Bose 201 Speaker Manual

The Bose 201 Direct/Reflecting® Speaker is a bookshelf speaker system designed to deliver balanced stereo sound with wide dispersion. It features a Direct/Reflecting speaker array, dual angled drivers, a front-firing port, and is compatible with most stereo receivers and amplifiers. 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 Guide 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/Reflecting speaker array, Dual angled drivers (woofer/tweeter), Front-firing port, Speaker terminals, Grille.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting array	Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious stereo imaging
Dual angled drivers	Woofer and tweeter positioned to optimize dispersion
Front-firing port	Enhances bass response without rear wall proximity requirements
Speaker terminals	5-way binding posts for secure wire connections
Removable grille	Cloth grille for driver protection and aesthetic flexibility
Compact design	Bookshelf or stand-mountable form factor
Wide dispersion	Engineered for consistent sound across listening areas
High compatibility	Works with most stereo receivers and amplifiers (4-8 ohms)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose stable location.

Position speakers: Place on sturdy shelves or stands at ear level when seated.
Ensure clearance: Allow at least 2 inches from rear wall for port breathing.
Angle speakers: Point tweeters toward listening area for optimal imaging.
Connect speaker wire: Use appropriate gauge wire for distance.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure placement is secure to prevent tipping.

First-Time Setup

Connect to amplifier/receiver; power on system.

Strip wire: Expose 1/2 inch of bare wire at each end.
Connect to speakers: Insert wire into binding posts (observe polarity).
Connect to amplifier: Match left/right channels and polarity (+/-).
Test sound: Play audio at low volume to confirm proper connection.
Adjust placement: Fine-tune speaker angle and distance for best soundstage.

CAUTION! Ensure amplifier is off when connecting wires to prevent shorts or damage.

Specifications

Type: 2-way Direct/Reflecting bookshelf speaker.
Drivers: Dual angled (woofer and tweeter).
Frequency Response: 55Hz - 20kHz.
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-100 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 89 dB SPL (1 watt, 1 meter).
Port Design: Front-firing.
Dimensions (H x W x D): Approx. 14" x 8.5" x 8.25".
Weight: Approx. 12 lbs each.
Finish: Black or white vinyl veneer.

Controls and Connections

No active controls on speaker. All adjustments via amplifier/receiver.

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

Polarity: Ensure positive (+) and negative (-) terminals match amplifier connections for proper phase.

Grille Removal: Gently pull from corners to remove for cleaning or driver inspection.

Connecting to Audio Systems

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

Turn off and unplug amplifier before connections.
Use 16- or 14-gauge speaker wire for runs up to 50 feet.
Connect left speaker to amplifier's left channel, right to right.
Secure connections tightly to avoid loose wire hum or intermittent sound.
For bi-wiring (if supported), remove jumper bars and use separate cables for woofer/tweeter.

Tip: Keep speaker wires away from power cables to reduce interference.

Optimal Placement Guide

Positioning significantly affects sound quality.

Bookshelf: Place on sturdy shelf, flush to front edge, angled toward listener.
Stands: Use speaker stands for ideal height (tweeter at ear level).
Distance: Space speakers 6-10 feet apart for stereo separation.
Room boundaries: Avoid corners to reduce bass boom; maintain distance from walls.
Toe-in: Angle speakers inward 15-30 degrees for focused center image.

WARNING! Do not place near heat sources, moisture, or in direct sunlight.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug amplifier before cleaning speakers. Use soft, dry cloth for cabinet; vacuum grille gently if dusty.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Do not remove drivers.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and EMC standards. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose and the Bose logo are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose wire or incorrect polarity	Check connections at speaker and amplifier; ensure secure and correct +/-.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier or damaged wire	Reduce volume; inspect wire for fraying or shorts.
Weak bass	Placement near boundaries or port obstruction	Move speaker away from walls; ensure port is unobstructed.
Intermittent sound	Loose binding post or wire	Tighten binding posts; re-strip and secure wire.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop or interference	Route speaker wires away from power cables; check amplifier grounding.

Service: Do not attempt to repair. Contact Bose Customer Service for assistance.

Support: www.bose.com