Bose Lifestyle 901 Manual

The Bose Lifestyle 901 is a premium high-fidelity speaker system featuring Direct/Reflecting speaker technology, active equalization, and a dedicated control unit. Designed for exceptional audio performance, it includes nine full-range drivers per speaker cabinet, an active equalizer for precise sound calibration, and compatibility with various audio sources. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Audio Sources 7. Equalizer Calibration 8. Advanced Audio Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two Direct/Reflecting speaker cabinets, Active Equalizer control unit, Power supply, Speaker cables, Remote control.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Technology	Nine drivers per cabinet (one direct, eight reflecting) for spacious sound
Active Equalizer	Precise frequency response calibration for optimal performance
Speaker Cabinets	Walnut or black oak finish, designed for placement against walls
Control Unit	Input selection, volume control, equalizer bypass
Power Requirements	120V AC, 60Hz (US model)
Input Connections	RCA line-level inputs for various audio sources
Remote Control	Infrared remote for system control
Driver Configuration	Nine 4.5-inch full-range drivers per cabinet
Frequency Response	35Hz - 20kHz with equalizer engaged
Impedance	4-8 ohms (compatible with most amplifiers)

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose optimal speaker placement.

Position speakers: Place against walls as designed, at ear level when seated.
Connect speakers: Use provided cables to connect speakers to equalizer outputs.
Connect audio sources: Use RCA cables from source components to equalizer inputs.
Connect amplifier: Route equalizer output to amplifier input.
Plug in power: Connect equalizer to AC power outlet.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow calibration procedure.

Initial power: Turn on amplifier and equalizer unit.
Source selection: Use INPUT selector on equalizer or remote.
Volume adjustment: Set initial volume to minimum, then gradually increase.
Equalizer calibration: Engage equalizer for proper frequency response.
Balance check: Ensure sound is evenly distributed between speakers.

CAUTION! Do not place speakers in corners or too close to side walls. Maintain proper ventilation for amplifier.

Specifications

Speaker Type: Direct/Reflecting bookshelf system.
Drivers per Cabinet: Nine 4.5-inch full-range drivers.
Frequency Response: 35Hz - 20kHz (with equalizer).
Impedance: 4-8 ohms nominal.
Power Handling: 10-150 watts per channel recommended.
Dimensions (each cabinet): Approximately 24" H × 14" W × 10" D.
Weight (each cabinet): Approximately 35 lbs.
Finish Options: Walnut veneer or black oak.
Equalizer: Active, 9-band compensation.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.

Controls and Settings

Control via equalizer front panel or infrared remote. Equalizer Controls: POWER, INPUT SELECTOR, VOLUME, EQUALIZER ON/OFF, BYPASS.

Remote: POWER, INPUT SELECTION, VOLUME UP/DOWN, MUTE, EQUALIZER TOGGLE.

Audio Settings: Input level adjustment, equalizer calibration, balance control. System Settings: Source naming, preset configurations. Equalizer Functions: Room compensation, frequency response optimization, bypass for direct comparison.

Connecting Audio Sources

Supports multiple audio sources: CD player, turntable (with phono preamp), tape deck, tuner.

Turn off all components before connecting.
Use quality RCA cables for all connections.
Connect source outputs to equalizer inputs (labeled CD, TUNER, AUX, etc.).
Connect equalizer output to amplifier input.
Select appropriate input on equalizer control unit.

Tip: Keep audio cables away from power cords to minimize interference.

Equalizer Calibration

The active equalizer is essential for proper system performance.

Engage equalizer: Press EQUALIZER ON button.
Play reference music: Use familiar, well-recorded material.
Adjust listening position: Sit in primary listening location.
Evaluate sound: Listen for balanced frequency response.
Bypass comparison: Use BYPASS button to compare equalized/unequalized sound.
Fine-tune: Adjust source levels if necessary for balanced inputs.

WARNING! Do not attempt to modify equalizer settings internally. Use only as designed.

Advanced Audio Features

Direct/Reflecting Technology: Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious imaging. Active Equalization: Compensates for speaker placement and room acoustics. Multi-room Potential: Can be integrated into multi-room audio systems with proper switching.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for cabinets. Avoid liquid cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not place liquids on or near speakers. Protect from excessive moisture and direct sunlight.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. UL listed for safety. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and Lifestyle are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speakers	Power/connections	Check power to all components; verify cable connections; ensure proper input selection.
Uneven sound between speakers	Balance/placement	Check amplifier balance control; verify speaker placement symmetry.
Distorted sound	Overdriven inputs	Reduce source volume; check for clipping at amplifier.
Equalizer not affecting sound	Bypass engaged	Ensure equalizer is engaged (not in bypass mode).
Hum or buzz	Grounding issues	Check ground connections; separate audio and power cables.

Reset: Power cycle all components if issues persist.

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