Bose 301 Series 4 Manual

The Bose 301 Series 4 are direct/reflecting bookshelf speakers designed to deliver spacious stereo sound. They feature a 25 cm (10-inch) woofer and a 2.5 cm (1-inch) tweeter with Bose's proprietary Stereo Targeting technology for wide, room-filling sound dispersion. 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 cabinets, Stereo Targeting tweeter array, 10-inch woofer, multi-position switch, gold-plated binding posts.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Design	Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious stereo imaging
Stereo Targeting Tweeter Array	Dual angled tweeters control sound dispersion for optimal stereo effect
10-inch Woofer	Delivers powerful, accurate bass response
Multi-Position Switch	Adjusts tweeter output based on speaker placement (Wall, Shelf, Floor)
Gold-Plated Binding Posts	Accepts bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs for secure connection
Magnetic Shielding	Prevents interference with nearby video displays
Port Design	Tuned port enhances bass performance without distortion
Durable Cabinet	Constructed from high-density materials with wood-grain vinyl finish
Grille Design	Removable acoustically transparent cloth grille
Impedance	8 ohms nominal for compatibility with most amplifiers and receivers

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Handle speakers with care.

Choose location: Place speakers at ear level when seated, angled toward listening position.
Set Multi-Position Switch: Select WALL, SHELF, or FLOOR based on placement.
Connect speaker wire: Strip insulation, connect to amplifier/receiver matching polarity (+ to +, - to -).
Secure connections: Tighten binding posts to prevent loose wires.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift properly to avoid injury. Ensure amplifier is turned off during connection.

First-Time Setup

Follow these steps for optimal performance.

Position speakers: Place at least 6-8 feet apart, angled 30-45 degrees toward listening area.
Adjust Multi-Position Switch: Set to match your placement (WALL for mounted, SHELF for bookshelf, FLOOR for stand).
Connect to amplifier: Use high-quality 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire for best performance.
Test sound: Play audio at moderate volume to verify proper operation and stereo imaging.

CAUTION! Do not place speakers where they may fall. Keep away from heat sources and moisture.

Specifications

Type: 2-way direct/reflecting bookshelf speaker system.
Woofer: 25 cm (10-inch) high-excursion driver.
Tweeter: 2.5 cm (1-inch) Stereo Targeting dual array.
Frequency Response: 48Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-150 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 90dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt input.
Dimensions (H x W x D): 53.3 x 27.9 x 26.7 cm (21 x 11 x 10.5 inches).
Weight: 9.1 kg (20 lbs) each.
Finish: Black ash or cherry wood-grain vinyl.

Controls and Connections

Rear panel features: Multi-Position Switch, Binding Posts (+/-).

Multi-Position Switch: Adjusts tweeter output for different placements. WALL reduces high frequencies for boundary reinforcement. SHELF provides balanced response. FLOOR boosts highs for floor placement.

Binding Posts: Gold-plated 5-way posts accept bare wire (insert through hole), spade lugs, or banana plugs. Red for positive (+), black for negative (-).

Grille Removal: Gently pull from bottom corners to remove cloth grille for cleaning or inspection.

Connecting to Audio Systems

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

Turn off and unplug all audio components before connecting.
Measure and cut speaker wire: Allow extra length for routing.
Strip insulation: 1/2 inch (12mm) of bare wire exposed.
Connect to amplifier: Match right speaker to right channel, left to left.
Connect to speakers: Insert wire into binding posts, ensuring no stray strands touch opposite terminal.
Secure connections: Tighten binding posts firmly.

Tip: Use identical length wires for both speakers to maintain balanced sound.

Optimal Placement Guide

Proper placement is critical for achieving the signature Bose direct/reflecting sound.

Bookshelf Placement: Place on sturdy shelf at ear level. Set switch to SHELF. Position near front edge of shelf.
Wall Mounting: Use appropriate brackets. Position with tweeters at ear level. Set switch to WALL.
Floor Stands: Use 24-30 inch stands. Angle toward listening position. Set switch to FLOOR.
Listening Triangle: Form equilateral triangle with speakers and primary listening position.
Distance from Walls: Keep 6-12 inches from rear wall, 2-3 feet from side walls for best bass response.
Toe-in Angle: Angle speakers 30-45 degrees inward toward listening area.

WARNING! Do not place speakers where they may obstruct walkways. Secure properly when wall mounting.

Care & Maintenance

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

Grille Cleaning: Remove grille, vacuum gently with brush attachment, or use compressed air.

Cabinet Cleaning: Wipe with slightly damp cloth, then dry immediately. Avoid abrasive materials.

Driver Care: Do not touch woofer or tweeter diaphragms. Use soft brush to remove dust.

CAUTION! Never use solvents, alcohol, or abrasive cleaners. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital 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 at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose connection or wire damage	Check all connections; test with known working wire; verify amplifier output.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier or damaged driver	Reduce volume; check for torn woofer surround; inspect for foreign objects.
Weak bass response	Incorrect placement or switch setting	Adjust distance from walls; verify Multi-Position Switch setting; check phase (+/-).
Uneven stereo image	Incorrect placement or balance setting	Reposition speakers symmetrically; adjust amplifier balance control; check room acoustics.
Buzzing or humming	Ground loop or interference	Check all connections; ensure proper grounding; separate speaker wires from power cables.

Reset: Verify all connections, switch settings, and amplifier settings.

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