Bose 301 Series III Speakers Manual

The Bose 301 Series III are direct/reflecting bookshelf speakers designed to deliver spacious stereo imaging and balanced sound reproduction. They feature a unique angled front baffle for controlled direct/reflected sound, dual 8-inch woofers, a 2.5-inch tweeter with Bose's Stereo Targeting technology, and a ported enclosure for enhanced bass response. 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 Placement 6. Connecting to Audio Systems 7. Optimal Listening Setup 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/reflecting bookshelf design, angled front baffle, dual 8-inch woofers, 2.5-inch tweeter with Stereo Targeting, ported enclosure, gold-plated binding posts.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Design	Angled baffle controls mix of direct and reflected sound for spacious imaging
Dual 8-inch Woofers	Provide extended bass response and power handling
2.5-inch Tweeter	High-frequency driver with Stereo Targeting for wide dispersion
Ported Enclosure	Enhances low-frequency output and efficiency
Gold-Plated Binding Posts	Secure connection for speaker wire (banana plugs or bare wire)
Magnetic Shielding	Prevents interference with nearby CRT displays (if applicable)
Angled Baffle	Optimizes speaker placement for best stereo imaging
Grille	Removable acoustic cloth grille for protection and aesthetics
Enclosure Material	Durable wood composite construction
Finish Options	Available in black or walnut vinyl veneer

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface or mount securely.

Choose location: Place on shelves, stands, or wall-mount brackets (sold separately).
Position speakers: Ensure angled baffle faces inward toward listening area.
Connect speaker wire: Strip insulation, connect to amplifier/receiver terminals matching polarity (+ to +, - to -).
Secure connections: Tighten binding posts to prevent loose wires.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; use care when handling. Ensure mounting surface can support weight.

First-Time Setup

Connect to audio system; adjust placement for optimal sound.

Connect to amplifier: Use 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire; match left/right channels.
Set amplifier power: Ensure amplifier/receiver matches speaker impedance (8 ohms nominal).
Position speakers: Place at ear level, angled toward listening position, away from walls for best bass.
Test sound: Play audio at moderate volume to verify connections and stereo imaging.

CAUTION! Do not overpower speakers; avoid clipping from amplifier to prevent damage.

Specifications

Type: 2-way, 3-driver direct/reflecting bookshelf speaker.
Woofer: Dual 8-inch (200mm) long-throw drivers.
Tweeter: 2.5-inch (64mm) with Stereo Targeting waveguide.
Frequency Response: 48Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Power Handling: 10-150 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 90dB SPL (1 watt at 1 meter).
Enclosure: Ported, wood composite.
Dimensions (H x W x D): Approx. 20.5" x 11.5" x 10.5" (521mm x 292mm x 267mm).
Weight: Approx. 22 lbs (10 kg) each.

Controls and Placement

No electronic controls on speakers. Placement is critical for performance.

Placement Guidelines: Angled baffle should face listening area; place at ear level when seated. For bookshelf use, ensure front baffle is flush with shelf edge. For stand mounting, use sturdy stands. Avoid corners to reduce bass boom. Distance from rear wall: 6-24 inches for balanced bass.

Stereo Targeting: Tweeter design directs high frequencies for wide sweet spot. Ensure left and right speakers are symmetrical relative to listening position.

Connecting to Audio Systems

Use with stereo receivers, amplifiers, or home theater systems.

Turn off amplifier before connecting.
Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from speaker wire.
Connect to binding posts: Red for positive (+), black for negative (-).
Connect other end to amplifier, matching polarity.
Secure connections and route wires safely.

Tip: Use banana plugs for easier connections and better contact.

Optimal Listening Setup

Adjust placement for best sound quality.

Position speakers at equal distance from listening spot (form equilateral triangle).
Angle speakers so tweeters point just behind listener's head.
Adjust distance from wall to control bass: closer for more bass, farther for less.
Experiment with toe-in: slight inward angle improves imaging.
Use speaker stands for best isolation and height adjustment.

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

Care & Maintenance

Dust with soft, dry cloth. For grille, remove gently and vacuum with brush attachment.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or solvents on speaker surfaces. Do not remove drivers or modify enclosure.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and EMC standards. Bose and 301 are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service. This product is designed for indoor use only.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose wire or amplifier issue	Check connections at speaker and amplifier; ensure amplifier is on and set to correct input.
Distorted sound	Overpowering or clipping	Reduce volume on amplifier; check for damaged voice coils.
Weak bass	Placement or phase issue	Move speaker closer to wall; check polarity of connections (+/-).
Uneven stereo image	Incorrect placement or balance	Reposition speakers symmetrically; adjust balance control on amplifier.
Buzzing or rattling	Loose part or damaged driver	Check for loose grille or binding posts; inspect driver for damage.

Service: Do not attempt to repair speakers yourself. Contact Bose authorized service center.

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