Bose 791 Ceiling Speakers Manual

The Bose 791 Ceiling Speakers are high-performance, in-ceiling loudspeakers designed for premium audio reproduction in home theater and multi-room audio systems. They feature Articulated Array® speaker technology for wide, even sound dispersion, a pivoting 2.5-inch tweeter for precise sound aiming, paintable grilles for seamless room integration, and are designed for easy installation in standard ceiling joists. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Articulated Array® speaker assembly, pivoting tweeter, paintable magnetic grille, integrated mounting system, and gold-plated binding posts.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure you have proper tools and safe access to ceiling.

1. Choose location: Select spot between joists, avoiding pipes, wires, and ductwork. Use template to mark cutout.
2. Cut ceiling hole: Use drywall saw to cut clean 9-1/8-inch diameter hole.
3. Prepare wiring: Run speaker wire from amplifier/receiver to hole. Leave 18-24 inches slack.
4. Mount speaker: Insert speaker into hole, rotate mounting clamps clockwise to secure against joists.
5. Connect wires: Strip 1/2 inch insulation, connect to gold binding posts (positive to red, negative to black).
6. Attach grille: Place magnetic grille over speaker; ensure it sits flush with ceiling.

WARNING! Turn off amplifier/receiver before connecting wires. Ensure ceiling can support speaker weight. Verify no live electrical wires in work area.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure with your audio system.

1. Set amplifier/receiver: Ensure unit is off. Connect speaker wires to correct channel outputs (e.g., Front Left, Surround Right).
2. Configure speaker settings: In receiver menu, set speaker size to "Small" and crossover to 80Hz or higher for best results.
3. Aim tweeter (optional): For optimal imaging, pivot tweeter toward primary listening area.
4. Test speaker: Power on system at low volume; play test tone to verify connection and balance.
5. Paint grille (optional): If desired, remove grille and paint with light, spray-based paint. Do not paint speaker cone.

CAUTION! Do not over-tighten binding posts. Do not exceed recommended power handling. Ensure polarity is correct (+ to +, - to -).

Specifications

• Model: Bose 791 II (or as specified).
• Type: In-ceiling loudspeaker.
• Drivers: Four 2.5-inch full-range drivers, one 2.5-inch pivoting tweeter.
• Power Handling: 10-100 watts per channel (continuous), 200 watts peak.
• Impedance: 8 ohms.
• Frequency Response: 55Hz – 16kHz (±3dB).
• Sensitivity: 89dB SPL (1 watt at 1 meter).
• Cutout Diameter: 9-1/8 inches (232mm).
• Mounting Depth: 4-1/2 inches (114mm) minimum.
• Grille: Magnetic, paintable white polypropylene.
• Weight: Approximately 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) each.
• Warranty: Limited warranty – refer to Bose documentation.

Controls and Settings

No physical controls on speaker. All settings managed through connected amplifier/receiver.

Receiver/Amp Settings: Volume, balance, tone controls (bass/treble), speaker size (Small/Large), crossover frequency (recommend 80Hz or higher), channel level calibration.

Tweeter Pivot: Manually adjust tweeter angle by gently rotating its housing. Aim toward listening position for enhanced high-frequency detail.

Grille Removal: Gently pull grille from ceiling using fingertips or flat tool. Reattach by aligning magnets.

Connecting to Audio Systems

Compatible with most home theater receivers, stereo amplifiers, and multi-room audio systems.

1. Identify amplifier/receiver speaker outputs (e.g., Front, Surround, Zone 2).
2. For each speaker, run 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire (for runs over 50 feet, use 14-gauge).
3. Connect positive (+) terminal on amplifier to red (+) terminal on speaker. Connect negative (-) to black (-).
4. For multi-room systems, assign speakers to appropriate zones in system controller.
5. Ensure impedance load on amplifier is within specifications (e.g., minimum 4 ohms per channel).

Tip: Use banana plugs for secure, clean connections. Label wires during installation for easy identification.

Operation and Performance

Designed for high-fidelity music and home theater sound.

1. Power on system: Turn on amplifier/receiver; select source (e.g., CD, TV, Streaming).
2. Adjust volume: Use receiver remote or controls. Start at low volume after prolonged silence.
3. Optimize sound: Use receiver's room calibration (if available) for best frequency response.
4. For home theater: Ensure speakers are assigned correctly in receiver setup (e.g., front height, surround).
5. For music: Stereo or multi-channel modes provide immersive listening.
6. Grille painting: If painting, use light coats of spray paint designed for plastics. Allow full drying before reattaching.

WARNING! Do not play at maximum volume for extended periods. Avoid moisture exposure. Do not push on speaker cones.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for grille and speaker surface.

For stubborn grille stains, use mild soap and water on cloth; wring thoroughly. Do not spray liquid directly on grille or speaker. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Never vacuum speaker cones. Avoid touching driver surfaces. Keep magnets away from electronic devices and credit cards.

Regulatory Information

Complies with FCC Part 15 for Class B digital devices. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright and trademarks owned by Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Reset: No user-resettable function on speaker. Reset amplifier/receiver to factory defaults if needed.

Service: For product service, contact Bose Customer Service: 1-800-999-2673 or www.bose.com.