Bose 161 Speaker System Manual

The Bose 161 Speaker System is a compact, high-performance speaker system designed for home audio applications. It features Articulated Array® speaker design for wide sound dispersion, moisture-resistant construction for versatility, and easy installation options for bookshelf, wall, or ceiling mounting. 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. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Articulated Array® speaker design, moisture-resistant construction, wall-mount brackets, speaker grilles, and user manual.

Feature	Description
Articulated Array® design	Provides wide, consistent sound coverage throughout the room
Moisture-resistant	Suitable for use in bathrooms, kitchens, or covered outdoor areas
Compact size	Fits easily on bookshelves or mounted on walls/ceilings
Easy installation	Includes mounting brackets and hardware for flexible placement
High-performance drivers	Delivers clear, balanced sound across frequencies
Speaker terminals	5-way binding posts for secure wire connections
Removable grilles	Magnetic attachment for easy cleaning and aesthetic flexibility

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose installation location based on room layout and listening preferences.

Select location: Ensure stable surface or secure wall/ceiling structure.
Prepare speaker wire: Use 16- to 22-gauge speaker wire; strip insulation from ends.
Connect wires to speakers: Match polarity (+ to +, - to -) on both speaker and amplifier.
Secure speakers: Use included brackets for wall/ceiling mounting; ensure tight fit.
Connect to amplifier: Ensure amplifier is off; connect speaker wires to appropriate channels.

WARNING! Ensure mounting surface can support speaker weight. Keep speakers away from direct heat sources and excessive moisture.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; configure audio settings.

Position speakers: For stereo, place left and right speakers at ear level, 6-10 feet apart.
Connect to amplifier: Use speaker wire to connect each speaker to amplifier's left/right channels.
Set amplifier settings: Adjust volume, balance, and tone controls to preference.
Test sound: Play audio source to ensure proper connection and sound output.

CAUTION! Do not overtighten mounting hardware. Ensure wires are not pinched or damaged during installation.

Specifications

Speaker Type: 2-way, bookshelf/mountable.
Driver Complement: Two Articulated Array® drivers per speaker.
Frequency Response: 75Hz - 20kHz.
Impedance: 8 ohms.
Power Handling: Up to 100 watts per channel.
Dimensions: 7.5" H x 4.5" W x 4.25" D (with grille).
Weight: 2.2 lbs per speaker.
Finish: Black or white with removable grille.
Moisture Resistance: Suitable for damp environments (not fully waterproof).

Controls and Connections

Speakers have no onboard controls; all adjustments made through connected amplifier/receiver.

Connections: 5-way binding posts accept bare wire, pin connectors, spade lugs, or banana plugs (single or dual).

Amplifier Settings: Adjust volume, balance, bass, treble, and input source on amplifier. Placement: Adjust speaker angle and distance for optimal sound staging.

Connecting to Audio Sources

Connect speakers to stereo receiver, amplifier, or home theater system.

Turn off amplifier before connecting wires.
Strip 3/8 inch of insulation from speaker wire ends.
Connect to speaker terminals: Ensure positive (+) and negative (-) match on both ends.
Connect to amplifier: Match left/right channels for stereo imaging.
Power on amplifier and test at low volume.

Tip: Use high-quality speaker wire for best performance. Keep wire runs as short as possible.

Mounting Options

Supports bookshelf, wall, and ceiling mounting.

Bookshelf: Place on stable surface; angle toward listening area.
Wall mounting: Use included brackets; mark drill points; use wall anchors if needed.
Ceiling mounting: Use optional ceiling mount kit (sold separately); ensure secure attachment to joists.
Adjust angle: Loosen bracket knob to aim speaker; tighten to secure position.

WARNING! Use appropriate hardware for mounting surface. Do not mount in areas with direct water exposure.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not remove drivers or attempt internal repairs. Keep grilles clean by gently vacuuming or wiping with dry cloth.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: 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 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speaker	Loose connections/amplifier off	Check wire connections; ensure amplifier is on and volume up.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier/damaged wire	Reduce volume; check for damaged wires or connections.
Intermittent sound	Loose wire connections	Secure all connections at speaker and amplifier terminals.
One speaker not working	Channel imbalance/wire fault	Swap speaker wires to test channel; check for wire damage.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/interference	Ensure proper grounding; separate speaker wires from power cables.

Reset: Check amplifier settings and reconnect wires if issues persist.

Service: 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com