Bose 201 Series IV Speakers Manual

The Bose 201 Series IV are direct/reflecting bookshelf speakers designed to deliver spacious stereo imaging and clear sound reproduction. They feature a unique dual-angled design with a 6.5-inch woofer and a 2.5-inch tweeter, allowing for flexible placement as main or surround speakers. 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. Optimal Placement 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/reflecting speaker design, 6.5-inch woofer, 2.5-inch tweeter, angled baffle, multi-position switch, gold-plated binding posts.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Design	Creates spacious stereo imaging by combining direct and reflected sound
6.5-inch Woofer	Delivers clear, full-range bass response
2.5-inch Tweeter	Provides detailed high-frequency reproduction
Angled Baffle	Optimizes sound dispersion for flexible placement
Multi-Position Switch	Adjusts frequency response for shelf, wall, or stand mounting
Gold-Plated Binding Posts	Ensures secure, corrosion-resistant wire connections
Magnetic Shielding	Prevents interference with nearby CRT televisions
Durable Cabinet	Constructed from high-density materials to reduce resonance
Grille Design	Acoustically transparent cloth grille for optimal sound
Flexible Placement	Suitable for bookshelf, wall, or stand mounting

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose stable, level surface for placement.

Position speakers: Place on sturdy shelves, stands, or mount on wall using appropriate brackets.
Set Multi-Position Switch: Adjust based on placement (SHELF, WALL, or STAND).
Connect speaker wires: Use 16-gauge or thicker wire; strip insulation, connect to binding posts.
Connect to amplifier/receiver: Ensure proper polarity (+ to +, - to -).
Power on audio system and test speakers.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure all connections are secure and polarity is correct.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure speakers for optimal performance.

Set Multi-Position Switch: Locate on rear panel; set to SHELF, WALL, or STAND based on placement.
Connect to amplifier: Use speaker wire to connect left and right channels correctly.
Adjust amplifier settings: Set volume to minimum, then gradually increase to test.
Position for best sound: Angle speakers slightly inward toward listening area.
Test with various audio sources to ensure balanced sound.

CAUTION! Ensure stable surface; avoid placing near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

Specifications

Type: 2-way direct/reflecting bookshelf speaker.
Woofer: 6.5 inches (165 mm).
Tweeter: 2.5 inches (64 mm).
Frequency Response: 55 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB).
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10 – 100 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 89 dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt.
Dimensions (H x W x D): Approximately 14.5" x 8.5" x 7.5" (368 x 216 x 191 mm).
Weight: Approximately 11 lbs (5 kg) each.
Finish: Black vinyl or optional wood veneer.

Controls and Connections

Rear panel features: Multi-Position Switch, Gold-Plated Binding Posts.

Multi-Position Switch: Adjusts frequency response for optimal performance in different placements: - SHELF: For placement on bookshelves or enclosed spaces. - WALL: For wall-mounted installation. - STAND: For placement on speaker stands or open spaces.

Binding Posts: Accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (where permitted). Ensure secure connection and proper polarity.

Connecting to Audio Systems

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

Turn off amplifier/receiver before connecting.
Strip speaker wire: Remove 1/2 inch (12 mm) of insulation from each wire end.
Connect to speakers: Insert bare wire into binding post holes or use connectors; tighten securely.
Connect to amplifier: Match left/right channels and polarity (+ to +, - to -).
Power on system and test at low volume.

Tip: Use equal-length speaker wires for left and right channels to maintain balance.

Optimal Placement

For best stereo imaging and sound quality:

Position at ear level: Place tweeters at or slightly above seated ear height.
Maintain symmetry: Place left and right speakers equidistant from listening position.
Angle inward: Point speakers toward listening area for focused soundstage.
Avoid corners: Place at least 1-2 feet from walls/corners to reduce bass boom.
Use isolation pads: On shelves, use pads to decouple speakers and reduce vibration.
Experiment: Small adjustments can significantly improve sound quality.

WARNING! Do not place speakers where they may fall. Secure wall mounts properly.

Care & Maintenance

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

Grille Care: Remove gently by pulling from corners; clean with soft brush or vacuum with brush attachment.

Cabinet Care: Wipe with dry cloth; for stubborn marks, use slightly damp cloth, then dry immediately.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on speakers; keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

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. This product may be covered by one or more patents; see www.bose.com/patents.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose connection or wire	Check wire connections at both speaker and amplifier; ensure secure contact.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier or damaged wire	Reduce volume; check for pinched or frayed speaker wires.
Weak bass response	Incorrect switch setting or placement	Adjust Multi-Position Switch; move speaker away from wall/corner.
Uneven stereo image	Asymmetric placement or room acoustics	Reposition speakers symmetrically; adjust toe-in angle.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop or interference	Ensure all connections are tight; try different outlet or ground lift adapter.

Reset: Check amplifier settings and speaker connections if issues persist.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Service for technical support or warranty information.