Bose Free Space 51 Manual

The Bose Free Space 51 is an in-ground outdoor loudspeaker designed for high-quality audio performance in outdoor environments. It features weather-resistant construction, a full-range driver, and is engineered to blend seamlessly into landscaping. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Weather-resistant enclosure, Full-range driver, Integrated mounting system, Speaker wire terminals.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal location following placement guidelines.

1. Prepare the site: Dig a hole approximately 10 inches in diameter and 8 inches deep.
2. Run speaker wire: Bury 16-gauge or thicker outdoor-rated speaker wire from amplifier location to speaker hole.
3. Place the speaker: Insert the Free Space 51 into the hole, ensuring it sits level and stable.
4. Connect wires: Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from wire ends and connect to speaker terminals (observe polarity).
5. Backfill and secure: Fill around speaker with soil or mulch, leaving the top grille exposed.

WARNING! Ensure all amplifier power is off before making connections. Do not install near pools or hot tubs without proper electrical safety measures.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure your audio system for optimal performance.

1. Amplifier connection: Connect speaker wires to amplifier terminals, matching polarity (+ to +, – to –).
2. Power on: Turn on amplifier at low volume.
3. Test audio: Play a familiar audio source to verify sound from the speaker.
4. Adjust amplifier settings: Set crossover (if available) to 80 Hz or higher for best performance.
5. Fine-tune placement: Adjust backfill if necessary to ensure speaker is stable and level.

CAUTION! Do not overpower the speaker. Ensure amplifier output matches speaker power handling specifications.

Specifications

• Type: In-ground, outdoor full-range loudspeaker.
• Driver: 4.5-inch full-range.
• Frequency Response: 55 Hz – 16 kHz (±3 dB).
• Impedance: 4–8 ohms.
• Power Handling: 10–100 watts RMS.
• Sensitivity: 84 dB SPL (1 watt/1 meter).
• Dimensions: 10.5" diameter x 8.5" height (above ground).
• Weight: 4.4 lbs (2 kg).
• Enclosure Material: Weather-resistant polymer.
• Finish: Rock-like gray.
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 150°F (-40°C to 65°C).

Controls and Connections

The Free Space 51 has no onboard controls. All audio control is managed through the connected amplifier or receiver.

Terminals: Two heavy-duty binding posts (red = positive/+ , black = negative/–). Accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (single only).

Amplifier Requirements: Stereo or multichannel amplifier/receiver with 10–100 watts per channel into 4–8 ohms. Ensure amplifier is rated for outdoor use or installed in a protected location.

Connecting to an Amplifier

Proper connection ensures optimal sound quality and protects equipment.

1. Turn off and unplug the amplifier.
2. Run two-conductor speaker wire from amplifier location to each speaker location.
3. At the speaker, connect the wire to the terminals: positive (+) wire to red terminal, negative (–) wire to black terminal.
4. At the amplifier, connect the wires to the corresponding speaker output terminals, observing polarity.
5. Secure all connections and ensure no bare wire is exposed.

Tip: Use outdoor-rated, UV-resistant speaker wire (16-gauge minimum for runs up to 50 feet; 14-gauge for longer runs).

Audio Performance & Adjustment

Designed for natural, wide-dispersion sound in outdoor settings.

1. Volume: Adjust using amplifier or source device volume control.
2. Tone: Use amplifier bass/treble controls to compensate for outdoor acoustics if needed.
3. Balance: Adjust amplifier balance control to match levels between multiple speakers.
4. Crossover: If using with a subwoofer, set amplifier crossover to 80–100 Hz for seamless integration.
5. Impedance matching: When connecting multiple speakers, ensure total impedance load is within amplifier specifications.

WARNING! Do not exceed 100 watts RMS input power. Excessive volume can cause permanent speaker damage.

Placement Guidelines

Optimal placement enhances sound quality and system longevity.

• Position speakers at least 10 feet apart for stereo imaging.
• Place away from reflective surfaces (solid walls, large windows) to reduce harsh reflections.
• Install in well-drained soil to prevent water accumulation.
• Keep at least 2 feet from structures or plants that could obstruct sound.
• For background music, place speakers 15–30 feet from primary listening area.
• Consider burying wire at least 6 inches deep to protect from lawn equipment.

Care & Maintenance

Designed for minimal maintenance in outdoor conditions.

Regular cleaning: Use soft brush or cloth to remove dirt, leaves, or debris from grille. For stubborn dirt, use mild soap and water solution; rinse thoroughly. Do not use high-pressure water spray.

Seasonal check: Inspect wire connections annually for corrosion or damage. Ensure speaker remains level and stable in ground.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals. Never submerge the speaker in water.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Reset: Power cycle amplifier by turning off, unplugging for 60 seconds, then reconnecting.

Service: 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com