Bose 901 Series 6 Manual

The Bose 901 Series VI is a legendary direct/reflecting loudspeaker system designed to deliver a lifelike, spacious soundstage. It features nine full-range drivers per enclosure (one facing forward, eight facing rearward), an active electronic equalizer, and is renowned for its room-filling, three-dimensional audio reproduction. This manual covers safety, setup, equalizer operation, placement guidelines, specifications, and troubleshooting for optimal performance.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two 901 Series VI loudspeaker enclosures, Active Equalizer unit, AC power adapter, Speaker cables, Owner's manual.

Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully unpack both speakers and the active equalizer. Inspect for shipping damage.

1. Remove protective packaging from speakers and equalizer.
2. Check for physical damage to cabinets, drivers (behind grille), and equalizer case.
3. Verify contents: Two speakers, one equalizer, AC adapter, speaker cables, manual.
4. Place speakers on stable, level surfaces away from initial power connection.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy. Use proper lifting technique or two people to avoid injury. Do not lift by the grille or rear ports.

System Setup & Connection

The Active Equalizer MUST be connected for the system to operate correctly and safely.

1. Power Off: Turn off and unplug your amplifier/receiver.
2. Connect Equalizer to Amplifier:
   • Method A (Tape Monitor): Connect equalizer INPUT to receiver TAPE OUT. Connect equalizer OUTPUT to receiver TAPE IN. Set receiver to TAPE MONITOR mode.
   • Method B (Preamp/Main Loop): Disconnect preamp out/main in jumpers on receiver. Connect receiver PRE OUT to equalizer INPUT. Connect equalizer OUTPUT to receiver MAIN IN.
3. Connect Speakers: Using provided or high-quality speaker wire, connect amplifier speaker outputs to the equalizer's SPEAKER INPUT terminals. Then connect equalizer SPEAKER OUTPUT terminals to the left and right Bose 901 speakers. Observe polarity (+/-).
4. Power Equalizer: Plug the AC adapter into the equalizer and a wall outlet (120V AC).
5. Power On: Turn on your amplifier/receiver. The equalizer's power light should illuminate.

CAUTION! Never connect the 901 speakers directly to an amplifier without the active equalizer in the circuit. This can cause speaker damage and poor sound.

Specifications

• Model: Bose 901 Series VI Direct/Reflecting Speaker System.
• Drivers: 9 x 4.5" full-range per enclosure.
• Crossover: Electronic, via active equalizer.
• Recommended Amplifier Power: 10-450 watts per channel.
• Impedance: 8 ohms (nominal, with equalizer).
• Frequency Response: 35 Hz - 16 kHz (±3 dB with equalization).
• Sensitivity: Not applicable; system gain set by equalizer.
• Dimensions (H x W x D): Approx. 24" x 14" x 12" (610 x 356 x 305 mm).
• Weight (each speaker): Approx. 45 lbs (20.4 kg).
• Equalizer Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, via supplied adapter.

Active Equalizer Controls

The equalizer tailors the frequency response for flat overall output and provides system protection.

Front Panel: POWER indicator, MODE switch (ANALYZE / EQUALIZE), BASS CONTOUR, MIDRANGE, TREBLE, LOUDNESS CONTOUR controls.

Rear Panel: AC input, SPEAKER INPUT/OUTPUT terminals, INPUT/OUTPUT jacks for tape loop or preamp connection.

Control Functions:

• MODE Switch: ANALYZE for calibration with test record; EQUALIZE for normal listening.
• Bass/Mid/Treble: Adjust to taste after initial calibration. Start at center (12 o'clock) position.
• Loudness Contour: Compensates for low-volume listening (Fletcher-Munson curve).

Speaker Placement Guide

Optimal placement is critical for the direct/reflecting design to create its signature soundstage.

1. Room Position: Place speakers along the longer wall of the room, if possible.
2. Distance from Walls: Position speakers 12-24 inches from the rear wall and 18-36 inches from side walls.
3. Orientation: The single forward-facing driver should point towards the listening position. The eight rear drivers face the wall behind the speaker.
4. Toe-In: Angle speakers slightly inward so the front driver axes cross just in front of the primary listening seat.
5. Height: Use the optional Bose 901 floor stands or place on sturdy shelves at ear level when seated.
6. Symmetry: Ensure left and right speakers are placed symmetrically relative to room boundaries.

Tip: Experiment with placement. Small changes can significantly affect imaging and bass response.

Equalizer Calibration

For precise setup, calibrate using the Bose test record (sold separately) and a sound level meter.

1. Set equalizer MODE switch to ANALYZE.
2. Place sound level meter at primary listening position, pointed upward.
3. Play the pink noise track from the Bose test record.
4. Adjust your amplifier's volume so the meter reads 70-75 dB SPL (C-weighting, slow).
5. Switch the equalizer MODE between ANALYZE and EQUALIZE. The sound level should remain constant. If it changes significantly, contact Bose support.
6. Return MODE switch to EQUALIZE for normal listening.

Note: Calibration ensures the system produces a flat response in your room. Without the test record, use the tone controls to adjust to your preference.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the equalizer from AC power before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth to dust speakers and equalizer.

• Grilles: Remove by pulling gently from the bottom. Vacuum with brush attachment or dust lightly. Do not wash.
• Cabinet: Wipe with a slightly damp cloth for stubborn marks. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Drivers: Do not touch or attempt to clean the driver cones. Keep grilles on to protect them.

CAUTION! Keep speakers away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Do not place objects on top of the speakers.

Regulatory & Warranty

This product complies with applicable FCC regulations for Class B digital devices. Copyright and trademarks are property of Bose Corporation. The Bose Limited Warranty is included in the packaging. For warranty service or technical support, contact Bose Corporation.

Bose Contact Information:
Customer Service: 1-800-999-2673
Website: www.bose.com
Address: Bose Corporation, The Mountain, Framingham, MA 01701, USA

Troubleshooting

Reset: Power cycle entire system: Turn off and unplug amplifier and equalizer. Reconnect and power on.

Service: Do not open speakers or equalizer. All service must be performed by Bose authorized technicians. Contact Bose Customer Service for support.