Bose 802 Series 2 Service Manual

The Bose 802 Series II is a professional loudspeaker system designed for high-quality sound reinforcement in various applications. This service manual provides detailed information for qualified service personnel, covering system overview, specifications, installation guidelines, wiring diagrams, component replacement procedures, troubleshooting, and maintenance. The speaker features eight 4.5-inch full-range drivers, a tuned port enclosure, and is designed for use with the Bose 802C or 802II Controller for proper equalization.

1. System Overview & Features 2. Technical Specifications 3. Installation Guidelines 4. Wiring & Connections 5. Component Layout & Diagrams 6. Driver Replacement Procedure 7. Crossover & Network Service 8. Enclosure Maintenance 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Parts List & Ordering 11. Safety & Compliance

System Overview & Features

The Bose 802 Series II loudspeaker is a direct/reflecting design utilizing an array of eight full-range drivers for wide dispersion and high output. It requires an external active controller (802C or 802II) for proper frequency response and system protection.

FeatureDescription
Driver ArrayEight 4.5-inch full-range drivers
Enclosure TypeBass-reflex (ported) design
Dispersion120° H x 100° V nominal
Recommended Amplifier PowerUp to 240 watts continuous (per channel into 8 ohms)
Controller RequirementBose 802C or 802II Active Equalizer required
Input ConnectorsTwo 1/4-inch phone jacks (parallel wired)
GrilleRemovable black steel grille with foam backing
Mounting OptionsIntegral flyware points for suspension, pole mount socket
FinishTextured black vinyl over wood cabinet
ApplicationProfessional sound reinforcement, background music, portable PA

Technical Specifications

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation is critical for performance and safety. The cabinet includes integrated flyware for suspension by qualified personnel only.

  1. Site Inspection: Verify structural integrity of mounting points. Ensure adequate clearance for airflow from rear port.
  2. Suspension: Use certified hardware rated for at least 5x speaker weight. Attach to all four fly points. Always use safety cables.
  3. Pole Mounting: Insert 35mm diameter pole into socket on cabinet bottom. Secure locking bolt.
  4. Stacking: Can be stacked horizontally or vertically. Use provided rubber feet to prevent slipping.
  5. Connection: Run speaker cable from amplifier output to controller input, then from controller output to speaker. Observe polarity.

WARNING! Suspended loads are dangerous. Installation must be performed by professionals following all local safety codes.

Wiring & Connections

The speaker uses a simple parallel-wired input. The internal network connects the eight drivers in a series/parallel configuration to present an 8-ohm load.

  1. External Wiring: Use heavy-gauge speaker cable (16 AWG min for long runs). Connect amplifier output to Bose controller, then controller output to speaker.
  2. Input Panel: Two 1/4" phone jacks (Tip+/Ring-). Internally connected in parallel. Use either jack.
  3. Polarity: Maintain consistent polarity (+ to +, - to -) across all speakers in an array.
  4. Multiple Speakers: For parallel connection, ensure amplifier impedance load is within specification (minimum 4 ohms for most amps).

Tip: Label all cables at both ends for easy identification during troubleshooting.

Component Layout & Diagrams

Internal components are mounted on a removable rear access panel.

Internal Layout: Eight drivers mounted on front baffle. Crossover network and input jacks mounted on rear panel. Port tube located between driver arrays.

Wiring Diagram: Drivers are arranged in two vertical columns of four. Each column is a series string of four drivers (16 ohms total). The two columns are then wired in parallel, resulting in an 8-ohm nominal load. The crossover is a first-order network.

Exploded View Reference: See Fig. 1 in manual appendix for detailed part identification and assembly order.

Driver Replacement Procedure

Replacement drivers must be genuine Bose part number 080-xxxxx. Follow ESD precautions.

  1. Disconnect Power: Turn off and unplug amplifier. Disconnect speaker cable.
  2. Remove Grille: Insert flat tool into grille seam at corners and gently pry to release plastic retainers.
  3. Remove Driver: Unscrew the eight mounting screws for the faulty driver. Note wiring polarity (red wire to "+" terminal). Disconnect wires.
  4. Install New Driver: Connect wires to new driver observing correct polarity. Seat driver evenly in baffle. Hand-tighten screws in a cross pattern to avoid warping.
  5. Reassemble: Snap grille back into place. Reconnect cable and test at low volume.

WARNING! Do not overtighten driver screws. Do not puncture driver cone during handling.

Crossover & Network Service

The passive network is potted and non-serviceable. If failure is suspected, the entire network assembly must be replaced.

  1. Access: Remove the rear panel by unscrewing the perimeter screws.
  2. Inspection: Check for burnt components, cracked solder joints, or loose wires.
  3. Replacement: Desolder wires from old network board, noting locations. Install new network board (Part #080-xxxxx) and resolder connections.
  4. Test: Before reassembly, perform a continuity check and a low-power signal test.

CAUTION! The network contains inductors and capacitors that can hold a charge. Allow time to discharge after use.

Enclosure Maintenance

Inspect cabinet regularly for physical damage, loose hardware, or water exposure.

Cleaning: Wipe exterior with a dry, soft cloth. For stubborn marks, use a cloth dampened with mild soapy water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

Grille Care: Vacuum foam backing gently to remove dust. Do not remove foam.

Hardware Check: Periodically check and tighten all mounting points, input jacks, and flyware bolts.

Port Inspection: Ensure the rear port is clear of obstructions.

CAUTION! Do not expose the cabinet to direct moisture or extreme temperatures. Store in a dry environment.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No SoundOpen cable, faulty connection, amplifier offCheck all connections and amplifier power. Test cable continuity. Bypass controller.
Distorted SoundOverdriven amplifier, blown driverReduce amplifier gain. Test each driver individually for rubbing/buzzing.
Intermittent SoundLoose wire, faulty jackInspect internal solder joints on input jacks and driver connections.
Weak OutputPolarity reversal, partial driver failureCheck system polarity. Test each driver for output.
Excessive Bass / Port NoiseMissing controller, incorrect setupEnsure Bose 802C/802II controller is connected and powered. Verify controller settings.

System Test: Use a 1.5V battery to gently tap across speaker terminals. A healthy driver will produce a "pop" and cone movement.

Parts List & Ordering

Genuine Bose replacement parts are required for proper performance and safety.

Ordering: Contact an authorized Bose Professional dealer or Bose Parts Department. Provide serial number from rear label.

Safety & Compliance

This product is designed to comply with applicable safety and EMC standards.

Electrical Safety: Installation and service should be performed by qualified personnel. Disconnect all power before servicing.

Mechanical Safety: Ensure all suspension and mounting hardware is certified and inspected regularly. The speaker is heavy; lift with proper technique or mechanical aid.

EMC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference.

Disposal: Dispose of electronic components and batteries according to local regulations.

Support: For technical assistance, contact Bose Professional Support or visit www.bose.com/pro.

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