Bose 401 Speakers Manual

The Bose 401 Direct/Reflecting® speakers are a classic bookshelf speaker system designed to deliver spacious, room-filling sound through a combination of direct and reflected audio. Featuring a unique angled driver configuration, they are suitable for stereo music listening and home theater applications. Below are key sections covering overview, setup, placement, specifications, operation, care, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking & Inspection 3. Speaker Placement Guide 4. Specifications 5. Connections & Setup 6. Operation & Performance 7. Care & Maintenance 8. Regulatory & Safety 9. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/Reflecting® design, angled drivers, bookshelf/stand mounting, removable grilles, multi-room capable.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting® Technology	Combines direct sound with reflected room sound for spacious audio
Angled Driver Configuration	Optimizes sound dispersion and imaging
Bookshelf/Stand Design	Compact enclosure for flexible placement
Removable Grille	Cloth grille for protection and aesthetics
Multi-Room Capable	Can be used in stereo pairs or as part of a multi-room system
High-Excursion Woofers	Delivers deep, accurate bass response
Tweeter Array	Provides clear, detailed high frequencies
Gold-Plated Terminals	5-way binding posts for secure wire connections
Magnetically Shielded	Safe placement near CRT televisions (if applicable)
Finish Options	Typically available in black or walnut vinyl

Unpacking & Inspection

Carefully unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all parts are present and undamaged.

Remove speakers from packaging: Handle with care, avoid touching drivers.
Inspect for damage: Check cabinet, grille, and terminals.
Identify left/right speakers: Usually marked or symmetrical.
Save packaging: For storage or future transport.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift properly to avoid injury. Do not use sharp objects near speaker cones.

Speaker Placement Guide

Optimal placement is critical for best performance. Follow these guidelines.

Stereo Pair: Place speakers at ear level, angled slightly inward toward listening position.
Distance from walls: For bass reinforcement, place 6-12 inches from rear wall.
Symmetry: Ensure left and right speakers are equidistant from primary listening spot.
Bookshelf/Stands: Use stable, level surfaces or dedicated speaker stands.
Reflective surfaces: Utilize room boundaries to enhance Direct/Reflecting® effect.

CAUTION! Ensure placement surface is stable and can support speaker weight.

Specifications

Type: 2-way, Direct/Reflecting® bookshelf speaker.
Woofer: High-excursion, sized appropriately for model (e.g., 6.5").
Tweeter: Array of small drivers for high frequencies.
Frequency Response: Typically 55Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-100 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: Approximately 90dB (2.83V/1m).
Dimensions (H x W x D): Varies by model (e.g., 14" x 8.5" x 10.5").
Weight: Approximately 15 lbs (7 kg) each.
Finish: Vinyl wood grain or black.

Connections & Setup

Connecting to amplifier/receiver. Front Panel: Removable grille only. Rear: Binding posts.

Connection Steps:

Turn off and unplug amplifier.
Strip speaker wire: 1/2 inch insulation, twist strands.
Connect to terminals: Match polarity (+ to +, - to -) on both speaker and amp.
Secure connections: Use binding posts (banana plugs, spades, or bare wire).
Repeat for second speaker.
Power on amplifier at low volume, test.

Tip: Use high-quality speaker wire of sufficient gauge (e.g., 16 AWG) for best performance.

Operation & Performance

Operating your Bose 401 speakers with your audio system.

Power Sequence: Always turn amplifier on last, off first to prevent pops.
Volume: Start at low volume, gradually increase to desired level.
Source Selection: Use amplifier/receiver to select input (CD, Tuner, etc.).
Sound Characteristics: Expect wide soundstage due to Direct/Reflecting® design.
Break-in Period: Sound may improve after several hours of use at moderate volume.
Room Adjustment: Fine-tune placement for optimal bass and imaging.

WARNING! Do not exceed amplifier's power rating to avoid speaker damage.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug system before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only; no liquids or chemicals.

Cabinet: Wipe with dry cloth. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen cloth with water only.
Grille: Remove gently, vacuum with brush attachment if needed. Do not wash.
Drivers: Do not touch or clean directly. Use compressed air for dust if necessary.
Terminals: Keep clean and tight; ensure no corrosion.

CAUTION! Never spray cleaners directly on speaker. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory & Safety

Complies with applicable safety and EMC standards. Copyright and trademarks owned by Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose customer service. This product is designed for indoor use with proper ventilation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from one speaker	Loose wire or incorrect connection	Check wire connections at both speaker and amplifier. Ensure polarity is correct.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier or damaged driver	Reduce volume. Inspect driver for physical damage. Check amplifier power rating.
Weak bass	Incorrect placement	Move speaker closer to wall or corner. Ensure stands/shelves are solid.
Sound imbalance (left/right)	Placement or balance control	Verify symmetrical placement. Check amplifier balance setting.
Buzzing/rattling	Loose part or wire vibration	Ensure grille is secure. Check for loose internal wiring (may require service).

Service: For persistent issues, contact Bose Customer Service. Do not attempt to open or repair speakers yourself.

Support: www.bose.com | Refer to your local Bose contact for service.