Bose 601 Series 3 Manual

The Bose 601 Series 3 is a direct/reflecting speaker system designed to deliver spacious stereo sound. It features a unique driver array with two angled 6.5-inch woofers and a 2.5-inch tweeter, utilizing Bose's Stereo Targeting™ technology to create a wide soundstage. This manual covers safety, setup, placement, connection, operation, and maintenance for optimal performance.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/reflecting speaker cabinet, two 6.5-inch woofers, one 2.5-inch tweeter, Stereo Targeting™ technology, gold-plated binding posts, grille cloth.

Feature	Description
Driver Array	Two 6.5-inch woofers angled at 45°, one 2.5-inch tweeter
Stereo Targeting™	Technology for wide, spacious soundstage
Impedance	4-8 ohms (compatible with most amplifiers)
Power Handling	Up to 200 watts per channel
Frequency Response	45Hz - 20kHz
Binding Posts	Gold-plated for secure connection
Grille	Removable acoustically transparent cloth
Cabinet	Wood veneer finish (varies by model)
Dimensions	Approx. 15" H x 12" W x 10" D
Weight	Approx. 25 lbs per speaker

Installation & Placement

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

Room Placement: For best sound, place speakers along the longer wall of the room, angled slightly inward toward listening area.
Distance from Walls: Position at least 6-12 inches from rear and side walls to optimize bass response and reflection.
Height: Place at ear level when seated for optimal tweeter performance.
Mounting: Use appropriate brackets if wall-mounting; ensure secure attachment to studs.

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; power on system.

Identify Left/Right: Mark or note which speaker is left and right for proper stereo imaging.
Connect Wires: Use high-quality speaker wire; strip ends and connect to binding posts (red to +, black to -).
Amplifier Connection: Connect opposite ends to amplifier's speaker outputs, matching polarity.
Test Sound: Play audio at low volume to ensure both speakers are working correctly.

CAUTION! Ensure amplifier is off when connecting wires to avoid short circuits or damage.

Specifications

Type: 3-way direct/reflecting speaker system.
Drivers: Two 6.5-inch woofers, one 2.5-inch tweeter.
Power Handling: 10-200 watts per channel.
Impedance: 4-8 ohms nominal.
Frequency Response: 45Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
Sensitivity: 90dB SPL at 1 watt/1 meter.
Crossover Frequency: 400Hz and 2.5kHz.
Connections: Gold-plated binding posts.
Finish: Wood veneer (oak, black, or walnut).
Dimensions: 15" H x 12" W x 10" D (per speaker).
Weight: 25 lbs each.

Controls and Connections

No active controls on speaker. All adjustments made via amplifier/receiver.

Binding Posts: Red (+) and black (-) for speaker wire connection. Accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (where permitted).

Grille Removal: Gently pull grille from corners to remove for cleaning or inspection; press back into place.

Amplifier Settings: Adjust volume, balance, tone (bass/treble) on amplifier for desired sound. Use amplifier's room correction if available.

Connecting to Amplifiers

Compatible with most stereo amplifiers and AV receivers.

Turn off and unplug amplifier before connecting.
Use 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire for runs over 20 feet.
Connect one speaker to left channel, other to right channel, ensuring consistent polarity.
Secure connections; avoid loose strands that could cause short circuits.

Tip: For bi-wiring (if supported), remove jumper bars on binding posts and use separate cables for woofers and tweeters.

Operation & Sound Adjustment

Optimize sound through placement and amplifier settings.

Angling: Adjust speaker angle to direct primary reflection toward listening position.
Distance: Experiment with distance from walls to balance bass and soundstage.
Amplifier Settings: Use tone controls to adjust bass/treble to room acoustics.
Volume: Operate within amplifier's power rating to avoid distortion or damage.
Break-in: Allow 20-30 hours of play at moderate volume for drivers to settle.

WARNING! Do not exceed amplifier's power rating; clipping can damage speakers.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasives on cabinet or grille. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and EMC standards. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All trademarks are property 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 fault	Check wire connections at both speaker and amplifier; ensure secure contact.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier or damaged driver	Reduce volume; inspect driver for physical damage; check amplifier power rating.
Weak bass	Placement near room boundaries	Move speaker farther from walls; adjust angle; check amplifier bass settings.
Uneven stereo image	Incorrect placement or balance setting	Re-position speakers symmetrically; adjust amplifier balance control.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop or interference	Ensure all connections are tight; try different outlet; use shielded cables.

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

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