Bose 802C System Controller User Manual

The Bose 802C System Controller is a dedicated equalizer and control unit designed to optimize the performance of Bose 802 Series III loudspeakers. It provides precise tonal shaping, system protection, and integration capabilities for professional sound reinforcement applications. Below are key sections covering features, installation, setup, 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 Optimization 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Front panel controls, rear panel connectors, equalization circuits, system protection features.

Feature	Description
Equalization Controls	Precise EQ for room acoustics and speaker response
Input/Output Connectors	Balanced XLR and 1/4" TRS jacks
System Protection	Limiter circuits to prevent speaker damage
Bypass Switch	Engages/disengages EQ processing
Level Controls	Input and output level adjustments
Power Indicator	LED shows unit status
Rack Mountable	Standard 19-inch rack design
Ground Lift Switch	Reduces hum and ground loops
High-Pass Filter	Protects speakers from low-frequency damage
EQ Curves	Preset for Bose 802 Series III speakers

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Mount in standard 19-inch rack.

Rack mounting: Use provided screws to secure unit in rack.
Connect audio sources: Use balanced cables to INPUT connectors.
Connect to amplifiers: Use OUTPUT connectors to power amplifier inputs.
Connect to Bose 802 speakers: Ensure proper speaker wiring.
Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block cooling vents. Use appropriate rack space.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; configure initial settings.

Set input level: Adjust INPUT control for proper signal level.
Set output level: Adjust OUTPUT control for amplifier input.
Engage EQ: Set BYPASS switch to ON position.
Adjust EQ settings: Start with flat settings; adjust per room acoustics.
Set ground lift: Use GROUND LIFT switch if hum is present.

CAUTION! Ensure all equipment is powered off before making connections.

Specifications

Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz ±1dB.
Input Impedance: 20k ohms balanced.
Output Impedance: 200 ohms balanced.
Maximum Input Level: +20dBu.
Maximum Output Level: +20dBu.
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.01% @ 1kHz.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90dB.
EQ Bands: Multiple fixed and adjustable bands.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15W.
Dimensions: 19" x 1.75" x 8" (rack units).
Weight: 5 lbs (2.3 kg).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, INPUT LEVEL, OUTPUT LEVEL, BYPASS switch, EQ controls.

Rear Panel: INPUT connectors (XLR/TRS), OUTPUT connectors (XLR/TRS), GROUND LIFT switch, AC power inlet.

EQ Controls: Adjust for room acoustics and speaker response. Level Controls: Set optimal signal levels. Bypass: Compare processed vs. unprocessed signal. Ground Lift: Eliminate ground loop hum.

Connecting Devices

Input Sources: Mixer outputs, preamplifiers. Output Destinations: Power amplifiers.

Turn off all equipment before connecting.
Use balanced cables for best noise rejection.
Connect INPUT to source output.
Connect OUTPUT to amplifier input.
Ensure proper polarity (pin 2 hot standard).

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

System Optimization

Optimize for room acoustics and speaker placement.

Set initial levels: Adjust INPUT and OUTPUT for unity gain.
Engage EQ: Start with BYPASS off.
Play reference material: Use familiar audio content.
Adjust EQ: Compensate for room modes and speaker characteristics.
Set limiter: Adjust for system protection without affecting sound quality.
Test system: Verify performance at various levels.

WARNING! Avoid excessive EQ boosts which can cause distortion and system damage.

Protection Features

Limiter Circuit: Prevents amplifier clipping and speaker damage. High-Pass Filter: Protects speakers from excessive low frequencies. Thermal Protection: Prevents overheating.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use dry cloth only; no liquids or aerosols.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids; keep away from moisture. Ensure proper ventilation during operation.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No audio output	Power/Bypass setting	Check power connection; verify BYPASS switch position.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop	Engage GROUND LIFT switch; check cable connections.
Distorted audio	Input level too high	Reduce INPUT level; check source signal.
Limited output	Limiter engaged	Reduce input level; check amplifier settings.
EQ not affecting sound	Bypass engaged	Disengage BYPASS switch.

Reset: Power cycle unit if needed.

Service: Contact Bose Professional support; www.bose.com