Bose 802 Series II Controller Manual

The Bose 802 Series II Controller is an active equalizer and system controller designed specifically for use with Bose 802 Series II full-range loudspeakers. It provides precise tonal shaping, system protection, and optimized performance for professional sound reinforcement applications. 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. System Configuration 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Active equalization circuit, Input/Output connectors, Level controls, System protection circuitry, Power indicator.

Feature	Description
Active Equalization	Precisely tailors frequency response for Bose 802 Series II speakers
System Protection	Limits low-frequency energy to prevent speaker damage
Input Level Control	Adjusts input sensitivity to match source equipment
Output Level Control	Sets overall system output level
Bypass Switch	Engages/disengages equalization for A/B comparison
Power Connector	For AC power connection
Input Connectors	Balanced XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs
Output Connectors	Balanced XLR outputs to power amplifiers
Ground Lift Switch	Helps eliminate ground loop hum
Power Indicator	LED shows unit is powered on

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place in rack or stable surface.

Connect audio source: Use balanced cables from mixer to controller INPUT.
Connect to amplifiers: Use balanced cables from controller OUTPUT to power amplifier inputs.
Connect speakers: Ensure proper wiring from amplifiers to Bose 802 Series II speakers.
Plug into AC power using supplied power cord.

WARNING! Ensure all equipment is powered off before making connections. Use proper gauge speaker wire.

First-Time Setup

Power on controller; verify power indicator is lit.

Set input level: Adjust INPUT control while feeding signal to prevent clipping.
Set output level: Adjust OUTPUT control to achieve desired system volume.
Engage equalization: Ensure BYPASS switch is in EQ position (not bypassed).
Check ground: Use GROUND LIFT switch if hum is present.

CAUTION! Do not exceed maximum input levels. Start with all controls at minimum.

Specifications

Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.5dB with EQ engaged).
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05% @ 1kHz.
Input Impedance: 20kΩ balanced.
Output Impedance: 100Ω balanced.
Maximum Input Level: +20dBu.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB (A-weighted).
Equalization: Proprietary curve optimized for Bose 802 Series II.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15W.
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, INPUT LEVEL, OUTPUT LEVEL, BYPASS switch, POWER indicator.

Rear Panel: INPUT connectors (XLR & 1/4"), OUTPUT connectors (XLR), GROUND LIFT switch, AC POWER connector.

Input Level: Adjusts sensitivity to match source equipment. Output Level: Controls signal level to power amplifiers. Bypass Switch: Engages (IN) or disengages (OUT) the equalization curve. Ground Lift: Breaks ground connection between input and output to eliminate hum.

Connecting Devices

Audio Source: Mixer outputs to controller INPUT. Amplifier: Controller OUTPUT to amplifier inputs.

Turn off all equipment before connecting.
Use balanced cables for best noise rejection.
Connect INPUT from mixing console or audio source.
Connect OUTPUT to power amplifier inputs.
Ensure proper polarity throughout signal chain.

Tip: Keep audio cables away from power cables to reduce interference.

System Configuration

Optimized for use with Bose 802 Series II speakers and compatible power amplifiers.

Speaker placement: Follow Bose recommendations for optimal coverage.
Amplifier matching: Use amplifier with adequate power (typically 200-400W per channel at 8Ω).
System tuning: Use controller EQ as primary tonal adjustment.
Level setting: Set controller output to drive amplifier to appropriate level.
System check: Verify all connections and test at low volume first.

WARNING! Do not use with non-Bose 802 Series II speakers. Ensure amplifier gain structure is properly set.

Protection Features

Low-Frequency Protection: Built-in filter limits excessive bass that could damage speakers. Clip Prevention: Optimal gain staging helps prevent amplifier clipping. Thermal Protection: Circuitry protects against overheating.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use dry cloth only; avoid liquids. Keep vents clear for proper ventilation.

CAUTION! Do not block ventilation openings. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with interference limits for commercial use. Copyright © Bose Corporation; all rights reserved. For technical support, contact Bose Professional Products Division or visit www.bose.com/professional. Made for use with Bose 802 Series II loudspeakers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output signal	Power/Bypass switch	Ensure unit is powered on; check BYPASS switch position; verify connections.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop	Engage GROUND LIFT switch; check cable integrity; ensure proper grounding.
Distorted sound	Input clipping	Reduce INPUT level; check source signal for clipping.
Insufficient bass	Bypass engaged	Ensure BYPASS switch is in EQ position (equalization engaged).
No power	Power connection	Check AC power cord connection; verify outlet is working.

Reset: Power cycle unit if abnormal operation occurs.

Service: Contact Bose Professional Support or authorized service center.