Bose 701 Series 1 Manual

The Bose 701 Series 1 is a high-fidelity direct/reflecting speaker system designed to deliver spacious, room-filling sound. It features proprietary Bose technologies, a unique driver array for wide dispersion, and is engineered for both stereo and home theater applications. 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 Connections 6. Connecting to Audio Systems 7. Optimal Placement Guide 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/Reflecting speaker cabinet, Proprietary driver array, High-power handling, Magnetically shielded drivers, Gold-plated binding posts.

FeatureDescription
Direct/Reflecting TechnologyCombines direct and reflected sound for spacious audio imaging
Driver ArrayMultiple drivers arranged for wide, even dispersion
High-Power HandlingDesigned for use with high-power amplifiers
Magnetic ShieldingAllows placement near video displays without interference
Gold-Plated Binding PostsFor secure, high-quality wire connections
Sturdy Cabinet ConstructionDesigned to minimize resonance and vibration
Grille DesignRemovable acoustic cloth grille for protection and aesthetics
ImpedanceCompatible with most stereo and AV receivers
Frequency ResponseExtended low-frequency performance
Finish OptionsAvailable in wood veneer or black vinyl

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate location for optimal sound.

  1. Position speakers: Place speakers at ear level, facing listening area. Allow space from walls.
  2. Connect speaker wire: Strip insulation, connect to binding posts (red to +, black to -).
  3. Connect to amplifier/receiver: Ensure amplifier is off. Connect wires to corresponding terminals.
  4. Secure connections: Tighten binding posts to prevent loose connections.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care using proper technique. Ensure amplifier is turned off during connection.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; adjust settings for optimal performance.

  1. Set amplifier volume to minimum before powering on.
  2. Play test audio: Use a familiar music source at low volume.
  3. Adjust balance: Use receiver balance control to center sound image.
  4. Fine-tune placement: Experiment with speaker angle and distance from walls for best soundstage.

CAUTION! Do not overpower speakers. Match amplifier power to speaker specifications.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

Speakers are passive; control via connected amplifier/receiver. Primary connection points are gold-plated binding posts.

Binding Posts: Accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (where permitted). Red terminal is positive (+), black is negative (-).

Amplifier/Receiver Controls: Volume, Balance, Tone Controls (Bass/Treble), Input Selection.

Placement Adjustments: Toe-in angle, distance from rear/side walls, height adjustment (using optional stands).

Connecting to Audio Systems

Stereo System: Connect left/right channels. Home Theater: Use as front left/right speakers.

  1. Turn off and unplug amplifier/receiver.
  2. Prepare speaker wire: Use 16-gauge or thicker for longer runs.
  3. Connect wires to speakers: Ensure polarity is consistent (red to red, black to black).
  4. Connect wires to amplifier: Match channels (Left speaker to Left output).
  5. Secure all connections before powering on.

Tip: Keep speaker wires away from power cables to avoid hum or interference.

Optimal Placement Guide

Proper placement is critical for the direct/reflecting design to perform correctly.

  1. Distance from walls: Start with speakers 1-2 feet from rear wall, 2-3 feet from side walls.
  2. Listening position: Form an equilateral triangle with speakers and primary listening seat.
  3. Toe-in: Angle speakers slightly inward toward listening position.
  4. Height: Position tweeters at or slightly above ear level when seated.
  5. Experiment: Small adjustments can significantly improve soundstage and imaging.
  6. Room considerations: Avoid corners which can exaggerate bass. Use rugs or drapes to control reflections.

WARNING! Do not place speakers in enclosed cabinets or directly against walls. Ensure adequate ventilation around cabinets.

Care & Maintenance

Use dry, soft cloth for cabinet cleaning. For grille, use soft brush or vacuum with brush attachment.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Keep away from excessive moisture and heat sources.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and EMC regulations. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose customer service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from one speakerLoose connection or wiring faultCheck all wire connections at speaker and amplifier. Ensure wires are not frayed.
Distorted soundOverdriven amplifier or clippingReduce volume on amplifier. Check amplifier power rating matches speakers.
Weak bass responseIncorrect placementMove speaker away from wall or adjust toe-in. Check phase (polarity).
Hum or buzzGround loop or interferenceEnsure speaker wires are not parallel to power cables. Check all connections are tight.
Uneven sound between speakersBalance setting or room asymmetryAdjust balance control on amplifier. Check speaker placement symmetry.

Reset: Ensure all connections are secure and polarity is correct.

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

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