Bose 301 Series 2 Manual

The Bose 301 Series 2 are direct/reflecting bookshelf speakers designed to deliver a spacious stereo image. They feature a 10-inch acoustic mass woofer, a 3-inch high-frequency driver, and Bose's proprietary Direct/Reflecting technology. 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 cabinet, 10-inch acoustic mass woofer, 3-inch high-frequency driver, Stereo Targeting tweeter, 5-way binding post terminals.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Design	Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious stereo imaging
10-inch Acoustic Mass Woofer	Delivers deep, accurate bass response
3-inch High-Frequency Driver	Provides clear, detailed midrange and highs
Stereo Targeting Tweeter	Angled design helps create wide stereo soundstage
5-way Binding Posts	Accepts banana plugs, spade lugs, or bare wire up to 12-gauge
Recommended Power	10-150 watts per channel
Impedance	8 ohms nominal
Frequency Response	45Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Dimensions	15.75" H x 10.5" W x 9.5" D (40cm x 26.7cm x 24.1cm)
Weight	17.6 lbs (8 kg) each

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface or appropriate stands.

Choose location: Place speakers at ear level when seated, angled toward listening position.
Connect speaker wire: Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from wire ends.
Attach to terminals: Connect positive (+) terminal on amplifier to positive (+) terminal on speaker (red). Connect negative (-) to negative (black).
Secure connections: Tighten binding posts to prevent loose connections.

WARNING! Ensure amplifier is turned off before making connections to prevent damage or electrical shock.

First-Time Setup

Proper placement is critical for optimal performance.

Position speakers: Place speakers at least 6-12 inches from walls for best bass response.
Angle speakers: Rotate cabinets so Stereo Targeting tweeters point toward listening area.
Connect to amplifier: Use high-quality speaker wire (16-gauge or thicker for longer runs).
Test system: Play audio at moderate volume to verify proper operation.

CAUTION! Do not place speakers where they may fall. Use included feet or proper stands.

Specifications

Type: 2-way direct/reflecting bookshelf speaker system.
Woofer: 10-inch acoustic mass design.
High-Frequency Driver: 3-inch with Stereo Targeting.
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-150 watts per channel.
Frequency Response: 45Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
Sensitivity: 90dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt input.
Crossover Frequency: 2.5kHz.
Dimensions: 15.75" H x 10.5" W x 9.5" D.
Weight: 17.6 lbs each.
Finish: Black ash vinyl veneer.

Controls and Connections

No electronic controls on speakers. All adjustments made through connected amplifier/receiver.

Terminals: 5-way binding posts accept banana plugs (remove plastic caps), spade lugs, or bare wire.

Placement Controls: Performance optimized through proper positioning: - Distance from walls affects bass response - Angling affects stereo imaging - Height relative to listener affects frequency balance

Connecting to Audio Systems

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

Turn off all equipment before connecting.
Connect left speaker to amplifier's left channel outputs.
Connect right speaker to amplifier's right channel outputs.
For home theater: Use as front left/right channels in 5.1 or 7.1 systems.

Tip: Use identical length speaker wires for both channels to maintain balance.

Optimal Placement Guide

Proper placement maximizes the Direct/Reflecting technology.

Distance from walls: 6-12 inches from rear wall, 2-3 feet from side walls.
Height: Tweeters at ear level when seated (approximately 36-42 inches).
Angling: Point Stereo Targeting tweeters toward primary listening position.
Separation: Place speakers 6-10 feet apart for typical listening rooms.
Symmetry: Ensure both speakers have similar reflective surfaces around them.
Experiment: Small adjustments can significantly improve sound quality.

WARNING! Do not place in enclosed cabinets or directly against walls. Allow proper ventilation.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth only. Do not use liquids or chemical cleaners.

Regular Maintenance: - Dust cabinet with soft brush or dry cloth - Check wire connections periodically for tightness - Inspect speaker grilles for damage

CAUTION! Never attempt to repair speakers yourself. Contact authorized service for any issues.

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. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose connection	Check wire connections at both amplifier and speaker ends.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume on amplifier; ensure amplifier power matches speaker rating.
Weak bass response	Improper placement	Move speaker further from walls or adjust positioning.
Uneven stereo image	Asymmetric placement	Ensure both speakers are equidistant from listening position.
Buzzing or humming	Ground loop or interference	Check all connections; ensure proper grounding of audio system.

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