Bose 802 Controller User Manual

The Bose 802 Controller is an active equalizer designed specifically for use with Bose 802 Series III loudspeakers. It provides precise frequency contouring to optimize speaker performance for various applications, featuring input/output connections, level controls, EQ adjustments, and protection circuits. Below are key sections covering features, installation, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Active equalizer circuit, Input/Output connectors, Level controls, EQ adjustment sliders, Power switch, Status indicators.

Feature	Description
Input Connectors	Balanced XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs
Output Connectors	Balanced XLR outputs to power amplifier
Level Controls	Input gain and output level adjustment
EQ Sliders	Precise frequency contouring for 802 speakers
Power Switch	Main power on/off control
Status LED	Power and signal indication
Protection Circuit	Overload and thermal protection
Ground Lift Switch	Eliminates ground loop hum
Bypass Switch	Engages/disengages EQ processing
Power Connector	Standard IEC power inlet

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place in well-ventilated rack space.

Connect audio source: Use balanced cables from mixer to controller inputs.
Connect to amplifier: Use balanced cables from controller outputs to power amp inputs.
Connect speakers: Ensure proper wiring from amplifier to Bose 802 speakers.
Plug into AC power using provided power cord.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block cooling vents. Use appropriate rack mounting hardware.

First-Time Setup

Power on controller; verify proper connections.

Set initial levels: Start with input gain at minimum, output level at unity.
Engage EQ: Ensure bypass switch is off for normal operation.
Check ground: Use ground lift switch if hum is present.
Test system: Play audio through system at low volume to verify operation.

CAUTION! Always power on controller before power amplifier to prevent pops. Reverse order when powering down.

Specifications

Type: Active equalizer for Bose 802 Series III speakers.
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz ±0.5dB.
EQ Curves: Optimized for 802 speaker characteristics.
Input Impedance: 20k ohms balanced.
Output Impedance: 100 ohms balanced.
Maximum Input Level: +20dBu.
THD+N: <0.01% @ 1kHz.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15W.
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
Dimensions: 19" rack mountable, 1U height.

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Power switch, Input gain, Output level, EQ sliders, Bypass switch, Status LED.

Rear Panel: Input connectors (XLR/TRS), Output connectors (XLR), Ground lift switch, Power connector, Fuse holder.

EQ Adjustment: Eight frequency bands optimized for 802 speakers. Level Controls: Input gain adjusts sensitivity, output level controls signal to amplifier. Bypass: Disengages EQ for flat response comparison. Ground Lift: Breaks ground loop to eliminate hum.

Connecting Devices

Audio Source: Mixer outputs to controller inputs. Amplifier: Controller outputs to power amp inputs.

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Use balanced cables for best noise rejection.
Connect left and right channels appropriately.
Secure all connections to prevent disconnection.

Tip: Label cables for easy identification during setup and troubleshooting.

Operation Guidelines

Optimal settings for various applications.

Power sequence: Controller ON first, then amplifier. Reverse when powering down.
Gain structure: Set input gain so peak LED illuminates only on loudest passages.
EQ adjustment: Start with factory settings; make subtle adjustments as needed.
Bypass function: Use to compare processed vs. unprocessed sound.
Monitoring: Regularly check status LED and listen for distortion.

WARNING! Avoid extreme EQ settings that may cause amplifier clipping or speaker damage.

Protection Features

Overload Protection: Limits output to prevent amplifier clipping. Thermal Protection: Shuts down if internal temperature exceeds safe limits. Status Indicators: LED shows normal operation, protection activation, or fault conditions.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; avoid liquids.

CAUTION! Do not use chemical cleaners. Keep vents clear of dust and obstructions.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for commercial use. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All trademarks property of Bose Corporation. For technical support, visit www.bose.com or contact 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output signal	Power/cables	Check power connection; verify input/output cables; ensure bypass is off.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop	Engage ground lift switch; check cable shielding; verify proper grounding.
Distorted sound	Overload	Reduce input gain; check source levels; ensure amplifier not clipping.
EQ not affecting sound	Bypass engaged	Disengage bypass switch; verify slider positions.
Unit overheats	Ventilation	Ensure adequate ventilation; clear obstructions; reduce ambient temperature.

Reset: Power cycle unit if abnormal operation occurs.

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