Bose 501 Series IV Manual

The Bose 501 Series IV is a bookshelf speaker system designed for high-fidelity stereo sound reproduction. It features Direct/Reflecting speaker technology, a 10-inch woofer, two 3-inch tweeters, adjustable high-frequency controls, and a ported enclosure for enhanced bass response. This manual covers safety, setup, placement, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for optimal performance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Placement 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to Audio Systems 7. Adjusting Sound Performance 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/Reflecting speaker design, 10-inch woofer, dual 3-inch tweeters, adjustable high-frequency controls, ported bass enclosure, and gold-plated binding posts.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Technology	Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious stereo imaging
10-inch Woofer	Provides deep, accurate bass response
Dual 3-inch Tweeters	Delivers clear, detailed high frequencies
Adjustable High-Frequency Controls	Customize treble output to room acoustics
Ported Enclosure	Enhances low-frequency efficiency and extension
Gold-Plated Binding Posts	Secure connection for speaker wire (up to 12-gauge)
Grille Cloth	Removable acoustic fabric grille
Enclosure Finish	Wood veneer or vinyl finish options
Recommended Amplifier Power	10-150 watts per channel
Impedance	8 ohms nominal

Installation & Placement

Unpack and inspect speakers. Choose stable, level surfaces.

Place speakers on stands or shelves at ear level when seated.
Position speakers 6-12 inches from rear wall for optimal bass.
Angle speakers slightly inward toward listening position.
Ensure at least 2 feet clearance from side walls and corners.
Keep away from heat sources, moisture, and direct sunlight.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care using two people. Ensure placement is stable to prevent tipping.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to amplifier/receiver; adjust settings.

Turn off amplifier/receiver before connecting.
Strip 1/2 inch insulation from speaker wire ends.
Connect positive (+) terminal on amplifier to positive (+) terminal on speaker (red).
Connect negative (–) terminal on amplifier to negative (–) terminal on speaker (black).
Repeat for second speaker, maintaining consistent polarity.
Set amplifier/receiver impedance to 8 ohms if adjustable.
Adjust high-frequency controls based on room acoustics.

CAUTION! Do not exceed 150 watts per channel to avoid speaker damage.

Specifications

Type: 2-way, 3-driver bookshelf speaker system.
Woofer: 10-inch (25.4 cm) long-throw.
Tweeters: Two 3-inch (7.6 cm) front-firing.
Frequency Response: 45Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-150 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 90dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt input.
Crossover Frequency: 2.5kHz.
Enclosure Type: Ported (bass reflex).
Dimensions (H x W x D): Approx. 24 x 14 x 12 inches (61 x 35.5 x 30.5 cm).
Weight: Approx. 35 lbs (15.9 kg) each.
Finish: Walnut, Oak, or Black vinyl.

Controls and Connections

Rear panel includes binding posts and high-frequency adjustment controls.

Binding Posts: Accept bare wire, spade lugs, or dual banana plugs (red = positive, black = negative).

High-Frequency Controls: Two rotary knobs adjust output of each tweeter independently (range: -6dB to +3dB).

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

Connecting to Audio Systems

Compatible with stereo receivers, integrated amplifiers, and AV receivers.

Ensure amplifier/receiver is powered off.
Connect left speaker to amplifier's left channel outputs.
Connect right speaker to amplifier's right channel outputs.
For bi-wiring (if supported), remove jumper bars and use separate cables for woofer and tweeter sections.
Turn on amplifier at low volume; test both channels.

Tip: Use high-quality, oxygen-free copper speaker wire (16-12 gauge) for best performance.

Adjusting Sound Performance

Optimize sound for your room and listening preferences.

Adjust high-frequency controls: Increase for bright rooms, decrease for soft surfaces.
Experiment with speaker placement: Moving closer to wall increases bass; farther away reduces boominess.
Toe-in angle: Adjust inward angle to focus stereo image.
Use speaker spikes or isolation pads if placed on resonant surfaces.
Allow 50-100 hours of break-in for optimal performance.

WARNING! Avoid extreme equalization boosts that may cause amplifier clipping and driver damage.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug amplifier before cleaning speakers. Use soft, dry cloth for cabinet. Use vacuum with brush attachment for grille cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Keep drivers dry; do not touch tweeter domes.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliance for any electronic crossover components. 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 amplifier issue	Check speaker wire connections at both ends; swap speakers to isolate problem.
Distorted sound at high volume	Amplifier clipping or overdriving	Reduce volume; ensure amplifier power is within 10-150 watts per channel.
Weak bass response	Incorrect placement or phase issue	Move speaker closer to wall; check polarity of connections.
Excessive brightness or harshness	Room acoustics or control settings	Adjust high-frequency controls downward; add room furnishings.
Buzzing or rattling	Loose grille or internal component	Ensure grille is secure; inspect for loose screws on driver.

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

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