Bose Outdoor Speakers 251 Manual

The Bose 251 Environmental Speakers are designed for outdoor use, featuring weather-resistant construction, Articulated Array® speaker design for wide sound dispersion, and high-quality audio performance. Suitable for patios, decks, pool areas, and other outdoor spaces. 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 Connections 6. Connecting to Audio Sources 7. Operation and Sound Adjustment 8. Weather Resistance & Care 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Weather-resistant enclosure, Articulated Array® speaker design, mounting bracket, speaker wire terminals.

FeatureDescription
Weather ResistanceDesigned to withstand rain, snow, salt spray, and UV exposure
Articulated Array® DesignDual angled drivers for wide, even sound dispersion
Mounting BracketAdjustable for optimal positioning (vertical/horizontal)
Speaker Wire TerminalsHeavy-duty binding posts for secure connection
Power HandlingHandles up to 100 watts per channel
Frequency Response55Hz - 20kHz (±3dB)
Impedance4-8 ohms compatible
DimensionsApprox. 10.5" H x 6.5" W x 6.5" D (per speaker)
WeightApprox. 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) per speaker
ColorWhite or black weather-resistant finish

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable outdoor location.

  1. Select mounting location: Choose solid surface (wall, post, eaves) away from direct water exposure.
  2. Mount bracket: Use provided screws; ensure bracket is level and secure.
  3. Attach speaker: Slide speaker onto bracket; tighten locking knob.
  4. Connect speaker wire: Use 16-gauge or thicker outdoor-rated speaker wire.
  5. Connect to amplifier: Ensure amplifier is off; match polarity (+/-).

WARNING! Ensure mounting surface can support speaker weight. Use appropriate fasteners for surface material.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure with your audio system.

  1. Position speakers: Angle speakers toward listening area using adjustable bracket.
  2. Connect to amplifier/receiver: Use speaker wire to connect to amplifier's speaker outputs.
  3. Set amplifier power: Ensure amplifier matches speaker power handling (up to 100W per channel).
  4. Test sound: Play audio at low volume; check both speakers for proper operation.
  5. Adjust balance: Use amplifier controls to balance left/right channels.

CAUTION! Do not exceed recommended power input. Ensure all connections are secure and protected from moisture.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

No active controls on speakers. All control via connected amplifier/receiver.

Speaker Terminals: Heavy-duty binding posts accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (single or dual).

Mounting Bracket: Allows 180° rotation and tilt adjustment. Locking knob secures position.

Amplifier Requirements: Stereo or multi-channel amplifier with 10-100 watts per channel at 4-8 ohms.

Connecting to Audio Sources

Connect to stereo receiver, amplifier, or multi-zone audio system.

  1. Turn off amplifier before connecting.
  2. Run speaker wire: Use outdoor-rated 16-gauge or thicker wire.
  3. Strip wire ends: 1/2 inch (12mm) of insulation.
  4. Connect to speaker: Loosen binding posts; insert wire; tighten securely.
  5. Connect to amplifier: Match polarity (+ to +, - to -).
  6. Secure connections: Protect connections from moisture with weatherproof tape or boxes.

Tip: For long wire runs (over 50 feet), use thicker wire (14-gauge or 12-gauge) to minimize power loss.

Operation and Sound Adjustment

Optimize sound for your outdoor space.

  1. Positioning: Angle speakers toward listening area; avoid pointing directly at hard surfaces.
  2. Height: Mount at ear level when seated (approx. 4-6 feet high).
  3. Spacing: Place speakers 8-20 feet apart for stereo imaging.
  4. Amplifier settings: Adjust bass/treble on amplifier if needed (Bose recommends flat settings).
  5. Volume: Start at low volume; increase gradually to desired level.
  6. Multi-room systems: Configure as Zone 2 or outdoor zone on compatible receivers.

WARNING! Do not cover speaker grilles. Ensure proper ventilation around speakers.

Weather Resistance & Care

Designed for outdoor use but requires proper maintenance.

Cleaning: Use soft cloth with mild soap and water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water.

Winter Care: Speakers can withstand freezing temperatures. Ensure connections remain dry.

Grille Maintenance: Rust-proof but may show weathering over time. Can be rinsed gently.

Storage: If removing for extended periods, store in dry location.

CAUTION! Do not submerge speakers. While weather-resistant, they are not waterproof for prolonged submersion.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation. Articulated Array is a registered trademark of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersAmplifier off/connectionsCheck amplifier power; verify speaker wire connections; ensure proper polarity.
Distorted soundOverdriven amplifierReduce volume on amplifier; check amplifier power rating.
One speaker not workingWire/connection issueCheck wire continuity; ensure secure connections at both ends.
Poor sound qualityPositioning/wire gaugeReposition speakers; check wire gauge (use thicker wire for long runs).
Hum or buzzGround loop/interferenceEnsure proper grounding; separate speaker wires from power cables.
Weather damageExposure to elementsCheck for water intrusion; ensure connections are weather-protected.

Reset: Check amplifier settings; reset amplifier to factory defaults if needed.

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

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