Bose 201 Series V Manual

The Bose 201 Series V is a bookshelf speaker system designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction. It features Direct/Reflecting® speaker technology for a spacious soundstage, Articulated Array® speaker design for consistent tonal balance, a 6.5-inch woofer for deep bass, and a 1-inch tweeter for clear highs. 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 cabinet, Articulated Array® driver configuration, 6.5-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter, multi-position mounting options, and gold-plated binding posts.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting® Technology	Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious audio
Articulated Array® Design	Ensures consistent tonal balance across listening area
6.5-inch Woofer	Provides deep, accurate bass response
1-inch Tweeter	Delivers clear, detailed high frequencies
Gold-Plated Binding Posts	For secure, high-quality speaker wire connections
Multi-Position Mounting	Supports shelf, wall, or stand placement
Magnetic Shielding	Prevents interference with nearby video displays
Vented Cabinet Design	Enhances bass performance and reduces distortion
High-Power Handling	Suitable for amplifiers up to 150 watts per channel
Impedance	8 ohms nominal for compatibility with most receivers

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose stable location away from heat sources and moisture.

Position speakers: Place on shelves, stands, or mount on wall using optional brackets.
Connect speaker wires: Strip insulation, insert into binding posts (red for positive, black for negative).
Connect to amplifier/receiver: Match left/right channels to corresponding outputs.
Ensure secure connections and route wires safely to avoid tripping.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure mounting surface can support weight.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to audio system; follow these steps for optimal performance.

Position speakers: Place at ear level when seated, angled slightly toward listening area.
Connect wires: Use 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire for best results.
Set amplifier/receiver: Configure for stereo or surround sound as needed.
Test audio: Play music to verify both speakers are working correctly.

CAUTION! Do not place speakers directly against walls; allow at least 2-4 inches for ventilation.

Specifications

Type: 2-way bookshelf speaker.
Woofer: 6.5 inches.
Tweeter: 1 inch.
Frequency Response: 55Hz - 20kHz.
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-150 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 90 dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt.
Dimensions (H x W x D): Approximately 14 x 8.5 x 7.5 inches.
Weight: Approximately 12 lbs each.
Finish: Black vinyl or wood grain veneer.

Controls and Connections

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

Binding Posts: Red (positive), black (negative). Accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs.

Amplifier/Receiver Settings: Volume, balance, tone controls (bass/treble), and input selection.

Placement Options: Shelf, stand, or wall mount (using optional Bose mounting brackets).

Connecting to Audio Systems

Compatible with stereo receivers, AV receivers, and most amplifiers.

Turn off amplifier/receiver before connecting.
Connect left speaker to left channel outputs, right speaker to right channel outputs.
Ensure polarity is correct (positive to positive, negative to negative).
For surround sound, use as front left/right or rear left/right speakers.

Tip: Use high-quality speaker wire and keep lengths equal for both speakers.

Optimal Placement

Proper placement enhances sound quality and imaging.

Stereo listening: Place speakers 6-10 feet apart, angled toward listening position.
Height: Position tweeters at ear level when seated.
Distance from walls: Keep 2-4 inches from rear wall for best bass response.
Surround sound: Follow receiver manufacturer's guidelines for placement.
Isolation: Use foam pads or stands to reduce vibrations.

WARNING! Do not place speakers in enclosed cabinets or directly on heat sources.

Care & Maintenance

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

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

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	Check speaker wire connections at both ends; ensure amplifier is on.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume on amplifier; check for clipping.
Intermittent sound	Faulty wire or connection	Inspect wires for damage; reconnect securely.
Uneven sound balance	Balance setting or placement	Adjust balance on amplifier; reposition speakers symmetrically.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop or interference	Ensure all components share same ground; move speakers away from power sources.

Reset: Power cycle amplifier/receiver if issues persist.

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