Bose 251 Outdoor Speakers Manual

The Bose 251 Environmental Speakers are designed for outdoor use with weather-resistant construction, Articulated Array® speaker design for wide sound dispersion, and durable materials to withstand various weather conditions. 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. Operation Guidelines 8. Weather Resistance Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Weather-resistant enclosure, Articulated Array® speaker design, stainless steel and aluminum hardware, integrated mounting bracket.

Feature	Description
Articulated Array® design	Wide, even sound dispersion for outdoor spaces
Weather-resistant construction	Designed to withstand sun, rain, salt fog, and temperature extremes
Stainless steel hardware	Corrosion-resistant for long-term outdoor use
Integrated mounting bracket	Allows for easy wall, ceiling, or horizontal surface mounting
Speaker terminals	5-way binding posts for secure wire connections
Input power handling	Handles amplifier power from 10-100 watts per channel
Frequency response	55Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Impedance	4-8 ohms compatible
Dimensions	12.5" H x 6.5" W x 6.5" D (31.8cm x 16.5cm x 16.5cm)
Weight	5.5 lbs (2.5kg) each

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate outdoor location.

Select mounting location: Choose wall, ceiling, or horizontal surface with proper support.
Prepare mounting surface: Ensure surface is stable and can support speaker weight.
Mount bracket: Use provided hardware to secure mounting bracket to surface.
Attach speaker: Slide speaker onto bracket and secure with locking knob.
Connect speaker wires: Use weather-resistant 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire.

WARNING! Ensure mounting surface is structurally sound. Use appropriate tools and hardware for installation.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to audio amplifier/receiver.

Position speakers: Place speakers at ear level when seated, 8-20 feet apart for optimal stereo imaging.
Connect to amplifier: Use speaker wire to connect each speaker to amplifier's left and right channels.
Secure connections: Ensure wire connections are tight and protected from weather.
Test system: Play audio at low volume to verify proper connection and sound quality.
Adjust positioning: Fine-tune speaker angle using Articulated Array design for best coverage.

CAUTION! Ensure amplifier is turned off when making connections to prevent damage.

Specifications

Speaker Type: 2-way outdoor environmental speaker system
Driver Complement: Two 2.5" (6.35cm) full-range drivers, One 5.25" (13.34cm) woofer
Power Handling: 10-100 watts per channel
Impedance: 4-8 ohms compatible
Frequency Response: 55Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Sensitivity: 87dB-SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt of power
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-100 watts per channel
Enclosure: Weather-resistant polymer
Grille: Powder-coated, stainless steel
Mounting: Integrated bracket for wall, ceiling, or horizontal surface
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 150°F (-40°C to 65°C)

Controls and Connections

No active controls on speakers. All control through connected amplifier/receiver.

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

Mounting Adjustments: Locking knob for secure mounting, adjustable angle for optimal sound direction.

Wire Connections: Red terminal for positive (+), black terminal for negative (-). Ensure proper polarity for best performance.

Connecting to Audio Sources

Connect to stereo amplifier, AV receiver, or multi-zone audio system.

Turn off amplifier before making connections.
Strip 1/2 inch (12mm) of insulation from speaker wire ends.
Connect positive wire to red terminal, negative wire to black terminal.
Ensure connections are tight and secure.
Use weatherproof wire connectors if exposed to elements.
Route wires safely away from foot traffic and potential damage.

Tip: Use outdoor-rated speaker wire (16-gauge minimum) for best performance and durability.

Operation Guidelines

For optimal performance and longevity.

Power on sequence: Turn on amplifier first, then audio source.
Volume control: Adjust volume at amplifier, not at speakers.
Sound adjustment: Use amplifier's tone controls if needed.
Multiple speakers: For multi-zone setups, ensure amplifier can handle total impedance load.
Seasonal use: Speakers can remain installed year-round in most climates.
Performance monitoring: Listen for distortion which may indicate amplifier clipping.

WARNING! Do not exceed recommended amplifier power to prevent speaker damage.

Weather Resistance Features

Designed for outdoor durability.

UV-resistant enclosure material
Stainless steel and aluminum hardware
Water-resistant driver components
Drainage channels in mounting bracket
Powder-coated grille for corrosion resistance

Note: While weather-resistant, avoid direct exposure to sprinklers or submersion in water.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long-term performance.

Cleaning: Use soft cloth with mild soap and water. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
Grille cleaning: Remove dust with soft brush or compressed air.
Wire inspection: Check connections annually for corrosion or damage.
Mounting hardware: Inspect and tighten annually if needed.
Winter care: No special winterization needed for most climates.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water spray. Do not apply lubricants to moving parts.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. 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 speakers	Amplifier off/connections	Check amplifier power; verify wire connections; ensure proper input selection.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume; check amplifier power rating matches speakers.
One speaker not working	Wire/connection issue	Check connections at both speaker and amplifier; test with known working speaker.
Reduced bass response	Positioning/enclosure	Ensure speakers are mounted securely; check for obstructions near woofer.
Corrosion on terminals	Weather exposure	Clean terminals with electrical contact cleaner; use weatherproof connectors.
Speaker rattling	Loose components	Check mounting hardware; ensure grille is secure; inspect for debris inside.

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