Bose 601 Series IV Manual

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/Reflecting speaker cabinets, speaker grilles, owner's manual, and warranty card.

Installation & Placement

Unpack and inspect contents. Place speakers on stable, level surfaces.

1. Choose location: For optimal Direct/Reflecting sound, place speakers at least 2-3 feet from walls and corners.
2. Positioning: Angle speakers slightly inward toward the primary listening area.
3. Secure placement: Ensure speakers are stable and cannot be easily tipped over.
4. Connect wiring: Use high-quality speaker wire appropriate for the distance to your amplifier.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care using proper technique. Ensure stable placement to prevent tipping and injury.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to your audio system following these steps.

1. Power off amplifier/receiver: Always turn off and unplug your amplifier before making connections.
2. Strip speaker wire: Strip approximately 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire end.
3. Connect to speaker terminals: Match polarity (+ to +, - to -) on both speakers and amplifier. Use red for positive, black for negative.
4. Connect to amplifier: Run wires from each speaker to the corresponding left and right channel outputs on your amplifier.
5. Power on and test: Turn on amplifier at low volume to verify proper operation.

CAUTION! Never exceed the recommended power handling. Ensure all connections are secure and correct to prevent damage.

Specifications

• Model: Bose 601 Series IV.
• Type: 3-way direct/reflecting loudspeaker system.
• Drivers: Two 6.5-inch woofers, one 2.5-inch tweeter per cabinet.
• Nominal Impedance: 4-8 ohms.
• Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-200 watts per channel.
• Frequency Response: 45Hz - 20kHz (±3dB).
• Sensitivity: 90dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt input.
• Crossover Frequency: 400Hz and 2.5kHz.
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 24" x 14" x 12" (61cm x 35.5cm x 30.5cm).
• Weight: Approximately 35 lbs (15.9 kg) per cabinet.
• Finish: Black vinyl or optional oak/ walnut veneer.

Controls and Connections

Speakers have no active controls. All adjustments are made through your amplifier/receiver.

Terminals: 5-way binding posts on rear panel. Accept bare wire (insert into hole and tighten), pin connectors, spade lugs, or banana plugs (where permitted).

Grille Removal: Gently pull grille from corners to remove for cleaning or inspection. Do not use excessive force.

Polarity: Ensure consistent positive (+) and negative (-) connections between amplifier and both speakers for proper stereo imaging.

Connecting to Audio Systems

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

1. Stereo System: Connect left speaker to amplifier's left channel (A or Main), right speaker to right channel.
2. Home Theater: Use as front left/right speakers. Connect to receiver's Front L/R terminals.
3. Bi-wiring (if supported by amplifier): Use two separate cables per speaker, connecting one to woofer terminals and one to tweeter terminals.

Tip: Use high-quality, oxygen-free copper speaker wire of sufficient gauge (16 AWG or lower for longer runs).

Operation Guidelines

For best performance, follow these operational tips.

1. Break-in period: Allow up to 20 hours of play at moderate volume for drivers to reach optimal performance.
2. Volume levels: Avoid sustained playback at maximum amplifier output to prevent driver damage.
3. Room acoustics: Experiment with speaker placement and toe-in angle to achieve the best soundstage for your room.
4. Source material: Use high-quality recordings to fully appreciate the speaker's capabilities.
5. Amplifier matching: Ensure your amplifier can comfortably drive a 4-8 ohm load.

WARNING! Do not play distorted audio signals at high volume, as this can overheat and damage speaker voice coils.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug amplifier before cleaning speakers. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust cabinets. For stubborn marks, lightly dampen cloth with water only. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

Grille Care: Vacuum gently with brush attachment or use compressed air to remove dust. Do not wash or immerse grille in liquid.

CAUTION! Keep speakers away from direct heat sources, excessive moisture, and direct sunlight to prevent damage to finishes and components.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards. This product may be protected by patents issued and/or pending. Bose and the Bose medallion are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Service: Do not attempt to repair speakers yourself. Contact Bose authorized service center for any internal issues.

Support: www.bose.com