Bose AWR1B1 Manual

The Bose AWR1B1 is a premium weather-resistant outdoor speaker system designed for high-fidelity audio in outdoor environments. It features Bose's proprietary acoustic waveguide technology, durable construction for all-weather use, easy mounting options, and compatibility with various audio sources. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Weather-resistant speaker enclosures, Acoustic Waveguide speaker technology, mounting brackets, speaker wire, and connection terminals.

Feature	Description
Acoustic Waveguide Technology	Delivers full, natural sound with enhanced bass response
Weather-Resistant Construction	Designed to withstand rain, snow, humidity, and temperature extremes
Durable Grille and Enclosure	Metal grille and UV-resistant materials for long-term outdoor use
Easy Mounting System	Includes brackets for wall, ceiling, or horizontal surface mounting
Speaker Wire Terminals	High-quality, corrosion-resistant binding posts for secure connections
Impedance	Compatible with most amplifiers and receivers (typically 4-8 ohms)
Frequency Response	Wide frequency range for clear highs and deep lows
Power Handling	Handles high power input for loud, distortion-free audio

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose optimal location for sound coverage and weather protection.

1. Select mounting location: Ensure surface is stable and can support speaker weight.
2. Attach mounting brackets: Use provided hardware to secure brackets to surface.
3. Mount speakers: Secure speakers to brackets, ensuring they are level and firmly attached.
4. Run speaker wire: Use weather-rated speaker wire, keeping connections protected from elements.
5. Connect to amplifier: Match positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both speaker and amplifier.

WARNING! Ensure all electrical connections are made with amplifier powered off. Use proper ladder safety when installing at height.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure your audio system for optimal performance.

1. Power on amplifier: Ensure amplifier is compatible with speaker impedance and power handling.
2. Test connections: Play audio at low volume to verify proper left/right channel operation.
3. Adjust amplifier settings: Set crossover, tone controls, and volume levels appropriately for outdoor use.
4. Position speakers: Angle speakers toward listening area for best sound dispersion.
5. Weatherproof connections: Use silicone sealant or weatherproof covers on wire connections if exposed.

CAUTION! Do not exceed maximum power rating of speakers. Ensure amplifier is properly ventilated.

Specifications

• Speaker Type: 2-way weather-resistant outdoor speaker
• Driver Components: High-excursion woofer, pivoting tweeter
• Impedance: 4-8 ohms (compatible with most amplifiers)
• Power Handling: 10-100 watts RMS per channel
• Frequency Response: 55Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
• Sensitivity: 88dB SPL (1 watt/1 meter)
• Enclosure Material: UV-resistant polymer with aluminum grille
• Dimensions: Approximately 10.5" H x 7.5" W x 8.5" D
• Weight: Approximately 8.5 lbs per speaker
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 150°F (-40°C to 65°C)
• Warranty: Limited 5-year warranty

Controls and Connections

Speakers feature binding post terminals for secure wire connections. No onboard controls - all audio adjustments made at amplifier.

Terminal Connections: Dual binding posts accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (where permitted). Red terminal = positive (+), Black terminal = negative (-).

Mounting Adjustments: Brackets allow for tilt and swivel adjustments to direct sound where needed.

Compatibility: Works with most stereo amplifiers, AV receivers, and multi-zone audio systems.

Connecting Audio Sources

Connect speakers to your audio system using proper gauge speaker wire for the distance.

1. Turn off amplifier before making connections.
2. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from speaker wire ends.
3. Connect positive wire to red terminal on both speaker and amplifier.
4. Connect negative wire to black terminal on both speaker and amplifier.
5. For bi-wiring (if supported): Remove jumper bars and connect separate wires to woofer and tweeter terminals.
6. Secure connections tightly to prevent corrosion and signal loss.

Tip: Use 16-gauge wire for runs up to 50 feet, 14-gauge for 50-100 feet, and 12-gauge for longer runs.

Operation and Audio Adjustment

Optimize sound quality for your outdoor space through proper amplifier settings.

1. Balance: Adjust left/right balance on amplifier to account for speaker placement.
2. Tone controls: Slightly increase bass for open outdoor environments; adjust treble for clarity.
3. Volume: Outdoor spaces typically require higher volume levels than indoors.
4. Crossover settings: If using with subwoofer, set appropriate crossover frequency (typically 80-100Hz).
5. Multi-zone systems: Configure separate volume controls for indoor/outdoor zones if available.

Note: Sound perception changes outdoors - less bass reinforcement, more high-frequency dispersion.

Mounting and Placement

Proper placement is critical for optimal sound quality and coverage.

1. Height: Mount 8-10 feet above ground for best sound dispersion.
2. Spacing: Place speakers 10-20 feet apart for stereo imaging.
3. Angling: Point speakers downward toward listening area at approximately 15-30 degree angle.
4. Obstructions: Keep speakers clear of walls, fences, or large objects that could block sound.
5. Multiple pairs: For larger areas, consider additional speaker pairs with proper impedance matching.

WARNING! Ensure mounting surface can support at least three times the speaker weight. Use appropriate anchors for wall type.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long-term performance and appearance.

1. Cleaning: Wipe exterior with damp cloth; mild soap solution for stubborn dirt. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
2. Grille cleaning: Remove grille periodically to clean dust and debris from driver surfaces.
3. Connection check: Inspect wire connections annually for corrosion; clean with contact cleaner if needed.
4. Winter care: Speakers are weather-resistant but consider covering during extreme winter conditions.
5. Inspection: Check mounting hardware annually for tightness and corrosion.

CAUTION! Never use high-pressure water spray. Do not open speaker enclosure - no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For technical support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speaker	Amplifier off/connections	Check amplifier power; verify wire connections at both ends; ensure proper +/- polarity.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume on amplifier; check amplifier power rating compatibility.
One speaker not working	Wire/connection issue	Swap speaker wires at amplifier to determine if issue is with speaker or channel.
Intermittent sound	Loose/corroded connections	Check and tighten all connections; clean terminals if corroded.
Reduced bass response	Placement/environment	Reposition speakers closer to walls or corners for bass reinforcement; adjust amplifier tone controls.
Hum or buzz	Ground loop/interference	Ensure proper grounding of amplifier; separate audio cables from power cables.

Reset: Check amplifier settings and reset to factory defaults if experiencing issues.

Service: For product service, contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673 or visit www.bose.com/support.