bose 802 series iii manual

The Bose 802 Series III is a professional full-range loudspeaker system designed for a wide variety of sound reinforcement applications. It features eight 4.5-inch full-range drivers arranged in a unique configuration for wide, even coverage, a built-in passive crossover, and is designed for use with the Bose 802C or 802SC Controller for proper equalization and system protection. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Eight 4.5-inch full-range drivers, built-in passive crossover network, rugged ABS enclosure with steel grille, integrated stand mount socket, and Neutrik Speakon NL4MP connector.

Feature	Description
Driver Array	Eight 4.5-inch full-range drivers for wide dispersion
Crossover	Built-in passive network (requires external controller)
Enclosure	Rugged, molded ABS with integral handles
Connector	Neutrik Speakon NL4MP (4-pole)
Mounting	Integrated 35mm stand socket; multiple fly points
Grille	Powder-coated steel with foam backing
Coverage Pattern	120° H x 100° V nominal
Application	Main PA, stage monitor, distributed sound
Controller Required	Bose 802C or 802SC for proper equalization
Power Handling	See Specifications (with controller)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure you have the required Bose 802C/SC Controller and appropriate amplifier.

1. Positioning: Place on speaker stand, mount on wall, or fly in array. Ensure stable, secure placement.
2. Connecting Controller: Connect amplifier output to INPUT of Bose 802C/SC Controller.
3. Connecting Speaker: Connect CONTROLLER OUTPUT of 802C/SC to the 802 Series III speaker using approved speaker cable with Speakon connectors.
4. Powering Up: Turn on amplifier last, after all connections are secure.

WARNING! Speaker is heavy; use proper lifting technique or two people. Ensure all mounting hardware is rated for the speaker's weight.

First-Time Setup

Proper setup requires the Bose 802C or 802SC Controller between your amplifier and the 802 Series III speaker.

1. System Connection: Amplifier -> 802C/SC Controller -> 802 Series III Speaker(s).
2. Controller Settings: Set the 802C/SC switch to match your application (e.g., MAIN, MONITOR, DELAY).
3. Amplifier Gain: Start with amplifier gain controls at minimum. Power up system in order: Source -> Processor -> Amplifier.
4. Initial Test: Play audio at low level to verify all speakers are working.
5. System Tuning: Use controller's EQ adjustments if necessary for room acoustics.

CAUTION! Never connect the 802 Series III directly to a power amplifier without the designated controller. This can cause speaker damage and improper sound.

Specifications

• Type: Full-range professional loudspeaker system.
• Drivers: Eight 4.5-inch (114 mm) full-range.
• Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms (when used with 802C/SC Controller).
• Power Handling (Continuous/Program): 240W / 480W (with 802C Controller).
• Maximum SPL (Peak): 121 dB.
• Frequency Response: 70 Hz - 16 kHz (±3 dB with controller).
• Dispersion: 120° H x 100° V nominal.
• Connector: Neutrik Speakon NL4MP (4-pole).
• Enclosure: Molded ABS, textured black finish.
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 15.25" x 23.5" x 11.75" (387 mm x 597 mm x 298 mm).
• Weight: 29 lbs (13.2 kg).

Controls and Connections

The speaker itself has no user controls. All system control is via the external Bose 802C or 802SC Controller and the connected amplifier.

802 Series III Speaker Rear Panel: Neutrik Speakon NL4MP input connector (pins 1+/1- for full range).

Bose 802C/SC Controller Front/Rear: INPUT (from amplifier), OUTPUT (to speakers), APPLICATION switch (MAIN, MONITOR, DELAY, etc.), EQ trim controls (if equipped).

Amplifier: Gain/level controls, power switch. Always match amplifier power to speaker system's rated handling capacity.

Connecting to Amplifiers & Controllers

Correct connection chain is critical: Power Amplifier -> Bose 802C/SC Controller -> Bose 802 Series III Speaker(s).

1. Turn off and unplug all system components.
2. Connect amplifier output to INPUT terminals on 802C/SC controller using speaker cable.
3. Connect CONTROLLER OUTPUT terminals to the 802 Series III Speakon connector. Use 4-pole Speakon cable (pins 1+/1-).
4. For multiple speakers, connect in parallel from the controller output, ensuring total impedance stays within amplifier's specification.
5. Power up sequence: Sources -> Signal Processors -> 802 Controller -> Power Amplifier.

Tip: Use high-quality, appropriately gauged speaker cable. Keep cable runs as short as practical.

Operation Guidelines

Designed for continuous professional use.

1. Power Sequencing: Always power up the system in the correct order (source to amplifier last). Power down in reverse order.
2. Gain Structure: Set amplifier gain to provide adequate headroom. Avoid driving the amplifier into clipping (indicated by clipping LED).
3. Application Setting: Set the switch on the 802C/SC controller to match the speaker's use (Main PA, Monitor, Delay).
4. Monitoring: Listen for distortion or limiting, which may indicate overdriving. Reduce amplifier gain if necessary.
5. Thermal Management: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not cover speaker ports or operate in enclosed spaces without airflow.

WARNING! Do not exceed the maximum recommended amplifier power. Clipping an amplifier can send harmful high-frequency energy to the speakers, causing failure.

System Configuration

Multiple 802 Series III speakers can be used together. The Bose 802C Controller can drive multiple speakers connected in parallel.

Impedance Calculation: When connecting multiple 8-ohm speakers in parallel, use formula: Total Impedance = 8 ohms / Number of Speakers. Ensure the total load is within your amplifier's specified range (typically not below 2 ohms).

Arraying: For wider coverage, speakers can be placed side-by-side. For vertical coverage, they can be stacked or flown using approved hardware.

With Subwoofers: For extended low-frequency response, use with a compatible Bose subwoofer system (e.g., Bose 502B). Use an electronic crossover to send appropriate frequencies to each component.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug speaker from amplifier before cleaning or servicing. Exterior: Wipe with a dry, soft cloth. For stubborn marks, use a cloth dampened with water or mild soap solution. Do not let moisture enter ports or connector.

Grille: Do not remove. Clean with soft brush or vacuum with soft brush attachment.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents, abrasives, or harsh chemicals. Do not spray liquids directly onto the speaker. Store in a dry, temperate environment.

Regulatory Information

Complies with applicable safety and EMC regulations. This product is intended for professional use. Copyright and trademarks are property of Bose Corporation. For technical specifications, support, and authorized service, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Professional Division.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speaker	Power/connections	Check amplifier and controller power. Verify all cable connections are secure. Ensure correct power-up sequence was followed.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce amplifier gain/level. Check for amplifier clipping. Ensure source signal is not distorted.
Intermittent sound	Faulty cable/connection	Inspect and reseat all cables, especially Speakon connectors. Try a different cable.
Low output level	Gain structure/controller setting	Check amplifier gain settings. Verify 802C/SC controller APPLICATION switch is set correctly (e.g., MAIN, not DELAY).
No low frequencies	Controller bypassed or incorrect	Speaker MUST be used with Bose 802C or 802SC Controller. Verify controller is connected correctly in the signal chain.
One or more drivers not working	Internal fault	Contact Bose Professional Technical Support or an authorized service center. Do not attempt to repair drivers yourself.

Reset: Power entire system down completely and restart in correct sequence.

Service: For technical support or service, contact Bose Professional: www.bose.com/professional or refer to your regional Bose contact.