The Bose Freespace 51 is a high-performance, weather-resistant outdoor speaker system designed for permanent installation. It delivers wide, even coverage of music and speech for patios, decks, gardens, and other outdoor living spaces. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Weather-resistant composite enclosure, Articulated Array® speaker design, integrated mounting bracket, and gold-plated binding posts.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Articulated Array® design | Provides wide, even sound coverage for consistent listening outdoors |
| Weather-resistant construction | UV-resistant and rustproof materials for long-term outdoor use |
| Integrated mounting bracket | Allows for easy aiming and secure installation on walls, eaves, or posts |
| Gold-plated binding posts | Ensure reliable, corrosion-resistant connection to speaker wire |
| Power handling | Handles up to 100 watts of continuous power |
| Impedance | 4-8 ohms compatible with most home audio amplifiers |
| Frequency response | Delivers full-range sound with clear highs and articulate bass |
Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable location protected from direct, heavy water exposure (e.g., under an eave).
WARNING! Ensure mounting surface can support the speaker's weight. All electrical connections must be made with the amplifier powered OFF.
After installation, configure your audio system.
CAUTION! Do not overpower the speakers. Exceeding 100 watts continuous power may cause damage.
The speaker itself has no user controls. All audio control is performed at the connected amplifier or source device.
Connections: Gold-plated, 5-way binding posts for secure speaker wire connection. Accepts bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (single only).
Amplifier Requirements: Stereo or multi-channel amplifier/receiver capable of driving a 4-8 ohm load. Ensure total impedance of all connected speakers is within amplifier specifications.
For stereo or multi-zone audio systems.
Tip: Use a wire gauge appropriate for the run length (16-gauge for runs up to 50 ft, 14-gauge for longer runs).
Once installed and connected, operation is seamless.
WARNING! Avoid driving the amplifier into distortion (clipping), as this is a primary cause of speaker damage.
Designed for outdoor use but benefits from some protection.
Cleaning: Wipe exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or high-pressure water.
Winter Care: While weather-resistant, prolonged exposure to direct, driving rain or snow accumulation is not recommended. If possible, cover or relocate speakers in extreme winter conditions.
CAUTION! Do not submerge speakers. Ensure wire connections are protected from direct water exposure.
Complies with applicable product safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards. This product is intended for residential outdoor audio applications. Bose and the Bose medallion symbol are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from speaker | Amplifier off/incorrect source | Ensure amplifier is on and correct input source is selected. Check volume. |
| Intermittent or distorted sound | Loose or corroded connections | Power off amplifier. Check wire connections at both speaker and amplifier. Clean if corroded. |
| Sound from only one speaker | Wire fault or amplifier setting | Swap speaker wires at amplifier to test if problem follows the wire/speaker. Check amplifier balance settings. |
| Weak bass or thin sound | Speaker placement | Ensure speaker is mounted on a solid surface (wall, eave) to reinforce bass. Adjust aiming. |
| Amplifier shuts down or overheats | Impedance mismatch or short circuit | Verify total speaker impedance is within amplifier's specified range. Check for bare wires touching. |
Service: For product service, contact Bose Customer Service or an authorized Bose dealer. Do not attempt to open or repair the speaker enclosure.