the room
Magnetic shielding	Allows placement near TVs and computer monitors without interference
Compact size	Fits easily on shelves, desks, or mounted on walls
Versatile connectivity	Accepts standard speaker wire connections
High-quality construction	Durable materials with removable cloth grilles
Wide frequency response	Delivers clear highs and full midrange tones
8-ohm impedance	Compatible with most home stereo receivers and amplifiers
Wall-mount capable	Includes keyhole slots for secure wall mounting
Tabletop placement	Rubber feet included for stable shelf/desk placement
Bose quality assurance	Manufactured to Bose audio performance standards

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose placement location.

Remove protective packaging from both speakers.
Attach rubber feet if using on shelves or desks.
Connect speaker wires: Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from wire ends.
Connect to terminals: Match positive (+) to positive, negative (-) to negative on both speakers and amplifier.
Secure connections: Ensure wire strands are fully inserted into binding posts.

WARNING! Ensure amplifier is turned off before making connections. Do not exceed recommended power input.

First-Time Setup

Position speakers for optimal sound performance.

Place speakers: Position at ear level when seated for best results.
Maintain symmetry: Place speakers equidistant from listening position.
Angle speakers: Point toward listening area for focused sound.
Connect to amplifier: Use 16-gauge or larger speaker wire for best performance.
Test system: Play audio at moderate volume to verify proper operation.

CAUTION! Keep speakers away from heat sources and moisture. Allow adequate ventilation.

Specifications

Speaker Type: 2-way bookshelf speakers
Driver Complement: Two articulated full-range drivers per speaker
Frequency Response: 120Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-100 watts per channel
Sensitivity: 87dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt input
Dimensions (H x W x D): 7.5" x 4.5" x 5.5" (19.1 x 11.4 x 14 cm)
Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg) each
Magnetic Shielding: Yes
Finish: Black or white vinyl with removable black cloth grille
Warranty: Limited 5-year warranty

Controls and Connections

Speakers feature simple binding post connections. No onboard controls.

Rear Panel: Two binding posts (positive/negative) for speaker wire connection.

Grille Attachment: Press-fit design; gently pull corners to remove for cleaning.

Mounting Options: Keyhole slots on rear for wall mounting; rubber feet for shelf placement.

Amplifier Requirements: Compatible with receivers providing 10-100 watts per channel at 8 ohms.

Connecting to Audio Sources

Connect to stereo receiver, amplifier, or compatible audio source.

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Prepare speaker wire: Strip 1/2 inch insulation from both ends.
Connect to amplifier: Match left/right channels to corresponding speaker positions.
Connect to speakers: Insert bare wire into binding posts and tighten.
Polarity check: Ensure positive/negative connections match on both ends.

Tip: Use banana plugs for easier connection/disconnection if your amplifier supports them.

Mounting Options

Wall mounting or shelf placement available.

Wall mounting: Use included template to mark screw positions.
Install hardware: Use appropriate wall anchors for your wall type.
Attach speakers: Hang using keyhole slots on speaker rear.
Shelf placement: Attach rubber feet to bottom of speakers.
Desk placement: Ensure stable surface; angle toward listening position.

WARNING! When wall mounting, ensure screws are securely anchored. Do not mount above recommended weight capacity.

Placement Guidelines

Optimal placement enhances sound quality.

Distance from walls: Place 1-2 feet from rear wall for best bass response.
Height: Position tweeters at ear level when seated.
Separation: Place speakers 6-10 feet apart for stereo imaging.
Listening triangle: Form equilateral triangle with listening position.
Magnetic shielding: Allows placement within 12 inches of video displays.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug amplifier before cleaning speakers. Use dry cloth only; no liquids or chemicals.

Grille Cleaning: Remove grille by gently pulling from corners. Vacuum lightly or use soft brush.

Cabinet Cleaning: Wipe with soft, dry cloth. For stubborn marks, dampen cloth slightly with water only.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents, abrasives, or spray cleaners. Do not immerse in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. Articulated Array is a registered trademark of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose connection	Check speaker wire connections at both ends; ensure secure contact.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume on amplifier; check amplifier power rating.
Intermittent sound	Damaged wire	Inspect speaker wire for breaks or fraying; replace if necessary.
Weak bass response	Placement issue	Move speakers closer to wall or corner; adjust positioning.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/interference	Check all connections; ensure proper grounding of audio system.
One speaker quieter	Balance setting	Check amplifier balance control; ensure centered position.
TV interference	Insufficient shielding	Move speakers further from TV; ensure magnetic shielding is intact.

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673 or visit www.bose.com/support

Warranty: 5-year limited warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship.