QuestionQUESTION: Do you have info on age, purpose, of Bose model 901, serial #133637 speakers. They look old,are on a footed stand and are shaped as if they could snuggle into a corner, being they are not rectangular in shape looking down on them. They are covered in fabric front and back and sides, all the way around.
We inherited records so set about setting up a unit to play them. Found these speakers in the attic but they do not sound good. Are they meant for another purpose other than being the only 2 speakers to listen to records?
Thankyou very much.
Bose 901's
ANSWER: San,
I am familiar with these and yes, they are for stereo usage. The 901's were the cornerstone of Bose beggining in the 60's. They were considered high-end and were quite pricey. The reason they don't sound very good is they are supposed to be used in conjunction with a Bose active equalizer and there may info. regarding that near the serial number. I'm attaching a pic of a pair to make sure I've got the right ones. If you can score an equalizer you may a nice antique setup on your hands. Here is a breakdown of their history:
Series I----1968 to 1973, acoustic suspension (sealed cabinet), drivers use 4 bolts each to hold them in place
Series II---1973 to 1976, acoustic suspension, improved high frequency response. Drivers use 4 bolts.
Series III--1976 to 1978, Acoustic Matrix (ported cabinet--takes less amplifier power to drive to the same volume level) Drivers use 3 bolts.
Series IV--1978 to 1983, Acoustic Matrix, improved high frequency response. Drivers use 3 bolts.
Series V---1983 to 1987, Acoustic Matrix, better material used for the speaker drivers. Drivers use 3 bolts.
Series VI--1988 to present, Acoustic Matrix, Drivers use 3 bolts.
Kyle
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: We have a Sony receiver/equalizer. With this one the Bose 901's didn't sound good so we switched to Sancui speakers. To make the Bose speakers sound as good as they should we need to buy an old Bose equalizer? It is the brand, Bose that makes it work better? Or is it a specific equalizer that bose made?
Thanks so much.
AnswerAccording to Bose, you should never use conventional equalizers. It would result in serious sound degredation, not to mention possible damage to the speakers. Check Ebay, they are very available and I personally would suggest using the original equipment for the original sound.
