Bose 701 Speakers Service Manual

The Bose 701 is a high-performance floor-standing loudspeaker system designed for premium audio reproduction. This service manual covers technical specifications, installation guidelines, wiring configurations, crossover details, driver replacement procedures, troubleshooting, and maintenance for authorized service personnel. 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 Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Driver & Crossover Details 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-excursion woofers, Direct/Reflecting speaker array, proprietary Bose waveguide technology, multi-element crossover network, bi-wire capable binding posts.

FeatureDescription
Driver ConfigurationDual 8-inch woofers, dual 2.5-inch midrange drivers, single 1-inch tweeter
Impedance4-8 ohms nominal
Frequency Response38Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Sensitivity90dB (2.83V/1m)
Power Handling10-250 watts RMS
Crossover Frequency350Hz, 2.5kHz
Binding PostsGold-plated, 5-way, bi-wire capable
Enclosure TypeBass-reflex (ported)
Dimensions (HxWxD)42" x 10.5" x 16" (1067 x 267 x 406 mm)
Weight65 lbs (29.5 kg) each

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Positioning: Place speakers at least 2 feet from walls and 8 feet apart for optimal stereo imaging.
  2. Spike Installation: Attach provided spikes to base plate for carpeted floors; use rubber feet for hard surfaces.
  3. Angle Adjustment: Adjust speaker angle toward listening position using built-in tilt mechanism.
  4. Connect speaker wires: Ensure amplifier is powered off before making connections.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; use two people for lifting and positioning to avoid injury.

First-Time Setup

Connect to amplifier/receiver; follow positioning guidelines.

  1. Wire connection: Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from speaker wire ends. Connect to binding posts (red to positive, black to negative).
  2. Bi-wiring: Remove jumper bars if bi-wiring. Connect separate amplifier channels to woofer and tweeter/midrange posts.
  3. Polarity check: Ensure all speakers are in phase (positive to positive, negative to negative).
  4. Initial testing: Play test tones at low volume to verify all drivers are functioning.

CAUTION! Do not exceed recommended power ratings. Ensure proper ventilation around amplifier.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

Amplifier Settings: Volume, tone controls, balance, crossover settings (if using with subwoofer).

Room Adjustment: Use port plugs (included) to adjust bass response in room corners or near walls. Insert both plugs for maximum bass reduction.

Bi-wiring Configuration: Remove metal jumper plates between binding posts. Connect separate amplifier channels or bi-wire cables.

Connecting Devices

Connect to stereo amplifier, AV receiver, or separate power amplifiers.

  1. Turn off all equipment before making connections.
  2. Use 12-16 gauge speaker wire for runs up to 50 feet.
  3. For bi-amping: Use separate amplifier channels for woofer and tweeter/midrange sections.
  4. Check polarity: Ensure consistent polarity across all speakers in system.

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

Driver & Crossover Details

Service procedures for authorized technicians only.

  1. Grille removal: Gently pull magnetic grille from front baffle.
  2. Driver replacement: Remove screws from driver flange. Disconnect wiring harness noting polarity.
  3. Crossover access: Remove rear panel to access crossover network mounted on internal baffle.
  4. Crossover components: 350Hz and 2.5kHz crossover points with 12dB/octave slopes.
  5. Test points: Use provided test points on crossover board for signal verification.
  6. Reassembly: Ensure all gaskets are properly seated before tightening screws.
  7. Testing: After service, test with frequency sweep at low volume.

WARNING! High voltages may be present in crossover network. Disconnect from amplifier and discharge capacitors before servicing.

Accessibility Features

Magnetic grilles for easy removal. Front-ported design allows placement closer to walls. Included port plugs for bass adjustment in various room configurations.

Care & Cleaning

Use soft, dry cloth for cabinet cleaning. For stubborn marks, dampen cloth with mild soap solution. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

Grille care: Use soft brush attachment on vacuum cleaner. Do not wash fabric grilles.

CAUTION! Do not allow liquids to enter ports or driver openings. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European markets. RoHS compliant. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For technical support, visit www.bose.com or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from one speakerWire connection, amplifier channelCheck wire connections; test amplifier channel with known working speaker.
Distorted soundOverdriven amplifier, damaged driverReduce volume; inspect driver for physical damage.
Weak bass responsePort blockage, room placementRemove objects from port; reposition speaker; insert/remove port plugs.
Buzzing/rattlingLoose driver, internal wiringTighten driver screws; inspect internal connections.
Uneven frequency responseRoom acoustics, placementAdjust speaker position; use room correction if available on amplifier.

Factory Reset: No user-resettable components. Service required for internal issues.

Service Centers: Authorized Bose service centers only. Contact 1-800-999-2673 for locations.

Bose 701 Speakers Service Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025