Bose F1 Powered Subwoofer

Bose F1 Powered Subwoofer

The Bose F1 Subwoofer is a self-powered bass module designed to partner the F1 Model 812 flexible array loudspeaker, while also working as a compact low-frequency extension for other portable systems. Two high-excursion woofers and 1,000 watts of amplification are housed in a wood cabinet that also contains an integrated stand for the matching top speaker, removing the need for a separate pole or tripod in an F1 system.

Key features

• 1,000 W amplification: built-in power for the twin woofer array, rated by Bose as system power.
• Twin 10-inch drivers: two high-excursion woofers in a compact enclosure for strong low-frequency output.
• 130 dB peak output: maximum SPL rated at 130 dB SPL peak at one metre.
• Integrated speaker stand: built-in bracket raises and lowers to mount the F1 Model 812 directly on the subwoofer.
• Line output EQ: switchable through or high-pass output helps set the crossover relationship with a main loudspeaker.
• Polarity switch: normal and reverse settings help correct low-frequency overlap with the top speaker.

Low-frequency performance

Bose rates frequency response at 40 Hz to 250 Hz at -3 dB and frequency range at 38 Hz to 250 Hz at -10 dB. Dispersion is omnidirectional, as expected at bass frequencies. The internal crossover is a 40 to 100 Hz Butterworth band-pass arrangement, and the line output applies a 100 Hz fourth-order Butterworth high-pass filter when the HPF setting is selected. Distortion at rated power is specified at a maximum of 0.1 percent from 30 Hz to 15 kHz, and a dynamic limiter protects the system at high levels.

Connections and controls

Two input channels accept line-level signals through XLR and quarter-inch combo connectors, and balanced XLR line outputs pass the signal on to a powered loudspeaker or an additional subwoofer. Rear controls cover volume, polarity, line output EQ, front LED function and power. Indicators show power or fault status, limiting, front LED status and input signal. Because the volume control affects the subwoofer output rather than the through signal path in normal use, system balance can be adjusted at the subwoofer without changing the level sent onward.

Cabinet and transport

The enclosure is wood with high-impact composite end caps and a powder-coated perforated steel grille. Dimensions are 688 x 410 x 449 mm and net weight is 24.9 kg. Handles are positioned to make the cabinet manageable for one person over short distances. The integrated stand includes cable channels, so power and signal leads for the top speaker can be routed neatly rather than hanging down the front of the stack. Power is universal, rated at 100 to 240 V and 50/60 Hz through an IEC inlet.

System use

Bose recommends one subwoofer per F1 Model 812, although additional units can be added where more low-frequency level is required. The same controls also make the F1 Subwoofer usable with other compact tops: set the line output to high-pass so the main speaker is not asked to reproduce the lowest frequencies, adjust polarity for the smoothest blend at the listening position, and set volume to taste.

Compact, powered and designed around a built-in stand system, the F1 Subwoofer adds the low-frequency foundation that small portable loudspeakers cannot produce on their own.